Surfing

Australian Indigenous Surfing Titles, opens in a new tab, (accessed 13 August 2025). A gathering of Indigenous Surfers from across the country on the traditional land of the Wadawurrung people at Bells Beach/Djarrk on Victoria’s Surf Coast. The event, which began in 2012, includes divisions of Open Men, Open Women, Junior Boys, Junior Women, Masters (Over 35s), Grand Kahunas (Over 50s), Longboard Men, and Longboard Women.

Irukandjis, opens in a new tab, Surfing Australia, (accessed 19 August 2025). The Irukandjis name was generously gifted to Surfing Australia by the local Yirrganydji people of North Queensland, driven by the efforts of Indigenous athlete and former World Tour surfer, Soli Bailey. Our namesake and tagline is ‘The Irukandjis: Deadly in the Water’, after the Irukandji jellyfish – an extremely venomous species of jellyfish that inhabit Australian marine waters. Australian representatives across all surfing genres compete under The Irukandjis national identity and united colours at international events.

New South Wales

Surfest Indigenous Classic, opens in a new tab, (accessed 19 Ausut 2025). Held annually, the Indigenous Classic has been an integral part of Surfest for over 25 years. It has progressed from its beginnings as “The Kooris V The Cops” to now one of the most prestigious Indigenous surfing events in Australia. Featuring Open Men, Open Women, Pro Junior Men, Pro Junior Women and an Open Masters division the event has non elimination rounds that allows surfers a second chance format similar to the WSL world tour events. Organisers are proud that the divisions have equal prize money for men and women.

Victoria

Victorian Indigenous Surfing Program, opens in a new tab, Surfing Victoria, (accessed 19 August 2025). Founded in 1998, this is one of the longest running Indigenous engagement programs in the country. The program uses Surfing as a way to connect Indigenous Victorians with the ocean whilst learning new skills, water safety knowledge and healthy habits. Strong Aboriginal community leadership and engagement in culturally safe and engaging environments that are inclusive, respectful and flexible are they core values of the program to ensure its success.