Surf's Up!

Surfing is synonymous with Australia. Around the world, the classic Australian stereo-type is a bleached-blonde, sun-tanned surf-bum. Whilst this might be a slight exaggeration, surfing is considered the national sport, and with around 85% of Australians living within 50km of the coast, it is a very popular and accessible pastime for many. Surfing also forms part of the economic and social fabric of many coastal communities around Australia, perhaps more so than in any other country in the world. Australia’s shores are home to some world famous surf breaks, as well as producing some of the best surfers in the world. The crystal-clear waters, white sands beaches and temperate weather, also help to attract the hundreds of thousands of international backpackers and travellers who flock to Australia each year to experience surfing and surf culture downunder.

History

Surfing was introduced to Australia in the early twentieth century from Hawaii. The sport exploded in popularity in the 1950’s and 1960’s as surf boards became lighter, smaller and cheaper. Surfing quickly turned from an obscure pastime to an Australian obsession, and helped to shape the fabric of many coastal communities. Small rural towns such as Byron Bay, Noosa and Torquay, built up quickly around pristine surf breaks, and tourism quickly followed. Today surfing in Australia is enjoyed by young and old, learners and experienced, men, women and children from all walks of life.

Swansea Channel By suburbanbloke

Australia’s border is one long coast line, with numerous surf breaks and surfing beaches tucked away in its shores. It is possible to surf in most Australian states, especially in New South Wales, Queensland, Western Australia and Victoria. Generally speaking, the top half of the Country is a no-go zone for surfing due to the nasties that live in the ocean, but from the Sunshine Coast in Qld, right around the bottom half of the country to the Perth area on the West Coast, you will find surf break after surf break.

Iconic Australian surf areas include Bells Beach in Victoria, the Gold Coast in Queensland, Margaret River in Western Australia, and Bondi Beach in Sydney, NSW. Unsurprisingly, these places are steeped in surf culture and attract many tourists each year. Australia has national surfing reserves set up and protected by the government. This ensures that some of Australia’s best surfing beaches are accessible to surfers and anyone else who wants to enjoy them, and that they are protected for years to come. Some of these protected surf breaks include Angourie, Crescent Head, Lennox Head and North Narrabeen in NSW, and Bells Beach in Victoria. While surfing provides the perfect way to cool off during the hot summer months, the temperate Australian climate enables surfers to enjoy the sport year round.

Surf School - By robertpaulyoung

Australia has an abundance of easy-to-reach first-class waves for all surfing abilities. Part of the beauty of surfing in Australia is its accessibility – with a board and some waves you’re all set. If you don’t own your own board, it is usually possible to hire one from a local surf shop, and they should be able to give you tips about surf in the area. However, tempting as it is for beginners to rush into the water and catch a wave, it is important to learn about surf conditions and surfing etiquette before taking the plunge. Learning to surf is extremely exciting and rewarding, and at times frustrating!

There are numerous surf schools throughout Australia, most of which will provide all the equipment, as well as the support and enthusiasm you need to get you surfing. Surf schools know the best learner surf spots in their local area and will have a thorough understanding of the current surf conditions, so they provide the ideal platform for the novice surfer. You can also combine learning to surf with sightseeing on an organised learn to surf tour which takes in several surf spots over a number of days – a popular route is Sydney to Byron Bay. Surf conditions change frequently, so it is important to understand how these factors can affect the surf, for your safety.

Many popular Australian beaches are patrolled with lifeguards who can assist with any surf safety concerns and guide you with flags and signs. It is also important to respect other surfers in the water, especially in crowded surf breaks where accidents can happen if you are not vigilant and have an understanding of who has the right of way. Other important surf safety factors to remember include wearing sunscreen and a protective rash vest, and try to avoid the mid-day sun.

Noosa Surf - By m.maddo

The massive rise in popularity in surfing in Australia within the last 50 years has led to a booming surf industry. Around the country, local surf clubs run competitions and social events to bring the community together. The rise in popularity of surfing in Australia has also brought about problems, with overcrowded surf spots, and territorial behaviour.

This has driven new innovative and creative ideas in the surfing world, and stretched the boundaries of surfing further. People are continually searching for new waves and undiscovered, un-crowded breaks. When the surf’s too big, advanced surfers get dragged in to the surf with the help of jet-skis, and when the surf’s too small, you can catch a wave with a stand-up paddle board! People have even started surfing further out to sea on offshore reef breaks, miles from land.

If you look past all the hype, the fashion and the competition, it is easy to see that the real appeal of surfing for millions of Australians and surf travellers is the relaxed, healthy beach lifestyle it brings, and the opportunity to connect with nature one-on-one.