Adaptive surf championships return to Byron Bay

BYRON Bay will once again host the BrightSky Australian Pro Adaptive Surf Championships, with the world’s best adaptive surfers set to compete from March 23 to March 30, 2025.

The event, part of the Association of Adaptive Surfing Professionals (AASP) World Tour, has grown into a premier competition, showcasing the skill and determination of athletes living with disabilities.

It is also a major community event, featuring surf clinics, cultural ceremonies, and public engagement.

The championships return following a highly successful 2024 edition, with BrightSky as the naming rights partner and Forward Ability Support as the presenting partner.

Chief executive Melissa Decker said the competition was about more than just surfing.

“We are proud to partner with and sponsor the Australian Pro Adaptive Surfing Championships, championing inclusivity and empowering athletes to showcase their strength, resilience and passion for the sport,” she said.

The event is managed by six-time world champion and adaptive surfing legend Mark “Mono” Stewart, who said the support of BrightSky and Forward Ability Support would help the competition continue to grow.

“The Australian Pro Adaptive Surfing Championships committee are stoked to partner with BrightSky and Forward Ability Support for 2025,” he said.

“We welcome their support and commitment to ensuring the growth of this sport and couldn’t think of better partners to support the event and the competing athletes.”

Although competition is the centrepiece, organisers say the week will also focus on fostering inclusivity, increasing visibility for adaptive athletes, and strengthening community support for accessible sports.