Bell to ring on Australian Indigenous Surfing Titles

DJARRAK (Bells Beach) will play host to this weekend’s Australian Indigenous Surfing Titles, bringing together top surfers from across the country.

The event, which returns for the 12th consecutive year today (Friday, May 30) boasts Indigenous surfers from Western Australia, Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia.

Surfers will feature in a variety of divisions including Open Men and Women, Juniors, Masters, Over 50’s and Longboard.

Surf Coast Shire mayor Mike Bodsworth said the shire was rapt to have the event returning to Wadawurrung Country.

“Bells has deep significance for Wadawurrung Traditional Owners.

“It’s a wonderful opportunity for top First Nations surfers and spectators – including visitors from across Australia – to connect with Country at one of the world’s most iconic breaks.”

Surfing Victoria chief executive officer Adam Robertson said his organisation was proud to be hosting the event.

Now being in its 12th year, the event has become a one of the most looked forward to events on the Victorian and national surfing calendar.

“I am looking forward to seeing some of the best indigenous surfing talent from across the country take on the Bowl at Djarrak and wish all competitors best of luck.”

As an added bonus, both the Open Men and Women’s champions from the event will be granted a wildcard into the Australian Surf Championships later this year.

Multiple time Indigenous Open champion Russ Moloney said he was looking forward to returning to the region for the event.

“This is my favourite time of year, connecting with our Mobs, celebrating culture and surfing Bells. It doesn’t get any better than that!”

A Welcome to Country will be held this morning by Wadawurrung Traditional Owners to launch the event.

For live scores and a schedule for the event, head to australianindigenoussurfingtitles.com