Local surfers compete at Gold Coast Open

TORQUAY surfer Ben Considine has surfed to success at the Gold Coast Open, finishing in the semifinals of the world qualifying series event.

Considine gathered vital tour ranking points at Burleigh Heads last weekend, putting himself in a strong position to try requalify for the 2025 World Longboard Tour.

The 27-year-old was awarded a wildcard onto the world tour in 2024 and will be hoping to get a similar opportunity this year.

Point Lonsdale athlete Bea Conroy finished in the semifinals of the women’s competition, while Torquay’s Matthew Shay also competed.

On the shortboard side of the event, Jan Juc surfer Xavier Huxtable was the top performer, making it through to the Round of 16.

Local athletes Josh Van Niekerk, Willis Droomer, Tully Wylie made the Round of 64, while Isaiah Norling was eliminated in the first round.

Reigning Jan Juc Boardriders open women’s champion Carly Shanahan made the Round of 16 in the women’s competition.