Local surfers shine at Byron Bay adaptive titles

LOCAL surfers have led the way at the Australian Para Surfing Titles in Byron Bay, with a global field competing across two major adaptive surfing events.

Mark ‘Mono’ Stewart and Joel Taylor claimed victories in their divisions, continuing their dominance on the national stage.

Both surfers are former world champions and leading advocates for inclusion and the development of adaptive surfing.

“I look forward to this event every year. It brings everyone together,” Stewart said.

“Having the international para event alongside the Australian Surfing Titles gives local athletes a chance to show the world what they’ve got before the international competition begins.”

Stewart and Taylor will now represent Australia at the 2026 ISA World Para Surfing Championships, with Taylor aiming to defend the world title he secured last year.

 

The Australian Pro Adaptive Surfing Championships were also held at Main Beach later in the week.

The event crowned 14 new champions and drew competitors from across the globe, with winners from Canada, England, France and Japan.

Among the Australian winners were Annie Goldsmith (prone assist), Lee Ferrier (prone assist), Michael Johnson (sit/waveski), Kirk Watson (blind/no vision), Brendon Robson (open prone), Finn Bank (blind/partial vision impaired) and Kai Colless.

An event spokesperson said the competition highlighted both elite performance and the sport’s growing international depth.

“From first-time competitors to world champions and double crown moments, this year delivered world-class performance, global depth, and undeniable momentum,” the spokesperson said.

“With athletes from across the globe pushing the limits of the sport, the pathway to Brisbane 2032 Paralympic inclusion is clearer and stronger than ever.

“This is more than a competition. This is the future of adaptive surfing.”