Local craftsmen carve up new trophy

JAN JUC trophy and surfboard craftsman Jeff Sweeney has unveiled a wooden replica of one of the late Shaun Brook’s surfboards as this year’s Bells Beach 50 Year Storm trophy.

Earlier this month, Mr Sweeney put the finishing touches on the hand shaped masterpiece in readiness for when the Bells Beach 50 Year Storm surfing event gets its start date this winter.

The Bells Beach 50 Year Storm surfing event brings together the best surfers from across the country in the biggest and best waves of the winter to raise awareness of mental health.

The one-metre-high trophy was cut out of a blackwood blank and rare Otway timber known as Satin Box, and mounted to a sandstone rock from the local region for extra appeal.

Local surfboard engineer Leigh Giddens assisted with the creation and developed a file of measurements to shape the trophy to mimic all the edges and shapes of Shaun’s surfboard board.

Mr Sweeney, who presently makes the trophies for the Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach, hoped the trophy would become a sacred momento for event winners in the years to come.

“It was a complete honour to make it.

“Rod Brooks, Shaun’s father asked me do it.

“Rod made the first Bells trophy and has been involved in the trophy making department for a long time, so it was a privilege when he called.

“I knew Shaun really well and surfed with him a lot, so to do this in his honour was really special.”

After finishing as a finalist in the inaugural 2021 Bells Beach 50 Year Storm event, Mr Sweeney quipped that he wouldn’t mind taking home the masterpiece in this year’s competition.

“I can’t wait for this year’s event, it’s always a good day.

“Funnily enough, Liz, my wife said I should win it because she really likes it!

“We’d love it on the mantle piece, I’d certainly feel alright about that.”

The waiting period is presently under way and extends until July 31.