Koori Titles decided at Urquharts Bluff

MORE than 90 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people from across the state took to the water in the Woorrangalook Victorian Koori Surf Titles.

Last weekend’s event at Urquhart Bluff saw representation from Geelong, Bellarine Peninsula, Surf Coast, Phillip Island, Ballarat, Bendigo, Shepparton, Yarra Valley, Metropolitan Melbourne, East Gippsland, Portland and Hamilton.

Wadawurrung Elder Corrinna Eccles opened the event with a cleansing traditional smoking and mixing of the waters, paving the way for competition to begin.

The sibling duo of Charlie and Delilah Chishom (Torquay) reigned supreme in the water, winning the Open Men’s and Women’s divisions respectively.

Delilah has now gone back-to-back champion after claiming her inaugural title in 2025, whilst Charlie claimed his first event Indigenous State Title.

“The event is so special, it’s about coming together and supporting and connecting with each other on Wadawurrung Country,” Charlie said.

“Seeing all the kids be stoked catching waves and sharing the line up with everyone is the best, it has the best energy.”

The Dhelk Dja Encouragement Awards of a surfboard were presented to Mundarra Edwards (Highton) and Amali Walker (Leopold).