Local surf brands secure the gold at SBIA Awards

TWO Torquay-born surf brands have cleaned up at this year’s Australian Surf & Boardsports Industry Association (SBIA) Awards in Sydney.

Rip Curl won an impressive seven industry awards, while Strapper Surf secured their third Australian Independent Retailer of the Year – Multi Store title at last week’s national ceremony.

Rip Curl took home the honours for Ladies Marketing Campaign of Year, Sales and Customer Service Office of the Year, Wetsuit of the Year, Swimwear Brand of the Year, Boardshort Brand of the Year, Shop Fit Out of the Year and Large Brand of the Year.

Rip Curl Australia/New Zealand brand and marketing manager Angus Forrest said the team were ecstatic with the plethora of awards.

“There is such a big team who put in everything to what we do here at Rip Curl.

“It’s so nice to have a bit of recognition for our work.

“Ultimately, it’s an exciting time to be in the surf industry and we are very fortunate to work in the space and for a great company in Rip Curl.”

Strapper Surf owner and surfboard shaper Michael Di Sciascio said he was stoked his staff were recognised for their hard work.

“We are just delighted to win this award.

“We’ve been a finalist about 10 times, and this is our third time taking it out.

“It’s a really competitive space, so to maintain our standards and stay in the race for the title over a long period is super cool.

“It’s great for the team to get acknowledgement, they work really hard and it certainly hasn’t gone un-noticed.”

Local surf hardware brand Boardsox was also a finalist in the Surfing Accessory of the Year title and were in attendance for the awards.

For other divisional winners and results, head to sbia.com.au