Rip Curl Pro delivers $8m boost for Surf Coast

THE 2026 Rip Curl Pro at Bells Beach has delivered on expectations, drawing strong crowds to the Surf Coast and providing a boost to the region’s economy and profile.

The world-class event showcased the coastline to a global audience, attracting an estimated 35,000 to 40,000 spectators, including a significant number of international visitors.

The Surf Coast Shire estimates the competition has injected more than $8 million into the local economy.

Mayor Libby Stapleton said the event continues to reinforce Torquay’s standing as Australia’s surfing capital.

 

“Surfing is a major part of Surf Coast’s modern culture,” she said. “From events and tourism to social connections, surfing touches many parts of our community.

“It reinforces why an event such as the Rip Curl Pro is so special – and the longest running professional surfing competition in the world.”

The broader Easter period also saw strong accommodation demand across the region, with businesses tapping into the influx of visitors and the global livestream audience.

 

Surfing Victoria chief executive Adam Robertson said the event had been a clear success.

“Surfing Victoria are thankful the patrons who came to see, support and be a part of the event, were considerate of each other, mindful of the valuable fauna and coastline and in general there to have a good time,” he said.

“The event remains of the highest value to the surfers on tour, and remains to be seen as such an iconic location for surfing and the World Surf League itself.”