Survey to determine the value of surfing

THE Australian National University (ANU) is encouraging surfers to give their two cents’ worth to the first nationwide survey that addresses the economic and wellbeing impacts of surfing.

The ANU survey is open to adults living in Australia who have surfed at least once in the past 12 months and is intended to reveal how valuable surfing is to society through a series of livability questions.

According to ANU project lead Dr Ana Manero, Australians are naturally drawn to the coast and its waves, resulting in more than one million people becoming active surfers.

 

“Surfing is more than just a sport – it’s a lifestyle,” Dr Manero said.

“We know it’s valuable to Australia, but we’re trying to paint the clearest picture so far of just how important it is.

“It’s about making sure policymakers have all the information they need to make informed decisions about surf breaks… this is crucial to manage the impacts of erosion and other coastal pressures.”

She said the survey was not only about putting a monetary value on surfing, but also aimed to understand the sport’s less tangible benefits including its impact on mental health and wellbeing.

“When you come back from your surf, you feel a better person.

“Its effect on your mental health, the physical exercise, the connection with your family, with your friends and with other members of the community – it’s immensely valuable.

“If our waves were lost, all of that would be gone.

“Surfing is Australia’s second-most popular water sport but it’s still massively under-researched and that’s why we want to hear from as many surfers as possible through this survey.”

The survey takes less than 10 minutes to complete and responses are de-identified.

For entering, survey-takers also have the chance to win a Rip Curl wetsuit of their choice, a surfboard of their choice and two $250 Visa gift cards.

To have your say, head to anu.edu.au/news/all-news/surfers’-paradise