Ashleigh Wall gets the top chair at Surfing Victoria

SURFING Victoria announced the appointment of Ashleigh Wall as the new chair of its board last week.

Ms Wall, who took over from the outgoing Paul Robson, is the first female chair of Surfing Victoria.

Joining the board in 2014, Ms Wall is an experienced corporate lawyer, passionate sportsperson and advocate for corporate social responsibility within the state.

Growing up in Barwon Heads, Ms Wall began surfing as a teenager and was an active member of the 13th Beach Boardriders club, where she was a junior and open female champion.

Key priorities for Surfing Victoria under Ms Wall’s leadership will be to continue to work with key stakeholders to increase participation in all levels of surfing and promote gender equality through such things as its female stand up paddle boarding program, Coasting.

“Surfing already plays a large role in the economy through tourism and businesses, and we will work with stakeholders to create greater value for our state,” she said.

“I am really proud about the way in which we reach to all members of the community and believe surfing can play a key role in enriching people’s lives as a lifestyle, recreational or sporting pursuit.”

“We have introduced some fantastic programs which are working to increase participation and a level playing field for women and girls, and indigenous Australians, in all areas of the sport and this will continue to be a focus.

“I am honoured to be stepping into the role at such an important time in Surfing Victoria’s growth, and look forward to working with the Board and our CEO, to build on our strong foundations as a progressive, inclusive and leading sporting organisation.

“On behalf of the board, I would like to thank our outgoing chair Paul Robson who through his leadership has continued Surfing Victoria’s role as a leading sporting organisation. Paul will continue to be an instrumental member of our board. ”

Surfing Victoria chief executive officer Adam Robertson is looking forward to having Ms Wall’s experience leading the organisation.

“We are stoked to have Ash elected as Chair of the Surfing Victoria Board,” he said.

“She has been an invaluable contributor in her role as board member over the past four years and has the experience to take Surfing Victoria to the next level as chair.

“I look forward to working with Ash into the future on some new exciting projects.”