Bells to fire for Hells Djarrak event

ANTICIPATION is reaching fever pitch for this weekend’s Hells Djarrak multi-club invitational surfing event as good conditions beckon for the Surf Coast.

More than 60 of the state’s best surfers will take to the water at Bells Beach/Djarrak tomorrow (Saturday, August 31) for a chance at securing the illustrious Bunjil trophy.

The winning trophy was carved by Surf Coast artist Raph Buttonshaw and depicts the creator spirit, the eagle Bunjil, who is the protector of Bells Beach/Djarrak.

Surfers set to feature in the event include World Qualifying Series surfers Xavier Huxtable and Ellie Harrison from Torquay, Jan Juc Boardriders club champions Cooper Downes and Carly Shanahan and 13th Beach’s Charlie Mahoney and Lizzie Madeley.

Other clubs to have surfers invited into the event include Peninsula Surfriders, Phillip Island, Otway Boardriders and Point Lonsdale.

At the time of publication, Swellnet was predicting waves in the three-foot to five-foot range, with strong offshore winds.

Torquay Boardriders president Tully Wylie said surfing the pumping waves at Bells Beach was a very exciting prospect for all competitors.

“With some swell on the way there’s definitely some froth building around the town. To get the opportunity to surf Bells with three others is very special and doesn’t come around very often.

“Outside of the Rip Curl Pro bell, the Bunjil must be one of the most beautiful and prestigious trophies in Australia. Everyone will be giving there all to take Bunjil home.”

The Hells Djarrak open champion will take home $1,000 and the prestigious Bunjil trophy.

The women’s winner will also take $1,000 in cash, while the junior champion and overall boardriders club champions will claim $500.

Out of the water, the club will team up with Roxy and Quiksilver to host a series of fun events.

A live chat with former world champion Tom Carroll will take place tonight (Friday, August 30) at Bird Rock, and an after-party will be held tomorrow post-event featuring DJ Shimmy (former world tour surfer Dimity Stoyle).

For more information, head to Torquay Boardriders Club’s social media channels.