Enjoy the Pro at a Live Site

Fans who are unable to make it to Bells Beach for the 2018 Rip Curl Pro can still watch the world’s best surfers in action, at a range of venues across Torquay and the Surf Coast.

Almost 50 venues will serve as Rip Curl Pro Live Sites, streaming coverage from the breaks.

The second leg of the World Surf League Tour will run from March 28 to April 8, and is in its 57th year.

Surf Coast Shire councillor Martin Duke urged people to soak up the atmosphere of the event as it transforms Torquay and Jan Juc.

“It’s always such a special time of the year, with the influx of visitors and the eyes of the surfing world upon us,” Cr Duke said.

“This year promises to be even bigger, as the farewell event for fan favourite and three-time world champ Mick Fanning.

“This great range of big screen live sites ensures people can be close to the action, while at the same time importantly supporting local businesses.”

Participating cafes, restaurants, hotels, stores and other venues across Torquay, Jan Juc, Anglesea, Lorne, Winchelsea and Aireys Inlet will be identified by Rip Curl Pro Live Site banners.

“Look out for them and drop in and support them while admiring the world’s best surfers in the world’s longest-running professional surfing event,” Cr Duke said.

See following page for live sites around the region.

Meanwhile, Surf Coast Shire hosted a formal launch of the Rip Curl Pro with a special Welcome To Country for competitors and World Surfing League officials on the sand at Bells Beach on March 27.

The event celebrated greats of past eras and young guns of today.

“In that magnificent setting it will provide an important ceremonial start to this great event,” Cr Duke said.

Formalities included presentation of Rising Star Awards, named in honour of Gail Couper and Wayne Lynch, to the top three under-18 surfers in the Surf Coast region.