Entries open for WorkSafe Tradies Challenge

TRADIES from across Victoria will be swapping their tools for surfboards in less than a month to compete in the annual WorkSafe Tradies Challenge at Jan Juc.

Entries are now being accepted to the event, which is open to workers in all trades such as carpenters, painters, builders, plumbers, electricians, surfboard shapers and more.

It will feature three divisions of male and female surfers including open, over 35 and a pairs event.

For the second straight year, entries will be limited to tradies from regions that are not subject to COVID-19 lockdowns.

WorkSafe executive director of external affairs Sam Jenkin said the event was a reminder of why it’s important for workers to stay safe on the job, so they could return to their families and favourite hobbies.

“Whether it’s catching a wave on the weekend or having a family day at the beach, we want workers coming home safely so they can get back to the things they love doing – and that’s what the event highlight,” Jenkin said.

More than $3,000 in prizes will be given away from event partners Fagg’s Mitre 10 and Belmont Timber, WorkSafe Victoria and 4Pines Torquay.

“We are stoked to welcome back the WorkSafe Tradies Challenge to Jan Juc,” Surfing Victoria chief executive officer Adam Robertson said.

“Coming off another tough year for everyone, this will be a great way to reconnect and have a fun day of waves with mates.”

Surfing Victoria will be adhere to state directions in relation to the COVID-19 pandemic and will make changes to the event to ensure compliance.

Restrictions include:

• Competitors are to arrive for their heat 20 minutes before it begins and leave the contest zone no more than 40 minutes after their heatAll non-essential spectators are not permitted in the contest zone (boardwalk area)
• Rash vests will be washed after every heat, and
• Competitors and essential spectators (eg. parents or guardians) must check in via a QR code.

The WorkSafe Tradies’ Surf Challenge will be held on November 13.

For more information, head to the Surfing Victoria website.