Huxtable to lead local surf talent

JAN JUC surfer Xavier Huxtable is confident he has what it takes to go back-to-back at the Phillip Island Pro.

The 23-year-old dominated the event in 2025, putting on a powerful display to overcome fellow Jan Juc surfer Tully Wylie.

He comes into this year’s World Surf League (WSL) Qualifying Series decider in seventh on the Australia/Oceania rankings.

A top result would likely catapult him into the top three and inch him closer to his dream of surfing full-time on the Championship Tour.

Huxtable said he was eager to put on a top display in front of his fellow Victorians.

“I’m super excited to get back in the rashie and surf some heats at Phillip Island,” Huxtable said.

“It’d be great to get a good result down here and carry the momentum into Newcastle and hopefully give it a red-hot crack at qualifying.

“It’s awesome getting to compete against my mates down here as well. Growing up together you always chat about getting into a Final together and it was so special getting to share that the last two times with Tully here in Phillip Island. Hopefully we can share it again.”

 

The elite seven-day event has attracted more than 250 competitors from across the Asia Pacific region, with competitors looking to book themselves a spot on the 2026/27 WSL Challenger Series.

Wylie is among the local brigade to be throwing on the jersey, alongside Isaiah Norling (Barwon Heads), Tully Wylie (Jan Juc), Jack Bassett (Barwon Heads), Joel Kerr (Anglesea) and Willis Droomer (Torquay).|

WSL Asia-Pacific president Andrew Stark said the surfing body was thrilled to be back at “an iconic surf location” such as Phillip Island.

“With the WSL Phillip Island Pro Qualifying Series and Pro Junior event, Victoria continues to play a leading role in the development of the sport, hosting multiple WSL events annually; from QS and Pro Junior competition through to the Longboard Tour and the historic Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach.”

Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulous is excited to see the next generation of surfing talent head to Victoria.

“Events like the Phillip Island Pro take some of our best breaks to audiences around the world and bring visitors to the Bass Coast region, filling hotels, cafes and restaurants,” he said.

The Phillip Island Pro began yesterday (Thursday, 26 February) and runs until Wednesday, 4 March.

For live scores and more information, head to worldsurfleague.com