New wave breaks for SOUL surfers

THE Southern Ocean Union of Longboarders (SOUL) will celebrate its 15th year since formation in 2004.

It has been part of the local surf and beach scene since, and runs monthly comps from February until November each year.

SOUL recently held its AGM and formed a new committee and elected a new president.

For the last three years, Life Member Paul Fletcher has led the club as president.

The SOUL longboard committee acknowledged Paul recently during their AGM. Paul was a diligent president and the club sincerely thanks him and the committee for their efforts over the years.

This year there has been some changes for SOUL with long time committee member, and Life Member Andy Brown taking over as club president. Andy has had a lot of experience in leadership having run his own local business and been a major stakeholder in seeing the development and improvement of longboard surfing in the community.

Chad McLauchlan will step up this year and take on both the secretary and the vice president role with an eye on the future with the club.

David Gibson will continue in his role as treasurer. Contest Director will be long time member, ex president and Life Member Brian Tucker.

Other committee positions will be filled by Simon Thorne, Simon Johnston, John Mercer and Tim Edwards.

SOUL is kicking off its competition season on February 9 at Ocean Grove Main Beach.

SOUL has members from beginners, to the experienced and has always had a family focus. Over the last few years, SOUL has had a real focus on developing their juniors and women’s division. Since its inception in 2004 the club has been successful, having had three national champions, multiple state champions and more importantly providing a fun, family friendly club that celebrates traditional and progressive longboarding.

SOUL will also be holding on the following weekend, February 16, The Interstate Longboard Challenge (ILC).

This will be the 8th running of this event between SOUL and the Maladjusted Longboard Club from South Australia. Each club takes it in turn to hold the event which is aimed at broadening the comradery and friendship between the clubs.

SOUL has been successful in signing some new sponsors as well as welcoming back others who have provided support for the club for some time.

Speakys Surf and Skate Geelong, Bakers Delight Market Place Ocean Grove (new sponsor – next to woollies), Zebra Bar and Bistro Ocean Grove, Benno’s Meating Place Barwon Heads.

This season for the first two club competitions SOUL is providing a free U/16 junior expression session. Surfers in the expression session heats do not need to be members and can surf mini mal, longboard, or any board they wish and can be assisted by a parent.

The U/16 competitors will receive a free sausage and drink.

The club will also continue its Micro Grom sessions (with parent assist) and also receive a sausage and drink.

If you are wishing to sign up with SOUL for 2019, memberships are available through their Facebook page: Single – $50, Family (2) – $70 (additional members $5). Members receive a SOUL t-shirt, sticker, and insurance.

Contact president Andrew Brown 0419 995 977 or secretary Chad McLauchlan 0418 108 211.