Region's top surfers surge

After a two-year absence from the surfing calendar, the Edith Cowan University Surf Challenge is set to return to Yallingup on October 27.

Managed by students from ECU’s South West campus, the contest will showcase some of the region’s brightest surfing stars competing in three short board divisions: open men’s, open women’s and junior boys.

Past winners have included Mikaela Green, Shaun Green, Zac Ogram, Tom Innes, Laura Macaulay and Paul Paterson.

Event director Ashleigh Steward said they had received advice from Surfing WA and the City of Busselton over the fine points of running a surfing event and risk management protocols.

“It’s been a great experience, although a little stressful from time to time,” she said.

Contest director Tom Pearsall said the group also had workshops on judging techniques used by Surfing Australia.

“The surf science students are really looking forward to putting theory into practice on the big day,” he said.

The event will also feature music on the lawn, with a sausage sizzle and an art display on hand to keep people entertained.

ECU surf science co-ordinator Rob Holt acknowledged the generous support from the local community, including a number of local sponsors.

To enter the competition, visit www.ecu.edu.au/faculties/regionalprofessional-studies/communityactivity/ecu-surf-challenge. Judges at the Edith Cowan University Surf Challenge.