Surf star rides wave of success

Ten years after first paddling out into the water to try surfing, Yallingup’s Phoebe McGregor has been awarded the Rising Sports Star award for August.

The Year 11 Margaret River Senior High School student said she first decided to try surfing after seeing her parents and family friends’ love for the sport.

“I love the ocean, I try to get in the water every day,” she said. “It’s so refreshing and sets you up for a good day.”

Phoebe said her favourite place to surf was at Yallingup and her preferred break was Shallows.

In 2015, Phoebe was part of the MRSHS team which won the State Final for the SunSmart WA School Surfing Titles.

Earlier this year Phoebe also won the under-18 junior girls division in the World Surfaris WA Junior Surfing Titles, which will see her travel to Phillip Island in Victoria next month.

Phoebe said she enjoyed competing both individually and in a team.

“In the schools division we share the joy when we win and it’s also a really great achievement when I win,” she said.

She said she was grateful for the recognition received with her Rising Sports Star award, although she didn’t know who had nominated her.

“It makes me feel like people believe in me and I have some backing somewhere,” she said.

Phoebe thanked whoever it was who had nominated her, as well as the Busselton Freight Service.

“The money I was awarded will go towards a new surfboard,” she said.

Phoebe’s mum Sally said she was extremely proud of her daughter being recognised for her hard work.

“She works really hard and being in Year 11 combining sport and school has been a real juggle but she deserves a pat on the back,” she said.