The Australian Longboard Titles have concluded with champions crowned across all Master divisions, bringing a thrilling end to the event at Cabarita Beach on the Tweed yesterday.
Surfing Australia Contest Director Glen Elliott hailed the competition as an outstanding success.
‘It has been a superb week and a true celebration of Australian longboard surfing,’ said Mr Elliott. ‘The camaraderie and the strong Aussie spirit shared by longboarders from across the country have been on full display.’
With solid surf persisting, athletes were tested by challenging conditions on Finals day. ‘The swell held steady from yesterday, with fairly strong winds keeping the surf pulsing throughout the day. Many of the Masters surfers are absolutely exhausted,’ said Mr Elliott.
Ten Australian Longboard Champions were crowned this afternoon, including Jason Livingston (North Curl Curl, NSW), who won the Over 50 and Over 55 Men’s divisions.
‘It was really tough out there—you duck dive a wave and get pushed back 20 metres. I did three laps!’ said Mr Livingston.
‘The competition was fierce, and the boys really pushed me all the way. I didn’t get the highest scoring wave of the heat, so I knew I had to fight hard.
‘The Tweed Coast delivered with great waves, and going to Surfing Australia’s High Performance Centre was great,’ he said.
Kate Perry (Yandina Creek, QLD) claimed the Australian Title in the Over 60 Women’s division after also competing in the Over 50s, where she placed second.
Fantastic turnout
‘It’s always fun here,’ said Ms Perry. ‘You meet so many great people from all over Australia, surfers who are just as passionate about the sport as you are. I’ve been chasing an Australian Title for a while, so this win is special. 2024 has seen a fantastic turnout at the Aussies.’
Tony Abood (Kingscliff, NSW) took home the Australian Longboard Title for Over 65 Men.
‘I was fortunate to get off to a good start. I did the run-around, got hammered on the way back out, but managed to snag a couple more waves. I think I’ll sleep well tonight,’ Mr Abood said.
‘Whether you come first or last, everyone’s happy to be here. To win this and share it with close friends, it’s something really special.’
This year’s Wayne Deane Spirit of Longboarding Award, presented to the person who embodies the true spirit of the sport, was awarded to Matt Inman from WA. Commended as the ‘super caddy’ Inman ran boards for nearly every surfer, regardless of state.
The Overall State Champion was New South Wales.
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