Photo Surfing Australia
Monday, 23 March, saw 45-year-old paraplegic surfer from Lennox Head, Joel Taylor, win his third Aussie title at the Australian Para Surfing Titles.
Joel is the current ISA World Para Surfing Champion, Australian Para Surfer of the Year and took out the 2026 Buildcare Australian Para Surfing Titles at Main Beach, Byron Bay in fun, clean 2-3ft surf.
Local winner
‘So stoked to claim my third para surfing title and qualify for the 2026 ISA World Para Surfing Championship to defend my world title from last year! To share the win with my family and friends on the beach, where I grew up, makes it even better,’ Joel told The Echo.
Pushing him throughout the event was four times world champion, Kai Colless, who finished runner-up. Colless remains one of the most progressive and dynamic surfers on the circuit, with his performances continuing to attract attention following his viral 10-point ride at the 2025 ISA World Championships, where he placed second. The rivalry between Taylor and Colless reflects the increasing depth at the top level of the sport, with both athletes playing key roles in Australia’s international success as members of The Irukandjis.
‘I grew up and live just down the coast at Lennox Head so to have the Aussie titles locally is really special. I take a lot of pride in the chance to show off our beautiful region, our mind-blowing waves and amazing community to adaptive surfers from around Australia,’ Joel told The Echo.
Surfing for the Paralympics
The Australian titles are a key component of the official selection pathway for athletes aiming to qualify for The Irukandjis ahead of the 2026 ISA World Para Surfing Championships.
‘Para surfing is in an exciting place right now,’ said Joel.
‘The sport as a whole is growing fast and the level of surfing is progressing just as quickly. The goal is to harness this growth and build on it for the inclusion of surfing in the Paralympics for the very first time at the Brisbane 2032 games.’
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