Surfest Set to Make Waves on Global Stage in 2025

Newcastle is gearing up for a major boost in 2025 as Surfest returns to the international spotlight, having been elevated to one of the top 16 surfing competitions in the world. The iconic event will now form part of the World Surf League’s (WSL) Challenger Series, drawing more than 120 of the globe’s rising surfing stars to Merewether Beach from 1 to 8 June.

This prestigious upgrade follows strong backing from City of Newcastle, with Council recently throwing unanimous support behind a motion to advocate for the event’s global recognition. The competition will be broadcast worldwide, showcasing Newcastle to millions of viewers.

Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes highlighted Newcastle’s deep connection to the surfing world, noting the city’s nearly 40-year sponsorship of Surfest.

“Newcastle has a long history of supporting surfing, and the Challenger Series will provide significant economic, cultural, and tourism benefits to our region,” Cr Nelmes said. “The 2021 Rip Curl Newcastle Cup brought in an estimated $15 million, and we expect next year’s event to have an even greater impact.”

Surfest organiser Warren Smith announced that the 2025 event will kick off the Challenger Series, a fiercely competitive pathway for surfers aiming to qualify for the Championship Tour.

“The Challenger Series is a high-stakes platform where surfers either make it or break it,” Mr Smith said. “With the world’s best surfers vying for a spot on the 2026 Championship Tour, Merewether Beach will witness some of the most thrilling and high-risk surfing.”

Local surfing talent and world number 13, Ryan Callinan, said the Challenger Series offers an intense level of competition, motivating surfers to push their limits.

“The series is fierce, and having an event at home in Newcastle will give a huge advantage to local surfers like Jackson Baker and Philippa Anderson,” Callinan said. “It’s going to be an amazing experience.”

WSL APAC President Andrew Stark echoed the excitement surrounding Surfest’s return to the world stage, noting the importance of Newcastle in surfing’s rich history.

“This event has seen some of the biggest names in surfing, and its continued success speaks volumes about the passion of Newcastle’s surf community,” Mr Stark said.

Port of Newcastle CEO Craig Carmody added that the event aligns with the Port’s focus on diversity and inclusion, ensuring a level playing field for both men and women.

“We’re proud to support this iconic event, and raising it to Challenger Series status is a testament to the strength of surfing in Newcastle,” Mr Carmody said.

As Newcastle prepares to host the world’s best surfers in 2025, the city stands ready to ride the wave of international attention once more.