Mattara Surf Classic Marks 63 Years This Weekend

18 October 2024

This weekend, Newcastle’s surfing community will gather at Bar Beach to celebrate 63 years of the Mattara Surfing Classic, an iconic event in both Australian and international surfing. Held on 19 and 20 October 2024, this event is one of the longest continuously running surf competitions globally, with its roots dating back to 1961.

Teza McKenna, president of Surfing Newcastle, is proud of the event’s legacy: “The Mattara has such a special place in Australian and international surfing history. The winners list reads like a who’s who of Australian surfing royalty, with former champions including Michael Petersen, Mark Richards, Tom Carroll, Peter Drouyn, and Peter McCabe, among many other household names.” He added, “We are really proud to have been able to continue the contest, and we think 63 consecutive years of competition calls for a big celebration”.

This year’s event features something special for surfers and fans, with the addition of a Longboard and Logger division. Sponsored by Platts Surfwear, the longboard event pays homage to the original pioneers of the competition. Nostalgia will play a big part, with memorabilia from the 1960s on display, showcasing what the original finalists used to ride during the contest’s early years.

For the competitive side of things, there are several divisions in play, including Shortboarding, Kneeboarding, and the new Longboarding categories. McKenna also highlighted the importance of supporting young talent, with the U/16 Boys and Girls divisions carrying Surfing Australia National Junior Ranking points

With $3,000 in prize money up for grabs, the stakes are high. The Open Men and Women’s divisions each offer a $1,000 prize to the winners, while the U/16 Boys and U/16 Girls winners will each walk away with $500.

The event, which is proudly sponsored by Michilis Pty Ltd, promises a fun and nostalgic celebration of Newcastle’s rich surfing heritage. While entries are already sold out, spectators are welcome to head down to Bar Beach to enjoy the show.

For more information, you can contact Teza McKenna via email at tez@surfingnewcastle.com.au or text him on 0401 023 661.