To members of the NSW surfing community,
See this as an update for our Surfing NSW position which relates to COVID-19 as of today.
As you are all aware, the COVID-19 information – not only from a state and national perspective but also on a global scale – is evolving constantly. The health and safety of our members, the wider surfing community, the Surfing NSW team and your environment are paramount; therefore we will endeavour to keep abreast of updated information and act accordingly in compliance with State and Federal Government advice as it happens.
The COVID-19 restrictions that were set on Saturday 14th August have been extended for Greater Sydney until the end of September, while stay-at-home orders for regional and rural NSW will be eased on 13th September.
Below is the latest update from the NSW Government available to Surfing NSW. Failure to comply with these current restrictions carries significant financial penalties and we would urge all surf school operators and boardrider clubs to make sure that they are compliant during this period.
Please see below link to the latest COVID-19 update: Sunday, 22nd August 2021 https://www.sport.nsw.gov.au/covid-19-information
All Surfing NSW staff are working remotely. Surfing NSW’s working days are Monday – Friday and the office phone (02) 9093 6035 will be attended from 9 am – 5 pm on these days.
For the entire lockdown period, between now and the end of September, no one will be able to physically visit the office aligned to the Public Health Order. Please call the Surfing NSW office on (02) 9093 6035 for all information.
Events (September)
September Events
- Woolworths Surfer Grom Comp – Kiama (postponed)- Moved to 13th -14th Nov, 2021
- Woolworths Surfer Grom Comp – Coffs Harbour (postponed)- Moved to 6th – 7th Nov, 2021
- Woolworths Surfer Grom Comp – Cronulla (postponed) – Moved to 4th – 5th Dec, 2021
- Australian Boardriders Battle – NSW Northern Region Qualifier – Coffs Harbour (postponed) – Moved to 18th Dec, 2021
Cancelled Events
- Rip Curl GromSearch NSW Qualifier Newcastle (cancelled)
Due to the high number of competitors needing to travel from many regional areas across the state, during uncertain and unpredictable travel restrictions, the collective decision has been made to cancel the 2021 NSW event.
Surfing NSW and Rip Curl are discussing options for NSW surfers to qualify for the Rip Curl GromSearch National Final (pending covid regulations allowing a National Final to be held).
The highest priority is the health and safety of all competitors and their families, staff, and event partners, as well as the local community with all event decisions being made.
We will be offering full refunds for those who are affected by the current COVID-19 situation or cannot attend the rescheduled date, however, it is important to note that you will lose your spot once a refund has been processed. If you decide to enter the event again at a later date, you will be at the end of the waitlist.
Surfing NSW is monitoring the evolving COVID-19 situation and will provide all competitors with changes as they come to hand.
Next update is on Friday, September 10, 2021, regarding NSW events scheduled in October.
Surf Schools
Surf Schools may wish to obtain independent legal advice and check in with their local council on your local rules and regulations on whether Surf Lessons can proceed in line with meeting the requirements under the Public Health Order.
While coaching and/or private tuition sporting activity may be considered work, it is NSW Health’s strong recommendation that people remain at home and if they have to go out, it’s only for essential reasons.
Outdoor public gatherings (including exercise and outdoor recreation) are limited to two people (excluding members of the same household). Exercise and outdoor recreation within their local government area or, if they need to cross into another local government area, stay within 5km of their home and do not enter a local government area of concern.
Regarding surfboard hire and retail activity – service providers must use a click and collect system. Requirements for Greater Sydney – outside of the local government areas of concern – can be found here and for the remainder of regional and rural NSW here.
Boardrider Clubs
No surfing competitions or club rounds can be held as the NSW Government has stated residents of Greater Sydney, regional and rural NSW must stay at home unless it is for essential reasons.
There can be no community sport (whether training or a match).
Surfing NSW does not administer the Public Health Act or have enforcement powers under the Public Health Order and, consequently, we are not able to comment as to its interpretation or application.
Everyone’s circumstances are different and people will need to make their own decisions to determine if the activity fits within restrictions. People should take a common-sense approach when considering whether their reason is reasonable and be prepared to explain their reason to NSW Police if asked.
https://www.sport.nsw.gov.au/covid-19-information#advice-metro
We will keep you informed the best we can as the uncertainties of the COVID-19 restrictions in New South Wales constantly change.
Programs
Her Wave: Her Wellness Experiences (Surf and Group Mindset Coaching)All Her Wellness events have been cancelled and postponed until further notice.
Surfers Rescue 24/7 – Based on the current Public Health Order, no Surfers Rescue 24/7 courses will take place until further notice
Financial assistance
Financial assistance is available from the NSW Government and Federal Government for individuals and organisations. For more information visit https://www.nsw.gov.au/covid-19/financial-support
For further information:
- NSW Government – Latest News and Updates
https://www.nsw.gov.au/covid-19/latest-news-and-updates - NSW Health
https://www.health.nsw.gov.au - Office of Sport – Community Sports information in Greater Sydney and in Regional NSW
https://www.sport.nsw.gov.au/covid-19-information
