Scarborough Boardriders Club Celebrates 40 Years
This year, the Scarborough Boardriders Club (BRC) is celebrating its 40th anniversary, marking four decades of fostering surf culture and camaraderie in the northern suburbs of Wollongong. Since its humble beginnings in 1984, the club has grown into a cornerstone of the local surfing community, supporting generations of surfers, from young grommets to seasoned riders.
A Glimpse Into the Beginnings
Scarborough BRC was founded by a local surf enthusiast, Bettina Huckle (Bulli), who worked at Skipp Surfboards in Wollongong. Bettina noticed that the surfers in Scarborough consistently surfed together but had never competed against each other. Her vision was simple but impactful: to create a mini surf competition where local surfers could challenge one another while fostering a stronger sense of community.
With the support of John Skipp, who offered small prizes from his surf shop, Bettina launched the first of many monthly competitions, and the Scarborough Boardriders Club was born. Over the years, what began as a casual competition among friends has grown into a thriving club that continues to support and nurture surfing talent in the area.
Achievements and Highlights
Scarborough BRC’s success is not only measured by its growing membership and community presence but also by the smiles and bonds it has fostered over the years. The club has developed a clear pathway for young surfers, helping them build their skills and confidence as they progress through the different age divisions.
Among the club’s greatest achievements is its outstanding performance in the Australian Boardriders Battle (ABB). Competing against some of the best clubs in the country, Scarborough BRC has won the regional event multiple times, a testament to the depth of talent within the club. Remarkably, many of these wins have come from “underground” surfers—talented athletes who have little or no sponsorship deals but consistently punch above their weight in competitions.
The club’s strong ties to the community and its sponsorships have allowed it to thrive, and its inclusive culture ensures that everyone—whether young or old, beginner or advanced—can find a home in Scarborough BRC.
A Night to Remember: 40th Anniversary Gala
To commemorate 40 years of surf and community, Scarborough BRC is hosting a gala night on Saturday, 28th September, at the Headlands Hotel. The evening will be filled with celebrations, including a performance by the band Tongue and Groove, a three-course meal, raffles, guest speakers, and a slideshow presentation highlighting the history of the club.
This event is a chance for past and present members to come together, share stories, and celebrate the journey of the club that has shaped the local surfing scene.
What’s Next for Scarborough BRC?
Looking ahead, the club aims to continue its growth, maintaining its inclusive culture while nurturing the next generation of surfers. With a focus on putting smiles on members’ faces and keeping the community spirit alive, Scarborough BRC is poised to continue its legacy for years to come.
The club has already identified future champions in its younger divisions, with surfers like Ashton Mekisic (U14), Macey Jolley (U16), and Noah Kornek (U12) showing tremendous promise. These young talents represent the future of the club, and with the support of Scarborough BRC, they’re sure to make waves in the surfing world.
As Scarborough Boardriders Club celebrates its 40th anniversary, it remains a shining example of what a community-driven club can achieve, both in the water and beyond. Here’s to many more years of surfing, competition, and camaraderie!
