Fifteen of Southern NSW’s best boardrider clubs, stretching from Bondi to the Victorian border, went head-to-head at Wanda Beach over the weekend for the ABB Southern NSW Qualifier. In clean yet testing 2–3ft conditions, Elouera Boardriders came out on top after a day of tight battles and standout performances across the draw.
The local crowd was treated to some world-class surfing, with Scarborough, Sandon Point, and Culburra all putting on strong displays. Former Championship Tour surfer Owen Wright was a crowd favourite, flying the flag proudly for his hometown club. While Lani Cairncross also turned heads, taking out Wave of the Day.
In a thrilling final showdown, Elouera Boardriders sealed victory thanks to a clutch 6.23 from April Davey, edging out Southend Maroubra. Tye Koolis kept the pressure on with a key 5.40, while Ulladulla and North Maroubra rounded out the top four.
Adding to the day’s accolades, Blake Thornton from Southend Boardriders was named Overall Performer of the Day after a string of standout heats. Thornton reflected on the effort behind his team’s run:
“I’m convinced I received this for surfing the most in the ABB qualifier,” said Thornton. “We had to do it the hard way through the repechage, and the body’s definitely feeling it today, but a strong second place will see our club at Burleigh next year. Hands down the best team event to be a part of and watch.”
The Team Spirit Award went to North Maroubra Surfriders, who brought unmatched energy and camaraderie throughout the event.
Special mention also goes to Scarborough, Sandon Point, Jones Beach, and Southbridge Boardriders, who finished inside the top eight and earned their place at the Surfing Australia National Final in Burleigh Heads.
- NSW Central – 8th November, North Narrabeen, NSW
- NSW North – 15th November, Coffs Harbour, NSW
About Australian Boardrider clubs
There are more than 250 boardrider clubs across the country, where members gather regularly, often monthly, to organise grassroots competitions at world-class waves such as Burleigh Heads. The boardrider club phenomenon in Australia has made a significant contribution to the nation’s competitive success on the global stage, fostering close-knit communities that support young surfers on their journeys to becoming the next world champions.