SYDNEY, NSW – Tuesday, February 24th, 2026: Surfing NSW is proud to announce the renewal of its partnership with Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles (VWC), extending the collaboration into its ninth year.
The renewed partnership will continue to see VWC support Surfing NSW’s delivery across the state, strengthening the ecosystem that keeps surfing moving in New South Wales – from the volunteers and families at boardriders clubs, to the athletes chasing results, to the major moments that bring the community together on the beach.
Delivering value on the beach and beyond
“Surfing is part of Australia’s cultural DNA, and it aligns naturally with what Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles stands for. Entering its ninth year, our partnership with Surfing NSW has allowed us both to help keep their events, athletes and communities moving up and down the coast. We’re proud to continue that support, from grassroots boardriders clubs through to flagship state events, and to play a role in strengthening the surfing ecosystem across New South Wales.”
Nathan Johnson, Director, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles.
Surfing NSW CEO Lucas Townsend welcomed the renewal, noting that long-term partnerships like VWC’s are critical to sustaining grassroots development, strengthening clubs and delivering consistent experiences across the state.
“It’s fair to say few brands have supported grassroots surfing in NSW as consistently as Volkswagen Commercial. We’re genuinely grateful for the past nine years.
This partnership, built around community, allows our team to be present on beaches across the state, supporting clubs, running events and showing up for volunteers and young surfers where it matters most.
There’s also a cultural connection that feels natural. Since the 50s, VW vans have been parked at headlands and beach breaks, chasing swells up and down the coast. Seeing that heritage carry through to the electric ID. Buzz feels like the same spirit, just reimagined for a new era.”
Lucas Townsend, CEO, Surfing NSW
Over the partnership to date, VWC has backed surfing in New South Wales from grassroots to professional level, including naming rights support of the VW State Classic and VW Tradies Surfmasters, Kombi Rally activations in Manly and Cronulla celebrating VW’s surf heritage in Australia, and vehicle support that helps Surfing NSW deliver programs and events across the coastline.
The partnership has also brought surf culture to life through collaborations and road trips up and down NSW, from creative event moments featuring local artists painting VW vehicles, to Surfing NSW membership road trips designed to check in on boardriders clubs from border to border.
What the renewed partnership delivers
The renewed partnership will continue to support Surfing NSW through:
- On-beach club support, year-round: Helping Surfing NSW strengthen club operations and community participation with consistent presence across the coastline.
- Key event integration: Ongoing presence across major Surfing NSW events, including the VW State Classic, with opportunities for high-impact community experiences.
- Grassroots grants: A continued focus on helping clubs do what they do best, with practical support that can assist volunteers and help upgrade essential equipment.
Building on nine years
The renewed partnership reinforces Surfing NSW’s focus on delivering strong, consistent experiences across the state – supporting clubs, growing participation and elevating key events on the calendar.
It also reflects the kind of long-term collaboration that helps coastal communities thrive, creating meaningful opportunities for partners to connect authentically with the people and places that power NSW surfing.
About Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles
Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is part of Volkswagen Group Australia, supporting Australians with vehicles built for work, travel and coastal life.