OUR pristine beaches are the setting for two sets of State Surfing Titles which are being held at Port Stephens with some of the state’s best stand-up paddle boarders and longboarders competing across two events.

The two-state title events will form the Port Stephens Surf Festival and decide the NSW Teams for the upcoming Australian SUP Titles and the Australian Longboard Titles.

170 surfers and paddle boarders are expected to take to the surf during the event which will see longboards run from 29 April – 1 May and the SUP’s from 2 May – 4 May.

Port Stephens Council Mayor Ryan Palmer is thrilled to welcome our states best stand-up paddlers and longboarders to the region.

“After a tough 12 months it’s wonderful to see these events returning to Port Stephens — it’s the boost our community and local businesses needed.

“Our region has shared a healthy relationship with Surfing NSW over the years and I look forward to the six-day event getting underway and wish all the competitors the best of luck when the competition reaches our shores next week.”

The 2021 event will replicate the format from previous years which engages a second chance format across all divisions.

However, depending on the number of competitors, some divisions may be reduced to straight knockout.

For the second time, Surfing NSW will be adding a fun-filled tag team event.

Each team will be made up of four surfers.

The team must be made up of one Junior (male or female) and at least one Over-40 competitor (male or female).

Port Stephens local Josh Stretton is the SUP Australian Champion in under 18’s and the first to qualify on a national level being youngest competitor in open mens.

Josh Stretton told News Of The Area, “Looking forward to having another comp at home, sleeping in your own bed and getting to surf there’s nothing better than that.

“I’d like there to be 3-4 foot range waves and hopes for clean conditions so everyone can be surfing well,” he said.

The 2021 Port Stephens Surf Festival is proudly supported by Australian Skin Cancer Clinics, Crest Café, Gildan, Port Stephens Council and Surfing NSW.

 

By Marian SAMPSON