NEWCASTLE, AUSTRALIA — The Burton Automotive Newcastle Surfest will return from June 2 to June 8, marking its 39th year as one of Australia’s most celebrated surfing festivals. First held in 1985, Surfest has grown into the country’s largest surfing event, drawing elite competitors from around the world.
Over the years, some of the sport’s most recognized names—such as Mick Fanning, Kelly Slater, Sally Fitzgibbons, and Johanne Defay—have claimed victories at Surfest. In 2024, Australian surfers Joel Vaughan and Ellie Harrison earned the top spots. It was Vaughan’s second straight win, following his 2023 title.
Surfest is more than just a surfing contest. According to organizers, it is “a celebration of a city and its people and their special relationship with Australian beach culture.”
First Stop on WSL Challenger Series
In 2025, Newcastle Surfest will serve as the opening event of the World Surf League (WSL) Challenger Series. Surfers will compete for a chance to qualify for the 2026 WSL Championship Tour. Strong and consistent performances will be essential.
WSL APAC President Andrew Stark praised the event’s return to the global stage.
“The WSL is extremely excited to see such a historic event return to the world stage as a Challenger Series event in 2025,” Stark said. “The sport’s biggest names have competed at this event for almost four decades, and the continued success of Newcastle Surfest is a testament to the passion of the surf community. We can’t wait to see the world’s best come back to Newcastle and battle it out for the Mark Richards Trophy once again.”
While the competition will be fierce, organizers emphasize that the heart of Surfest remains in its community. The festival is a chance for surfers to connect, celebrate their sport, and enjoy the vibrant culture of Newcastle.