BREAKING: The World Surf League has just confirmed that the iconic Surfest will return as the headliner in 2027, bringing a wave of excitement to Newcastle. This announcement, made on Saturday, October 21, 2023, during a visit to Merewether Beach, promises to attract millions of surfing fans to the region, enhancing Newcastle’s reputation as a premier surfing destination.
Newcastle’s top surfers celebrated this major milestone over the weekend as NSW Premier Chris Minns emphasized the significance of choosing Newcastle for this prestigious event. “Newcastle is world class,” stated Minns, who took to the waves himself alongside local MP Tim Crakanthorp. The inclusion of Surfest in the Challenger Series will showcase elite surfers from around the globe, including renowned names like John John Florence and Gabriel Medina.
This groundbreaking decision follows Newcastle securing the final Challenger Series tour date in June, effectively bookending the 2025-26 surfing season with two world-class events. The NSW Government has ambitious plans to inject millions into the local economy, aiming for a billions dollar increase in visitor spending over the next decade.
“This is about showing the world that Newcastle is more than just an industrial city,” Premier Minns added, highlighting the need for increased tourism and economic growth.
The announcement also coincides with Surfest’s upcoming 40th anniversary in 2026. A legend in the surfing community, Mark Richards, a four-time world champion, expressed his excitement: “Every pro surfer dreams of having a major event in their hometown. Seeing the best surfers in the world on our local beaches is truly special.”
Co-founder Warren Smith echoed this sentiment, stating that the festival’s longevity is a testament to the dedication of Newcastle’s community. “This journey has involved countless Novocastrians who have put their heart and soul into this,” Smith said, emphasizing the community’s role in the festival’s success.
The event is poised to bring unprecedented attention to Newcastle, with Yasmin Catley, Minister for the Hunter, affirming that this new WSL Challenger Series date will open doors for tourism and investment. “There will be millions of eyes on this town,” she declared, signaling a bright future for Newcastle as a tourist destination.
Newcastle City Council has been a foundation partner of Surfest since its inception in 1985. Jeremy Bath, representing the council, expressed pride in Newcastle’s evolving image. “Surfest has played a vital role in putting Newcastle on the map as a vibrant city of leisure,” he stated.
As the Challenger Series prepares to kick off, local representatives are eager to welcome a global audience. Jake White, WSL’s Newcastle representative, remarked, “Newcastle has a proud surfing history, and it’s fitting that we continue this association with the Challenger Series.”
Surf enthusiasts and the local community will be looking forward to an exhilarating few years as preparations ramp up for Surfest’s return. This event not only promises thrilling competition but also serves as a celebration of Newcastle’s rich surfing culture and community spirit.
Stay tuned for more updates as Newcastle gears up for a spectacular surfing future with the return of Surfest and its elite competitors.
