Australia’s Best Indigenous Surfers Set To Gather At Djarrak For 13th Australian Indigenous Surfing Titles presented by Rip Curl

The spiritual home of Australian surfing, Djarrak / Bells Beach will once again play host to the nation’s premier celebration of Indigenous surfing and culture when the Australian Indigenous Surfing Titles presented by Rip Curl return to Wadawurrung Country later this month.

Now in its 13th year, the event has grown into one of the most significant gatherings on the national surfing calendar, bringing together elite Indigenous surfers, emerging talent, families and communities from across Australia for Three days of competition, culture and connection on the iconic Surf Coast.

Hosted by Surfing Victoria, the Australian Indigenous Surfing Titles presented by Rip Curl will feature divisions ranging from Under 18 through to Open Men and Women, Masters, Longboard and over 50’s, highlighting the depth of Indigenous surfing talent from around the country.

The event will once again centre around the world-famous lineup at Djarrak/Bells Beach, a location deeply connected to both surfing history and cultural significance. Competitors will experience the unique opportunity to surf one of the most revered waves in the world while celebrating Indigenous culture through storytelling, community activities and cultural experiences held throughout the event window.

A strong field of surfers is expected to contest the 2026 titles, with several standout athletes tipped to make an impact across multiple divisions.

Among those to watch is emerging Leihani Zoric from Byron Bay, whose rapid rise through the junior surfing ranks has made her one of the brightest young Indigenous surfers in the country. Known for her powerful rail surfing and progressive maneuvers, Zoric will enter the event with significant momentum following a string of standout performances nationally.

Former World Championship Tour competitor Lee Winkler will add further star power to the event. Widely regarded as one of Australia’s most accomplished Indigenous surfers, Winkler’s presence continues to inspire the next generation of competitors and reinforces the prestige of the titles.

Emerging Queensland surfer Kauri Hueston-Connor is another exciting name expected to feature prominently. Hueston-Connor has built a reputation for progressive surfing and confidence in powerful waves, making her a serious contender if conditions turn on at Bells Beach.

Meanwhile, Victorian stalwart Jordie Campbell will look to capitalise on local knowledge and continue his strong run of performances at Djarrak over the years. 

Surfing Victoria CEO Adam Robertson said the Australian Indigenous Surfing Titles had become a cornerstone event for both the surfing community and Indigenous sport nationally.

“The Australian Indigenous Surfing Titles are far more than a surfing competition. The event is a celebration of culture, community and connection through surfing, all held at one of the most iconic locations in Australian sport,” said Robertson.

“To see athletes and families travelling from all corners of the country to gather at Djarrak each year is incredibly special. The event continues to grow in significance and provides an amazing platform to showcase Indigenous excellence in surfing.”

“We are proud to continue working alongside Traditional Owners, Indigenous communities and our event partners to deliver an experience that celebrates culture while also creating meaningful pathways for young Indigenous surfers.”

Surfing Australia CEO Chris Symington is looking forward to supporting the event again in 2026.

“Djarrak / Bells Beach holds a special place in Australian surfing, and the Australian Indigenous Surfing Titles are a powerful celebration of culture, Country and community. Now in its 13th year, this event brings together some of the best Indigenous surfers from across the country, while honouring the deep connection Wadawurrung Traditional Owners have to this iconic coastline.

Surfing Australia is proud to support Surfing Victoria in delivering the Australian Indigenous Surfing Titles, and we thank the Wadawurrung Traditional Owners for their continued support.

We look forward to celebrating an incredible three days on Country.”

The Australian Indigenous Surfing Titles will run across three days on the Surf Coast, with champions to be crowned across all divisions at the conclusion of the event. 

The Australian Indigenous Surfing Titles will be held on May 29 – 31 at Djarrak / Bells Beach on Wadawurrung Country.

A welcome to Country will be held by Wadawurrung Traditional Owner at 7.30am on May 29th to open the event. All welcome.

Live scores and schedule can be found via www.australianindigenoussurfingtitles.com

The Australian Indigenous Surfing Titles is presented by Rip Curl and Headsox and supported by the Victorian Government, Surf Coast Events, VicHealth, Surfing Australia, Play it Safe by the Water, Cancer Council Sunscreen, Mizu Drinkbottles, Feed Me Surf Coast and Surf Better Now.