Communities gather for the Woorangalook Koori Surfing Titles on Wadawurrung Country

Indigenous communities have gathered together on Wadawurrung Country at Urquhart Bluff for the annual Woorangalook Koori Surfing Titles over the weekend.
 
The annual tradition has now been running for over 20 years and sees Indigenous Victorian surfers young and old come together to catch up, surf and share stories from the last 12 months.
 
2021 saw a slightly modified format due to COVID-19 restrictions with the 130 competitors spaced out into smaller groups throughout the weekend to ensure minimal contact between competitors.
 
“After the year we have had, this event means more than ever now” said Surfing Victoria Indigenous Aquatics Manager and Open Men’s Champion Jordie Campbell
 
“ It was amazing to catch up with the crew, have a yarn and go for a surf. Although the event ran slightly different to normal, the vibe was still the same and everyone was there to have a good time.”
 
The event gives community members from all skill levels and opportunity to compete with lessons being run for the beginners to being as well as heats for the more experienced competitors.
 
“This was the first year I have surfed in the event and I loved every minute of the weekend” said Open Women’s champion Linley Hurrel.
 
‘It really reminded me of being at my nan’s with all of my cousins. I’ll be back every year from now on for sure.”
 
Results:
Under 6 Mixed – Lielea Tuitupa
Under 10 Girls – Keilisha McIntosh
Under 10 Boys – Kieran Wellington
Under 13 Girls – Taylah Rodaugham
Under 13 Boys – Malakai Miller
Under 16 Girls – Lenella Collins
Under 16 Boys – Charlie Carlson
Under 18 Girls – Trephy Grant
Under 18 Boys – Neil Miller
Open Women – Linley Hurrell
Open Men – Jordie Campbell
Over 35 Women – Corrina Eccles
Over 35 Men – Rhys Collins
Teams – CFMEU
 
The Woorangalook Koori Surfing Titles is supported by Play it Safe by the Water, VicHealth, Sport and Rec Victoria, Strong Brother Strong Sister, ONABAC, Wathaurong Aboriginal Co-Op, Narana Cultural Centre, CFMEU, Kieser Australia, Ngarrimili, Yakeen Safety, Wadawurrung Traditional Owners, Victoria Police, Department of Justice and Bells Beach Bin Hire.