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The Victorian Indigenous Surfing Program is the key initiative of Surfing Victoria’s Indigenous Strategic Pillar and is one of the longest running Indigenous engagement programs in the country.

Founded in 1998, the program uses Surfing as a way to connect Indigenous Victorians with the ocean whilst learning new skills, water safety knowledge and healthy habits. Strong Aboriginal community leadership and engagement in culturally safe and engaging environments that are inclusive, respectful and flexible are they core values of the program to ensure its success.

The program is headed up by Surfing Victoria Indigenous Aquatics Manager, Jordie Campbell and utilises an extensive group of role models across the state to run programs. In 2023/24, the program saw over 800 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Participants.

Upcoming Schedule:

End of Year Afternoon Sessions!

Bancoora Surf Sessions 4:30PM Wednesday 21st October 2026

Horsham – Weir Park 5:00PM Tuesday 27th October 2026

Bancoora Surf Sessions 4:30PM Wednesday 4th November 2026

Stawell – Lake Fyans 5:00PM Tuesday 10th November 2026

Ballarat – Lake Esmond 4:00PM Thursday 12th November 2026

Bancoora Surf Sessions 4:30PM Wednesday 18th November 2026

Dimboola – Rowing Club 5:00PM Tuesday 24th November 2026

Ballarat – Lake Esmond 4:00PM Thursday 26th November 2026

Bancoora Surf Sessions 4:30PM Wednesday 2nd December 2026

Everything is provided! Including a feed! All ages welcome Elder’s and family encouraged to get involved!

SAVE THE DATE:

Woorrangalook Victorian Koori Surfing Titles – February 6 & 7, 2027!

For more information and to register contact Joe Murray:

joe@surfingvic.com – 0490 441 820

Read Surfing Victoria's Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan

Meet the Mentors

Scroll over photo to read more!

Jordie Campbell

Surfing Victorian’s Indigenous Aquatics manager
12x Victorian Indigenous Champion
Was first introduced to the program in 2006

“Its been amazing to see the programs grow and change over the time I have been involved, starting off in the program as a participants, becoming and mentor and now managing the program has been amazing. I have been able to not only create life long friendships but also grow and learn more about my culture through the people I have met along the journey.”

Corrina Eccles

Wadawurrung Traditional Owner
Former Surfing Victoria Board Member
Was first involved in the program 15 plus years ago

Joe Murray

Program Mentor
Moved to Wadawurrung Country in 2022

“Being part of the Indigenous Surfing Program has been an absolute honor. I’ve learned so much along the way and continue to grow every day. Our programs are always such a great time, bringing the community together to connect, share, and learn from one another. I’m excited for the fun times ahead with all the mob who join us at future programs!”

Bel Gee

Program Mentor
Started as a participant in 2023

“Working with Surfing Victoria and the Indigenous Surfing Programs has taught me that it’s more than just riding waves. It’s about sharing cultures, empowering our next generations and reconnecting with waters across Victoria. It’s been such a rewarding journey, where I’m in constant support by those around me and enjoyed every minute!”

Anthony Hume

Program Catalyst in 1998
Former Indigenous Aquatics Officer

“With out the program I wouldn’t be who I cam today, from getting a scholarship as a teenager to do my Level 1 Surf coach, working for Surfing Victoria for many years and continuing to work for them as a mentor. It allows me to combine both my love for surfing and my love for my culture while passing on knowledge to the next generation.”

Over the past 2 years, the program has expanded from coastal location to inland, with the inclusion of a Stand-Up Paddleboard program which has been able to reach new communities in regional inland locations.

Programs are run across the state between October to May with locations covering the regions of the Surf Coast, Western Victoria, Ballarat, Bendigo, Metro Melbourne, Bass Coast, Lakes Entrance and Mallacoota.

“The girls have been dealing with a lot of social issues, the program and surfing has been an amazing outlet for them”

– Shane Bell

"To see Jarrah’s little face absolutely ecstatic after catching his first few white waters to beach was priceless and makes me enthusiastic for us to continue down this path of enjoying the ocean and learning to surf whenever possible. I think this program you guys run is fantastic."

– Tyrone

"For 6 years I've been volunteering to take kids away to Koori Surfing programs across the state. All the kids engaged in everything, from learning to surf and their culture... these events are so important for our mob in so many ways!"

– Naomi Murphy

“Its amazing to see everyone doing the programs together, elders getting to come down and see their kids, grandchildren and all doing it together as one big community."

– Teresa Free

For more information or to discuss the program further please contact Jordie Campbell on (03) 5261 2907 or jordie@surfingvic.com.

The Victorian Indigenous Surfing Program is supported by the Victorian Government, VicHealth, Play it Safe by the Water, Headsox, Vitality Brands, Cancer Council Sunscreen, Strong Brother Strong Sister, Wadawurrung Traditional Owners and Surfing Victoria.