Welcome message – 2024 Rip Curl Gromsearch Phillip Island

On behalf of the Victorian Government, I’d like to welcome you back to Phillip Island for the 2024 Rip Curl Gromsearch.

The inaugural competition, held in 2023, brought Australia’s best junior surfers to Bass Coast for an exciting marquee event on the Surfing Australia Junior Series calendar.

The energy at the event was electric, and the calibre of surfing was outstanding, which was reinforced when some of the Pro finalists went on to make a splash at the 2023 World Junior Surfing Championships in Brazil.

This year, there will be another 10,000 national ranking points up for grabs, and I’m sure there will be some fierce competition across all age divisions and categories.

The Victorian Government is proud to continue our support of the tournament that is quickly growing into a proving ground for Australia’s best young surfers, as one of only five marquee junior events in Australia.

Our support for the Gromsearch Phillip Island comes through the Victorian Government’s Significant Sporting Events Program which helps organisations deliver national, international, or regionally significant sporting events across Victoria.

Since 2010 the program has supported more than 975 events for Victoria, keeping local businesses busy, hotels and shopping strips bustling and local economies strong.

As well as showcasing the country’s best young surfers, the event will also shine a spotlight on a truly breathtaking part of Victoria. A region that’s home to some of Victoria’s most iconic tourist experiences – the Penguin Parade is a must-see – and a wealth of great food and drink offerings.

While you’re in town, I encourage you to make the most of your visit and explore the surf, sights and sounds on offer across the Bass Coast – and to all the Gromsearch Phillip Island competitors, best of luck!

Steve Dimopoulos MP

Member for Oakleigh

Minister for Tourism, Sports and Major Events