ASB MAGAZINE: The Andrews Labor Government has locked in the world’s longest running surfing contest – the Rip Curl Pro – at Bells Beach until at least 2022. Minister for Tourism and Major Events John Eren joined young surfers from the Indigenous and elite Surfing Victoria Program at Bells Beach today to announce the new five year deal. There’s nothing better than a packed Bells Beach at Easter, watching the world’s best surfers battle it out in their quest to ring the famous bell.
“The Rip Curl Pro is going nowhere – these world-class competitions are right at home in the sporting capital” said Minister for Tourism and Major Events John Eren.
“For over 30 years, this event has helped shape the proud history of Bells Beach. This new deal will keep attracting thousands of visitors to the region, creating jobs and boosting local business.”
The fixture is another opportunity for Victoria to show the world that no one puts on a show like we do – and holding the Championship Tour third leg is exactly that.
International stars Kelly Slater and this year’s women’s winner Courtney Conlogue are among the hottest properties who have made countless trips to Bells Beach, while Aussie favourite Stephanie Gilmore will hope to do one better in 2018 after finishing runner up this year.
The new deal will ensure visitors from far and wide continue to flock to the Surf Coast, keeping local businesses buzzing following the busy summer period.
Around 30,000 people attended this year’s event and checked out the sweeping turns of the Great Ocean Road, with millions of fans worldwide tuning in on their screens.
World Surf League Senior Vice President of Communications Dave Prodan echoed the thoughts of Minister Eren.
“Bells Beach is such an important event on the WSL Championship Tour calendar and we look forward to bringing the world’s best surfers back to Victoria each year to showcase their incredible talents at such an iconic location.”
The Labor Government is proud to have helped secure the Rip Curl Pro thanks to funding from the Major Events Fund, designed to attract the biggest and best events to Victoria.
VIA PRESS RELEASE.
