The 2024 Australian Surfing Awards brought the surfing community together for an unforgettable evening at HOTA, Home of the Arts, on the Gold Coast. A celebration of remarkable achievements, the event honoured surfers, photographers, filmmakers, and innovators who have made outstanding contributions to the sport.
Headlining the night was Luke Egan’s induction into the prestigious Australian Surfing Hall of Fame. The Newcastle native, known for his illustrious 22-year career on the ASP/World Surf League Championship Tour, joined the ranks of surfing legends such as Joel Parkinson, Mark “Occy” Occhilupo, and Mark Richards. In an emotional sit-down interview, Egan reflected on his career, which featured four event wins and a runner-up finish in the 2000 World Title race, saying he felt honoured to be recognised alongside his heroes. His award was presented by close friend Matt Hoy.
The night highlighted Australia’s top surfing talent, with Jack Robinson and Molly Picklum earning the Male and Female Surfer of the Year titles, respectively. Both athletes have showcased outstanding performances on the global stage, cementing their reputations as two of the world’s best.
Rising stars were also celebrated. Dane Henry took home the Mick Fanning Rising Star Award, while Sierra Kerr received the Stephanie Gilmore Rising Star Award. These young surfers are tipped to be the future of Australian surfing, with Kerr’s under-18 category win showcasing her talent and potential to follow in the footsteps of the award’s namesake, Stephanie Gilmore.
Para surfing achievements were acknowledged with Jocelyn Neumueller and Kai Colless named Female and Male Para Surfers of the Year, demonstrating the depth of skill and dedication within this inspirational community.
Honouring Surfing Legends
Surfing icon Layne Beachley was awarded Surfing Australia Life Membership for her unparalleled contributions to the sport. As a seven-time World Champion, including an extraordinary streak of six consecutive titles, Beachley has not only achieved incredible competitive success but has also championed equality in surfing. Her advocacy for pay equity and support for women’s surfing events has left an enduring legacy.
The evening also featured the presentation of the Peter Troy Lifetime Achievement Award to Max Wells, recognising his long-standing dedication to the growth of surfing in Australia.
The celebration wasn’t limited to surfers alone. Tasmanian photographer Nick Green won Surf Photo of the Year for capturing Laura Enever’s daring wipeout at Shipstern Bluff—an image that encapsulated the raw power and unpredictability of the ocean. Soli Bailey took home the Heavy Water Award for his fearless approach to big wave surfing and also shared the Surf Clip of the Year award with Chris Peel.
The Surf Film of the Year award went to Jay Phillips Isn’t Dead, a project praised for its creative storytelling and celebration of surfing culture.
Jordie Campbell received the Indigenous Surfing Community Celebration Award, while Patagonia was recognised for its environmental initiatives with the Sustainability Award. Additionally, the Surfrider Foundation earned the Greater Good Award for its efforts to protect and preserve Australia’s coastlines.
The Australian Surfing Awards also celebrated the business and innovation side of the sport. Rivvia Projects was named Breakthrough Surf Brand of the Year, while Darren Handley of DHD Surfboards won Shaper of the Year, highlighting his craftsmanship and impact on the sport.
Burleigh Boardriders Club received the Simon Anderson Boardrider Club Award, recognising their community spirit and commitment to fostering local talent. Meanwhile, Surfing Services Surf School took home Surf School of the Year, underscoring the importance of grassroots surfing education.
Hosted by renowned surf media personality Vaughan Blakey, the 2024 Australian Surfing Awards were held for the first time at the iconic HOTA, Home of the Arts. The venue was a fitting stage for this vibrant celebration, bringing together Australia’s best surfers, coaches, photographers, and brands under one roof.
With over 20 award categories, the event highlighted the talent and dedication driving Australian surfing forward, from grassroots development to the international stage. It was a night to reflect on achievements, honour legends, and inspire the next generation of surfers who will continue to shape the sport’s future.
The Surfing Australia 2024 Australian Surfing Awards Winners
Hall of Fame Inductee: Luke Egan
Male Surfer of the Year: Jack Robinson
Female Surfer of the Year: Molly Picklum
Rising Stars: Dane Henry (Male), Sierra Kerr (Female)
Para Surfers of the Year: Jocelyn Neumueller (Female), Kai Colless (Male)
Heavy Water Award: Soli Bailey
Surf Photo of the Year: Nick Green featuring Laura Enever
Surf Clip of the Year: Soli Bailey & Chris Peel
Surf Film of the Year: Jay Phillips Isn’t Dead
Shaper of the Year: Darren Handley
Greater Good Award: Surfrider Foundation
Breakthrough Surf Brand: Rivvia Projects
Sustainability Award: Patagonia
From honouring icons like Luke Egan and Layne Beachley to recognising rising stars and innovative brands, the 2024 Australian Surfing Awards showcased the passion, talent, and diversity that define Australian surfing.
Photos Supplied by Surfing Australia.
