Excitement is building as the 2025 Gold Coast Open (GCO) returns to Burleigh Heads from February 14-16, bringing world-class surfing action to one of Australia’s most iconic breaks. The event will feature the highly anticipated World Surf League (WSL) Qualifying Series (QS) 1000-rated competition, giving surfers a crucial chance to earn points towards qualification for the 2025 WSL Challenger Series.
Adding to the action, this year also marks the second consecutive Longboard Qualifying Series (LQS) event at Burleigh Heads. As one of only two LQS events in Australia, it plays a vital role in determining qualifications for the 2025 World Longboard Tour.
Surfers to Watch
Among the standout competitors is Reef Heazlewood (AUS), who has his sights set on securing valuable QS points to earn his way back to the Challenger Series.
“I am stoked to be surfing in the Gold Coast Open. The waves look great today, and the forecast for the weekend is even better,” said Heazlewood. “I am hoping to rack up some points from this event for my Qualifying Series campaign and get back on the Challenger Series.”
Also returning to competition is former Championship Tour (CT) surfer and past Gold Coast Open champion Sophie McCulloch (AUS). McCulloch is eager to test herself again following a back injury that sidelined her last year.
“The Gold Coast has incredible waves, especially at Burleigh Heads. But with great waves come big crowds, so it’s always amazing to surf a heat with just a few people in the water,” said McCulloch. “The surf forecast for the Gold Coast Open is looking really good, so I can’t wait to get out in the water and hopefully get a few heats under my belt!”
A Showcase of Surfing Talent
Surfing Queensland CEO Mark Flanagan expressed his excitement about hosting another edition of the Gold Coast Open, which continues to attract both local and international talent.
“The Gold Coast Open has been a major focus for Surfing Queensland, and we’re proud to host an event that showcases both local and international talent at one of Queensland’s most iconic locations,” said Flanagan. “Following the successful debut of a longboard QS at Burleigh Heads last year, we’re excited to see a diverse lineup of professional athletes competing once again. We welcome everyone to join us for this three-day event, celebrating some of the best surfing talent out there.”
City of Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate also highlighted the significance of the event for the region.
“Three days of celebrating the best in surfing culture… that’s what makes this event so special,” said Tate. “This year is shaping as one of the biggest for our city’s events calendar. Make a date with the Gold Coast Open and join in the excitement.”
It’s On: The Gold Coast Pro is Underway
The Gold Coast Open, formerly known as the Burleigh Pro, has a strong history of attracting top surfers from around the world. Past winners include Taj Burrow, Julian Wilson, Dimity Stoyle, Owen Wright, Sophie McCulloch, Mitch Crews, and Isabella Nichols. The competition continues to draw international competitors from surfing hotspots like Hawaii, Indonesia, North America, France, Brazil, and Japan.
The 2025 Gold Coast Open runs from February 14 – 16 at Burleigh Heads, Queensland. Fans and spectators can follow all the action and updates at WorldSurfLeague.com.
