Newcastle is looking to lock in the international status of Surfest, with City of Newcastle proposing up to $250,000 in annual funding to support its inclusion on the World Surf League (WSL) Challenger Series through to 2028.
The iconic surf event, set to return to Merewether Beach in less than two weeks, is poised to draw global attention and local crowds.
A vote at Tuesday’s Ordinary Council Meeting will determine whether the City commits to a three-year investment package that includes both cash and in-kind support.
The proposed Surfest funding is contingent on Destination NSW increasing its own support to help cement the event’s place on the WSL’s second-tier tour, a critical pipeline for future world champions.
Elevating Surfest to the Challenger Series marks a major milestone in its 40-year history, positioning Newcastle among the top 16 surfing destinations worldwide.
This year’s event is expected to reach 3.2 million live viewers and generate more than 50 million social media impressions, boosting Newcastle’s profile as a global surf and tourism destination.
For the City of Newcastle, the proposal aligns with its Strategic Event Partnership Program, which has already committed up to $2 million annually to attract and retain major events.
“City of Newcastle is proud to be one of the foundation sponsors of Surfest, which will celebrate
its 40th anniversary in 2026,” Chair of City of Newcastle’s Sports Infrastructure Working Party Councillor Peta Winney-Baartz said.
“Surfest gives our young athletes the opportunity to see their heroes in their hometown, whether
they dream about following in their footsteps or just want to see them at their local beach.”
Since its inception in 1985, Surfest has been a catalyst for Newcastle’s transformation from an industrial hub to a coastal hotspot.
The 2025 World Surf League, Challenger Series is happening from 2 to 8 of June, 2025. To check out the full schedule of events, head over to www.surfest.com.
