Newcastle making waves on the world surfing stage | Australian Markets

Newcastle is making waves like by no means earlier than, formally moving into the international highlight as the first stop of the prestigious 2025/26 World Surf League (WSL) Challenger Series.

For the first time ever, Australia’s oldest and most iconic surfing competition, Surfest, has been elevated to the WSL Challenger Series calendar, propelling Newcastle to the forefront of the worldwide surfing scene.

This announcement marks a landmark second not just for Newcastle however for the wider Hunter area, signalling a new period for tourism and international recognition.

With Surfest now headlining a world-class skilled surfing competitors, Newcastle is set to draw hundreds of guests, from elite athletes to passionate followers, placing the metropolis firmly on the world map as a premier coastal vacation spot.

Supported by the NSW Government via Destination NSW, the occasion’s return has been confirmed for 8–15 March 2026, the place the WSL Challenger Series will as soon as again close out its season on Newcastle’s shores.

This ongoing dedication ensures that Newcastle will proceed to construct on the momentum generated in 2025, reinforcing its repute as a world-class surfing hub.

The 2026 Surfest may also rejoice its unimaginable fortieth anniversary, marking 4 many years of showcasing grassroots, beginner {and professional} surfing competitions alongside Newcastle and the Hunter’s shoreline.

With more than 80 elite male surfers and 48 elite feminine surfers competing for coveted spots on the WSL Championship Tour, the occasion guarantees thrilling competitors and unforgettable moments.

Projected to draw a international broadcast viewers of 3.5 million viewers, Surfest will shine an worldwide highlight on Newcastle’s wealthy surfing heritage, vibrant tradition and spectacular shoreline.

This occasion is anticipated to inject important financial and tourism advantages into the Hunter area, drawing guests and media from throughout the globe.

Adding to Newcastle’s surfing surge, the imminent August opening of Newcastle Airport’s worldwide terminal will present direct entry for worldwide athletes, media and followers, additional cementing the metropolis’s standing as a key vacation spot on the world surfing circuit.

As Newcastle rides this thrilling wave, the metropolis is poised to change into a must-visit vacation spot for surfers and vacationers alike, showcasing the best of Australia’s coastal way of life on a really international stage.

Minister for Tourism Steve Kamper mentioned:

“Surfest is more than just a sporting event – it brings thousands of visitors, boosts local businesses, and showcases the talent and spirit of Newcastle’s incredible surfing community.

“This is an exciting time for Newcastle. Surfest is riding a wave of momentum and the NSW Government is proud to support its growth into an even bigger international event.”

Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley mentioned:

“Hosting the WSL Challenger Series puts the Hunter on the map and shows off what makes this place so special – great waves, amazing scenery and a laid-back lifestyle.

“This event means more visitors, more business for our local shops and cafes and more jobs for people right here in the Hunter.

“We’re building the Hunter into a place people want to visit again and again – with must-see events, beautiful beaches and a real sense of community.”

Member for Newcastle Tim Crakanthorp mentioned:

“Surfest is part of the fabric of Newcastle. It brings our community together, celebrates our beautiful coastline and showcases the passion and talent of our local surf scene.

“It’s fantastic to see the NSW Government backing this iconic event, and I look forward to welcoming visitors from around the world to experience the best of what Newcastle has to offer.”

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