The Flatrock Bodysurfing Invitational, the only bodysurfing contest in Australia held on reef, takes place every August at Flatrock, situated on the Cowrie Hole side of Newcastle Ocean Baths.

This contest is not for the general public – entry is by invitation only. Local bodysurfing exponent Greg Mayers assembles a list of approximately 20 competitors that includes Olympic swimmers, iron-men, lifeguards and triathletes.

It is a short event - only 4 hours long and held on the low tide. The high tide is generally considered when this break works best, but due to the localised nature of the break, high tide is avoided to keep the constabulary on side. Nevertheless, it gets a good wave on all tides, as has proven to be the case in contests gone by.

The contest remains an underground event that receives no sponsorship and scarce publicity. It has been earning a name for itself since its inception, with numerous potential competitors having to be put on a reserve list due to the demand for a spot in the line-up.

Attention all Bodysurfers

Newcastle Australia is home to an annual bodysurfing event that has gone from strength to strength in recent years, so much so that we would like to extend an invitation to International competitors.

The Flatrock Bodysurfing Invitational is Australia's only bodysurfing contest held on reef. The contest is open to those who receive an invitation to compete, keeping the standard at a high level. It is a short-format contest that has a low number of competitors (approximately 20-25, give or take a few), and goes for a 5 hour duration. These numbers may increase, depending on interest.

Previous competitors include lifeguards, triathletes, Iron men and Olympic Swimmers. This is not a contest for beginners!
The event is a free-hand event, i.e. no handboards allowed. Wetsuits, fins and gloves are all permissible, and in fact recommended as the event is held in August, which is in the Australian winter. Water temperatures generally hover around 16˚ Celsius (61˚ F) that time of year.

Unfortunately we do not have the luxury of a holding period. If the surf on the day is too big/small, the event will be postponed for two weeks. For this reason we caution against traveling to Australia solely for the event! Be aware you come at your own inconvenience if the event is postponed or, God forbid, has to held in less-than-desirable conditions. Your trip here won't be a disaster if you are already traveling to Australia for business or a holiday.

Some details about the event:

Venue: Flatrock, Newcastle NSW. Newcastle is the next major city north of Sydney, about an hour's drive.

Date: August 11, 2013 (backup date August 25)

Entry Fee: $45 AUS (can be paid on the day) We put on a barbecue and everyone gets a t-shirt. We will need your t-shirt size beforehand.

Start: 7.30am

For more Information: Ryan Fitzgerald - seswell2000@yahoo.com.au