Flat Rock Bodysurfing Invitational

When: Approximately August each year.
Where: Cowrie Hole, Newcastle, NSW Australia
Contact: Greg – gregmayers527@yahoo.com.au
No Money or Entry Fees Taken On Day Of Event

Contest Information

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.