Seas The Day Returns: The World’s Biggest Female Surfing Event Hits Kingscliff Beach in 2025

The world’s largest female participation surfing event, Seas The Day, is set to return to Kingscliff Beach, NSW, on June 21-22, 2025. Officially launched at NSW Parliament by Premier Chris Minns, this year’s festival promises to be the biggest and best yet, celebrating women’s surfing, empowerment, and community engagement.

With the 2024 edition drawing a record 12,000 spectators and nearly 300 female surfers, the 2025 event aims to expand further, offering more competitions, interactive experiences, and inspiring discussions led by some of the world’s top female athletes and industry leaders.

A Celebration of Female Surfing and Empowerment

Seas The Day is not just a competition—it’s a festival designed to encourage women of all ages and skill levels to get involved in surfing in a supportive, fun, and pressure-free environment. It’s a space where elite athletes, casual surfers, and newcomers can come together, share experiences, and inspire each other.

Surfing Australia CEO, Chris Mater, emphasized the event’s significance:

“Seas The Day is a groundbreaking event for women in surfing. With nearly 300 competitors and 15,000 enthusiastic spectators, this festival not only showcases incredible talent but also unites the surfing community in an extraordinary way.
The workshops and inspirational talks led by some of the most influential figures in surfing are truly transformative, empowering all who attend. This festival is a testament to the strength, resilience, and passion of women surfers everywhere.
I extend my deepest gratitude to everyone involved in making this incredible weekend possible. Together, we continue to inspire and uplift one another, and I can’t wait to see it grow in 2025.”

The 2025 event will include:
✅ Fun Tag Team Surfing Competition – Open to women and girls of all skill levels
✅ Live Music & Entertainment – Featuring local artists, DJs, and performances
✅ Interactive Wellness Activities – Including yoga, ice baths, breathwork, and fitness sessions
✅ Guest Speaker Panels – Covering women in sport, career development, and health & wellness
✅ Celebrity Surf Challenge – Featuring world champions, Olympians, and media personalities
✅ Workshops & Training – Covering topics from sustainable surf practices to mental resilience in sports

This two-day event on the Tweed Coast will be bigger than ever, empowering women of all ages and backgrounds to connect, learn, and grow through the love of surfing.

Top Athletes, Olympians, and Rising Stars to Headline 2025 Festival

Seas The Day 2025 will feature an elite lineup of world-class athletes, rising stars, and industry pioneers, including:

🌊 Seven-time World Champion Layne Beachley – Returning to host her ‘Awake Academy’
🌊 Surviving Summer’s Lilliana Bowery – Netflix star and professional surfer
🌊 Leihani Zoric & Milla Brown – Rising stars and Australian Junior Surfer of the Year
🌊 Chelsea Hedges & Kate Wilcomes – Former world champions and industry leaders

Young talents are also taking center stage, including 13-year-old Gidget Kowalski, who competed in 2024 alongside legends Layne Beachley and Tru Starling.

“Surfing in a team takes the pressure off and makes it so much fun. Events like this encourage more girls to give it a go!” – Gidget Kowalski

The festival’s celebrity surf challenge will see Olympians, media personalities, and world champions come together for some friendly competition, supporting women’s sports and encouraging greater participation in surfing.

NSW Government’s Commitment to Women’s Sport

Seas The Day 2025 is proudly supported by a $100,000 grant from the NSW Government, reinforcing a strong commitment to female participation in sports.

Premier of New South Wales, Chris Minns, emphasized the importance of supporting women’s sports:

“Seas The Day is not just about competition—it’s about bringing people together, supporting local businesses, and creating opportunities for women in sport.
I can’t wait to see the next generation of champions ride the waves and experience the thrill of this incredible event.”

Minister for Women, Jodie Harrison, added:

“This festival aligns with the NSW Women’s Strategy 2023-2026, encouraging women and girls of all backgrounds to participate in sports.
I encourage everyone who can attend to show their support and cheer on these talented female surfers.”

Minister for Sport, Steve Kamper, highlighted the government’s commitment to hosting large-scale events across NSW:

“Over the last few years, we have seen a remarkable groundswell of support for fantastic women’s sporting events such as Seas The Day.
With legends like Layne Beachley leading the way, it is becoming ever easier for the next generation of women and girls to get involved in surfing.”

How to Get Involved

Women and girls of all skill levels are encouraged to join the competition in the following divisions:
🏄‍♀️ Open Women’s Shortboard (Sambazon)
🏄‍♀️ Open Women’s Longboard (Coffee Supreme)
🏄‍♀️ Ghanda Girls Under 18 Shortboard
🏄‍♀️ Salty Girls Surf School Under 12 Mini Shredders

The team-based format removes pressure and encourages fun, camaraderie, and skill-sharing.

Join the Movement

📅 Dates: June 21-22, 2025
📍 Location: Kingscliff Beach, NSW
🌐 More Info & Registration: SeasTheDaySurfFestival.com

Seas The Day is proudly funded by the NSW Government and supported by Tweed Shire Council and leading sponsors including:
🏆 Jim Beam
🏆 Sambazon
🏆 Ruffie Rustic Foods
🏆 Ghanda
🏆 Surfers for Climate

Be Part of the World’s Largest Female Surf Festival!

Whether you’re a competitor, spectator, or first-time surfer, Seas The Day 2025 offers something for everyone. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this empowering celebration of women’s surfing at Kingscliff Beach!

Lifesavers on High Alert as Heatwave and Tropical Cyclone Create a Perfect Storm

Key Messages:

• The aftermath of Tropical Cyclone Alfred has resulted in extensive coastal erosion and damage to beach access points across northern NSW.
• Surf Life Saving NSW (SLSNSW) warns the public to exercise extreme caution when entering the water, as the ability to launch rescue craft may be significantly impacted in many areas.
• Due to poor water quality caused by flooding, residents and visitors are strongly advised not to enter the ocean or flooded waterways, particularly in northern NSW.
• A heatwave is forecast, with temperatures expected to reach the mid-30s across the state over the weekend.

As flood recovery efforts continue in the wake of Tropical Cyclone Alfred, volunteer surf lifesavers and lifeguards are urging the public to prioritise safety. The use of rescue watercraft is expected to be severely hindered, making emergency response times longer than usual.

Coastal Erosion and Access Issues Hazardous surf conditions have caused extensive coastal erosion, particularly in northern NSW, making beach access difficult for lifesavers and patrol teams. Clubs and volunteers are currently assessing the feasibility of patrols ahead of the weekend, with concerns that some areas may not be safe for public access.

Water Quality and Debris Concerns Floodwaters have contaminated coastal waters with debris, increasing the risk to swimmers and complicating rescue operations. The most affected Local Government Areas (LGAs) include Tweed, Byron, Ballina, Richmond, and Clarence, though impacts could extend as far south as Port Macquarie.

Heatwave and Extreme Weather Risks Adding to these challenges, the Bureau of Meteorology has forecast high temperatures across multiple regions. On Sunday, the Hunter, Central Coast, and Sydney are expected to experience temperatures in the mid-30s, creating a perfect storm of dangerous conditions along the coastline.

Public Safety Advisory SLSNSW CEO Steve Pearce is strongly urging the public to reconsider beach visits, including sightseeing at exposed locations and rock platforms along the coast.

“We are expecting an incredibly busy weekend for our volunteers, and these extreme temperatures coincide with ongoing cyclone recovery efforts, making this a particularly dangerous time to visit the coast,” he said.

_“In many areas, the severe coastal erosion has made it nearly impossible to launch rescue watercraft quickly in an emergency.

“Please, follow the advice of our lifesavers and lifeguards this weekend. Check BeachSafe before heading to the coast, and do not enter the water unless you are at a patrolled beach, swimming between the red and yellow flags.”_

Ongoing Emergency Response SLSNSW is collaborating with the NSW Government and coastal councils to ensure volunteers are well-equipped to respond to emergencies in cyclone-affected areas.

Meanwhile, a second wave of SLSNSW volunteer Strike Teams deployed north yesterday to relieve volunteers who have been actively working in the field. SLSNSW teams continue to support SES and local communities, providing flood response assistance into the weekend.

Stay informed, stay safe, and prioritise safety as extreme weather conditions continue to impact NSW’s coastline.

World Surf League’s Callum Robson to Mentor Young Surfers at Reflections Cadet Cup

 Jeff Gibbs

Evans Head local and World Surf League competitor Callum Robson is set to inspire the next generation of surfing talent at the Reflections Cadet Cup, taking place at Rainbow Beach in Bonny Hills on March 1-2.

Robson will lead a hands-on workshop designed to blend physical training with essential career guidance for competitive surfers. “I’m really stoked to help steer the next generation of talented surfers,” he said. “We’ll be discussing everything from break knowledge and pre-event warm-ups to staying mentally on top of the competition pressure.”

World champion surfer Callum Robson will stage a workshop for talented groms at the Reflections Cadet Cup on March 1

Organised by Reflections, the largest holiday park group in New South Wales, in partnership with the iconic surfing festival Surfest, the event is a key fixture on Surfing Australia’s National Series calendar. This year’s competition will see 85 of the state’s top emerging surfers battling it out in Under 12, Under 14, and Under 16 categories across both male and female divisions.

The Cadet Cup, which debuted in February 2024 at Rainbow Beach and later expanded to Tuncurry in December 2024, has quickly become a vital platform for junior surfers. The event also enjoys the support of Port Macquarie-Hastings Council, underscoring its importance to regional sport and tourism.

Minister for Sport, Lands and Property Steve Kamper praised the growing momentum of the Cadet Cup, noting, “Reflections’ partnership with Surfest to host this event is a win-win for both sport and tourism, showcasing some of NSW’s best surf locations and supporting our local communities.”

Surfest Director Warren Smith echoed these sentiments, describing Bonny Hills as an ideal venue for the contest and expressing gratitude for Reflections Holidays’ ongoing support. Reflections Chief Marketing Officer Peter Chapman added that the event not only offers high-calibre surfing competition but also brings an extra layer of fun for guests through food pop-ups, live music, and community engagement.

As the weekend approaches, Robson’s mentorship promises to offer invaluable insights for young surfers, reinforcing the event’s role in fostering both talent and a vibrant surfing community.

From Racing Dreams to Mentoring Youth: The Unstoppable Journey of Drew De Boer

By Jeff Gibbs

In the high-stakes world of motorbike racing, where speed, talent, and determination separate champions from the rest, few stories rival the incredible journey of Drew De Boer. From promising young rider to test development guru, near-death survivor, and youth mentor, Drew’s path has been nothing short of extraordinary. Now at 36, he’s on the brink of an unbelievable comeback in the 2026 MotoAmerica season.

But getting here was anything but easy.

A Rising Star Falls

At just 17, Drew seemed destined for stardom, securing a coveted spot in the 125cc World Championship with Honda. It was a dream few dared to imagine—a shot at MotoGP glory. But as quickly as the opportunity came, it slipped through his fingers. Distractions and immaturity led to poor decisions that resulted in his contract being terminated before he ever raced at that level.

“The loss was crushing,” Drew reflects. “I thought I had it all figured out, but I didn’t realise how precious those moments were.”

Far from giving up, Drew pivoted. He spent years as a test and development rider for Suzuki, working behind the scenes to help shape future championship-winning bikes. His expertise and resilience played a pivotal role in Suzuki’s 2020 MotoGP world title win.

“I wasn’t in the spotlight, but I still felt a sense of purpose,” Drew says. “I kept telling myself that the dream wasn’t over. I just had to find another way.”

Mentorship and a Life-Changing Crash

In addition to his work with Suzuki, Drew began mentoring young riders, teaching them about the mental strength required to succeed in motorsport. But just as his life seemed to find balance, disaster struck in 2023 at Japan’s iconic Suzuka Circuit.

In a catastrophic crash, Drew suffered spinal and neck damage, a shattered pelvis, and broken legs. Clinically dead at the scene, he was revived and airlifted to the hospital. Doctors warned that he might never walk again.

“After the crash, I didn’t know if I’d ever be the same,” he admits. “It was a battle I didn’t think I could win.”

Through sheer determination and months of agonising rehabilitation, Drew defied the odds. In just 10 months, he was walking—and training for a racing comeback.

Drew De Boer

A Second Chance

In November 2024, Yamaha USA offered Drew a three-year contract to race in the 2026 MotoAmerica season. It was the second chance he had dreamed of.

“It felt like everything I’d worked for was finally coming together,” Drew says. “This time, it wasn’t just about me. It was about showing that no matter how many setbacks you face, you can always bounce back.”

A Role Model Beyond Racing

Off the track, Drew is equally passionate about mentoring youth in the NSW Northern Rivers through his work with HYAP and WAYS. He helps young people facing tough circumstances, guiding them away from negative influences like crime and toward better opportunities.

“Kids today face pressures we never had to deal with,” Drew says. “Many come from broken families and don’t have the support they need. My goal is to give them the tools and confidence to make better choices.”

Unstoppable Spirit

Drew’s journey is a powerful testament to resilience, mentorship, and the belief that it’s never too late to chase your dreams. Whether racing in MotoAmerica 2026 or inspiring the next generation, Drew De Boer proves that every setback can be a step toward an even greater comeback.

“Every day, I remind myself that the dream is still alive,” he says. “And I’m not done yet.”

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Harwood juggernaut rolls over Tucabia

By Tim Howard

After threatening multiple times this season, Harwood has broken through for its first outright win in the Clarence River Cricket Association first grade completion at the expense of Tucabia Copmanhurst.

Harwood were bowled out for 179 on day one of the clash with Tucabia at Ulmarra Showground, but had the hosts reeling at 5-25 at stumps.

On Saturday they followed through, rolling them for 54, which would have been a lot less except for a freewheeling 24no from Brad Chard batting at number 9.

Coming in 7-27, Chard a six and three fours in 29 balls, while the other batters scored just three.

Ordered to follow on, Tucabia fared worse, succumbing for 40 scored in 29.4 overs with only Bohdi Henwood, 13, reaching double figures.

Harwood opening bowler Troy Turner did the damage in Tucabia’s first innings, taking 5-21 from 12 overs.

Corey Lewis gave a hint of what was to come taking 4-1 in eight overs to wrap up the tail.

In the second innings Lewis was unplayable taking 5-9 in 9.4 overs.

Ben McMahon was also in good form, snaring 3-16 from eight overs.

Souths/Westlawn opening bowler Nathan Blanch about to deliver the ball. He took 5-74 against GDSC Easts at Ellem Oval on Saturday. Photo: Gary Nichols.

Harwood’s leading bowler for the season legspinner Jacob McMahon was only required to bowl six overs for the game and went wicketless.

In a remarkable feat at Ellem Oval South Services/Westlawn were able to withstand a punishing century from leading all rounder Shannon Connor, 102, to snare a win over GDSC Easts.

Defending a modest 156 Souths knew the wicket of Connor, who was 58no, was key to their chances of success.

But he was forced to play a lone hand and when he fell caught and bowled by Scott Avard the score was 6-133 with 24 more required to win.

But the Easts tail couldn’t get it done and the final four wickets fell for five runs.

Veteran seamer Nathan Blanch held his nerve during the Connor onslaught taking regular wickets with a stump to stump line.

His figures of 5-74 in 19 overs unchanged kept Souths/Westlawn in the game and stopped Connor from establishing a partnership that could have turned the game.

Avard picked up a couple of easier wickets to finish with 3-11 from 3.4 overs and skipper Dylan Cleaver bowled a long spell to take 2-51 from 13 overs.

Souths/Westlawn opening bowler Nathan Blanch about to deliver the ball. He took 5-74 against GDSC Easts at Ellem Oval on Saturday. Photo: Gary Nichols.

Connor, who took seven wickets on day one, had a massive game, but did not get the support he  needed to get a vital win for his team.

Sent back in for a second innings Souths Westlawn reached stumps at 1-67 scored in 24 overs, with opener Brenden Cotten not out on 47 including four boundaries and a six.

Lawrence held off a tenacious bid from Coutts Crossing to chase down their first innings total of 161 at Lower Fisher Turf.

The difference between the two teams was Ben Shaw, who took 7-30 from 13.5 overs to help dismiss Coutts for 123.

Coutts first drop Lewis Chevalley, 41, and opening bat Tim Tilse, 32, threatened for a while, but Shaw had Chevalley caught by skipper Nathan Ensbey and then took six more wickets as the Coutts resistance fell away.

With two games to play before the semi-finals, the top three, Harwood, Souths/Westlawn and Lawrence look set, but Coutts is under threat in fourth spot, just a point ahead of Tucabia.

On Saturday leaders Harwood host Souths/Westlawn at Harwood Oval, Tucabia and Coutts Crossing tussle at Lower Fisher Turf, Grafton and Lawrence and Easts meet at Ellem Oval.

In representative cricket CRCA will need Coffs Harbour at Ellem Oval, Grafton, on Sunday in the grand final of the North Coast Cricket inter district competition.

Selectors have chosen a team of Matt Dougherty (c), Beau Sevil, Shannon Connor, Tim Tilse, Lewis Chevalley, Rohan Hackett, Dylan Cleaver, Jamie Firth, Nathan Anderson, Dylan Lucas, Nathan Blanch, Dave Duroux. The game begins at 10am.

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