7 things you probably didn't know about surfing in Western Australia
Learn more about Western Australia’s rich surfing culture and the people that’ve put our state on the map.
If you ask the team at Go Surf, there’s no better place on earth to surf than in Western Australia. Of course, we may be a little bias. But there’s no disputing the fact that it has some of the best waves in the world plus a raw and unique surfing culture. In light of this, we’ve assembled 7 interesting things you probably didn’t know about surfing in Western Australia. Discover what they are by checking out the following article.
1. There are over 70 high-quality waves in the Margaret River region
The actual number of surfable spots within the Margaret River region varies depending on who you’re talking to. With 130 kilometres of coastline to check and all types of setups including reef, rock bottom and sand though, you’d be unlucky not to find a decent wave while you’re here. North Point, Redgate, Injidup beach and Boodjidup are just a few of the more popular breaks in the region.
2. The founder of the ASP (predecessor to the WSL) grew up in Perth
Many people are aware that before being renamed the World Surf League (WSL) in 2015, the championship tour was actually called the Association of Surfing Professionals (ASP). What many people don’t know is that the ASP was founded by former world-champion runner up Ian Cairns, who grew up in Perth’s western suburbs.
3. Western Australia is home to one of the longest running world tour events
Established in 1985, the Margaret River Pro is one of the longest running world tour events, with only a couple of other events surpassing it in terms of longevity. The Margaret River Pro is also the only event that can match Hawaii for the size and power of the waves. So it’s no wonder power surfers such as Tom Carroll, Mark Occhilupo, John Florence and Courtney Conlogue have always done well there.
4. One of Australia’s most dominant female surfers is from Albany
Winning 13 international surfing events and a runner up at another 13 occasions between 1983 and 2002, Jodie Cooper has more than earned her reputation as one of the most dominant female surfers in the world. The fact she’s Albany born and bred also means that surfers in Western Australia can proudly claim her as one of their own.
5. Tim Winton’s coming of age surf novel “Breath” is set in a fictional town in Western Australia
“Breath” is Tim Winton’s seminal novel about two kids growing up in and surfing around the fictional town of Angelus in Western Australia. Taking place during the 1970s, “Breath” is somewhat inspired by Winton’s own love for the ocean and his upbringing in the Perth suburb of Karrinyup.
6. There’s an official Western Australian surfing museum located in Yallingup
Located at Aravina Estate near Yallingup, the Western Australian Surf Gallery stands as a celebration of surfing in Western Australia. Complete with trophies, boardshorts, iconic photos and famous surfboards plus hundreds of other items donated by various collectors from around the state.
7. Perth is one of the best learn to surf destinations in the world
With white sand beaches, crystal clear water and a fantastic year-round climate, Perth is hands down one of the best places to learn to surf in the world. The most awesome thing about learning to surf here though? The team at Go Surf Perth have access to beginner friendly surf spots such as Scarborough and Brighton beach. Both of which offer perfect waves for learners. Experience what it’s like to stand up on your very first wave in such an incredible destination by contacting us today.