Lorne to welcome Great Ocean Road Women's Surf Festival

When Shaakira Ariffin’s mum bought her a surfboard for Christmas more than 15 years ago, she didn’t realise it would be the gift that keeps on giving.

The present sparked a passion for surfing that led to Shaakira founding Surf Coast Women’s Boardriders.

Shaakira is excited to work with Surfing Victoria to help deliver the first edition of The Great Ocean Road Women’s Surf Festival in Lorne, in partnership with Surf Coast Shire Council. The festival, to be held 7 and 8 December, is thanks to a Play Well Participation Grant from the Australian Sports Commission.

“We have a great surfing culture here on the Surf Coast,” Shaakira said. “With our region being at the forefront of the surfing industry, it makes perfect sense to encourage women and girls to give surfing a go.”

The all-inclusive women’s festival will feature learn-to-surf lessons, sunrise yoga, a team event, individual longboard competition, podcast recordings, movie screenings and guest speakers.

Shaakira said the event will provide a great opportunity for females to catch their first wave.

“Surfing is all about growth,” she said. “It’s so rewarding, physically and mentally. Most importantly, it’s about having fun.”

Shaakira welcomes newcomers to Surf Coast Women’s Boardriders.

“I started the club after I moved to Torquay because I wanted to connect with women who surf, and to be involved in the community,” she said.

“It’s a place where women can come together socially and share their love for the ocean. We also have events, coaching, competition and ocean awareness initiatives.”

Stay up-to-date with Surf Coast Events, including the surf festival:
@SurfCoastEvents

Image: Surf Coast Women's Boardriders founder Shaakira Ariffin.