We will admit we are biased, but what better place to have one of the world’s most famous surfing competitions – the Vissla Sydney Surf Pro running for nine days from 16-24 March at Manly Beach.
The World Surf League (WSL) Qualifying Series will feature some of the world’s best surfers - including 11 times WSL champion Kelly Slater and our very best local competitors - as they look to kick their competitive campaigns into gear prior to the start of the 2019 Championship Tour.
Northern Beaches Mayor Michael Regan said not only will the world’s surfing elite grace our shores, but there will be a number of activities for locals and visitors to take part in.
“Council as a major sponsor will see Manly once again host this hugely successful surfing event.
“Surfing and the surfing culture is engrained in the Northern Beaches cultural fabric. We’re known as the home of surfing in Australia with a proud history as a major surfing destination – dating back to 1908 when we played host to the first known body surfing contest and in 1964 hosting the first World Surfboard Riding Championships.
“We have 24 ocean beaches - more than any other council in Sydney which has seen a plethora of surfing legends bred right here on our doorstop including Snowy McAlister, Stuart Entwistle, Barton Lynch, Pam Burridge, Bernard ‘Midget’ Farrelly and seven times world champion Layne Beachley.
“This year we’ll be supporting more than 50 local competitors as they compete against some of the world’s best and up and coming professional surfers.
“With the competition being streamed live around the globe, we are on the world’s stage so it’s not only exciting for both local and international competitors on the water, but our community will be able to take part in a range of activities on shore.
"There's something for everyone to enjoy during the festival-like event, and not just for surfing folk. Our supporting activities are environmentally sustainable, family-friendly and support local businesses so make sure you come down and check them out,” Mayor Regan said.
Council will be running the following events:
Sand sculpting displays, workshops and competitions – Saturday 16 March
Displays - Watch four of Australia’s leading sand sculptors at work from 7am to 2pm
Workshops - Enjoy a free 30-minute workshop between 10am and 1.30pm
Competition - This year's theme is Keep our oceans plastic free. Enter as a team or individual
Sustainable Surf Board Shaping Workshop – Wednesday 20 March, 6.30 – 8pm
Learn about sustainability in the surf industry and what to look for in your next board at Ruby Lane Café. Cost: $10. Bookings essential
Youth Zone - Weekends – 16/17 & 23/24 March
Enjoy giant games, just chill or access a range of local youth services in one spot at the main event site
Surf Photography Exhibition - 16 - 24 March
Can't bear to be away from the beach and the water, never fear, we have five watery exhibits across the area for you to enjoy surf and underwater photography.
World Food Markets – 22 & 29 March, 5 – 9pm
Enjoy great international food and live music in Gilbert Park, Manly.
In addition to the events being run by Council, keep an eye on the VISSLA website for a full program of events and fringe activities.
Other local community and business activities/events
Visit the Hello Manly Visitor Information Centre for a full list of these things to do -
Surf Specials at various locations in Manly
Feeling Hungry? Manly businesses are waiting to fill you up. Loads of venues have surf specials for you to enjoy. Look out for the promotional posters in venues or visit the Vissla website.
Outdoor Cinema at Manly Cove - Friday 22nd March 2019, from 5:30pm
(film starts at Sunset)
Manly Markets – 16/17/23 March (Sydney Road site) and 24 March (Sydney Road and beachfront at South Steyne), 9am – 5pm
Unique open-air markets showcasing emerging items from designers, fashion and gifts.
Kombi Rally - Saturday 23rd March, 9.30am – 4pm, South Steyne Reserve
The surfers symbol of transportation, the classic kombis, come to Manly! Check them out as they convey from Dobroyd Head to Manly beach front.
Inflatable Boat Race - Sunday 17 March, 10.30am, Shelly Beach
Paddle yourself around the 1km course from Shelly Beach and back. You can even dress up or dress down, but you must wear something! The crazier the better! All proceeds go to charity.
Surfing NSW Chief Executive Officer Luke Madden said the event would bolster an already blockbuster schedule of surfing events in NSW.
“The Vissla Sydney Surf Pro truly is one of the jewels in the crown for NSW surfing. With the idyllic backdrop of Manly Beach and the playful waves we’ve seen in previous years, we predict that the 2019 event will be the perfect finale to another massive summer of surf events,” Mr Madden said.
The Vissla Sydney Surf Pro is proudly supported by Northern Beaches Council, the World Surf League, Surfing NSW and Destination NSW.