Northern Beaches is set for global media exposure after being chosen to host surfing’s premier competition, the World Surf League (WSL) championship tour event in April.

Some of the world’s best surfers will descend on North Narrabeen Beach to compete in the tour event that is expected to draw a television audience of millions and WSL forecast the event will inject over $10 million into the local economy.

Northern Beaches Council and the State Government will co-sponsor the event for elite athletes who have a huge fan following in the surfing world.

Mayor Michael Regan said landing the event from 16-26 April was a coup for the Beaches, giving the community something to look forward to after a very challenging year.

“This is a huge opportunity to showcase the Northern Beaches on the world stage for ten days,” Mayor Regan said.

“The WSL is a perfect fit with the lifestyle we are very proud of in our coastal community.

“We welcome this opportunity and the promise of much-needed economic activity and jobs for our local businesses. It will be a great boost to the morale of the local community who were hit hard by the COVID-induced three-week lockdown at Christmas.

“With surfing to make its Olympic debut in Tokyo this year, there will be additional interest on the tussle at this elite level of the sport.”

Over 50 professional surfers will compete for a prize purse of over $1 million, including 11-time world champion Kelly Slater (USA), John John Florence (USA), Gabriel Medina (Brazil), 4-time world champion Carissa Moore (USA) and our own Australian stars, Stephanie Gilmore, Tyler Wright, Sally Fitzgibbons, Owen Wright and Julian Wilson.

An entourage of up to 350 media representatives, event support staff and officials will accompany the athletes, providing a much-needed fillip to the local hospitality sector.

“We are very excited to be hosting this marquee event that will lift the Beaches’ profile as a visitor destination, grow the economy and foster pride in the community,” Mayor Regan said.