More than 250 community members will gather and celebrate First Nations culture at the Woorangalook Victorian Surfing Titles this February.

The two-day gathering on February 10 and 11 at Urquhart Bluff will provide Indigenous people residing in Victoria with the opportunity to surf, be mentored and learn about their history on country.

The 26th edition of the event is anticipated to the biggest yet, with participation numbers slated to be up ten-fold from the inaugural event in 1998.

Surfing Victoria indigenous aquatics manager Jordie Campbell said the program helps to make surfing a viable option for Indigenous people.

“There are a lot of people excited to be coming back for the event, alongside a fair few new people who are just as pumped.

“Some participants are at the start of their journey learning about culture, and others are far further down. This event provides a space to inspire the next generation no matter wherever they are on it.”

While Mr Campbell said the event is mostly about participation, there will also be a competitive division.

Winners of the Open Men’s and Women’s will receive a wildcard entry into the 2024 Rip Curl Pro Trials at Bells Beach.

A mixing of the waters and a smoking ceremony by Wadawurrung Traditional Owner Corinna Eccles will open the event.

The event will be drug and alcohol-free.

More event information here.

Read Surf Coast Times story here.

Image credit: (L-R) Bell Gee, Surfing Victoria indigenous aquatics manager Jordie Campbell and Joe Murray. Photo: NATHAN RIVALLAND