The highly-anticipated Surf Coast summer of events is underway, and is eager to attract participants of all ages and abilities.

Summer on the Surf Coast will be sizzling thanks to community-driven events that have helped put the region on the map as an events destination. From the iconic Lorne Powercor Pier to Pub (8 January) and other Surf Life Saving Club-run events, into the Hinterland for the Deans Marsh Sheep Dog Trials (21-23 January) to popular local markets and the Icehouse-headlined By The C concert in Torquay (12 February) – it’s time to ‘get back amongst it’.

Passionate community groups have worked tirelessly over the past 18 months, enduring the unpredictability of COVID-19 restrictions, which have thankfully eased in time, to deliver an action-packed calendar.
Surf Coast Shire Mayor Libby Stapleton is delighted that the Surf Coast is in a position to be showcased to a wider audience in the warmer months.

“Moving to the final COVID-safe stage of the state government’s roadmap in mid-November has been ideal, as it’s given event organisers and patrons the green light to get excited about what the next few months hold. We’ve already seen an influx of people on recent weekends, so we are expecting a bumper visitor season,” she said.

The Mayor encouraged residents and visitors to check out the new Surf Coast Events website – surfcoastevents.com.au – to see the huge range of events on offer.

“The website is a one-stop-shop to plan your outings and activities,” she said. “Whether you’re a seasoned local who has always called the Surf Coast home, or a holidaymaker who’s grateful to be on the road again after a challenging year – you will be able to find an event that suits you.”

The suite of Surf Life Saving Club events underpin summer on the Surf Coast. Being on the start line of these races has become a much-loved tradition for thousands of people, who kick off their New Year with a winning combination of sun, sand, surf and sweat.

The SLSC events are major annual fundraisers that enable the clubs to continue to support their local communities and keep them safe by providing the vital lifesaving service.

Lorne Pier to Pub Race Director John Takac said the countdown to the famous event is extra special, given the 2021 event was virtual-only.

“The club is rapt that the 2022 Powercor Pier to Pub Swim and Mountain to Surf Run events are going to bring people together in-person and do what they do best – transform the town,” he said.

“Importantly, all competitors – whether you’re a veteran or a first-timer – will be part of a fundraiser that helps the Surf Life Saving Club patrol the Lorne beach and keep it safe.”

Mayor Stapleton said Council was looking forward to all upcoming events – from the major ones to the boutique.

“An important part of events is providing opportunities for our community to connect, which is so important now for us all,” she said.

“As a Council we’ve also set a goal to support tourism and events that encourage people to stay longer in the Surf Coast Shire and appreciate and care for this place. We want visitors to linger and enjoy their experiences over time, rather than rushing. I hope we’re going to see some of that ‘slow tourism’ this month and into the future, which can be attributed to our strong events calendar.”

The four-page Summer Event Guide in this edition of the Surf Coast Times will become a handy edition to your fridge or pin-up board. Be sure to pull it out and refer to it when you’re looking for an event to get amongst and have some fun.