Newcastle is set to make waves on the world stage, with the Minns Labor Government today announcing that a World Surf League (WSL) Challenger Series event will headline Newcastle Surfest in 2027.
Newcastle Surfest, Australia’s oldest and largest surfing festival, was elevated to the Challenger Series for the first time this year placing Newcastle firmly on the international surfing map.
With NSW Government support through Destination NSW now secured for 2027, anticipation is building as the city strengthens its reputation as a world-class surfing destination.
Today’s announcement reflects the Minns Labor Government’s commitment to turbo-charging the visitor economy and growing visitor expenditure from $52 billion to $91 billion by 2035.
In order to achieve this goal 48 per cent of expenditure needs to come from our regions, this means investing in regional events such as Surfest and capitalising on new tourism infrastructure, such as Newcastle Airport’s new international terminal, providing direct access for international athletes, media and fans from all over the world to the Hunter.
In 2026, Newcastle Surfest will celebrate its 40th anniversary – representing one of the longest-running professional surfing competitions in the world. The tournament features grassroots, amateur and elite contests across Newcastle and the Hunter region.
Now headlined by the WSL Challenger Series event, more than 80 elite male surfers and 48 elite female surfers will compete for a coveted spot on the WSL Championship Tour.
The event is expected to draw thousands of visitors, from elite surfers to passionate fans, and reach a global broadcast audience of more than 3 million viewers. It will showcase Newcastle’s rich surfing heritage and highlight one of Australia’s most picturesque coastal cities.
Hosting the 2027 Newcastle Surfest WSL Challenger Series aligns with a key pillar of the NSW Visitor Economy Strategy 2035 delivering a dynamic, nation-leading calendar of major events that drives visitation and supports the jobs and businesses that rely on year-round tourism.
NSW Premier Chris Minns said:
“Newcastle has some of the best beaches in New South Wales, yet another reason why it is a must-visit destination.
“Securing this event for 2027 reinforces the city’s standing as an international surfing hub and extends an open invitation for visitors to experience everything the coastal city has to offer.”
Minister for Jobs and Tourism Steve Kamper said:
“Surfest is a staple on the nation’s sporting calendar and has grown into a standout event on the international circuit. Continuing this wave of momentum into 2027 will invite thousands of visitors to the region, boost local businesses and shine a spotlight on the talent and spirit of Newcastle’s incredible surfing community.”
Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley said:
“Surfest is part of Newcastle’s DNA and securing the event for 2027 is a great win for our community. It means more visitors, more business for our local shops and more jobs for people right across the Hunter.
“We’re continuing to build the Hunter into a place people want to visit again and again – showcasing our great waves, stunning scenery, laid-back lifestyle and strong sense of community that make this region so special.”
Member for Newcastle, Tim Crakanthorp said:
“Surfest is part of Newcastle’s soul. It brings our community together, celebrates our beautiful coastline and showcases the passion and talent of our local surf scene.”
“Bringing the Challenger Series to Surfest gave the event a massive boost in audience and showcased Newcastle as a world-class surfing destination. I am stoked that the Minns Labor Government will be continuing to support Surfest into 2027.”
Jeremy Bath, CEO City of Newcastle said:
“Many people would have forgotten that when Surfest started in 1985, it was with City of Newcastle on board as the foundation sponsor. Forty years later and Council is still supporting surfing, this time via the 2026 and 2027 WSL Challenger Series events. Surfing builds on
our reputation as a major events destination in what is an increasingly highly competitive market for the tourist dollar.”
Andrew Stark, APAC President World Surf League said:
“Newcastle Surfest has a long and rich history, and WSL is extremely proud to partner with the NSW Government and Newcastle City to ensure the Newcastle Surfest event continues as an International WSL Challenger Series event into 2027.
“We are warmly welcomed to the Newcastle region each year, and we look forward to continuing to build on the event’s success, showcasing the world’s best surfers, while also shining a light on Newcastle to the world. “