North Coast junior surfers shine at regional titles

EMERALD Beach turned on some great autumn conditions last weekend as nearly 50 of the region’s best junior surfers competed for coveted spots at the upcoming NSW State Titles.

The 2026 North Coast Junior Regional Titles brought together talented groms from across the stretch of coastline between Red Rock and Crescent Head, transforming the popular break into a stage for some of the most exciting junior surfers.

Consistent two‑foot conditions rolled through all day, occasionally pulsing into clean three‑foot sets that gave competitors the canvas they needed to showcase speed, control, and flair.

Families and spectators cheered on young surfers from Under 12 right through to Under 18 divisions, both male and female.

North Coast Regional Director for Surfing NSW, Dan Heather, praised the high standard of surfing and the professionalism of the event.

“The talent on display this year was outstanding, and every year seems to keep progressing,” he said.

“Having qualified judges overseen by former World Surf League Head Judge Richie Porta really elevates the competition.

“It ensures every wave is scored fairly and encourages the kids to push their performance to the next level.”

Heather also acknowledged the vital role played by the local community.

“A huge thanks goes to Woolgoolga Boardriders, who helped coordinate the event alongside Surfing NSW, their support keeps grassroots surfing thriving in our region.”

The finals across all divisions delivered standout performances.

Avalon Vowels, winner of the Under 18 Female division, posted the highest heat total of the finals with a commanding 17 points, built from two excellent 8.5‑point rides.

Her powerful, precise rail surfing set a benchmark that impressed both judges and onlookers.

In the Under 14 Boys final, Koa Fenix Quandt Messer earned the highest single‑wave score, an impressive 8.67, thanks to a fast, critical opening section and a well‑executed finish that brought the beach to its feet.

Other champions across the divisions included a mix of rising stars and familiar names, all of whom will now move on to represent the North Coast at state level:

2026 North Coast Junior Regional Titles – Division Winners

U/18 Female: Avalon Vowels

U/18 Male: Rio Luther Barr

U/16 Female: Lyla Freudenstein

U/16 Male: Hamish Harrigan

U/14 Female: Matilda Harrigan

U/14 Male: Koa Fenix Quandt Messer

U/12 Female: Hazel Ralston

U/12 Male: Jimmy McGuiggan

As the swell mellowed into the afternoon and the final trophies were handed out, families and supporters celebrated another successful event that not only highlighted emerging talent but also reinforced the strength of the North Coast’s surfing culture.

With state qualification now secured for the top performers, all eyes will turn to the NSW State Titles which will run in Coffs Harbour in May, where many of these young surfers will aim to continue their momentum and chase future professional dreams.