Crews from the Far South Coast competed in the Interbranch Surf Boat Championships at Queenscliff last weekend. 

The competition was dominated by the host teams with Sydney’s Northern Beaches securing the crown ahead of Sydney and the Central coast. 

The Far South Coast narrowly trailed the Mid North Coast and the Hunter region, but outdid the Illawarra by a large margin. 

Almost ideal conditions greeted the competitors on Sunday for the one-day-competition that aims to bring together the surf boat community while also encouraging competitors to tune-up for the NSW and Australian Championships that are looming on the horizon.

In a sign of the growing strength of the sport 7 branches fielded teams across the event with male and female races conducted in the U19, U23, Open Reserve, and Open Divisions.

“It was just a really fun carnival and a great opportunity for everyone to have the chance to represent their Branch in a representative competition,” said Sydney Northern Beaches team manager Ryan Halangahu.

“What was great from our perspective is that the younger members of the team were able to mix with and get advice from the more experienced open crews. It was a chance for them to learn from people they don’t normally get a chance to mix with,” he said.

The event rounded off with a surf boat relay, which is always a highlight as it demonstrates a team’s overall strength.