The weekend of July 13 and 14, 2024 marked an unforgettable moment for Australian surfers. Whether you are an amateur or professional, every corner of the Australian continental coast offered exceptional conditions. From the East Coast with its renowned points like Snapper Rocks, to the lesser-known reefs of the West, all surf spots experienced remarkable waves. Let's look back at what made this weekend a memory etched in minds!
Ideal conditions on the East Coast
Queensland: the hidden treasure of surfers
On the east coast of Australia, from Queensland to New South Wales, the waves were perfectly calibrated. Queensland, although sometimes overshadowed by the fame of other places, offered majestic waves throughout the weekend. From Stradbroke Island to Yamba, surfers were able to enjoy an ideal swell, big enough to highlight the best spots but not too powerful to be unmanageable on lesser-known beaches.
Photo: Andrew Shield
New South Wales: the magic of Maroubra and Snapper Rocks
In South Maroubra, Sunday was a perfect day where all conditions came together to offer splendid waves. The angles, the energy, and the wind created perfect alignments allowing local surfers to showcase their talents. As for Snapper Rocks, although a capricious wind somewhat disturbed the early morning, it gave way to memorable sessions with impressive sets of waves as soon as the wind calmed. Those who traveled from Snapper to the spots further south because of the morning crowd also found their happiness with perfectly sculpted waves.
Photo: Bill Morris
Magical moments thanks to a flawless forecast
How the conditions aligned
The forecast for this exceptional swell was not simply a matter of chance. Specialist meteorologists noted that the direction, energy, and wind would converge to create an unforgettable weekend. This type of notable swell is often associated with images of a few adventurous surfers braving gigantic waves under the curious gaze of many spectators on the beach. But that weekend, everyone was invited to join the celebration and many surfers experienced the waves of their lives.
Photo: Andrew Shield
Beyond the top spots: Australia in a new light
Angourie: the raw power of the waves
Angourie, Saturday morning, low tide revealed waves even bigger than the day before. This iconic spot for connoisseurs attracted a large number of local surfers, each seeking to challenge these formidable walls of water. The strength of the waves combined with a slight incoming south direction offered a magnificent spectacle and extreme sensations for those who dared to venture out.
This weekend allowed many Australians to rediscover the pure joys of surfing in ideal conditions. Each region of the mainland coast had its share of surprises and every surfer their unforgettable memories. From famous surfing celebrities to passionate amateurs, all experienced moments filled with personal records and discoveries. A living testimony to the diversity and elusive beauty of the Australian coasts!
Photo: Bill Morris
Photo credits by Bill Morris and Andrew Shield
