End of Season Winter Wrap-UpFrom the desk of PIBC Secretary, Emily Scott As winter settles in and we look back on a jam-packed season of waves, stoke and community, I’m filled with pride for what’s been an incredible year at Phillip Island Boardriders Club. It all kicked off in classic style with the season-opening Tag Team event at Flynns, sick waves and captain’s hats and all, thanks to our President Jake Eisen. That day set the tone for a season full of fun, passion, progression and connection. We ran five epic Aggregate Surf Comps in great conditions, showcasing talent across all divisions, from cadets having a red-hot crack, to our seasoned Legends still showing how it's done. Huge thanks to Club Captain Ash Easton for running the show. Not to forget Keith Vincent (Carve Media) for the filming, and Bobby for the post-comp chillis, note to self: stock more milk in the clubhouse cupboard! Our longboard crew enjoyed four comps filled with nose-riding, fancy footwork and cruisy vibes. The Cat Bay Classic once again brought longboarders from across the state together, first at Shelley’s, then at Flynns. Big props to Zev Landes for the amazing artwork and to Nala Taylor for smashing it as Longboard Coordinator. The grom energy was off the charts with five Supergroms events lighting up Smiths Beach. Over 100 frothing young surfers hit the waves, guided by fearless Supergroms Coordinator and Treasurer Mel Wright and supported by Alisha Hill and Jasmine Keogh. The Judged Supergroms Comp gave our young surfers a massive confidence boost and a taste of competitive surfing. Our Girls Can Shred Program saw 30 local girls improve their surfing skills with coaching, yoga and a smoothstar sesh. Thanks to Jo Stubbs for securing the grant (and so much more) and a small shoutout to myself for organising the program. Our Youth Development Program, run by Tim Anagnostou, delivered a series of surf coaching programs known as Sunday Sessions, helping shape the next generation of PIBC surfers. Our clubhouse is kept in good nick, ready for us to enjoy thanks to our Clubhouse Manager Natalie Van Der Hayden. At the clubhouse we saw Santa on a fire truck at our Christmas party, many of us enjoy Yoga with Dom and the new Surf Swap Meet event (brought together thanks to our Vice President Geoff Russell), as well as a host of community and surf industry gatherings. We also made time for the fun stuff, the always-entertaining PIBC Twin Fin Event, and our Big Day Out to URBNSURF (the chaotic bus ride was hilarious). Sadly, the season saw the loss of two valued members of our community. As I look back on the PIBC ‘family’ photos from the year (see above), I hope every member feels the strength of our PIBC family. If you're doing it tough, please reach out. We are here for each other both in and out of the water. It’s clear that this club even though the core is surfing, is about so much more. To our incredible committee; your time, energy and passion never go unnoticed. And to all of our generous sponsors, thank you for backing us. You've helped us deliver a truly memorable season. See you all in the surf this winter.
With stoke and gratitude,
Emily Scott
|
