THE BURLEIGH Boardriders claimed victory at the Queensland leg of the Australian Boardriders Battle (ABB) regional series in a thrilling showdown at Coolum Beach on Saturday, October 10.

The fourth stop of the series brought together 16 of the state’s premier clubs for the one-day qualifier, each chasing a place in the 2027 NRMA Insurance ABB Grand Final.

From rising juniors to seasoned Championship Tour surfers, the field showcased Queensland’s deep talent pool as Coolum Beach served up fun 2–3-foot shorebreak waves.

Local club Coolum Boardriders was one of eight clubs to qualify for the grand final, with a spokesperson for the club saying they were “stoked” with the result.

“You’ve done it again, Coolum! Well done team for making it into the Australian Boardriders Battle Grand Final next March at Burleigh Heads.

“Big Thanks to all the CBC Members and community who came down to support and cheer on our surfers today! As always, thanks to Surfing Australia and Surfing Queensland for another epic event.”

Coolum Boardriders Club qualifying surfers on the day were Jye Pegg, Hayden Danswan, Brisa Canina, Gabe Ribeiro and Jimi Wallace.

Three-time World Champion Mick Fanning also competed at the event, proudly representing Kirra Surfriders Club and expressing gratitude to the club that supported him throughout his early surfing years.

“I remember being a kid… and going down for the surf league, doing road trips, you know, it was so fun. They’ve supported me not only through surfing but through life as well.”

Surfing Queensland Contest Director, Chris Rogers, said the event highlighted the vital role boardrider clubs play in surfing culture.

“We love supporting our boardriders clubs and this event is a special one for us because it brings all the clubs together and puts the focus on team spirit. It’s been great working alongside Surfing Australia to make this happen.”

Burleigh Boardriders set the pace early through Rico Haybittle, who linked a well-timed aerial into a couple of clean turns to post an impressive 8.17 and put his club in a strong position. Snapper Rocks fought back with a series of solid scores, while Kawana remained firmly in contention as the final unfolded.

In the closing stages, Haybittle delivered a crucial 5.79 to help seal the win for Burleigh Boardriders and secure the Queensland Regional Title.

Queensland qualifying boardrider clubs: 
The top eight clubs from the qualifier have now earned their place at the 2027 NRMA Insurance ABB Grand Final, set to return to Burleigh Heads on March 13-14, 2027.

Burleigh Boardriders
Kawana Boardriders Club
Snapper Rocks Surfriders Club
Kirra Surfriders Club
North End Boardriders Club
Noosa Boardriders Club
Coolum Boardriders Club
North Shore Boardriders Club

About the Australian Boardriders Battle 
The Australian Boardriders Battle is Australia’s biggest grassroots surfing series, involving over 80 boardrider clubs in eight state qualifying rounds before culminating in the epic Grand Final showdown.

The event has been instrumental in strengthening club culture, fostering future champions, and celebrating Australia’s deep connection with surfing.