Cape Naturaliste Pro returning to Yallingup

September 28, 2024 BY

South West surfer Macklin Flynn surfs in the Peel Pro Junior in 2022. Picture via Surfing WA/Justin Majeks.

The WA Pro Surf Series will return with two back-to-back WSL-sanctioned events next month.

The series will kick off in Mandurah with the Peel Pro Junior, from October 12-14, followed by the Cape Naturaliste Pro in Yallingup from October 17-20, showcasing surfing talent of athletes from the Australasian region.

The series is supported by Surfing WA, the World Surf League, the City of Mandurah, Visit Mandurah, the City of Busselton and the WA Government through the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries, Tourism Western Australia and Royalties for Regions.

“Tourism is integral to our government’s plan to drive economic growth, create jobs, and promote business, particularly in regional areas,” Tourism Minister Rita Saffioti said.

“By supporting events like the WA Pro Surf Series, we aim to attract visitors and encourage them to explore more of what our state has to offer.”

The Peel Pro Junior will be one of the final events of the WSL APAC region, determining the surfers who will qualify for the WSL Junior Championships in 2025.

The action then moves south to Yallingup for the Cape Naturaliste Pro, a QS1000 event that has in past years seen big name surfers take on the region’s world-class waves.

“We are proud to again play host to this world-class event,” City of Busselton Mayor Phill Cronin said.

“I can’t think of a better way to showcase Yallingup and its breathtaking views with some of the best surf breaks in the region, and thank WSL for the opportunity.

“We are also grateful for the boost to our local economy and the chance to highlight our incredible local surfing talent.”

The series has become a stepping stone for many of the Australia’s best young surfers, with Morgan Cibilic (Newcastle, NSW), Liam O’Brien (Burleigh Heads, QLD), Mikey McDonagh (Lennox Head, NSW), Lennox Chell (Avova, NSW) and Taj Stokes (Sunshine Coast, QLD), all claiming victory in the past.

Locals Mia McCarthy (Margaret River, WA) and Claire Bevilacqua (Yallingup, WA) are also former champions in the women’s events.

“We’re thrilled to be returning to Western Australia this year,” WSL APAC Tour Manager Ty Sorati said.

“These events are pivotal in shaping the future of surfing talent, offering young athletes a platform to showcase their skills and gain invaluable experience.

“It’s also a fantastic opportunity for WA surfers to compete on their home turf.”

Surfing WA Events Manager Justin Majeks highlighted the significance of the series.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for WA surfers to compete in their home state against top-level opposition,” he said. “We’re eager to showcase WA’s incredible waves and the unique charm of our coastal communities through these events.”