World’s best surfers will return to the Shire

Pro set to delight fans and deliver significant benefits to our local community

The world’s best surfers will return to the Shire next week, with the Western Australia Margaret River Pro set to delight fans and deliver significant benefits to our local community.

As one of only three Australian stops on the World Surf League (WSL) Championship Tour, the event will see elite surfers compete at Margaret River’s iconic Main Break and The Box over an 11-day window from 16–26 April.

Shire President Julia Jean-Rice said while the Margaret River Pro is always a highlight on the local event calendar, it represents much more than an elite competition.

“Surfing is part of our local identity, and hosting this world-class event is something our whole community is proud of,” she said.

“But the Pro is about so much more than waves. It brings people together and delivers real social and economic benefits for our Shire by supporting local businesses and community groups and providing incredible opportunities for our young people.”

With a strong focus on local procurement and sustainable event delivery, the event contributes significantly to the regional economy, generating millions in expenditure and attracting thousands of visitors to the region

“At the event site, around 80 per cent of food vendors and many contractors are sourced locally. This not only strengthens the economic benefits for the community, it also means you can grab a coffee or a bite to eat from one of your favourite local food vans while you enjoy the action,” she said.

The Shire President said the Pro also plays an important role in inspiring the next generation of surfers.

“Possibly the best part of the Pro is how it inspires the young people in our community - especially when they see homegrown talent like Jack Robinson competing against the world’s best at our local breaks,” President Jean-Rice said.

“There are also amazing opportunities for local groms to share the lineup with their surfing heroes as part of the WSL Rising Tide program. Imagine paddling out at Main Break with one of your surfing heroes - it’s an experience that creates memories they’ll never forget.”

A series of satellite events are also scheduled around the Pro, including the Margaret River Youth Fest, which will showcase local music talent and provide additional community engagement opportunities. Additionally, WSL is hosting a special Coastal Care Forum with Nature Conservation which aims shine a spotlight on our local coastline and how to care for it in the future. 

WSL APAC President Andrew Stark said Margaret River is a special place for many on the tour and noted the 2026 Championship Tour will feature a refreshed competition format.

“This year, we have expanded the women’s field from 18 to 24 competitors and removed the non-elimination round,” said Stark. 

“It’s also the 50th Year of the World Tour and Margaret River continues to play a proud role in that legacy. It really is a special place, and we are grateful to be able to come here and share it with the community.”

For information about access to Surfers Point and the Rivermouth, visit:
www.amrshire.wa.gov.au/recreation-leisure/events-and-workshops/western-australia-margaret-river-pro-2026

Follow @WSL on social media or download the WSL app to receive live updates on whether the event is called “ON”, “OFF”, or “ON HOLD” for the day.