Despite the tragic shark attack that gripped beachgoers and residents of Sydney, activities for the three-day World Surf League Qualifying Series will still proceed as scheduled in Maroubra.
Maroubra will be the third of four stops of the elite surfing event. Happening from 4 to 6 March 2022, the World Surf League Qualifying Series will be broadcasting a live webcast of the qualifying competitions via Surfing NSW’s Facebook page.
A spokesperson for Surfing NSW said that the Australian Surf Life Saving UAV Service will be monitoring from the land, water, and air to ensure everyone’s safety. This comes after the one-day closure of Maroubra beach after the shark attack in Little Bay, some 10 kilometres away, on Wednesday, 16 Feb 2022.
The World Surf League Qualifying Series has been the highlight of the summer at Maroubra for more than five years, showcasing the up-and-comers and best surfers in the country at one of Sydney’s most iconic beaches, according to Randwick City Councillor Danny Said.
“It’s a great event for the athletes but also the perfect place for the whole community and surf fans to come to watch future stars of the sport,” Surfing NSW CEO Luke Madden said.
“Events like this send a clear message to the world that NSW is open and ready for visitors to enjoy in a COVID-safe way,” NSW Minister for Tourism and Sport Stuart Ayres said.
“Maroubra has such a rich history with competitive professional surfing. The WSL is stoked to be continuing the tradition and returning to Sydney’s eastern suburbs once again this March,” WSL APAC Tour Manager Ty Sorati said.
The World Surf League Qualifying Series kicked off at the Boomerang Beach in Pacific Palms on 23 Feb 2022. Follow the live scores on the official site.