The main event on the surf lifesaving calendar will return to the beaches of the Sunshine Coast in 2027.
Surf Life Saving Australia has confirmed that the Australian Surf Life Saving Championships will be held at Maroochydore, Alexandra Headland and Mooloolaba, from April 10-18.
Affectionally known as The Aussies, the carnival is one of the largest participation events in the southern hemisphere.
Next year’s event is expected to attract more than 7000 surf life saving club members, plus their supporters, to deliver a major tourism and economic boost to the region.
The championships were last held on the Sunshine Coast, at the same beaches, in 2024.
The announcement follows the end of this year’s edition, which wrapped up on Sunday after nine days of competition on the Gold Coast, where Maroochydore club member Tiarnee Massie starred on the final day.
Surf Life Saving Australia CEO Adam Weir said the Sunshine Coast was a great location for the carnival.
“The Aussies is the pinnacle event on the surf lifesaving calendar, bringing together members from across the country, and we’re pleased to see it return to the Sunshine Coast in 2027,” he said.
“The region has a proud history, quality beaches, and a community that embraces this event wholeheartedly. The Sunshine Coast consistently demonstrates its ability to host major events, delivering world‑class competition and an unforgettable experience for competitors and supporters.
“We’re grateful for the support of Tourism and Events Queensland and Sunshine Coast Council, whose efforts have been instrumental in securing the event’s return. We also extend our thanks to our host clubs at Maroochydore, Alexandra Headland and Mooloolaba.
“Each year, the championships attract thousands of competitors, officials, volunteers and spectators, generating significant economic and tourism benefits, and we’re looking forward to being back on the Sunshine Coast next year.”
Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli looked forward to the carnival.
“Surf lifesaving is part of our coastal DNA, and welcoming the Aussies back to our beaches is a chance to celebrate the people, places and values that make this movement so special,” she said.
“Our local clubs have delivered an outstanding showing throughout this year’s championships, continuing a tradition of commitment, teamwork and high performance that the Sunshine Coast is known for.
“Looking ahead to 2027, it’s incredibly exciting to know our athletes, volunteers and supporters will be on home sand in force, with a strong Sunshine Coast contingent expected to compete in front of their community as we welcome the nation’s finest back to our coastline.
“This event brings together thousands of competitors, families and supporters from across the country, and it does so in a way that reflects who we are as a community: active, inclusive and deeply connected to the ocean.
“We look forward to working closely with Surf Life Saving Australia to deliver a memorable championship that showcases our world class coastline, supports our local economy and, most importantly, recognises the extraordinary volunteers who keep our beaches safe.”
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Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said it was a coup for the state to host the championships again.
“Hosting major events like the Aussies cements Queensland’s reputation as a sporting events capital, and we’re excited to see the event head to the Sunshine Coast next year,” he said.
“The Aussies deliver significant tourism and economic benefits, while showcasing Queensland’s beaches and surf lifesaving culture to competitors and supporters nationwide.”
