Coolangatta Gold to Launch Surf Sports Season with New Format and Expanded Athlete Line-Up

The Shaw and Partners Coolangatta Gold will return to the Gold Coast on 18–19 October 2025 with a refreshed format and broader participation, marking the official start of Australia’s national surf sports season.

Following the event’s 40th anniversary in 2024, organisers have announced a series of changes aimed at increasing participation and spectator engagement. For the first time, all athletes from the Shaw and Partners Iron Series will compete in the event, with Series points now on offer alongside prize money.

The 2025 race will also feature a shorter, modified course to make the competition more accessible to a wider range of athletes. The start and finish line will remain at Coolangatta Beach.

Shaw and Partners Financial Services has confirmed its ongoing support for the event, renewing its naming rights sponsorship through to 2027. This commitment brings the company’s total investment in surf sports to more than $2 million over the next three years.

Surf Life Saving Australia CEO Adam Weir said the changes reflect a broader strategy to evolve the event and expand its reach. “The Coolangatta Gold is a hallmark event on our national surf sports calendar. These adjustments are aimed at opening up the field and strengthening the sport at all levels,” Weir said.

Shaw and Partners CEO Earl Evans said the firm is focused on helping grow surf sports nationally. “The 2025 Coolangatta Gold promises to be one of the biggest yet. We’re proud to continue supporting Surf Life Saving Australia and look forward to seeing the Iron Series athletes in action,” Evans said.

Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate welcomed the changes, noting the value of the event to both competitors and the broader tourism economy. “The new format offers better spectator access and will showcase some of Australia’s top surf athletes. It’s a great outcome for the city and for the sport,” he said.

The 2025 Shaw and Partners Coolangatta Gold is supported by the Queensland Government through Tourism and Events Queensland and Experience Gold Coast. Full race formats and the event schedule will be announced in the coming weeks.

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