Global Wave Conference Coming To The Gold Coast In 2020

The Gold Coast World Surfing Reserve has won the rights to host the sixth Biannual Global Wave Conference in 2020, from February 10 to 15 in Coolangatta.

Gold Coast World Surfing Reserve chairman, Andrew McKinnon, said the conference provides an opportunity to shine a light on the growing threats to waves and surfing habitats around the world.

“We will look at ways to make our coastal environments more sustainable,” Mr McKinnon said.

“We want to hear from our leaders in the surfing and ocean conservation community about how we can better protect our waves, oceans, beaches, marine ecosystems and the sport of surfing.

“We will talk about the recycling of surfing products, removal of plastics and ways of making our oceans safer, healthier and cleaner for future generations.

“We expect more than 400 delegates to attend including environmental and social scientists, world surfing legends, conservationists and representatives from the surfing industry,” he said.

Queensland Minister for Sport, Mick de Brenni, said the Queensland Government supports the surfing community on the Gold Coast, announcing a $10,000 investment to support the 2020 conference.

“The Queensland Government strongly supports the surfing community and is proud to have provided $10,000 investment to support the 2020 Global Wave Conference that will also host a range of fun and healthy activities,” Mr de Brenni said.

“Residents of Coolangatta and those who we expect to travel from far and wide for this event can take part in ‘get fit’ classes, beach walks, surfing and stand-up paddle boarding sessions, yoga, pilates and qigong in the park.

“There will also be a Saturday sports event involving representatives from surf lifesaving and board riding clubs, indigenous and adaptive surfers and emergency services groups.

“This adds to a full program which already includes the three-day conference and a range of extra events including a surfing expo, workshops, photo and painting exhibition, movie and music festivals,” he said.

This marks the first time the conference will be held in Australia, adding to the recognition of the Gold Coast being named the eighth World Surfing Reserve in 2016.

“Coolangatta is a fitting location for the Global Wave Conference as the Gold Coast is home to the eighth World Surfing Reserve, a majestic stretch of ocean from Snapper Rocks to Burleigh,” Mr de Brenni said.