SURFERS will next week gather to pay tribute to their past peers as part of the 33rd Bird Rock Memorial Surf Classic.
The Hastings Valley has always been involved in the beach and surf culture.
It started as early as the 1900s, with reports of some taking out surf craft and riding waves off the Port Macquarie bar.
Port Macquarie and Camden Haven boardriders have always been known as great surfers that held their own in competition and free surfing.
After well-known young surfer Mark Edwards lost his life, a contest was dedicated to him and that contest has progressed into what it is today.
The Bird Rock Memorial Surf Classic will be held next week, with the final to be held on Sunday, 19 May.
Many of the original surfers from the early days of the classic will be in town for the event.
While it’s a serious competition, it’s used as a tribute to all local surfers.
Last year’s classic was won by Port Macquarie legend Mick Campbell, who dedicated the win to his brother Glen, who died earlier that year.
Entries for this year’s Bird Rock Memorial Surf Classic close next Thursday.
