Angst over Margaret River Pro set-up could trigger Shire of Augusta-Margaret River policy review

Public angst around the long set-up time for the Margaret River Pro is likely to trigger a review of the Shire of Augusta-Margaret River’s surfing events policy. Responding to complaints reported last week from the Margaret River Recreational Surfers group, shire chief executive Stephanie Addison-Brown said a four-day stand-down during Easter exacerbated the Pro’s long set-up and event organisers Surfing WA and the World Surf League were already urged to minimise disruptions. Although some of the carpark and the ocean itself remained open to the public this week — with wildcard trials held on Wednesday and the Pro kicking off this weekend — the current approval had one more year to run. The event has one more year to run under the current planning approval. “Should re-approval be sought, consultation will be held with the community, and the council will make an informed decision around the operating parameters for the event,” Ms Addison-Brown said. “It is likely that the shire will look to review the current policy on surfing events at that time.” Recreational Surfers president Campbell Chalmers last week blasted the shire for not enforcing the existing policy, and apart from criticism of the 35-day event window, questioned whether the Point was the right place for a proliferation of surfing events, especially for juniors. “Surfers Point is for everyone,” he said. “What feels like the whole summer, it has been a run from one event to another. “Maybe the shire staff that approve all of these event permits should come down to the beach more often and see how many locals and tourists are there all the time and how much pressure is already on the place.” WSL declined to comment on the impost on resident surfers, while Margaret River-Busselton Tourism Association co-chief executive Sharna Kearney said the Pro delivered strong benefits to the community “in terms of spend with local businesses, development opportunities for our youth, and media exposure that helps to build the region’s brand globally”. “The majority of our community are proud to host the Pro, and are prepared to accommodate minor disruptions, knowing the far-reaching benefits the event brings.” The Pro has caused contention at various times in its local history, with local surfers arcing up at permissions to use Gracetown’s North Point break as well. Fears were also allayed Margaret River could face the axe from the Australian circuit, with COVID and Australia’s superior preparedness instead making it a safe haven for the WSL’s championship tour.