Supporting Surfing’s Rising Stars: Shred Fest 2023

Yallingup hosted the ‘cream of the crop’ junior surfers over the weekend at the 2023 Shred Fest. Junior surfers battled it out over three days for the ultimate title of Shred Lord.  

Over 100 surfers from Western Australia, South Australia, New South Wales and Queensland competed in U/12, U/14, U/16 and U/18 comps in both girl and boy divisions.  

While Shred Fest provides an opportunity for local youth surfers to have a go, it’s also an important date in the surfing calendar for surfers looking to make it big. Shred Fest is a 5500 national point surf comp event, which means it’s an important spring board for young surfers, many of whom have their own sponsors supporting them. Competing in Shred Fest is a must for any young surfers looking to make it at a national, or even international level.  

Plico’s Tyler Jackman, a keen surfer himself, said he wasn’t just impressed with the surfing he saw at the Shred Fest.  

“The calibre of these junior surfers was simply outstanding,” said Tyler.  

“It was also amazing to see how they supported each other throughout the competition, whether they won or lost in their divisions.  

“I was honoured to be part of such a positive and inspiring event supporting our junior surfers,” he said.    

Competitors shared in over $13,000 in prizes and giveaways. Well done to Willow Hardy, Otis North, Olive Hardy, Sid Englert, Leila Fraser, Cruz Uros, Lilly Naylor and Nate Spooner who were all division winners.  

Plico was proud to throw our support behind this epic event. With many of our founding members part of the south west surfing community, the Shred Fest has always held a special place for us. Like many of the young groms competing and their families, we believe that riding waves and looking after our planet go hand in hand. That’s why we’ve been with the Shredders from the very start, and 2023 was no different. We joined Rusty Australia, City of Busselton and SunSmart, along with event organisers Yallingup Boardriders, to present the 2023 Yallingup Shred Fest for the third year.  

This year’s sponsorship was provided through the Plico/DCEP Community Fund. Plico members contribute to this fund through their one-off membership fee, which is invested in local environmental and community projects.  

Well done to all the frothers who competed or supported their friends and family at this year’s Shred Fest!