Empowered by Reny®
History
Surfrider Foundation has been protecting Australia's oceans and coastlines since 1991
Surfrider Foundation Australia has a proud history of protecting our unique oceans, waves and beaches for over 34 years.
Image: Surfrider Foundation Australia Inaugral Meeting on the Gold Coast 1991
Image: Don’t Spoil With Oil Rally Victoria 1993
In July of 1991, Surfrider Foundation Australia (SFA) was officially created on the Gold Coast by concerned surfers keen to protect Australia’s coastal environment.
Our story begins in 1990, when founder Brad Farmer AM witnessed 5,000 surfers demonstrate against the proposed sewerage outfall at South Stradbroke Island. Inspired, Brad started Surfrider Foundation Australia alongside a passionate group of surfers dedicated to protecting our beaches and waves.
Our first National Board included: President – Mark Richards, Vice-Presidents – Doug ‘Claw’ Warbrick, Wayne ‘Rabbit’ Bartholomew & Dr Rex Campbell, Chairperson – Bob Moffatt, National Secretary – Greg Howell, and Executive Director & Founder – Brad Farmer.
Surfrider’s founding has also established a network of branches throughout Australia. Led by volunteers passionate about protecting the ocean, branches are on the frontline advancing local issues and participating in conservation projects, including revegetation, community education and beach cleans.
Since then, branches have led hundreds of significant coastal environmental wins, including the creation of new marine parks in key surf locations.
Surfrider has now grown to 15 branches Australia-wide, a strategic national office that includes a CEO, National Campaigns Director, Operations & Branch Manager and a Digital Storyteller, as well as a strong board of Directors who govern the organisation and are key to the growth Surfrider continues to experience today.
Politics may seem distant or overwhelming, but it’s closer to home than you think. Every decision about our beaches, oceans, and marine life is influenced by those in power.
That’s why people from all walks of life need to get involved, speak up, and have their voices heard. Your participation matters, and your values deserve representation.
With a Federal election on the horizon in early 2025, the time to act is now. This is our opportunity to shape the future of our coastlines and oceans.
Start by reaching out to your local Member of Parliament—whether by email, phone, or in person. Introduce yourself, share your love for the coast, and make it clear:
