The inaugural South Coast Cup took place over the weekend, with Southend Boardriders Maroubra taking home the win in "all-time conditions" at Jones Beach.

Thirteen clubs competed for a $4500 prize pool and after a week of poor weather, the sun made a welcome appearance on Saturday, setting the stage for a highly successful event.

“It was a beautiful, sunny day. The amazing weather really allowed the event to flourish,” said Jones Beach Boardriders member Geoff Latimar.

“We ended up holding it in the middle of Jones Beach in what were probably all-time conditions, surf-wise.

"The paddle out was challenging, but the wave quality - and some of the surfing we witnessed - will be remembered for a long time.”

The surf gods provided for the South Coast Cup at Jones Beach. Photo: Brian Scott

After the heats, the field was narrowed down to eight clubs, then four for the final. 

Southend came out on top with a total score of 29.64, followed by Ulladulla in second with 26.84.

“It was super close,” said Latimar. “It was back and forth for a while, and then Maroubra locked in a perfect 10-point ride from Blake Thorton - an ex-professional surfer who was on the world tour. That sealed the win for them.”

Jones Beach Boardriders, who also hosted the event, took third place.

“Oceanna Rogers dropped a 9.5 in the semi-final - the highest scoring wave by any female surfer all day,” Latimar said.

 “She was a standout throughout the event. Unfortunately, we didn’t quite click as a team in the final and fell away a little at the end. But to place third in the first year, with the calibre of clubs involved, gives us something to build on for next time.”

Clubs travelled from as far north as South Sydney and as far south as the Victorian border, and according to Latimar, feedback was overwhelmingly positive.

“Everyone was so stoked with how it went. The camaraderie and the event atmosphere were epic. A lot of people can’t wait for next year’s edition,” he said.

Approximately 500 people attended on the day, which featured more than just surfing. There were BBQs, live commentary, music, and a community celebration to close the event.

The first South Coast Cup proved to be a big success. Photo: Brian Scott

“In collaboration with the surf club, there was live music during the finals. The presentation was held at the surf club afterwards with more music and a pizza truck. It was a pretty special afternoon - great surfing, great vibes, and a perfect way to wrap it up,” said Latimar.

JBB are confident the South Coast Cup will return in 2026, and they’re already looking forward to doing it all again.

“We want to thank the entire local community for showing up and getting behind the event. And of course, a huge thanks to our sponsors and partners - Zink Surf, Kiama Council, The Man Walk, Haworth Guitars, Atmosphere Productions, Ocean and Earth, Secret Sumatra, Kiama Downs IGA, and Superior Meats Shellharbour,” Latimar said.