Media Releases

Manly’s new ‘Surfers’ Code of Etiquette’ signage

13 Jan 2010

Manly Council in association with the Manly Surf Club Liaison Working Group and the Manly Surfers Action Group has begun displaying brightly coloured ‘Surfers’ Code of Etiquette’ signage on Manly’s world famous beaches, initially on the walls of the North Steyne Surf Club and the Boat Shed at Queenscliff).

The signs, shaped like surf boards and complete with easy-to-follow illustrations, outline the basic ‘rules’ of surfing etiquette, encouraging surfers to avoid such common mistakes as ‘dropping in’ and ‘snaking’; explaining ‘right of way’ conventions; giving rules for paddling out; and giving safe-surfing tips.

Manly’s ‘Surfers’ Code of Etiquette’ is based on a ‘Surfers Code’ developed by a NSW Department Sport & Recreation working group comprising surf life saving clubs, board rider clubs (both long and short), body boarding clubs, professional lifeguards, surf schools and local councils.

“All surfers, whether beginners, intermediate or proficient professional surfers, ought to be aware that the waves are for all to share and that even a small amount of consideration will go a long way in making Manly Beach enjoyable for all,” said Mayor of Manly, Councillor Jean Hay.

“The ‘Surfers’ Code of Etiquette’ aims are to promote safer surfing on beaches, to foster a culture of respect and responsibility and to reduce the incidence of surf rage.”

Background:

Manly Beach is one of the most popular surf beaches in Australia, attracting between five- and eight million visitors annually.

Since Duke Kahanamoku first visited Freshwater Beach almost one hundred years ago to introduce surfing to Australia, the sport has become one of the most popular recreation activities in Manly, its associated culture contributing greatly to the development of Manly as a community.

Surfing is in the top 20 participated sports in Australia with an estimated two million Australians surfing during the summer of 2008-2009.

“Surfing is a sport that most members of our community can enjoy, so the surfing community encourages respect of others who are also there to enjoy the beach lifestyle,” said Councillor Hay.

 

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