Region welcomes boost from Margaret River Pro contract extension to 2028

The business sector has hailed news the Margaret River Pro is guaranteed for another four years after WA Premier Roger Cook confirmed the deal last Friday.

During a stop in Margaret River, Mr Cook said the State Government was thrilled to confirm the extended contract to 2028 as one of the ways to keep providing economic and promotional support to the South West.

“We’re really excited about this announcement because it means we continue to make Margaret River one of the key points of the global competition,” he said.

“Last year alone it represented an $8 million injection into the local economy, including over 3400 visitors as part of bringing that competition to WA.

“So it’s another key example of how my Government is continuing to support and drive the economy of the South West.”

Shire of Augusta-Margaret River president Julia Meldrum welcomed the news, which tied in with the council’s own contribution to the World Surf League for the next five years.

“It’s an event locals look forward to every year and delivers so many positive benefits to the community and local businesses, while also inspiring the next generation of local surfers,” she said.

Margaret River Business Network chief executive Annie McFie said the flow-on effect for local businesses and suppliers made the Pro one of the highlights of the year.

“The visitors, surfers and their crew here for the event have had a wonderful opportunity to visit our attractions, dine in our restaurants and bars, and support our local businesses,” she said.

Network president Rob Gough said the business sector was “pumped” at the news.

“As a local business operator for over 20 years, we greatly appreciate what WSL brings to our region, and our Shire’s ongoing support of the iconic Margaret River Pro,” he said.

“In addition to benefiting our local economy, WSL has engaged extensively with our community to acknowledge its unique cultural identity and environmental values.”

World Surf League Australia-Pacific president Andrew Stark said he was “absolutely thrilled” to confirm the Championship Tour would continue at Margaret River unabated.

“The WA Margaret River Pro is such an amazing event location and a spectacular high-stakes wave on our global tour, and one that the surfers’ staff and fans absolutely love to attend and watch,” he said.

“The stunning region of Margaret River is a location we all look forward to returning to annually, and we are excited to deliver the event for many years to come in partnership with the WA Government.”

Mr Cook said the new agreement was a great outcome for Margaret River’s status on the world stage, now in its 10th year of State Government support.

Tourism Minister Rita Saffioti said promotion of the region through the Pro had significant knock-on effects beyond surfing.

“The Margaret River Pro has long been a staple in WA’s calendar of major events, and we are very proud to be locking in our support for this event for another four years,” she said.

“This event brings thousands of visitors to the beautiful South West . . . and supports our regional businesses and communities.”

Warren-Blackwood MLA Jane Kelsbie said she strongly supported the State’s role in securing the Championship Tour for her Margaret River electorate.