NWSR Awards 2024
Respect Award 2024 « In Memory of Bill Wallace
Darlene Gower
Darlene is a
life member and long-time Registrar of the Noosa Malibu Club, where her tireless
administrative work over more than a decade has helped grow the club into one of the
largest longboard communities in Australia—if not the world. She was also the President
of the Noosa Parks Association over 2 years and now in the Secretary role, where her
leadership plays a vital role in protecting the Noosa National Park, right alongside the
Noosa World Surfing Reserve.
Darlene’s efforts may be behind the scenes, but her legacy is front and centre—helping
to ensure a thriving, well-supported surf culture and a protected natural environment
for generations to come.
Environmental Award 2024
Di & Win Cuddihy
These two
extraordinary individuals’ dedication to our coastal community has spanned decades.
They’ve served on committees for both the Noosa Malibu Club, being honoured as a life
member and the Noosa World Surfing Reserve as well as endless volunteering.
It's
their daily dedication that truly sets them apart. Every morning, without fail, they
walk the stretch of beach from First Point to the river mouth, collecting rubbish and
whatever doesn’t belong on our shoreline. Not only do they help clean our beaches, but
they also inspire others to care a little more, to do a little better.
Cultural Award 2024
Ocean Heroes
Ocean Heroes
are an incredible organisation that bring the joy of surfing to children on the autism
spectrum, creating unforgettable moments for families who may have once thought the
ocean was out of reach. With free surf events tailored to meet each child’s unique
needs, they break down barriers of anxiety, sensory overload, and fear—replacing them
with confidence, pride, and pure joy.
After two events in Noosa, and more already planned, it’s clear the impact has been
profound and the community stands stronger and more inclusive because of their efforts.
Industry Innovation 2024
Stuart Campbell
A lifelong local and respected board builder, Stuart has taken surfcraft to the next level—combining hands-on craftsmanship with scientific research. Through a unique, self-built testing system, they’ve been able to measure surfboard flex and pinpoint stress and break points with precision. This work allows for better understanding of how boards perform under pressure—literally—and has helped improve both durability and performance. The goal? Better boards that last longer, perform at their best, and reduce waste ending up in landfill. Their work not only enhances the surfing experience in the Noosa World Surfing Reserve but also protects it for the future.
Photography Award 2024
Lou-Eva Mechin
Lou-Eva is a
dedicated surf photographer, videographer, and surfer, she brings the joy, energy, and
talent of our local surf community to life—showcasing not only the surfers, but also the
stunning backdrop of our home breaks. Her work doesn’t just celebrate Noosa—it
encourages others to respect and protect it.
Through her creative content, she helps the Noosa World Surfing Reserve reach and
inspire more people, spreading stoke while promoting a deeper connection to the
environment we all love.
Videography Award 2024
Samuel Fairbank
Sam has spent
nearly a decade capturing the heart and soul of Noosa through photography and film.
A lifelong surfer and passionate storyteller, he documented the beauty and culture of
the Noosa World Surfing Reserve—spending over 100 days filming just last year. His
recent film young local shredder Hunter, Book of Hunter, has reached global audiences,
screening at festivals from Hawaii to Portugal.
But beyond the lens, his work is about preserving Noosa’s surf legacy—sharing our story with the world and inspiring a deeper appreciation for this special place. He films and photographs as a medium for the message, that the Noosa World Surfing Reserve matters.
Community Surfer Junior Male 2024
Kai Coleman
Kai is a
rising star in the surf scene—both in the water and in the community.
A dedicated national-level surfer and a proud member of the Noosa Boardriders Club and
Sunshine Beach State High’s Surfing Excellence Program. He trains hard almost every day,
but still finds time to give back—volunteering at club BBQs and supporting his fellow
groms with a smile.
With talent, determination, and a great attitude, there’s no doubt Kai has a bright
future ahead—on the podium and beyond.
Community Surfer Junior Female 2024
Poppy Wright
Poppy even at
such a young age has contributed well beyond her years and always shows up for her
community . She endlessly volunteers at beach clean ups, Noosa Malibu Club days, the
Noosa Festival of Surfing and many other events throughout the year.
Poppy has been surfing Noosa’s points since she was a pee wee and is now a proud, active
member of the Noosa Malibu Club. She's a fearless, kind, and inclusive presence in the
water, encouraging other young girls to surf with confidence and joy.
Through her support of juniors and pee wees, and her care for the Noosa World Surfing
Reserve, Poppy is helping shape a future where surfing is respectful, inclusive, and
deeply connected to place.
Community Surfer Senior Male 2024
Chris Brooke
Chris is
making waves not just in the surf, but in the community—by creating space for more girls
to thrive in the sport.
As a member of the Noosa Boardriders Club, Chris saw a gap in female participation and
took action—starting a girls’ development squad focused on shortboarding and competition
surfing with a goal to help girls share the sport of surfing and stick with it for life.
Thanks to his energy and leadership, more young women are now stepping into the surf in
our community club—and staying there.
Community Surfer Senior Female 2024
Ashleigh Browne
As both a
surfer and a surf coach, Ash is a strong advocate for surf etiquette—especially where
it’s needed most, among kids and visiting backpackers. By championing the surf code and
teaching respectful practices, she helps reduce conflict in the water and creates a
safer, more enjoyable space for everyone.
Her quiet leadership keeps the peace and protects the culture of our waves.
