Pam Burridge and Layne Beachley honoured at
Celebration of Australian Women in Surf Gala 2017
Generations of Australian women’s surfing royalty gathered on Saturday night to celebrate the iconic women of the sport at a glamorous black-tie gala event, hosted by the Sally.
The second Celebration of Australian Women in Surf attracted over 220 guests who joined in celebrating the incredible lives of Pam Burridge and Layne Beachley. Both women were honoured for their sacrifices and achievements in shaping the careers of our country’s top surfing competitors.
“It’s quite a remarkable opportunity to have lived the life we’ve lived as professional surfers,” said Layne Beachley.
“To be back in this room with so many influential friends, families, mentors, champions and legends of the sporting world is incredible. To look back on the career that I’ve lived and go, wow… the opportunities surfing has presented me are incredible to consider.”
“I’m just grateful I’ve been able to stand on the shoulders of giants, like Pam (Burridge), like Pauline (Menczer) and other people who’ve shaped the career I’ve lived.”
Other greats in the room included Australia’s first world champion in 1964, Phyllis O’Donnell, 10 times Bells Beach Champion, Gail Couper, 1993 World Champion Pauline Menczer, former #2 pro surfer, Jodie Cooper, Rookie of the Year, Keely Andrew and future star, Sabre Norris.
In accepting recognition, Pam Burridge said, “I’m really proud to be here. This is such a special event. Last year, I remember going home saying to myself, I can’t wait for next year.”
“Congratulations to Sally and the team. To back it up again this year – I mean, one is easy, backing it up is hard,” the 1990 World Champion jokes.
The night was a great success in raising awareness of Sally’s Community issues, initially to combat the increasing effects of obesity, particularly in children and Future awareness programs revolving around the Environment with a focus on the Ocean.
“I’m so proud to be a part of this”, said Sally. “To be a beneficiary of the legacy, the energy the heart and soul you’ve put into your performances.”
“It’s a great night to share our stories while raising awareness of important social issues. Bringing us all together is a privilege for me, it’s completely humbling that everyone has come to share our history and talk about the future of women’s surfing. Thank you for celebrating.”
THE 2017 GALA EVENT HIGHLIGHTS
Photos by Georgia Matts & Corina Vargas
Pam Burridge
Layne Beachley
Thank you to our partners for making this night possible
Thank you to our partners for making this night possible
The Office of Sport works with key sector partners to develop a vibrant and valued sport and active recreation sector. At our core, we believe sport and recreation are for everyone. The Office actively supports women’s participation in sport and is proud to sponsor the Celebration of Australian Women in Surf Gala Dinner.
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