Cronulla Retro Surf Comp 2025

The third annual Cronulla Retro Surf Contest was held on Saturday, November 8, 2025, at the legendary Alley in North Cronulla — and once again, the local surf community turned out in full retro spirit. Organised by the Cronulla Sharks Boardriders Club, the event drew over 70 of Cronulla’s finest surfers, all waxing up their old-school single fins, twinnies, and longboards to celebrate the golden era of surfing.

Under a bright spring sky and in clean 2-foot Nor’east swell, competitors took to the water in boardshorts, retro wetsuits, and plenty of throwback flair. Crowds lined the beach, enjoying a showcase of classic surfing style — from traditional cutbacks to arcing bottom turns and cheater fives that paid homage to the legends who shaped Cronulla’s surf heritage.

After a full day of fun heats and vintage-board masterclasses, it was Rhys Young who claimed his first Retro title, edging out our very own team rider Dane Decoque and Matt Gall-Soren Smith in a closely contested final. Local stalwarts Matt Holman and Glenn Pringle rounded out an impressive field of finalists.

The post-event celebrations captured the true essence of community surf culture — music, laughter, and plenty of tales from the lineup. Big thanks go to Dan and Amie Larter for their ongoing vision and passion for keeping the retro spirit alive, and to all the volunteers who jumped in to help make the day a success.

We were once again stoked to join with fellow event sponsors; Matt Ball and Enviro Car Wash, RB99, Hairyman Brewery, Hydro Logic, and Wax Zombies to get behind this event.

The beachside raffle was a crowd favorite once again, with Steve from Man Anchor walking away with the coveted Jackson single-fin — a handcrafted classic he proudly took home “back across the bridge.”

The 2025 Retro Surf Contest once again proved that while boards and fashions may change, Cronulla’s surf community spirit and love for the waves remain timeless.

Image credit: John Veage