EPIC GNARALOO

The UK’s not the only place enjoying the fruits of feisty weather systems, as this wee report from Simon Hurrey demonstrates. If you were wondering what he’s up to these days, this will give you a clue…

“The sea breeze in Western Australia in February was hard to find. A tropical cyclone over the north pushed a month long trough down the entire coast. Laure and I had a few fun easterly freestyle sessions and the waves were great, held up by the offshore, but the afternoon fun just wasn’t happening. After a couple of short trips to Margaret river where we had some good waves, a forecast popped up in Gnaraloo. The cyclone was heading out to sea and a solid swell was pushing in from the south. it even looked as though there would be enough wind. Gnaraloo is 1’200kms north of Perth but we felt it would be worth it……

We met up with a few others in Geraldton and the next day arrived at ‘Tombstones’ to see endless mast high sets reeling down the reef with barely a soul on the water. We had scored, big time. After a few hours of perfect riding we set up camp and waited for day 2 which was supposed to be lighter. We were already on fairly large kit so we were praying it the wind would fill in again. It was even better than we could have imagined. After a morning surf, we headed to the break where the wind was filling in and the swell was still a solid logo to mast. With a bit more wind on the face and getting more used to the heavy break, the potential for aerials increased. We sailed until we couldn’t hold on any more and myself and Kit (who had driven all the way up for just the 2 days!) stayed out until well into the evening.

We’re now braving the flies and tinned food waiting for the next instalment which looks like tomorrow. Bring it on.”