Dukes Day 100th Anniversary

This day was to celebrate 100 years since Duke Kahanamoku surfed Freshwater Beach in the first public display of surfing in Australia. There is evidence of surfing in Australia prior to this, however, this was the first time it was a public event with all of the day’s media & dignitaries in attendance. The Duke known as the father of surfing was also a gold medal Olympic swimmer. Aloha Duke for bringing surfing as a sport to Australia. I often wonder if the Duke knew if this would be the birth of an not just a sport but an Australian way of life.

The following images are of the re-enactment held at Freshwater Beach 100 years to the day since the Duke’s visit. The elite of Australian competitive surfing, as well as the general surfing tribe, paid their respects to the Duke and I can tell you that personally, it was the most emotional and festive event I have ever attended.

My favorite was seeing my old boss Denny Keogh. A giant in the industry & and all-around good bloke. Cheers Denny.