Tribute competition for Bondi surfer
This October, the Bondi surfing community will celebrate the life of Chloe Byron, a victim of the 2002 Bali Bombings, in a unique fashion.
An annual surfing contest will be hosted by Bondi Girls Surfriders and Bondi Longboard Club, both of which Byron was a member. The day will include a range of surfing heats, a breakfast, and a memorial paddle out and circle of friendship at 1pm.
“On this day, our community will join as one big ‘Ohana’ to pay our respects and celebrate Chloe’s beautiful life and that of so many others that lost their lives in Bali”, said secretary for Bondi Girls Surfriders, Kim McMahon, “Chloe was one of the first junior members of Bondi Girls Surfriders, when I think of her I think of her larger than life personality, there was always a good vibe in the water when she was out in a line up.
It is a fantastic and heart warming day, everyone is welcome”
All proceeds from the competition will go to a charity personally chosen by David and Tia Byron. Proceeds this year will go to “The Homicide Victims Support Group”, formed in 1993 to provide support, counselling and information for families and friends affected by homicide in NSW.
“It really shows the strength and good nature of the Bondi community” said surfing enthusiast, Sylvia Symmington. “Not only does this wonderful event keep Chloe’s memory alive, it celebrates how she lived”.
Longboards over nine feet will be provided to those who need them on the day, there will also be raffle prizes donated by the local community.
The Chloe Byron memorial day will be held on October 16 and is open to all men, women and juniors (under 16 years). Registration kicks off at 7am at the Bondi Girls Surfriders tent on Bondi Beach.
By Georgia Fullerton
