Washed out Surfest means pits at the port

Surf Sessions

Joel Parkinson scores epic barrels at Newcastle

Surfersvillage Global Surf News, 22 February, 2013 : - - While the Burton Toyota Pro was put on hold due to washing machine-like conditions at Merewether beach today, the Association of Surfing Professionals reigning world champion and number one seed Joel Parkinson found safe harbour inside overhead barrels at the entrance to the port of Newcastle.

Parkinson's heat was due to be the next in the water at Merewether beach in the 6-star event, when organisers postponed, and then later cancelled, the remainder of the day's surfing competition.

State member for Newcastle Tim Owen has brought together police, the Newcastle Port Corporation and Surfest organisers to try and secure a location for the continuation of the Burton Toyota Pro and the Hunter Ports Women's Classic.  Predicted strong easterly winds for Saturday have provided a logistical challenge for organisers. The ocean at Merewether beach is wild, with large walls of white water providing near impossible paddle outs for surfers.

Surfest chief Warren Smith said numerous locations along the Newcastle coastline are being considered for tomorrow's continuation of the round of 24 and the women's quarter finals. "The wind is going to be a big factor. But first and foremost we have to consider the safety of the competitors and the public," Mr Smith said.

A call on the location for tomorrow's surfing will be made early Saturday morning.

www.surfest.com

Source: Surfest

Author: Paul Scott

Tags: Port of Newcastle, Joel Parkinson, Stormsurf

Sessions: Surfersvillage