A Celebration of Surfing Heritage: WA’s Whalebone Longboard Classic

Heritage, style, and community

The Whalebone Classic began in 1998, when local longboarder Peter Dunn discovered a washed-up whale rib poking out of Isolators Reef. That bone inspired a competition in memory of the whale’s spirit, co-organised by Cottesloe Longboard Club. Over the following quarter of a century, it has grown into one of WA’s most famous longboard events – and a major event for the local community too.

Held along pristine Cottesloe Beach – known for its laid-back vibe and reliable longboard break – the event draws surfers across all levels, ages and divisions. Past champions include big names like Georgia Young, Jack Medland, Scott Trew, and Anthony Spencer.

The spirit of the Whalebone

What sets the Whalebone Longboard Classic apart isn’t just its setting, longevity or prestige, but the energy it attracts. It’s one of the few major longboarding competitions in Australia that balances high-level competition with a truly grassroots, inclusive feel. From junior surfers finding their lines, to returning legends competing in the over-65s and Old Mal divisions, the Whalebone is as much about shared passion as podium places. Add to that the soundtrack of local music, familiar beach banter and a community that turns up rain or shine, and you’ve got something really special – bringing together surfers of all ages, families, stalls, entertainment and spectators in a true festival of longboarding culture.

Last year…

2024 celebrated the event’s 25th anniversary, attracting over 150 competitors aged 17-75. Despite finishing in wet, windy, challenging conditions, record numbers of surfers from across Western Australia – and interstate – came for both the legendary longboard vibe and solid Cottesloe swells.

Event founder Peter Dunn reflected that:

“The Whalebone brings the tribes together regardless of the weather. I’d have never imagined that the event would have grown to what it is today, thanks to everyone who has added to the prestige and history of the event and I can’t wait for the 26th Whalebone Longboard Classic.”

26th Whalebone Longboard Classic

Dates: Friday 11th to Sunday 13th July 2025

Location: Isolators Reef, Cottesloe Beach, Perth, WA

Format: competition across 15 divisions – from under-18 juniors to over-65 veterans, including the prestigious Open Men’s and Open Women’s categories, plus an ‘Old Mals’ category for pre-1967 shapes.

Spectator experience: expect contest heats spilling into beachside hangouts, with plenty of surf stalls, coffee stands, licenced bars, live music, and food carts keeping things fun all day long. Entry is free for spectators, with thousands expecting to be cheering from Cottesloe’s white sands.

See you at Cott?

As proud partners of Surfing WA, Red Equipment is back at the 26th Whalebone Longboard Classic — bringing surf-ready changing robes, waterproof bags, poncho towels and other surfing essentials to this celebration of longboard surf culture. Whether you’re competing, supporting, or just hanging beachside between heats, our kit’s designed to help you stay warm, dry and loving life by the water.

We’re here to chat, get feedback on our products, and let you try out – and try on – some of the latest Red gear. Plus we’re offering an exclusive 15% off to all attendees. So come say hi and claim your discount.

Acknowledgement

We acknowledge the Whadjuk Nyoongar people as the traditional custodians of the lands and waters around Cottesloe.