Minister for Trade, Tourism and Major Events and Minister for Sport, Stuart Ayres, said the event would give Kiama worldwide exposure, and attract thousands of visitors to the region.

“The WSL World Junior Championships is the premier event for young surfers, and will see the very best athletes coming to Kiama to compete. It will be a huge boost to the South Coast, confirming the region’s reputation as a must visit for surfers,” Mr Ayres said.

“From 2017-2018 the event will attract more than 2000 people to Kiama, with visitors estimated to spend almost $1.8 million. This is great news for local hotels, restaurants and attractions, and for the NSW economy.”

Member for Kiama, Gareth Ward, said the championships will see the region and its beaches promoted around the world.

“The championships will be seen right around the surfing world, through a live webcast, highlights TV show and inclusion in other championship tour events. This coverage will reach millions of households worldwide, displaying our beautiful region to potential visitors,” Mr Ward said.

“I can’t wait to welcome competitors to Kiama next year as this is a fantastic way for local surfing fans to view the stars of tomorrow on one of NSW’s best beaches.”

Previous winners of this event include world-class surfers Sally Fitzgibbons, Joel Parkinson, Andy Irons and Adriano de Souza. The 2017 event will be held from 4-15 January.

WSL World Junior Championships was secured by the NSW Government through its tourism and major events agency, Destination NSW.

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