World Surfing Conservation Conference 2026 set for Gold Coast
Early bird tickets now open for WSCC 2026 , celebrating 10 years of the World Surfing Reserve.
What’s happening?
Early bird tickets are now available to register online for the World Surfing Conservation Conference (WSCC) 2026 at Southern Cross University’s Gold Coast Campus from 16–19 February 2026. The conference coincides with Gold Coast World Surfing Reserve’s 10th anniversary as the 8th World Surfing Reserve (2016–2026).
The inaugural WSCC 2026 is a four-day conference presenting an extensive program of world-class experts in ocean conservation, surfing tourism, coastal engineering, and wellness themes.
The final day will feature a panel discussion with well-known surfing NGOs focused on finding sustainable solutions for coastal protection policies and the preservation of surfing ecosystems.
Why it matters
The WSCC 2026 brings together leading groups and organisations to address pressing ocean conservation issues, concerns, and impacts on surfing ecosystems. Key themes include water quality, climate change, coastal protection, marine biodiversity, shark mitigation, the surf industry, innovation, gender, Indigenous culture, para surfing, health and well-being, and the future of surfing as both a sport and lifestyle.
By the numbers
• The World Surfing Conservation Conference 2026 will run for four days, from 16–19 February 2026.
• The event celebrates ten years since the Gold Coast became the 8th World Surfing Reserve in 2016.
• Lucky ticket holders will have the chance to win two prizes – a seven-week holiday for two at Matanivusi Eco Resort in Fiji and a one-week stay for one at Villa Santai in Rote, Indonesia.
• Abstract submissions have been extended until 31 October 2025 for interested participants.
Zoom In
The WSCC has invited Save The Waves and their Surf Protected Network, along with delegates from World Surfing Reserves, National Surfing Reserves, Conservation International, Surfrider Foundation, Surfers for Climate, Prom Peru, Academic Research Scholars, Tertiary Education, High Schools, and Boardrider Clubs.
Other highlights include:
Steven Valiere’s Surf Art Exhibition
Emily Rose’s pyrographic wood turtle creation
Andrew Kidman’s Earth Ball plastic photo exhibition and movie
Guilio Pompei’s Surf Cartoon Art
Belinda Baggs’ Surfers for Climate documentary and GCWSR photo exhibition
Zoom Out
The conference will showcase a diverse mix of academic, artistic, and community-focused presentations aimed at supporting sustainable coastal protection policies. With the participation of renowned conservation and surfing groups, WSCC 2026 represents a collaborative approach to protecting surf zones and marine ecosystems through shared expertise and awareness.
Local Impact
The event highlights Southern Cross University Gold Coast Campus as a venue for global collaboration in surfing conservation and education. It will also mark a significant milestone for the Gold Coast World Surfing Reserve, celebrating its contribution to coastal protection and sustainable surfing culture from 2016 to 2026.
What to look for next
Abstract submissions close on 31 October 2025, and registration along with accommodation details are available HERE