The stage was set. The venue was locked in, entertainment organised, chefs busy in the kitchen, wait staff preparing the floor, CHBC fairies sprinkling their décor dust, and your hosts—Vaughan and Ronnie Blakey digging through the CHBC vault for stories and the gold from the crevasses.
And then, it began. The 60th Coffs Harbour Boardriders presentation was underway. Guests arrived in style, gentlemen sharp in tailored suits, ladies dazzling in glamorous fashion that would not have been out of place at any Grammy Awards. Champagne flowed freely as smooth jazz filled the air, the room styled with an impeccable touch that made every corner feel alive with history and celebration.
When the Blakey brothers took the stage, the crowd knew they were in for something special. The night unfolded the only way it could, with roaring laughter and classic tales. Stories of Big Banana erections, pink pigs, and Michael Jackson impersonations had the room buzzing. Between the humour, decades of history came alive. Pioneering legends were remembered, past champions celebrated, and as each chapter was told, the timeline of CHBC stretched from its early days through to the present. The last decade was wrapped up with pride, leaving everyone in the room knowing they had been part of something truly special.
Massive thanks go to the following legends who helped shape this milestone event:
CHSLC Grant and staff – for running such an amazing night.
Donovan’s Surf Club – for serving world-class food and hospitality.
Tracey, Nikki, Bryn, Lauryn, Andrew, Keah, Carly and the Coffs Boardriders crew – for pulling together a celebration to remember.
Joel Parkinson – Thanks for joining us and for the incredible support through the years.
Billabong – Thanks for the years of supporting us and grassroots surfing.
Coopers Brewery (Chris + Partner) – for coming along and sharing the night and awesome beer.
Hoey Moey – Thanks for you ongoing support.
Novali Surf Retreat – Thanks Micky and Novi legends.
The Pete Skelton Trio – who set the tone with music worth checking out well beyond this night.
Gavin – for capturing every moment, thank you.
Life Members – both those who joined us on the night and those who were there in spirit.
Todd – for the printing and signage that brought it all together.
Offbeat – Thanks Shane, Lynne and Sharni for amazing sound production.
