Buffeted by the turbulent waters of the Bass Strait, the Surf Coast of Victoria has been a fertile breeding ground for surfing talent for decades. It’s steeped in surf lore, the home of the local-brand-come-international empire Rip Curl, and the world’s longest-running surf event at the iconic Bells Beach.
It’s a rugged, often windswept land of towering bluffs, winding roads and shoaling reefs, where only the true core-lord is willing to endure the teeth-chattering winter swells rolling in over the dark, ominous waters of the Southern Ocean. Beneath the jagged cliffs, at its famous temples of Bells and Winkipop, is the pure power of nature personified. It demands a raw-power rail game and a burning competitive drive to brave the elements and win the internal contest between body and mind.
A region suited to the explosive style and combative competitive spirit of local rising star Ellie Harrison, the Torquay Boardriders’ product is poised to impact the international stage. With her deep forehand carves and aggressive intent on full display, Ellie is the youngest Australian on this year’s Challenger Series.
Born and raised in the coastal hamlet of Barwon Heads, Ellie cut her teeth as a grom competing against her three older brothers. “Ellie’s brothers Tom, Bill and Joe started surfing very early and fell in love with the sport. Ellie just wanted to do what her brothers were doing, so there was always that carrot dangling,” says Ellie’s father, Steve.
Ellie’s brother Billy remembers his little sister’s early days. “She was a huge tomboy,” he says and laughs. “A massive pest who would wind up anyone—even at a young age.”
With four siblings battling for waves, wax and boards, love and competition in the Harrison household
