Umina and Ocean Beach have been selected to host the Junior and Senior NSW Surf Life Saving Championships for 2013 and 2014.

It has been announced by NSW Surf Life Saving that Umina and Ocean Beach will host the event for the next two years, following the relevant Council approvals and the signing of formal agreements.

Mayor of Gosford City, Councillor Laurie Maher says that hosting the Championships will provide a great boost for tourism and small business in Umina Beach and surrounding areas.

“With an influx of visitors before, during and after the competition period, businesses in the area will benefit from a major increase in customers.

“Competitors, their families and spectators from around New South Wales will be utilising short term accommodation and numerous other services during their stay.

“It is anticipated that the Championships will generate an estimated $18 million for the host City, an exciting prospect for the Umina Beach area.

“Surf Life Savers from across the state will be able to see firsthand the significant investment that Council has made into infrastructure to support beach safety and the maintenance of the beautiful beaches we enjoy in the Gosford Local Government Area,” said Clr Maher.

Gosford City Council’s Manager of Open Space and Leisure Services, Mr Phil Moore said Council would be providing in-kind support during the event.

“In partnership with Central Coast Tourism, NSW and Central Coast Surf Life Saving, Council Officers will be working to provide a safe and enjoyable event for competitors and spectators.

“Council will be providing a number of beach vehicles, fencing, lighting and access services for the event, with Central Coast tourism providing assistance to spectators and competitors in securing accommodation and other services,” said Mr Moore.

Surf Life Saving New South Wales President, Mr Tony Haven says Umina and Ocean Beach will provide a world-class venue for the state's premier surf sports event, which attracts more than 8000 competitors.

"Gosford City Council has been very supportive of this event and the location is ideal - close to the majority of competitors, with great accommodation options and easy access.

“The facilities available to competitors and the overall support from Gosford City Council were major factors in selecting Umina and Ocean Beach to host of the event ahead of six other Councils who expressed interest in hosting the event.

“Both clubs also have a wealth of experience in conducting successful surf events on a large scale, with the 2005 Championships held here at Umina and Ocean Beach one of our most successful to date with over 8,700 entrants," said Mr Haven.