By Laura Michell
When you think of Victoria’s top surf destinations, Tullamarine doesn’t even make the list. But that’s about to change.
Urbnsurf is just a few months away from opening its surf park near Melbourne Airport.
Construction of the $28 million park began in March last year, with the first water expected to hit the lagoon in the coming days.
From there, extensive testing will begin to ensure the perfect waves.
The surf park’s lagoon is about the size of the MCG and will be able to host up to 84 surfers per hour across six zones.
Urbnsurf founder Andrew Ross said that all going to plan, the doors will open before Christmas.
Mr Ross said the park, the first of its kind in the southern hemisphere, would provide a safe and convenient surfing experience.
“Not everyone gets to surf because they don’t live near the beach or coast,” he said.
“We will be able to offer perfect waves at any time of the day or night.”
Mr Ross said the surf park would accommodate surfers of all abilities.
“People learn more quickly in a man-made environment than in the ocean,” he said.
“Surfing has a very steep learning curve associated with it … we aim to provide pathways for people to progress.”
More than 60 jobs have been created at the surf park, with Urbnsurf currently hiring for a range of positions including lifeguards and surf coaches.
Mr Ross hopes the surf park will become part of the Hume community.
“We want people to feel it is something they can be proud of and be connected to the community,” he said.
