“We have another big membership contingent this year with over 70 members – some new and old rejoining,” spokesman Craig Ryan said. 

“We’ve also got some kids that have come of age and decided to try their skills in some surfing comps.”

The club has booked in a few away trips and some specialised coaching sessions have also been pencilled in. 

“We have some fundraising efforts too through trivia and band nights planned,” Ryan said. 

One of the first away trips will be a novelty team competition event in Mallacoota. 

“We’ve been invited by the organisers for the Mallacoota Far Easter surf comp on the 7^th to 9^th of April,” Ryan said. 

“This should be a great social event and exciting times for everyone to meet new people and have some fun in the water.”

He said the club was changing its approach on competition days with altered judging criteria in the aims of making events more fun with the first competition round to go ahead this weekend.

Ryan has previously joked that you know it is competition time when the waves fall off at Merimbula’s Main Beach. 

However, all fingers are crossed for some swell to kick off the year with excitement running at a high as members look to hit the waves.  

Everyone who registered for the competition is urged to meet at the Ford Park sailboard club room from 7am to sign up for their age-grouped heats. 

Spectators are more than welcome.