Forklift fire on camera
YOU’VE got to win it to ring it, and the Surf Coast will continue ringing the famous Rip Curl Pro bell for at least five more years.
Sport and Tourism Minister John Eren yesterday announced a new five-year deal for the world’s longest running world championship surf contest to continue at Bells Beach until at least 2022.
“The Rip Curl Pro is going nowhere — these world-class competitions are right at home in the sporting capital,” Mr Eren said.
“For over 30 years, this event has helped shape the proud history of Bells Beach.
“This new deal will keep attracting thousands of visitors to the region, creating jobs and boosting local business.”
While there has been no suggestion of moving the event from Bells Beach, where it has been held for the past 56 years, the announcement will be welcomed by the Surf Coast community.
About 30,000 people attended the 2017 Rip Curl Pro, bringing a major economic boost to Torquay and the entire Surf Coast region.
The new deal is likely to ensure visitors continue to flock to the event, traditionally held over the Easter long weekend period.
World Surf League senior vice president Dave Prodan welcomed the new five-year deal.
“Bells Beach is such an important event on the WSL Championship Tour calendar and we look forward to bringing the world’s best surfers back to Victoria each year to showcase their incredible talents at such an iconic location,” Mr Prodan said.
Aussie surf fans will hope our homegrown surfers rise to the oc- casion in 2018, after South African Jordy Smith won the mens competition, and American Courtney Conlogue rung the bell in the women’s event. A MAN’S attempt to set a forklift alight at a North Geelong petrol bowser has been caught on camera, with police calling on the community to help identify the culprit.
Police were told a forklift was parked at a Thompson Rd service station when the man approached the equipment just before 8.30pm on August 30.
Victoria Police spokesman Luke Zammit said the offender poured liquid onto the forklift and set it alight before running off.
Emergency services arrived soon after and quickly brought the fire under control.
No one was injured and the damage was contained to the forklift.
The man, who made efforts to conceal his face with a grey hood, was wearing a fluorescent orange jumper and work pants.
“Police would like to speak to anyone who recognises the man or has any hot leads relating to the investigation,” Mr Zammit said.
Anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit crime stoppersvic.com.au