Blog

Soundboks Oz Grom Open – Now Bigger and Better Than Ever. Presented by O’Neill and Incorporating the WSL Traeger Grills Pro Junior

The 2025 Soundboks Oz Grom Open, hosted by Le-Ba Boardriders, is set to return for its 14th year of this iconic junior surfing competition. This long-standing event has evolved, bringing a fresh new look and feel as it attracts surfers, fans, and sponsors from around the world. With a brand-new naming sponsor, Soundboks, and presenting partner O’Neill, the event is poised to be bigger and better than ever.

Incorporating the WSL Traeger Grills Pro Junior, the event will take place from 3–8 July 2025 in the beautiful, surf-rich region of Lennox Head. As one of the most prestigious junior surfing competitions globally, the Soundboks Oz Grom Open brings together top-level competitors contending for national rankings, with the U16 and U18 divisions vying for selection to represent Australia at the International Surfing Association (ISA) World Junior Championships.

The Soundboks Oz Grom Open event features both the U14 to U18 divisions (competing for national rankings and ISA selection) and the WSL Traeger Grills Pro Junior, where surfers under 21 battle for qualification to the upcoming WSL World Junior Championships. This unique combination of elite junior talent and professional-level competition makes the event one of the most exciting junior surf events worldwide.

With divisions for both boys and girls and a strong focus on inclusivity and youth empowerment, the event celebrates surfing’s universal appeal—fostering confidence, community, and connection among the next generation of champions.

Built to mirror a WSL Tour event, it features a professional judging panel, computerised scoring, digital priority boards, athlete zones, and a live global webcast with commentary from world-renowned surf personalities, reaching more than one million viewers worldwide. In 2024, ISA World Junior Champion Dane Henry’s perfect 10-point ride wowed the crowd and racked up 1.1 million Instagram views, spotlighting the world-class talent the event attracts. 

“The Oz Grom Open is more than a surf comp — it’s where the next generation of champions are forged and where our town comes together to celebrate youth, surf, and the coastal lifestyle,” said Anthony O’Brien, Event Manager. “Each year, the energy grows, and with new partners like Soundboks on board, 2025 will be our biggest event yet.”

Beyond the waves, the event has long been a key driver of the economy and regional tourism during the traditionally quieter winter season. Locals affectionately refer to it as Christmas in July, as families, surf fans, and athletes flock to Lennox, bringing a welcome upswing for local cafes, retail, accommodation, and tourism operators.

“The Grom Comp embraces so much of the Aussie surfer’s journey — the classic road trip, the grommet enthusiasm, and the time spent with other kids who all love surfing. Memories and friendships are made that stand the test of time… and maybe the opportunity to prove yourself in Australia’s biggest grom event. We are stoked to be involved,” said Rob Bain, O’Neill Marketing Director.

Whether you’re a surf fan, travelling family, or regional explorer, the event is the perfect chance to experience the Northern Rivers—from whale watching and rainforest hikes to vibrant markets, beachside dining, and its famously relaxed lifestyle.

Registrations open at 9 a.m. on Monday, 12 May, and close at 5 p.m. on Monday, 19 May. Full entry details and registrations will be available via the Soundboks Oz Grom Open website and the Surfing Australia Just Go platform. Surfers are encouraged to register early, as divisions are limited and demand is expected to be high.