MARGARET RIVER, WA/AUS (Sunday 22nd March 2025), The Think Mental Health WA Bodyboard Championships presented by Good Earth Surf Shop returned to the heavy reef of Gas Bay yesterday, with Western Australia’s best riders rising to the occasion in powerful and testing conditions.
A solid residual swell delivered consistent 4–5ft surf throughout the one-day event, while strengthening southerly winds added an extra layer of difficulty, creating a fair but demanding playing field for competitors chasing State Titles and national qualification.
Veteran competitor, Chad Jackson (Dunsborough) was the standout performer of the day, building momentum across his heats before delivering when it mattered most in the Open Men’s Final to claim the 2026 State Title. Known for pushing the boundaries of progression, Jackson combined diverse manoeuvres with an innovative aerial approach to separate himself from the field. He backed up his performance with a runner-up finish in the Over 35 Masters division to cap off an impressive campaign.
“The waves were super challenging all day and it was really anyones to win” said Jackson. “The other competitiors in these events are really the people I look up to these days. I’ve nerver really had things fall into place in a final for me so I was really elated that I was able to get the mokey off my baack this time round”.
Ben Veitch (Margaret River) also enjoyed a strong showing, securing the Over 35 Men’s State Title while finishing third in the Open Men’s division. Veitch’s explosive surfing was further rewarded in the Expression Session, where his creativity and flair saw him take top honours.
Emerging talent Hector Volckerts (WA) made a statement performance, advancing to the Open Men’s Semi Finals and posting one of the highest scores of the event, a standout 9.33 in the Quarter Finals, signaling his arrival as a serious contender.
In the junior ranks, Maxim Kolchin (WA) impressed in his debut appearance, claiming victory in the Under 16 Cadets division and offering an exciting glimpse into the future of WA bodyboarding.
Surfing WA Contest Director Pete Carrol said the event highlighted both the depth of talent in the state and the unique demands of Gas Bay.
“The 2026 Think Mental Health WA Bodyboard Championships returned to the challenging reef of Gas Bay, showcasing the sport’s pioneers of slab surfing in conditions that really suited Western Australia’s toughest and most committed riders,” Carrol said.
“Competitors looked right at home in the raw energy of the Indian Ocean, delivering an impressive display of skill and commitment, and it was great to see a mix of experienced names and emerging talent stepping up across all divisions.”
Carrol also acknowledged the continued influence of leading competitors in driving the sport forward.
“Surfers like Chad Jackson, Ben Veitch, Jake Metcalfe and Kai de Legh continue to set the standard and inspire the next generation, which was great to see with strong participation in the Cadets division.”
The 2026 Think Mental Health WA Bodyboard Championships once again reinforced Western Australia’s reputation as a breeding ground for some of the country’s most skilled and committed bodyboarders.
THINK MENTAL HEALTH WA BODYBOARD CHAMPIONSHIP – FINAL RESULTS:
Open Mens:
1. Chad Jackson (Dunsborough)
2. Jake Metcalfe (Perth)
3. Ben Veitch (Margaret River)
4. Kai De Legh (Perth)
Under 16 Cadet Boys:
1. Paul Baur (Duncraig)
Drop Knee:
1. Barry Hammond (Dunsborough)
2. Joel Hughan (Yallingup)
Over 35 Masters:
1. Chad Jackson (Dunsborough)
2. Ben Veitch (Margaret River)
3. Tainan Monte (Atwell)
4. Bendan Gabel (Scarborough)
Over 45 Grand Masters:
1. Barry Hammond (Dunsborough)
2. Glen Schell (Mindarie)
About Think Mental Health:
Surfing WA and Healthway are committed to building a healthier, more connected surfing community. This partnership is about more than just events – it’s about ensuring every surfer feels supported, included, and empowered, both in and out of the water. Together, we’re riding the wave toward a stronger, more resilient surf culture. More info at: www.surfingwa.com.au/thinkmentalhealthwa
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