Another successful King of the Rocks event last weekend. It was supposed to rain at the golf, it didn’t. The surf was supposed to be flat, it wasn’t. Magic always seems to take the reigns for this event.
The Merewether Surfboard Club’s annual King of the Rocks surf event is inspired by the late Garry Callinan, held to remember those club members who are no longer with us and kick off a new season, with an emphasis on true community spirit.
Every year the club honours Gaz, the original King of the Rocks, celebrating good times, surfing and mateship. The event is run and enjoyed in the spirit of Garry and his amazing ability to love every aspect of life, while simultaneously remaining competitive and compassionate. Congrats to Jesse Adam for taking out the Twin Fin Comp this year in a tight tussle with Ryan and Jacko!
We had a chat with Gazs’ son, Ryan Callinan. Ryan is a true Merewether local & grew up on Ranclaud, one street behind The Beaches. Ryan has carved his path through the surfing world, and is now a renowned championship tour surfer. He’s one to look up to – his strength is nothing short of inspiring.
CHAT WITH RYAN CALLINAN
WHAT’S ON THE CARDS FOR YOU THIS YEAR? WHAT ARE YOU MOST EXCITED ABOUT IN 2025?
This year will be another year on the world tour for me, lots of travelling to amazing places to surf and compete at some of the best waves in the world. I am so excited as they have added a few new stops and brought back some old favourites, Abu Dhabi wave pool will be especially unique and interesting. But overall just looking forward to some new adventures and spending time with my family.
WE’RE SO STOKED TO HAVE YOU ON BOARD! TELL US ABOUT YOUR FAVOURITE MEMORY AT TBH?
The Beaches holds a special place in my heart so I am so happy to be apart of it. I grew up the street behind the pub so my favourite memories would be family dinners every week up here when we were growing up, usually a lot of familiar faces and great people to see!
YOU’RE SNEAKIN’ IN FOR A QUICK BEVVIE – WHAT ARE YOU ORDERING FROM US AT THE BAR?
I love a pale ale so depending what’s on tap I would try and go for something in that area.
WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT BETWEEN SETS?
Between sets changes based on the day but most just what’s been happening in my life or what’s coming up. I usually get distracted or hopefully having a funny conversation or joke around with a mate.
BEST WAVE YOU’VE EVER JAGGED?
Best wave I’ve ever had is a very hard, I can’t pinpoint one exact ride but I had one a Teahupo’o last year that was very memorable. Plus, a wave from cloud-break this year that I will never forget!
GIVE A SHOUT OUT TO SOME EPIC GROMS – WHO ARE SOME LOCAL JUNIORS TO KEEP AN EYE ON?
There are so many good little groms down at the beach! I just love seeing them all out there and trying to push themselves and each other. I love surfing with them it gets me so amped!
THIS WEEKEND HAS A SPECIAL PLACE IN YOUR HEART – TELL US WHAT THE KING OF THE ROCKS EVENT MEANS TO YOU?
King of the Rocks is very special to me. Just to do some of the things that dad loved to do with people who loved him is such a great way to honour him. Heckling on the golf course and laughing out in the surf, it’s always such a good vibe and everyone is in great spirits.