1976 A Brief History of SW Surfing

***Post updated 18 Nov 2025 – additional material from 1976 Spring Title Program added**

The Western Australian Surf Riders Assoc (WASRA), incorporated in 1964, published ‘A Brief History of SW Surfing’ in the 1976 Spring Titles Souvenir Program. The publication included a disclaimer that some material may need further verification.

The Spring Titles Souvenir Program cover featured a photo of Margaret River surfer Rick Gath (1956-2023). Ric was amongst the first wave of young WA surfers to pioneer big wave riding in the Margaret River region. In 1988 he designed the original Gath helmet for surfers, sailors, white water paddlers, kite boarders, skydivers and rescue services. RIP Rick.

1976 Ric Gath surfing MGM (Aka Bears) on front cover Spring Titles Program. Image courtesy of WASRA.

1976 WASRA’s ‘A Brief History of SW Surfing’ Page #1.

1976 WASRA’s ‘A Brief History of SW Surfing’ Page #2.

1976 How Big Does it Get? Courtesy of WASRA Spring Titles Program.

1976 WASRA’s Spring Titles program. WASRA office bearers & State Team and Ashby Butchers Dunsborough advertisement.

1964-1976 WASRA’s Spring Titles program. 1976/77 contest schedule & Clifford Automotive Transmissions advertisement.

1964-1976 WASRA’s Spring Titles program. Past Contest Winners.

1976 advertisers in Spring Titles Program #1. Images courtesy of WASRA.

1976 advertisers in Spring Titles Program #2. Images courtesy of WASRA.

1976 advertisers in Spring Titles Program #3. Images courtesy of WASRA.

Bonus WASRA pics

1976 Front of Arty Sherburn’s WASRA Membership Card. Photo courtesy Arty Sherburn RIP.

1976 Back of Arty Sherburn’s WASRA Membership Card. Photo courtesy Arty Sherburn RIP.

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