The Lorne Surf Life Saving Club is thrilled to welcome back swimmers, runners, and spectators to the Powercor Lorne Pier to Pub and Mountain to Surf, two celebrated surf coast events that highlight the power of community and sport. On January 10 and 11 2025, the 45th annual Pier to Pub and Mountain to Surf will bring together participants from across the country, showcasing Lorne's vibrant spirit, led by the dedicated volunteers from the Lorne Surf Life Saving Club (SLSC).
Newly appointed Race Director, and veteran racer Peter Williamson describes the impact the events have on the local community, stating: "These aren't just races, they're a testament to the dedication and passion of the Lorne community and our surf club. We're looking forward to welcoming participants of all abilities and celebrating the people involved that make these events so special."
Held annually on the second weekend of January, the Pier to Pub and Mountain to Surf celebrate their longstanding tradition of athletic challenge, camaraderie, and fundraising for beach safety. Supported by Powercor, the Pier to Pub is the largest open-water swim in Australia, attracting over 5,000 competitors and over 25,000 spectators to the small coastal town. The weekend begins with the Mountain to Surf trail run on Friday, January 10, followed by the Pier to Pub swim on Saturday, January 11.
Heath Armstrong, President of the Lorne Surf Life Saving Club and Lorne local, adds, "Our goal is to offer a safe, inclusive, and memorable experience that showcases Lorne, the dedication of our lifesaving volunteers, and the inspiring enthusiasm of our community. These events continue to raise awareness for water safety and to sustain our club's vital work."
The Pier to Pub and Mountain to Surf events have drawn elite athletes, including returning champion Lani Pallister, who will compete for her sixth consecutive win in the 'Superfish' category. The Pier to Pub swim average finish time is 22 minutes, with a record set at just 10 minutes and 2 seconds by Sam Sheppard in 2016. Runners in the Mountain to Surf, which spans 8 km across forested trails and the iconic Great Ocean Road, are likewise inspired by the physicalness and challenges the race presents.
The 2025 events also celebrate the sixth year of Powercor as the principal sponsor, aligning to the company's commitment to supporting community. General Manager of Powercor, Scott Russell describes the importance of supporting water safety and volunteer lifesaving services in Lorne saying, "We're proud to be extending our partnership with such an iconic event and just like surf lifesavers at Lorne and along the Surf Coast, our lineys along the Great Ocean Road and Otways are essential to the communities that they live and work in."
Scott Russell continues, "Having first joined forces in 2020, we've found a shared commitment with Lorne Surf Life Saving Club to unite people across the community and bring visitors from greater Melbourne to our backyard, to experience this great weekend."
As volunteer-led events, the Pier to Pub and Mountain to Surf would not be possible without the contributions of the SLSC community and the ongoing support from key sponsors such as Powercor. Proceeds made from the event go directly to the Lorne SLSC to assist with the maintenance of water safety along the surf coast.
With an open invitation to swimmers and runners of all levels, these two events are a celebration of getting active and participating in a welcoming, fun-filled weekend. The events embody a mission to encourage Victorians to embrace fitness, get moving, and experience Lorne's complete offering.
Key Dates and Registration Information
- Entries Open: November 4, 2024, with early bird pricing
- Early Bird Pricing Ends: December 1, 2024
- Mountain to Surf Race: Friday, January 10, 8:30 am
- Pier to Pub Swim: Saturday, January 11, 11:00 am
- Ticket Prices: Mountain to Surf - $65 (adults), $55 (juniors); Pier to Pub - $80 (all ages)
