Celebrations let rip

One of the Surf Coast’s biggest employers, Rip Curl, hosted its inaugural Excellence Awards Gala on Wednesday night.
The evening was dedicated to honouring the people behind the brand: the employees who work so hard to make Rip Curl the ultimate surfing company.
A company that’s never afraid of a good time, Rip Curl’s legendary themed Christmas parties and wild media nights for the Bells Beach pro surfing event have generated endless stories over the years.
No details are overlooked when founders and owners Brian Singer and Doug ‘Claw’ Warbrick to host an event.
The inaugural Excellence Awards Gala was no exception.
Employees walked into the Wyndham Hotel for the black-tie gala after trading wetsuits and salty hair for suits and gowns, ties and heels.
All the company’s executives and founders were present and in great spirits, ready to honour the men and women who made and continue to make Rip Curl what it is today.
Awards were handed out, speeches were made, glasses were chinked, and it couldn’t have been a better turnout.
The honoured employees were: Customer Service Award, Louise Conheady; Creativity and Innovation Award, Peter Coles; Committed Crew Award, Aaron Dunn; Community and Environment Award, Nathan Swan; Honesty and Integrity Award, Sarah Pont; Best Newcomer Award, Cole Rush; Unsung Hero Award, Dave Cleminson; Most Dynamic Crew Member Award, Brooke Farris; CEO Award, Shasta O’Loughlin.
“Congratulations to all of the winners at the gala,” Rip Curl’s management said.
“And to all present, we’re sure you had an evening to remember – we sure did!”