After 12 dedicated years with Surfing Queensland, long-serving staff member Alan Biggs is retiring. To celebrate his contribution and reflect on his journey, we sat down with Al for a Q&A, looking back on standout memories, proud achievements, and what surfing in Queensland means to him.
Q: Looking back on 12 years with Surfing Queensland, what moments stand out to you?
A: “In my early years, the Quiksilver Pro was a standout. It was a huge undertaking that involved months of planning, contractor wrangling, setup, running the event and packing it all down again. It was hectic, but exciting. In recent years, my focus and pride have shifted toward our grassroots events and creating more opportunities for Queensland’s next generation of surfers.”
Q: How have you seen surfing in Queensland evolve during your time with the organisation?
A: “We’ve continually needed to innovate! Developing new programs, systems and pathways to grow interest in surfing across the state. The landscape has changed a lot, but finding ways to keep people engaged in the sport has always been central to our mission.”
Q: What has been your favourite part of working in the Surfing Queensland community?
A: “Surfing has such a unique culture and it’s one of the best industries to work in. The people you meet are positive, passionate and incredibly easy to work with. That energy makes every day enjoyable.”
Q: What will you miss most about the day-to-day environment at SQ?
A: “Definitely the people. We have a fantastic team at SQ, and everyone works so well together. I’ll really miss the office environment and the incredible staff who make it special.”
Q: What are you most proud of contributing to SQ during your tenure?
A: “My role has changed many times over the years, but finance and governance have always been core responsibilities. The reporting and control systems we’ve implemented are now best practice, and I’m really proud of that. I’ve also loved supporting our clubs and surf schools along the way.”
Q: What advice would you give to the next generation of staff, coaches or athletes in Queensland?
A: “SQ is well on its way to becoming a more member-focused organisation, which is something we’ve wanted for a long time. The current team is the most customer-focused group I’ve seen here. My advice is simple: stay committed to that vision and continue building the best organisation we can be.”
Q: What does surfing and the surfing community mean to you personally?
A: “It means everything. The surfing community has been a huge part of my life for as long as I can remember. I still love getting in the water, and I’m looking forward to having even more time to do that now.”
Q: Do you have a message you’d like to leave for the Surfing Queensland community as you sign off?
A: “Surfing Queensland has always been driven by passion, and I want our community to know how committed this team is. Even as a small crew, they give absolutely everything to support our members, clubs and the broader surfing culture in Queensland. I hope everyone continues to get behind them, especially with plenty of exciting things ahead!”
On behalf of Surfing Queensland, we extend our heartfelt thanks to Alan for his 12 years of dedication, integrity and service. His contribution has helped shape our organisation and strengthened the surfing community across the state. We wish him all the best in his retirement and look forward to seeing him in the lineup for many years to come.
