Photo: Surfing Australia
Surfing Australia recently announced that Chris Mater will be stepping down as the organization’s Chief Executive Officer. As of October 31, 2025, Mater will vacate the role.
“I joined this purpose-driven organization to make a difference in the sport of surfing – for surfers, our members, and Australia’s coastal communities,” reflected Mater. “I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved together, and the results have exceeded my expectations. It’s been an honor to serve this amazing sport.”
During his time as CEO, Mater was instrumental in building up the Australian High-Performance Program. The press release also advertised that under his tenure, Surfing Australia grew to 54 full and part-time staffers and achieved strong eight-figure revenues.
“On behalf of the Board, I want to thank Chris for his service to Surfing Australia” said Adrian Buchan, Chair of the Board. “Chris leaves us with a strong financial platform for the future. We are focused on strengthening relationships with our key partners and stakeholders, continuing to provide the best pathway for our athletes and investing in the sport at a grassroots level.”
Mater’s departure was bittersweet. “It’s never easy to step away from something you love,” he added. “This organization and our community mean the world to me. I want to thank the entire Surfing Australia team, our members, surfers, partners, and the two remarkable chairs I’ve had the privilege to serve under—Layne Beachley and Ace Buchan. To each of the Surfing Australia Board of Directors for their steady leadership, and to the wider surfing community for their incredible support over the past seven years. No matter what, I’ll always be in the lineup, supporting surfing.”
Until a successor is found, Surfing Australia Chairman Buchan will step into the role of Acting Chief Executive Officer. The press release also advertised that they are accepting applications for the CEO position, so start polishing up those resumes.
