URBNSURF opens again today

Stu Nettle picture
Stu Nettle (stunet)
Swellnet Dispatch

Relief for Melbourne surfers!

Following the Victorian government's announcement to ease lockdown restrictions, URBNSURF has drawn up a schedule of sessions and thrown open the doors. They open, however, with a few caveats including locality - only surfers who live within 25kms of the park can surf - and masks must be worn except when surfing.

This week the opening times are as follows:

  • On Wednesday, October 21st: From 6am-10am, and 4pm-9pm.
  • On Thursday, October 22nd: From 6am-10am, and 4pm-9pm.
  • On Friday, October 23rd (Grand Final Public Holiday): From 6am-10pm.
  • On Saturday, October 24th (Grand Final): From 6am-7pm.

From Sunday, October 25th onwards they'll open from 6am-10pm. Click here to see their timetable.

The park’s reopening will see URBNSURF fire up two new surf sessions - Cruiser and Expert. The former is designed for novice surfers who enjoy riding pointbreak-style waves on a longboard or fish, while the latter delivers slabbing barrels for experienced riders. Each was sharpened up during the COVID downtime.

Damon Tudor, URBNSURF Group CEO, said “We’re excited to welcome Melburnians for some much-needed stress relief and surf time in our lagoon. After what has been a challenging year, we’re stoked to provide surfers, families, and friends with the opportunity to get outdoors, reconnect, and enjoy perfect waves in a COVID-safe  environment.” 

While initially only surfing guests will be permitted, as restrictions ease further spectator visits will resume, and more of the surf park’s areas and amenities will open.

Visit URBNSURF online to make your bookings.

 

Comments

domenicokellett's picture
domenicokellett's picture
domenicokellett Wednesday, 21 Oct 2020 at 7:01am

What r the surf stages? For urbnsurf cause if there’s a pro one I’ll do that one

wallpaper's picture
wallpaper's picture
wallpaper Wednesday, 21 Oct 2020 at 8:59am

it'll do you more like it

aussieguy's picture
aussieguy's picture
aussieguy Wednesday, 21 Oct 2020 at 10:27am

After all this time in lock down and with no winter surfing under my belt, I'm thinking cruiser mode for me.

fishnsurf's picture
fishnsurf's picture
fishnsurf Wednesday, 21 Oct 2020 at 11:12am

Did they heat the water up too ?

Bnkref's picture
Bnkref's picture
Bnkref Wednesday, 21 Oct 2020 at 2:47pm

Water is 18 degrees at the moment apparently. So it doesn't sound like it's heated, but that's a few degrees warmer than the bay and surf beaches.

I'm there on Saturday and thinking an old 3/2 will cut it.

Frodge's picture
Frodge's picture
Frodge Wednesday, 21 Oct 2020 at 4:22pm

Bnkref
Water temp is significantly impacted by ambient temperature, due to the extensive mixing. Sat is a cooler day with strong SW winds.
Waves will still be awesome, but u may want to rethink using an old 3/2 - unless u have a nice buffer of natural insulation.
Enjoy

Dx3's picture
Dx3's picture
Dx3 Wednesday, 21 Oct 2020 at 5:13pm

Agree with that Frodge - I surfed it in March in an old 3/2 at 6pm on a day with a decent SW blowing. I was pretty cold by the end more so from the wind I think from memory than the water. An old 4/3 or a new-ish 3/2 probably a better option in Saturday's predicted weather.

Bnkref's picture
Bnkref's picture
Bnkref Wednesday, 21 Oct 2020 at 5:23pm

Good points lads, thanks.

anthony.olsen's picture
anthony.olsen's picture
anthony.olsen Thursday, 22 Oct 2020 at 12:02pm

I surfed it last night in a warm 3/2 - prob 18 degrees in the evening after a warmish day and a decent onshore blowing that dropped over time. Felt the chill waiting for the session but since the walls are so high once I was in and paddling around it was fine and wind chill wasn't a factor.

Appreciated the added flexibility of the 3/2 rather than the extra warmth.

OHV500's picture
OHV500's picture
OHV500 Wednesday, 21 Oct 2020 at 11:13am

$128.00 for an hour ????

truebluebasher's picture
truebluebasher's picture
truebluebasher Sunday, 8 Nov 2020 at 2:27am

Victoria has the most Heated Wave Pools in the World.
Vic has the largest built wave choice in the World
Prices range from $8 Day Entry fee = 50c/hr (Heated)-$128hr (Non heated)
Notice Wave, Pool & Price all equally increased with time. (tbb was surprised!)

Vic are mad keen wave fans & pay more each year for bigger Waves & Pools.
Vic Flat water Swim centres use 'Wave' brand name to compete with wave pools.
tbb is learning more each day...blows yer mind...that Vic are World Wave Pool Leaders.

NT example is added to gauge Oz wide high standard Wave Pool evolution.
SA/SLSA/ILS endorsed Darwin Wave Lagoon Resort ( 90c /hr ) popular Wave Value
https://www.topendshortstays.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/IOB066834...
https://www.surfparkcentral.com/the-art-of-the-saltless-surf-school-less...

Victoria's Heated Wave Pool Timeline / Location / Admission / Wave Type

1995 Melton Waves (75c/hr) Middle break-Shorie
https://www.weekendnotes.com/images/melton-waves.jpg

1997 MSAC Wave Grotto ($1.25c / hr) (Slam shorie)
https://ru-clip.net/video/hZEFnfI3PpQ/bodysurfing-msac.html

2000 Mildura Waves (50c/hr) Whippy A Frames
https://www.localfitness.com.au/images/centres/2981/2981_front_mildura-w...

2000 Casey Arc Wave Spa. ($1hr) (Inshore Rampz)
https://dynamic.activeactivities.com.au/files/listings/1/7/7/33177/image...

2001 Monash Mosh Pit ($1hr) (Oz 1st Body/'Board' Wave Pool) Runners.

2012/18 MSAC ($2hr) SA /ASP Pro approved Flow Wave >>(2019 Gumbuya)
https://www.xpetition.com/en_AU/petition/a-call-to-save-the-msac-flowrid...

2018 Volcano Beach ($4hr) Break wall Lineups + A Frames.
https://www.parkz.com.au/cache/photo/individual_photo/general/2020/03/2b...

2019 Gumbuya WavePool ($4hr) Breakwalls +A Frames (incl. SA/ASP Flow Rider)
https://family-travels-wp.s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/~familytr/wp-c...

2020 Urbnsurf Wave Pool ($25-$128 hr) 'Hot Tubs' -Beastly Olympic Wave Pool
https://res.cloudinary.com/adrenalinecomau/image/upload/q_auto,f_auto/v1...
"Should've been here yesterday mode to Beast mode.


https://urbnsurf.com/

truebluebasher's picture
truebluebasher's picture
truebluebasher Wednesday, 21 Oct 2020 at 12:04pm

#1 Lockdown State...takes extra day off for an Event, that only they are banned from?
Staring into the Abyss...Gotta hand to Vics...That's some dedication to the cause.

Considering Scomo left Vics Drafty Window wide open for his Kiwi Invasion.
It's only fair that Vic baby sitters Qld ...Gets a Go at crashing PM's VIP Pool Party!

Drafty Pick 1.
Qldurrz will trade AFL Grand Final for Urbnsurf Fuck the Locals Qld Public Holiday.

Drafty Pick 2.
Qld will swap Goldie Logies for an Urbnsurf Melbourne Cup Holiday

PS : Qld salute Cousin Vic & Urbnsurf for doin' the hard yards to protect Australia.
Get well soon! Good Luck with Wave 4 or whatever other sanitized head dipping.

memlasurf's picture
memlasurf's picture
memlasurf Wednesday, 21 Oct 2020 at 12:43pm

My son and his mates booked in for 2 sessions Monday with the hope it all opens up (looks good only 3 more with the clapper today). Advanced and super advanced (whatever that is). I am going along as old fart mascot.

freeride76's picture
freeride76's picture
freeride76 Wednesday, 21 Oct 2020 at 12:52pm

not gunna surf it Memla?

memlasurf's picture
memlasurf's picture
memlasurf Wednesday, 21 Oct 2020 at 2:26pm

Yep I am in for better or worse $79 for the first session and $129 for the soopadoopa. Was a hoot last Feb when I went with the guys so hoping for a repeat. Taking two boards a Slater scifi and a Balin Ferrari might rent a helmet for the 2nd rinse.

Rex Stucki's picture
Rex Stucki's picture
Rex Stucki Wednesday, 21 Oct 2020 at 3:17pm

I live 28kms away :(((

goofyfoot's picture
goofyfoot's picture
goofyfoot Thursday, 22 Oct 2020 at 6:09am

They won’t check Rex, get there man

Patrick0710's picture
Patrick0710's picture
Patrick0710 Monday, 26 Oct 2020 at 11:58am

Rex
The radius reaches further than if you put in directions in google maps to check the distance. Get amongst it!
there's a good boy.

Chris T's picture
Chris T's picture
Chris T Wednesday, 21 Oct 2020 at 4:41pm

Surfed around torquay all winter and spring due to restrictions. its being very crowded thats without melbourne.. due to no uni and no interstate travel and overseas and no work and every one taking up a new hobbie... cannot park at immpossos some days.. once poor melbourne is set free.. it will be an interesting time that has never been seen before.. the pool sounds like a great option..it will be crazy here. cant blame ya though..

sheep shagger's picture
sheep shagger's picture
sheep shagger Wednesday, 21 Oct 2020 at 6:51pm

Yep.... hundreds of caged Melbourne surfers coming your way!

Most of us haven't seen a wave in 7 months... and have gone half bonkers... so I apologise in advance!

Patrick0710's picture
Patrick0710's picture
Patrick0710 Wednesday, 21 Oct 2020 at 6:57pm

Gonna be like Apocalypse Now when the Playboy bunnies had to get choppered out.
And yep, advance apologies from me, too.

SI's picture
SI's picture
SI Wednesday, 21 Oct 2020 at 8:16pm

Don’t worry sheep shagger, you haven’t missed a lot this winter- worst year I can ever remember for swell and I’m long in tooth. Lots of shitty waves. I’ve heard a couple of people froth here and there but the reality is it’s been a shit year for surf on average in Vic. So a good time to catch up on other creative things , but sheep shagging is not advised- not even our Aussie fine wool merinos!!

Lachy McDonald's picture
Lachy McDonald's picture
Lachy McDonald Wednesday, 21 Oct 2020 at 9:04pm

Hi SI,
Don’t mean to be rude - but it’s been a shit year for the surf coast right?
All other Victorian coastlines have enjoyed moderate swells, light winds and mild weather.
Phillip island, peninsula, Otways and west, and east Gippsland have all been great I believe.

geek's picture
geek's picture
geek Thursday, 22 Oct 2020 at 7:45am

Yep correct, been a cracking year for everywhere except surf coast.

sheep shagger's picture
sheep shagger's picture
sheep shagger Wednesday, 21 Oct 2020 at 10:18pm

With the 5km rule in place those merinos could sleep well... now it's been extended to 25km I can't promise anything.

fishnsurf's picture
fishnsurf's picture
fishnsurf Thursday, 22 Oct 2020 at 12:59pm

Yeah, Why can't they heat it ?
At least take the chill off it ?
I don't own a steamer on the Goldy and my springy just won't cut it i don't think.
And what about a surf cam ?
Would be fun to sit and watch it like I watch all the others .

Bnkref's picture
Bnkref's picture
Bnkref Thursday, 22 Oct 2020 at 1:02pm

It's a large body of water. Much, much bigger than an Olympic sized pool and it's quite deep in parts. So it would take a truckload of energy to heat it. Too expensive and energy intensive I would have thought.

fishnsurf's picture
fishnsurf's picture
fishnsurf Thursday, 22 Oct 2020 at 1:08pm

A few solar panels connected to a heater would certainly make a difference.

Nolan's picture
Nolan's picture
Nolan Thursday, 22 Oct 2020 at 8:20pm

Energy issue aside, another problem of heating above ambient temperature is evaporation. Wouldn't make financial sense. While I've not been this week, it would have to be above 15C and if you have an issue with that, well . . . perhaps stay home in front of the heater and watch the footy.

Hiccups's picture
Hiccups's picture
Hiccups Friday, 23 Oct 2020 at 12:03pm

Jeez. How soft are you people?

udo's picture
udo's picture
udo Friday, 23 Oct 2020 at 12:13pm

A few thousand solar panels

pointy's picture
pointy's picture
pointy Thursday, 22 Oct 2020 at 9:31pm

Hopefully the banks are still good :)

tubeshooter's picture
tubeshooter's picture
tubeshooter Thursday, 22 Oct 2020 at 10:51pm

Water temp? .. some advice..

SurferSam's picture
SurferSam's picture
SurferSam Friday, 23 Oct 2020 at 4:53pm

The good thing about the heat absorption of a small body of water like urbnsurf is it will be a few degrees warmer than the ocean in summer

truebluebasher's picture
truebluebasher's picture
truebluebasher Saturday, 24 Oct 2020 at 10:20pm

swellnet crew salute Urbnsurf for being so swell to acknowledge feature.
All here prefer more surf stoke & this is cool as it helps the crew & Wave Pools.
Returning the goodwill...swellnet crew are stoked with Urbnsurf waves as well.
https://www.facebook.com/pg/urbnsurf/posts/?ref=page_internal

Qldurrz can't help notice the Boardriderz in head 2 toe Hoodies & Booties.
Standing alongside Male & Female Lifeguards in shorts?
Salute Urbnsurf swiftwater rescue...the real ironmen/women.

Wave Pool lifeguards / operators measure or note Wave Pool tide changes.
Crew will return kind gesture with a "guide" to better wavepool surfing.
Can't promise high quality but it's the thought that counts...again (A guide only)

tbb dedicates the 'Wave Pool Tide Charts' to Wave Garden Pro Joanne Dennison...
Aug 2018 Surf Snowdonia Resident Pro reveals Wave Pool tides...(tbb had no idea!)
https://wavepoolmag.com/surf-snowdonia-resident-pro-jo-dennison/

Wavegarden Tide Charts allow Wavepool Surfers to book sessions to suit fav' tides.
Sure! It may sound odd that Wave Pools have tides.
Seasonal Wave Pools tide regime can amplify ocean tide effects.
WP Tides change by Weather / Flush / Crowd Numbers / Surfer Ability / Wave Mode.

Using these Tide Charts should provide Surfers with best Wave Pool surfing options.
This info can graph a basic daily tide & wave size graph for each season to share?

*Daily Tide Height ( Flow Charts Courtesy of The Wave )

(Bristol) Beginner 0.8m > Waikiki / Inter'M 0.9m > Adv 1.5m > Adv+ / Expert > 2m.

tbb : Urbnsurf Guide ( approx - unofficial & unauthorised ) Study purpose only!
UK modes as to Oz..this is strictly a like for like interpretation...(Feel free to correct!)

(Melbourne) Beginner 0.8m > Cruiser 0.9m > Intermediate/Adv 1.5m > Expert 2m

Wavepool Operators time tides by Seasonal weather.

*Seasonal Tide Changes (Are supplied by Wave Pool industry whole) Approx Only!
(Note: Past lining tears also required Full Flush empty - Refills)

Peak Weather Event (*Mould?) tbb notes UK Municipal water supply > OHS.(Empty!)
https://euphoric-threads.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/EuphoricThreads_...
Peak Weather Event ( Dust / Mud ) Full Flush Tidal Change
https://images.s.7news.com.au/publication/C-660936/d371b76653621289e80fb...

Summer drought -Loss 1.5m / day ( Extreme level tide regime )
Torrential Rain - Full Top Up / day ( Extreme Level tide regime )
Winter Sun loss ( Min tide regime )

Wave Pool operators time & alternate Daily Tides (Modes) to suit Seasonal Tides.

Tide Charts Shown Here are supplied courtesy of Urbnsurf Melbourne
Notice : Hrs (7am - 5pm) > (6am -9pm) Daily outgoing tides have changed...
(tues/thurs -still pair) as do other days + higher o/n + am tides have switched.

So tbb...why is this so important to Wave Pools?

Winter had higher tide big waves 47 sessions/wk (vs) low tide small waves = 30/wk
This means Pros or expert surfers had ample choice to premium Winter sessions.

Spring tide > High tide -Big waves 47/wk (vs) Low tide -Small waves = 59/wk.
This means Pros or Expert surfers must book in advance for big wave Spring Break.
Whereas Learners rule with ample choice for small wave time tides during the day!

More importantly it may suggest that 47/wk is max Big Wave sessions for Melbourne.
We all see Summer evaporating big daytime Waves > crowding thirsty a/h sessions.
Crew can see how tides rule Wave Pools more than the Surf. (Exactly! ...Who Knew!)
Wave Pool tide time charts are every bit as valuable for locals to squeeze in a session!

*2020 OZ Winter Hibernation ( Beastly Tide Chart)
https://www.facebook.com/urbnsurf/photos/a.1749473495265635/269596611728...

2020 OZ Spring Collection (Tide's Out Timetable)
https://scontent.fbne5-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/p960x960/122134272_28080...

Q:Do Tides affect Wave Height...(Yes) High Tide = Bigger (vs) Low Tide =Smaller
Q:Do Tides affect Wave Speed ...(No) Not travel speed (Yes) Face Speed changes.
Q:Do tides affect Wave Length ...(Yes) Higher Tides wash waves over & rebound.
Q:Do tides affect Wave Travel Time (Yes) Machine / Bathymetry do govern though!
(re: UK Photo) Note UK Wave measures come with mould (devil & deep blue sea).
UK wave length modes presumably measure Low Tide 12 secs > High Tide 15 secs
Q:Do Weather Events Govern Wave Modes / Crowds (Yes!) Tides dictate Crowds.
eg: Heavy Rain boosts Pro Settings (vs) Evaporation (Midday) suits Learner settings.

Outflow (Excluding evaporation) = slower tide (vs) Inflow = faster tide (eg: Wales)
Operator's tidal regime is also governed by Municipal supply / environmental runoff.

swellnet crew thank Wavegarden Bristol / Melbourne for Tide Time Charts (Brilliant)
Feel free to mix & match to better enjoy or to score your ultimate Wave Pool session.

PS: Most importantly it's a valuable safety tool to match Surfer's ability!

memlasurf's picture
memlasurf's picture
memlasurf Tuesday, 27 Oct 2020 at 10:34am

Update gents if you go, go expert that new mode is a shed load of fun. We surfed the advanced first which was fun when the tubes started but the expert was much better. Only 12 in the pool so a wave each every set and they are really fun little slabs, I was completely shagged by the end of the second session. Forget all the other modes, got Beast 4 (or B4) as they are referring to it. Worth the $129 and you will be knackered at the end.

Hiccups's picture
Hiccups's picture
Hiccups Tuesday, 27 Oct 2020 at 10:37am

I'm booked for expert soon. Take off is the same as advanced yeah?

memlasurf's picture
memlasurf's picture
memlasurf Tuesday, 27 Oct 2020 at 10:42am

I think so, I was so cooked halfway through the session that I was just trying to hang in there. Seemed similar maybe steeper and the barrel happens just after the take off. You will have a ball but get fit!

Hiccups's picture
Hiccups's picture
Hiccups Tuesday, 27 Oct 2020 at 10:59am

Cooked my MCL surfing it the day before they shut for lockdown and it's still NQR but I have been keeping fit. Hard as that's been in these times of just wanting to comfort eat. Gonna surf advanced next week and feel it out. If it's still fucked I'm gonna have to sell off my expert session.

memlasurf's picture
memlasurf's picture
memlasurf Tuesday, 27 Oct 2020 at 11:12am

Bummer, yeah you need to be able to jump to you feet quickly as there is no real push in the take off, it is just the volume of water bending. I got slammed plenty of times but tried to fall as flat as possible and didn't hit the concrete although my son got slammed on his back and is sore but OK. Good luck.

Dx3's picture
Dx3's picture
Dx3 Tuesday, 27 Oct 2020 at 1:23pm

Yeh the take-off in the advanced session barrel setting is really weak, had heaps miss it in the session I was in on the weekend, missed it myself a couple of times too. In advanced you gotta be paying attention as it goes from a steep take-off on the turn waves to a weak small little take-off for the barrel. You basically take off and get a tight bottom turn in, then set yourself super low for the tube.

Hiccups's picture
Hiccups's picture
Hiccups Tuesday, 27 Oct 2020 at 2:05pm

How was the water temp? 3/2?

Dx3's picture
Dx3's picture
Dx3 Tuesday, 27 Oct 2020 at 2:08pm

I was in there when it was howling SW and raining on the weekend, so I wore an old 4/3 with a couple leaks and it was perfect. A 3/2 in decent condition would be fine.

Hiccups's picture
Hiccups's picture
Hiccups Tuesday, 27 Oct 2020 at 2:22pm

Shweet as.

memlasurf's picture
memlasurf's picture
memlasurf Tuesday, 27 Oct 2020 at 2:40pm

Not bad at all around 16º maybe 17º warmer than the ocean at the moment. 3/2 was fine and I wore a head suit as I have a gentle cranium. There was one guy with boardies and wettie top and another guy in a short arm steamer and they weren't shivering but they weren't 61 years old. The killer was the howling easterly so it was just wind chill more than anything. Almost offshore conditions in the tub though and blowing into the righthander.

Stok's picture
Stok's picture
Stok Tuesday, 27 Oct 2020 at 10:17pm

Good feedback re. expert. I've got a gold membership so have 2 x expert sessions to use up per year.

Only gone advanced and was never that blown away by the turns wave (fun but generally too boggy for me, could never link it up that well). Always frothed on the barrel mode and had it pretty dialed pre-covid.

Post covid however...far out I'm a kook! Give it time I guess....

Frodge's picture
Frodge's picture
Frodge Wednesday, 28 Oct 2020 at 7:57pm

G’day Memlasurf
I thought B4 was the barrel setting in advanced?
Before lockdown, in offshore conditions, I thought they were running 1/3 turns, 1/3 B2 setting (barrels) and then finished off final 1/3 with B4.
I thought expert was 1/3 B4, then 1/3 beast, then if offshore final 1/3 beast plus
Do you know how many wave variations u had in your expert session?

memlasurf's picture
memlasurf's picture
memlasurf Wednesday, 28 Oct 2020 at 8:42pm

No idea about variations as it was wave after wave and all barrels and one of the young guys that worked there when I said it was a so much fun he mumbled something about B4.

Frodge's picture
Frodge's picture
Frodge Wednesday, 28 Oct 2020 at 8:55pm

Cheers, Sounds like you had a ball.

I'm booked for the 9th - hanging for a wave.

freeride76's picture
freeride76's picture
freeride76 Wednesday, 28 Oct 2020 at 6:28am

2 per year?

so you have to pay for them after that?

how does that work?

Stok's picture
Stok's picture
Stok Wednesday, 28 Oct 2020 at 10:32am

They brought in expert mode in June, and as far as I know all gold and foundation members got 2 x expert sessions added to their booking dashboard. Seems to be on top of the allowance you already get. I didn't surf the pool through June so haven't tried it.

So it's $259 per month for 50 x advanced sessions per year + 2 x expert sessions. Not cheap by any means but my work has a 'health and wellbeing' allowance which i put towards this....brings it down to about $45 per session for me which is palatable.

freeride76's picture
freeride76's picture
freeride76 Wednesday, 28 Oct 2020 at 11:47am

wow. so $3108 per year to run a surf program in Melbourne based on the wave pool.

Plus ocean trips, OS trips, wetsuits, boards etc etc.

fcuk, thats expensive.

my expenditure this year on surf was a $300 wetty and maybe $20-40/month on fuel.

Anyone else doing the 3 grand a year thing?

Is it good value? ....apart from Covid obviously.

memlasurf's picture
memlasurf's picture
memlasurf Wednesday, 28 Oct 2020 at 9:00pm

I think it is still heaps cheaper than a quality Golf membership which a shed load of people in Melbourne have. Very different lifestyle living in a major city than Lennox and it has it up sides without Covid, though the place has been really depressing as a ghost town. I think the price it is also close to some yacht clubs. I work with a barrister who goes out before work to get a session in (he surfed when he was young). He now has boys old enough to take along and they are hooked on surfing, so much so he has rented a house at Lorne for a year and is going to work from there. If you have a decent job and earning a good quid, it isn't too ridiculous, though I would never pay it as I live near real waves. Surf wise Freeride, you are definitely in a great possie in Lennox (I think?) which is your choice of surf lifestyle vs professional career. You got the surf but not the cash which sounds pretty good to me!

lostdoggy's picture
lostdoggy's picture
lostdoggy Wednesday, 28 Oct 2020 at 12:29pm

If you have the disposable income, sure.

Stok's picture
Stok's picture
Stok Wednesday, 28 Oct 2020 at 2:03pm

It aint cheap being a Melb surfer. Fuel cost down the coast is $20-$40 depending on how and what you drive.

I do hear crew here talking about getting a few sessions in a week at the pool....crazy stuff.

The way I justify the pool membership is based on the following:
- I get that little boost from my work to drop the cost
- I'd be paying extra in fuel to get the extra session in a week anyway
- If I was living in Sydney I'd be paying more in rent to be close to crowded waves
- If I was living closer to rural surf I couldn't necessarily do my job like I do now (although covid and WFH may change that)

Definitely would like to be living and be more set up on the coast by the waves, but I never came from a surfing family background, and have always been a city dweller. Maybe, depending on where I end up with my family, my kids might have it different. Although for me the coastal towns are changing so much now (gentrifying).

freeride76's picture
freeride76's picture
freeride76 Wednesday, 28 Oct 2020 at 2:28pm

what line of work are you in Stok, not specifics, just broad strokes?

Blowin's picture
Blowin's picture
Blowin Wednesday, 28 Oct 2020 at 2:43pm

Freeride....was it yourself who sent me that property sale via Stunet ?

Looked pretty incredible.

stunet's picture
stunet's picture
stunet Wednesday, 28 Oct 2020 at 2:48pm

'Twas Mr Udoski.

Blowin's picture
Blowin's picture
Blowin Wednesday, 28 Oct 2020 at 2:57pm

Cheers. Was my first assumption.

Stok's picture
Stok's picture
Stok Wednesday, 28 Oct 2020 at 3:49pm

Building industry, in engineering.

I was sold the ideals that going to uni and getting a good career will give you the financial freedoms to do what you want! They just didn't tell me that I'll be stuck working my arse off close to the city, when it seems the older I get the more I'd rather be surfing hah!

Gary G's picture
Gary G's picture
Gary G Wednesday, 28 Oct 2020 at 2:42pm

Gary's moneymaker generates enough business to support a pool membership. Thankfully his earning potential wasn't too impacted by social distancing as he likes to keep the fans at least 1.5M away (which equates to 1.8m from his torso) during his paid performances (some of them get a bit crazy); but that's a story for another time.

When the pool opened, Gary bought a multipack and had a blast. Upgraded to a full membership just before the second wave hit and is looking forward to getting back in the tub.

Gary lives in Melbourne, has 3 Gary G Jrs running around the place, and between family & work his surf patterns see him surfing at dawn 1-2 times a week (it's roughly a 4-5 hour round trip inc. water time). The tub is an opportunity to get more sessions in, and tune up technique, in parcels of time that wouldn't be viable for a trip to the coast. Keeping the blade sharp, as it were.

Blowin's picture
Blowin's picture
Blowin Wednesday, 28 Oct 2020 at 2:45pm

How many rings on the Gary G tree ?

Or is the lifespan of Gary G measured in the varying shades of lippy on the shaft ?

Hiccups's picture
Hiccups's picture
Hiccups Wednesday, 28 Oct 2020 at 3:10pm

Tree? Gary G? Remember Gary Green singing that song about rubber johnnies from a rubber tree in that one The Search video?

kaiser's picture
kaiser's picture
kaiser Wednesday, 28 Oct 2020 at 9:53pm

Now we know Gary frequents the tub, might have to add a few topical remedies to the overall cost. Lest they up the chlorine

GONAD_MAN's picture
GONAD_MAN's picture
GONAD_MAN Thursday, 29 Oct 2020 at 10:06am

Hi guys. Have booked in for a an Advanced session at the tub for next week 4pm . Roughly what time do you have to be there, before your session starts.

Hiccups's picture
Hiccups's picture
Hiccups Thursday, 29 Oct 2020 at 10:12am

Half an hour is good. Earlier if you have to hire gear.

Bnkref's picture
Bnkref's picture
Bnkref Thursday, 29 Oct 2020 at 1:27pm

If it's your first go there, I'd say 45 minutes. Give yourself a chance to check it out and not be rushed. It's quite a surreal experience the first time.

Joeseph's picture
Joeseph's picture
Joeseph Thursday, 29 Oct 2020 at 2:31pm

Definitely agree on getting there a bit early - pretty surreal walking around and checking it all out for the first time.

Anyone know if guests are allowed in now or is only those surfing?

Stok's picture
Stok's picture
Stok Thursday, 29 Oct 2020 at 3:19pm

Yeah guests are allowed now

Mr.Tee on a long board's picture
Mr.Tee on a long board's picture
Mr.Tee on a lon... Sunday, 1 Nov 2020 at 8:14pm

willibutler's picture
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willibutler Sunday, 1 Nov 2020 at 8:33pm

Some observations from the wavepool: -on your first time you'll be surprised how strong the current is.
-dont think ill be goin again in winter the water is that fkn cold
-most barrels have a whit water chandelier crumbling on the way out however since this is only weak foam falling over the top it just blocks your view doesnt unsteady you.
- I would say theres only like a handful of the perfect tubes in a session on the rights, but noticed the lefts generally stay more open at the end of the tube, and others have said better tube overall in my sessions.
-If your a beginner or have a slow takeoff defiantly dont do advnaced your just going to fall off on the takeoff and break your board next to the wall and get in the way of fellow surfers by clogging up the lineup

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Patrick0710 Monday, 2 Nov 2020 at 12:53pm

'If your a beginner or have a slow takeoff defiantly dont do advnaced your just going to fall off on the takeoff and break your board next to the wall and get in the way of fellow surfers by clogging up the lineup'

The Cruiser mode is perfect for getting the takeoff happening. Can't really do much more once you're up except, uh, cruise, but it's a great way of improving your pop up.
Going left is great too as the numbers are super low so there's no pressure if you want to let a wave go through until you're confident you're in the right spot for the takeoff. So a friend tells me ...

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Hiccups Monday, 2 Nov 2020 at 1:19pm

'If your a beginner or have a slow takeoff defiantly dont do advnaced your just going to fall off on the takeoff and break your board next to the wall and get in the way of fellow surfers by clogging up the lineup'

This is a constant problem out there.

Bnkref's picture
Bnkref's picture
Bnkref Monday, 2 Nov 2020 at 2:27pm

From what I've observed, there are too many in the intermediate sessions that would be better off in cruiser.

The take-off isn't very forgiving and can be hard to read. If in doubt, try cruiser and you can work your way up from there.

Frodge's picture
Frodge's picture
Frodge Monday, 2 Nov 2020 at 8:13pm

The cruiser sessions are awesome for the kids.

My two had a go just before second lockdown, loved it and can't wait to get back.

willibutler's picture
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willibutler Thursday, 5 Nov 2020 at 9:21pm
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willibutler Thursday, 5 Nov 2020 at 9:30pm

https://fb.watch/1zzs800WUg/

....wait up looks like waco technology maybe

willibutler's picture
willibutler's picture
willibutler Thursday, 5 Nov 2020 at 9:35pm

.....https://www.facebook.com/surfnplayaquapark/posts/3422215897834039
news flash: its actually just a flow rider type wave...

SurferSam's picture
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SurferSam Friday, 6 Nov 2020 at 1:16am

Looks like you can book cruiser , intermediate and advanced in succession
Thinking a 3 hr mega sesh starting with longboard in cruiser and ending on shorty in advanced could be the go for someone like me who’s not been there yet
Be fun playing around with different boards and conditions (maybe a fish in intermediate )

Bnkref's picture
Bnkref's picture
Bnkref Friday, 6 Nov 2020 at 5:48pm

That sounds unreal but I'd suggest 2 sessions over 3 hours. Or 2 back to back.

Unless you're super fit you'll be gassed after doing 2.

peabo's picture
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peabo Friday, 6 Nov 2020 at 10:44pm

Surfed here on Tuesday. Wore my 4/3 which was too warm. Reckon a 3/2 would be ideal at the moment. Def not that cold.

Was on the advanced right. Winds were stiff offshore and it was MUCH better than when I surfed it onshore earlier in the year. Was 30 mins of turns and 30 mins of barrels. The turns wave was honestly fairly boring after 1 or 2, but the barrel setting was loads of fun. Really thick wide little thing. Short though obviously. It's hard work though if you're not fit. Much more than you'd think, which I think is a common experience for people.

Would love if they introduced an Advanced+ session or something. Just an hour of the advanced barrel setting with 18 guys for the same price. Because paying an extra $50 for another half hour of barrels is hard to swallow.

peabo's picture
peabo's picture
peabo Friday, 6 Nov 2020 at 10:48pm

Also, watched the intermediate setting prior to my session. Only 2-3 guys were getting to their feet per set. Was carnage in the impact zone, with very few of them having the courtesy to ensure their boards were out of the way for the guy on the next wave. 75% of them should have been in the cruiser (or having a lesson in the shallows).

geek's picture
geek's picture
geek Saturday, 7 Nov 2020 at 5:56am

I went just before the previous lockdown and I though intermediate was a waste of money for myself. I thought it would be a good warmup before the advanced but the carnage + lack of push was frustrating. If you're a reasonably competent surfer don't bother, go straight to advanced as the turns setting that runs for the 3/4 of the session is still pretty mellow. Will go expert next time for sure! Don't forget expert has only 12 surfers in the water peabo so you will get more waves for your $50 too

sheep shagger's picture
sheep shagger's picture
sheep shagger Saturday, 7 Nov 2020 at 3:23pm

agree... my intermediate right session was carnage last week... take off zone was a bit hectic. Way less people in the other session I saw

Didn't care too much as first waves after lockdown. Still, good overall experience and the staff were super helpful.

goofyfoot's picture
goofyfoot's picture
goofyfoot Saturday, 7 Nov 2020 at 1:41pm

Any feed back on the expert setting?

Stok's picture
Stok's picture
Stok Saturday, 7 Nov 2020 at 3:12pm

Yeah I had a go last week on expert, was good but not exceptionally different to advanced mode barrels. Best thing really is just the lack of surfers so a wave every set. I'd much rather do it than advanced but a bit too pricey.

I've been doing advanced lefts recently and they've been fairly empty, like 8 or 9 surfers each time. Also heard the other day there was an expert left session with 1 surfer on it. Think they'd be losing money at the moment...hopefully the regional crew boost the numbers.

SurferSam's picture
SurferSam's picture
SurferSam Sunday, 8 Nov 2020 at 11:04am

What’s the advanced left like on your backhand? The take off looks like a nice roll in to me but the barrel looks tricky on your back hand?

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Craig Monday, 23 Nov 2020 at 1:47pm

Hahaha

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Kookslams (@kookslams)

etarip's picture
etarip's picture
etarip Monday, 8 Nov 2021 at 7:23pm

Anyone been in the pool of late?
Passing through Melbourne this week and have booked in a couple of back-to-back sessions.

Is it brass monkey cold as or manageable at the moment?

etarip's picture
etarip's picture
etarip Monday, 8 Nov 2021 at 7:24pm

Says 18* on the website but not sure how that ‘feels’ in freshwater

lostdoggy's picture
lostdoggy's picture
lostdoggy Monday, 8 Nov 2021 at 7:50pm

It’ll be fine now, small body of water warms up quick now weather is warmer.

etarip's picture
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etarip Monday, 8 Nov 2021 at 11:48pm

Thanks LD

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truebluebasher Saturday, 13 Aug 2022 at 2:44pm

Urbnsurf reopens today Saturday 13th August 2022
https://urbnsurf.com/#:~:text=%E2%80%8B%E2%80%8B%E2%80%8B%E2%80%8BURBNSU....

2022
Complete (Urbnsurf Tide Charts) Thanks to Stu for this perfect site for Today's Urbnsurf re-launch!
Thanks #1swellnet + Urbnsurf - [f] for laying out full season's Wave Pool Timetables (Not easy!)
Features #1 Pros surfing Tulla Tub + thanks YouTube for Surf Vids.
Ma! We got ourselves one of them real snazzy Wave Pool Calendars.

5th Jan - 31st March 2022 (Mid Summer - Early Autumn Tide Timetable)
https://www.facebook.com/urbnsurf/photos/3133390093540628

11th April -5th June 2022 (Mid Autumn -Early Winter Tide Timetable)
https://www.facebook.com/urbnsurf/photos/3223985077814462

Hells Bells #1 Pro sessions

20th April 2022 Wed Snaps posted @ 8:00pm Kelly Slater surfed these Urbnsurf Autumn/Winter Tides
Of course tbb sussed out session times...so crew can check on which Tides...if yer keen enough!
https://www.facebook.com/nuggetstudios/

22nd April 2022 Toledo
https://www.facebook.com/urbnsurf/photos/pcb.3261080120771624/3261079827...

&t=4s

10th-12th June Incident led to 2 day Wave Park Closure
https://beachgrit.com/2022/06/witness-to-serious-medical-episode-at-melb...

20th June (Follow up!) News hound press conference "Under Pressure!" [1:35]
https://ne-np.facebook.com/wamnnews/videos/breakingperths-new-surfing-pa...

11th July-31st Aug 2022 (Current - Winter Tide Timetable)
+ (Intermission)
25th July -12th Aug ( Neap Tide ) Tide is out > No waves Period (Mid Winter Pool Clean)
https://cdn.urbnsurf.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/22113044/URBNSURF_SC...

Now the crew are up to date...for Saturday Today's Urbnsurf Reopen
13th Aug 2022 Wave Park reopens on continued Winter Tide Timetable...

27th Aug 2022 { Winter Jam }

see : Oz WSL Pros Wade/Reef/Sheldon/ Soli/Kalani fly high into the sky
see : Winter Olympians fly high into the sky
see : DJs fly high into the sky
https://stabmag.com/news/a-snowboard-rail-jam-next-to-a-wavepool-contest...

Tickets + [Disclaimer]
(tbb is not a promoter nor is this a cross promotion) Just a surf site, please don't get excited or sue me!
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/boost-mobile-winter-jam-presented-by-yeti-t...

Then after the Winter Jam we're onto the 4th seasonal timetable
1st Sept- 1st Dec 2022 (Spring -Summer Tide Timetable)
https://cdn.urbnsurf.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/25120627/URBNSURF_SC...

This should near about flow into the Summer-Autumn timetable (or) 4 Seasonal Tides / Year
tbb is not saying each year's tides are the same > New changing Wave Modes / Comps alternate tide changes!
Please use this as a Guide only.
Happy to Share...enjoy surfing yer tides!

truebluebasher's picture
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truebluebasher Saturday, 13 Aug 2022 at 4:23pm

There is a recent follow up "News" story about the said June incident at Urbnsurf...
This story is dated 13 Aug 2022 but was updated 5 days ago?
Claims the incident was on 3rd June but links to a news story on the 10th June.

Ok! 7 News Timeline is well outta whack ... but they did recently interview the recovering surfer!

The Surfer praises Urbnsurf Staff 'n' all for recovery & plans to surf for the rest of his life!
https://7news.com.au/news/vic/survival-story-of-man-feared-dead-after-he...

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Standingleft Sunday, 14 Aug 2022 at 3:00pm

Classic