Changed Traffic Conditions

Each year, a limited number of major events require changed traffic conditions. This can include full or partial road closures for on-road events and/or diversions to assist with traffic flow for large scale events such as the Rip Curl Pro.

Road closures require the approval of multiple agencies, including Council, Regional Roads Victoria (Department of Transport) and Victoria Police.

Part of our commitment to minimising the impact on our residents and local business operators, is to give as much notification as possible, by working with event organisers to ensure they are well informed and aware of any changed traffic conditions.

Notification of changed traffic conditions can include:

  • Letters to residents along the event route
  • Advance notification signage placed along the event route
  • Banner alert on this Surf Coast Events website
  • Electronic VMS signage placed along the event route
  • Advertisements in local papers
  • Community information sessions

Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach

The 2025 Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach is the longest running event on the World Surf League’s Championship Tour, and this will be its’ 62nd year.

Event Bump-In & Car Park Access
Bump-in begins Saturday, 29 March 2025, limiting Bells Beach Car Park access until Monday, 12 May 2025. Access to the beach will be maintained where possible.

Changed Traffic Conditions

This year’s event window is from Friday 18 April until  Monday 28 April 2025. There will be changed traffic conditions in the area from Thursday 17 April 2025 until event conclusion. These include:

  • Speed reductions and traffic management in place
  • Bells Beach Road reduced to one lane between the Wave Car Park to the South Side Car Park.
  • Increased traffic in the area

These measures have been developed in consultation with GORCAPA, Surf Coast Shire, and VicRoads to help protect road users, local wildlife, and event attendees.

More event information here.