Surf instructor Connor Lyons granted bail on child sexual abuse charges

More details have emerged of the allegations raised against a once promising surfer and instructor after his arrest on child sexual abuse charges, with police providing an update in the case.

Connor John Christopher Lyons was confronted by media following his release from the Maroochydore watch-house on Monday. Picture: Patrick Woods

More details have emerged of the alleged sexual crimes of a Sunshine Coast surf instructor accused of abusing two children.

Connor Lyons was flanked by media after leaving Maroochydore watch-house on Monday following his arrest on 12 charges of indecent treatment of children and three counts of wilful exposure.

Police allege the Peregian Springs man committed indecent acts against two children known to him through his surf school.

Lyons, a surf instructor and a “World Surf League competitor”, is a prominent identity on the Sunshine Coast and has carved out a significant online presence according to police.

According to the 26-year-old’s World Surf League profile, he competed at three competitions during the 2023/2024 season, which included the Oakberry Tweed Coast Pro and Camplify Great Lakes Pro where he ranked 17th. He has been competing for several years, averaging 9.69 points during his heats.

Lyons speaking to media after being granted bail. Picture: Patrick Woods

The Peregian Springs man’s Instagram profile for his surf school often spruiked his business with videos of his lessons and tutorials while also marketing clinics, overseas camps and merchandise.

In some posts, Lyons advertised his lessons as “passionate and professional” coaching with the sessions being filmed with food offered. The 26-year-old said transport in an eight passenger van was available to an “entertainment room” where they analyse their videos of surfing.

His arrest comes after an investigation by the Noosa Child Protection Investigation Unit after the parents of two children reported Lyons to police.

In court documents obtained by this publication, it can be revealed the families reported Lyons to police only two days apart, on December 13 and 15.

Lyons advertised his surf school frequently on social media. Picture: Instagram

Police allege the victims knew the 26-year-old from the surf school and made their reports independent of one another.

In documents tendered to Maroochydore Magistrates Court during his bail application on Monday, multiple disturbing allegations were raised against Lyons.

Police allege Lyons molested the two children which included multiple indecent touches where he even bathed with one of them.

It’s further alleged the Peregian Springs man abused one of the children during a naked massage and exposed his penis to both of them separately.

Court documents state the children felt uncomfortable through all of the alleged interactions and told Lyons to stop each time.

In objecting to his bail, police believed Lyons’ business revolved around the “intimate” contact with children under 16, and he separately allegedly molested them after “deceiving” their parents to leave them alone with him.

In several videos Lyons speaks about the core elements of how to catch a wave. Picture: Instagram

Court documents state police received reports from the families of alleged victims who said there would be a “real threat of violence” to Lyons if was granted bail.

During his court appearance, Lyons told acting magistrate Raelene Ellis he would abide by bail conditions of not speaking to children under 16, not attending a venue where children frequent and would not coach children under the age of 17.

During his appearance by video from a watch-house cell, he stated he would film his surf content at the beach in a secluded area away from children.

Police prosecutor Mel Pyke objected to his bail, and stated the 26-year-old surf school owner allegedly “gained the trust” of families and children which helped him gain access.

Duty lawyer Michael Robinson said the surf coach had no criminal history and could abide by strict conditions, which was eventually granted by Ms Ellis. His matters were adjourned to next year with no pleas entered.

A Queensland Police Service spokeswoman said no further charges had been laid as of Tuesday, but police continue to investigate.

Connor Lyons competed in the World Surf League. Picture: Instagram

“There are multiple ways to report what has happened to you depending on your situation,” the spokeswoman said.

If there’s an immediate danger, call triple-0 (000). You can also report here over the phone or face-to-face at a police station.

There are also Alternative Reporting Options available depending on your situation.

For confidential information, counselling and support, call the statewide Sexual Assault Helpline on 1800 010 120 or 1800 RESPECT for 24-hour help.

Originally published as Surf instructor Connor Lyons granted bail on child sexual abuse charges