World Surf League awards: Surfing legends on Gold Coast ceremony at The Star

Locals legends Mick Fanning, Joel Parkinson and Stephanie Gilmore were among the big names who swapped wetsuits for a suits, ties and gowns for surfing’s night of nights.

GOLD Coast surfing legend Joel Parkinson is relishing spending more time on his beer than his board after his recent retirement from the sport.

Strutting his first red carpet for the annual World Surf League awards last night, ‘Parko’ told the Bulletin: “Usually the last three days leading up to an event is the most stressful time of the year.

RED BULL AIRBORNE TRIALS WINNER CROWNED ON COAST

Pictured on the Red Carpet, Joel Parkinson, Stephanie Gilmore and Mick Fanning. Pic Mike Batterham

“Right now I’ve never been so relaxed.

“I’ve been doing lots of stuff with my beer company Balter and things for Billabong.

“I’ve been busy but I’m really enjoying it.”

OTHER NEWS:

‘Incredibly stupid’: Dogs left tied up to cars at Coast theme park

Secrets of Sundale Shopping Centre revealed

Where to get designer outfits for $5

Joel and Monica Parkinson with their children L-R Evie, Macy and Mahli. Pic Mike Batterham

Locals Mick Fanning, Joel Parkinson and Stephanie Gilmore were among the big names who swapped wetsuits for a suits, ties and gowns for surfing’s night of nights at The Star Gold Coast.

The WSL announced last year that men and women would be paid equally and for Gilmore, who won a seventh world title in November, it was a groundbreaking moment.

SUBSCRIBE TO THE GOLD COAST BULLETIN — JUST $1 FOR THE FIRST 28 DAYS

Cooper Talbot and Bridget Thelander. Pic Mike Batterham

“It was an amazing feeling but it really was an explanation mark, knocking down those barriers and setting the standards on what should be normal,” the former Kingscliff High School student said.

Surfing legend Kelly Slater told the Bulletin he is staying on the Gold Coast until June.

“I’ve only been here for about three days. I’m here until June but I’m back and forth,” he said, admitting Kirra is still his favourite surf spot on the Coast.

Jordy and Lyndal Smith. Pic Mike Batterham

COAST SURFERS BECOMES GLOBAL AMBASSADOR

New parents Jack Freestone and partner Alana Blanchard were celebrating their first night without their 16-month-old bub.

“We kinda have anxiety not being with him right now,” Mr Freestone said.

“This is actually our first night out together without a baby. It’s really weird. It’s been over a year. Our single friends must really be over us by now.”