SURFERS held the attention in the water, but it was the Miss Surfest finalists that turned heads on shore as the Newcastle surfing event closed out yesterday.
Bikini-clad babes near Merewether Beach modelled the latest designs from Newcastle designer Alex Norrie.
Anita Kovac, the only dark-haired finalist, proved blondes aren't the only bombshells, to claim the Miss Surfest crown.
Natalie Outtram and Brittney Mason were runners-up.
Former Umina boy Glenn "Micro" Hall joined the girls in victory, taking out first place in the Surfest competition and $US12,000.
Kirby Wright also had reason to celebrate after winning the Newcastle women's open category on Saturday.
The neighbouring Wine and Waves Festival and clean, three-to-four-foot waves served up a good ending to Surfest, which attracted thousands of spectators.
It was only improved when Minister for the Hunter Jodi McKay confirmed the surfing event would be back next year.
Email a friend