Thursday’s event saw its first batch of champions crowned in the over-35 women, over-55 and over-60 men and single fin divisions, following an exciting day of action in clean three-foot waves.

Mel went down to McMasters Beach surfer, Amee Donohoe who claimed her third NSW women’s title in as many years.

Donohoe went toe-to-toe in the battle with the local threat and perennial State title standout Mel with both women taking out a win and a runner-up finish respectively.

After a tight tussle, Donohoe was able to get the nod thanks to having a higher individual heat total.

Rod Baldwin, Copacabana continued his domination of the HIF NSW Surfmasters Titles adding another trophy to his overflowing mantelpiece of accomplishments.

Baldwin notched up an array of excellent scoring waves to take the win in the over-55 men division and as a result, also earn the AirAsia Wave of The Day.

Neil Cameron from Byron Bay added another NSW title to his portfolio, taking out the over-60 men.

Cameron played to his strengths catching an array of punchy lefthand peaks which allowed him to perform a chain of powerful carves and snaps and as a result, post an impressive 15.83 two-wave heat total.

Collaroy surfer, Carl Musker claimed the NSW single fin title, taking the heat after two close finals with Lennox Head surfers Max Perrot and Michael Crisp.

Musker performed an eclectic mix of maneuvers to take out the final and earn the top place on the dais.

The prominent event will see more than 150 competitors, aged 35 and above, battle it out in an attempt to secure an NSW shortboard title and a spot in the national titles at the 2018 Australian Surf Festival in Tweed Heads.

This is the seventh year in succession  the HIF NSW Surfmasters Titles Presented by Moby's Beachside Retreat has been held in the Great Lakes.

Over-35 women

Single fin

Over-60 men

Over-55 men