Torquay to host beach volleyball festival

(Ivan Kemp) 271162_03

Torquay is set to host a major beach volleyball tournament later this year.

The new Great Ocean Road Beach Volleyfest, from November 23 to December 4, will feature three high profile events, including the Volleyball World Pro Tour Elite 16 and Challenge tournaments, and the opening round of the Australian Beach Volleyball Tour.

Headlining Australia’s assault will be Olympic and Commonwealth Games silver medalists Taliqua Clancy and Mariafe Artacho del Solar along with recently crowned gold medalists from the Birmingham Commonwealth Games, Chris McHugh and Paul Burnett.

The 11-day festival of beach volleyball will also feature live music and an entertainment hub.

Volleyball Australia CEO Andrew Dee said it will be the largest showcase of international beach volleyball talent since the Commonwealth Games in 2018.

“The Great Ocean Road Beach Volleyfest is the newest major event on the Australian volleyball calendar and we are thrilled to be hosting two major international tournaments, Volleyball World Pro Tour Elite 16 and Challenge, as part of the festival,” he said.

“It will also launch the start of our marquee Australian Beach Volleyball Tour, providing the chance for our elite and emerging talent to play alongside the world’s best.”

Centre court tickets start at $15, and outside courts from $5. Go to beachvolleyfest.com.au to purchase.