A Newcastle female-led surf group Sunlight Surfers is aiming to empower local women among the waves.

It comes as a response to the intimidation they are experiencing at local breaks.

Abbey Bailey, the co-founder of Sunlight Surfers, says the group was formed on a girls’ surfing trip up the coast.

“Empowering each person in the ocean regardless of your age and ability is something we wanted to bring to Newcastle,” she said.

“We encourage all women who love the ocean and waves as much as we do to come along.”

Marina surfing in Costa Rica. Photo: Thomas Oliver Photography

Marina Silva, an instructor from Newcastle, has just returned from working in Costa Rica.

She says surfing with the club is the only time women outnumber men in the surf.

“Newcastle has a big surfing culture,” Marina

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