Ily Fraser and Darcy Gee score at Taj Burrow’s Small Fries surf contest

A couple of young Margaret River chargers have come back with awards from the weekend’s 19th annual Small Fries contest at Yallingup. Started by surfing icon Taj Burrow, the competition is focused on younger and up-and-coming talent. Ily Fraser, 11, claimed back-to-back wins in the under-12 girls division, while Dunsborough’s Darcy Gee pipped fellow resident Ollie Holmes in the under-12 boys. While many divisions were claimed by east coast surfers who made up more than 170 competitors at the four-day event, other notable achievements included Cowaramup’s Grace Cook in second in the under-16 girls and fellow Cow-towner Ethan Anderson likewise runner-up in the under-14 boys. Ily told the Times she was ecstatic at her second victory at the contest. The Margaret River Montessori student said she was “extremely nervous” going into the final due to pressure from last year’s win. “It’s the best way to start the year,” she said. “I love competing and having all my friends come over and stay with us. It’s been unreal.” Her favourite part of the event was getting chaired up the beach by her brother Okie and sister Leila, skilled surfers in their own right. Commemorating yet another successful event, Burrow said this year’s iteration included the “trickiest” weather forecast to date with the finals held in low-key swell. “It was impressive to see how everyone tackled the conditions over the past four days,” he said. “Congratulations to all the winners, and thanks to everyone who has supported the event over all these years and make it one of the best in the country.” Surfing WA events manager Justin Majeks said preparations were already under way to make the event’s 20th anniversary something special.