High hopes not only for themselves but for the newest event in the World Surf League qualifying series. 

Andrew, 10^th on the championship tour and sixth on the QS, is in position to re-qualify for the top tier through both series next season. Top 10 on the CT or top six on the QS will make the cut. Port Stephens is the last QS event of the year.

“I’m trying to hold onto my spot in the top six but most of all, we’re all here to enjoy it,” the Mooloolaba native told Fairfax at the launch on Wednesday.

Her roommate for the trip, Tuach, from Barbados, is only an outside hope to qualify, but she’s no less enthused to be in Port Stephens. The event was quickly established when the Sydney International Women’s Pro was abandoned.

“I think this event is a definite upgrade, the surf certainly wasn’t as powerful in Cronulla [last year], there’s a lot more potential here,” Tuach said. 

“Having put this event together at such short notice is a real credit to the organisers and sponsors. We really need this event and we really appreciate it.”

Competition is likely to start at One Mile Beach on Thursday but organisers are optimistic surfing will return to Birubi on Friday and for the weekend. 

Having sampled some famous breaks, Andrew was enthused about Port Stephens.

“I love it here, it feels like a small town and while I’ve passed by many times back and forward to Sydney, I’m really pleased to be here now,” she said. “I’ve never been to Birubi before which a little unnerving, being Australian.”