Other category winners on a weekend of perfect weather and great surf were Elle Clayton-Brown (women's), Mitch Dawkings (legends), Ross Cadden (juniors), and Eden Hasson (cadets).

Event director Tezza McKenna said there was a huge roll-up of Australia's best surfers, with more than $5000 given away in prize money across five divisions.

"Kurtis managed to snatch victory from some more experienced opponents," McKenna said. "In fact, he only entered the competition a few days before the cut-off and he had to borrow a board and wetsuit, making his win all that more special."

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"Thanks to everyone who helped me complete, I really never expected to win," said Herman, a 25-year-old from Anna Bay.

Second position went to North Narrabee's Dylan Moffatt, while Maddy Job from Burleigh Heads finished third and another local favourite Chris Michalak was fourth.

In the over 40 legends division, Mitch Dawkings proved too strong to take the title for a second time. In the junior division Forster's Ross Cadden showed great wave selection and technique to defeat a quality field.

The women's division was won by Elle Clayton-Brown, from Corlette, and Eden Hasson won the cadets under 16 boys final.

Competitors enjoyed two action packed days of perfect surf and some great entertainment at the Shoal Bay Country Club for the presentations.

Mr McKenna said this was the biggest and best year of the competition in its seven year history.

"This event is really gaining momentum. It's becoming one of the most popular boutique surfing events in Australia, mainly due to the nature of the wave at Box Beach."

The event also included a fitting tribute to another prominent Bay surfer, Andrew Lilly, who passed away last week, aged 53.

Plans are already underway for a bigger and better event in 2020.

The event was supported by Burton automotive, Port Stephens Council and the Shoal Bay Country Club, as well as numerous small businesses.