Honoring a beloved waterman

Charles “Chikka” Bruce was more than just a surfer—he was a mentor, a friend, and a cornerstone of the local surfing community. Known for his infectious enthusiasm and deep respect for the ocean, Chikka spent decades riding the waves and sharing his passion with others. Whether it was teaching groms how to read the swell or swapping stories with old mates after a long session, he embodied the true spirit of Australian surf culture.

For those who knew him, Chikka’s presence in the lineup was unmistakable. His smooth style, effortless connection with the waves, and unwavering stoke made him a figure of admiration. But beyond his skills in the water, it was his generosity and kindness that left the biggest impact. He was always the first to lend a hand, offer words of encouragement, or simply share a laugh on the sand.

His passing has left a deep void in the hearts of many, but his legacy lives on in the stories, the friendships, and the countless lives he touched. As the community prepares to gather in his honor, there is no more fitting tribute than a paddle out—a tradition that reflects the deep bond between surfers and the sea, and a way to celebrate a life well lived.

The significance of a paddle out

A paddle out is one of the most revered traditions in surf culture, a powerful and symbolic way for the community to come together and pay tribute to a fellow waterman. Rooted in Hawaiian traditions, this ceremony is more than just a farewell—it is a celebration of life, a moment of unity, and a way to honor the deep connection between surfers and the ocean.

During a paddle out, surfers take to the water on their boards, forming a circle beyond the break. In this sacred space, stories are shared, memories are recounted, and respects are paid. Some may offer flowers to the sea, while others splash water skyward in a final salute. It is a moment of reflection, but also one of joy, as those gathered remember the waves ridden and the friendships forged.

For many, the ocean is more than just a playground—it is a place of solace, healing, and belonging. A paddle out embodies this sentiment, providing a way for the community to come together in a setting that meant so much to the person being honored. It is a reminder that while a surfer may be gone, their spirit remains in every wave, every sunrise session, and every shared laugh in the lineup.

As the local surf community prepares to paddle out for Chikka, the significance of this tradition takes on even greater meaning. It is not just about saying goodbye, but about carrying forward his legacy—the stoke, the camaraderie, and the love for the ocean that defined his life.

Event details and community participation

The paddle out for Charles “Chikka” Bruce will take place on Sunday, March 2, at Emerald Beach, a location that held a special place in his heart. Surfers, friends, and family will gather on the sand before paddling out beyond the break to form a circle in his honor. This moment will be one of remembrance and celebration, where those who knew Chikka can share stories, reflect on his impact, and pay their respects in the most fitting way possible—surrounded by the ocean he loved.

The event is open to all who wish to participate, whether they choose to paddle out or simply stand on the shore in support. Those who plan to join in the water are encouraged to bring their boards, wear appropriate surf gear, and arrive early to ensure a smooth start to the ceremony. For those remaining on land, there will be an opportunity to share memories, offer flowers to the sea, and be part of the collective tribute.

Following the paddle out, the community will gather back on the beach for a casual get-together, where food, drinks, and stories will be shared. This will be a time to celebrate Chikka’s life in the way he would have wanted—surrounded by mates, laughter, and the sound of the waves rolling in. Organisers encourage attendees to bring a picnic rug, some snacks, and any photos or memorabilia they’d like to share.

Chikka’s influence on the local surf scene was profound, and this event is expected to draw surfers from across the region who were touched by his kindness, wisdom, and unwavering passion for the ocean. Whether you knew him personally or simply want to pay tribute to a fellow waterman, this paddle out is an opportunity to come together as a community and honour a life well lived.

For those unable to attend in person, there will be a dedicated space online where messages, photos, and memories can be shared. This will allow friends from near and far to take part in celebrating Chikka’s legacy, ensuring that his spirit continues to inspire future generations of surfers.

Honoring a beloved surfer

Charles “Chikka” Bruce wasn’t just another bloke on a board—he was the heart and soul of the lineup. A true waterman, Chikka lived for the waves, the salt, and the mateship that comes with chasing the perfect ride. Whether he was carving up the face of a solid set or sharing a yarn in the car park, he left an impression on everyone lucky enough to cross his path.

For those who knew him, Chikka was more than just a surfer—he was a mentor, a mate, and the kind of bloke who’d give you the last wave of the session just to see you smile. His passion for the ocean was infectious, and his respect for the sea was unwavering. He had a knack for reading the swell like an old fisherman reads the tides, always knowing when and where to paddle out for the best conditions.

But it wasn’t just about the waves for Chikka. He believed in the power of community, in looking out for your mates, and in sharing the stoke. Whether it was groms learning their first pop-up or seasoned surfers swapping stories over a post-surf feed, he made sure everyone felt welcome in the lineup.

Now, as the seasons shift and the water cools, the surfing community will come together to honor a legend the only way surfers know how—by paddling out, sharing memories, and sending him off with the respect he deserves. Because if there’s one thing Chikka taught us, it’s that the ocean isn’t just a place to surf—it’s where we come together, where we remember, and where we celebrate the lives of those who made the waves feel like home.

Details of the paddle out ceremony

The paddle out for Chikka is set for Sunday, March 2, at Emerald Beach—one of his favourite stomping grounds. Surfers, family, and mates will gather on the sand before paddling beyond the break, forming the traditional circle to honour his memory. Expect a sea of boards, a few salty tears, and plenty of stories about the man who made every session feel like a Sunday arvo with your best mates.

For those unfamiliar with the tradition, a paddle out isn’t just a farewell—it’s a celebration. It’s about coming together, sharing laughs, and sending off a legend in the way only surfers can. As the circle forms, flowers will be cast into the water, and hands will splash in tribute, a final salute to a bloke who lived for the ocean.

After the paddle out, the crew will head back to shore for a proper send-off—think cold drinks, good food, and plenty of yarns about Chikka’s best waves (and worst wipeouts). It’s a chance to remember him the way he’d want: with a smile, a laugh, and maybe even a sneaky surf if the conditions allow.

Everyone is welcome—whether you knew Chikka personally or just want to pay respects to a fellow waterman. Bring your board, bring your stories, and most importantly, bring the stoke. Because if there’s one thing Chikka would want, it’s for us to keep the good vibes rolling, both in and out of the water.