Burleigh local Liam O'Brien LOB has officially returned to the WSL Championship Tour for 2026 and, of course, as a Burleigh Brewing ambassador.
While you might know Liam for his incredible surfing performances, we know Liam as one of the kindest, most down to earth people on the planet. With the premiere of ‘Amalgam’ last year at the Taphouse, and the star of our live viewing parties, we cannot wait to cheer LOB on across the year as he competes for the world title on the world stage. Get to know Liam a little better below:
What was it like growing up in Burleigh and how do you keep a bit of Burleigh with you when you are traveling on tour?
It was great. The point is an unreal wave when it’s on, so surfing and hanging out down at the beach all day was what I’d often get up to. There were plenty of other kids that would do the same. A lot of which have become some of my best friends. I like to try and keep in contact with them while I’m away to have a bit of connection to home whilst on the road.
As an athlete I’d imagine there have been a lot of periods where you’ve had to be resilient - can you talk me through the mental challenge of getting back on tour in the last year?
Getting cut off tour was tough. It was like the reverse of achieving your dream haha. Picking myself back up and having another crack definitely wasn’t easy but it was a great challenge that I feel like I learnt a lot from.
What do you want to be known for best in your surfing?
Getting barrelled.
Is there a part to being a pro surfer that people might not know goes into it
Probably all the frustrating warm up surfs around events. Everyone on tour wants to practice at the contest site and everyone on tour is really good at catching waves which makes for some pretty annoying surfs. It’s not that bad but definitely something I didn’t think about before getting on tour.
How do you maintain balance in your life?
I like to switch off from training and competing when I can by having a beer with mates or going on a surf trip away from events. Keeps me motivated to compete.
When, in your opinion, is the best moment for a beer?
Probably as the sun is setting on a nice day. Especially if you’ve been surfing all day.
What is your pick out of the Burleigh Brewing range?
The Bighead lager is my favourite!
