The Kempsey-Crescent Head Surf Boat club has high expectations and will enter the championship as the four-time defending champions.

The club was victorious in the Open Men, Whale Cup, 160 Masters Men and Masters Women divisions in last season’s competition.

However, Kempsey-Crescent Head Surf Boat captain Scott Edwards views the upcoming season as a rebuilding year for the club.

“There have been a few crew changes so we will just have to see how we go,” Edwards said.

“Coffs Harbour and Woolgoolga will be tough to beat.”

The club will contest in six different categories; the open men’s and women’s, men’s reserve, junior boys, masters over 200 and masters under 200.

Meanwhile South West Rocks will be represented by the 160 Masters Men and Surf Boat captain Paul Owens is predicting a good performance.

“We are a strong and experienced crew, we have trained hard but we have been smart to ensure we don’t peak too early,” Owens said.

“Hopefully we can get off to a good start this weekend and progressively get better throughout the season.”

Owens claimed the crew will be attempting to represent South West Rocks at the country, state and national competitions and said the return of a boyhood star will play an important role in their success.

“Ben Thomas has returned to the club and has a wealth of experience,” Owens said.

“He is our second stroke, our engine and is key in getting us going.”

Thomas, who is now 30-years-old, last represented South West Rocks as a teenager.

Owens encourages anyone interested in participating in Surf Boats to contact the South West Rocks Surf Life Saving Club.

Minnie Waters is hosting a surf boats come and try day for the public on Sunday.

The day is also aimed to develop the skills of the rowers and allow sweeps to get qualified.