Warrnambool's Kylie Palmer returned to to surfing two years ago after searching for an alternative activity to running.
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"I used to surf as a kid and I got a bit sick of running because it's so hard on the body," she said.
"I was looking for something that was good for your physical and mental health, it's become a really big part of my life.
"There are no distractions, it's peaceful and it's really good to be in the ocean connecting with nature.
"Surfing is also a good way to challenge yourself and become mentally tough."
Palmer is now organising the Warrnambool Boardriders Club Paddle Out for Pink surfing contest to help encourage more women to take up the sport and raise funds for the Pink Ribbon campaign.
"We are trying to help raise funds and help stress the need for early detection," she said.
"As part of the boardriders club we thought we would run an all-inclusive surfing event including the girls, the groms and anyone else who wants to get involved."
Boardriders club president Baz Law said the event would have a women's-only competition heat, alongside other competition heats.
"There will also be a social surf afterwards, with coaching available," Law said.
"This is a great idea to highlight women in surfing.
"We plan to run the competition in December before Christmas but will push back into January if the conditions don't line up."
The Paddle Out for Pink surfing contest will run at The Flume, in Warrnambool. Dates for the competition will be announced on the Warrnambool Boardriders Club Facebook page.
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