g. In events where the priority buoy is moved out of position during a heat, towards the
beach, the Priority Judge will allocate wave priority. In cases where the priority buoy
moves to approximately more than a 30-second paddle from the line-up, the buoy will
stay in use for the remainder of that heat. In all cases the buoy cannot be replaced until
after the heat.
h. Allocation is based on whom the Priority Judge believes has reached the lineup first.
In cases where both surfers appear to reach the lineup at the same time priority will
go to the surfer who did not have the last priority. Under priority allocation it is the
surfer’s responsibility to continually check the priority disc for verification. Under no
circumstances must the priority rule be suspended in one-on-one competition.
i. If it is impossible for the Priority Judge to establish who has paddled around the priority
buoy first then no priority will be given unless the surfers in the heat, when asked, agree
that only one has priority. If neither agrees, then no priority will be given, and once the
first wave from then on has been ridden, the second surfer will get automatic priority for
any other wave they choose.
j. When there is no priority, the interference rule shall determine wave possession. Both
surfers may ride the wave in opposite directions, provided they do not interfere with
each other.
k. In all cases where a dispute results from a malfunction of the priority system, the Head
Judge, Tour Manager/Representative, Contest Director will arbitrate.
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SURFING AUSTRALIA RULE BOOK