Kaitlin Rees
18
YEARS OLD
QLD
BMD NORTHCLIFFE
#17
2026/27 SERIES
Board
STRENGTH
Bio
Kaitlin Rees grew up just down the road from Swansea Belmont SLSC and has been immersed in surf lifesaving her whole life. Now 18, Rees is balancing the demands of Year 12 and her HSC studies while achieving a long-held goal of qualifying for the Shaw and Partners Iron Series. Representing Swansea Belmont, she has worked towards professional Iron racing for many years and now takes her place among the sport’s elite athletes. Away from training and competition, Rees enjoys spending time with friends and making the most of any opportunity to get in the surf.
Katy, what is your top Iron Series memory so far?
Qualifying for the Series would have to be it. Knowing I’d earned a spot to race against athletes I’ve watched for years was pretty surreal, and having my mum, dad, and my SB teammates right there at the finish line made the moment even more special.
What's the best part about being a surf sports athlete?
Getting to race the people I grew up watching. It’s pretty surreal going from watching the Iron Series to actually being on the start line in it. I also love that no two races are ever really the same because the ocean can completely change what happens.
What is the best piece of advice that you have ever been given?
One of my coaches used to tell me that when something doesn’t go your way, or you have a bad race, to pack it up in a box, put it on the shelf and focus on what’s next. You can always unpack it later, but in the moment, there’s no point letting it affect your next race.
Do you have a secret talent?
I used to be a competitive dancer, so I’d like to think there are still a few moves left in me.