Bella Williams

Where It All Started

Believe it or not, I was actually scared of the ocean when I was younger. I was much more inclined to stay on the beach than head into the surf. Growing up, my home break in Newcastle and the famous Bar Beach shore dump humbled me more than a few times, but each experience slowly built my confidence. As I became more comfortable in the water, I started to challenge myself instead of avoiding it. That fear gradually turned into respect, and eventually into a passion. Now, the ocean is where I feel most at home, no matter where I am on the coast of Australia. It continues to push me every day, teaching me resilience, adaptability, and the confidence to embrace challenges both in and out of the water.

The Journey Nobody Sees

I don't think there has been one defining moment that has shaped me-it's been the accumulation of experiences over the years. The discipline of showing up every day, the resilience built through setbacks, and the pursuit of constant improvement have all played a part in who I am as an athlete. Balancing elite sport with university, work, and everyday life has taught me how to manage pressure, stay adaptable, and appreciate the process rather than just the outcome. I've also been incredibly fortunate to be surrounded by coaches, teammates, family, and mentors who have challenged me, supported me, and encouraged me to become not only a better athlete but a better person. Those experiences have shaped my growth mindset, and I believe that's been my greatest strength.

Your Greatest Moments

4x Shaw and Partners Iron Series competitor, Receiving my Open Australian team number #501 in 2023 and being the only person in history so far, to win back-to-back in the U19 Female Australian Surf Race Title both years.

Beyond the Sport

Outside of racing, I'm someone who loves staying busy and finding purpose in everything I do. I'm currently in my third year of a Bachelor of Nursing and work as a Undergraduate Student in Nursing (USIN) with Gold Coast Health in local hospitals. As a USIN, I work alongside registered nurses in the hospital, supporting patient care while gaining hands-on clinical experience before graduating as a Registered Nurse.

I'm also a SurfFit coach, where I have the opportunity to coach the next generation of nippers and young surf athletes on the Gold Coast. Watching young athletes build confidence, develop their skills, and discover a passion for Surf Sports is something I find incredibly rewarding and I am so happy that I get to be a small part of their journey.

Something that often surprises people is my love for the performing arts. I grew up singing, dancing, and acting (mostly throughout school) and while that part of my life is on pause as I juggle elite sport, university, and work, it's still a huge part of who I am. I hope to make more time for it again one day.

I'm naturally a creative person, and I love drawing and colouring, they're my version of mindfulness and a great way to unwind after a busy day or week. Since moving out of home at 19, I discovered a real passion for cooking and preparing meals and snacks that fuel my lifestyle. I genuinely enjoy my time in the kitchen, always trying to improve my "chef" skills. I love clean eating and I believe its another way I can actively invest in my health and wellbeing.