Vale Graham ‘Sid’ Cassidy

Surfing Australia is deeply saddened by the passing of Graham ‘Sid’ Cassidy, a pioneering figure whose vision, advocacy and passion helped shape the evolution of professional surfing.

A respected journalist, promoter and event director, Sid played a pivotal role in the growth of professional surfing throughout the 1970s and 1980s.

Sid helped establish the structures that underpin modern professional surfing, including the formation of the Association of Professional Surfing Athletes (APSA), before going on to lead the Association of Surfing Professionals (ASP), now the World Surf League, as Executive Director.

His work helped shape the sport’s competitive pathways and the evolution of the world ranking system.

Beyond surfing, Sid made a significant contribution to Australian sport and public life, serving as Media Director for the Sydney 2000 Olympic and Paralympic Games and later as Director of City Engagement for the City of Sydney.

In 2025, Sid was inducted into the Australian Surfing Hall of Fame in recognition of his extraordinary contribution to the sport. His legacy lives on in the professional surfing landscape he helped build and the generations of athletes who have followed.

Our thoughts are with Sid’s family, friends and all those across the surfing community whose lives and careers were touched by his contribution.

Please join Sid’s friends, family and extended community for a celebration of life at Cronulla Surf Club on October 28, from 1–8 pm. All are welcome to attend.

Vale Graham ‘Sid’ Cassidy.