From local legend to global phenomenon: the Belco Bowl Jam celebrates 24 Years of skateboarding culture

Posted on 7 February, 2025

In the heart of Canberra’s Belconnen district stands an iconic piece of skateboarding history – the Belco Bowl.

This keyhole-shaped bowl, preserved from the original skatepark during its 2011 renovation, has become more than just concrete and curves: it’s the beating heart of Australia’s thriving skateboarding community and home to one of the sport’s most anticipated events.

And as it prepares to celebrate its 24^th year, the Belco Bowl Jam isn’t just an event – it’s a three-day party that’s got the whole skateboarding world talking.

Embodying the true spirit of skateboarding culture, what began in 2001 as a modest gathering of local skaters has evolved into a multi-day extravaganza that draws talent from across the globe, cementing Canberra’s reputation as a premier destination for skateboarding enthusiasts.

“This year’s event is set to be our biggest yet,” says Vice-President of the Canberra Skateboarding Association, Brenden ‘Woody’ Wood.

“With over $40,000 in prize money and a lineup featuring both Australian talent like Arissa Trew and international stars from the Vans USA and Europe teams, we’re expecting record attendance.”

But this isn’t your typical skateboarding competition.

While it has an impressive prize purse, the Belco Bowl Jam is more about good times over rigid competition rules.

According to Woody, it’s this approach that has caused the Belco Bowl Jam to catch the attention of skateboarding elite, earning features in the prestigious Thrasher Magazine and generating significant buzz across social media platforms.

But here’s the kicker – this isn’t just a one-bowl show. This year the whole city will become a skater’s paradise with sessions popping off at street spots across Canberra from Friday 14 until Sunday 16 February.

Along an event calendar that truly offers something for every style of skater, the 2025 Belco Bowl Jam will see a wild street party with a half pipe taking over Elouera Street in Braddon, along with the Kambah U-Pipe getting its fair share of action.

New to the lineup? A vert contest on Belco’s fresh-built vert ramp that’s guaranteed to send jaws dropping.

“Skaters from across Australia and beyond are expected to make their way to Canberra for the weekend, not just to compete but also to soak up the atmosphere and enjoy the camaraderie that defines Belco Bowl Jam,” says Woody.

“The success of the event has had a positive impact on the local economy and helped put Canberra on the map as a skateboarding-friendly city.”

The best part? Every year, before the event kicks off, the local crew gets together for what might be the world’s coolest paint party. Armed with rollers and paint, they give their beloved bowl a fresh coat – because if you’re going to send it, you might as well send it in style.

With its core values of community, creativity, and the pure joy of skating, the real magic of this event isn’t in the tricks (though those are pretty sick). It’s in the late-night sessions, the new friendships formed, and those “you had to be there” moments that make Belco Bowl Jam legendary.

And as Canberra gears up for another year of skateboarding mayhem, one thing’s for sure – this is one party you don’t want to miss.

Feature image via Instagram.