Tracks acquired by group of surfers from Next Media
A group of surfers have bought surfing magazine Tracks from Next Media, following the recent publication of its 50th anniversary issue.
New co-owners Greg Cooper, Luke Kennedy, Damian Martin, David Mulham and Peter Strain said they have had a longtime passion for the publication, and are looking into how they can continue and refresh the brand.
“I’ve been a keen surfer and dedicated Tracks reader for decades,” Strain said.
“Tracks is more than just a magazine it’s a part of our history, and it has played an important role in shaping our cultural identity, not only as surfers but as Australians. We’re excited about exploring a range of new opportunities with the brand.”
The managing director of Next Media, Arek Widawski, added that he is “delighted that Tracks has found the right home for its next chapter, allowing Nextmedia to focus on other key brands”, including Australian Healthy Food, Frankie, Gardening Australia, Golf Australia, Smith Street Journal and children’s titles K-Zone and Total Girl.
Luke Kennedy and Ben Bugden will stay in their roles leading the editorial team, and Damian Martin will continue as head of advertising.
“I’m looking forward to providing Tracks devotees and the next generation of readers with a dynamic, high-quality magazine that offers an immersive experience,” Kennedy, the editor, said.
Tracks was first published in 1970 by John Witzig, Albe Falzon, and David Elfick, before cycling through a number of large publishing house owners. Now owned by a group of surfers, Strain said they will ‘relaunch’ Tracks.
“So many of us have significant memories associated with Tracks. We want to continue that tradition,” he said.
“And it’s an exciting time for surf culture. Everyone’s back in the water and there’s never been so much curiosity about surfboards and different surfing experiences.”
The first magazine under the new ownership will be published in April.
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Brittney Rigby was Mumbrella's deputy managing editor - news and analysis. She left Mumbrella in April 2021.
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Arek Widawski
Ben Bugden
Damian Martin
David Mulham
Greg Cooper
Luke Kennedy
Next Media
Peter Strain
TRACKS
