Australian surfer Owen Wright has moved a step closer to avoiding the mid-season cut in the World Surf League, advancing to the round of 16 at Bells Beach.
The Olympic bronze medallist knocked out Griffin Colapinto in the first heat of Thursday's action in Victoria, outscoring the American 13.67 to 12.34 in a tight 30-minute eliminator.
Tour rookie Jackson Baker also moved ahead with an upset win over South African Jordy Smith while Ethan Ewing continued a sparkling morning for the Australian contingent, beating Lucca Mesinas of Peru.