In its 39^th year, organisers have welcomed a new major sponsor with the launch of Raging Bull Surf to coincide with the four day surf extravaganza starting on Thursday.

Event director John Smythe said a revamped website and increased communication on social media meant entries were flowing in well.

"This is the first year we've tried online entries and we're starting to get quite good feeback and people signing up - the roll up looks good," Mr Smythe said.

He said some entrants had already descended on Merimbula over the weekend ahead of Thursday's official opening.

He was also thrilled to welcome the support of Gary from Bull Dynasty, who is launching Raging Bull Surf on Thursday as part of the Merimbula Classic.

Mr Smythe said last year's Classic ran at a slight loss, but Raging Bull had picked up a lot of the initial costs this year in an effort to ensure the Classic remain viable for it's 40^th and well into the future.

"He has done a lot for us and pulled us back into the black so next year we can celebrate 40 and hopefully it can run forever," Mr Smythe said.

Entrants will be supplied t-shirts and rash vests with Raging Bull Surf generously footing the bill.

Fan favourites will return with a food and music night at Merimbula's Main Beach on Friday, while the Classic party runs Saturday night at Club Sapphire.

Surfing will run each day from 10am Thursday right through to Sunday afternoon with presentations at Club Sapphire.

With hot and windy conditions prevailing, Mr Smythe said there will be something for everyone on the water, while he said there had also been some new toys making waves in surf circles.

"The foil has been a new toy on the block for a few years and you'll see more board makers coming on to them," he said.

"But you've also got wings - this is the newest thing - it's like a small kite you hold and it can propel any type of board from a kiteboard to a stand up paddler.

"They've developed really fast and we'll have a company coming out from the Phillipines to show off a whole range."

He said most of the entries would be returning regulars, but they like to add most boards "to their quiver of toys".

He said having the gear to suit all conditions just provided an extra excuse to be out on the water with many enjoying a SUP in the glassy early conditions, while wings and kites will emerge as wind picks up in the afternoon.

Spectators are more than welcome.