Wayne 'Rabbit' Bartholomew AM is an Australian surfer and order of Australia recipient who won the World Surfing Championship in 1978, 1999 (ASP world masters) and 2003 (ASP world grand master) . Bartholomew was also the former President of the Association of surfing professionals (ASP) 1999 - 2009 and Chief Executive Officer, 1999-2003.

The award-winning documentary "Bustin Down the Door" depicts Rabbit's early days in Coolangatta and his roller coaster ride to the top, overcoming massive obstacles along the way in his bid to bring credibility to the sport.

He was given the nickname

Nickname

A nickname is "a usually familiar or humorous but sometimes pointed or cruel name given to a person or place, as a supposedly appropriate replacement for or addition to the proper name.", or a name similar in origin and pronunciation from the original name....

 'Rabbit' when he was young because of his speed as a footballer, and because he was missing all but his two front teeth.

Awards & Recognition

• Member (AM) in the General Division of the Order of Australia, 2009
• Inducted into Australian Walk of Fame, 2006
• Inducted into USA Hall of Fame, 2001
• Inducted into Sports Australia Hall of Fame, 1999
• Inducted into Australian Surfing Hall of Fame, 1987
• Ambassador, International Year of the Ocean, United Nations, 1998.
• 3 time Gold Coast Sportsman of the Year -
• ASP "services to the Sport Award"
• Movie of the Year, USA Surfer Poll Awards, 2008; for Bustin' Down the Door.
• Documentary of the Year, USA Surfer Poll Awards, 2008; for Bustin’ Down the Door.