Surfing legend Kelly Slater will return to Western Australia next month to compete for the second consecutive year in the Telstra Drug Aware Margaret River Pro.

Premier Colin Barnett said the 11-time world champion’s inclusion boosted the event to make it possibly the strongest non-World Championship Tour surfing event field ever assembled.

“It is not a cliche, Kelly Slater is a living sporting legend and to have him back at Margaret River is fantastic news for the event and the region,” Mr Barnett said.

Last year marked Slater’s first return to the competition in 18 years, saying he was drawn back by the good surf, wineries and pristine surrounds of the region.

Slater’s entry means all of last year’s top four male surfers will compete at Margaret River next month, with Joel Parkinson, Owen Wright and Taj Burrow already confirmed starters, along with reigning champion Damien Hobgood and two-times world champion Mick Fanning.

Four-time world champion Stephanie Gilmore is heading a strong women’s field that also includes former world champion Sofia Mulanovich, reigning champion Courtney Conlogue, Pauline Ado and Laura Enever.

The Telstra Drug Aware Pro will be held from March 19-26 at Surfers Point in Prevelly.