Gilmore best waves in qualifying were a 9.23 (right) and 7.03 (left) giving her enough to finish in the top four, just edging out Sally Fitzgibbons who finished fifth.

"I'm happy to be in the top four," said Gilmore.

"I think Caroline is really strong here, she could probably go on to win the event. It's really impressive to see how spicy she is. And Carissa is always so sharp here. Lakey always rises to the occasion every time. I always knew those girls would be right up there."

Carissa Moore, Lakey Peterson and 16 year old Caroline Marks are the other finalists.