[ News and Events ]
Australia's First Surf Writing Workshop
Tim recently staged a surf writing workshop in Newcastle at the invitation of the Hunter Writer’s Centre, to coincide with the annual Surfest surfing contest. This was certainly an Australian, and possibly a world first.
The workshop was held at Cook’s Hill Surf Club, Newcastle, overlooking the ocean, and attracted 11 participants from as far afield as Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, and Cronulla, south of Sydney.
Topics covered included: the history of surf writing, lessons the ocean and surfing have to offer us, the way surfing mirrors Joseph Campbell’s “Hero’s Journey” to make for compelling stories, and the deep physical impact their environment has on surfers.
Finding new ways to say a fresh word about this specialist subject matter were also explored. Stirring examples from popular literature were discussed and a short free writing exercise was conducted to encourage attendees to delve into their subconscious to explore their deepest feelings about surfing and the ocean.
Practical realities of the surf writer’s craft were also touched upon. Observational reporting, note taking, interviewing, biography writing, travel writing, surfboard design, and submitting story ideas to magazines were some of the topics covered.
Some comments from those who took part:
“Terrific - so many good ideas, gave me confidence, answered questions I had.”
“Lots of sharing of experiences by Tim - great to hear real stories from someone who has actually done it. ... Loved it.”
“Insightful, helpful comments for pursuing surf writing.”
“Stoked to meet and be guided by one of the surf industry’s best.”