Composing the Surf

Turrakana is surrounded by ocean, and home to one of Lutruwita’s most famous surf breaks: Shipstern Bluff. While this coastline is uncontainable—a world unto itself—it has captured the imagination of a range of creative practitioners. Join Nick Green (Dark Seas) Marti Paradisis (When the Ocean Awakes and Lenny the Shredder) and Erin Hortle (The Octopus and I and A Catalogue of Love) for a screening of Nick Green’s Dark Seas, a film that showcases this coast, followed by a discussion about the space where the chaos of the ocean and the joy of surfing meet creative practice. How does a novelist tackle the same matter as a photographer? How might children’s books inspire a nuanced appreciation for the surf? And what does it feel like to surf big waves, or photograph them from the precipice?

Nick Green is a critically acclaimed, award-winning photographer, whose work has been featured in a wide range of publications, including a recent cover of Tracks Magazine. His photography book, Dark Seas, was released earlier this year, and captures a decade spent returning to the coastline of Turrakana.

Marti Paradisis Marti Paradisis is a Tasmanian former professional surfer turned author, whose life has been shaped by the Tasmanian coastline and the adventure that comes with it. This lifestyle comes with a deep respect for the ocean and a commitment to looking after it for the next generation. Through Salty Minds, Marti shares his connection to land and sea with families everywhere, inspiring kids and adults alike to get outside and explore natures wonders.

Erin Hortle is the author of two critically acclaimed novels—The Octopus and I (2020) and A Catalogue of Love (2025)—and many essays. Her writing explores new ways of imagining human relationships with the more than human world and is often ocean facing.

Book sales, signings and a food van on site.

Composing the Surf is followed by a screening of Ocean with David Attendborough at 7pm.