Byron Bay Gig Guide - Music, Entertainment and Events in Byron

By Laura Guthrie
Images by Vitoria Spofforth

Where was the place to be in Byron Bay last Friday night?
Well if you’re interested in surfing (or just interested in all things awesome) you were probably at The Women and the Waves. Held at the Byron Community Centre, the night featured a surf movie screening, live music, art, fashion, food and drink.

Tracy Mae and Vanessa Thompson presented The Women and the Waves to a rapt audience. After years of watching movies that feature men’s surfing, with only brief glimpses into the world of women in the water, it was wicked to finally see a surf film that documents the female surf experience. Filmmakers Heather Hudson and Peck Euwer wanted to explore what it means to surf like a girl. As well as professional surfers, they covered women who have been surfing for decades without pay or fame; women who have incorporated surfing into their lifestyle. Showcasing legends like Linda Benson (the first woman to surf Waimea Bay, Hawaii), Kim Mearig (one of the first women to be sponsored by shaper Al Merrick), Lisa Andersen (who put women’s surfing on the radar), Ashley Lloyd (one of the first females shapers), and many more. All of these surfer chicas are worth Googling as they should be a part of any surfing buff's repertoire. These women are inspiration for all surfers who cannot expect to make a living from surfing but want to find a way to surf forever while still having a life.

After the screening of the film there was an open forum discussing experiences we have had in the water- from both women and men. Everything from snaking in to how to get the best wave at The Pass was discussed (general consensus was to stay away from The Pass). The discussion was led by phD student Rebecca Olive who is doing her thesis on women’s surfing. How cool is that?
Also showcased were local Byron women kicking arse in the water and in the worlds of art, music, and fashion. While Tracy Mae and Jess Trebalco strummed out toe-tapping tunes, the movie-goers viewed paintings, photography, and surfboards by artists Tracy Mae, James McMillan, and Deborah Tinker. On display were fashion designs by Lyloh and Misfit, who co-run Eco-Mama. Kath, Eco-Mama's yoga class instructor*, sold delicious home-made chili, and lemon drink

It was an awesome night. The atmosphere was casual and relaxed, the local talent was rocking, and it was super-inspiring to see such dedicated women who not only rip on the water but eloquently describe their love of the waves and experiences with surfing. Thanks again to everyone who put together such a fantastic night!

*Eco-Mama ladies yoga classes, Tuesdays 6-8pm, 7 Marvel St.

Editor: Kate Newton