2012 Board Swap and ‘Come Hell or High Water’ Premier

Patagonia Torquay held it’s annual 2012 Summer Board Swap, with awesome weather and a great crew in attendance. The event was followed by The Australian Premier of the highly anticipated body surfing film by Keith Malloy, ‘Come Hell Or High Water’.

The ‘Board Swap’ is aimed at giving the local community a meeting place to sell, trade and swap surf-craft. Encouraging the re-use of boards that may otherwise lie dormant in the back of your shed, eventually turning to land-fill. Its a great way to give boards ‘new life’ and pass the stoke onto other surfers, helping out the beginners to experienced establish a quiver that suits their immediate needs.

Victoria turned on amazing weather; clear blue skies, bright shining sun and a light sea breeze. The perfect setting for a day of community, music, enthusiasm and oceanic inspiration.

Amidst the Patagonia Torquay grounds were 100 boards lining the driveway, whilst over 250 people passed through the event. The sun kept shining into the afternoon as everyone rocked out to the fresh new tunes from local band Ghost Mutt. Featuring Patagonia team rider Jarrah Lynch on drums the ambiance and good vibes created by the band flowed right into the evening.
 

Organic Steam Ale by Mountain Goat was a cool welcome to the 180 guests arriving for the highly anticipated premier of ‘Come Hell Or High Water’. After a long drive south, Patagonia ambassador Belinda Baggs made a special appearance introducing the film. After being encouraged and instructed on bodysurfing by the Malloy’s, Belinda was honored to be a small part of the film. Belinda said “Keith’s passion for bodysurfing and the ocean is perfectly portrayed by his film, its extremely inspiring to see such ‘real’ and beautiful footage. He is sharing his experiences in the ocean with us in every wave.”

Right before the film began 2 lucky guests received hand planes generously donated by Jason Westman in the lucky ‘under your seat’ give away. Silence swept through the make shift cinema as the underwater scenes commenced the film. It was the first wave of Bill Coleman, the pioneer of bodysurfing in 1955 that brought upon hoots and cheers. The stoked spread throughout the entirety of the screening. With positive raving reviews and a ‘sold out’ DVD within minutes after the end of the film. I think its safe to say that the audience walked away feeling inspired and stoked on the film.

It was a great day shared by all. Thanks to all the Patagonia staff that made it possible. and a special thankyou to Brett Girvan- filming and Kaz Walsh– photos.

Background Photo: by Mike Tittel