The festival kicks off Wednesday February 20, when McTavish presents a short film and photo exhibition by surfing World Champion and special guest Tom Carroll. On Thursday, the creative vibes continue with a National Photography Competition at the newly opened McTavish Outpost – grab a beverage and enjoy live beats, with entrant work showcased and winners selected by Byron Bay photographers Craig Parry and Ming Nomchong. Thursday’s line up continues with the Surf Legends Lounge at Byron Bay Community Centre, hosted by Vaughan Blakey, former Editor of Surfing World Magazine, with special guests Rasta and Mark Occhilupo sharing their views on hot surf topics including sustainability, boards, fins, surf culture and the future of the industry.

There’s a hefty dose of girl power in Friday’s line-up with The Women’s Panel at the Beach Hotel featuring the likes of real-life Wonder Woman Steph Gilmore, former World Champion Lisa Anderson and Longboard World Champion Kelia Moniz. On Saturday, roll up your sleeves and get involved in the Beach Clean-Up hosted by Clean Coast Collective, then enjoy the Surf Art Markets and live music at the Beach Hotel. On Sunday, another year is signed off with the Freestyle and Stoke Surf Sessions at Wategos beach including the inaugural festival party wave, and a big Festival Wrap Up Party at The Beachy. That’s just the tip of the iceberg, pals – for the full program and more information, head over to the Byron Bay Surf Festival website.

Images courtesy of Byron Bay Surf Festival