New film tells an impossible story

A NEW documentary explores the people and character of a unique surf beach near Torquay under increasing pressure from tourism and development.

Respect Point Impossible looks at the Indigenous, contemporary and surfing history of the place and asks surfers, beach lovers and coastal managers what makes this beach important and why it should be protected.

The documentary, which was screened recently at the Australian National Surfing Museum as part of a double feature with Patagonia film Never Town, is designed to raise awareness of the impacts of overdevelopment and tourism on sensitive coastal areas.

In the past 20 years, Torquay and the southern suburbs of Geelong have witnessed a massive growth in housing and development. The once-quiet beach of Point Impossible is now under pressure from over tourism, pollution, litter and overcrowding.

Respect Point Impossible examines the role the surfing community has played in “trashing” the environment and after a point of realisation, devoted significant amounts of time and energy in an effort to protect and preserve its natural assets.

Written and directed by local surfer and award winning producer John Foss (No Way To Forget, Harry’s War), Respect Point Impossible features unique stories, rare footage and original music by Ian Kitney (Overnight Jones/Tim Rogers) and Oscar Lalor.

Documentary producers Surfrider Foundation Surf Coast have a long history of working to protect and preserve the natural environment at Point Impossible and other beaches along the Surf Coast.

For more information on the film, head to surfrider.org.au.