Surf festival to take a high line into Torquay

CONNECTION and celebration will be at the forefront of a women’s surf festival returning to Torquay next month.

The annual High Line Festival will take place on March 28 and March 29 and feature a selection of events, workshops and experiences for women and non-binary surfers of all ages and abilities

The event will start with an opening night celebration at Patagonia’s Torquay store on the evening of March 28.

Festivities officially begin on March 29, starting with a Welcome to Country and guided walk on country from Wadawurrung Traditional Owners.

The High Line tag team surf event will follow, and then afternoon proceedings will include Perla Tacos and drinks from Blackman’s Brewery in the Torquay Surf Life Saving Club beer garden.

Live music, art, surf coaching, movement, dance workshops, awards and keynote panels are also locked in.

Festival co-directors Noelani Le Nevez and Sam Suendermann said excitement was high heading into the event.

“This year we hope to explore new ways of building connection, sharing stories and perhaps explore tangible outcomes for and by festival participants,” Ms Le Nevez said.

“Our inaugural festival last year was such a special day. Watching everyone come together, learn, smile, share and celebrate our love of surfing was very powerful,” Ms Suendermann added.

“This year we are focusing even more on sharing our stories and actively discussing what the future of women and non-binary surfing could look like.”

A total of 50 per cent of profits from the event will go to Killara – Geelong Indigenous Women’s Hub.

Event sponsorships, donations and prizes are welcomed.

For tickets and more information, head to highlinesurffest.com