Surf Life unpacked by local publishing pair

ANGLESEA author Gill Hutchison and photographer Willem Dirk du Toit have provided Surf Coast locals with an insight into the world of publishing during a special local event for Melbourne’s Art Book Fair that wrapped up at the weekend.

Held at South Coast Surfboards in Torquay last Thursday, ‘Surf Life: from passion project to publication’ explored how the Anglesea author/photographer pair’s dream book ‘Surf Life’ came to fruition over close to a decade.

Published in September 2022, Surf Life details women in surfing who are strong, independent and resilient, and are incredible surfers who live, work and create in Australia.

To bring their dreams to life, Ms Hutchison and Mr du Toit ventured across Australia, finding out about the lives of more than 25 women who share their experiences and creative processes that bring them to the sea.

In Ms Hutchinson’s words, the book represented freedom, creative expression and a connection to nature, ultimately celebrating all the women who live to surf and create.

Ms Hutchinson said it was fantastic to share some of the background behind the project and hoped the story inspired others to chase their publishing and writing dreams.

“It was so great to have this event and to share our publication with our audience, some of whom hadn’t heard about or read the book before.

“It was ironic and quite special to relive the whole process of making our dream book by holding this event.

“It was eight years in the making to get the book up and going and to see our passion project evolve and come to life has been amazing.

“Gladly, the book continues to be exposed to new audiences and it makes us very proud that sharing our knowledge continues to motivate others to chase their passion projects.”

More than 80 publishers statewide presented their books, magazines, and art prints in both regional and metropolitan locations during the 2023 Melbourne Art Book Fair.

The Melbourne Art Book Fair was held from May 18 to 28.