Submissions are now open for the 2026 Noosa International Surfilm Festival (NISFF), taking place 13–16 August 2026 in Noosa.
NISFF continues to position itself as a leading platform for surf and ocean cinema across the Asia Pacific region — celebrating powerful storytelling, cinematography, culture and environmental connection.
Festival Founder and Executive Producer Jesca Maas said the 2026 call-out invites filmmakers from across the globe to share stories that connect communities through the ocean.
“NISFF is about far more than waves — it’s about culture, environment, youth, and the deep human connection to the sea. We’re calling for films that move audiences, honour surf heritage, elevate emerging voices, and spark meaningful conversations,” she said.
The 2026 festival will once again feature a highly respected and diverse judging panel drawn from across surf filmmaking, literature, media, surf champions and cultural preservation.
Judges confirmed to date include surf filmmaker and photographer Dick Hoole, surf filmmaker Spencer Frost, filmmaker and podcaster Lauren Hill, author and surf journalist Dr Tim Baker, filmmaker and leader of The Surf Film Archive Jolyon Hoff, surfer and creative Laure Mayer, producer, writer, filmmaker Mick Sowry, world tour long boarder and surf coach Dylan MacLeod, Australian longboard champion Peppie Simpson, filmmaker, surf culture legend and surfboard craftsman Tom Wegener and filmmaker, ocean activist and former WSL surfer Pacha Light.
NISFF is especially proud to welcome legendary filmmaker Dick Hoole to the 2026 judging line-up.
As one of Australia’s pioneering surf cinematographers, Hoole’s contribution to preserving surf history on film has shaped generations of storytellers. His presence adds enormous credibility and heritage depth to this year’s panel, Jesca said.
Filmmakers are invited to submit surf and ocean-inspired films of all lengths and genres via FilmFreeway.
Selected filmmakers will have their work screened at Noosa Event Cinemas as part of a curated four-day program bringing together surfers, filmmakers, ocean advocates, industry professionals and audiences from across Australia and beyond.
Following the strong momentum of its launch, GromShorts Film Fest returns in 2026 as a key initiative of NISFF.
Submissions for GromShorts open 10 April 2026.
Designed for filmmakers aged 18 and under, GromShorts provides young creatives with the opportunity to see their surf or ocean short film screened on the big screen, while connecting with industry mentors and professionals.
“Investing in youth storytelling is central to NISFF’s future,” Jesca Maas said. “GromShorts gives emerging filmmakers a platform, professional encouragement, and a moment that can truly shape their creative journey.”
For submission guidelines and full details, visit nisff.com.au/submissions
