Surf enthusiasts, film lovers, and those passionate about personal resilience are invited to an inspiring screening event at Noosa Event Cinemas on 18 March, where breathtaking storytelling and lived experiences take centre stage.
The Noosa Festival of Surfing in collaboration with the Noosa International Surfilm Festival is presenting a powerful evening of film, music, and conversation.
The evening kicks off at 6pm with live music from talented local artist Emma Tomlinson.
Attendees are encouraged to arrive early, grab a drink, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere before the films begin.
This special event will showcase two powerful films, each offering an intimate look at the strength of the human spirit and the transformative role of surfing, the ocean and nature.
Tonic Blue is a deeply personal short film by Noosa local Danielle Tomlinson, set in the stunning landscapes of Little Cove and the Noosa Hinterland (Cooran).
This premiere shares Danielle’s incredible journey of resilience and recovery following a traumatic brain injury, emphasising the therapeutic power of surfing and community.
Surviving to Thriving is an awe-inspiring documentary following Byron Bay surfer Karin Ochsner as she overcomes extraordinary challenges, including past trauma, a rare immune illness, and even a harrowing shark encounter.
Featuring interviews with surfing legends such as Delta Kay, Pauline Menczer, Kieren Perrow, Joel Fitzgerald, Layne Beachley, and Joel Paxton, this film is a testament to the power of perseverance and connection.
Following the screenings, a compelling panel discussion will offer deeper insights into the themes explored in the films.
Joining the conversation are:
– Karin Ochsner – Featured surfer in Surviving to Thriving
– Danielle Tomlinson – Creator of Tonic Blue and brain injury survivor
– Damien Cole – Former Surfrider Foundation president, sharing his recovery journey following a traumatic brain injury sustained in a serious car accident in Los Angeles
The discussion will be moderated by Livia Hanich, an Emmy-nominated and Peabody Award-winning producer with over 30 years in the screen industry. Having worked on major productions for Netflix, Disney, NBC/Universal, and the Producers Guild of America, Livia now champions regional screen development as a founding board member of the Sunshine Coast Screen Collective.
Event details: A night of remarkable stories, stunning cinematography, and heartfelt conversations.
Where: Noosa Event Cinemas
When: 18 March
Doors open: 6pm | Film Screening: 6.30pm
For more information and ticket details, visit events.humanitix.com/surviving-to-thriving-noosa-heads
