Surfing legend says growth can still lead to salad days on coast

Alex de Vos
One of Australia’s most influential surfing figures has advised Torquay surfers to transform into “the hunter” to cope with residential growth on the Surf Coast.
Legendary surfboard shaper and surfer Bob McTavis said he did not want to be drawn into debates about the future of Torquay’s Spring Creek or plans to redevelop his former stomping ground of Bells Beach.
But he labelled growth “inevitable” and urged residents to deal with the change.
“I’ve seen Noosa explode from a population of 70 to 15,000 and I’ve seen Byron Bay grow from 1000 to 20,000,” Mr McTavish said.
“They’re still great places.”
Mr McTavish, who will visit Torquay next week to launch his new book, said surfers had to become “more selective” to adapt to growth.
“Back in the 1960s the whole coast was my oyster but now you’ve got thousands of people down at Torquay – you’ve got to become the hunter,” he said.
Mr McTavis likened the feeling of finding a wave to himself along the Surf Coast to winning a prize.
“I’m checking the surf every day and find it more exciting to score uncrowded waves – but you’ve got to hunt to get it.”
Mr McTavish encouraged residents to shift their attention to the benefits of residential growth.
“Back in the ‘60s you couldn’t get a good cappuccino or a good Greek salad,” Mr McTavish said.
“People are also much more environmentally conscious now.”
Mr McTavish will sign copies of his book, Stoked, at Tigerfish Gallery on Wednesday.