ABOUT US

Who are we? 

The Noosa International Surfilm Festival is a community-driven event initiated by Festival Founder & Director, Jesca Maas. 

Jesca is supported by a small, dedicated committee of surf culture enthusiasts, who share a common vision to create an international event that will showcase the incredible value of surf and oceans films within our culture.

Renowned for founding the Yallingup Surfilm Festival (WA) in 2010 and 2012, regarded as one of the most highly successful festival platforms of its time, Jesca has now brought this concept to Noosa. She has called Noosa home for the past decade and as head of The Event Artisan, is an accomplished and experienced event manager. 

Jesca is passionate about her commitment to crafting unforgettable experiences for attendees. Beyond her professional pursuits, she is an avid ocean enthusiast, finding ultimate joy in her surfski sessions..

Images courtesy of Birth of the Endless Summer.

how it began

We conceived the idea in September 2023 with a vision to reignite a communal space where individuals from diverse backgrounds and ages converge to share their passion for surfing and for those cultural experiences with foster inspiration and connectedness. 

Our aim was to create an immersive experience in surf culture on the big screen, breaking away from the digital streaming world, for a brief yet impactful gathering. 

This event promises to deliver a program filled with film, music and art. Most importantly, it will be a celebration of the evolving global surf culture, inviting everyone to embrace its fresh and continual influences.

Driven by a longing to rekindle the vibrant spirit of surf film festivals, Jesca swiftly embraced this opportunity. Now, as we move into our third year, we continue to grow this shared space for film, culture and community to come together. 

What you can expect!

Three days and nights. Big Screen. Big Sound.

Join us in Noosa for a celebration of the very best surf and ocean films from Australia and around the world — from powerful environmental documentaries to bold independent surf cinema and fresh premiere screenings you won’t see anywhere else first.

Expect:

  • World, Australian and Queensland Premieres

  • Filmmaker Q&As with surfers, ocean storytellers and industry legends

  • GromShorts Surf Film Fest – the next generation on the big screen

  • The inaugural Sea & Surf Media Summit

  • Buzzing festival gatherings

Beyond the beauty of perfect waves, NISFF 2026 explores the powerful stories of culture, creativity, and ocean conservation shaping our coastal future.

Think breathtaking cinematography. Original soundtracks. Raw human journeys. Films that make you want to paddle out, take action, or start creating yourself.

More than a film festival, this is a meeting point for surfers, filmmakers, ocean lovers and curious minds.

We have partnered with the Noosa World Surfing Reserve, and we’re proud to champion sustainable and environmental practices to keep our coast in top shape.

Dinner Slot & Festival Dining

We’ve created a dedicated “Dinner Slot” in the programme so you can grab a proper meal between sessions and not go hungry during the evening screenings.

Opening Night Legends Function

After many requests, we’re opening up our once-exclusive Opening Night Legends Function.

This is a true opening night celebration — including a welcome drink, generous canapés (you won’t go hungry), and your opportunity to meet, mingle and connect with the filmmakers and legends of the festival.

The Surf & Ocean Media Summit

For those passionate about the craft — emerging filmmakers, creatives, or anyone curious about how surf and ocean films are made — the Surf & Ocean Media Summit is a half-day industry gathering designed to inform and inspire.

Speakers and location to be announced.

The Venue

NOOSA EVENT CINEMAS

Where all screenings and Q&As will take place over the four day festival program.