Gemma

Your name: Gemma MacKenzie from Sunshine Surf Girls.

About you in a few words and how you got to surfing: Hailing from NZ, I moved to Queensland in my early 20’s to pursue my career in Marine Science. Having been an avid snowboarder, the severe lack of anything resembling snow in Queensland left a hole in my soul. My now husband encouraged me to fill the void with surfing! And it worked!

Local break: Currimundi, Qld

What I love about surfing: What I love about surfing is the chance to get out in the water for some me time, in a beautiful relaxing environment, all whilst getting in some exercise and most importantly FUN! Every day and every wave is different and you’re always able to push yourself and learn something new or just chill and sit back and take it all in.

What I hate about surfing: Paddling, especially when it’s been a while between surfs.

What advice would you give to ladies starting out on their surf journey: Keep with it and go at your own pace. Find friends or family to enjoy the ride with, everything is better when you can share the experience with someone else.

Favourite surfspot in Oz: North Stradbroke Island is such a breath taking place, and has amazing surf to cater to all. From beginners to advanced, you can always find a fun wave.

Favourite surfspot overseas: To be honest I haven’t surfed much overseas! Mainly Mangawhai and Great Barrier Island in New Zealand. Both gorgeous places and good surf but take a wettie even in summer! Hoping to add Bali to that list later in the year.

Favourite surfboard: My Tom Curren design, 6’2” Al Merrick was the board I learnt to surf on, so it holds a special place in my heart.

Favourite surfer: Tyler Wright, Steph Gilmore

Favourite surf movie: Storm Surfers & Steph in the water

What you do when you are not surfing: Keeping up with my 2 young kids and co-publishing Sunshine Surf Girls; The Free Surf Magazine with the lovely Gidget Emma keeps me pretty busy!