If you’re surfing around Torquay at not wearing a 4/3 at the moment, then you don’t own one. It’s winter next week and despite the water temperature dropping faster than the Australian dollar, theres plenty of joy to be had surfing through later autumn and early winter on the Victorian Surf Coast.
Having a glassy dawn wave to yourself at Winki is one of the highlights of winter. Image by Alison Aprhys.
However, to get the most out of the coldest season, there’s a few essential rites::
Thou shall drive to the beach in your wetsuit so there’s no excuse for not going out if the waves are good. You’re already dressed, you night as well go out and get a few.
Thou shall go surfing with a friend and encourage each other not to wuss out – it’s easy to think it’s too cold but if you know your mate is in the car park waiting, you’ll be motivated.
Thou shall enjoy the change in seasons – sure it’s colder out there now - but the sea smells more briny, the air is crisp, different sigh and birds are about and the sunrises with mist spectacular.
Thou shall have a thermos of hot coffee / tea / milo in the car for an après-surf warm up on hands and core. Honest, having a hot drink makes a huge difference to warming up.
Thou shall have a darn good hot breakfast after that surf and defrosting shower! Food tastes fabulous after an icy wave or 10. Hot coffee, jammy toast, pancakes, poached eggs and crispy bacon, porridge with berries and yogurt or a bubbling grilled ham and cheese spring to mind if not to stomach. But if you are eating out and about, think twice before scoffing a usual pie and sauce because the most goodness appears to be in the latter!
According to independent consumer advocate Choice there’s not much meat in those pies! And let's face it, so many more delicious breakafast options to enjoy.
Thou shall have two wetsuits – nothing is worse than pulling on dank and damp wetsuit. And it’s easier to pull your wetsuit off in the shower if you can wait that long to change.
Remember that no matter how ordinary your surf or the waves, it’s still the best way to start or finish your day.
