Torquay, 1969. Two men. One old sewing machine. A hunch that there might be a niche in the expanding surf market for superior wetsuits.

That is where it started. From a cottage operation based around a pre-World War 2 Singer 1910 sewing machine, Rip Curl has become a vast company, employing around 1000 people globally.

Certain things, however, have not changed. The two men, Doug Warbrick and Brian Singer, still love surfing. The company is still striving to create better products for surfers. And Rip Curl is still based in Torquay, at the eastern end of the Great Ocean Road, just a few minutes from some of Australia’s best reef breaks.

The successful synthesis of business and beach culture is celebrated every Easter at the prestigious Rip Curl Pro surfing competition, which attracts the best and boldest boardriders in the world. ‘There are complex layers of culture, art and heritage in and around it,’ Doug says. ‘It has always been a meeting of the tribe for surfers from all over Australia and the world.’

Favourite Place to Stay
Lorne is great in any season

Favourite Day Trip
Down the Great Ocean Road to Kennett River on a day of big southerly winds.

Favourite Nature-Based Experience
Where there is a light northerely blowing I love going to Cape Otway National Park and then down to surf the amazine waves at Johanna beach.

Favourite Object
The big belly trophy for the Rip Curl Pro.

Brian's Favourite Day Trip
Drive to Port Campbell via inland roads and then come back along the Great Ocean Road.

Favourite Food Experience
Seafood from the Surf Rider Cafe (26 Bell St, Torquay, 03 5261 6477).