Meet the team

Aaron Trevis

FOUNDER & CEO

Aaron Trevis is a Mining Engineer and Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. As the Founder Aaron is the driver behind the Surf Lakes™ project taking the technology concept from idea stage to start up and on to the global entity that is evolving today. Aaron has a diverse leadership and management background, covering underground coal mining, executive search and national leadership of a large not-for-profit organisation. As a keen surfer, he has a well-stated mission to take waves to the masses so that the thrill of surfing can be shared and enjoyed by anyone regardless of ability or location.

Aaron Trevis is a Mining Engineer and Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. As the Founder Aaron is the driver behind the Surf Lakes™ project taking the technology concept from idea stage to start up and on to the global entity that is evolving today. Aaron has a diverse leadership and management background, covering underground coal mining, executive search and national leadership of a large not-for-profit organisation. As a keen surfer, he has a well-stated mission to take waves to the masses so that the thrill of surfing can be shared and enjoyed by anyone regardless of ability or location.

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troy warfield

CHAIRMAN

Troy Warfield was appointed in March 2021 as Chief Executive at Oche to lead the company into its global expansion. He has an extensive executive-level background in sports media entertainment, luxury consumer industries, and travel and hospitality. Most recently, he was President of the sports and entertainment company Topgolf International, where he was responsible for the rapid international expansion program outside of North America, which involved building a strong global franchise footprint. Prior to Topgolf, he was an Executive Director of the Board and Brands and Customer Experience Director at British Airways. At Avis Budget Group, he was Chief Commercial Officer and also led the international franchising of the business. During his time at Kimberly Clark, Troy was Vice President of the European Family Care business and was also Managing Director of the UK and Ireland. He has also held senior roles at Unilever and is currently the Chairman for Surf Lakes. He is a very proud father of three children and enjoys giving back to the community via many charitable roles throughout his career, coaching his son’s rugby, and being with friends.

Troy Warfield was appointed in March 2021 as Chief Executive at Oche to lead the company into its global expansion. He has an extensive executive-level background in sports media entertainment, luxury consumer industries, and travel and hospitality. Most recently, he was President of the sports and entertainment company Topgolf International, where he was responsible for the rapid international expansion program outside of North America, which involved building a strong global franchise footprint. Prior to Topgolf, he was an Executive Director of the Board and Brands and Customer Experience Director at British Airways. At Avis Budget Group, he was Chief Commercial Officer and also led the international franchising of the business. During his time at Kimberly Clark, Troy was Vice President of the European Family Care business and was also Managing Director of the UK and Ireland. He has also held senior roles at Unilever and is currently the Chairman for Surf Lakes. He is a very proud father of three children and enjoys giving back to the community via many charitable roles throughout his career, coaching his son’s rugby, and being with friends.

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JOHN DIDDAMS

NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

John joined the board in November 2019 and is a professional Non-executive Director with a proven track record of taking companies from pre-IPO through to IPO and exit. John has over forty years experience as a CFO, CEO, and director of both private and publicly listed companies. He has extensive knowledge and experience in the practical application of ASX Listing Rules, Australian corporations’ law, international accounting standards, and corporate governance principles. Over the past 25 years, John has managed the process to raise capital, perform due diligence and seek ASX listing for a number of diverse enterprises, including oil and gas interests, food distribution and retail, a fine wool processing plant, an innovative telephony product, a biotech company, an Internet advertising initiative, a dental device for snoring and sleep apnoea, an indoor skydiving company, an aircraft start-up, a breast care tech company, an adventure tourism company and a healthy fast food restaurant chain. John holds a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of NSW, is a Fellow of the Australian Society of CPAs, and a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. John is currently a Non-executive Director of Volpara Health Technologies Limited (ASX: VHT) and Aroa Biosurgery Limited and was until recently a Non-executive Director of Experience Co Limited (ASX: EXP), an adventure tourism business operating in Australia and NZ.

John joined the board in November 2019 and is a professional Non-executive Director with a proven track record of taking companies from pre-IPO through to IPO and exit. John has over forty years experience as a CFO, CEO, and director of both private and publicly listed companies. He has extensive knowledge and experience in the practical application of ASX Listing Rules, Australian corporations’ law, international accounting standards, and corporate governance principles. Over the past 25 years, John has managed the process to raise capital, perform due diligence and seek ASX listing for a number of diverse enterprises, including oil and gas interests, food distribution and retail, a fine wool processing plant, an innovative telephony product, a biotech company, an Internet advertising initiative, a dental device for snoring and sleep apnoea, an indoor skydiving company, an aircraft start-up, a breast care tech company, an adventure tourism company and a healthy fast food restaurant chain. John holds a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of NSW, is a Fellow of the Australian Society of CPAs, and a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. John is currently a Non-executive Director of Volpara Health Technologies Limited (ASX: VHT) and Aroa Biosurgery Limited and was until recently a Non-executive Director of Experience Co Limited (ASX: EXP), an adventure tourism business operating in Australia and NZ.

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REUBEN BUCHANAN

NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Reuben is one of the founding Directors of Surf Lakes Holdings Ltd. He has over 22 years experience in the finance, investment, and media industries. He was the Founder of Wealth Creator Magazine in 2002, which he later sold. He also co-founded Wholesale Investor in 2008, founded Axstra Capital in 2010, and holds an Australian Financial Services License. Today Reuben specialises in corporate finance and capital raising, having raised over $120m in equity for his clients in the last 10 years. He has participated in two ASX listings, served on several Prospectus Due Diligence Committees, and was previously a Director of a small cap ASX listed tech company.

Reuben is one of the founding Directors of Surf Lakes Holdings Ltd. He has over 22 years experience in the finance, investment, and media industries. He was the Founder of Wealth Creator Magazine in 2002, which he later sold. He also co-founded Wholesale Investor in 2008, founded Axstra Capital in 2010, and holds an Australian Financial Services License. Today Reuben specialises in corporate finance and capital raising, having raised over $120m in equity for his clients in the last 10 years. He has participated in two ASX listings, served on several Prospectus Due Diligence Committees, and was previously a Director of a small cap ASX listed tech company.

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Joshua Hamlin

NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR & HEAD OF LEGAL

Josh is a seasoned attorney with combined experience in both law firm and in-house positions. In previous roles, Josh has worked in various industries as outside Corporate Counsel, Chief Legal Officer, as well as a member of the Board of Directors and various committees, overseeing corporate, legal, and financial compliance for cross-border and international firms. Throughout these diverse positions he has developed specific knowledge and expertise in a wide range of both legal and business matters including corporate transactions, intellectual property & licensing agreements, mergers & acquisitions, securities transactions, capital investment, initial public offerings (IPOs), reverse take-over transactions (RTOs), risk mitigation & management, government affairs, legislative lobbying, and strategic development.

Josh is a seasoned attorney with combined experience in both law firm and in-house positions. In previous roles, Josh has worked in various industries as outside Corporate Counsel, Chief Legal Officer, as well as a member of the Board of Directors and various committees, overseeing corporate, legal, and financial compliance for cross-border and international firms. Throughout these diverse positions he has developed specific knowledge and expertise in a wide range of both legal and business matters including corporate transactions, intellectual property & licensing agreements, mergers & acquisitions, securities transactions, capital investment, initial public offerings (IPOs), reverse take-over transactions (RTOs), risk mitigation & management, government affairs, legislative lobbying, and strategic development.

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LEWIS GlYNN

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER

Lewis has over a decade of experience managing large and complex construction projects up to $2bn in value as well as founding his own smaller constriction and development companies.
 
Lewis’ project experience includes aquatic centres, Sydney Harbour marinas, high-rise mixed-use developments, sports stadiums, luxury hotels, and residential towers (100m+ high). In central London, Lewis was the Technical Manager for a $2bn mixed-use development for the Berkeley Group. More recently, Lewis joins us from one of Australia’s largest project management consultancy firms where he managed a Business Unit. There, Lewis and his team managed a diverse $1bn+ portfolio from development and design through to construction.
 
Lewis’ passion for surfing and background as RNLI senior lifeguard led him to pursue aquatic projects with the aim of eventually taking that to the Surf Park industry.

Lewis has over a decade of experience managing large and complex construction projects up to $2bn in value as well as founding his own smaller constriction and development companies.
 
Lewis’ project experience includes aquatic centres, Sydney Harbour marinas, high-rise mixed-use developments, sports stadiums, luxury hotels, and residential towers (100m+ high). In central London, Lewis was the Technical Manager for a $2bn mixed-use development for the Berkeley Group. More recently, Lewis joins us from one of Australia’s largest project management consultancy firms where he managed a Business Unit. There, Lewis and his team managed a diverse $1bn+ portfolio from development and design through to construction.
 
Lewis’ passion for surfing and background as RNLI senior lifeguard led him to pursue aquatic projects with the aim of eventually taking that to the Surf Park industry.

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JOVEN DEMONTEVERDE

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

Joven has over a decade of experience as an accountant in both public practice and commercial industry; and has owned and operated several businesses, two of which he has successfully sold. He has consulted to numerous businesses as their Financial Controller and CFO and has helped raise in excess of $30m for several companies, some of which he has helped take through to IPO. Having worked with countless SMEs over the years, Joven brings both breadth and depth of experience in the areas of cash flow management, financial modelling, and business intelligence in supporting key business decisions.

Joven has over a decade of experience as an accountant in both public practice and commercial industry; and has owned and operated several businesses, two of which he has successfully sold. He has consulted to numerous businesses as their Financial Controller and CFO and has helped raise in excess of $30m for several companies, some of which he has helped take through to IPO. Having worked with countless SMEs over the years, Joven brings both breadth and depth of experience in the areas of cash flow management, financial modelling, and business intelligence in supporting key business decisions.

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TONY LINES

HEAD OF PEOPLE AND CULTURE

Tony is a senior HR Specialist with extensive experience in the tourism and hospitality sectors. His HR career has spanned over 40 years with areas of expertise including Industrial and Employee Relations, Policy Development, Performance Management, Employee Engagement and Learning & Development. He has served on the Tourism Training Qld. Executive as a member of a Tourism Australia industry committee. He is a board member of AALARA (the peak national body for the amusement industry) and has served on the board for many years, including 2 years as president. He has been involved with the international amusement industry association (IAAPA) as a committee member, international trainer and speaker in Australia, Asia and the USA. Tony joined the Surf Lakes team in November 2020, setting up Human Resources (HR) systems and constantly assists in growing the team.

Tony is a senior HR Specialist with extensive experience in the tourism and hospitality sectors. His HR career has spanned over 40 years with areas of expertise including Industrial and Employee Relations, Policy Development, Performance Management, Employee Engagement and Learning & Development. He has served on the Tourism Training Qld. Executive as a member of a Tourism Australia industry committee. He is a board member of AALARA (the peak national body for the amusement industry) and has served on the board for many years, including 2 years as president. He has been involved with the international amusement industry association (IAAPA) as a committee member, international trainer and speaker in Australia, Asia and the USA. Tony joined the Surf Lakes team in November 2020, setting up Human Resources (HR) systems and constantly assists in growing the team.

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RYAN NIXON

HEAD OF LICENSING AND CONSTRUCTION

Ryan is a degree-qualified civil engineer that has worked in construction project management for over 11 years. Working on both major infrastructure and private sector projects, he has experience collaborating with a broad range of clients, consultants, and authorities. Also holding a Diploma in Building and Construction, and a QBCC Site Supervisors license, Ryan enjoys leading teams in the commercial building, industrial, and land development sectors. As part of the Project Delivery team, Ryan’s role will be to engage with project owners, consultants, and contractors to deliver Surf Lakes to any location. As a keen surfer and (amateur) Australian travel advocate, Ryan is excited to play a key role in Surf Lake facilities being constructed across the nation.

Ryan is a degree-qualified civil engineer that has worked in construction project management for over 11 years. Working on both major infrastructure and private sector projects, he has experience collaborating with a broad range of clients, consultants, and authorities. Also holding a Diploma in Building and Construction, and a QBCC Site Supervisors license, Ryan enjoys leading teams in the commercial building, industrial, and land development sectors. As part of the Project Delivery team, Ryan’s role will be to engage with project owners, consultants, and contractors to deliver Surf Lakes to any location. As a keen surfer and (amateur) Australian travel advocate, Ryan is excited to play a key role in Surf Lake facilities being constructed across the nation.

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BRAD HUTCHINS

HEAD OF MARKETING

Brad is an avid surfer and marketer with a dynamic resume in the communications field. From working with Rip Curl to managing Surfing Australia’s SurfGroms program, to senior writer at Surfing Life magazine, Brad has built a great network within the surf industry. Brad has written freelance articles for several other publications including Tracks, White Horses, The Intertia, and Boss Hunting. His first book, ‘Game, Set, Cash’ was published in 2014. After transitioning from an education background and completing his Master of Communications at Bond University (where he wrote a dissertation on the diffusion of wave pool technology), Brad worked with several creative agencies to hone his PR, event management, and marketing skillset. Brad’s role is pivotal in sharing Surf Lakes’ world-class content and unique innovations with the world.

Brad is an avid surfer and marketer with a dynamic resume in the communications field. From working with Rip Curl to managing Surfing Australia’s SurfGroms program, to senior writer at Surfing Life magazine, Brad has built a great network within the surf industry. Brad has written freelance articles for several other publications including Tracks, White Horses, The Intertia, and Boss Hunting. His first book, ‘Game, Set, Cash’ was published in 2014. After transitioning from an education background and completing his Master of Communications at Bond University (where he wrote a dissertation on the diffusion of wave pool technology), Brad worked with several creative agencies to hone his PR, event management, and marketing skillset. Brad’s role is pivotal in sharing Surf Lakes’ world-class content and unique innovations with the world.

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BRADY ZIeTH

HEAD OF ENGINEERING & PRODUCTION

Brady is a Civil Engineer with over 13 years of project experience working for one of the world’s leading engineering, procurement and construction companies.  Working in the mining and heavy industry sector, Brady has developed a broad knowledge of civil design, specialising in areas of hydrology, hydraulics, earthworks, and roadworks. He has worked on major projects throughout Australia and internationally and spent time in the UAE as part of the project team to deliver the country’s first alumina refinery.  Brady utilises his experience in managing contractors, suppliers, and design consultants to support in planning, scheduling, and preparing budgets and cost estimates.  Brady has always had an affinity to water and beaches and aims to provide innovation and value to the team in design stages through to construction, whilst also improving his own surfing skills!

Brady is a Civil Engineer with over 13 years of project experience working for one of the world’s leading engineering, procurement and construction companies.  Working in the mining and heavy industry sector, Brady has developed a broad knowledge of civil design, specialising in areas of hydrology, hydraulics, earthworks, and roadworks. He has worked on major projects throughout Australia and internationally and spent time in the UAE as part of the project team to deliver the country’s first alumina refinery.  Brady utilises his experience in managing contractors, suppliers, and design consultants to support in planning, scheduling, and preparing budgets and cost estimates.  Brady has always had an affinity to water and beaches and aims to provide innovation and value to the team in design stages through to construction, whilst also improving his own surfing skills!

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TIM CAPPER

TECHNICAL PRINCIPAL

Tim Capper is an electrical engineer and passionate surfer with over 15 years of experience in heavy industry such as water and wastewater, mining, chemical plants, oil and gas, materials handling, bitumen, and asphalt plants. Tim has been involved in serval greenfield and brownfield projects throughout Australia and internationally. With an emphasis on LV systems, Tim is technically strong in electrical design and is proficient in control system design having completed programming and commissioning in several projects. Tim is an experienced project manager with a technical background to support projects from the conceptional design stage through to completion.

Tim Capper is an electrical engineer and passionate surfer with over 15 years of experience in heavy industry such as water and wastewater, mining, chemical plants, oil and gas, materials handling, bitumen, and asphalt plants. Tim has been involved in serval greenfield and brownfield projects throughout Australia and internationally. With an emphasis on LV systems, Tim is technically strong in electrical design and is proficient in control system design having completed programming and commissioning in several projects. Tim is an experienced project manager with a technical background to support projects from the conceptional design stage through to completion.

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KIT SIDWELL

CO-INVENTOR / LEAD MECHANICAL AND R&D ENGINEER

Kit’s involvement with Surf Lakes began in 2015 when he designed the first automated scale prototype. After designing, constructing, and testing two further prototypes, he then developed the operating principles and mechanical architecture of the full-scale machine in Yeppoon. Kit is named on the patent for developing Surf Lakes’ technology. As Lead Mechanical Engineer, Kit works closely with all parties involved in machine-related design, construction, and commissioning, as well as performing his own specialist design tasks. He also heads up R&D where he continues pushing Surf Lakes technology to be more efficient, effective, and economic. Originally from New Zealand, Kit has worked as a mechanical design engineer, product developer and consultant across a range of industries and project scopes. His background includes a variety of applications such as hovercraft, aircraft, surfboard manufacturing, minerals processing equipment, and consulting in a variety of industrial fields. As a compulsive surfer and designer, Kit is right at home in a company that encourages him to fully indulge both of his passions.

Kit’s involvement with Surf Lakes began in 2015 when he designed the first automated scale prototype. After designing, constructing, and testing two further prototypes, he then developed the operating principles and mechanical architecture of the full-scale machine in Yeppoon. Kit is named on the patent for developing Surf Lakes’ technology. As Lead Mechanical Engineer, Kit works closely with all parties involved in machine-related design, construction, and commissioning, as well as performing his own specialist design tasks. He also heads up R&D where he continues pushing Surf Lakes technology to be more efficient, effective, and economic. Originally from New Zealand, Kit has worked as a mechanical design engineer, product developer and consultant across a range of industries and project scopes. His background includes a variety of applications such as hovercraft, aircraft, surfboard manufacturing, minerals processing equipment, and consulting in a variety of industrial fields. As a compulsive surfer and designer, Kit is right at home in a company that encourages him to fully indulge both of his passions.

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ED SZYMANSKI

QUALITY & TECHNICAL ADVISOR

Ed is a highly experienced engineer and senior manager with extensive experience within the heavy industry sector. He has a breadth of knowledge in engineering, commencing his career as a mechanical engineer, and quickly progressed into project engineering positions before moving into management roles on diverse greenfield and brownfield projects both locally and internationally. He promotes cross-functional teamwork, and continuous improvement and fosters diversity and inclusion to increase collaboration. He uses his corporate experience and technical knowledge to ensure project scheduling, quality, and cost targets are met. This is underpinned by solid capabilities in setting strategic direction for the engineering function and building long-term relationships with customers and internal stakeholders.

Ed is a highly experienced engineer and senior manager with extensive experience within the heavy industry sector. He has a breadth of knowledge in engineering, commencing his career as a mechanical engineer, and quickly progressed into project engineering positions before moving into management roles on diverse greenfield and brownfield projects both locally and internationally. He promotes cross-functional teamwork, and continuous improvement and fosters diversity and inclusion to increase collaboration. He uses his corporate experience and technical knowledge to ensure project scheduling, quality, and cost targets are met. This is underpinned by solid capabilities in setting strategic direction for the engineering function and building long-term relationships with customers and internal stakeholders.

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JOHN ROSS

PROJECT DIRECTOR, NORTH AMERICA

John started in the field as a commercial electrician and worked hard to receive his BA in Construction Management.  John has worked in construction for over 30 years.  Working on large residential developments, Hospitality, Senior Housing, World-class spa, Aircraft manufacturing, Restaurants, Timeshare projects, and Aquatic facilities from Hawaii to the East Coast of the United States.  Working with Clients from conceptual design and preliminary estimating through the construction and project completion and turnover.  John will be working with our Australian Project Management team, Surf Lakes Australian Engineers, and North American Architects, Engineers, Consultants, Vendors, and General Contractors, to provide our Licensees with quality Surf Lakes, built to the highest standards within the given time and budget constraints.  John is excited to join the Surf Lakes Team and loves to surf and sail in the ocean.

John started in the field as a commercial electrician and worked hard to receive his BA in Construction Management.  John has worked in construction for over 30 years.  Working on large residential developments, Hospitality, Senior Housing, World-class spa, Aircraft manufacturing, Restaurants, Timeshare projects, and Aquatic facilities from Hawaii to the East Coast of the United States.  Working with Clients from conceptual design and preliminary estimating through the construction and project completion and turnover.  John will be working with our Australian Project Management team, Surf Lakes Australian Engineers, and North American Architects, Engineers, Consultants, Vendors, and General Contractors, to provide our Licensees with quality Surf Lakes, built to the highest standards within the given time and budget constraints.  John is excited to join the Surf Lakes Team and loves to surf and sail in the ocean.

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JACKI PATTERSON

SITE MANAGER, YEPPOON

Jacki comes to the team as the Site Coordinator and all round good guy that keeps the wheels in Yeppoon moving. With her very commonsense approach to life and work, Jacki is often the voice of reason in a fast-moving project with many moving parts. Jacki Patterson fell into the vortex that is ‘Surf Lakes’, when we arrived in Yeppoon around 4 years ago. Initially as a shareholder, but being a local was heavily involved in the preparation of demonstration days, and has been the ‘gatekeeper’ for Surf Lakes in Yeppoon since the beginning. Jacki is a mum of 6 children with amazing organisational skills and a knack for getting things done. In a previous life before children, she has been an event coordinator, wedding planner, and photographer has done catering for small to very large events for many many years and has been an Early childhood educator for the past number of years.

Jacki comes to the team as the Site Coordinator and all round good guy that keeps the wheels in Yeppoon moving. With her very commonsense approach to life and work, Jacki is often the voice of reason in a fast-moving project with many moving parts. Jacki Patterson fell into the vortex that is ‘Surf Lakes’, when we arrived in Yeppoon around 4 years ago. Initially as a shareholder, but being a local was heavily involved in the preparation of demonstration days, and has been the ‘gatekeeper’ for Surf Lakes in Yeppoon since the beginning. Jacki is a mum of 6 children with amazing organisational skills and a knack for getting things done. In a previous life before children, she has been an event coordinator, wedding planner, and photographer has done catering for small to very large events for many many years and has been an Early childhood educator for the past number of years.

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TOMAS CROWDER

REGIONAL DIRECTOR OF SALES, LATAM & CARIBBEAN

Tomas is a true pioneer and innovator of the Latin American Surf Industry. 
In 1996, he founded Rad! Magazine, the first surf, action sports and youth culture magazine, opening offices in Argentina, Brazil and Miami. He then worked for Brazil’s Grupo Waves, the biggest Surf Expo, Event and Media Group in Brazil-LatAm. 
In 1999, he created the concept for the first ever Action Sports Theme Complex in Argentina called Punto Limite (Break Point) where he saw firsthand the need and potential of building thematic inland action sports venues. 
Tom was chosen by Red Bull to co-direct their Latin America office in Panama and worked to open in more than 13 countries all over Latin America, creating unique events and experiences. Through his NGO called “Boards for All”, Tom has been implementing many outreach programs while constructing several public skate plazas all over the continent.   
Following his passion for documenting the healing power of surfing and skating, he become a Professor of New Media, taught in several universities and then created Wu Wei Sports & Entertainment, a film and tv production company that produced the award-winning doc “Surfing Favela” (aired by Nat Geo Int and premiered at Sundance Film Festival), “The Other Che”, with top skate icon Ryan Sheckler (Fox US), and Apple’s “Shot on Iphone” worldwide campaign in Cuba last year, among others. 

Tomas is a true pioneer and innovator of the Latin American Surf Industry. 
In 1996, he founded Rad! Magazine, the first surf, action sports and youth culture magazine, opening offices in Argentina, Brazil and Miami. He then worked for Brazil’s Grupo Waves, the biggest Surf Expo, Event and Media Group in Brazil-LatAm. 
In 1999, he created the concept for the first ever Action Sports Theme Complex in Argentina called Punto Limite (Break Point) where he saw firsthand the need and potential of building thematic inland action sports venues. 
Tom was chosen by Red Bull to co-direct their Latin America office in Panama and worked to open in more than 13 countries all over Latin America, creating unique events and experiences. Through his NGO called “Boards for All”, Tom has been implementing many outreach programs while constructing several public skate plazas all over the continent.   
Following his passion for documenting the healing power of surfing and skating, he become a Professor of New Media, taught in several universities and then created Wu Wei Sports & Entertainment, a film and tv production company that produced the award-winning doc “Surfing Favela” (aired by Nat Geo Int and premiered at Sundance Film Festival), “The Other Che”, with top skate icon Ryan Sheckler (Fox US), and Apple’s “Shot on Iphone” worldwide campaign in Cuba last year, among others. 

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Karolina Grubel

INVESTOR RELATIONS & MARKETING COORDINATOR

Karolina joined Surf Lakes with the dual role of Investor Relations, and Marketing and Administrative Coordinator. With a Master of Marketing and Management degree from the University of Finance and Administration in the Czech Republic, she brings both creativity and a client-centric approach to her work, coupled with solid business and finance acumen. Karolina has over ten years of experience in the field of marketing, having managed all aspects of advertising and events from development to implementation.

Karolina joined Surf Lakes with the dual role of Investor Relations, and Marketing and Administrative Coordinator. With a Master of Marketing and Management degree from the University of Finance and Administration in the Czech Republic, she brings both creativity and a client-centric approach to her work, coupled with solid business and finance acumen. Karolina has over ten years of experience in the field of marketing, having managed all aspects of advertising and events from development to implementation.

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JULIAN BLANCHARD

LEGAL CONSULTANT & COMPANY SECRETARY

Julian Blanchard’s qualifications and experience: Julian has a bachelor of law (first class honours) and a Ph.D., both from the University of Adelaide and G.D.L.P. from SAIT.  He graduated in 1988 and has been a corporate and commercial lawyer ever since, including in private practice (e.g. Allens Arthur Robinson and currently his own boutique firm, Blanchard Legal), as an in-house lawyer (including for Billabong while it was listed on ASX) and as a University level academic.  He has previously acted as company secretary for various proprietary companies.

Julian Blanchard’s qualifications and experience: Julian has a bachelor of law (first class honours) and a Ph.D., both from the University of Adelaide and G.D.L.P. from SAIT.  He graduated in 1988 and has been a corporate and commercial lawyer ever since, including in private practice (e.g. Allens Arthur Robinson and currently his own boutique firm, Blanchard Legal), as an in-house lawyer (including for Billabong while it was listed on ASX) and as a University level academic.  He has previously acted as company secretary for various proprietary companies.

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BLAKE NEWTON

MECHANICAL ENGINEER

Blake is one of our Mechanical Engineers having graduated from Central Queensland University in 2021 with First Class Honours. Having grown up around the Yeppoon area he is a keen sailor and surfer. Blake has coached at the local sailing club for 8 years and competed around Australia, he is also a keen windsurfer trying to get out on the water at every opportunity. Upon the completion of his degree, he joined the Surf Lakes team first as a labourer at the Yeppoon site before joining the engineering team. Blake is based at the Yeppoon site and is very involved with running our waves there for our Demonstration days, assisting Kit Sidwell and often managing this on his own.
With an interest in mechanical systems, particularly learning, understanding and improving upon concepts, he is looking forward to working at Surf Lakes for many years, to continue refining and expanding his engineering knowledge and producing the best product possible.

Blake is one of our Mechanical Engineers having graduated from Central Queensland University in 2021 with First Class Honours. Having grown up around the Yeppoon area he is a keen sailor and surfer. Blake has coached at the local sailing club for 8 years and competed around Australia, he is also a keen windsurfer trying to get out on the water at every opportunity. Upon the completion of his degree, he joined the Surf Lakes team first as a labourer at the Yeppoon site before joining the engineering team. Blake is based at the Yeppoon site and is very involved with running our waves there for our Demonstration days, assisting Kit Sidwell and often managing this on his own.
With an interest in mechanical systems, particularly learning, understanding and improving upon concepts, he is looking forward to working at Surf Lakes for many years, to continue refining and expanding his engineering knowledge and producing the best product possible.

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TIM DELAHUNTY

EI&C ENGINEER

Tim Delahunty is a Graduate Electrical Engineer who is lucky enough to call the Gold Coast his home. 
As such, he has grown up with a deep passion for the ocean and surfing, formally being a professional lifeguard for 8 years. 
He has a keen interest in all aspects of electrical engineering but a particular curiosity for control systems. 
Tim completed his internship in San Diego where he worked on underground electrical distribution system design. 
Further, he also has drafting experience from his time in an engineering consultancy firm.
Tim looks forward to combining his passions of surfing and electrical engineering on the dynamic systems involved in creating a world-class
surf park. Tim is enthusiastic and ready to learn and overcome any challenge which may come his way.

Tim Delahunty is a Graduate Electrical Engineer who is lucky enough to call the Gold Coast his home. 
As such, he has grown up with a deep passion for the ocean and surfing, formally being a professional lifeguard for 8 years. 
He has a keen interest in all aspects of electrical engineering but a particular curiosity for control systems. 
Tim completed his internship in San Diego where he worked on underground electrical distribution system design. 
Further, he also has drafting experience from his time in an engineering consultancy firm.
Tim looks forward to combining his passions of surfing and electrical engineering on the dynamic systems involved in creating a world-class
surf park. Tim is enthusiastic and ready to learn and overcome any challenge which may come his way.

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MARK “OCCY” OCCHILUPO

WORLD CHAMPION SURFER

Mark Occhilupo began surfing at age 9 at Cronulla. By his mid-teens Occhilupo or “Occy” had quickly progressed to become one of the sports most prolific athletes when in 1984 (aged 16) he snuck in past surfing’s old guard and into the world top 16.With his defined power attack, the goofy footer laid claim to some of the best backhand performances ever seen in locations such as Bells Beach and Jeffrey’s Bay, while also dominating in the more testing condition of Pipeline Hawaii, where he won the Pipe Masters in 1985. In 1988 Occy drifted away from competition surfing but returned almost 10 years later to professional surfing world stage and in 1999 he finally claimed his much-deserved world champion crown (at age 33) and he continued to test his mettle on the world surfing tour until competition retirement in 2006. Occy is renowned for influencing three generations of surfers both with his unbridled wave-riding flair and his charismatic and extremely likable nature.

Mark Occhilupo began surfing at age 9 at Cronulla. By his mid-teens Occhilupo or “Occy” had quickly progressed to become one of the sports most prolific athletes when in 1984 (aged 16) he snuck in past surfing’s old guard and into the world top 16.With his defined power attack, the goofy footer laid claim to some of the best backhand performances ever seen in locations such as Bells Beach and Jeffrey’s Bay, while also dominating in the more testing condition of Pipeline Hawaii, where he won the Pipe Masters in 1985. In 1988 Occy drifted away from competition surfing but returned almost 10 years later to professional surfing world stage and in 1999 he finally claimed his much-deserved world champion crown (at age 33) and he continued to test his mettle on the world surfing tour until competition retirement in 2006. Occy is renowned for influencing three generations of surfers both with his unbridled wave-riding flair and his charismatic and extremely likable nature.

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BARTON LYNCH

WORLD CHAMPION SURFER

Barton Lynch has had a 15-year surfing career that started on the beach at Manly. He spent 13 consecutive years in the top 16, earning a reputation as a brilliant tactical competitor as well as a forthright and articulate spokesman for the sport. His greatest competitive moment came in Hawaii in 1988, where he won both the Pipe Masters and the ASP World Tour title. Barton loves writing and has been published in many magazines including Inside Sport Magazine, Surfing World, Australian Snowboarder and others. He is now known as one of the world’s leading surf coaches and expert commentators.

Barton Lynch has had a 15-year surfing career that started on the beach at Manly. He spent 13 consecutive years in the top 16, earning a reputation as a brilliant tactical competitor as well as a forthright and articulate spokesman for the sport. His greatest competitive moment came in Hawaii in 1988, where he won both the Pipe Masters and the ASP World Tour title. Barton loves writing and has been published in many magazines including Inside Sport Magazine, Surfing World, Australian Snowboarder and others. He is now known as one of the world’s leading surf coaches and expert commentators.

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LUCA DOBLE

JUNIOR LONGBOARD CHAMPION

Luca is a rising star in the world of Longboarding. Growing up in the small, coastal town of QLD’s Agnes Water, Luca’s love of the ocean was from an early age. Idolizing her older brother, Luca began surfing with him at 5. By 6, she was competing in the laid-back local board riders club, Tide n Turn and showing promise on the shortboard. By the time she was 12, Luca discovered and fell in love with the longboard. Her natural style and effortless grace quickly evolved. Luca began competing in local and Sunshine Coast competitions and was proving herself to be a worthy competitor. In 2018 she won Most Improved at the Agnes Water Festival of Surfing and just kept going from there. As the holder of the 2019 Australian Title for Under 18 Long boarder the world is literally Luca’s oyster!

Luca is a rising star in the world of Longboarding. Growing up in the small, coastal town of QLD’s Agnes Water, Luca’s love of the ocean was from an early age. Idolizing her older brother, Luca began surfing with him at 5. By 6, she was competing in the laid-back local board riders club, Tide n Turn and showing promise on the shortboard. By the time she was 12, Luca discovered and fell in love with the longboard. Her natural style and effortless grace quickly evolved. Luca began competing in local and Sunshine Coast competitions and was proving herself to be a worthy competitor. In 2018 she won Most Improved at the Agnes Water Festival of Surfing and just kept going from there. As the holder of the 2019 Australian Title for Under 18 Long boarder the world is literally Luca’s oyster!

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BEN PLAYER

WORLD CHAMPION BODY BOARDER

Ben Player is Australia’s most successful bodyboarder and one of Australia’s leading athletes in the modern era, having taken out three world titles in his career so far. Ben has been a pivotal figure in the sport of bodyboarding, alongside fellow-Aussies such as two-time world champ Damian King, Ryan Hardy, Dave Winchester and international riders Guilherme Tamega and the almighty Mike Stewart (one of bodyboarding’s founders). In addition to his wave-riding prowess, Ben founded Movement magazine back in 2004, where he acted as General Manager, Editor-In-Chief, National Ad Sales Manager, and just about anything else that fell outside of the role of Graphic Design. Ben is excited to be helping Surf Lakes to become the leading wave pool for bodyboarding around the world.

Ben Player is Australia’s most successful bodyboarder and one of Australia’s leading athletes in the modern era, having taken out three world titles in his career so far. Ben has been a pivotal figure in the sport of bodyboarding, alongside fellow-Aussies such as two-time world champ Damian King, Ryan Hardy, Dave Winchester and international riders Guilherme Tamega and the almighty Mike Stewart (one of bodyboarding’s founders). In addition to his wave-riding prowess, Ben founded Movement magazine back in 2004, where he acted as General Manager, Editor-In-Chief, National Ad Sales Manager, and just about anything else that fell outside of the role of Graphic Design. Ben is excited to be helping Surf Lakes to become the leading wave pool for bodyboarding around the world.

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MARK ‘MONO’ STEWART

WORLD ADAPTIVE CHAMPION

Mark ‘Mono’ Stewart started surfing after losing his leg to Osteosarcoma (bone cancer) in 1976. Working with Bob McTavish and George Greenough he developed a board that was modified to suit his amputation. Mono has since worked with Dave Parkes of Parkes Kneeboards to fine-tuning and perfect this technique and make boards for other surfers worldwide. In 2015 Mono won the inaugural (ISA) Adaptive Surfing Championships in California. He has since been crowned ISA world champion four times, with 2 Silver and a bronze. His last Gold was in December 2021, and after winning 17 since 2015 many of his peers and supporters refer to him as the GOAT of Adaptive Surfing. Mark has always worked in the Byron Bay surf industry spraying-artwork for likes of Mark Richards, Geoff McCoy, T&C, Munro etc. The past few years he has enjoyed working with the team at Surf Lakes on all aspects of pool accessibility, wave testing and has been a strong advocate for the sport worldwide.

Mark ‘Mono’ Stewart started surfing after losing his leg to Osteosarcoma (bone cancer) in 1976. Working with Bob McTavish and George Greenough he developed a board that was modified to suit his amputation. Mono has since worked with Dave Parkes of Parkes Kneeboards to fine-tuning and perfect this technique and make boards for other surfers worldwide. In 2015 Mono won the inaugural (ISA) Adaptive Surfing Championships in California. He has since been crowned ISA world champion four times, with 2 Silver and a bronze. His last Gold was in December 2021, and after winning 17 since 2015 many of his peers and supporters refer to him as the GOAT of Adaptive Surfing. Mark has always worked in the Byron Bay surf industry spraying-artwork for likes of Mark Richards, Geoff McCoy, T&C, Munro etc. The past few years he has enjoyed working with the team at Surf Lakes on all aspects of pool accessibility, wave testing and has been a strong advocate for the sport worldwide.

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SAM BLOOM

WORLD ADAPTIVE CHAMPION

Sam is a 3x world para surfing champion, international bestselling author, keynote speaker, wife, and mother of three, who brings a wealth of talent and inspiration to the team. Sam’s story is one of incredible trials and triumphs that eventually inspired the 2017 ABIA award-winning book Penguin Bloom. The international best-selling story was also adapted into the 2020 #1 box office hit of the same name in which Sam is played by Hollywood star Naomi Watts. Sam fits in surfs between a stacked schedule of family life, public speaking, and educating/inspiring those around her.

Sam is a 3x world para surfing champion, international bestselling author, keynote speaker, wife, and mother of three, who brings a wealth of talent and inspiration to the team. Sam’s story is one of incredible trials and triumphs that eventually inspired the 2017 ABIA award-winning book Penguin Bloom. The international best-selling story was also adapted into the 2020 #1 box office hit of the same name in which Sam is played by Hollywood star Naomi Watts. Sam fits in surfs between a stacked schedule of family life, public speaking, and educating/inspiring those around her.

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DEAN ‘DINGO’ MORRISON

WCT EVENT WINNER

Dingo spent a decade on the WCT after qualifying in 2001. During his career, he put in many memorable performances, including an event win at his home break, Snapper Rocks, where he defeated the likes of Occy, and Kelly Slater to take home the silverware. After retiring from the pro circuit, Dean chased big waves around the globe, competing in big wave events like Red Bull Cape Fear and making a name for himself in heavy water. He now coaches fellow surfers on the Gold Coast with his program, Wave of a Lifetime.

Dingo spent a decade on the WCT after qualifying in 2001. During his career, he put in many memorable performances, including an event win at his home break, Snapper Rocks, where he defeated the likes of Occy, and Kelly Slater to take home the silverware. After retiring from the pro circuit, Dean chased big waves around the globe, competing in big wave events like Red Bull Cape Fear and making a name for himself in heavy water. He now coaches fellow surfers on the Gold Coast with his program, Wave of a Lifetime.

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