Submissions open - Noosa International Surfilm Festival 2026

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Calling all surf and ocean storytellers!

Submissions are now officially open for the 2026 Noosa International Surfilm Festival (NISFF), taking place 13–16 August 2026 in Noosa, Queensland.

Now entering its next phase of growth, NISFF continues to position itself as a leading platform for surf and ocean cinema across the Asia Pacific region — celebrating powerful storytelling, cinematography, culture and environmental connection.

Festival Founder and Executive Producer Jesca Maas said the 2026 call-out invites filmmakers from across the globe to share stories that connect communities through the ocean.

“NISFF is about far more than waves — it’s about culture, environment, youth, and the deep human connection to the sea. We’re calling for films that move audiences, honour surf heritage, elevate emerging voices, and spark meaningful conversations.”

Esteemed 2026 Judging Panel Announced: Heritage Meets Progression

The 2026 festival will once again feature a highly respected and diverse judging panel drawn from across surf filmmaking, literature, media, surf champions and cultural preservation.

Judges confirmed to date include:

Dick Hoole – legendary veteran surf filmmaker and photographer

Spencer Frost – award-winning surf filmmaker
Lauren Hill – acclaimed filmmaker and storyteller, ocean culture podcaster
Dr Tim Baker – award-winning author and surf journalist
Jolyon Hoff –  multi award winning filmmaker and leader of The Surf Film Archive
Laure Mayer – surfer, ocean creative and producer
Mick Sowry – accomplished producer, writer , photographer and filmmaker
Dylan MacLeod – World Tour Longboarder and surf coach.
Peppie Simpson – Australian Longboard Champion
Tom Wegener – filmmaker, surf culture legend and sustainable surfboard craftsman

 Pacha Light – filmmaker, ocean activist and former WSL surfer

NISFF is especially proud to welcome legendary filmmaker Dick Hoole to the 2026 judging line-up. As one of Australia’s pioneering surf cinematographers, Hoole’s contribution to preserving surf history on film has shaped generations of storytellers. His presence adds enormous credibility and heritage depth to this year’s panel.

“To have someone of Dick Hoole’s stature judging at NISFF is incredibly special,” said Maas. “Our panel represents both the roots and the future of surf storytelling — from archival preservation to progressive environmental cinema.”

Submissions Now Open

Filmmakers are invited to submit surf and ocean-inspired films of all lengths and genres via FilmFreeway.

Submission details:
• Open: 1 March 2026
• Platform: FilmFreeway
• Festival Dates: 13–16 August 2026
• Information & Guidelines: nisff.com.au/submissions

Categories will include Best Feature Film, Best Mid-Length Film, Best Short Film, Best Cinematography, and additional award categories to be announced.

Selected filmmakers will have their work screened at Noosa Event Cinemas as part of a curated four-day program bringing together surfers, filmmakers, ocean advocates, industry professionals and audiences from across Australia and beyond.

GromShorts Film Fest – Submissions Open 10 April

Following the strong momentum of its launch, GromShorts Film Fest returns in 2026 as a key initiative of NISFF.

Submissions for GromShorts open 10 April 2026.

Designed for filmmakers aged 18 and under, GromShorts provides young creatives with the opportunity to see their surf or ocean short film screened on the big screen, while connecting with industry mentors and professionals.

“Investing in youth storytelling is central to NISFF’s future,” Jesca Maas said. “GromShorts gives emerging filmmakers a platform, professional encouragement, and a moment that can truly shape their creative journey.”

A Festival With Purpose

NISFF continues to build on its core pillars of Environment, Youth, Community and Culture — using the emotional power of film to foster respect for ocean and marine life, honour coastal heritage including Indigenous connection to Sea Country, and strengthen both local and global surf communities.

With increasing national and international recognition, the 2026 edition promises a thoughtfully curated program of surf documentaries, independent cinema, emerging voices and established filmmakers — all united by a shared love of ocean storytelling.

Filmmakers worldwide are encouraged to submit their work and be part of this growing movement.

Submission guidelines and full details  HERE

NEWS FROM NSFF - info@nisff.com.au