The colour, characters and locations that have become synonymous with Surfest have inspired a special mural that will celebrate the 40th anniversary of the iconic event.
Supported by City of Newcastle, the 40 square metre painting is taking shape on the wall of Merewether Surf Life Saving Club thanks to Newcastle artist Mitch ‘Revs’ Resevsky.
Artist Mitch ‘Revs’ Resevsky, Cr Peta Winney-Baartz and Surfest organiser Warren Smith in front of the ‘work in progress’ mural at Merewether.The artwork features big waves being braved by a host of surfers, Merewether Ocean Baths, a surf photographer, hang gliders, local wildlife and a reference to the local Surfboard Club that calls this famous stretch home.
Sports Infrastructure Working Party Chair Cr Peta Winney-Baartz said City of Newcastle has been a proud supporter of Surfest since the beginning.
“City of Newcastle was the foundation sponsor in 1985, with Council contributing the initial funding to help create the contest,” Cr Winney-Baartz said.
“It’s fitting that Councillors voted in June 2025 to commemorate the 40th anniversary milestone by commissioning public art at Merewether Beach, the home of Surfest since 2007.
“The event has truly put Newcastle on the map in terms of destination awareness and repeat tourism, making good on its promise to help our city evolve from its industrial roots and promote its beaches to a new audience.
“City of Newcastle’s support over the years has helped Surfest become the largest surfing festival in the southern hemisphere, championing both men’s and women’s events, junior competitions and the Indigenous Classic.”
Mitch ‘Revs’ Resevsky said he wanted to create a vibrant piece that reflected the fun and excitement of Surfest.
“It features all walks of life doing their thing, surfing, having fun, walking dogs, playing on the rocks, doing family activities,” Mr Revs said.
“Everyone who comes to Newcastle has wonderful things to say about the community and the people here and I think that’s reflected in the mural.
“I’m looking forward to painting the mural and I really hope the community enjoys it.
“I take my hat off to Warren Smith. He’s been doing this for a long time now and he’s definitely done Newcastle proud with this event.”
Organiser Warren Smith said the mural is part of a four-month festival celebrating 40 years of Surfest.
“We’ve got more than 800 male and female competitors from across the globe competing across nine events throughout February and March,” Mr Smith said.
“The celebrations will culminate with the final stop of the World Surf League’s Challenger Series at Merewether from March 9-15.”