It could have been the summer of '69 as a convoy of Kombis descended upon the beach at the Manly Festival of Surfing yesterday. Thousands attended the event, which celebrates all aspects of surf culture. Festivalgoers watched surfing displays that featured riders on longboards, shortboards and stand-up paddleboards. Beginners could take learn-to-surf lessons, while non-surfers could choose from art exhibitions, films and music. But surfing took pride of place at the four-day festival, with more than 50 events.

The festival was attended by surfing identities including Layne Beachley, Damien Hardman, Tom Carroll, Bob McTavish and Jack McCoy. The event continues today with highlights including a celebrity surfing competition, live music performances and an after party.