When Worlds Collided

A short film showcasing the scenes at the 1970 World Surfing Championships.

Light / Dark

In TSJ 29.2’s “When Worlds Collided,” writer Phil Jarratt traces culture shifts, legal trouble, and mischief that occurred when the era’s open-minded top surfers descended upon the then-conservative Australian state of Victoria for the 1970 World Championships, held at Bells Beach and Johanna. 

Featuring Nat Young, Gerry Lopez, Michael Peterson, Reno Abellira, Rolf Aurness, and others, the short clip presented here is a collection of footage from Tim Burstall’s 1971 documentary of the event, titled Getting Back To Nothing, narrated by Jarratt in excerpts from his feature.

For the fully detailed report of the events surrounding the contest, and its effect on both surfing and wider culture, pick up a copy of the mag.