Surfing to Survive documentary screens free at Geraldton City Hive, donations for raffle prizes

A free documentary filmed around Australia’s surf coast will be screened in Geraldton this week, raising funds to cover the costs of a second film. Surfing to Survive is the story of surfer and surf coach Karin Ochsner who relied on the ocean to help her overcome severe allergies and health challenges. Ms Ochsner explains how surfing and the ocean give her the energy to deal with her challenges and bring happiness. The documentary will be screened on Thursday, May 25 at 6.30pm at the City Hive at 2 Museum Place with guests having the opportunity to ask questions in a Q&A with Ms Ochsner. The story is told by former world champion surfer Pauline Menczer and other professional surfers including Danny Wills and Ozzie Wright. The screening tour was filmed in Geraldton, Gnaraloo, Broome, Margaret River, Gerringong, Newcastle, Lennox Head and Byron Bay and has won multiple awards at film festivals. Entry is free but guests are asked to donate to participate in a raffle to win a Joel Fitzgerald surfboard and Ozzie Wright artwork. Other prizes will be drawn for each event, with prizes including surfboard tail pads and sunscreen products. The raffle will be drawn at the end of October. Fundraising will go towards a second documentary about Ms Ochsner’s healing journey giving hope and encouragement to others suffering from mental health problems. View the trailer at surfingtosurvive.com.