Torren Martyn - Fathoming Sea Country

Lutruwita / Tasmania is a unique island, located off the southern edge of Australia where three oceans meet. Its coastline is shaped by powerful swells and changing weather patterns that roll in from the Southern Ocean, often making conditions unpredictable. It’s a place defined by contrast — from calm, sunlit waters in the north to the wilder, more rugged seas of the south and west.

The east coast can feel almost peaceful, with quiet beaches and gentle waves. But looking south or west, you’ll see a different side: rough seas, dramatic cliffs, and weather that can shift quickly. It’s a landscape that asks for respect — especially from those navigating it in small boats.

That’s exactly what drew surfer Torren Martyn and filmmaker Ishka Folkwell to Tasmania. Their idea was simple: explore the coastline by sea, each in an 18-foot plastic trimaran, carrying surfboards, camping gear, and a rough plan to follow the coastline propelled by wind and pedal power. 

Sailing, like surfing, demands presence. You’re moving at the mercy of the elements, reading the sky, feeling the pulse of the ocean beneath you. The rhythm of the wind, the angle of swell, the tug of current — it all speaks, and it demands us to listen. Out there, even a small mistake can carry heavy consequences.

Over several months, Torren and Ishka moved with the rhythm of the weather, letting conditions guide their journey. Progress was slow, often shaped by wind, swell, and the need to wait and watch. Along the way, they met people who shared local knowledge and offered insights into the coastline and its ecosystems. They embraced the discomfort — the cold, the unpredictability, the physical and mental demands — and in doing so, began to build a more grounded connection to the place. It wasn’t just about exploring the coastline, but about learning how to move through it with care and awareness.

Stay tuned for the future release dates of a feature film documenting the process of this adventure.