You Missed It: Volcom’s Strange But Not A Stranger Party

Surf
Written By Sam Hetherington

Despite its density of young, hot people the Gold Coast is not typically known for its weekday parties of late.

We are an early rising bunch with a warm ocean to flay about in and a deficient capacity for live music, which limits the opportunity to rip in on a school night. It hasn’t always been like this here, and perhaps it is my old age, but a party for party’s sake feels more like a beautiful blimp from the past rather than something a brand, in particular a surf brand, is willing to spend their money on these days. So to get an invite to Volcom’s party at Iron & Resin last night was happily welcomed, nostalgic and also slightly fear inducing. It’s been a while, but I was ready. Mission: Resurrect Goldy’s mid week party scene with the crowd that do it best - surfers. 

I reached the party by pushbike because I am one with the trees and because dealing with getting my car in the morning before work was something I forecasted would not be enjoyable (see I have done this before). My mate Cram also joined me by peddle and we arrived sweaty but spiritually glowing. We linked up with our other pals Mildog and Toomas who looked exceptionally put together because they chose appropriate transport and they’re also just one of those couples that make each other hotter. You know the ones? Volcom’s marketing head honcho Shane Azar welcomed us like old friends and slapped some wristbands on us to signify we should absolutely enjoy the free bar tab. I immediately trusted him and got to work. 

We were treated to a first look at Noz’s latest full length movie Stimulant also featuring Shaun Manners, Kael Walsh, Russel Bierke filmed by James Kates which is set to have premieres immediately following in Byron at Crawford Gallery tonight, The Oak in Newwy on Saturday and the Servo at Port Kembla this Sunday. The Kates/Noz duo have been spitting out pure cinematic perfection for years and Stimulant follows in their already incredible catalogue. I could tell you what happens but we already know the prems are always worth the wait to see it for yourself so make sure you get down to them if you can. 

The night was soundtracked by live sets from Blistar and Goons Of Doom, bands known for their prolific surfer members and of course their sound. Naturally a shirtless man appeared on the dance floor and remained front and centre for the reminder of the night. Most surf film/ music / party nights tend to bring a crowd of pub fit individuals but this night in particular felt like a melting pot of extreme talent, both in surfing and drinking capabilities. I set myself a limit of six beers which was obviously completely ruined. Volcom has a reputation for being hogs, and this night was a fine example of that.

The highlight of the night, between the beers and catching up with all the surf lords, was of course the announcement of Jaleesa Vincent as the newest recruit on the Volcom team. I asked a young person who definitely jumped the fence to get in what he thought of the announcement. ‘Mental’ was his response. To be honest I don't think I could summarise it any better myself. Jaleesa, brought a level of unrivalled point of difference to her ex sponsor’s roster and certainly on our Team Average trip to Japan at the back end of 2023 (watch it here again if you’ve forgotten). Between choreographing her own films and launching her board brand PUSSY, Jaleesa is not someone who looks to be slowing down any time soon, and Volcom's endorsement is proof of that. A big congratulations are in order for Jel and also for Volcom in seeing the individuality of such a talent. 

The night got away like it always does and soon enough I was peddling towards home with my maccas order pre-rehearsed in my brain. With the northerlies and shark soup taking over the Goldy, it seems a fitting time to kick off the surf premiere and party season. Volcom has set the precedent. Mission accomplished. 

Sam Hetherington
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