The Swell Sessions returns to Torquay Surf Life Saving Club across three massive shows in 2026.
Forget trudging to some inner-city warehouse when you could catch six bands and DJs with sand between your toes and the Surf Coast breeze in your hair.
The Swell Sessions is back at Torquay Surf Life Saving Club, and this year’s trio of events is stacked with some of Australia’s finest rock, punk and indie talent – all while raising funds for the surf lifesavers who keep the coastline safe.
Running across three dates from February through April, The Swell Sessions positions itself as equal parts community celebration and ripping live music showcase. The series kicks off with an official afterparty for the West Coast Wax Up surfing event, ramps things up with a heavy-hitting punk bill in March, then closes out with the feel-good vibes of The Terrys in April. Each event runs from afternoon into the evening, meaning you can catch a sunset between sets and keep the party rolling well into the night.
The whole thing operates as a fundraiser for Torquay SLSC – one of the Surf Coast’s most iconic institutions, established way back in 1945. Beyond the music, these events celebrate the coastal lifestyle that defines Torquay, bringing together breweries, local businesses and the broader community for what the organisers are calling mini-festivals with heart.
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The Swell Sessions – February (West Coast Wax Up Afterparty)
- 7 February
- Torquay Surf Life Saving Club
- Tickets here
The opening instalment doubles as the official afterparty for the West Coast Wax Up, and the lineup reflects that surf-drenched energy. Melbourne favourites Floodlights are bringing their sun-bleached psych-rock to the coastal venue, while Canadian outfit Surf Hat make the trip down under with their own take on psych-surf sounds. Local acts Bones & Jones, Savage Honey and OH! Daisy round out the bill, ensuring a solid mix of familiar faces and fresh discoveries. Live DJs will keep things moving between sets, plus there are giveaways scattered throughout the evening for good measure.
The Swell Sessions – March
- 14 March
- Torquay Surf Life Saving Club
- Tickets here
March sees The Swell Sessions take a decidedly heavier turn. Sydney’s C.O.F.F.I.N have built a reputation as one of the most ferocious live acts in the country, delivering blistering punk and rock with an intensity that’s been honed over nearly two decades of relentless touring. They’re joined by Mini Skirt, whose sharp-witted pub-punk has earned them a dedicated following across the local scene.
Veteran trio The Vasco Era add their blues-influenced indie rock to the proceedings – these lot have been kicking around since the mid-2000s and still bring serious energy to every performance. Melbourne’s Public Figures channel post-punk urgency and hook-driven swagger, recently supporting Amyl & The Sniffers at Fed Square. Geelong’s Special Guest bring their own spin on post-punk, while Torquay locals Inked Factor and Strange Unit ensure the hometown is well represented. Live DJs keep the energy flowing throughout.
The Swell Sessions – April (Season Finale)
- 11 April
- Torquay Surf Life Saving Club
- Tickets here
The Terrys bring the curtain down on the 2026 Swell Sessions series with what promises to be a proper send-off. The Gerringong five-piece have built a devoted fanbase (affectionately known as Terrydactyls) on the back of their infectious indie-rock anthems and famously energetic live shows. Fresh off a sold-out national tour, the band’s feel-good approach to performance makes them a natural fit for The Swell Sessions’ beachfront celebration.
Support comes from some seriously impressive talent. The Beefs have carved out their own niche in the Australian pub-rock landscape, blending pop hooks with rock grit and a distinctly Australian sense of humour – their track Red Bellied Black Snake alone has racked up millions of streams. Tasmanian-born, London-sharpened four-piece Holiday Mystics arrive with their blend of indie rock, mystic pop and dual vocals, while Krystal Rivvers bring psych-rock and soul influences from their base in Sydney, led by Wurundjeri/Boon Wurrung singer-songwriter Earl Weir.
Bellarine Peninsula outfit Blondehouse round out the bill with their grunge and alt-rock energy. The three-piece have quickly built a reputation for raw, honest songwriting and infectious live performances since establishing themselves in Melbourne’s scene. Live DJs will keep things moving across the afternoon and evening.
All three events acknowledge the Wadawarrung people as the traditional custodians of the land on which The Swell Sessions takes place. Tickets are available through Humanitix, with 100 per cent of booking fee profits going to charity.
For more information, head here.
This article was made in partnership with Torquay Life Saving Club.
