The annual Byron Bay Surf Festival starts this Friday, with a launch party featuring Wolf and Cub at the Beach Hotel. The festival highlights surf art, photography, live music, films, history and literature; and includes gigs, film premieres, surf-craft workshops, markets and a swap-meet!

The Opening ceremony starts on Friday at 6.30pm – followed by the Australian premiere of Bella Vita with special guests; and Wolf and Cub playing from 9.30pm.

The excitement doesn’t stop over the weekend with the surf festival – see the Echo or the surf fest Facebook page for full info.

The Beach Hotel are throwing a closing party on Sunday featuring The Feramones, Waxhead and The Delta Riggs from 4pm; and The Byron Bay Brewery are getting in on the act with the Mojo Surf Tour after party – featuring two surfie bands – Tropical Zombies and Byron locals Single Fin – free entry, Sunday, 6pm!!

Head to the Rails this Saturday to see The Firetree – a bohemain duo whose modified drum kit, mandolin, harmaonicas, loops and percussion create the impression of a five piece band!

On Sunday we also have a screening of Cloudburst – a doco dealing with issues surrounding mental illness in the lesbian community at the Byron Community Centre, from 4pm – tickets are $15.

And last but not least! Bored tonight?? Head to the Northern to see Violent Soho – a Brissie band whose songs Muscle Junkie, Son of Sam and Jesus Stole my Girlfriend have had audiences moshing around all over Australia!

Peace out xx