In 1973 two Aussie surfers, Tony Hussien Hinde and Mark Scanlon left our shores on a search of discovery. After becoming shipwrecked what they found would ultimately define their lives forever. ‘Serendipity’ retraces the story of the late Tony Hussein Hinde and how he lived out a surfing fairytale in The Maldives during a period when there were only a handful of guys who undertook the hardcore surf trip experience.
Many of Tony’s friends and family as well as Australian surfing icons such as Bob McTavish, Albe Falzon and Wayne ‘Rabbit’ Bartholomew have contributed to the film. ‘Serendipity’ has just been accepted into the London and Hawaiian film festivals and adds to the rich culture of Australian surf films.
Filmmaker Simon Lamb shares the story behind the story with Tracks (in his words).
I remembered hearing about the famous surf break, Pasta Point, just off Chai Island. Within the first few days spent surfing Pasta Point, I met an American guy, he asked me the purpose of my trip. I told him I was looking for a story, to which he responded: “You’ve come to the right place, my friend.” He proceeded to tell me the amazing story of a man who was shipwrecked in the area in the 1970s. The man, who turned out to be Tony “Hussein” Hinde went on to discover the local surf and name all the breaks.
Shortly afterwards, I was once again out in the surf at Pasta Point. It was six foot and clean, and the smell of freshly cooked crayfish was traveling out to sea. I saw a large figure cutting up a mean wave. Approaching the guy on the board, I told him I was in search of some amazing waves and happened to mention that I was also in the process of finding my story. Shrugging his shoulders, he said, “Well, good luck my friend.” It was only later I learned that this humble guy was the legend Tony himself.
I filmed my interview with Tony, however it only went for about ten minutes and I knew it wasn’t enough. I wanted more material to work with. Walking around the island with my camera, filming various locations, I made my way back to the lookout point and the Mojo tree, where I found Tony gazing out at the surf. With the camera rolling I began asking him more questions about the boat trip and the shipwreck. This time, with Tony in his element, looking out at the waves, relaxed and just being himself, I ended up with a beautiful piece of film. I now knew I had a story. But there were a lot of other people I needed to speak to if I was going to document the whole incredible tale.
Address – 161 High St Prahran, Vic 3181
Start – 6pm Sharp
‘Serendipity’ will be screening on Thursday 28th November at venue ONESIXONE 161 High St Prahran in Melbourne. Tickets are $15 and can be purchased at OzTix or on the door.
