Meet your co-hosts/founders
Hi, I’m Vanessa, co-host/founder of Sea Her Rise. At 54, I fully embrace the philosophy that the best surfer is the one having the most fun—and it’s this mindset that has kept me stoked since I first started surfing 26 years ago. I was a co-founder of Surfing Mums when I first had children and then I co-founded the Byron Bay Surf Festival to bring together a community of surfers and now we are doing it with Sea Her Rise for women in midlife!
I bring a deep love for the ocean and a wide range of experience to our community, including a Silver Medallion in Surf Lifesaving, Advanced Oxygen Advantage instructor training, and qualifications as a yoga and meditation coach. I also hold a Level 1 certification in Ocean Therapy Practitioner Certification and recently completed my Wave 1 Freediving course, which beautifully complements my passion for all things ocean.
My aim is to create a space where women can feel safe, supported, and inspired to grow, heal, and have fun in the water.
Hi, I’m Sherri, your co-host/founder at Sea Her Rise. I’m 46 years young and learned to surf at 42, so I truly understand what it feels like to start surfing later in life. I know the fears, the excitement, the wobbly beginnings, and the incredible sense of achievement that comes with every small win. My goal is to create a supportive, empowering space for women —a space where you feel seen, encouraged, and confident as you progress at your own pace. I’m here to help you feel comfortable in the water, celebrate your growth, be your biggest cheerleader in the line-up and fall in love with surfing the way I did.
I’m currently qualifying to become a surf coach, surf apnea coach, am a Wave 1 Free Diver and I’m a bronze medallion surf lifesaver—so supporting women in the water is something I’m deeply committed to.
Why choose Sea Her Rise?
Sea Her Rise is a women’s surf community based in Byron Bay for women stepping into their wilder, wiser years. It’s for women who feel drawn to the ocean, want to keep surfing or return to it, and are looking for connection with other women who share similar life experiences.
Through women’s surf retreats in Byron Bay and select international destinations, along with local surf community days and ocean based gatherings, we offer supportive, small group experiences where you can surf at your own pace, move your body, build confidence in the water and feel part of something real.
Whether you’re joining us close to home or travelling further afield, Sea Her Rise is a place to come as you are, share the ocean with women who truly get it, and rise into a new chapter together
Why 35+ years?
Learning to surf with women your own age—especially 35+—creates a completely different experience in the water. You’re surrounded by women who understand the same fears, goals, body changes, and life stages you’re navigating. There’s no pressure to keep up with younger crowds, no feeling of being “behind,” and no judgement for taking things at your own pace. Instead, you get an encouraging environment where everyone is learning, cheering each other on, and progressing together.
Women 35+ often value community, safety, and confidence-building just as much as wave-catching. Being in a group of peers helps you feel more relaxed, supported, and willing to try things that might feel intimidating otherwise. The result? Faster progression, more fun, and a surfing experience that feels truly empowering rather than overwhelming.
Is Sea Her Rise right for me?
Sea Her Rise is for you if:
You’re a woman 35+ who feels drawn to the ocean and wants to keep surfing or return to it
You value connection, support and shared experience over competition
You’re happy surfing in small groups and at your own pace
You want to travel, locally or internationally, with women who understand this stage of life
You’re looking for something that feels grounding, real and nourishing rather than intense or intimidating
Sea Her Rise may not be for you if:
You’re looking for a high performance or competitive surf program
You want large groups or fast paced schedules
How we hold space
Small groups so everyone is seen and supported
Qualified local surf coaches and experienced hosts
A calm, safety first approach in and out of the water
Time built in for rest, connection and reflection
An emphasis on confidence, comfort and enjoyment rather than pushing limits
Explore upcoming retreats and community days
Byron Bay based. Internationally inspired. Always rooted in community.