BOTTLE BY ANDREW SHIELD

SURFER: JAY “BOTTLE” THOMPSON

LOCATION: BURLEIGH HEADS

DATE: 2010

Burleigh is a big lineup, incorporating several different sections – Sharkies, the Cove, the Point and Rock Break. Which makes a connection between a surfer and a water photographer like this even more remarkable. Burleigh is famous for its perfect barrels and lining up a surfer in the tube is a fairly predictable business. Being in the right spot and being able to frame an image when an elite surfer like Jay Thompson decides to belt the lip – a split-second moment of impact with the cresting wave – is a remarkable photographic achievement. “Burleigh is probably the best back drop for photos on the whole Gold Coast.  Hard to go past a National Park in the middle of a city!” says photographer Andrew Shield.

Bottle is one of Burleigh’s favourite sons, a former pro tour competitor, passionate Burleigh Boardriders member, elite coach and all-round good bloke. “I love shooting Bottle out at Burleigh not only because he surfs so well but also because his local status and knowledge and skill in a tricky lineup gives him a better chance than most at finding a decent wave!”