THE world of surf filmmaking has lost one of its most influential figures, with the passing of Jack McCoy at the age of 76.
The American-born filmmaker, whose visually rich and soulful surf documentaries helped shape the genre, died last week after a long period of ill health.
McCoy had just completed a national tour of his 2004 classic Blue Horizon, celebrating the 20th anniversary of a film that became a benchmark in surf cinema.
The tour, which introduced a new generation to his artistry, marked a fitting final chapter in a career defined by storytelling, innovation, and a deep love for the ocean.
Over the past few years Jack McCoy had spent much of his time at Way Way, between Macksville and Scotts Head.
He would often engage in conversation with surfers at Scotts Head, the younger ones not realising that they were speaking with one of the true legends of the surfing world.
Jack would also occasionally show up at the Bowraville Theatre to enjoy great live music.
Born in Los Angeles in 1948, McCoy relocated with his family to Hawaii in the 1950s, where he developed his lifelong connection with surfing.
By the time he became a regular on the Australian surfing scene he had already begun experimenting with still photography.
That passion quickly evolved into a pioneering journey in 16 mm surf filmmaking.
His early collaborations, including the landmark Tubular Swells and the groundbreaking Storm Riders, brought a fresh, immersive energy to surf movies, earning him acclaim from both core surf communities and broader audiences.
Eventually striking out on his own, McCoy went on to direct nearly 30 films over four decades, including celebrated titles such as Kong’s Island, The Performers, Occy: The Occumentary, and A Deeper Shade of Blue.
Jack McCoy leaves behind a legacy not only of films but of inspiration.
His work captured more than just waves, it captured the spirit of surfing itself.
He is survived by his family, friends, and the global surfing community who will remember him not only as a towering figure behind the lens but as a passionate voice for a culture and lifestyle he helped define.
Last weekend a group of surfers at Scotts Head paddled out and formed a circle to farewell an icon in the surfing world, a friend, and a man that made an indelible mark in the minds of everyone who grew up loving surfing in the 1970s, 80s and 90s.
By Mick BIRTLES
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