Torquay Who's Who
Distinguished and Famous people from Torquay
1. Troy Brooks
Troy Brooks is an Australian artist born in Torquay, Victoria. He gained recognition for his unique style of figurative paintings that often explore themes of beauty, femininity, and desire. His works have been exhibited in numerous galleries and art fairs around the world.
2. Mark Occhilupo
Mark Occhilupo, commonly known as Occy, is a retired Australian professional surfer who was born in Torquay. He is considered one of the legends of the sport and won the ASP World Championship in 1999. Occhilupo's surfing prowess and innovative maneuvers have left an indelible mark on the sport.
3. Tyler Wright
Tyler Wright is an accomplished Australian professional surfer hailing from Torquay. She became the youngest-ever winner of a Championship Tour event at the age of 14 and has since gone on to win multiple world titles. Wright is recognized for her powerful and stylish approach to surfing.
4. Mick Fanning
Mick Fanning, born in Penrith, New South Wales, but proudly calling Torquay his home, is an Australian professional surfer. He became a household name after winning the ASP World Championship three times (2007, 2009, and 2013) and surviving a shark attack during a competition in South Africa in 2015.
5. Sally Fitzgibbons
Sally Fitzgibbons is an Australian professional surfer born in Gerroa, New South Wales, but she spent considerable time growing up in Torquay. She has achieved great success on the Championship Tour, consistently ranking among the world's top female surfers and winning multiple events.
6. Wayne Lynch
Wayne Lynch is an Australian surfer and innovator in the sport, born in Victoria and raised in Lorne, which is located near Torquay. He gained prominence in the 1970s for his revolutionary approach to surfing, incorporating radical maneuvers and seeking unexplored waves.
7. Alana Blanchard
Alana Blanchard is an American professional surfer and model who has strong ties to Torquay. Although born in Kauai, Hawaii, she spent significant time in Torquay where she honed her skills as a professional surfer. Blanchard is known for her stylish surfing and has also gained popularity through her modeling career.
8. Mark Richards
Mark Richards is an Australian former professional surfer from Sydney, New South Wales. While not originally from Torquay, he played a vital role in the region's surfing culture. Richards was a four-time ASP World Champion (1979-1982) and his competitive drive and stylish maneuvers redefine the sport.
9. Lisa Gorman
Lisa Gorman is an acclaimed Australian fashion designer who established the Gorman brand in 1999. Although born in Melbourne, she spent her childhood and early adulthood in Torquay. Gorman's unique and vibrant designs have garnered international recognition and made her a notable figure in the fashion industry.
10. Gary Ablett Sr.
Gary Ablett Sr., born in Drouin, Victoria, is a former Australian rules football player who is often regarded as one of the greatest players in the history of the sport. While he didn't grow up in Torquay, Ablett Sr. settled in the area after his football career and has remained an influential figure within the local community.