This episode is brought to you by Official Beer Co.
Produced by Podfire.

In Episode 37 of Tappa’s Green Room, Tappa sits down with one of the most influential figures in Australian surfing history — Robert “Bushy” Mitchell. From growing up on a rural farm near the Victorian–NSW border to discovering surfing at Moffat Beach, Bushy’s journey mirrors the grassroots evolution of competitive surfing in Australia. As long-time President of Surfing Queensland, former CEO, and Surfing Australia’s first Chair, Bushy almost single-handedly carried the sport through its formative decades. This episode dives deep into untold stories from the 1970s through the 1990s, the long road trips, the volunteer grind, iconic surfers, early big-wave safety, and the people who shaped the sport. A masterclass in leadership, service, and passion — and a must-listen for anyone who loves surfing beyond the lineup.

In Episode 36 of Tappa’s Green Room, Terry “Tappa” Teece sits down with Australian surfing legend Paul Neilsen for a deep dive into the formative years of professional surfing on the Gold Coast and beyond. From growing up in a near-empty Surfers Paradise and borrowing boards as a kid, to charging Hawaiian waves, winning Bells Beach in 1971, and taking out the prestigious Smirnoff Pro-Am, Paul reflects on an era before leg ropes, sponsorship hype, and crowded line-ups. The conversation also explores the rise of Brothers Neilsen Surfboards, the shaping bays of Mermaid Beach, and what it meant to be part of surfing’s first true professional generation—driven by passion, community, and fearless commitment.

Episode Sponsored by Official Beer Co.
Produced by Podfire.

This episode is brought to you by Official Beer Co.
Produced by Podfire.

In Episode 35 of Tappa’s Green Room, Tappa sits down with Burleigh Heads standout and World Tour campaigner Liam O’Brien for an honest, wide-ranging chat about the realities of professional surfing. From growing up surfing raw Victorian coastlines to becoming a Burleigh Boardriders mainstay, Liam reflects on how his early years shaped his style, mindset, and respect for the lineup. The conversation dives deep into the ups and downs of the Challenger Series, his breakthrough moments on tour, the brutal ankle injury at Pipe, and the long road back to confidence and form. It’s a raw look at resilience, humility, and what it really takes to stay in the game at the highest level.