OCC Apparel
OCC Apparel was excited to attend the World Surfing Conservation Conference 2026. The event brought together inspiring voices from across surf, sustainability, and ocean advocacy — all focused on protecting our oceans and driving meaningful environmental change.
As a brand deeply connected to coastal culture and conscious production, this conference was more than an event for us — it was a reminder of why sustainability remains at the core of everything we do.
Learning from Leaders Driving Change
Day one alone delivered powerful conversations and eye-opening insights from some of the most respected voices in the industry.
We were inspired by surfing legend Layne Beachley, whose leadership and advocacy for the ocean continue to elevate conversations around responsibility within surf culture.
Sam Elsom from Sea Forest introduced attendees to SEAFEED — an innovative seaweed supplement used to address emissions reductions in livestock. It highlighted how interconnected environmental solutions are. Climate change impacts our oceans profoundly, and innovations like this show how industry-wide change can support healthier marine ecosystems.
From tackling emissions to preventing pollution, the solutions presented were practical and actionable. Ocean Protect shared their work on stopping pollution entering our waterways through advanced stormwater drain adaptations — an essential step in reducing plastic pollution before it ever reaches the ocean.
Professor Benkendorff from Southern Cross University addressed the critical issue of water pollution, reinforcing the urgent need for systemic changes in how we manage waste and protect marine biodiversity.
Community-Led Conservation
We also heard from passionate grassroots and research-driven organisations including:
- Watergum – educating us onThe Turtle Watch program in conjunction with Sea World Foundation
- Coastal engineers, researchers and planners from Gold Coast City Council
Discussions around the Palm Valley Gold Coast project, due in 2027, emphasised the importance of balancing development with environmental protection.
We were equally inspired by global and cultural perspectives — from Peruvian surf culture and history to advocacy from Surfrider Foundation and Take 3 for the Sea, whose simple but powerful message continues to mobilise communities worldwide.
The powerful stories shared by Bite Club survivors and speakers addressing sharks and ocean ecosystems reminded us that understanding the ocean requires both science and empathy. Meanwhile, conversations around gender equity in the oceans from Manta Trust highlighted the importance of inclusive environmental leadership.
Shapers like Richard from Harvey Surf spoke about sustainability within the surf industry itself — challenging brands and manufacturers to rethink materials, processes, and product longevity.
Every session circled back to one word: sustainability.
Proud to Provide the Official Event T-Shirts
OCC Apparel was honoured to provide the official event T-shirts in partnership with Vissla a surf brand whose focus is on products that are better for the environment.
As an ethical, sustainable wholesale clothing and decoration specialist, durability and responsible production are central to our approach. For us, sustainability isn’t a trend — it’s about ensuring longevity in products, partnerships, and environmental impact.
The garments featured brands aligned with our core values:
- AS Colour — built to last
- Stanley/Stella — sustainable choices with uncompromised quality
- EarthPositive — fashion for the people, the planet, and the future
We were incredibly proud for conference attendees from across the world to sample our T-shirts and share our like-minded core values. Seeing global delegates wearing garments that represent ethical production and thoughtful sourcing was a powerful moment for our team.
Moving Forward with Purpose
From learning about emissions reduction with Sea Forest’s SEAFEED supplement to exploring practical solutions for stopping pollution entering our waterways with Ocean Protect, we left the conference feeling motivated and energised.
The World Surfing Conservation Conference 2026 reinforced that meaningful change happens when industry, community, research, and advocacy unite.
At OCC Apparel, our focus on sustainability is about enduring longevity — choosing apparel that stands the test of time, reducing waste, and supporting brands and processes that prioritise environmental responsibility.
We are grateful to be part of a community working toward a healthier future for our oceans. We proudly work with Australian organisations, universities, and businesses, offering transparent AUD pricing with a standard 10% GST. Our goal is to make premium, sustainable apparel easily accessible across Australia—while keeping pricing clear, consistent, and business-friendly.
Together, through collaboration, innovation, and conscious choices, we can ensure the ocean continues to inspire generations to come.
#OceanConservation #SustainableApparel
#OCCApparel #wscc2026 #Vissla
