Felicity Palmateer

Felicity Tamasyn "Flick" Palmateer (born August 4, 1992) is an Australian professional big-wave surfer, artist, television personality, and commentator for the World Surf League (WSL). Raised on the coastal beaches of Western Australia, Palmateer gained widespread international recognition for conquering massive ocean swells and breaking records as one of Australia's top female big-wave surfers. Alongside her athletic endeavors, she has cultivated a career as a fine artist, media personality, and marine conservation advocate.

Early Life and Surfing Beginnings

Palmateer was born in Perth, Western Australia, and grew up near the coast in Margaret River. Encouraged by her father—an avid surfer—she began riding waves around the age of six alongside her family. At twelve years old, she entered her first organized surf competition and quickly demonstrated exceptional promise. Raised in a creative household by parents who were both involved in the arts, Palmateer was supported in simultaneously pursuing her athletic talents and artistic interests from an early age.

Professional Surfing Career

Palmateer transitioned into competitive professional surfing in her late teens, earning wins at regional events such as the Margaret River Pro Trials and the Rip Curl Gromsearch National Final. She went on to compete on the WSL Qualifying Series and made appearances on the Championship Tour. Over time, Palmateer shifted her primary focus toward big-wave surfing. In 2015, she made history by surfing a massive wave at Cowaramup Bombora (Cow Bombie) off the coast of Margaret River, setting a milestone for female Australian surfers. Her big-wave prowess earned her invitations to prestigious events such as the Pe'ahi Women's Challenge in Maui, Hawaii, and nomination honors at the WSL Big Wave Awards.

Art, Media, and Television

Beyond professional surfing, Palmateer is an accomplished artist who specializes in ocean-inspired artwork created with inks, watercolors, and intricate mandala designs. Her art has been featured on custom surfboards, original canvas prints, and creative collaborations. Palmateer expanded her public profile by competing on the reality television series Australian Survivor in both the Brains v Brawn and Heroes v Villains seasons. She also works as a WSL event commentator, podcast host, and ambassador for marine conservation initiatives.

Personal Life

Palmateer married ship captain Mitch Gimm in October 2023 in Western Australia. Deeply connected to her home region, she frequently uses her platform to advocate for ocean health, environmental protection, and charitable causes including dementia research.