Tasmanian death slab Ship Stern Bluff: a wave masquerading as a staircase, or perhaps a staircase masquerading as a wave. It’s the logical steppingstone between Teahupoo and Trestles, providing a smooth transition and perfect training ground for the world tour surfer ahead of the impending Hurley Pro. Thus was the thinking behind Mick Fanning’s recent trip to Tasmania, where following a botched paddle-in attempt he took hold of the rope and veritably shone. He was joined by Mark Mathews, who saw fit to attempt a board transfer, and Brent Dorrington, who threatened to steal the show. John Wiley was the filmer at large, very large indeed.