Lilliana Bowrey

Lilliana Bowrey: Surfing Prodigy and Rising Screen Star

Early Life and Cultural Roots

Born on March 26, 2005, in South East Queensland, Australia, Lilliana Bowrey grew up immersed in the coastal lifestyle of Noosa. Her parents, Jake and Alisa Bowrey, nurtured her connection to the ocean and her Indigenous heritage. Alisa, of Aboriginal descent from the Kabi Kabi tribe, instilled in Lilliana a deep respect for nature and culture, which continues to influence her personal and professional life .​

Surfing Career and Achievements

Lilliana's surfing journey began at the tender age of four, inspired by her father's passion for the sport. By eight, she was competing, and her talent quickly became evident. She is a five-time Queensland Junior Surfing Champion and has excelled in both longboard and shortboard disciplines . Her versatility and dedication have earned her recognition as one of Australia's top young surfers.​

In the World Surf League's Women's Qualifying Series, Lilliana has demonstrated her competitive prowess. During the 2023/2024 season, she achieved an average heat score of 7.93, showcasing her consistency and skill at the professional level .​

Transition to Acting: 'Surviving Summer'

Lilliana's foray into acting was serendipitous. In 2022, she auditioned for Netflix's teen drama Surviving Summer, a series seeking authentic surfers for its cast. Despite having no prior acting experience, Lilliana secured the role of Poppy Tetanui, a determined young surfer aspiring to become a world champion. Her portrayal resonated with audiences, leading to a nomination for Most Popular New Talent at the 2023 Logie Awards .​

The series ran for two seasons, with Lilliana appearing in all 18 episodes. Her performance not only showcased her acting abilities but also brought authenticity to the show's depiction of surf culture .​

Personal Interests and Advocacy

Beyond surfing and acting, Lilliana is a multifaceted individual. She enjoys playing touch football, writing songs, and playing the ukulele . Her favorite surf spot is Medewi, a sand-bottom left point break in Bali, reflecting her adventurous spirit and connection to nature.​

Lilliana is also passionate about exploring her ancestry and cultural roots. In her YouTube series "DNA Led Me Here," she delves into her heritage, connecting with traditions and communities around the world .​

Through her diverse pursuits, Lilliana Bowrey exemplifies a blend of athleticism, artistry, and cultural awareness, making her a compelling figure both in and out of the water.