Bombora is an Indigenous Australian term from the Eora language [1] for sea waves breaking over a shallow area such as a submerged rock shelf, reef, or sand bank that is located away from the shoreline and beach surf break. In slang, it is also called a bommie. [2]
As the wave passes over the shallow area its shape is raised and steepened, creating a localised wave formation. [3] The size and shape of bombora waves makes them attractive to surfers willing to take the risk of riding what is generally considered a hazardous pursuit.
These formations can pose a significant danger even in good weather as a bombora may not be identifiable because it may not always have breaking waves. [4]
The term bombora was given wide circulation in 2009 on ABC TV with the airing of a documentary that received a nomination for the 2010 Logie Awards in Australia. [5] [ full citation needed ] [6] [7] The documentary explored historical dimensions of the relationship between surf culture and Australian cultural identity. [8] [9]
"Bombora" is also the title of a popular music instrumental released in 1963 by Australian surf rock band The Atlantics.
The term bombora is also used for a sketchy surf spot where waves seem to break on the outside.
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