Life is Better When You Surf® - David Epper
Today, we introduce you to David Epper, a local from the Northern Beaches of Sydney.
David is one of the world’s most likeable guys. Now ‘officially’ retired from business, Dave has a number of investments, one of which is a Surf resort in the tropics.
We will let the interview tell the story of why "Life is better when you surf” for Dave.
GSI: How did you first discover Telos 101?
DE: In early 2014, after relentless pestering from my colleagues, I finally agreed to a work surf trip—on the condition it had uncrowded waves and was suitable for a middle-aged bloke on a mal. After some serious scouring, we landed on a place I’d never even heard of: Telos, North Sumatra. The resort? Telos 101.
image supplied by David Epper
GSI: What was the journey like getting there?
DE: It was a bit of a mission! We flew from Sydney to Jakarta, then onto Padang in Sumatra—about 10 hours in total. From there, we boarded what we jokingly called a “People Smuggler” boat for an overnight trip to Sipika Island. Despite the name, the trip was actually quite comfortable—plenty of laughs and a few Bintangs.
image supplied by David Epper
GSI: What were your first impressions of the resort?
DE: Just… wow. We arrived at this stunning bay with clear blue water and golden sand. The bungalows were right on the beach, and the vibe was pure paradise. You don’t forget moments like that.
GSI: What’s the surf like around Sipika Island?
DE: Incredible variety. There are about 10 spots nearby, each with its own personality. My mates had varying surf abilities, but everyone found waves to suit them. I even had a “Boss’s wave” rule—didn’t need the best wave, just the right one for me!
GSI: Was Telos 101 fully developed when you visited?
DE: Not quite. The owner, Scott, had only recently finished building the place. We were one of the first groups to visit. Over beers and chats, I floated the idea of becoming a partner. After some persistence—and a solid business plan—Scott agreed.
GSI: What changes did you help bring to the resort?
DE: We expanded west to build luxury villas and an infinity pool, added new boats for comfort, and even put in a 9-hole golf course. We also introduced yoga and meditation for guests who wanted to unwind. The sunsets on the west beach sealed the deal.
image supplied by David Epper
GSI: What kind of guests do you host at Telos 101?
DE: Everyone from pro surfers on the CT tour to all-women’s surf groups looking for a relaxed, pressure-free lineup. That’s the magic of Telos—it offers something for all skill levels without the crowds.
GSI: What’s the biggest challenge of running a surf resort in Indonesia?
DE: Plenty! Language barriers, local regulations, staffing, logistics. Our new management team, Logan and Aggy, have brought a ton of local knowledge and experience to keep things running smoothly.
GSI: What makes Telos 101 special, in your view?
DE: The balance. It’s a place where you can surf your brains out or just kick back with a book and a cocktail. The waves are world-class, the scenery is stunning, and the people—both guests and staff—bring it all together.
image supplied by David Epper
GSI: How has surfing influenced your life journey?
DE: It gave me a second chapter. After retiring in 2015, I wanted a meaningful project, and Telos 101 became that. Surfing connects you to nature, to people, and to yourself in a way few things can. Life really is better when you surf.
GSI: After checking out the Global Surf Industries range of boards, if you had to surf a two-board quiver, which boards would you choose and why?
DE: I have come to the age where it’s taking me longer to get to my feet, and it’s also not as easy to get onto the waves as it used to be. The two boards I would choose would be a carver style board like the 8’0 Critical Slide Hermit and a performance longboard like the 9’1 Golden Rule.
GSI: Our Company mantra is “Life is better when you surf®” How does that mantra resonate with you?
DE: I got my first surfboard when I was twelve, but was standing up on Cool-lites causing havoc between the flags for a couple of years before this. I love your company mantra, which for me confirms I have been very fortunate and have had a much better life thanks to surfing.
image supplied by David Epper
If you are thinking about a surf trip to a tropical island resort, Telos 101, located on a beautiful beach within the 101 islands that make up the Telos archipelago, is well worth considering.