The following interview was conducted by Mark 'Stork' Thompson, who also took the accompanying photos.

Who is Scott Dennis? I'm a 26-year old, part time carpenter who lives on the NSW South Coast.

Influences? Older brothers and friends.

What about bodyboarders? Nar, not at all! Ha ha...just kidding. Some of my closest mates are bodyboarders and they are the ones chasing the heavy slabs so it's good to hang out with them. It gives me a chance to stay away from the sticks and get away from the scene. As much as I don't like saying it, but bodyboarders are the ones finding the new slabs so cruising with them has its benefits.

Competition? Pro juniors, South Coast Challenges, boardriders and The Pines Circuit.

How'd you go? Terrible.

Growing up on the South Coast? It's allowed me to ride some of the heaviest waves on the east coast. That's probably why my competition surfing has lacked in the past. I've just been more inclined to chase heavier waves and that's what I enjoy the most.

Professional freesurfer vs professional heat surfer? It's definitely harder. We are putting ourselves in more dangerous positions then the competition scene. We've also got to rely on photographers and filmers to capture what we do to promote us as well. It can get frustrating having to rely on people. There's been surfs where I'm sure I could have had more spreads in mags but there's just been no one there the capture it.

Generally, my career relies on others to make it happen.

Sponsors? My major sponsor is Carve, and I'm also supported by Balin, Southern Man Surf Shop, Vern Jackson Surfboards and Crows Feet Shoes.

Are photo incentives justified in 15 foot surf? Yeah, its something I'll have to bring up with my sponsors because I can't see photographers getting close enough while the surf is 10-15 feet, to get a shot of one of my logos. That can get a little frustrating, but the owner of Carve is pretty understanding and I'm sure there'll be better photo incentives if I pull my weight.

Final words? I want to keep pushing myself, as I have been, but to a greater scale. I'd like to stay in Australia and chase the heavy slabs we have here, whilst being available for any swell overseas. Next year I'd like to get some of the craziest waves of my life.

Cheers! Whip...