Smorgasboarder_12_July-2012

WINTER, SHMINTER... THERE’S PLENTY OF SUNSHINE IN THE WORLD 

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DETAILS & STUFF 

WHERE TO PICK SMORGASBOARDER UP 

Grab it FREE at quality surf stores, shapers and cool cafes on the coast of 

Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia and Tasmania. 

For a full list, see the directory in the back of the mag or just get to 

your local surf shop and ask for it. If you see a local store advertising, 

please support them! They’ll have the lion’s share of mags in your area. 

smorgasboarder is published six times a year. 

CAN’T GET THERE? SUBSCRIBE 

If you can’t get to a store, have smorgasboarder delivered to 

your door. The mag’s still free, but Australia Post need to get paid. 

$21 IN AUSTRALIA GETS YOU SIX EDITIONS. 

Sign up at www.smorgasboarder.com.au. It’ll arrive 

every two months. Back issues are available for $5 per copy. 

THE COVER SHOT 

Travelling surf writer Matt Rott lives in Micronesia. This 

photo not only shows off the quality of his home breaks, 

but also embodies the spirit of fun that surfing is all about. 

Have fun, have a surf and enjoy this ‘global’ edition! 

BOYS & GIRLS OF SMORGASBOARDER 

LOTS OF STUFF & ADVERTISING 

Dave Swan dave@smorgasboarder.com.au 

0401 345 201 

NEW ZEALAND STUFF 

‘Jiff’ Morris jeff@smorgasboarder.co.nz 

+64 (0)220 943 913 

LOTS OF STUFF & DESIGN 

Mark Chapman mark@smorgasboarder.com.au 

0400 875 884 

SOUTH AUSTRALIAN STUFF 

James Ellis james@smorgasboarder.com.au 

0410 175 552 

STUFF, ACCOUNTS & EVERYTHING ELSE 

Louise Gough advertising@smorgasboarder.com.au 

PHOTO STUFF 

Ben Vos 

benv@smorgasboarder.com.au 

MORE DESIGN STUFF: Dean Slockee & Gus Brown 

PROOFING, TEST STUFF & STUNTS: Gus Brown 

CONTRIBUTORS 

This is your mag. Tell us your stories, send us your pics, let us know your 

thoughts... Ideas & submissions: editorial@smorgasboarder.com.au 

WWW.SMORGASBOARDER.COM.AU 

smorgasboarder is published by Huge C Media Pty Ltd 

ABN 30944673055. All information is correct at time of going to press. 

The publishers cannot accept responsibility for errors in articles or 

advertisements, or unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or illustrations. 

The opinions and words of the authors do not necessarily represent those 

of the publisher. All rights reserved. Reproduction in part or whole is strictly 

prohibited without prior permission. 

We print with Pep Central 

and Craft Inprint Group, an 

environmentally aware and 

committed printer whose business 

is founded upon the principles of 

minimising waste and maximising 

recycling. Nice work. 


Since 1971 

“is what surfing is all about” 

www.goodtime.com.au 

WETSUITS! 

We reckon we have the cheapest 

wetsuits in the world. Get the 

right fit, get yours at Goodtime. 

Stocking Rip Curl, O’Neill, 

West, Excel, Roxy, Quicksilver, 

Billabong, Peak 

SKATE SHOES! 

The gremlins are telling us our 

Vans and DC skate shoes are the 

cheapest in the world... So get 

them at Goodtime. 

TAKE A VIRTUAL TOUR OF 

THE SHOP WITH OUR ONLINE 

VIDEO WALK-THROUGH 

Goodtime Surf & Sail 

29 Ipswich Road, Woolloongabba, Brisbane 

07 3391 8588 

FIND US ON FACEBOOK! 

Photo courtesy 

of Dick Hoole


Peru. Waves you haven’t surfed yet. 

Photo: Peru Aventura 

GET PACKING 

We all dream of doing it. Some of us only get to do it once a year. Some 

lucky ones seem to be doing it all the time. Some even do it for a living. 

Some get to do it in some pretty weird and wonderful places. Some just 

love doing it in the same place over and over again while others are 

constantly after a brand new venue to heighten the thrill. 

Travel is that ever-present idea - an insatiable craving for so many. And 

lets face it: whatever your preference, whatever your schedule, as a 

surfer you WILL travel. Whether it’s to a far flung tropical paradise, to 

icy cold foreign waters as a change from home, or simply down the 

coast to your favourite secret spot for a weekend away - it’s all part 

of the same drive to get away, with surfboard under arm to immerse 

yourself in the energy of a different wave. 

It’s with that thought in mind that we’ve brought together a collection 

of surf-trip stories to warm you through the next two months of 

winter. We’ve got top-shelf tropical travel tales from the best surf tour 

operators in the business, interviews with everyday travellers, right 

through to personal stories of readers’ trips to weird and wonderful 

spots you might not think of for surfing. There’s even stories from people 

in different countries, showing us despite geographical boundaries 

and cultural quirks, just how similar we really all are when it comes to 

pursuit of this passion that is surfing. 

It’s real stories like the ones in this edition that keep us amazed, 

excited and motivated to get out there too. So when your teeth are still 

chattering from your freezing morning carpark change, we hope that 

these pages of (mostly) warm waves, boardies and bikinis will help get 

that blood pumping, keep you excited to catch more waves and get you 

through the next winter months with all the reading you need! 

Enjoy! 

jul/aug 2012 

9

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20 

STORM SURFERS 

Find out what happened 

behind the scenes of this 

3D big wave experience. 

INSIDE THIS ISSUE 

TRAVEL 

Hitch a ride on a trip around 

the globe, from tropical 

perfection to icy torture. 

30 THE MALDIVES 

44 CAROLINE ISLANDS 

51 BALI STAY 

52 FIJI 

58 NEW CALEDONIA 

66 PAPUA NEW GUINEA 

76 ROTE ISLAND 

78 PERU 

80 WEST SUMATRA 

82 BRUNEI 

85 MORE MALDIVES 

88 HOLLAND 

90 LAKE MICHIGAN 

Power Base Fins & Boxes - Completely Integrated 

NEW CALEDONIA 

One of the fantastic 

destinations in our 

travel-packed issue. 

58 

STEVO 

Dunedin’s 

big-wave 

lensman 

talks about 

his life and 

love. 

92 

THE USUAL BITS 

THE LATEST 

12 Reader Photos 

14 News & Community 

16 Travel essentials 

GEAR 

104 Boards, boards, boards 

111 Skate 

113 Test everything 

CLOSEOUT 

115 Business 

118 Columns 

122 Directories 

128 Relax 

130 Aloha Barry 

MORE POWER 

MORE CONTROL 

OWEN WRIGHT 

Chooses DXL CERAMIC C4 with Power Base Boxes 

www.powerbasefins.com.au 

02 4323 4818

READERS’ PICS 

Enjoy the postcard 

moments in this tasty 

Mentawai image 

Victorian snapper 

Hayden O’Neill scores 

himself a copy of the 

SEWN NZ longboarding 

movie on DVD 

NEXT EDITION: 

Get your photo printed here and 

win yourself a Loud Life t-shirt! 

Send submission and photos to 

letters@smorgasboarder.com.au 

loudlifeindustries.tumblr.com 

12 jul/aug 2012


13

SURFWAREAUSTRALIA 

SUNSHINE COAST SUPERSTORE 

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BRAND NEW 

MINI-MALS 

TRADE UP 

YOUR WETTIE! 

Trade in your old wetsuit for a 

new one! Receive a 250ml bottle 

of wetsuit wash free with every 

new wetsuit sold. 

SPECIALS: Wetsuit wash for 

$7.95, wetsuit buckets for $24 

and wet-dry bags for $24. 

2 Bulcock Street, Caloundra QLD 4551 

Tel (07) 5491 3620 

Open Mon to Sat, 9am to 5pm and Sun 9am to 4pm. Closed Christmas Day 

SURFWAREAUSTRALIA.COM 

THIS IS THE 

NEWS 

WHAT’S HAPPENING AROUND OUR SIDE OF THE COAST 

editorial@smorgasboarder.com.au 

SURFAID APPEAL 

Surfaid has put out the call for 

funding needed to supply water 

facilities in the Mentawais. 

The past year saw the organisation 

roll out recovery after the 2010 

tsunami. They’ve now moved into 

long-term recovery for affected 

communities with a new program 

called SeSe, which means 

‘appropriate’ in Mentawai language. 

It costs on average $100 to provide 

a sustainable fresh water supply to 

one family. Money raised will go 

towards gravity-fed tanks, wells, 

filtered spring water collection and 

rainwater harvesting systems. 

All donations are tax deductible. 

To get involved, visit surfaid.org and 

feel free to join Surfaid on Facebook, 

Twitter and Instagram for regular 

news on programs and events. 

FREE BOARDS FOR 

BROKEN ONES 

The ever-busy Peter Neely of Indo 

Surf & Lingo has been doing travel 

insurance for some time now, but 

has recently stepped up the options 

and coverage for surfers. He’s now 

organised cover for any damage to 

surfboards - even while surfing - and 

unlimited medical and evacuation 

costs from anywhere overseas. 

There’s also an option for travel 

within Australia, so if you plan to 

catch a cyclone swell, and if you 

snap your board, you get one free... 

Well, the cash to order one from 

your favourite local shaper anyway! 

You’re looking at from $700 to 

$1,000 for the international trips, 

and $500 for Australian trips. Peter 

tells us you can even get cover of up 

to $6,000 for more expensive custom 

boards, SUPs and the like. 

For more information, see the full 

details are on the Indo Surf website: 

www.indosurf.com.au/insurance.php 

facebook.com/smorgasboarder 

THE PLACE TO MEET 

The Sandy Feet Surf Swap is on 

again, 19 August in Port Macquarie. 

The swap meet will be smack-bang 

in the middle of the Australian 

Surf Festival on the day after the 

Australian Longboard Titles final. 

If you missed last year’s it was a 

cracker. Check out Thomas Brown’s 

footage to see what it is all about at 

http://vimeo.com/28081483 

No entry fee. Anyone can just come 

along and buy/sell/swap any used 

surfboards. There will also possibly 

be some live music and some other 

interesting stalls. 

CUTTING EDGE 

twitter.com/smorgasboarder 

One of our favourite shapers, 

Thomas Bexon of Thomas Surfboards 

and his mate and right hand man 

Jake Bowrey have teamed up with 

Malakai Mitchell to create a barber 

shop/clothing store/surfboards/ 

lifestyle products/hang-out space 

with a skate halfpipe called Captain 

Sip Sop’s Barber Shop & Outfitters 

on Noosa Eumundi Rd, right beside 

Thomas Surfboards. Congrats and 

go easy on those pompadours fellas. 

captainsipsop.tumblr.com 

CLARK RELOCATES 

South Australian board workshop 

the Ding King and Clark Surfboards 

has moved and has a new location 

at Units 7 and 8 of 9 Chapman Road 

in Hackham, SA. Drop in your boards 

with dings or talk with Leighton 

about custom orders 9-5, Monday to 

Friday. Call 0422 443 789 for info. 

DON’T SHELL OUT! 

On the subject of not paying up, 

Ocean Addicts in Maroochydore are 

offering easy finance on their gear, 

so rather than part with your hardearned 

cash straight up, you can 

spread costs of gear, lessons and 

more across a few months. 

www.oceanaddicts.com.au 

GOT NEWS? 

Send it in. Upcoming events, charity 

happenings, interesting stories, email to: 

editorial@smorgasboarder.com.au 


Tom Wegener,, stoked at 

the Byron Surf Festival 2011 

BYRON GETS SET TO CELEBRATE 

From all accounts the Byron Surf Festival appears to have set a benchmark 

for other surf festivals to follow. Last year’s inaugural celebration was a huge 

success with surfing legends such as Dick Hoole, George Greenough, Alby 

Falzon, Taylor Steele, Tom Wegener, Andrew Kidman, Neal Purchase Jnr, Rusty 

Miller, Danny Wills, Mick Waters and the like attending and contributing to 

what was considered by many to be one very special festival. 

It’s on again this year from Friday 26-28 October and is shaping up to be even 

better. This three-day fusion of community focused events highlight the creative 

culture within surfing including surf-art, music, film, photography, surf markets, 

workshops, surf history display, kids stART me up events, surf swap meet, 

freestyle&stoke expression session, surf demo’s, mermaids, charities... 

There will be a number of ‘Surf Culture Now’ events being hosted all around 

beautiful Byron town and it’s beaches with the Opening Ceremony Friday 26th 

Oct being held at the Byron Bay Brewery & Buddha Bar, which is shaping up to 

be a night not to be missed. 

This year there will be other additions to the festivities including beach debris 

art creations, more surf legends and environmental kids projects as well as a 

‘Surf Shorts’ short film competition where budding surf film makers get a chance 

to present their 7min short films to a esteemed panel of judges. 

For the winner and runner-ups there are some amazing prizes up for grabs, 

including a film mentorship from a renowned surf filmmaker and a screening 

at the 2013 Byron Bay International Film Festival and all final 5 entrants will be 

shown on the Saturday night 27th Oct at the Byron Community Centre before the 

Taylor Steele film premier ‘This Time Tomorrow.‘ 

For more information see the website: www.byronbaysurffestival.com 

The legendary 

Radiator vest - 

essential 

waterwear 

Perfect on its own or as extra warmth 

under conventional wetsuits. 

Since its launch the Radiator vest has become standard 

equipment for surfers, whether on its own or under a 

convential wetsuit, our four revolutionary layers make it 

the thinnest, most flexible suit on the market. 

All our products are backed by our legendary quality, 

no questions asked returns policy and just the best 

product from the guys who make them. View the full 

range of lightweight waterwear and accessories online. 

CORRECTION! 

A huge apology to Vicco 

photographer Hugh Webb, who 

missed out on the accolades for 

this fine photo in the last edition. 

Sorry about that Hugh! We hope 

a copy of SEWN NZ Longboarding 

DVD will make it a little better. 

available direct online only 

www.radiator.net 


15

RSF members showing the 

young’uns how it’s done in the 

Mentawais. Photos: Supplied RSF 

LATEST: COMMUNITY 

NO WORK, JUST WAVES 

The dream of surfing all day without 

worrying about getting back to work is 

a reality for the retiree. 

Being a permanent surf bum is the 

core idea behind the Retired Surfers 

Fraternity - a new organisation pulled 

together by a group of surfers from 

Shelly Beach on the Central Coast of 

NSW. A fraternity of local retirees, the 

Shelly Beach Chapter, proved to be very 

popular at their local beach, gathering 

in the morning to check the breaks, 

surfing, having a chat in the water, 

enjoying a coffee while telling some 

stories and generally having a good 

time away from the workforce. 

At beaches around Australia and 

worldwide, groups of retirees are 

experiencing the same relaxed and 

enjoyable lifestyle and a Point Plomer 

chapter recently joined the fun. 

The aim is to have other surfing retirees 

join the fraternity as their own chapter 

(beach) and expand the idea worldwide 

so when travelling on the endless 

search for waves and spotting a 

Retired Surfers Fraternity member, an 

instant association is formed. 

For any budding surf bum retirees keen 

to get involved, check out the website 

for more information: 

www.retiredsurfersfraternity.com 

SCHOOL IS IN... 

Nick Wright is a TAFE instructor in 

cabinetmaking who found inspiration 

in the recent Shaper’s Apprentice 

design submissions and came up with 

a great novelty design himself. This 

unique craft is 8’ x 22 ½” x 3”, has 

an extended tail rocker for leverage 

in turns, a viewing hole through the 

board’s centre, fins made from a 

kitchen chopping board and, for no real 

reason, a solar-powered LED light. 

“I rode the board in rubbish surf so the 

jury is still out regarding the wide tail 

and odd tail shape for turns,” he says. 

Regardless, with this out-there design, 

Nick shows that cabinetmaking is more 

than white box construction, but can 

be individual and fun. His eventual goal 

is to incorporate the making of a board 

into the cabinetmaking curriculum as 

an elective. Fingers crossed for Nick. 

WHEN BEING CRAP IS COOL 

By the time you hold this mag 

in your hands, the Third World 

Championships of Crap Surfing 

(WCCS III) will have graced Praa 

Sands in the UK with general 

awesomeness and dazzling displays 

of surfing prowess. 

Examples of said prowess include 

the magic moment shown above as 

Julian Burns performs his signiture 

move, yet to be achieved by any noncrap 

surfer, ‘The J.B Rear Dismount’. 

We wait with baited breath for the 

results of the crowning of the King 

and Queen of Crap Surfing - and 

possibly a Duke or Duchess. Look out 

in the next edition for full coverage 

of this milestone in surfing history. 

www.crapsurfer.com 

Photo: Supplied 


What’s this 

aflexbtailo 

othing about? 

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STOCKING QUALITY SURFBOARDS BY 

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surf art • shells • driftwood things • chenille shorts 

beach stuff • retro sunnies • thongs • stripy towels 

umbrellas • hammocks • GoPro cameras 

Demo 

available 

in store 


17

BE WELL 

PREPARED 

You’re finally on the surf trip of your life. The 

last thing you need is to wind up curled in 

the foetal position in bed while your partner 

or all your mates are out surfing. 

The Saltwater First Aid Kit is specifically designed to fix you, or 

at least stick you back together again so you can get straight 

back in the water. It also comes with a handbook with step-bystep 

instructions showing you what to do if you find yourself in a 

dodgy situation. 

So whether you have stepped on one of those little pricks (sea 

urchins), been stung by some tentacled beast, chomped by a large 

fish with teeth, had a heart attack as a result, cut yourself on some 

coral or eaten something you shouldn’t have, the Saltwater First 

Aid Kit for Surfers will come to the rescue. 

And it ain’t no regular first aid kit. Sure it may have the regulars 

like gauze bandages and the like, but it also has a range of stuff 

not found in a normal kit - things like waterproof dressings and 

tape, gastro stop, Lucus papaw ointment, hydrogen peroxide and 

Panadol, all in a water resistant, padded bag. 

When you’re surfing in any location, albeit a remote or tropical 

destination, the risk of infection is significantly increased and 

the smallest of cuts can easily turn into something horrendous 

overnight. To prevent infection and, more importantly, to keep 

you surfing, it’s important that all cuts, grazes and scratches are 

sterilized and covered. 

This little kit is a must for any surfer, especially those travelling 

overseas or to particularly remote locations. 

The Saltwater First Aid Kit 

for Surfers is available for 

only $69.95. 

Buy your own online at 

www.saltwaterfirstaid.com 


DOUBLE BAG IT, PLEASE 

A great lightweight cover for carrying two boards. 10mm protective foam 

gusset and 5mm waterproof padding with external tightening straps. 

Perfect for transporting your quiver to the nearest surf break. If taking 

your boards on a plane, go the heavier 20mm cover for added protection. 

The Double Compact Fish 7’2” 

board bag from 

Ocean & Earth 

retails for 

$219.95 - www.oceanearth.com 

GOOD 

COOKIN’ 

What a cool little BBQ! 

This little multi-finctional 

Safari Chef by Cadac is 

as compact as it is clever. 

LATEST: & GREATEST 

TRIPLE STINGER 

If a bee and a wasp had a fight, we reckon the wasp would win. Why? Because 

the bee only gets one hit. The wasp gets multiple stings... See the setup? Like 

the combo of bags? Multiple stings? Okay, while that is possibly the worst intro 

ever done, it’s for seriously cool bags that we love and use all the time ourselves. 

WASP are offering the complete range of waterproof bags as a combo deal to 

keep your gear dry and save you some dollars.That’s a Mega WASP, a King 

WASP and a Baby WASP for $99.99. BUT WAIT! Use the discount code 

SMORGASBOARDER and you save an extra $10! That’s right, just $89.99! 

www.waspbags.com.au/products/complete-combo-deal 

They call it the “pickup-and-go-anywhere, 

anytime outdoor kitchen” 

and they’re not wrong. 

Grill fish, BBQ snags, 

roast a leg of lamb, flip 

some pancakes or whip 

up a stir-fry - there’s 

everything you need for it 

in one compact bag that 

weighs less than 5kg. 

Perfect for day trips and 

small enough to just keep 

in the trunk of your car for 

those BBQ emergencies. 

And for only $169, you 

really can’t go wrong. 

For more information, see 

www.cadacbbq.com.au 

LOUD 

AND 

PROUD 

Something that gets us excited 

is new people trying new 

things. Loud Life is one such 

new thing, so we’re excited! 

RRP $44.95 

DRIP DRY 

Clip’n Drip Glove and Boot 

Hangers from Seventh Wave 

Wetsuits- $25 NZD (approx. 

$20 AUD) are a great idea 

for getting your gear dry 

quicker. Who wants wet 

boots anyway? 

www.seventhwave.co.nz 

Roasting lid, or wok - you decide 

Flat, or flip for ribbed griddle 

Fat-free grilling on the BBQ 

Stove top for pots and kettles 

A clothing venture kicked off 

by two young Sunshine Coast 

entrepeneurs - artist Jamie 

Edwards and surfer Gus Murray 

- Loud Life is all about chasing 

your dreams and living every 

day to the full. Great gear with a 

good sentiments behind it. Join 

the boys on www.facebook.com/ 

LoudLifeIndustries. 

Following our wetsuit tests 

last edition, we were given 

the world’s smallest wetsuit 

by our mates at Ocean 

Addicts in Maroochydore. It’s 

only 0.6mm thick! We haven’t 

got to test it yet though... 

Uses 500g gas cartridge 

Legs fold away for storage 


19

Ross Clarke-Jones captures world-first 3D footage from inside an 18-foot 

barrel at Shipsterns Bluff, south-eastern Tasmania. Photo: Andrew Chisholm 


THE 

EYE 

BEHIND THE 

STORM 

LATEST: INTERVIEW 

Have you ever wondered what it would really 

be like to charge down the face of a monster 

wave? Not just a big wave - a humongous 

wave. To experience that initial drop, hurtling 

down the face at 100 miles an hour, the rush 

of adrenalin, even the wipeout? 

Soon you will be able to endure the death 

defying without risk of life or limb, or even 

getting wet. Storm Surfers 3D takes the 

audience along for a ride, in, under and over 

the kind of waves most mere mortals would 

never even contemplate surfing. 

INTERVIEW: DAVE SWAN, PHOTOS: SUPPLIED 


21

For those unfamiliar with the Storm Surfers concept, it’s a 

reality series developed for the Discovery Channel which 

follows the exploits of two-time world champion surfer 

Tom Carroll, big-wave hellman Ross Clarke-Jones and 

meteorologist and expert surf forecaster Ben Matson in 

the pursuit of gigantic storm swells around the world. Six 

years on from when the original show was aired, a feature 

length film - in 3D - has recently been completed. 

Storm Surfers 3D takes us on a journey to Shipstern’s 

Bluff in Tasmania, Cape Solander south of Sydney, Hawaii 

and a never been surfed break seventy-five kilometres off 

the coast of Western Australia. The stars of the show 

need no introduction - their feats are well documented 

in surf magazines, newspapers and the like, but what 

really grabbed our interest was an opportunity to talk with 

the men behind the film and the actual making of what 

appears to be the world’s first 3D surf film. 

We were lucky enough to have a chat with Justin 

McMillan, co-director of Storm Surfers 3D, who is the 

nutcase directing from onboard a jetski, out in the water, 

whilst his other partner in crime, co-director Chris Nelius 

steers proceedings from a helicopter overhead, or from 

one of the boats. 

DAVE: So am I right in saying, this is the world’s first 

3D surf film? 

JUSTIN: There has been a 3D production before called 

Ultimate Wave, with Kelly Slater, but it was developed 

for Giant Screen Imax theatres, not for normal cinema 

screens. 

We wanted the film to be accessible to a larger audience 

and to provide an honest account of what Tom and 

Ross actually experience when they are tackling these 

monstrous waves. For viewers to be totally immersed in 

what takes place. 

DAVE: Was it your first time filming in 3D? 

JUSTIN: It was and it really was a steep learning curve. 

It took me a while to grasp the concept - learning the 

parameters of 3D and what you can and can’t do. Visually 

it was a matter of understanding what works in terms of 

the foreground, middle ground and background and the 

layering required to get that 3D effect. The ocean naturally 

assists in that regard because you have swell lines. It was 

an exciting discovery. 

DAVE: I understand the equipment side of things 

was quite complex? 

JUSTIN: We used a range of equipment from 3D GoPros 

with modified housings to giant side-by-side rigs on the 

back of fishing trawlers. A lot of the technology in terms of 

the rigs existed but only in bits and pieces, not as a whole. 

We really had to design and build from the ground up. The 

gear we required, such as the main camera unit, which 

was a beam splitter rig that allowed us to shoot wide 

angles and then punch in really tight close up shots. We 

wanted a mix of beautiful big landscapes in 3D as well as 

up close and personal shots of Ross and Tom. 

The giant side-by-side rig itself is a four-man operation 

just to run that camera out at sea. Plus, none of the 

systems were waterproofed at all, so we had to develop a 

waterproofing system along with a means to keep water 

off the lenses. We were shooting in harsh environments, 

so it was essential. 

We had a lot of challenges. We needed a lot of time and 

money to develop this gear and we had neither. We were 

basically developing equipment as we were shooting. 

There were a lot of ridiculously late nights and testing gear 

in crazy conditions. We would learn what we needed to 

change and then come back and work on the rigs again. 

Underwater Director of Photography Dean Cropp captures 

Tom Carroll’s wave of the day. Photo: Dean Dampney 


LATEST: INTERVIEW 


23

LATEST: COMMUNITY 

TOP: The Storm Surfers camera crew secure their purpose-built 3D camera rig to 

the fishing boat, which is about to take them 75 km offshore to a never-beforesurfed 

break. Photo: Mick Curley INSET: The camera boat gets knocked by a 

massive swell, almost destroying the Side x Side 3D camera rig. Photo: Mike Riley 

BOTTOM: Justin McMillan and Dean Cropp track Tom Carroll as he flies down the 

face of a giant wave at a previously un-ridden break. Photo: Jamie Scott 


We had a camera department that was completely 

devoted to not being beaten by the elements. I get a 

sense of gratification from the narrative of the story but 

also a sense of achievement from what went down. I 

am proud of what we achieved as a team technically to 

allow the audience to go to these environments. 

It would have been really easy to throw a project like 

this into the ‘too hard basket’. I think in four or five 

years time there will be better technology out there 

where you will be able to shoot a film such as this a 

lot more easily, but we just weren’t prepared to wait 

that long. 

DAVE: So how long did the project take? 

JUSTIN: From start to finish from the first day of 

shooting to the last day of edit was a year and a half. 

The filming took around four to five months. 

In terms of developing the gear, shooting the film 

and the editing suite, not one of those stages was 

easy. The editing, if anything, was harder than the 

shooting. So many shots to sift through, fix up… So 

many different camera formats. We had 1500 hours 

of footage. 

No one had done it before so there wasn’t anyone you 

could call for advice. We couldn’t bring in an expert. 

We had to figure it out for ourselves. We were just so 

lucky we had some intelligent people working on the 

project and such good post-production partners. 

DAVE: I gather filming a movie of this nature 

presents a number of challenges particularly 

when your studio is a heaving ocean? 

JUSTIN: It is a logistical challenge. I mean, some of 

the locations we are filming in are quite remote and 

we essentially have a four-hour window where the 

conditions are just right to get twenty-five crew, five 

jetskis, helicopters, light aircraft and all the gear – 

camera rigs, some twenty-six 3D cameras - and other 

various bits of equipment out to the break. In Western 

Australia we travelled six hours in a cray-fishing boat 

just to get out there. 

Once out there, there’s no, “Take two.” People are 

putting their lives on the line and you pray we have 

captured it. 

DAVE: You are also keen on surfing big waves. 

Does this help with positioning the cameramen 

to get the right camera angle? 

JUSTIN: I like surfing biggish waves, but about a third 

of the size that Ross Clarke-Jones likes them. I’ve 

never considered myself to be a big wave surfer in any 

shape or form. 

I have spent a lot of time in the ocean when it has 

been massive. The more time you put yourself on the 

coalface, the more comfortable you become. You gain a 

better understanding of the ocean. 

Ever since I was young, that type of ocean has made 

me feel alive. So I can see how guys like Tom and Ross 

get addicted to riding those waves. I get addicted to 

trying to capture it on film. 

When I talk with the likes of Jack McCoy and Tim 

Bonython - those legends of the industry - they have 

the same addiction. I think it is pretty common for 

anyone who does this kind of stuff. 

DAVE: An in-depth understanding of the ocean 

helps, but there is obviously a lot of danger 

involved in putting together a film of this nature? 

JUSTIN: Anyone that goes on these things is definitely 

putting themselves at risk. I’m on a ski the whole time, 

running things from the water. Chris is either on a 

fishing trawler nearby or a helicopter with Ben Matson. 

You want to be in the trenches with the guys to 

show them you are just as committed as they are, 

despite a huge gap between filming in the water to 

catching these waves. But I think everyone in these 

circumstances has their sleeves rolled up and their 

hands dirty. I think that’s really important if you are 

going to lead a team of close to thirty people. 

We have had situations where Chris is in the helicopter 

and has lost altitude due to an exploding wave and the 

rear rotor has almost clipped the lip of a wave. I’ve had 

numerous instances where the jetski has stalled with 

a 20ft wave coming towards me. If you are going to go 

out there, then you‘re in the firing line. 

It’s not as dangerous as the surfing, but the stakes are 

high nonetheless. Everyone is putting their lives at risk 

and because we are working in the ocean. That tired, 

old cliché rings true: ‘Expect the unexpected.’ If a wave 

has never broken in that particular part of the channel, 

don’t think it can’t. You get freak occurrences and when 

you combine that with people who are caught up in 

the action filming something, you find boats drifting 

too close to the break and inevitably yourself or your 

crew in precarious situations. We are all spotting for 

one another but the call may come for the cameraman 

to get closer… Then a wide one comes and you are in 

a situation. 

With that said, if you kept thinking about something 

that nearly happened and that could have happened, 

you probably wouldn’t end up doing anything. 

DAVE: Was there ever a point where it was just 

too big or where you said, “Did you just see the 

size of that thing that just swam past?” 

JUSTIN: There was a situation in Western Australia 

where Tom went over the falls on a jetski and we were 

towing the ski back in. A pod of forty dolphins went 

past and then a giant Southern Right Whale that was 

as big as a bus came right up alongside us. It’s at times 

like that you feel so insignificant in the ocean - in a 

place where, I guess, humans aren’t really supposed to 

be. You are a part of something a lot bigger. 

If anything was going to happen, there were so many 

opportunities for it to happen this year whilst filming the 

movie. Dangling in deep water, 75km off shore waiting 

for sets to come… In Western Australia where I think 

there has been six fatalities in the last 12 months. 

There are things you have to do that are unavoidable. 

You have to be in the water to rig up skis. We will 

spend up to twenty minutes in the water swimming 

around getting these skis on and off the trawler. You 

have deckhands on these trawlers looking over the side 

keeping an eye on things, shaking their heads because 

they know what they have seen off the back of their 

boats in these environments. 

“ IF YOU KEPT THINKING ABOUT SOMETHING THAT 

NEARLY HAPPENED AND THAT COULD HAVE HAPPENED, 

YOU PROBABLY WOULDN’T END UP DOING ANYTHING.” 

Photo: Rodd Owen Photo: Rodd Owen Photo: Dean Dampney 

MEET THE (HELL)MEN 

TOM CARROLL 

Regarded as one of the world’s best 

surfers. He won two world surfing 

championship crowns in 1984 and 

1985 and won the Pipeline Masters in 

Hawaii three times etching his name in 

the record books as one of the greatest 

surfers of his era. 

ROSS CLARKE-JONES 

The first non-Hawaiian to win the 

prestigious Eddie Aikau Memorial at 

Waimea Bay on Hawaii’s north shore. 

The competition is only held when the 

waves break consistently at twenty feet. 

He is one of the all time great big wave 

surfers and a pioneer of tow-surfing. 

BEN MATSON 

A world leading 

meteorologist and 

surf forecaster 

and the man who 

developed www. 

swellnet.com.au, 

one of Australia’s most popular surf 

forecasting sites. It all started for Ben when 

he was studying meteorology and posted 

his surf forecasts on the noticeboard of his 

local surf store in Adelaide. 

JUSTIN MCMILLAN & CHRIS NELIUS 

It would be impossible to produce a 

film of this nature without the pairing 

of these two co-directors working in 

unison. The director/ writer/ producer 

partnership began six years ago with 

the making of Ross Clarke-Jones’ 

biopic The Sixth Element. They teamed 

up again with Ross to surf the Cape 

of Good Hope resulting in a half-hour 

documentary Cape of Storms and then 

again with Ross, Tom and a number 

of other big wave surfers in Red Bull: 

Tai Fu. From there, with the help 

of Firelight Productions, the Storm 

Surfers series began: Storm Surfers – 

Dangerous Banks 2008, Storm Surfers 

– New Zealand 2010 and now Storm 

Surfers 3D. 


25

PLANNING ON SURFING 

WEST 

SUMATRA? 

Make sure Huey 1 is your 

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Insane food, a boat that is a class 

above and a crew to match. 

I suppose it is just one of those instances where ignorance is bliss. If you 

don’t know what’s there and you don’t see it come up and give you a nudge, 

then you just get on with things. It is in the back of your mind though. 

In terms of the surf, Tom’s wipeout shook us all up. The jetski he had at the 

time was a little more agile than what he is used to and it handled a little 

differently. It was a little more ‘slidey’ and he ended up going over the falls 

on a fifteen foot wave. 

It’s dangerous enough in itself, but what made it even more dangerous 

was that we had attached carbon fibre camera brackets to the front of the 

ski and had put air tanks on the back for our air jets to blow water off the 

camera lenses. 

Once he went over the falls, the gear just exploded off the ski and 

was floating around in the white water with him. He could have been 

impaled on the camera bracket or knocked out by one of the air tanks 

and been underwater. We wouldn’t have found him for quite some time. 

That was a wake-up call for everyone. It’s a fun job but we almost lost 

one of our mates. 

It certainly rattled me quite a bit because I am pretty close with Tom’s 

family. To deliver that kind of news to anyone would be the worst possible 

thing you would ever have to do. 

DAVE: Was there a particular surf spot that was a standout? 

JUSTIN: To be honest, there wasn’t one break that stood out against 

another. I had been to a couple of these breaks before but I didn’t prefer 

one break over another. Each wave brought something different to each guy 

throughout the course of the year. 

By taking the guys to all these different waves, we discovered that one 

felt more comfortable on a certain wave and vice versa. That’s where the 

narrative of the story started to form. We were noticing chinks in their 

armour and we were able to craft a story from all their different reactions to 

these different breaks. 

We also started to notice we had stumbled upon a turning point in their 

careers. That’s a nice thing as a filmmaker to figure out. We wouldn’t have 

encountered this had we only done one mission. 

We were fortunate to uncover a real honesty of character in both 

surfers. That was the essence of the film and what I think has 

fortunately come across. 

To be a part of the event, catch the tour around Australia from August 

14. The film premieres in Sydney, followed by 25 special event screenings 

around the country featuring Ross Clarke-Jones and Tom Carroll live on 

stage. If you miss one of those, the movie will be rolling out nationally 

thereafter. 

Visit the Storm Surfers event website stormsurfers.com.au to view the 

trailer, buy tickets, request a screening in your town and more. 

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TRAVEL: THE MALDIVES 

Having watched the Aussie-made 

movie about a surf trip gone wrong – 

Caught Inside – it will now forever be 

impossible not to picture “The Bull” 

going off his nut when hearing of a girl 

going on a surf charter boat full of boys 

- and in this particular case, to the same 

location as the movie was shot too! 

Fortunately, the reality of being the only 

girl surfer on board in the Maldives 

was far more pleasant than the furious 

fallout on film, as Sunshine Coast surfer 

Alyson Ramsay was happy to find out. 

WORDS: MARK CHAPMAN 

PHOTOS: JADE AT LIQUID DESTINATION 


31

ABOVE: Relaxing 

at the resort. You’re 

welcome to have a 

few drinks here, but 

not outside on the 

islands. 

RIGHT: Relaxing 

on the boat... Life’s 

looking pretty good. 

Photos supplied by 

Alyson 

32 jul/aug 2012 

“No… It was all good,” Alyson says 

with a big smile. “There were only five 

of us surfers on the boat and we were 

all individuals. There were no groups, I 

wasn’t on the outer and everyone was very 

sociable. It was a perfect mix. I was the 

only girl surfer, but there were two other 

girls as part of the crew. They were stoked 

as well to have a girl surfer on board.” 

Before she left there were plenty of 

warnings and much concern from family 

and friends about this ‘going on a surf trip 

with a bunch of blokes thing’, including 

being handed a copy of Caught Inside 

on DVD to prepare her for the worst. But 

fortunately, due to the busy life as chef at 

Marcoola Beach coffee shop, Bulli, and 

spending all her spare time in the water 

training for the trip, Alyson never got 

around to seeing “The Bull” lose it and as 

such, was just unbelievably excited about 

a trip to paradise instead. (Not sure what 

we mean? Watch Caught Inside - seriously 

- and check out our interview with Ben 

Oxenbould in the Nov/Dec 2011 issue of 

smorgasboarder.) 

The crew obviously saw the funny side of the 

feature film though and made sure to pop the 

movie into the DVD player on board. 

“It was so frustrating, watching people not 

taking their lives into their own hands!” 

Alyson laughs… “We were shouting at the 

screen “Just do something! Hit him!” 

“Yes, there are bogan freaks among us,” 

Alyson concedes, but was happy to report 

that there were none on board with her. 

And as it turns out, the surf conditions were 

as friendly as the people on board. 

“There are sections that are crazy shallow, 

but it wasn’t dangerous. Even the casual 

surfers had fun. 

“We had two or three surfs a day, and I 

must have got 30 or 40 waves a session. 

I’m a bit of a groveller, so I just trawled 

around to get everything I could.” 

With 1,192 islands in a chain of 26 atolls 

over 90,000 square kilometers there would 

be plenty trawling choice in this Indian 

Ocean wave paradise. The reefs that 

provide the water funland are made up 

of coral perched on top of a 960km long 

undersea ridge that runs north to south off 

the Indian Lakshadweep islands, South- 

West of Sri Lanka and India. 

Perfect waves in tropical water is a few 

degrees up on the thermometer from how 

it all started for Alyson though, growing 

up in Victoria and enjoying her first surfing 

experiences on the Mornington Peninsula. 

“I probably started surfing at around 12, 

but only once or twice a year,. Being in 

Melbourne. It was so cold and I wasn’t very 

good, but every year we came up to Noosa for 

family holidays and stayed at the Sunshine 

Beach caravan park, which was great.

SURFING PICS: 

A choice of lefts 

and rights were on 

offer for the entire 

trip, all captured 

by the on-board 

photographer, Jade. 

BEHIND THE SCENES: 

What’s better than a 

surf trip with proof? 

Here’s Liquid Destination 

photographer, Jade, 

hard at work capturing 

those magic moments. 


33

“Later on we went to Little Cove and hung 

out there. I would just try and surf whenever 

I could on holidays. Then I moved up here and 

finished my chef’s apprenticeship when I was 

21, have been here ever since and don’t plan 

on leaving anytime soon. So now I just surf as 

much as possible.” 

From these warmer waters of the Sunshine 

Coast, Alyson has travelled a fair bit already 

and ticked a few must-surf destinations off her 

list, including Pipeline in Hawaii. 

“I surfed Pipeline at around 3 to 4 foot. It was 

still scary as hell, but I just wanted to say I’d 

surfed it,” she says modestly. 

With the travel bug’s bite not going away 

anytime soon, the decision to surf in the 

Maldives was an easy one and lived up to every 

expectation. 

“It looked beautiful and the surf is cruisy, not 

too heavy or gnarly - which I don’t mind - but for 

a holiday you want to enjoy yourself regardless. 

It was consistently 2-3 foot, clean waves a nice 

crew and good people. 

“I had my own room – probably one of the 

better ones - so privacy was never an issue and 

there was always space to just chill out and get 

away from everyone. 

“We also stopped off and went to a resort a 

few nights for dinner, which was amazing. It 

was like, ten stars, if that’s even possible.” 

Not content with just dinner, Alyson even ended 

up getting stitches from the friendly folk at the 

island resort after a little argument with the reef. 

(See the tough-girl duct tape in the photos) 

“But yes, going to the islands really broke the 

trip up well,” Alyson says. 

Having experienced the islands, Alyson can 

also now say that she’s set foot in the ‘lowest 

country in the world.” At it’s highest elevation, 

the Maldives reaches up to 2.4m above sea 

level. With 80% of the islands being less than 

1m above sea level, it’s no wonder the country 

was named third most endangered in list of 

Island nations at highest risk of flooding due to 

climate change by a recent UK university study. 

While climate-change-influenced flooding 

wouldn’t be top of mind while relaxing on 

a luxury surf boat, Alyson had a couple of 

floatation devices handy anyway… 

“I had my 6’4” Josh Dowling and a standard 

6’0” Shotgun thruster. I actually didn’t damage 

my boards at all. I got a tiny little ding on the 

Dowling on the way home. No-one else had any 

injuries or breaks or anything … 



ABOVE: The stoke 

behind the smile is as 

crystal clear as the 

water itself. 

FAR LEFT: War 

wounds... A brush with 

the reef, neatly stitched 

up by friendly resort 

staff and tough-girl 

duct-taped-up to go 

surfing again 

LEFT: Lean back, relax. 

There’s not too much to 

stress about here. 

When not surfing, Alyson is the chef at Bulli Café in 

Marcoola – a great coffee shop right across from the 

beach, only a few steps to the sand. 

“It’s my partner, Andoni’s business. He started it and I 

came on board about three months into it… He calls 

me “the polish,” so I guess I bring the polish (laughs). 

We’re just a little coffee shop and we try and keep it 

really simple, fresh. We do pizzas of an evening, again 

just simple and fresh. 

“I enjoy the social aspect of it, meeting new people, 

great people. It’s all good, and we’ve got great staff 

too... It’s like a little family. 

“I try and surf in between, whenever I can. Wally (of 

Wally’s Water Gallery just across the road) has put 

some flags out just for me, so all I have to do is look 

out the window. If they’re offshore, I’m very happy.” 


35

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While the Maldives is a very mal-friendly destination as well, she had prepared 

to make the most of the conditions on her shortboard, surfing her favourite spots 

at home regularly in the lead-up to the trip - glassy, a-frame beachbreaks along 

the Sunshine Coast North Shore and the pointbreaks of Noosa. 

“I just got myself as ready as I could, surfed as much as possible before I 

went, which seems like the logical thing to do,” she says. 

The preparation paid off in spades and Alyson got to make the most of the 

early season Maldives waves. Now she’s keen to get back as soon as her 

busy schedule allows. 

“Absolutely,” she says. “Get involved. Do it. Get out there. 

“I’d love to be able to go back at the drop of a hat, when it’s on.” 

We’re sure the Liquid Destination crew will have Alyson on speed-dial to 

have her back over any time. Who knows - with the season far from over 

and those glassy, empty waves going unridden, it might just be enough of a 

reason to leave the Sunshine Coast for another ten days, sooner than later. 

TOP: In between all the playful 

waves were plenty more 

serious ones too. The Maldives 

is definitely a surf destination 

for all levels of experience. 

BELOW: Once again, the 

smile says it all. 

RIGHT: Sweeeet(s). 

Alyson was a guest of Liquid Destination and the photos in this story were taken 

by Liquid Destination on-board photographer, Jade Rogers. If you think you’d be 

even half as photogenic as Alyson and would like a similar surf trip of a lifetime, 

with the memories and visual proof to boot, get in touch with Liquid Destination, 

or check out the website for more information - www.liquiddestination.com 


FOLLOW THE ACTION DAILY VIA THE LIQUID BLOG! 

Liquid Destination is an Australian owned and operated company 

with a vast amount of experience surfing all regions of the 

Maldives. It doesn’t matter what level surfer you are Liquid can 

tailor a trip to suit your ability. Operating surf charters is no part 

time gig for these guys they live and breathe the place. The 

introduction of an exclusive vessel in 2012 focused on chasing the 

biggest and best the Maldives has to offer confirms their desire to 

show people what this place is truly capable of. If on the other hand 

a tour of the region with a surf photography package, island 

adventures, fishing trips and just generally kicking back and taking 

it all in then the well known N1 boat is for you. If you have ever 

wondered what the Maldives is really like check out the website and 

get as close as you can to experiencing one of the world’s premier 

surf destinations. 


37



It’s an annual surf trip with a difference. As the saying goes, ‘You only get out 

what you put in.’ The attendees of this annual conference certainly get the 

opportunity to partake in some Maldivian magic but truth be told, they also do 

a lot for the local community and surfers in general. 

WORDS: DAVE SWAN 

MAIN: Hussein ‘Iboo’ Areef, the resident 

Maldivian government liaison officer. 

ABOVE: In response to a recent tragedy 

where five year nine schoolgirls died at a 

school camp, along with their principal who 

was endeavouring to save them, AMPED 

have introduced a CPR program to train local 

teachers as well as a ‘learn to swim’ program. 


39



Senior Paramedic 

Harry Gatt 

In September 1986 a group of twentysomething 

healthcare professionals from 

around the globe gathered at Tavarua 

Island, Fiji, for the world’s first medical 

conference to focus on the treatment and 

prevention of surfing related injuries. This 

was in response to the worldwide surge 

of people of all ages taking up surfing. 

During the first conference on Tavarua, 

it also became apparent how little the 

local community had in the way of 

medical services. As a result the aim 

of future conferences was extended to 

incorporate an active role in improving the 

medical infrastructure of the indigenous 

community visited, contributing to their 

health and welfare. The Surfers Medical 

Association (SMA) was born. 

In the years to follow, conferences were 

held in Gnaraloo, Western Australia (where 

an independent body, SMA Australia was 

spawned), Grajagan, East Java and the 

Mentawai Islands off West Sumatra. 

It was the 2004 Boxing Day Tsunami, 

where SMA Australia worked closely 

with the Maldivian Health Ministry that 

proved to be the catalyst to an ongoing 

understanding with the Maldivian 

Government. All conferences since have 

been held at the Dhonveli Resort in the 

Maldives and organised exclusively 

through Atoll Travel. 

The medical symposiums feature 

presentations and debate from a diverse 

group of speakers that encompass a 

broad range of topics in the medical 

field including the latest clinical studies, 

evidence and personal experience. The 

relaxed setting and informal nature of 

the conference encourages interactive 

audience participation to fully utilise the 

expertise present. 

Harry Gatt who is the Secretary of SMA 

Australia, recently renamed AMPED – the 

Allied Medical Professionals for Education 

and Development, explains the charter of 

the organisation. 

“Our aim is to provide educational 

sessions to medical staff at the two 

hospitals in Malé, offer advice to 

government departments and run clinics 

at community health care centres. We 

also acquire medical equipment for the 

disadvantaged and raise much needed 

funds for people in need. 

“That’s what possibly differentiates us 

from other medical conferences. Plus 

there is an opportunity for conference 

delegates to participate in long running 

projects that AMPED conducts. We get in 

plenty of surfs but also work hard for the 

local community.” 

The organisation’s recent name change more 

accurately reflects the work they undertake 

but is also aimed at attracting professionals 

from across the medical field. 

“We don’t want to simply focus on 

one area of medicine. Our invitees and 

guest speakers are from various sectors 

within and affiliated with the medical 

industry. We have had doctors attend the 

conference, psychiatrists, plastic surgeons 

specialising in the field of reconstructive 

surgery, orthopaedic surgeons, 

geneticists, paramedics and even lawyers 

with experience in the medical field.” 

FROM THE TOP: 

Surfing, working, 

surfing and more 

working... Not a 

bad way to spend 

some time in the 

Maldives. 


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Harry himself is a paramedic of 

some thirty-two year, his last 

twenty-two years spent working 

with the Ambulance Service of NSW 

Helicopter Rescue Service. 

“We really bring some incredible 

people together and many of them 

have ended up life-long friends.” 

Aside from their ongoing work with 

the local community, Harry rates 

the Maldives as superb. 

“There is just a really good vibe on 

the island. We have Pasta Point 

for our exclusive use and within 

ten minutes we have another two 

world-class right hand breaks and 

another left-hand break. 

“The breaks deliver really nice, 

quality long rides suitable for a 

range of skill levels. The breaks are 

fairly uncrowded and appeal to a 

slightly older surfer. There are still 

some hot young surfers over there 

but not as many as perhaps some 

other surf destinations. In terms 

of price, it is still good value but it 

is not as cheap as say Indo so you 

don’t get the same crowds. 

“The waves can be challenging 

when overhead, but they break into 

deeper water and aren’t as hollow 

as what some reef breaks can be. 

They are still very, very good though. 

The water clarity and marine life in 

the Maldives is something I have 

never experienced surfing anywhere 

else. It’s stunning.” 


AMPED’S ACHIEVEMENTS: 

Assisting with the clinical 

development of the Ambulance 

Service and Emergency Department 

at the Malé Indira Ghandi Hospital. 

SMA Australia has installed a series 

of Automated External Defibrillators 

(AED) across three island village 

communities. 

The 2004 Boxing Day tsunami 

produced a new set of problems 

in mental health for the country. A 

subgroup of the SMA, spearheaded by 

2010 Australian of the year Professor 

Pat McGorry, is working with local 

authorities to develop a national 

mental health policy and plan to 

unlock new resources and programs. 

Since the Maldives’ islands 

are spread over a large area, 

the challenge of providing 

contemporary health care can be 

greatly assisted by utilising both 

marine and aeromedical resources. 

SMA members are assisting local 

authorities to develop this. 

Doing good and having 

a good time. A mix of 

work and play is what 

the members create 

for themselves on their 

annual trip. 

FAR LEFT: Dr. Mark 

Gillette of the Royal 

North Shore Hospital in 

Sydney at work. 

ATOLL TRAVEL 

AMPED’s long association with Atoll 

Travel is testament to the service 

they provide. Around three quarters 

of Atoll Travel’s present day clientele 

have booked the same slot, year 

in, year out through Atoll Travel for 

some sixteen years. That’s some 

pretty serious client loyalty. 

It all started with Ian Lyon, the 

owner and director of Atoll Travel 

coordinating bookings for the very 

successful Atoll Adventures surfing 

program run by his good friend, the 

late Tony Hussein Hinde’s. Tony 

regularly attended the AMPED 

conference and much loved friend to 

many of the attendees. 

Atoll Travel now represent several 

other surf resorts and boat based 

trips in popular surf destinations 

such as Samoa, the Maldives outer 

atolls, Mentawais, North Sumatra, 

West Timor, Sumbawa, Bali, Fiji and 

Sri Lanka. Concentrating on a limited 

number of destinations means 

Atoll Travel work closely with the 

respective resort and boat operators 

to ensure client satisfaction. 

For more see: www.atolltravel.com 

Wooden Surfboard 

Workshops 

Build your own wooden surfboard in a three 

day workshop and take home your very 

own handmade hollow wooden surfboard. 

Using the latest construction methods, 

the boards don’t need to be fibreglassed 

therefore reducing the overall cost of making 

your board and the time to complete it. 

www.treetosea.com.au 

email: info@treetosea.com.au 

or phone: Robert 0409 211 751 

Gary 0423 804 975 

Instructors of the Tree to Sea Australia workshops 

Surfboards are designed by Rich Blundell (USA) 

Workshops are held in Mt Eliza on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula 

Dates for 2012: 

(check website for details) 

August - SOLD OUT 

September - weekend 

October - midweek 

November - weekend 

December - midweek 

AUSTRALIA 

DISCOVER SOUTH AMERICAN SURF! ON A CENTRAL AND NORTHERN 

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WWW.PERU-AVENTURA.COM 


43

TRAVEL: CAROLINE ISLANDS 


Grant Shankster of World Surfaris gives us a look into the Caroline Islands, 

and the cool waterfront accommodation of the Pohnpei Surf Club. 

WORDS: GRANT SHANKSTER PHOTOS: RICHARD KOTCH 


45

TRAVEL: CAROLINE ISLANDS 

North of New Guinea and East of the Philippines you’ll find the scattered 

archipelagos of the Caroline Islands. On a map it looks like God knocked over the 

pepper pot, as 500 small coral islands are dotted into the vast blue of the Western 

Pacific. Of the 500, Pohnpei, is the major Island - home to the infamous ‘Palikir Pass’. 

Roughly circular in shape and surrounded by surf, Pohnpei is home to epic 

scenery, amazing people and even a little mystery. One of the Federated States of 

Micronesia, it’s a surfer’s dreamland. That’s before you even start to take in the 

breathtaking scenery and the coral reef lagoons, teeming with life. 

Pohnpei has developed an unfair 

reputation for being purely 8-10 ft 

bombs, sheer drops, followed by huge 

cavernous pits and all while the reef 

zips by under your feet at breakneck 

speed. For the average surfer it comes 

across as a little intimidating, but the 

reality however, is far different. 

Bigger days definitely happen and 

pros flock last minute for a slice of the 

action which has just augmented the 

reputation. But looking at it over time 

gives a much clearer picture. 

You can expect 3-5ft and consistent, 

long walls and very makeable sections. 

It is, for all intents and purposes, an 

‘every surfer’s’ destination. 

Another common misconception 

about Pohnpei is that it’s a one wave 

wonder - that one wave being Palikir 

Pass, or P-Pass. In fact there are 

dozens of setups - lefts and rights. 

Most are hidden and some are fickle, 

but all them require a guide with local 

knowledge, and of course the means 

to get you off shore and into these 

secret spots. 

P-Pass will definitely serve as the 

staple of your wave diet during your 

stay at Pohnpei. Pro surfer Dylan 

Longbottom explains the ride: 

“For how gnarly it looks from the 

outside, the wave is actually really 

easy to surf. There’s a spot on the reef, 

and if you sit right there it just lets you 

roll into it without much fuss. From 

there it’s just a bottom turn, line it up, 

hold your ground and get tubed for 

five seconds. When it’s in that 6-8 feet 

range, it’s just this perfect hole.” 

But like all good buffets, there’s so 

much more on offer. There are over 15 

passes and reef bends that do produce 

world class waves. There are some 

real hidden jewels on the east and SE 

side of the island that get surfed only 

by a few lucky guys every year. Local 

knowledge is essential. 


Fishing is amazing in the region. If 

you’re up for a walk there are numerous 

nature hikes, cultural tours and the 

scattered remains of abandoned World 

War II relics to see. 

The ruins of the Nan Madol are also 

well worth visiting. Centuries old, 

the ruined city is made up of artificial 

islands - rock and coral platforms 

- surrounded by canals. The name 

Nan Madol actually means “spaces 

between” referring to these canals. The 

buildings were constructed using huge 

blocks of stone, but no-one can say 

exactly where the stones came from or 

how they got there. 


47

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Cnr Lawson & Jonson, Byron Bay 

02 6680 9666 www.balcony.com.au 

A perfect way to experience the magic 

of the Caroline Islands is by staying 

at the Pohnpei Surf Club, the PSC. It’s 

situated on the estuary that opens to 

the island’s lagoon, so it’s just a case 

of waking up, waxing up and sitting 

in the boat until its time to get wet. 

With great positioning and a relaxed 

atmosphere, everything you need is 

at hand. PSC voluntarily limits surfer 

numbers to an easily manageable 

twenty people at a time. 

If the people make the place, then this 

place has it made. The host, Allois, 

is heaps of fun and goes out of his 

way to make guests as comfortable 

as possible. The saying ‘arrive as a 

stranger, leave as a friend’ definitely 

applies here. His local knowledge is 

second to none and he knows the area 

intimately. 

When it’s the off-season he scours 

the island, usually to feed his appetite 

for fishing – and the fishing is unreal. 

Tracking swells days in advance, 

Allois’ almost supernatural talent 

for picking the right spot has guests 

surfing on the best waves to suit their 

personal surfing ability. 

Legendary surf guides Richard and 

Amy Kotch signed on at PSC last year 

and decided to come back for the 

2012/13 season. Fun, friendly and 

super handy with a camera (most 

of these photos are taken by the 

dynamite duo) this married couple 

work as surf guides around the world 

and are a great asset on any surf trip. 

Then throw in a bunch of larger than 

life characters that go above and 

beyond to make sure your surf holiday 

is just that ‘a holiday’. These locals 

themselves are happy and inviting, 

like all Pacific islanders. 

Allois is also the proud owner of 

whole flotilla of seaworthy and fast 

vessels. Jet skis, long boats with 

photography towers, twin engines 

and huge canopies for comfort. This 

armada of surf tenders is the icing on 

the cake when you’re staying at PSC. 

What a place to stay, what an 

amazing place to explore with so 

much to offer. 


World Surfaris offer peak season spaces starting from $2,265pp 

for 7 nights and $2,935pp for 10 nights with return flights flying 

United Airlines. 

For a full list of inclusions and package details visit theWorld 

Surfaris website at www.worldsurfaris.com or phone the World 

Surfaris Pohnpei expert, David Scard on 1800 611 163 for a chat 

and get the ball rolling on your perfect Pohnpei escape. 

A friendly heads up: United Airlines is the only airline to fly 

to the Carolines. There are regular flights but early bookings are 

essential to guarantee you a seat. 


49


Regardless of whether or not you’ve been bitten by the Bali bug, when you 

see this classy villa, you definitely want to be there. That was definitely 

my first reaction when seeing the stunning fitout of Dukes at Bingin - not 

any average surfie shack. 

WORDS: DAVE SWAN, PHOTOS: DUKES 

It’s hard to believe, for me at least, that I met Warwick Martin close to 

twenty years ago when I was first rediscovering longboarding. Back then, 

Warwick was running a cool little surf store at Mermaid Beach on the 

Gold Coast called Dukes Longboards. 

A few years ago, he mentioned he had started to build some villas in 

Bali, about forty minutes south of Denpasar. Warwick’s trips across to 

Bali became more regular and about twelve months back he moved there 

permanently. You can see why. 

Warwick has established two classy, private villas near the village of 

Bingin Beach on the beautiful Bukit Peninsula. The area is central to five 

great wave locations - Bingin, Impossibles, Padang-Padang, Dreamland 

and Balangan - catering for all manner of surfers from beginners through 

to the highly skilled. The beaches of Dreamland and Padang-Padang are 

also renowned for their white sand and clear water. When you add to 

that the fact the world famous Uluwatu is just 10 minutes drive away you 

pretty much come to realise this is surfing heaven. 

The villas themselves are equipped with everything you could possibly 

want from TV, DVD and sound system to a fully stocked refrigerator and 

spacious lounge, kitchen, sunbeds... You name it... Even a maid service 

and daily breakfast and lunch. 

One villa caters for six 

people (3 bedrooms) and 

features its own private 

10m swimming pool, 

and the other sleeps four 

people (2 bedrooms) and it 

too has its own private 8m 

swimming pool. 

There are even surfboards 

available to hire if you’re 

too lazy to bring your own 

and considering the fact 

Warwick used to run one 

of the best surf shops on 

the Gold Coast, you can 

only guess he’ll have some 

quality boards. 

Who said there is no such thing as a classy surf trip away with your 

partner and a few close friends? www.dukesbingin.com 


51

RIGHT & ABOVE: 

Looking inside 

from the safety 

of the boat. Photo 

‘Rusty’ Russell 


TRAVEL: FIJI 

Heightened interest in Fiji as a surf destination followed the 

recent Volcom Pro 

in June at the world famous Cloudbreak. 

Even those scarcely interested in the ASP World Tour would 

have found themselves marveling at some of the best pro 

surfers and big wave hell men tackling a monstrous Cloudbreak 

when competition was called off on day three of the event. 

With Fiji well and truly on every surfer’s radar, we spoke with 

David ‘Hutch’ Hutchison from The Surf Travel Co. about Fiji as 

a surf destination and what impact the Surfing Decree brought 

into effect on July 9, 2010 has had on the region. 

INTERVIEW: DAVE SWAN PHOTOS: ‘RUSTY’ RUSSELL 


53

TRAVEL: FIJI 

Smorgasboarder: So Hutch, for those 

unfamiliar with the Surfing Decree, would 

you mind explaining how it came about and 

what laws were in place beforehand? 

Hutch: Prior to the legislation Fiji had a longstanding 

law that related to the customary 

ownership of rights to fishing grounds, which 

extended to the outer reef slope. Like land rights, 

traditional fishing area rights were the order of the 

local village, which regulated its use. Any waves 

that fell within those areas were deemed to be the 

asset of the village that held the fishing rights. 

The government was, and still is of the belief 

that this practice hindered tourism and so they 

stepped in. They felt if they abolished this 

law they could attract more surfers and hence 

increase tourism to the area. 

The new legislation allowed public admission to 

a range of world-class waves such as Cloudbreak 

and Restaurants on Tavarua and Swimming Pools 

on nearby Namotu that were previously only 

accessible through the patronage of these private 

resorts. 

So basically the Fijian government legislated 

that exclusivity on breaks would no longer exist 

and that a custodian sentence would be imposed 

upon anyone stopping surfers from entering the 

water anywhere in Fiji. 

It’s now two years since the decree was 

brought into effect. Has it had an impact on 

surfing in the region? 

For the first month or so Cloudbreak was 

nicknamed ‘Crowdbreak’ but it simply wasn’t 

true. Nothing has really changed aside from the 

fact there are a few more transient surfers out at 

Cloudbreak and Namotu. 

The main issue now, some two years after the 

law was passed, is the regulation of the breaks 

- particularly waves like Cloudbreak. Those that 

did catch the action from the recent Volcom Pro 

would understand why some sort of regulation 

of the break is required. Otherwise, someone is 

going to get seriously hurt out there. We need to 

avoid instances where surfers are just dropping in 

and treating it like a beach break when it really is 

a serious reef break. 

Tavarua and Namotu have a duty of care to their 

guests and look after them at the various breaks 

surrounding the resorts. They patrol the breaks 

with lifeguards and jet skis. In stark contrast to 

this, some resorts send their guests out on open 

banana boats. If their guests get into trouble it is 

the guys from Tavarua or Namotu that often have 

to assist in their rescue. 

I think what the Fiji Surfing Association is working 

on together with Tavarua and Namotu is cutting 

edge stuff. They are trying to get the wave 

regulated for safety reasons. 

Certain competitions in Hawaii are regulated but 

what we are talking about here is a permanent 

presence at the break to monitor proceedings and 

keep crowd control in order. 

The number of surfers at the break will also be 

taken into consideration. When Tavarua had 

exclusivity over the break, thirty-two people could 

stay on the island but only twenty-one surfers 

were allowed at Cloudbreak at any one time so 

they could be safely monitored. 

What number of surfers would be allowed on 

the break at any one time in the future will be 

dependant on conditions and a ruling by the Fiji 

Surf Association. A resolution to this complex 

issue is not going be arrived at overnight or 

without consulting all those affected by it. 

Aside from safety concerns and ensuring 

first aid is at hand, how else do they plan to 

regulate the break? 

At their own expense, Tavarua puts out boat 

moorings at the reef to limit reef degradation. 

Now you have other boats just throwing their 

pick over and obviously, when they pull it up, 

they break the coral. So there is increased reef 

degradation. 

So crowd factor is one concern but so is the 

environmental impact. It is a matter of striking a 

balance so everyone can enjoy the break safely 

and responsibly. 

I don’t imagine how but would they ever try 

to regulate the break according to a surfer’s 

ability level? 

I don’t know how you would apply such a thing. 

What I do know however is that when you see 

Cloudbreak breaking in all its glory, you know 

personally whether or not you have the ability to 

surf it. 


Photos ‘Rusty’ Russell 


55

Photo ‘Rusty’ Russell 

TRAVEL: FIJI 

There is a certain level of surfer who can ride that 

wave at 6-8 foot. Then you have days like the one 

when the Volcom Pro was called off. The waves 

were 20-30 foot with 50 foot faces and even Kelly 

Slater was sitting on the boat a little apprehensive. I 

think the size sorts out what ability you need. Check 

it out at www.youtube.com/watch?v=qEEG8J9Xaxs 

You still may get a few cowboys who just want to go 

out there and this is what they are trying to regulate. 

They want to ensure people have a clear understanding 

of what it takes to surf a break like this. 

Any regulation will be a work in progress because it 

is such a unique idea. It will be a while before you 

could sign off on any one rule. 

What are some of the positives regarding the 

opening up of Fiji’s surf breaks? 

For Australians - unless you managed to sneak a 

week in at Tavarua or scored a place through the 

lottery system, where surfers can get a chance to 

surf Tavarua on the Sunday after island guests have 

departed on the Saturday - it has been difficult for 

surfers to go there. 

It’s one of our closest big wave destinations to 

mainland Australia but has been dominated by the 

Americans. Forward bookings by US travel agents 

who represented Tavarua and Namotu made it 

near impossible for any Australians to access the 

surrounding breaks. 

With the Surfing Decree, Australians have the 

opportunity to surf the likes of world famous breaks 

such as Cloudbreak and Restaurants as well as 

many other Fiji surf breaks that in the past could 

only be surfed exclusively by guests staying at a 

particular resort. 

We have found there is now a substantial increase 

in surfers wanting to go to Fiji. In my eye that is a 

positive because it spreads out surfers outbound 

from Australia. Surfers aren’t just going to 

Indonesia, the Mentawais or the Maldives any 

more. They now have a South Pacific option that is 

just as consistent and as good as Indonesia. 

Aside from Tavarua and Namotu, Surf Travel Co. 

represents many others within Fiji. The Decree has 

opened up a lot of waves in Fiji that surfers simply 

don’t know about. And we are back on the search. 

We are researching new areas throughout Fiji. 

That’s exactly what the Surf Travel Co. is all about 

– bringing to light new and exciting destinations for 

surfers to experience. 

And the beauty about Fiji is that it caters for all 

budgets from the backpacker to five star luxury 

accommodation. 

Photo ‘Rusty’ Russell 


The Surf Travel Co. represents numerous resorts and 

charters throughout Fiji and are one of only three 

companies in the world that now represent Tavarua 

and Namotu resorts. For more info, see the website 

www.surftravel.com.au or call 02 9222 8870 

LEFT: There was no shortage of spectators 

during the recent Volcom Pro.

We have paved the way for 

Surf Travel over the past 

25 years and the future is here. 

NOW 

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surftravel.com.au is your directory to the best waves on the planet. 

The possibilities and destinations are endless. 

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Rehendhi Inn Surf Camp 

Maldives - Charters 

Maavahi 

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Sunset Queen 

Ocean Oasis 

Hope Cruiser 

Indonesia - Land 

Jakarta Hotels 

G-Land 

Bali Hotels 

Lombok Hotels 

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Taiwan 

Guided Tours 

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Talk to the experts. 

enquiries@surftravel.com.au 02 9222 8870 

Surf Travel Company 

1987 - 2012 

Celebrating 

25 years 

of 

Surf Travel

Jordan David and Guillaume 

Call are arguably New Cal’s best 

surfers. This is Jordan charging 

hard at Tenia. Photo Gill. 


TRAVEL: NEW CALEDONIA 

WORDS BY BEN HORVATH, 

COURTESY OF THE PERFECT WAVE TRAVEL EXPERIENCE 

WWW.THEPERFECTWAVE.COM.AU 

PHOTOS COURTESY OF CHABAUD GILL. 

Australian politicians of all ideological persuasions have been 

debating the merits or otherwise of the so-called ‘Pacific Solution’ for 

the best part of the last two decades in Australia. 

In case you’re not a follower of news and policy, the discussion has 

been an often heated argument about the humane implications of 

processing refugees offshore or in Australia. Whilst the refugee 

debate has received blanket coverage across many media forums, the 

prime ‘Pacific Solution’ I am putting forward is one of a completely 

different context, targeting Australian outbound surf tourists as 

opposed to inbound refugees. 

My ‘Pacific Solution’ suggestion will hopefully stimulate a more 

lighthearted, albeit slightly self-indulgent debate, bringing New 

Caledonia to the fore as a fresh alternative for Australian surf 

adventurers hunting down quality, uncrowded waves - a completely 

new surf travel experience. 

Coincidentally, New Caledonia shares some similar historic parallels 

with Australia. It was originally inhabited by indigenous Melanesians 

around 1500 to 2000 years ago. Europeans, The French in New 

Caledonia’s case, took possession of the island under Napoleon III 

in 1853. Cook had discovered it on his 1774 voyage and christened 


59

THIS PIC: Guillerme Cal ducking under the roof at 

Ouano left, and ACROSS: We only saw one other 

crew of surfers during our trip - some lads from 

Woonona, south of Sydney. They were really 

mellow, highly competent surfers. This is one of 

the boys getting shacked at Tenia. Photos Gill. 

the land ‘New Caledonia’. Some 

22,000 French convicts were sent 

there between 1864 and 1894. 

In 1894, French Governor Feillet 

turned the island into a voluntary 

immigration colony where, 

under contract, Malabar Indians, 

Vietnamese and Javanese 

workers arrived to provide 

labour for the first nickel mines. 

That period was responsible for 

the great ethnic diversity you 

will find in New Caledonia’s 

population today. 

Speaking for the affirmative in 

my surf-centric ‘Pacific Solution’ 

debate, the initial points I would 

make in New Caledonia’s favour 

are : 

• New Caledonia is only a short 

two to two and a half hour 

flight from Sydney or Brisbane. 

• It has a warm, temperate, sub 

tropical climate with water 

temps averaging 21-22 degrees 

during our winter. 

• It’s a western style island, yet 

you still experience a pleasant 

cultural hit with a potpourri 

of French speaking/ Euro 

and Melanesian locals with 

their different customs and 

language. 

• New Caledonia only has a 

population of 250,000. It boasts 

the largest lagoon in the world, 

surrounded by a 1,600 km 

coral reef. The surf, fishing, 

diving, wind and kite surfing 

possibilities are endless. 

• The classy capital city of 

Noumea is only 45 minutes 

from the international airport. 

You can stay a night or two in 

a slick hotel and do all your 

shopping or you can choose 

to depart on a surf catamaran 

charter the day you land. 

• There is no shortage of reef 

pass options all within a day 

or so travel by Catamaran. 

There are all sorts of nooks 

and crannies and reefs 

facing different directions to 

accommodate most wind and 

swell angles and variables. 

• The surf is quite consistent and 

generally uncrowded. 

• The fishing, diving and food are 

just insanely good. 

• The internet, mobile phone 

and general communications 

services are excellent. 

The only negatives I encountered 

or could envisage were that 

sometimes travel is a little slow 

on the Cat. The majority of surf 

breaks are reef passes on the 

outer atolls so they are exposed 

to any wind. Any breeze over 20 

knots can blow out the outside 

reefs and also make travelling to 

more protected options on the 

Cat a little uncomfortable. 

To combat those minor hassles 

you can choose to stay at land 

camps at Ouano or Nekweta. 

Both have numerous reef 

pass options less than a few 

kilometres offshore accessible by 

camp based speed boats. Both 

options have their pros and cons. 

My tip? Combine the two. 

Make your first few days or first 

week a boat trip on The Black 

Lion or Kuare and then settle 

at Ouano or Nekweta or both, 

for the remainder of your New 

Caledonian stay. 


TRAVEL: NEW CALEDONIA 

There are so many reef passes that work in such a variety of 

conditions in New Caledonia. If it gets real big there are even 

quality set ups inside the lagoon. That’s Dumbea Pass Left in the 

foreground, and Dumbea Pass Right in the background. These 

reefs are some of the closest to the capital Noumea. Photo Gill. 


61

Perhaps the most critical ingredients 

of our New Cal trip, without which 

we couldn’t possibly have expected 

to travel and access most of the reef 

passes - or indeed either surf camp 

- was hooking up with The Perfect 

Wave’s local guide Sebastian. 

Seb was our host, our cook and surf 

guide all rolled into one. He and 

his team (Manu, Pierre, Fabricio, 

Dominique and Gill all went out of 

their way to accommodate every little 

request our crew of six demanding 

average Aussie surfers – Jamie, Matt, 

Charlie, Josh, Ken and myself threw 

at them.) 

Our crew were probably more 

demanding than most, as all six of 

us work for The Perfect Wave Travel 

Experience and were effectively on an 

educational recon mission, sampling 

the waves, food and travelling 

conditions first hand so we can pass 

our knowledge onto all prospective 

individual clients. 

During autumn and winter in the the 

South Pacific, storms charging through 

the Roaring Forties push swells up 

through the Tasman and Coral Sea, 

directly towards the SW Pacific island 

of New Caledonia. 

Strong storm activity in the Southern 

Ocean extending into the Tasman Sea 

delivered a solid eight to ten foot SW 

swell to New Caledonia’s offshore 

reef passes during the second week in 

June, coinciding with our visit. It was 

the same swell that delivered fifteen 

foot plus Cloudbreak and eight foot 

Restaraunts during The Volcom Fiji 

Pro. The long 15 to 18 second swell 

period ensured the swell wrapped 

into all sorts of nooks, crannies and 

reef passes up and down the New 

Caledonian coast. 

Based on our experience, I strongly 

recommend you take a quiver of three 

boards - Your standard shortboard, 

a step up 6’3“ and a 6’8“ or 7’2“ to 

cope with the reef passes, open ocean 

power and long-period swells you will 

encounter. 

Open to swell from the Tasman and 

Coral seas, all of the surf spots are at 

least a few kilometres from land and 

so are well and truly at the mercy of 

local winds. 

New Caledonia can occasionally 

get a tad funky in winter with the 

predominant wind being SE. Most 

south-facing Pacific coasts are 

onshore or cross shore in these 

conditions. However most of the 

surfable reef passes on New 

Caledonia are on the west coast 

which means the majority of setups 

are offshore or at least side/offshore 

in SE trades - the same trades that 

effect SE Qld. 

This, combined with the fact that 

New Caledonia picks up mostly SW 

to SE swell makes it an awesome 

alternative for an uncrowded autumn/ 

winter surf trip. 

If New Caledonia sounds like your 

scene, go to www.theperfectwave. 

com.au and type your details on our 

enquiry page. One of the experienced 

surf consultants will be in touch to 

advise you about the trip of a lifetime. 

Alternately, call 02 9939 0890 and 

we will be able to connect you with 

Seb and even Gill if you wish to 

have your trip documented by a pro 

photographer. 

www.theperfectwave.com.au 

BEN HORVATH ON ONE OF THE MANY REASONS TO VISIT 

LEFT: Jamie Gray director of The Perfect Wave 

on a R&D mission at Tenia. 

BELOW: The Perfect Wave 

Sales Consultant Charlie Pierce out of the office and 

into the field researching what he sells with a solid hack at Tenia Left. Photos Gill. 


BUSINESS PROMOTION 

SHOW US YOUR BOAT 

The Perfect Wave Travel crew fresh out of Sydney and into a beer 

aboard The Black Lion as they depart Noumea Harbour on a work 

research mission. L-R Josh, Jamie, Ben, Charlie, Ken and Matt. 

Photo Gill. 

LEFT: Excuse the cliché. 

The Black Lion literally sailing 

off into the sunset New 

Caledonia style. 


Travel crew chilling out on 

deck. Photos Gill. 

WORDS BY BEN HORVATH. 

The boat we called home on the water in New 

Caledonia is The Black Lion - a slick 46 ft Bahia 

Catamaran from Fontaine Pajot with two double 

cabins with ensuite bathrooms and two twin cabins. 

She can comfortably cater for 8 passengers, but for 

an all-male charter surfing New Caledonia’s best reef 

passes as per the featured Perfect Wave Travel staff 

trip, you would be best advised to limit numbers to 

six, so each surfer gets their own bed. They have a 

Mac in the common area for multimedia purposes, so 

you can watch DVDs, videos and pictures of your trip, 

and listen to music. The cat is equipped with a sound 

system which allows you to switch on the music in 

either cabin, on the deck or in the common area. 

Captain Pierre and multi tasking chef and guide 

Sebastian both speak fluid French and English, and 

are mellow, educated and fun-loving. The food is 

an eclectic combo of seafood, salads and beef, the 

coffee’s awesome, and the beer and spirits free 

flowing. Catamarans are very stable, and most of the 

travelling is done inside the reef passes within the 

safety of the lagoon, so sea sickness is not an issue. 

Oh and did I mention the fishing is mind blowing, 

the scenery insane, the temperature just right, and 

the vibe so chilled. Lunchtime siestas on deck are a 

pre-requisite. 

To book a New Caledonian surf charter aboard The 

Black Lion log onto www.theperfectwave.com.au and 

list your details on the enquiry page and one of our 

trained professionals will help you arrange the trip of 

a lifetime. 


63

TRAVEL: BUSINESS PROFILE 


The Perfect Wave is a surf experience 

company with a pretty simple philosophy 

“To help surfers discover their perfect 

wave.” From isolated surf camps in Sumatra; 

to luxury launches in the Maldives, and 

Catamaran Surf tours in New Caledonia The 

Perfect Wave will get you there. They also 

know how to get you the best deal for your 

surf adventure and guarantee it with a ‘Best 

Price Guarantee.’ 

The staff at The Perfect Wave Surf 

Experience’s main goal is to give as many 

people as possible the chance to experience 

the same amazing adventures that they 

have been fortunate enough to experience 

themselves. 

Everyone idea of what the perfect wave is 

varies, so The Perfect Wave director Jamie 

Gray said, “Our motto is - Your search for the 

perfect wave. We help you find it.” 

Jamie also points out that there are 

misconceptions out there in the marketplace, 

the prime one being that booking a trip with 

a reputable full service travel specialist like 

The Perfect Wave is more expensive. Jamie 

said,” I can guarantee you it is not more 

expensive to book with The Perfect Wave. 

We will get you the best price and look 

after every little detail for you. The Perfect 

Wave have assembled a team with years 

of experience, knowledge and relationships 

with the best operators in the ultimate surf 

destinations all over the world.” 

For more about The Perfect Wave Travel 

Experience and their staff, visit 


ABOVE: The Perfect 

Wave staff at work 

outside their Brookvale 

HQ. Photo Joel 

Coleman. 

RIGHT: The Perfect 

Wave 

Marketing 

Manager Benny 

Horvath has spent most 

of his life in search 

of The Perfect Wave. 

Photo Bouma. 

LEFT: Bossman at The Perfect Wave, 

Jamie Gray, coming in from a sesh at 

Tenia stoked as. Photo Horvath 


staff. Boys 

on the juice at play on board The Black 

Lion in New Caledonia. Photo Gill. 

THIS PIC: This is the kind of 

experience that The Perfect 

Wave 

are constantly chasing. 

Guillaume Cal perfectly 

positioned on an insane day 

at Ouano in New Caledonia. 

Photo Gill. 

The Perfect Wave director Jamie Gray 


“We make surf travel easy for you... 

...and we guarantee the best price”. 

theperfectwave.com.au 1300 009 283 

Explore New Caledonia’s epic uncrowded reef passes on a catamaran. 


65

Takashi Yamada is a Japanese gentleman that has chosen his career well. 

Working for the Papua New Guinea Tourism 

office in Tokyo Japan, part of his job 

was the recent hard slog of joining fellow Japanese surfers on a trip to paradise - 

Vanimo in PNG. I believe they call it ‘research and development’ over there too... 

Thanks to Takashi, we have some amazing images to share with you as well as 

a unique perspective on this surfing paradise... It’s not just Aussie mates that 

travel in search of waves. Plus, we seem to have a soft spot for PNG in this 

magazine and this trip was just too good not to have in here. Enjoy. 

WORDS AND PHOTOS: TAKASHI YAMADA 

Japanese surfer 

Hideyoshi Tanaka 

makes the most of the 

sunlight in PNG 



67

Surfer: Yasushi”Tyron”Toyoda 

TRAVEL: PNG 

Surfer: Hideyoshi Tanaka 


Surfer: Taro Hirano 

Admiring the local handiwork 

in the shade cast by the coconut trees to 

hide from the blazing sun. 

Even though the offshore breeze gently 

brushes across my skin, sweat oozes out 

from my pores and I am reminded that I 

have come to a country between latitude 5 

and 12 in the South Pacific. 

This country is said to be the closest in the 

southern hemisphere to Japan, but it is 

completely different. In fact, the difference 

is overwhelming. 

I close my eyes and remember the 

landscape I saw during the flight from the 

capital, Port Moresby, to our destination, 

Vanimo. Deep shades of green filled 

my entire view. There’s no other way to 

describe this sight than as overgrown, 

dense “lushness.” Within this lushness, 

the coffee-coloured Sepik River zigzags 

like a serpent. You can imagine from 

seeing this terrain that the country is all 

tropical rain forests, high temperatures 

and humidity. 

It feels as if this landscape will remain 

unchanged even after five, ten, or a hundred 

years have passed. I don’t want this place 

to change. 


69

Get back 

to the roots... 

with paulownia 

Surfer: Eisuke Hirayama 

Our buoyant, 

lightweight timber floats 

all around the world. 

My face begins to bead with sweat. I open my eyes and get ready 

to go into the ocean. Wetsuits aren’t needed. A t-shirt, to prevent 

sunburn, is enough. As I paddle, I can see to the tips of my fingers 

even in the depths of the ocean because the thick, lukewarm 

seawater is so clear. 

• Tom Wegener preferred alaia blanks 

• Alaia & Kite Boards 

• Long Boards 

• Hollow Boards 

• Chambered Boards 

Surfer: Atsushi Sakai 

SURFBOARD SUPPLIES 

Mixed with the local surfers of Papua New Guinea at the lineup 

about 150m from the shore, I’m able to distinguish the members 

of this trip. Leading the crew is Hideyoshi Tanaka, the 2011 surfing 

champion of Japan followed by Taro Hirano, Taisei Sohn, Atsushi 

Sakai, Yasushi Toyoda, Eiji Yamamoto, and Eisuke Hirayama - a 

total of seven members. Hideyoshi Tanaka takes a nicely shaped 

right-hand wave from the deep position. 

Buy the Best Paulownia 

Timber 

Australia has to offer. 

Contact David Evans 

P: 03 9588 2533 

E: info.sales@paulowniasurfboardsupplies.com 

W: www.paulowniasurfboardsupplies.com 

TAKASHI YAMADA ON THE LOCALS 


Great surfing spots 

Melanesian hospitality 

for more iNformAtioN & reservAtioN PleAse coNtAct our reGistered surf trAvel AGeNts: 

AustrAliA & usA World surfAris pty ltd 

PO Box 180, Mooloolaba 

QLD 4558, Australia 

phone. (617) 5444 4011 

fax. (617) 5444 4911 

free call. 1800611 163 (Australia Only) 

email. info@worldsurfaris.com 

web. www.worldsurfaris.com 

Uncrowded world class waves 

SAPNG endorsed unique surf area management plans 

the Perfect WAve co. pty ltd 

Suite 38/42 - 46 Wattie Rd 

Brookvale, NSW Australia 

phone. 1300 00 Wave 

phone. +61 2 9939 0809 

fax. +61 2 9939 8390 

email. info@theperfectwave.com.au 

web. wwwtheperfectwave.com.au 

PNG JAPAN limited (JAPAN) 

phone. (675) 323 1321 / 323 2103 

fax. (675) 327 1828 

email. pngjapan.pom001@gmail.com 

web. www.png-japan.co.jp 

No limit AdveNtures ltd (euroPe) 

phone. +61 7 40 533 882 

fax. +61 437 933 381 

email. info@nolimitadventures.com.au 

web. www.nolimitadventures.com.au 

NiuGiNi holidAys 

Suit 103 

46A, Macleay Street 

Potts Point NSW 2011 Australia 

toll free. 1300 850 020 

sydney phone. 02 9290 2055 

brisbane phone. 07 3221 8897 

cairns phone. 07 4039 2251 

fax. 02 9267 6118 

email. info@@nghols.com 

or info@ngholidays.com 

web. www.nghols.com 

TA Lic No. nsw2ta5688 / Qld3074890 

reGistered lANd ANd seA bAsed oPerAtors: 

NusA islANd retreAt, NeW irelANd ProviNce 

email. nir@global.net.pg 

web. www.nusaislandretreat.com.pg 

PNG froNtier surfAris, NeW irelANd ProviNce 

email. pngsurfaris@global.net.pg 

web. www.pngsurfaris.com 

tuPirA surf club, uliNGAN bAy mAdANG ProviNce 

email. tupira.surfpng@gmail.com 

web. www.tupirasurfclub.com 

vANimo surf lodGe ltd – vANimo , sANdAuN 

ProviNce 

email. surfvanimo@bigpond.com 

rubio PlANtAtioN retreAt, NeW GuiNeA eco tours 

ltd, NeW irelANd ProviNce 

email. shaneclark@newirelandsurf.com 

web. www.newirelandsurf.com 

www.facebook.com/surfingpapuanewguinea 


71

is relatively small 

but the set is about overhead. Hideyoshi 

smoothly but powerfully leaves tracks on 

the face of the wave like a knife scoops 

butter and his sprays are occasionally sky 

high, demonstrating his surfing skills. The 

other six members are enjoying about 

100m of Vanimo’s main break at Lido Right. 

Like these surfers, the surfers of Papua 

New Guinea attempt manoeuvres off 

the lip and cutbacks. Although their 

surfing level is not at all high, they 

have extraordinary physical abilities, 

outstanding balance, and the way they 

actively copy other surfers’ moves will 

definitely make them better surfers in 

no time. On top of that, since the ocean 

is not crowded at all and they are free 

to enjoy every bit of the finest breaks, 

they are in an environment where they 

can improve their surfing abilities. They 

welcome us with smiles. Even though we 

enter the sea as visitors, we share the 

waves at a good pace. As for localism, 

there is nothing to quibble about. 

Besides Lido Right in Vanimo, there 

are also Mahema, Waromo, and Yako, 

with rights and lefts, waves fit for both 

beginners and advanced surfers. Surely this 

place must be a new paradise for surfers. 


A group of children approach me as I return 

from the ocean. Grinning, they try to tell me 

something by pointing fingers. I look in the 

direction they are pointing to and see the 

members of this trip surrounded by local 

children. I walk toward them wondering what 

was going on... Coconuts. The children have 

short knives attached to their waists. They 

have climbed the coconut trees with ease and 

harvested coconuts for us. 

The children crack open the coconuts with 

superb knife skills and then they tell me to drink 

the juice inside. My body, sunburnt and tired 

from surfing quickly absorbs the natural sports 

drink. They laugh joyfully when they see my 

delighted face. 

One day, we visited Waromo village and Yako 

village near the village we stayed at, Lido. The 

wind was not blowing preferably when we 

were there but when the conditions are right, 

good left-hand waves break at both Waromo 

and Yako. I peeked into the lifestyle of the 

villagers. It was as if time had stopped. The sea 

breeze softly blew through the village. Children 

popped their faces through the windows of the 

raised floor houses. Adults puffed cigarettes 

underneath the shades of the trees. 

This was a sight that could not be seen in a 

hectic city. As I was watching these villagers, a 

fundamental question crossed my mind, 

“What is happiness?” 


73

TRAVEL: PNG 

Surfer: Taisei Sohn 

from Taro 

Hirano’s blog which I found after 

returning home. 

“I want to engrave in my memory 

how the time passed by peacefully 

and how the eyes of the children 

who play in the abundant nature, 

filled with colors like a reference 

book on primary colors sparkled.” 

His description of Papua New 

Guinea says it all. 

Surfer: Eiji”Kotetsu”Yamamoto 

To find out more about surfing in 

PNG, check out the website: 

papuanewguineasurfing.com. 



75

TRAVEL: ROTE ISLAND 

Nembrala (T-land) is known as one of the longest 

and most consistent best lefts in Indonesia. 

There's around ten waves, including lefts and 

rights, to suit all levels of surfing from beginners 

to intermediates. The swell ranges between 4-8ft 

faces, getting over 15ft on occasion. 


To the southwest of the larger island of Timor lies Rote Island, the southernmost island 

of Indonesia. Sue Custer takes a trip with her husband Dave to discover not only strange 

beachgoers, but a slightly different Indonesian experience to the norm. 

WORDS & PHOTOS: SUE CUSTER, FREELINE INDONESIAN SURF ADVENTURES 

BELOW: (from left) Seaweed drying on the 

beach; Night markets; Anugrah Homestay; Porky 

takes a stroll; watching those magic barrels. 

An hour’s flight from Bali to Kupang brought us to 

the starting point for our Rote trip, and a pleasant 

surprise with the comfortable Krystal Hotel, located 

directly on the sea wall. The night markets were 

small but interesting, and in a town of not much to 

do, it was our entertainment. The locals eat here, 

and not much English - if any -is spoken, so a lot of 

pointing and guessing went to decide on the tasty 

treats on offer. 

Day two and we boarded the ferry for the two 

hour trip to the island of Rote, then drove one hour 

through very dry and sometimes barren landscape 

to the small, one-street town of Nembrala and to 

our accommodation at Anugrah Losmen (homestay). 

Anugrah is located directly on the beach front, with 

only five rows of perfectly lined palm trees between 

it and the beach – thatched, twin-bed bungalows, all 

with a simple en-suite. 

We arrived in time for lunch, and were fortunate 

enough to enjoy fresh tuna and mackerel sashimi. In 

tune with the open island setting, meals are taken in 

the large communal eating area. During the course 

of my stay I realised this was by far the healthiest 

I had ever eaten, on any trip, to any country, and 

I have been to six of seven continents. Breakfast 

included a bowl of fresh fruit salad, a pancake, toast 

and egg. Lunch was often fish and two salads. And 

dinner: soup, chicken or meat with two vegetables, 

a salad and dessert (when I could fit it in). The TV in 

the eating area was the perfect day’s finish for any 

surfing AFL enthusiasts, with games televised. For the 

non-sporting fans, there was also a range of DVDs. 

T-land is the break located directly out the front of the 

losmen, and with two boat transfers per day included 

in our trip, we had the option of relaxing on the 

losmen’s wooden beach chairs or under the pergola, 

and picking the time of day for a surf, depending on 

wave size and numbers in the line-up. This also was 

our sunset viewing spot. The beach faces west so the 

sunsets over the water are as colourful and varied as 

they are stunning. 

The wind picked up on some of the days and with 

it, the heat. This gave the opportunity to find a 

comfortable shady spot for relaxation or people 

watch all the goings-on along the seafront. Another 

non-surfing activity I was happy to jump into was 

snorkelling, as the coral directly out the front of the 

losmen has fantastic opportunities. I found resident 

‘Nemos’ – the clownfish – as well as lionfish, sea 

stars, and many other beautiful and unusual coral 

creatures just 20 metres off the waters edge. We 

were advised to line up our spots to avoid the 

seaweed bouys – aka soft drink bottles. Nembrala 

seems to be the country’s seaweed growing capital, 

with many locals working from dawn to dusk, 

planting, harvesting, drying and finally carrying it 

away in palm baskets. 

Nembrala must also be the ‘pigs on the beach’ capital 

of the world. Massive males, pregnant mums and tiny 

piglets were all out in force at dawn, nuzzling along 

the sand and creating snail-like trails as far as the 

eye could see. Pigs and dogs contentedly fossicked 

side by side through the wet sand. I was engrossed in 

watching this strange parade of pigs, dogs, surfers, 

seaweed people and colourful fishing canoes getting 

about their business set to the beautiful backdrop of 

the blues, greens, whites of the ocean, palm trees 

and sand. It was difficult to have a photo-free day. 

Rote is a mainly Christian island, and as such is quite 

different to the atmosphere on other Indonesian 

Muslim islands. Females can feel quite comfortable 

swimming, or walking down the main street in shorts. 

The main form of transport is moped or motorbike. 

Town is quiet, and can easily be walked. Doing this 

had us meeting so many friendly people - there was 

a lot of waving going on, and we constantly heard 

“Hello Mr, Hello Mrs” from passers by, or even from 

doorways way out of sight. 

Tuesday morning was market day and we’re glad we 

set the time aside to visit. The place was alive with 

people peddling amazing fruit and veg, homemade 

pastries, everyday household items and clothing. 

Shopping aside, it was fantastic for the peoplewatching 

and colours alone! 

The other main event on Rote takes place every 

Sunday morning. Children and adults dress in the 

Sunday best and head off in all directions to church 

services. Singing can be heard from halls and 

churches. Even the shops shut. Everyone is at church. 

One place we recommend visiting is the Bakery – the 

only bakery I’ve known that has no advertising other 

- than a tiny sign at the side of their house - and 

even more strangely doesn’t have any baked goods 

to display. You just order off a list – from doughnuts 

to banana, coconut or chocolate cake and more. You 

just write your name and when you want to pick it up. 

When we went to pick up ours, it was so warm it felt 

like it would melt the bag! Just delicious. All word of 

mouth, and easily the busiest ‘business’ in town. 

Our trip to Rote was an amazingly laid back 

experience and we were very sad to go. A word of 

advice - do not plan to leave the island on a Sunday! 

People visit each other on Sundays, so with double 

the amount of people, motorbikes and chickens 

to unload and load, the ferry seems to ignore the 

‘schedule’. You wouldn’t want to miss your departing 

flight! Or maybe you would, and stay back for another 

few days. 

If this chilled trip sounds like the perfect antidote to 

the rush of everyday life, Freeline Indonesian Surf 

Adventures do both land based and boat trips to the 

island and would be happy to have you along. 

For details see: www.freelinesurf.com.au/surf-roti.htm and 

www.freelinesurf.com.au/surf-rote-anugrah-homestay.htm 


77

TRAVEL: PERU 

After reading the article by saltmotion’s Joel Coleman about his trip to South America a few editions back, we were 

convinced that the continent was very much on our visit wishlist. To find out a bit more about another South American surf 

destination, we asked Oscar Corzano of Peru Aventura to tell us a little about what to expect from one of their trips. 

WORDS AND PHOTOS: OSCAR CORZANO, PERU AVENTURA 

“Surfing in Peru is definitely going 

to be a unique surf experience. 

Coming from Australia, you will find 

a completely different landscape 

from what you see here and the 

Pacific islands. The surf is very 

consistent and the quality of 

waves are world class. 

“Peru has everything: point breaks, 

beach breaks, rock reefs, barrels, 

long waves rights and lefts. There 

are waves of all sizes, for all levels of 

surfing and it’s on all year round. 

“The water temperature depending 

on area changes. In summertime you 

will be able to surf in boardshorts 

further north in Peru, or in a 3/2 

wetsuit down south. In winter it’s 

best to wear a 4/3 to stay warm as 

temperatures drop to 14-12˚ Celcius. 

Some areas like Chicama and Lobitos 

can get very windy and even a bit 

chilly on a summer afternoon. 

“Winter (April to October) brings the 

south swells which usually hit the 

coast of Peru with power, shaping 

amazingly solid waves. Depending 

on the location, you should be able 

to find 3-6 foot in a small to medium 

swell and 10-15 foot waves on a big 

swell. And it gets bigger in some 

spots if you’re looking for a highadrenaline 

surf. It’s recommended to 

bring shortboards and guns for the 

advanced surfers. 

“In summer (December to March) the 

predominant swell comes from the 

north. Hitting with lots of power 

especially on the north coast of Peru. 

This area is mostly right-handers and 

barrels. Central and South coast of 

Peru are not as consistent as in winter 

but you’ll get to find good waves for 

sure.There’s also some beach breaks 

that work well with north swells in 

central Peru and the Lima area. 

“Our surf trips mix waves with 

history. While surfari-ing we will 

stop and enjoy a few pre-Incan and 

Incan monuments and museums 

like Pachacamac Fortress in Lima, 

Caral Pyramids in northern Lima, 

Chan Chan in Trujillo and Mr Sipan 

museum in Lambayeque. After our 

surf trip is finished you’ll have an idea 


OSCAR OFFERS A FEW VERY 

COMPELLING REASONS TO VISIT 

of Peru’s history and culture. (Tickets 

to monuments and museums are not 

included in the price.) 

“Our guides are always the most 

experienced in their fields. Felipe 

Calle, our surf guide, is a naturalfooter 

from Peru and has great 

knowledge of the surf conditions. 

He studied a university degree on 

the Gold Coast, where he was part 

of the surf lifesaving team. Felipe 

speaks fluent english and is always 

keen to go surfing - definitely a 

Peruvian waterman. 

“Our trips are basically custom 

made. We do one week, ten day, two 

week and three week adventures... 

Or as many days you like. The price 

includes all accommodation during the 

adventure, all breakfasts (continental), 

Lima airport pickup, all transport 

(private) to beach breaks and back, 

your guide, leader and lots of fun. 

The transport that we normally use 

is a H1 Hyundai 12-seater van as the 

minimum group number to travel is 4 

people. The bigger the group the less 

expensive the price. 

“All accommodation is based on 

double rooms. If it happens that 

someone requests a single room then 

we can do that (fees apply). 

Peru surf trips and adventures 

are suitable for singles, couples and 

whoever is keen to explore Peru, but for 

the hiking adventures, we recommend 

you have a certain level of fitness. 

“Accommodation for our surftrips 

is always as close to the beach 

as possible, 1-2 stars and clean, 

comfortable and safe. 

“Peru in general is a very consistent 

place wave wise and there will always 

be a good, uncrowded spot to surf. 

Sounds like a cracker for the 

adventurous soul! For more 

information on visiting, please see 

www.peru-aventura.com 


79

PHOTOS: SUPPLIED BY HUEY SURF CHARTERS 

For most of us, there’s not really a 

question of whether you’d like to go 

to the Mentawais or not. This chain 

of lush, tropical islands with an 

uncountable number of world class 

waves in pristine lukewarm water 

is what surfer’s dreams are made 

of. The equatorial doldrums (calm 

prevailing winds) mean that most 

days here, the water is like sheet 

glass. The question is then, ‘How?’ 

Huey Surf Charters is one way. 

Huey’s an eighty-two foot ex- 

Japanese customs vessel, so you 

can gather it’s bloody quick. It has 

been customised for surf charters 

and the vessel has undergone 

constant upgrading, recently 

jumping up a class while still 

maintaining an affordable price. 

Below deck there’s three airconditioned 

sleeping cabins, plus 

a dedicated TV room with full 

surround sound, satellite TV and an 

800-movie library. 

Steve, (aka Sooly) is the owner 

of Huey and captain, host and 

surf guide. He’s been travelling 

Indonesia for some twenty years. 

Amril is Huey’s Indonesian Captain 

- a born and bred Padang local 

who also has over twenty years 

experience at sea. He’s been with 

Huey since 2002 and knows these 

waters well. Khairul is the chef who 

has been on board since 2000. Arry, 

the kitchen hand and maintenance 

man, has been with Huey since 

2007 as has Amon, the youngest 

member of the five man team. He 

has completed 2 levels of schooling 

and will become a fully qualified 

Captain within the next 2 years. 

All five crew members are certified 

with Seacom, Indonesia’s Governing 

body for ocean going vessels. 

Huey Surf Charters go for ten days 

and eleven nights leaving Padang 

around 9pm and arriving in the 

islands at dawn the following 

morning. The boat travels mostly at 

night so as not to waste valuable 

surf time. 

The Mentawai Islands are known 

to offer some of the best and most 

consistent waves in the world 

and Huey Surf Charters has been 

operating in these waters since 

1999, providing surfers with a variety 

of waves to suit all ability levels. 

Huey 1 with, BELOW: a 

view of the dedicated TV 

room and the deck area for 

relaxing between sessions. 


TRAVEL: SHOW US YOUR BOAT 

The above deck dining area provides 

you with full views of the surf, so 

you can recount your surfing heroics 

over a meal, or lounge around in the 

shaded front deck with a book or a 

couple of drinks. 

The five crew have a combined total 

of forty-two years working on this 

boat so they know how it works. 

For more information on Huey Surf Charters and the Huey 1 as well 

as schedules and bookings, visit the website at www.huey.com.au. 

Alternately, email surfcharter@gmail.com or call +62 811 661 4839 


81

Working overseas in Brunei, Sunshine Coast surfer Malcolm Oosterbeek was happy to discover 

he didn’t have to miss out on too much surf. In fact he’s got more than he bargained for. 

WORDS AND PHOTOS: MALCOLM OOSTERBEEK 

When I decided to take up a two year teaching contract in 

Brunei I had come to terms with the fact I would be kissing 

goodbye to the coastal surfing life I had on the Sunshine 

Coast. I had heard rumors that Brunei had (some) surf. I 

even found some footage on You Tube, but I assumed this 

was a freak occurrence. How wrong I was! 

For the last year and a half Brunei has been home to my 

wife Lyssa and myself, and let me tell you, I‘ve surfed more 

in that time than I did living on the Sunshine Coast QLD. 

Quick Info - Brunei is not Dubai, there are no camels or 

desert. Forgive me if your geography is great, but most 

people ask me how I am going in the desert. Brunei is 70% 

jungle that meets the coastline and is situated in Borneo, 

with a quick step to enter Malaysia. It faces Vietnam across 

the South China Sea. Brunei Darussalam (The Abode of 

Peace) is its full name. It is an oil-wealthy country and 

being tropical and steamy hot, there’s no need for any 

wetsuits or rubber. 

Brunei is a Malay Islamic monarchy which has a low 

population of less than 400,000. The Sultan is the King, 

and is one of the richest men in the world, said to be worth 

US$55 Billion. He supposedly has a car collection worth 

US$4 Billion alone. 

The waves are seasonal, but come August, things change 

here dramatically. Most swells are from 1-3 foot with the odd 

bigger day. Come December, the surf can be very consistent 

and you can find yourself hoping for one flat day to rest the 

weary body. But, given the seasonal nature, it would be a 

crime not to keep going. To make things better... we only 

work half a day here. My shift starts at 1.00pm and finishes 

at 5.30pm. And that leaves plenty of time to take in the swell. 

If you see that the Philippines and Vietnam are unfortunately 

getting hammered by a typhoon Brunei will be getting some 

epic waves. Unfortunately for typhoon affected areas this lasts 

for a good five months. 

The water in Brunei is chocolate brown due to the 

tannins and jungle run-off. It contains a lot of silt and 

debris. The only real pest is the occasional croc, but 

locals assure me they’re only near the river mouths. My 

eyes still wander when in the line up though! Driving 

down the highway the beach is not obvious till you turn 

off, drive down a gravel road through dense jungle and 

then it clears as it hits the coastline. 

Sadly, most beaches are littered with rubbish. It makes one 

realise how important educating our generations about the 

environment is. Unfortunately this message doesn’t seem to 

be conveyed here to all. 

As far as the waves go, they are short and wedge-like, 

generally running off man-made groynes - I still can’t work 

out who put them there though, or why. The waves are 

punchy and steep at low tide and very workable at high 

tide. Given the right swell it can get quite heavy. I definitely 

know that! 

The surf culture is growing quickly here with locals, but 

is still mainly expats who are teachers or Shell 

workers. 

I would say our community consists of about 25 surfers. 

I only really ever see five of them at one particular time. 

Any more than five of us out is a rarity so competition for 

waves can be non-existent. The locals that do surf are still 

enjoying learning from us. 

A friend of mine here is still waiting for the right sized and 

angled swell for a mythical sand and rock point up the road 

to break at a decent six foot with endless lefts. I’m yet to 

believe this... 

All in all, the season may only last five months 

maximum, but the extra time you get here due to lower 

work commitments and fewer surfers presents one surfpacked 

period. 

To top it all off Indonesia and Mentawais are a stone 

throw away and very cheap. I have just booked tickets to 

Mentawais for $85 AUS. It pays to know the locals here 

too, because most of them have housing in places like 

Mentawais. 

Anyway, when my contract ends here I’m sure I will be 

stoked to leave my tax free earnings, return to the Sunshine 

Coast and share the surf with my fellow Australian surfers, 

who no doubt will be calling me into any wave I like? 


MAIN: Mal makes a meal of some chunky brown 

FAR LEFT: Enough power to go airborne 

LEFT: Strange groynes and chocolate shakes 


83


www.deweyweber.com.au


Over a few beers in Arugam Bay, Sri Lanka, Victorian surfer Jules Tehan and mates Ofer and Chris 

had a flash of inspiration… Could it be possible to explore the Maldives on the cheap – not to do 

it by a surf boat or luxury resort – but to stay on local islands, eat local and get around on local 

ferries? There’d be no surf safari boat, no luxury resort and no guidebook - just have to fly into 

Male and figure it out from there. The plan was to score world-class waves while travelling on a 

tight-arse budget. Using the powerful logic a dozen beers creates, the three concluded there was 

only one way to find out. WORDS AND PHOTOS: JULES TEHAN 

We stepped out onto the tarmac a week later and 

were greeted by the neon lights welcoming us 

to the Male International Airport, our naive idea 

quickly started to become reality. 

Male is the capital and the primary transport hub. 

It’s a cosmopolitan city covering the entire 2km by 

3km island, where the call to prayer is easily heard 

over the whole island. For most visitors it’s just a 

meeting point for their resort transfer. There’s one 

main break and nearby Villingilli Island also works 

on a big swell. With 1-2 foot closeouts, neither 

option seemed appealing, so it was time to move. 

After scanning and comparing maps to get our next 

destination, we heeded local advice and headed 

south to Guridhoo Island, as it looked likely to have 

three accessible breaks: Riptide at the west end of 

the island which breaks with most swells, holding 

up to 10ft; the very racy hollow left-hander of Foxy’s 

that breaks over a super shallow reef; and the 

shallow, fast, right-hand barrelling reef break on the 

other side of the neighbouring island of Kandooma. 

We boarded the old wooden ferry heading to 

Guridhoo and stowed our boards amongst shopping 

bags, boxes of fresh fruit, fresh bread, pieces of 

furniture, motor scooters and random household 

items of mops, brooms, lights and a new fridge. 

Local families on board watched us quietly but 

curiously. The ferry headed south from the aquagreen 

waters of the Male dock and in no time we 

were passing by luxury resort wooden huts nestled 

together over lagoons. Dolphins drifted by in the 

distance and flying fish continuously leapt out of the 

way of our slow noisy vessel. 

Word must have spread quickly of our pending 

arrival because Amman - a short, thin wiry 

local fisherman, father of eight and man-abouttown 

– was there to greet us at the dock. He’d 

taken the liberty of waiting to show us all of our 

accommodation options on his island. Little did we 

know that Amman, his thirteen brothers and their 

wives and families, made up the vast majority of the 

island’s population and had good reason to know 

exactly what our options were. 

We scouted the small tropical island made up of dirt 

roads, brightly painted concrete houses and narrow 

streets occupied only by pedestrian traffic, and 

quickly settled on the empty surf-camp style local 

hostel that was easily within the realms of budget 

accommodation. 

First thing next morning we set off to check the 

offerings of Riptide. Breaking over an isolated 

reef some 500m off the island, it is reached by 

walking first across a shallow sandy reef, paddling 

out over a narrow deep channel, and then into 

the break. We reached it in ten minutes to find an 

empty break made up of 3-4ft right-handers peeling 

inconsistently across the reef. Added to this was 

the discovery of aquamarine water so clear the reef 

itself, the colour of its coral and the bright tropical 

fish only metres below, were clearly visible while 

sitting out the back. We savoured it all morning, 

with the only interruption being a pod of some 200 

dolphins passing through the channel we had just 

crossed earlier. 

Riptide provided a mixture of waves over the next 

few days, shared with the occasional passing surf 

boat. We still needed to get access to Kandooma 

Right though. It is situated on the opposite side of 

the neighbouring Kandooma Resort island, which 

is separated from Guridhoo by a shallow channel 

20m wide. Relying on complete naivety and some 

gall, we paddled straight across the channel and 

attempted to sneak straight across the resort island 

to the break. But in less than a minute we were 

confronted by at least four island security guards. 

No powers of persuasion would convince them to 

change their minds, and sent us straight back across 

to our island. 

The next logical step was to negotiate a ride with 

local fisherman, but this was becoming as complex 

as the Middle East peace negotiations and was 

ridiculously priced for the distance involved. So 

with a mild dose of dengue fever putting Ofer 

out of action, Chris and I decided we’d paddle to 

Kandooma Right. 


85

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Leaving the north end of the island, we paddled 

past the resort pool (it’s wooden jetty used for 

guest boat trips) past the day trip boats moored 

nearby, and around the western end of Kandooma 

Resort island. All the while we were being 

tracked by security guards in starched white 

resort wear and carrying hand-held radios. 

As we rounded the corner, into view came the 

perfectly peeling 4-6ft right-hand, barrelling 

waves we’d read about. With only five people 

out, and light offshore winds, there were plenty 

of waves to go around. In no time we were in 

the line-up, paddling into the fast, zippy, hollow 

waves that broke over the shallow reef and 

into the rocky beach on the banks of the island. 

Occasionally, Chinese tourists watched from the 

balconies of their luxury bungalows, snapping 

photos and pointing, as we surfed wave after 

wave until sundown. 

The swell over the next three weeks remained 

consistent, offering morning sessions at Riptide 

and afternoon sessions on Kandooma. These 

were shared with nearby resort tourists or the 

occasional surf boat, with crowds either nonexistent 

or super low. Combined with turquoise 

water so clear you could see coral formations 

below with bright green coral trout, yellow 

darting butterfly fish, black clown triggerfish 

drifting below, and almost daily visits by turtles 

or dolphins. We had found ourselves in a tropical 

surf heaven while living on a shoestring. 

The local island residents made us very welcome, 

curious about the foreign surfers that were still on 

the island after nearly a month. Out of the water, 

entertainment was very simple. The one main 

street was the social hub where we’d laze with 

locals in Maldivian hammock chairs, listening 

to the dreams of local Bangladeshi workers or 

to “Aunty” chatter away between her hookah 

pipe puffs. The two local restaurants were our 

mainstays for all things tuna and rice. Our cricket 

skills were tested with the local Bangladeshi boat 

builders. Fishing with local kids, by hand, saw 

us catching fish regarded at home as ‘exotics.’ 

Fridays served up the obscure sport of bashi 

which involved local women of opposing teams 

individually belting tennis balls at each other 

in rapid succession while gaining points for 

the number of balls caught during the fire fight 

(they’re confident it’ll be an Olympic sport one 

day). As a conservative Muslim nation, drinking on 

local islands is illegal, so the nightlife was kept to 

a minimum. 

A month passed quickly and it was time to 

move on. One option was to travel into the 

Southern Atoll region by ferry. This required an 

overnight ferry ride of fourteen hours, but couldn’t 

guarantee an island with easy access to nearby 

surf breaks. The other obvious alternative was 

just north of Male. 

We settled on Thulusdoo Island, three hours north 

of Male and nestled amongst the chain of surf 

breaks popular with the majority of surf boats 

operating in the Maldives. Importantly, it is home 

to the fast, consistent, right-hand reef break of 

Cokes, which captures most of the southerly swell 

and can be easily accessed from the island. It’s 

regarded by some as the heaviest wave in the 

Maldives, with a steep take-off and good barrel 

opportunities. 

With a two month visa extension, we trawled 

on another slow, noisy public ferry ride up into 

the northern region of the Kaafu Atoll and past 

the well known breaks of Jails, Honkys, Sultans, 

and Pasta Point. Arriving on the larger island of 

Thulasdoo island we adopted the same approach 

of wandering the island to seek local advice 

on accommodation. With a thousand residents 

and the Coca Cola factory on the island, options 

quickly came available. These included a small 

local hostel, two new surf camps, and local 

homestays. We settled on a local two-bedroom 

house seconds from the surf break that was 

within budget-traveller limits. 

The main break of Cokes was easily accessed 

from the island. A short walk across a tidalchannel, 

a quick duck through the short mangrove 

trees and we were standing at the reef. We were 

munching on long 3-4 footers that had more 

punch than a Collingwood boxing bag. It remained 

consistent for the next two weeks, offering 


Ofer carving at Cokes 

morning and afternoon sessions, providing the strong current running 

briefly each day wasn’t making it impossible to sit on the take off. These 

waves were shared with local kids, surf camp residents and visiting surf 

safari boats. 

Two weeks in, a powerful southerly swell made its way up from South 

Africa and turned it on. Pumping through 6-8 foot sets with fast, powerful 

waves, solid stand up barrels and near vertical take-offs, the crowds were 

quickly reduced. We quickly discovered this also set a test of judgement. 

Time it well, and we were out the back in minutes and looking back onto a 

palm tree spotted tropical island. Time it badly and our paddle out quickly 

trebled in length, as we were washed down the reef on the inside, coping 

set after set on the head. 

Given the surf conditions we were experiencing and budget we were 

living on, we quickly concluded the Maldives is set to experience a 

surge in independent surfers seeking longer periods of stay. A number of 

considerations will influence those travelling there though. The first is that 

alcohol is strictly not permitted on any non-resort islands due to Islamic 

law. This limits the appeal to the surfing contingent demanding post-surf 

partying on their trip. Added to this is the modesty of dress Islamic law 

encourages. So nude or topless sun baking is prohibited everywhere in 

the Maldives. Likewise, homosexuality is against the law and if you’re 

convicted, you may face lengthy prison sentences, fines, deportation or - if 

you’re a born-again same-sex naturist couple - all three. In addition, few 

local residents eat in the local restaurants on the islands. This makes food 

options limited and repetitive. 

Admittedly it was only having three options for dinner every night - fried 

rice, fried noodles, or the same curry and rice - that encouraged my 

departure. 

So after two months, it was time for myself and Chris to leave the 

Maldives in search of new food and a cold beer. The Maldives had 

delivered far more than we ever expected – amazing surf that lived up to 

its reputation, easily affordable travel options, and a new adventure. It’s 

likely to experience changes over the next few years as word filters out, 

but so many local islands remain unspoilt by mainstream tourism that 

there are likely to be many more to explore for quality waves. 

Some things just 

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PLEASE NOTE: You can’t just rock up the Maldives with no plan, as their tourist 

industry is well regulated. Accommodation that Jules and friends stayed in were 

all official resorts and homestays, and they had appropriate permissions to visit the 

places they did. In certain areas in the Maldives, interaction between locals and 

tourists is frowned upon, so make sure you do your homework, or simply talk to one 

of the travel companies servicing the area to make sure you stay out of trouble. 


87

A North Island Kiwi lets us in on his summer job. 

WORDS AND PHOTOS: SIMON EGGINTON 

MAIN: Simon getting his 

surfing fix on land on his 

Smoothstar skateboard. 

ABOVE: Hard at work back 

home in Tutukaka NZ. 

LEFT AND BELOW: The 

smiles and thrill of learning. 

It’s been a very busy few months leading up to this point but as the New 

Zealand winter sets in, my surf school in Tutukaka slows down to only a few 

lessons every couple of weeks. 

With the onset of colder weather, my brother and I board a flight in pursuit of the 

sun – destination, Holland, with a slight detour to Hong Kong. We planned a few 

days in the ridiculous humidity of the city for a bit of sight seeing and skating. 

This will be my ninth trip to Holland since first coming here in 1985 as a snotnosed 

four-year-old to visit my mother’s side of the family. Following that trip, 

it was another ten years before I returned in 1995. At that stage I was fourteen 

and being a mad-keen little grommet from Sandy Bay on the Tutukaka Coast of 

NZ, I always had surf on my mind. 

It was during this trip that we went on a family outing to a place called 

Scheveningen and sat on the harbour wall eating Haring and Parling (sprats - a 

species of herring - and eels), which is traditional Dutch seafood fare. It sounds 

gross, but in actual fact is pretty good and must be tried. It was there I noticed a 

few little waves peeling down the beach. There were only a few guys. It had me 

thinking: “If only I had my board, I would so be out there.” 

Holland may not particularly known as a surf destination, but seeing surfers 

there that time always stuck with me. After another short trip there for the 

millennium, I moved to Holland in 2001 and stayed until 2006. I saw the 

popularity of surfing grow during those five years. 

Now I’m back again. Having returned for the summer months, working on the 

beach as a surf coach at Surfles.nl run by Hans van den Broek, it’s amazing to 

see how busy the surf schools are here now. The swell might not be as big or 

good as back home in NZ, but the stoke the students get from learning to stand 

up for the first time is exactly the same. It goes to show that it doesn’t matter 

where in the world you are, all you need is a few fun waves to get hooked by 

the bug that is surfing. 

In fact, just before I wrote this story, I was surfing down at Scheveningen for the 

last four hours in some very fun little two foot, clean waves. Walking back up 

the beach to Surfles.nl 

the surf classes were getting ready to hit the waves and 

there were so many huge smiles on the faces of the people returning for their 

next lesson. 

Holland and New Zealand in a geographic sense couldn’t be further apart, and 

the lifestyle is quite different, but I still get the same stoke surfing here as I do 

back at Sandy Bay. That is, apart from when I take a surf trip to Shipwreck Bay, 

but that’s another story... 

Simon Egginton has his own surf school called Tutukaka Surf Experience 

near 

the top end of the New Zealand North Island, not far from the Bay of Islands. 

www.tutukakasurf.co.nz 


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89

Exceptionally keen surfer, home board 

builder and luckily for us - smorgasboarder 

reader - Mike Roberson was kind enough to 

let us into his life surfing the Great Lakes in 

the United States of America. 

WORDS & PHOTOS: MIKE ROBERSON 

TOP: Surfing Mike’s homebreak of Grand Haven takes a lot 

of love and a plenty of rubber. 

ABOVE: Mike with one of his personal surfboard creations 


California has long been the hotbed of surfing in North 

America and the East Coast has many decent breaks too. 

Unfortunately, I live over a 1000km from either ocean, yet I 

am a surfer. I am one of the fortunate few that surf America’s 

third coast - the waves that break along the shores of the 

Great Lakes. 

The Great Lakes are a chain of five large bodies of fresh 

water located in the Midwest part of the United States. But 

these are no ordinary lakes. They are hundreds of kilometres 

long and wide and have a total combined coastline of over 

17,000km with waves just waiting to be surfed. 

I live in Grand Haven, Michigan - a quaint tourist town on the 

eastern shore of Lake Michigan. Grand Haven is a popular 

vacation spot known for its beautiful beaches and is quite 

possibly the birthplace of lake surfing. People first started 

surfing in Grand Haven as early as the 1940’s with a growth 

in popularity in the 1960’s that continues today. 

People are often surprised to hear that it is possible to surf 

the lakes, but due to their large size we do occasionally get 

pretty decent surf. In an average year there are over 100 

surfable days. Of those, about 30 days would be considered 

very good and about 15 days of excellent surf. Most days it 

is knee to waist high, but occasionally we have chest high or 

bigger surf.

Unfortunately, offshore and glassy is not a regular part of our 

vocabulary. Our biggest surf is generated by strong onshore 

winds, which creates blown out disorganized surf… But we 

still occasionally go out because it’s big! Our cleanest and 

smallest surf occurs with a strong wind blowing the length 

of the lake parallel to the shoreline forcing waves to wrap 

around a pier. The best surf is when the wind blows at about 

a 45 degree angle to the beach which produces a decent size 

wave that is cleaned up by a pier or jetty sticking out into the 

lake, creating a mini point break. 

Another issue is our best surf usually occurs in the fall and 

early winter. While you can occasionally surf in trunks with 

warm and sunny conditions in the summer, in most cases we 

surf on what most people would consider non-beach days. 

The best waves typically occur on cloudy, cold gray days with 

rain or snow requiring a wetsuit up to 6mm thick by winter. 

Because waves are wind generated on a relatively small body 

of water, our waves tend to break very close together with 

some inconsistency. A seven second period would be about 

the best you can hope for with most days closer to 4 or 5 

seconds, which can make paddling out a real challenge. Most 

people prefer to surf along the backside of a pier or jetty that 

blocks and aligns the waves, while creating a bit of a calm 

area for paddling out. 

Sounds tempting, doesn’t it? Cold water, cold air, wind-blown 

onshore surf while fighting for your life just to get out. Believe 

me, it’s not as bad as it sounds. Actually, it’s pretty darn good. 

There are no crowds. Best estimates put the number of 

surfers in the Great Lakes Region at around 500. That means 

there is a lot of coastline for everyone. An average day will 

have only 4 or 5 guys in the water, on a crowded day there 

maybe as many as 10 surfers sharing a long beach break with 

many peaks. On about half my surfing days, it’s just my buddy 

Derek and me with the waves all to ourselves. 

There are no contests or competitions. I have to believe 

surfing the lakes is closer to the true roots of surfing. 

People surf for the pure pleasure of riding waves. They 

simply enjoy being in the water and being in harmony with 

nature. As a result, you have a real sense of community 

among lake surfers with virtually no localism. In most cases, 

people welcome your company and are eager to share their 

knowledge. 

There are no sharks! No one has ever been attacked or killed 

by a shark or stung by a ray or jellyfish. The Great Lakes 

have been called sweet water seas. One of the real treats of 

surfing the Great Lakes is the freshwater. There is no salty 

taste in your mouth, residue on your wetsuit or the critters 

that live in the ocean. It gives you a real peace of mind 

knowing as you enter the water that your surfboard is the 

most dangerous thing in the water. 

While I love to watch videos of perfect waves in tropical 

locations in hopes of visiting someday, I feel very fortunate 

to be a part of a community of surfers that truly appreciates 

the experience and are passionate about surfing regardless 

of the quality of surf. Every so often, however, it all comes 

together and we have near perfect waves with warm water 

on a beautiful summer day. When this occurs we realise 

how truly fortunate we are to be able to surf these amazing 

freshwater seas. 

Find out more about Great Lake Surfing 

GRAND HAVEN SURF CAM 

Website for webcam at my local break 

http://surfgrandhaven.com/cms/ 

UNSALTED 

The trailer for Unsalted, a movie about lake surfing. 

www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tl4f3JlWdHQ 

THIRD COAST SURF SHOP 

A local surf shop with a photo section and forum 

will give you a feel for what it is like on the lakes. 

www.thirdcoastsurfshop.com 


91

OUTHERN 

OMFORT 

WETSUITS, JETSKIS AND FROSTBITE 

It takes a whole heap of dedication to get great surf shots. Forget the preparation, equipment, 

training, study - those perfect tropical down-the-line shots mean a whole lot of swimming and timing 

a brilliant beachie barrel snap means putting your body and gear on the line... But add in ice-cold 

water, gigantic waves and even snow on the beach and the game steps up a few extra notches. 

On our recent journey of discovery through NZ our last stop was the city of Dunedin, all the way 

down on the South Island. Between seeing amazing sites and getting great waves in the cold water, 

Graham Carse of Quarry Beach Surfboards introduced us to the unbelievable work of an extremely 

dedicated local photographer Mark Stevenson, better known as StevO. Armed with a camera and 

jetski, he’s spent years documenting the local surfing scene and beyond in all kinds of extremes. 

Prepare to be blown away... 

WORDS: MARK CHAPMAN PHOTOS: STEVO www.photomarkstevenson.com 


BEHIND THE LENS 


93

MEET THE MAN... 

StevO is a sixth generation and well settled 

Dunnos (Dunedin) boy - half Irish/half 

Scot-like many over there and by his own 

description a ‘totally a Southern Kiwi Man’. 

“I dated a local girl, Ann, at 21, followed her to 

the wild west coast, over to Greymouth for her 

teaching before heading off on our big overseas 

expedition to London. We used it as a base to 

photograph and surf Europe and North Africa, 

before returning home via southern Africa and 

West Oz ... Best waves. 

“On returning, I married Ann and now have two 

damn fine kids - Jacob who is now the second 

generation Stevenson surfer and Eliza Jean.” 

In an area that takes being tough just getting 

in the water for a surf, let alone taking 

photos, we were curious as to how StevO 

got sucked into it… 

“Since I turned into a grom at 14 all I’ve done is 

surf - no school qualifications, as I was too busy 

surfing to worry about exams. 

“I picked up a Super-8 movie camera and shot a 

couple of movies of the boys back in the late 70s, 

but with only a couple of quick part slashes from 

the boys working out, it was costing me megabucks 

for very little, so I thought there was more 

chance to get photos of my mates and even sell 

the odd shot to the boys or mags. 

“I needed to learn more, as I was really interested 

in the photographic thing, so I started doing a 

black and white photo course. I then did a 3-year 

photographic degree while on the west coast. I 

did weddings and graduations as they actually 

paid, but I got a great kick out of photographing 

the surf and surfers around the world. I managed 

to get some photos published in books and mags, 

and that’s a real buzz. 

“Because of my passion for surfing and love of 

photography, it makes absolute sense to pursue 

this type of photography. It gives me a real buzz, 

especially the big wave stuff and extreme slabs.” 

But surely you have to be nuts to brave water 

that cold so often? 

“We’ve got great waves here, pretty constant - 

like daily - and it’s been mostly uncrowded, until 

recent digital years. It’s hard to leave a paradise. 

But yes… What’s ‘normal’? Most who surf their 

whole life in cold water, I’m sure are ‘insane’- 

well going by most of my mates anyway, but I 

guess they’re used to it. 


STEVO SAYS: Kyle Davidson @ The Island Dunedin - the colour of the wave and of course 

that lip is insane and where Davo is placed on the wave makes this one of my fav shots BEHIND THE LENS 

“IT MAKES ABSOLUTE 

SENSE TO PURSUE 

THIS TYPE OF 

PHOTOGRAPHY. IT 

GIVES ME A REAL BUZZ” 


95

STEVO SAYS: Taane Tokina - I love how hollow 

and the colous are in this wave, so clean and the 

morph in the lip all make this shot. 

“I’m not crazy. I realised that I couldn’t continue to 

get colds, flu and pneumonia swimming in the old 

sh*tty wetties we had back then, taking photos. 

There’s also the White Pointer factor here - seven 

attacks with three fatal just before I started surfing 

and getting into photography in Dunedin... So, when 

one of the local big wave surfers, Davo, introduced 

me to the jetski, that was it. I was sold. 

“A huge bonus is that the camera angle is better 

from ski – it’s not so low -and I’m out of the water 

most of the time. It’s pleasant for the few warm 

days we get with solid sizable waves, but most of 

the time it’s either frost on the beach or snow on 

the hills, so it’s harder and colder work sitting on 

the ski for 4-6 hours, shooting in negative windchill 

temps… But as I say, we’re used to it, and thank 

goodness for the continuing invention in better 

wetties.” 

Stevo’s Yamaha jetski is an integral part of his 

setup and as for the rest, he’s a Canon man all 

the way. 

“L series lenses, SPL housings and my land baby 

the Canon 600f4 and now I’ve starting making fun 

movies on the GoPro as well.” 

Any tips or tricks of coping with the cold for 

aspiring photographers? 

“Don’t smoke as your blood won’t circulate as well. 

But then again, smoking keeps the hands warm! Oh, 

and keep those nasty, biting sandflies away when 

shooting from land or the ski. 

“Seriously though, layer up. Have packed in your bag 

a rain jacket, gloves, gum boots, polyprops (thermal 

underwear), an umbrella, insect repellant, a tarp and 

rope which you will need at some point in the day - 

especially shooting from the land. 

“Polyprops also work well under wetties, and get on 

as much rubber as you can – hood, booties, kidney 

belt, heated vest... Possum gloves are great too, 

warm when wet and not as bulky as wetsuit gloves. 

“Finally, keep your flask filled up with hot milo - 

great to re-warm the body along with your ciggie.” 



ABOVE: Once the boys (Kyle, 

Gordie, Taane and Oscar ) got 

use to the jetski, this amazing 

wave really opened up. It 

gave us Hawai-type power in 

our backyard and introduced 

a whole new level of surfing. 

What we were doing at the 

time is summed up in this 

photo, as Davo looks into the 

eye of a beast, three times as 

hollow as high. 

RIGHT: I’m not into naming 

spots, but this is a exception 

to the rule. It’s so hard to get 

to, lying a third of the way out 

in one of the worlds roughest 

straits, Faux Straight, which 

is a White Pointer breeding 

area. It’s open to the most wild 

weather one can imagine - so 

changeable and very dangerous 

and only for the MADDEST of 

surfers. This was our first year 

attempting to surf this crazy 

place. Dave Stevenson (Mong) 

has a crack at paddling it. 


97

GO RIGHT: NZ is well known for its long lefthand 

points. Well, we’ve got a few rights as well!! 

STEVO SAYS: There’s nothing better than seeing a 

wave morph so much... You’re shooting, your’re looking 

through the viewfinder, sitting on a ski as well as driving 

it , knowing sometimes the small channel will close out 

in solid 8-12 ft swells. There’s so much going though your 

head while clicking, but it’s all worth the work and financial 

losses when you capture a moment in time like this. 

REMOTE: This is shot off the west coast of the South Island - NZ’s most remote surfing area with huge waves and snow in the Southern Alps in the 

background. It’s such a special place. Only those who have ventured into the Fiordland World Heritage Park 

will know the real feeling of being an explorer. 



Back to the insane shots of yours at Quarry 

Beach Surfboards, of some big wave surfing 

near Dunedin. Tell us a little more about that… 

“Yeah, unbelievable – we never thought as groms, 

we could have accessed waves like that in our 

backyard. 

“We would get the odd big 8 or 12 ft session in 

Dunedin every year or two, and that was huge. A 

couple of others would surf out of town in bigger 

waves, but it was Hawaii for the huge surf… That 

was, until we started a big wave memorial for one 

of the big wave searchers, Rex von Huben, the 

biggest big wave warrior around. (Rex was a local 

Dunedin surfer that sadly died in a car accident.) 

“The memorial started in the first year as a big 

wave adventure for 30 of NZ’s best big wave 

surfers. It was held in the south, finding 6-8 ft 

solid, maybe odd 10 ft. But by year two it was 

up to 12-15 ft waves at Centre Island in Foveaux 

Strait. (Recently, with the use of shark tagging 

Centre Island has been found to be on route to 

NZ’s white pointer home base, Stewart Island, 

which is right next door.) 

“This was serious now, as it was definitely life 

threatening between deep water hold downs, sharks 

and 20-25ft waves now possibly on the agenda. 

Jetskis also helped us to venture further into Milford 

on the West Coast, Port Craig in southern Fiordland 

and the Catlins in search of the biggest beast. 

“I eventually came to the conclusion that the 

area around the Catlins is easiest for big waves, 

especially for access and time. And it’s just a lot 

cheaper - just drive up and you’re out there, no 

choppers or boats needed.” 

As far as travel goes, StevO’s been a lot 

further afield than just the local waves. To 

date, he’s racked up visits to 35 different 

countries and reckons every different trip 

has had its own magic moment, or in his case 

life-threateningly dangerous ones. 

“Once an elephant in South Africa nearly killed me, 

thought it would have to go round the tree to get 

me 10m away, but no… He went straight through 

the bloody tree -a full size male with huge tusks. 


99

Now 

stocking 

SUPs! 

Surf Fitness Training 

 

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392 Harbour Drive, The Jetty Strip, Coffs Harbour NSW 

Phone: 02 6658 0223 www.thelogshack.com.au 

Surf-specific workouts 

you can do at home 

Get fitter, stronger and 

enhance your surfing 

performance 

Catch more waves, 

Get more barrels 

Surf better and have 

more fun 

To get started with your free surf-specific workout, visit... 

www.TOTALSURFINGFITNESS.COM/freeworkout 

“LOTS OF GREAT WAVES, LOTS 

OF PARTYING AND I MADE SOME 

GREAT LIFELONG FRIENDS.” 

I only just jumped onto the ladder of the Land Rover, which was 

having trouble starting… Scary stuff. 

“On the same trip I was a bit cheeky….well stupid really, as me 

and a friend got out of the Land Rover to sneak up on sleeping 

lions. Again, I have never run so fast as when they stood up and 

looked our way, yawning… We were nearly half of the 300m to 

them, but did get some cool pics you don’t see that in NZ ! 

“Then there was a time we went into Milford Sound... We wore 

frost for the 2hr drive in at 2am, icicles hanging off trees, shooting 

all day 10 miles up the coast in 10-15ft waves only for the boys to 

get their ski washed up and stuck on the rocky beach. They needed 

a helicopter to get their ski out. I had to put in a sparkplug for the 

return trip down the coast and fiord. 

“The sun was gone and the temperature was freezing. I had two 

pairs of gloves on and still got frostbite on my fingertips. We 

finally arrived back at the car to find a letter on the windscreen 

saying if we bring our jet skis back into Milford, we would be 

fined $100,000 each. Finally, to cap it off, I fell asleep at the wheel 

driving home, but luckily I made it home safe, we all said we 

would never do a day mission there again. 

“The Rex Von Huben inaugural Big Wave comp was definitely 

the highlight in my life and work. I surfed some big waves in the 

contest, shot pics as the only photographer onboard and drove 

a crew of four mad. It was awesome for surfers around Otago, 

Catlins and Southland for a week - a bit like the cannonball run but 

with surfboards. (laughs) Lots of great waves, lots of partying and 

I made some great lifelong friends.” 

There’s been no shortage of excitement in StevO’s life so 

far and he’s fortunate enough to have the photographic 

proof to back it up. Here’s to many more years, many more 

adventures and of course many more great photos for the 

rest of us to enjoy. 

For more on StevO’s work going all the way back to the 80’s, visit 

his website: www.photomarkstevenson.com. There are countless 

images of surfing, people and landscapes from the South Island 

and around the world. To order StevO says to email him the details 

of the image and he’ll get back to you with a price for print, 

postcard, canvas, digital file or whatever you might need. 

Alternately if you happen to be lucky enough to be visiting 

Dunedin, you can purchase from one of the local stockists: St Clair 

Hot Salt Water Pool & Café, Carly Jones Floral Design, Quarry 

Beach Surfboards and St Clair 4-Square. 

TOP PROMOTIONAL GEAR AND 

MERCHANDISE FOR YOUR BUSINESS 

HOODED TOPS : T-SHIRTS : CAPS 

CUSTOM DESIGN SERVICE 

WWW.SURFMERCH.COM.AU 



101


BOARDS • SKATE • TESTS • REVIEWS • FASHION 

A LOVE FOR THE FINER THINGS 

Rather than just talk about a particular aspect of surfboard design, we discussed with Paul 

Uscinski of Cod Surfboards something as paramount as the design itself, attention to detail. 

“I feel boards today have lost the love. It’s just pump 

out, pump out. Nothing is unique. That’s why I don’t 

like shaping machines. I love hand shaping. It takes 

a lot more time and effort but the performance and 

durability of the boards is superior in my mind. 

“I put as much effort into a board for my customers as 

I do for myself. I get excited with every board I shape. 

“I find people want to know first and foremost that you 

care about them before they do business. Personally 

I enjoy spending time with my customers to truly 

understand how they surf and what they require. 

“It’s then a matter of taking more time again in the 

shaping phase. When you hand shape, you take less 

off the blank than a machine. This adds to the strength 

of the board. This is because the cell structure of the 

foam closest to the skin is strongest. 

“When I finish off my boards I use 400 grit 

sandpaper. It adds another half hour to the process 

but I find by doing this I can really fine tune the shape 

and this method ensures the board holds less resin. 

When boards are finished with just gauze, as some 

shapers do, it leaves big scratches. This ‘depth’ is 

then filled with resin making the boards heavier. 

“This added attention to detail once again 

improves performance and delivers a lightweight 

performance surfboard that doesn’t sacrifice 

durability. And because the board is lighter you 

can add a little more foam if required to improve 

paddling power. 

“Equally important is the fin configuration and how 

it relates to the shape. A great board with poor fin 

placement can’t be fixed. A lot of companies make 

nice boards and then just mark the fins out. There 

has to be more attention to detail, particularly with 

regards to the angle of the fins and how they are 

toed out. If done correctly, it dramatically improves 

how water flows through to the tail of the board 

heightening performance, increasing drive and 

maneuverability. I pride myself on my accuracy. 

“I tailor make every board to suit the customer 

so every board I create is different. I do have a 

particular love for channel bottoms though. They 

take a lot of extra effort but again, I find you get so 

much more out of the shape. I have always admired 

the work of shapers like Al Byrne. 

“There is only one problem with dedicating so much 

time to getting a board perfect, I have to undertake 

other work to survive. If I was trying to make a 

living solely out of surfboards alone, in the manner 

I create them, I would have to charge up to $2000 

for a channel-bottom board. The margins on boards 

today are forcing shapers to undertake other work. 

“This is what I really want to do full time but there 

is just not the money in it these days. I don’t do this 

because I am trying to make dollars out of it. 

I shape surfboards because I absolutely love it.” 

Paul Uscinski started Cod Surfboards with Daniel 

Miau back in 1984 and has been hand shaping a 

range of shortboards through to longboards ever 

since. For more visit www.codsurfing.com.au 

APPRENTICE 

IN WAITING 

We will see the Archer’s 

‘Squid’ brought to life in our 

forthcoming September edition 

of smorgasboarder. Gus, Ned and 

Sam, winners of Classic Malibu’s 

Shaper’s Apprentice Competition, 

are champing at the bit to get 

amongst the foam shavings in 

Peter White’s shaping bay. 

BACK TO 

THE FUTURE 

You’ve heard the saying, 

‘Everything old is new again’. 

Well how about, ‘Everything 

new is old again’ as is the case 

with the latest creation from 

Classic Malibu. A brand spanking 

new board made to look like 

an old classic, pardon the pun. 

Modelled on an old Gordon & 

Woods shape and made for the 

Wrecks & Relics event in Noosa. 

The trick? Leave the blank under 

a tree for all manner of things to 

drop on it and discolour it, then 

glass it up with clear Volan. The 

only departure from a true old 

mal is the nose concave Peter 

added to improve performance. 

And so it’s reborn, or should I say 

born or whatever. I’m confused. 

For more: www.classicmalibu.com 


103

SHAPER’S PROMOTION 

GEAR: BOARDS 

Go on... 

try me! 

THE HOT DOG 

Shaper: Dean “Dino” Tziolis 

Dimensions: 5’4” - 6’ 

Suits: Anyone - Custom 

Description: Fun 

shortboard. Super quick, 

easy to get up and 

planing, yet responds 

positively to rider input. 

Wider planshape for 

small surf. Enough rocker 

for medium surf. Ride 

about 4” shorter than 

a standard shortboard. 

Original print Goodtime 

logos - it’s a piece of 

Australian surfing history. 

Construction: South 

Coast Foam. 2 x 4oz glass. 

Rails are lapped on the 

bottom edge in carbon 

Fins: AFC 

Shaper comment: 

Goodtime prides itself 

on making quality 

surfboards and has done 

so since 1971. Whether 

it’s a classic shape, a 

performance thruster 

or a simple fish tail, no 

matter how many fins... 

its been here or its in 

here. Goodtime is what 

surfing is all about. Over 

thirty years later, we’re 

still having a good time 

surfing! 

THE BIG EASY 

Shaper: Simon Jones 

Dimensions: 6’2” - 7’ 

Suits: Anyone - Custom 

Description: Semi 

roundhouse wing round 

tail with a vee through 

centre toward tail. 

Construction: Burford 

blank, fully handshaped. 

6/6/6oz Bay Mills glass 

Silmar polyester resins. 

Fins: Thruster FCS set up 


Goodtime prides itself 

on making quality 

surfboards and has done 

so since 1971. Whether 

it’s a classic shape, a 

performance thruster or a 

simple fish tail, no matter 

how many fins... its been 

here or its in here. Over 

thirty years later, we’re 

still having a good time 

surfing! 

Rider comment: “After 

catching a couple of 

waves went to the back 

and found it was really 

maneuverable, very fun 

and you could walk up and 

down it as well” 

Tyler Wright 

POPSTER PRO 

Shaper: Ed Sinnott 

Specs: From 5’4 - 6’4” 

Get in touch for customs 

Ideal conditions: 

Anything up to 6’ 

Description: This is a 

combination of all my 

old single fin and twinfin 

templates combined with 

new school bottom curves 

and rails. The result is a 

sensational hybrid that 

flys. Flat entry, deep vortex 

concave, razor edges and 

wet and dry finish. 

Construction: Burford/ 

South Coast PU blanks, 

Silmar polyester resin, 

Colan and Surf Nine glass. 

This combination has 

stood the test of time. 

Fins: Quad or thruster 


A unique and amazing 

hybrid board that goes 

ballistic in anything. 

Developed by Josh Sleep, 

Jono Salfeild and the 

Afends boys in Byron Bay. 

They see it as a majestic 

alternative for all round 

surfing. Tried and tested, 

it’s proved them right. 

THE FIZZ 

Shaper: Scott Newman 

Specs: 6’0’’ x 18 ¾’’x 2 5 / 16” 


2-6 foot. 

Description: Our new 

model. We have faded out 

our Boombox and Vulture 

models by combining 

them with our Impala 

model. This is the FIZZ. 

Lower entry and tail 

rocker than your normal 

shortboard with a single to 

double concave. Fast and 

responsive. 

Construction: 

EPS/Epoxy with carbon tail 

patches. 

Fins: Scarfini FX2 


I’ve been working on 

this board for the last six 

months with all my riders 

and they’re all riding them. 

DEMOS ARE GO 

Shaper: Dave Verrall 

Specs: From 4’2”-10’6” 


Today’s surf. 

Suits: Diverse range of 

happy surfers. 

Ability: Experienced 

enough to care about the 

right choice. 

Description: 

Demo boards are 

available to anyone. With 

a massive range to choose 

from you’re bound to find 

a magic stick. 

Construction: From 

traditional PU to space 

age composites. 

Fins: 1, 2, 3, 4, & 5 


I care that you really do 

get the right board before 

you spend any money... 

GOODTIME SURFBOARDS 

29 Ipswich Rd, 

Woolloongabba QLD 4102 

Ph: 07 3391 8588 

info@goodtime.com.au 


GOODTIME SURFBOARDS 

29 Ipswich Rd, 

Woolloongabba QLD 4102 

Ph: 07 3391 8588 

info@goodtime.com.au 


ESP SURFBOARDS 

2/81 Centennial Circuit 

Byron Bay, NSW 

Ph: 0404 059 321 

www.espsurfshop.com.au 

www.edsinnott.com.au 

SLS SURFBOARDS 

2/57 George St, 

Moffat Beach, QLD 4551 

Ph: Scott 0424 314 183 

slssurfboards.com.au 

DIVERSE SURFBOARDS 

476 Gold Coast Hwy, 

Tugun, QLD 4224 

Ph: 07 5598 4848 

dave@diversesurf.com.au 

diversesurf.com.au 


BYRON BAY . AUSTRALIA 

Loose as a 

goose, which is 

just plain weird 

considering it’s 

a cat. 

GEAR: BOARDS 


THE JORDYN 

Shaper: Paul Carson 

Dimensions: 

5’6” x 19” x 2” 

Suits: Jordyn 

Description: 

A grommet board with 

plenty of surface area for 

stability but not a wide 

tail so they turn easily. 

Very light double concave 

through the tail. 

Construction: Hand 

shaped Burford blank, 

quality glassing. This one 

has a resin colour swirl on 

the bottom. 

Fins: Thruster setup. 

Plugs or set. 


Great intermediate board 

before progressing to a 

performance shortboard 

or something else. 

CARBON FIBRE 

KNEEBOARD 

Shaper: Dave Parkes 

Dimensions: 

6’0” x 23” x 2 ½” 


3- 6 ft 

Suits: All round waves 

but excells in good 

quality surf. 

Ability Level: Anyone. 

Description: 4 -fin 

“SQUISH TAIL’’ 

Construction: 

EPS stringerless core. 

Laminated with one layer 

carbon all round and 

some glass on the deck 

and rails. Glossed and 

polished. 

Fins: Powerbase 

Ceramics. 


I have been surfing 

this board as a part of 

my quiver since late 

2010. Done a couple 

of Indo trips and been 

through some cyclone 

surfs. It’s hanging in 

there REALLY well . 

ZAP CAT 

Shaper: 

Glenn ‘Cat’ Collins 

Shaping experience: 

I am pretty certain 

Boards made: 

Don’t count 

Description: 

I am tall, dark and 

handsome. Think of a 

suave caveman 

Construction: 

100% pure muscle with a 

twelve pack, to boot 

Suits: Anyone with an 

open mind 


My own trip on the McCoy 

Lazor Zap 

ZAP 

LIKE A CAT 


Fullish conditions, to which the board is not 

suited, a bad back, then loads of work meant 

I was destined to never really get a taste for 

this board. Then one morning a couple of days 

from printing this edition, some nice clean faces 

allowed me to see what it could do. 

I must admit it took me a while to get used to 

it. That’s not a criticism of the board but of the 

surfer. I have become accustomed to riding a 

range of small boards such as mini Simmons, 

miniature fish and finless creations but all have 

a fuller outline. 

The Zap Cat’s plan shape is designed so you 

don’t need to move your feet. You simply surf 

off the sweet spot being the wide tail. The 

problem was I kept placing my front foot far too 

forward and with not much width in the nose, I 

would stall the board. If anything, this little craft 

highlighted a problem with my surfing. 

THE FACTORY 

SURFBOARDS 

CALOUNDRA 

17 Allen Street 

Caloundra QLD 4551 

Ph: 07 5492 5838 

factorysurf@southernfoam.com.au 

thefactorysurfboards.com.au 

C U S T O M K N E E B O A R D S 

PARKES AUSTRALIA 

4/83 Centennial Circuit 

Byron Bay, NSW 

Ph: 02 6685 6627 

E: d-par@bigpond.com 

parkesaustralia.com 

Surfboards and surfing 

props for movies and ads 

SURF1770NOOSA.COM 

surf1770@bigpond.com 

surf1770noosa.com 

Once I corrected my stance it gave me a 

shock at just how loose it was. I ripped into 

one forehand turn and nearly pulled off an 

accidental 360 – most of my maneuvers are 

accidental anyway. 

The Zap Cat is a sweet little ride. Highly 

maneuverable, easy to paddle and fun to surf. 


105


GEAR: BOARDS 

Mirror, 

mirror, on 

the board... 

8FT DRIFTWOOD 

SWINE FLU 

CROSSOVER 

STANDARD MAL 

LOG EXCEPTIONAL 

Shaper: You! 

Specs: Complete range of 

build-your-own kits from 

5’6”Fish to 12’ SUPs. 

Ability: If you did 

woodwork, played Lego 

or ever built a jigsaw 

puzzle, then you can build 

a board with these kits. 

Description: Buy a 

complete kit, construct 

your own board. There’s no 

better reward than surfing 

a board you’ve built. Kits 

are CNC-cut for perfect 

shape and have been tried, 

tested and refined to create 

performance surfboards. 

These are no wall-hangers! 

Construction: Your first 

board will take around 30-40 

hours. Some can build a 

board in a week, others take 

months, but the satisfaction 

of a complete board is the 

same - pure stoke! 

Fins: You decide. 

Disclaimer: Responsibility 

for wives/husbands/ 

girlfriends/boyfriends 

annoyance at the lack of 

quality time spent with 

aforementioned partner not 

taken by Surfing Green or 

any of its affiliates during the 

construction of your board. 

Shaper: Jesse Watson 

Dimensions: 

9’6” x 23” x 3 1 /8” 

Ideal conditions: Up to 

head high sliders 

Suits: Hepcats to kooks, 

kicks flicks and hanging 

heels. 

Description: Traditional 

pig-inspired modern sled, 

but with modernised 

rockers and foils for the 

logger who wants to 

noseglide and whipturn 

like it aint no thang. 

Construction: 6/4oz deck 

+ 6/4oz bottom resin tints, 

60’s comp stripe and a full 

gloss and polish. 

Fins: Black Apache 

revised D-fin 

Shaper comment: This 

one is a modern sled 

for the discerning kook, 

traditional in looks - but a 

real hotrod under your feet. 

It’ll flash you a smile and 

then punch you in the face. 

Shaper: 

Terry “Snake” Bishop 

Dimensions: 

9’1" x 22 ½" x 2 5 / 8" 


Any size with punch 

Suits: Someone that can 

really surf. 

Ability Level: 

Intermediate to Advance 

Description: This is the 

latest in our performance 

mal, lots of rocker in 

both nose and tail. Nose 

rider front end with a 

performance back end. 

A lot like a shortboard 

so you can really turn it. 

Thinned out so it’s light 

and manuverable. 

Construction: 

Standard PU construction. 

Fins: 8” or 9” cutaway 

with side FCS GX 

Shaper: Bronte Bampton 

Specs: 

9’1” x 22 ½” x 2 3 /8”- 3” 

Suits: 1-6 ft average to 

quality surf 

Description: 

Standard mal for all level 

surfers. Single concave 

with slight doubles through 

fins. Medium entry with 

average tail lift med/low 

rails. 

Construction: 

PU blank, FGI resins, 

Aerolite cloth. 

Stock: 6 x 6 x 6 

Fins: Fin box plus 

stabilisers – can be 

ordered in quad. 


This is our most 

popular mal which suits 

absolutely everyone 

whether you are a 

beginner or experienced. 

Shaper: Peter White 

Length: 9’1” 

Width: 22” 

Thickness: 2 ¾” 

Nose: 16” 

Tail: 16 ¼” 

Ideal: Ideally point breaks 

but guaranteed to put a 

cheesy grin on your face 

on mellow beachies. 

Suits: Hipsters and Soul- 

Kats, Freaks and Fiends. 

Ability: Int - Adv. 

Description: Soft 50/50 

rails with mirror-like tints 

on deck & bottom. Old 

school style, but thinned 

out rails on tail and nose 

for responsive turns & 

manoeuvres. 

Construction: 6/6+6 oz 

glassing. Choose your 

own colour tints. 

Fins: Beautiful fixed 

timber single fin. 

Comment: A board you’ll 

fall in love with. 

SURFING GREEN 

Coolum Beach, QLD 

Mobile: 0412 042 811 

surfinggreen.com.au 

black apache surfboards 

BLACK APACHE 

SURFBOARDS 

Ph: 0410 419 791 

blackapachesurfboards@live.com.au 

blackapachesurfboards.com.au 

CARABINE SURFBOARDS 

36 Finders Street 

Wollongong, NSW 

Ph/Fax: 02 4229 9462 

carabinesurfboards.com.au 

LIQUID STIX 

SURFBOARDS 

Moana, South Australia 

Ph: 0407 606 685 

E: liquidstix@bigpond.com 

www.liquidstix.com.au 

Available @ MCS & Preece’s 

CLASSIC MALIBU 

Cnr Gibson & Eumundi Rd 

Noosaville, QLD 4566 

Ph: 07 5474 3122 

info@classicmalibu.com 

www.classicmalibu.com 


Leave the 

rest in your 

wake... 

GEAR: BOARDS 


PERFORMER 

ALL-ROUNDER 

THE LIMB 

THE MACKEREL 

THE SURFSKATE 

The best of both 

worlds - a recycled EPS 

foam core and 2-3mm 

balsawood skin. With 

a weight of only 7-8 

kg and an emphasis on 

manoeuvrability and 

maximum speed, the 

Performer is designed 

and shaped for today’s 

high performance 

longboarding. The 

Performer comes with 

a single box fin and 

two smaller stabiliser 

fins. Custom orders are 

welcome. 

SPECIFICATIONS 

Length: 9’0’’ - 9’4’’ 

Width: 22 ¼’’ - 23’ 

Thickness: 2 ½’’ - 3’’’ 

Weight: 7 - 8kg 

Suits: intermediate 

Ideal waves: 1-8ft 

Construction: foam core 

modern longboard 

Stringer: 

Triple, 30mm apart 

Bottom: Vee 

Tail: Rounded square 

Rails: 

nose - 70/30 

centre - 80/20 

tail - 90/10 

The Allrounder is an EPS 

foam-core performance 

Mini-Mal. It is the only 

board that features our 

newly designed 1 / 8’’ cedar 

rail stringers for added 

stiffness on smaller 

waves. This type of board 

is suited to most riders 

– perfect for small to 

medium sized conditions 

and great for all ages. 


Length: 7’0’’ - 8’6’’ 

Width: 20 ½’’ - 23’’ 

Thickness: 2 ½’’ - 3’’ 

Suits: Beginner to 

experienced 

Ideal waves: 1 ft to 6 ft 

Weight: 3.5 kg 

Construction: EPS foam 

core 

Stringer: Riley cedar 

rail stringers and centre 

stringer 

Bottom: Vee 

Tail: Square 

Rails: Hard 80/20 

A balsa skinned EPS 

foam core shortboard, the 

recycled EPS foam and 

the absence of a stringer 

create a significant 

reduction in weight, 

with great memory and 

flex. A great board for 

beach breaks from 2 - 8ft 

waves, the Riley Limb 

has a set thrusters fins, 

but boxes are optional at 

no extra cost. The Riley 

balsa coloured fin system 

allows for changing 

fin setups and lets you 

choose between fin size, 

rake, angles, material, 

and more. 


Length: 5’10’’ - 6’8’’ 

Width: 18 1/2’’- 20’’ 

Thickness: 2 1/2’’ - 3’’ 

Weight: 3 kg 

Suits: Advanced to 

experienced 

Ideal waves: 2 ft to 8 ft 

Construction: Recycled 

EPS foam core 

Stringer: none 

Bottom shape: Vee 

scoop in the tail to 

concave centre and 

concave nose 

Tail: Rounded square 

Rails: 80/20 

Logo: Computer cut 

cedar balsa giving it the 

natural look and feel. 

Fins: Stick on 4 ½” wood 

combo thruster 

This is the modern 

version of the retro fish. 

It has a little less volume 

with a rolled deck giving 

it better and tighter turns. 

This has a quad fin box 

set up that can be used 

as a twin also. The cedar 

stringers separate the 

stained balsa strips to 

represent the Striped 

Mackerel. 


Length: 5’10’’ - 6’4’’ 

Width: 20’’ - 22’’ 

Thickness: 2 ½” - 3’’ 

Weight: 4.6 kg 

Suits: Advanced to 

experienced 

Ideal waves: ½ - 5ft 

Construction: EPS foam 

core 

Stringer: Cedar parallel 

stringers 

Bottom shape: Vee from 

nose to centre and flat 

at the tail 

Tail shape: swallow 

Rails: Vee at front and 

centre, flat at tail 

The surfskate translates 

to new style wake surfing 

by using a thinner, smaller 

board for more tricks, flips, 

pops and airs. 

This board can be used 

in small hollow waves or 

behind a large wake boat. 


Length: 4’10” 

Width: 20” 

Thickness: ¾” centre 

and 7 / 8” nose and tail 

Nose and tail shape: Pin 

Fin: Single wood – 

reverse fish dorsal in box 

Construction: 

The solid balsa 

construction gives it 

good strength, flex and 

buoyancy. 

Suited to the experienced 

and agile waker or surfer. 

RILEY BALSAWOOD SURFBOARDS 

Ph: 0412 376 464 E: mark@riley.com.au www.balsasurfboardsriley.com.au 


107


GEAR: BOARDS 

HIGH PERFORMANCE 

MAGNUM 

Shaper: Wayne McKewen 

Specs: 6’0” x 20” x 2 ½” 

Ideal conditions: All 

rounder for beachies points 

and reefs from 2-6ft. 

Suits: 

Heavier surfers 80kg+ 

Ability: 

Novice to Advanced 

Description: 

The high performance 

Magnum maximizes 

buoyancy without 

sacrificing maneuverability. 

Available from 6’0”to 6’4”. 

Construction: 

Burford PU blank 4 x 4oz 

deck and 4oz bottom. 

Fins: FCS 5-fin setup. 


This model came about 

by working with some of 

our heavier customers 

to get an all-rounder 

that has good floatation 

and performs well. A lot 

of work has been done 

to get the best paddle 

rocker possible. 5-fin 

set up gives you more 

options to suit a larger 

variety of waves. 

SUPERMAL 

V2 FLEX 

Shaper: Mitchell Rae 

Specs: 7 to 9 feet . 

This one is 8’ x 21 ½” x 2 ¾”. 

Custom handshaped to suit 

your needs , body weight 

and fitness level. 


If I had to choose one 

board, this would be 

it. Exceptional ride in 

anything from 2 to 8 feet. 

Description: Spiral chine 

entry, medium concave. V2 

Flex with Kinetic Carbon 

Construction panels, which 

control the flex pattern and 

increase the reflex/ping 

out of the turns. Available 

in light, medium and strong 

glassing. 

Fins: Single, thrusters and 

quad. My favourite is quad. 


Extremely quick, positive 

and manouvreable. 

An excellent travelling 

board... Will excel at 

places like Uluwatu and 

Nusa Dua. If you don’t 

have a Supermal V2 Flex 

in your quiver, do yourself 

a favour and get one! 

7FT FATBOY 

Shaper: Mark Rabbidge 

Dimensions: 

7' x 20 ½” x 2 ¾” 

Description: My most 

popular board designed in 

‘84 and still going strong 

for your everyday surfer. 

Fins: 3-fin setup or 

single fin. 


Catch more waves. Surfs 

most like a shortboard, 

but with great paddle 

power. Can surf all size 

waves with all around 

performance. 

6FT STOMPER 

Shaper: Mark Rabbidge 

Dimensions: 

6’ x 20” x 2 3 / 8” 

Ability: All surfers who 

want to have fun 

Description: 

Straight out of the 80s, 

but modernised. 

Fins: 3-fin setup 


Everyone’s making one of 

these models, but this is 

my version and is getting 

good feedback. 

THE UN-NAMED 

Shaper: Rory Oke 

Dimensions: 

5’9” x 20” x 2 3 / 8” 


Hopefully Tom 

Suits: Skate-inspired 

surfers 

Ability Level: Average to 

pretty good 

Description: Fuller nose, 

pulled-in round tail and a 

lower rocker makes this 

board surf super smooth. 

Currently surfing this 

model myself and they 

go insane. Now we just 

need a name. 

Construction: 

Handshaped PU Ocean 

Foam blank, 4 x 4 x 4 

polished finish. 

Fins: Speeedfins s108 


The first board for my 

nephew. Enjoy it Tommy! 

MT WOODGEE 

SURFBOARDS 

Stores at Coolangatta, 

Currumbin, Burleigh Heads 

Ph: 07 5535 0288 

www.mtwoodgee.com.au 

Join us on Facebook 

OUTER ISLAND 

SURFBOARDS 

7 Bayldon Drive, 

Raleigh, NSW 

Ph: 02 6655 7007 

info@outerislandsurfboards.com 

outerislandsurfboards.com 

outerisland.blogspot.com 

RABBIDGE SURF DESIGN 

Ph: 02 4456 4038 

Mobile: 0427 767 176 

Bendalong, NSW 2539 

www.markrabbidge.com 

RABBIDGE SURF DESIGN 

Ph: 02 4456 4038 

Mobile: 0427 767 176 

Bendalong, NSW 2539 


OKE SURFBOARDS 

1/1-7 Canterbury Rd, 

Braeside, VIC, 3195 

Ph: 03 9587 3553 

okesurfboards.com 


BE BRIGHT! 

NOT BORING! 

THE UN-NAMED 

Shaper: Rory Oke 

Dimensions: 

5’9” x 20” x 2 3 /” 8” 

8 


Hopefully Tom 

Suits: Skate-inspired 

surfers 

Ability Level: Average to 

pretty good 

Description: Fuller nose, 

pulled-in round tail and a 

lower rocker makes this 

board surf super smooth. 

Currently surfing this 

model myself and they 

go insane. Now we just 

need a name. 

Construction: 

Handshaped PU Ocean 

Foam 

blank, 4 x 4 x 4 

polished finish. 

Fins: Speeedfins s108 


The first board for my 

nephew. Enjoy it Tommy! 

Get GASfins multicoloured 

plugs, any combo, any colours 

put into your next board. Make 

a statement and fight bland and 

boring with high-quality plugs, 

fins and hardware that is 

GENUINELY 

GET GAS COLOUR UNDER YOUR BOARD Ask your local shaper for GASfins 

PROUDLY USED BY SHAPERS ALL DOWN THE EAST COAST OF AUSTRALIA AND INTERNATIONALLY. 

OKE SURFBOARDS 

SHAPERS: Get in touch to try GASfins yourself. Quality and performance 1/1-7 Canterbury for your customers Rd, without the price tag for you. 0417 980 524 • gasfins@gmail.com 

Braeside, VIC, 3195 

Ph: 03 9587 3553 

okesurfboards.com 

mar/apr 2012 

109


GEAR: BOARDS 

QUAD FIN FISH 

DEMO FLEXTAIL 

TWIN FISH 

MINI-BONZER 

HAWK TAIL 

Shaper: Jordie Brown 

Dimensions: 

5’6’’ x 21 ¾’’ x 17’’ x 16’’ x 2 ¾’’ 

Ideal conditions: This is 

an extremely versatile 

design, it goes amazing 

in under shoulder high 

waves and performs great 

when it gets a bit bigger! 

Suits: The surfer looking 

for a board that paddles 

and surfs great. 

Description: Short flat 

and fast! 

Construction: Resin 

stringer, Light 6oz/4oz 

trimmed lap glass-job, 

custom art by Tiphaine 

Flurette. 

Fins: FCS quad fin setup 

(also available with 

custom glass on fins) 


I traveled with only this 

design for 6 months last 

year and it never let me 

down, no matter what 

conditions I came across! 

HIGH TIDE 

SURFBOARDS 

Skenes Creek, Vic 3233 

Ph: 0401 437 392 

hightidesurfboards@hotmail.com 

Shaper: Jed Done 

Dimensions: 

6’2” x 21 ¼” x 2 5 / 8” 

Varies from store to store 

Ideal: Everyday up to 6 ft. 

Extra width in this puppy will 

be a bonus in fatter surf. 

Suits: Anybody with a 

free sprit feeling trapped 

by boring, slow thrusters! 

Description: For those 

interested in the flextail 

concept but have never 

experienced it before, 

I have made boards 

available to demo at: 

• Wally’s Water Gallery 

Marcoola Beach 

• Dripping Wet Bondi 

• Offshore Moruya 

• Bushrat Merimbula 

• Zak’s Melbourne 

Construction: Twin stringer 

carbon fibre flextail, resin tint, 

pigment pinline, finish coat. 

Fins: 4WFS custom 

quad. Fully adjustable to 

suit individual style and 

different waves. 

Shaper comment: Not a 

gimmick, this suits clean 

surfing. It’s fun, loves to 

carve lines and travel fast. 

Test it and find out. 

BUSHRAT SURFBOARDS 

Merimbula NSW 

Ph: 0409 813 431 

E: jed@bushrat.com 

www.bushrat.com 

Shaper: Woody Jack 

Dimensions: 

5’5”x 19 5 /8 x 2 ½“ 

Ideal conditions: 1-5 foot 

Suits: Smaller beachies 

and point breaks 

Ability: Intermediate to 

advanced surfers 

Description: pigmented 

twin fish 

Construction: 

Burford polyurethane 

blank, with 6oz pigment 

Fins: FCS FK2 

Shaper comment: Great 

fun when the waves are a 

little smaller and gutless. 

Super responsive from top 

to bottom, but also holds 

plenty of speed out on the 

face of the wave... A really 

fun board for summer. 

WOODY JACK 

SURFBOARDS AUSTRALIA 

Unit 7, 25 Leonard Parade, 

Currumbin QLD 

Ph: 0415 789 706 

E: wjboards@gmail.com 

www.woodyjack.com 

Shaper: Thomas Bexon 

Specs: 5’6” x 19 ¼” x 2 ¼” 


Head high to double over. 

Suits: This size board 

is built for around a 

75kg guy, but scale the 

dimensions up and down 

to suit your size. 

Ability Level: 

Intermediate to advanced 

Description: A mini 

Bonzer inspired by 

Campbell brothers 

Bonzers, widow makers 

and two-plus-one fin 

setup boards. There’s 

plenty of drive, plenty of 

hold and yet still lots of 

release. 

Construction: PU foam, 

polyester resin, screen 

printed fiberglass cloth. 

Fins: Two glass-on keel 

bonzers with centre box. 


call me 

THOMAS 

SURFBOARDS 

VISIT THE SHOWROOM: 

175 Noosa-Eumundi Rd, 

Noosaville QLD 

PO Box 239 

Noosa Heads QLD 4567 

Ph: 0412 131 491 

thomas_bexon@hotmail.com 

thomassurfboards.com 

Shaper: Marty Allen 

Dimensions: 

5’10” x 20 ¼” x 2 3 / 8” 

Ideal: 1-4 foot 

Suits: Someone looking 

for a fun, fast and unique 

board that produces quick 

and flicky turns. 

Ability: 

Beginner to advanced. 

Description: A wider 

forward outline, flat and 

wide, with forgiving rails 

and a nice kick in the tail 

for tight turns. Features 

low rocker and radical 

concaves to get you deeper 

in the pocket to smash out 

those critical manoeuvres. 

Construction: PU or XTR 

using A-grade materials. 

Fins: Quad + 1 FCS or 

Futures set-up. 


Available in 5’ and 

up, with tints, sprays, 

pigments... You name it. 

A lot of testing has gone 

into the Hawk Tail with 

insane results. 

UNDERGROUND SURF 

3/77 Noosa Drive 

Noosa Heads, QLD 4567 

Ph: 07 5455 4444 

kirra@undergroundsurf.com.au 

undergroundsurf.com.au 

Like us on Facebook 


BOARDS WITH WHEELS 

ARBOR 

RIDER COMP 

WRAPS UP 

Newest Arbor team rider Dylan Reid 

Arbor’s search for a fresh face is 

over, with a very happy Dylan Reid 

(above) taking the top spot of a year’s 

full sponsorship including boards 

and apparel. Rod Ball of Arbor here 

in Australia was very impressed by 

Dylan’s video clips, self-produced 

with a GoPro camera and filmed on 

Sydney’s Northern Beaches and the 

hills of Wellington in NZ. (To check 

the clips out yourself, look up “Sic 

Clint” on YouTube.) 

Levi Cranston (above) 

from the Sunshine 

Coast came in a close second with his 

surf-influenced skate style, as did Todd 

Berecz (below) of Woonona. Both score 

themselves an Arbor skatebooard and 

t-shirt. For more on Arbor and to check 

out the seriously unbelievable range of 

boards, see the Arbor website at 

www.arborcollective.com. 

mar/apr 2012 

111

TEST 

EVERYTHING 

“DON’T KNOCK IT TILL 

YOU’VE TRIED IT” 

ROAD TRIP living 

WORDS: JEFF MORRIS 

Last edition, we had a chance to experience the Britz Navigator motorhome. This edition smorgasboarder 

NZ man, ‘Jiff’ got to compare notes and spend some quality time in the Maui Mercedes Ultima. 

When the smorgasboarder “All Black” edition 

needed to be distributed around the South 

Island, a call to our friends at Maui for a van 

was definitely the smart choice. 

“A two-person camper would be great if one 

is available please.” 

What I got was a luxury Mercedes Ultima 

campervan, and thought “Well this’ll do nicely, 

thanks very much.” 

Throw in 700 shiny new magazines and a bag 

of gear and let’s go! There was still plenty of 

storage room left. 

I got a call from home on Tuesday morning... 

Really bad weather heading my way, minus 5 

degrees and plenty of snow forecast. 

“No problem Dear. Maui have supplied snow 

chains, two duvets plus blankets and I’m not 

afraid to use them.” 

After seeing everyone in Christchurch and 

talking my head off as usual, I realised the day 

was disappearing and I better get down to 

Timaru before closing time. 

Grabbed some supplies for dinner and 

breakfast and got into town well after dark. 

Again, no problem: Turn on the heater, nuked 

a meal in the on-board microwave and settled 

down to a few wines and a DVD. 

Outside temperature minus 1 but who cared? 

With a shower and toilet on board plus the 

van being so spacious I wasn’t getting on my 

own nerves and I definitely didn’t have to go 

112 jul/aug 2012 

outside to change my mind. Talk about selfcontained! 

Feeling romantic, I put on the downlights 

and enjoyed the 5-star atmosphere. After a 

comfortable two-duvet night’s sleep, I awoke 

to find a winter wonderland outside. 

After some breakfast, I unplugged the van 

(jeez, it’s cold out here) and hit the road, 

dropping off mags as I went to Dunedin. 

Queenstown, Wanaka, Lake Tekapo – the van 

drove like a dream, was really comfy in the 

driver’s seat (no sore back) and after all that 

snow the scenery is unbelievable. 

Arriving back in Christchurch on Thursday 

night there was snow and ice everywhere, 

but once again the van had no trouble in the 

challenging conditions. A busy few days, but 

the Maui Ultima made it a comfortable and 

stress free breeze. 

To book see maui-rentals.com 

Baby it’s cold outside, but it’s warm in here. 

SPECificationS 

• Suits two adults 

• Three different bed configurations 

• Shower and Toilet 

• 3 burner gas stove, exterior slide out 

gas BBQ and Microwave 

• Fridge/Freezer (80 litres) 

• Floor safe 

• Radio, CD player, LCD screen and DVD 

player with external Speakers 

• Awning is available for hire on request 

• Internal walk through access 

• Solar panel 

• Pressurised hot and cold water 

• Air conditioning and heating 

• Exterior fold-out table 

• 140 litres fresh water tank 

• 80 litres waste water tank 

• Plenty of storage room for surfboards 

LEFT: A more summery vision of the Ultima... 

BBQs in the sunshine on the beach! Photo: Maui


113


BEHIND AN ICONIC 

CALIFORNIAN 

SURFBOARD LABEL 

WITH DEWEY WEBER BOARDS NOW AVAILABLE IN 

AUSTRALIA, WE WENT TO FIND OUT A LITTLE MORE OF THE 

STORY BEHIND THE NAME. 

CLOSEOUT: BUSINESS 


Dewey Weber is recognised as one of 

surfing’s all times greats, first noted 

for his surfing in the 50s. In the 60s 

he was known as one of the most 

innovative surfboard manufacturers. 

Dewey was born in Denver Colorado 

but later moved with his family to 

Manhattan Beach, California. As a 

young boy he would sit atop the local 

pier and watch the likes of Dale Velzy 

and other members of the Manhattan 

Beach Surf Club. 

At age nine, he started surfing 

himself and within two years had 

got the knack of it. Dewey was later 

sponsored by Velzy and even ended 

up managing his Manhattan Beach 

Surf Shop. 

He was part of the legendary class 

of ’57 who headed over to Hawaii 

and pioneered that famous stretch of 

coast known as the North Shore. 

Dewey appeared in numerous surf 

films of the era such as Bud Browne’s 

Cavalcade of Surf and Goin’ Surfin’, 

Bruce Brown’s Slippery When Wet, 

John Severson’s Angry Sea, Dale 

Davis’ Inside Out, and Greg Noll’s 

Search for Surf. 

Upon returning to California in 1960 

he began Dewey Weber Surfboards. 

He enlisted the best of the best 

and his elite stable of team riders 

included Nat Young, Randy Rarick, 

David Nuuhiwa, Rell Sunn, Mike 

Tabeling and Jackie Baxter to name 

but a few. Pretty soon Dewey was 

making 300 boards a week, the most 

notable being the Weber Performer. 

Just as Dewey heralded the age of 

hotdogging in surfing he showed 

as much flair in business, doing 

everything with flamboyance and style. 

THE NAME LIVES ON 

Whilst Dewey himself passed away 

in 1993 his memory lives on with his 

family continuing to build surfboards 

and associated merchandise under 

the Dewey Weber label. 

The Weber family has dedicated 

themselves to the continuance of 

Dewey’s commitment to excellence in 

all their product lines. And perhaps, 

most importantly, they have remained 

‘close to the soul’ of the surfing lifestyle. 

As Shea Weber, now President of 

Dewey Weber, puts it, “We don’t follow 

industry standards... We set our own. 

We have very definite ideas on how 

we develop and produce our products. 

We have a responsibility to not only our 

consumers, but to our heritage. 

“Each shape and material is tested 

and taken to the limits by members of 

the Dewey Weber Competition Team. 

“DEWEY WEBER ISN’T JUST 

A LONGBOARD COMPANY, WE 

ARE A SURFBOARD COMPANY... 

ALWAYS HAVE BEEN.” 

The company currently boasts different 

shapes, from traditional longboards to 

performance shortboards. 

DEWEY WEBER ARRIVES 

The legendary Californian surf icon’s 

gear is now available in Australia. 

Adam and Michelle Jenkins have 

recently become the Australian 

distributors for Dewey Weber’s boards 

and merchandise. Adam gave us a 

little insight into his new venture. 

“Its about preserving a classic name 

that shaped the surfing world back in 

the 60s... Bringing back that era that 

has been lost. 

“I have a passion for the old school 

style of surfing and also the history 

behind these great shaper’s names. 

“My main aim is to make sure names 

like Dewey Weber - the little man on 

wheels - continue to be known well 

into our generation of surfing and 

beyond.” 

For more information or to get in 

touch with Adam, visit the website: 

www.deweyweber.com.au 

RIGHT: Dewer Weber Surfboards 

circa 1964 

ABOVE: The man himself, back in the day. 

Photos supplied courtesy of the Weber family. 


115

THE MORE THINGS CHANGE, 

THE MORE THEY STAY THE SAME 

Surfer: Orbit 

Sponsored rider 

Scott ‘Whippy’ Denis 

(photo: Simon Punch) 

FEELS LIKE 

A NEW MAN 

Back in our very first edition of smorgasboarder we 

had a close look at an iconic surf shop on the NSW 

South Coast - Southern Man Surf in Ulladulla. The 

same store that began some 38 years ago has most 

recently undergone one massive transformation. A 

‘facelift’ would be an understatement, there’s been 

more work done here than on Shane Warne’s face. 


NEW 

LOCATION, 

SAME GREAT 

SERVICE, BEST 

BRANDS & 

FRIENDLY STAFF 

38 years on, surfers still surf and 

Southern Man Surf still stands strong as 

Ulladulla’s original and best surf shop. 

For personal service and a great range of fashion 

and accessories, surfboards, skateboards, 

bodyboards and much more, visit Southern Man Surf 

shop in Ulladulla on your next surf trip. 

CALL US: (02) 4454 0343 

T7/119 Princes Hwy, Ulladulla 

The Woolworths Centre 

Ulladulla NSW 2539 

WWW.SOUTHERNMAN.COM.AU 

LIKE US ON 

Southern Man has not only moved premises down 

the road to the new Woolworth’s Centre, but has 

also created a whole new shopping experience. The 

store has been segmented into unique shopping 

zones that individually cater for men, women and 

children showcasing the latest gear from the likes of 

Billabong, Quiksilver, Roxy, Rip Curl and Rusty. 

Undeniably one of the biggest, brightest and freshest 

surf stores on the entire South Coast, the new 

Southern Man store is a real feelgood story amongst 

all the recent economic gloom. 

Kent Saunders explained the move and how the new 

store has been received. 

“After 28 years in our old location we found that 

we had outgrown the building. Further to this, in 

our existing space and location we were unable 

to provide the shopping experience that our core 

customers needed. For the above reasons we looked 

for a larger store. With the help of retail architect and 

avid surfer, Jim Buda, we wanted to redefine the way 

people will think of the ‘surf shop’ on the South Coast 

for the next ten years.” 

Aside from all the bells and whistles, the store and its 

team headed by Juanita and Kent still remain true to their 

roots. You’ll still find superb surfboards by local shaper 

Vern Jackson, boards by Channel Islands and more. 

“We’re still the same privately-owned coastal country 

town surf shop we’ve been since 1974. Our greatest 

strength continues to be our personal, informed and 

down-to-earth customer service. Our strong sense of 

family also still remains with my wife Juanita, sons 

Tim and Martyn, along with Perry, Sam, Dani, Sterling, 

Bryce, Elyse, Jamie-Lee and Tash making up our team. 

“It has been a terrific team effort bringing the new 

store to fruition. Everyone has put in some enormous 

hours and we also couldn’t have done it without the 

assistance of Toni Ashcroft VM, Bruce Turner, Adam 

and Jenn from GSM as well as Charissa of Otis and 

the guys at MP Construction who were able to bring 

the project under budget and on time.” 

The new Southern Man Surf is located in the 

Woolworth’s Centre at 119-122 Princes Highway, 

Ulladulla, just 200 metres down from the old store 

closer to the centre of town. Another thing that 

remains unchanged is the opening hours -seven days 

a week - rain, hail or shine - aside from Christmas day. 

As for the old site of Southern Man, Kent says, 

“Watch this space for further surf concept 

developments this coming summer.” 

www.southernman.com.au 



CLOSEOUT: BUSINESS 

“ WE’RE STILL THE SAME 

PRIVATELY-OWNED 

COASTAL COUNTRY TOWN 

SURF SHOP WE’VE BEEN 

SINCE 1974.” KENT SAUNDERS, 

SOUTHERN MAN 


117

CLOSEOUT: HISTORY 

The infamous and highly sought 

after surfboard manufacturer on the 

Gold Coast in the late 70’s, Aragorn 

Surfboards, was formed by a couple of 

surfing louts - Steve ‘Zorro’ Goddard and 

his good mate Bruce Greig. The boys 

built their first factory on Golden Four 

Drive in North Kirra in 1976, just in time 

to celebrate Zorro’s 21st birthday. 

The Aragorn factory crew made 

up of Zorro, Bruce, Wayne Deane, 

Michael Peterson and Tommy Peterson 

were well-known for their constant 

misbehaving and wild times consisting 

of surfing, parties, beers, women and 

horrible substances. 

Steve Goddard was dubbed Zorro 

during his time as a barman at the 

popular Patch nightclub in Coolangatta 

by one of the locals. He had tall, 

dark, good looks, a moustache and 

wore fitted black pants with a white 

stripe down the side. He was also 

well known for his radical surfing and 

carving big ‘Z’s in the waves, so the 

nickname stuck. 

Aragorn surfboards were known for 

speed and maneuverability and were 

some of the wildest shapes on the 

Gold Coast – almost as their wild as 

their sprays. These were outrageous, 

made up of rude, psychedelic, gory or 

comical designs. For the local surfing 

crew, they couldn’t get enough of 

them. People were totally blown away 

and the boards were walking out the 

door at a rapid pace. The only other 

sprays at the time were taped line 

fades and basics, whereas Aragorn’s 

were the full airbrushed works and the 

rudest and crudest of the seventies. 

As far as the Aragorn crew were 

concerned, the wilder the better. 

Visiting American surfer Mike Purpose 

and his mates caught wind of these 

boards and asked Zorro to make the 

Hot Lips Aragorn models, which were 

sold through Kirra Surf. Zorro was 

later written up in the New York Times 

as being the most insane shaper and 

surfer on the Australian coast. He 

was also asked to do Ben Aipa’s label 

in Australia but due to decal royalty 

costs, he turned it down. 

At this stage Zorro was shaping 

Peter Drouyn’s personal boards using 

Drouyn’s decals and shaping Aragorn’s 

for Raymond Manicaros, Serena 

Townend (Peter’s sister), big wave 

surfer Tony Rae, Reg Riley and more, 

but the most famous was Michael 

‘MP’ Peterson. 

Aragorn Surfboards paid $500 for 

MP to enter the Inaugural Stubbies 

competition at Burleigh in 1977, which 

was a huge amount at the time, but of 

course, MP made history on his selfshaped 

Aragorn and brought home the 

trophy, so the investment was worth it. 

In 1979, Aragorn moved from Golden 

Four Drive to MP’s factory in Appel 

Street, Kirra where they joined forces 

and added kneeboards to the offering. 

The Aragorn surf shop also opened 

in Kirra, which Bruce ran while Zorro 

focused on the manufacturing. At this 

point Zorro had taken on other labels 

such as Ocean Boulevard, sold through 

Peter Drouyn’s Surfline store in Surfers 

Paradise, and was making fifteen 

boards a week. He’d drop them off on 

a Friday afternoon and by lunchtime on 

Saturday they were all sold. 

Even though they were producing boards 

at this high level, the Aragorn crew were 

still a wild bunch. One Christmas party 

they glassed a radio and a resin penis 

onto fin-maker Feather’s brand new 

custom board. As the party progressed 

and there were no waves to be surfed, 

they decided to sacrifice it to Huey, and it 

was set alight. 

The next day Feather turned up to 

pick up his new stick and was not 

impressed after hearing the story. 

Needless to say, they made him 

another one and he left a happy surfer. 

In true form, Kirra turned on 6 foot 

slabs that day and the Aragorn boys 

were out getting barreled all day long. 

Zorro’s memory of that time: “Wild 

sh*t went on!” Once they carved a 

tunnel on the deck of one of Peter 

FAR LEFT: The Aragorn 

‘Penta Fin’ 

LEFT: Michael Peterson (RIP) with a 

modern Aragorn single fin. 

ABOVE: ‘Penta Fin’ details. 

Photos supplied, Underground Surf. 

THE WILD TIMES OF ARAGORN SURFBOARDS, KIRRA 

1976 – 1981 WORDS: ANDRE ‘ONDI’ MARSAUS 

Turner’s boards and glassed in some 

cockroaches, which they were amused 

to tell people stayed alive for 3 

months. 

In 1980, Zorro caught up with his good 

mate Simon Anderson in Narabeen, 

who was telling him about the 3-fin 

thruster concept. By the next day Zorro 

had flown back to Queensland and was 

in the factory shaping one up. Graham 

Black was watching Zorro create this 

weird looking thing and told him he 

was tripping, but Zorro was surfing it 

that afternoon and look at the world of 

thruster’s now! 

In 1981, Zorro and Bruce parted ways 

and Zorro kept the manufacturing 

side while Bruce kept the retail going 

and continued shaping the legendary 

Aragorn kneeboards. 

In 2010, Underground Surf 

co-incidentally opened in Kirra in the 

same spot as the original Aragorn 

Surfboards 30 years beforehand, 

with a focus on retro surfboards. 

Underground teamed up with Zorro 

and re-birthed the label with the 

original templates and now produces 

Aragorn’s hand-shaped modern 

single and twin fin surfboards. 

The smorgasboarder history 

page is proudly brought to 

you by Underground Surf 

WWW.UNDERGROUNDSURF.COM.AU 

New surf shop, old-school feel 

3/77 Noosa Drive, Noosa Heads, QLD 

PHONE: 07 5455 4444 

RETRO LONGBOARDS & SHORTBOARDS • NEW & CUSTOM BOARDS • BOARD HIRE • REPAIRS• SKATEBOARDS • CLOTHING • AND MUCH MORE... 


ECOLOGY & 

SURF TRAVEL: 

NATURAL 

ENEMIES? 

CAN YOU REALLY LEAD A GREEN LIFESTYLE 

AND STILL FEEL GOOD ABOUT TRAVELING IN 

SEARCH OF THE PERFECT WAVE? AND IF WE 

WANT TO BE GREEN, DOES THIS MEAN WE 

HAVE TO GIVE UP THE GIFT OF SURF TRAVEL? 

As surfers, we love to travel. Most of us 

dream of finding that perfect, uncrowded 

wave and enjoying the ocean on a different 

part of the earth than our regular break. 

Surfing endless tropical barrels, venturing 

deep downunder to the chilly waters of NZ 

or living the Californian dream – it doesn’t 

really matter, if there are new waves on 

offer most of us will jump at the chance to 

ride them. 

So does the inevitable plane trip to 

reach these oceanic wonders come at an 

ecologically unfriendly price? Well, yes 

if your alternative is to stay at home and 

walk or bike to the beach. But put into 

perspective your conscience will be relieved 

to discover that recent findings suggest it’s 

not all bad. The aviation industry has now 

been overtaken by the IT industry in terms 

of their CO 2 output. So even just turning off 

your computer daily when it’s not in use can, 

over a year, help to counteract the negative 

impact of an annual surf trip. 

Reports also show that an aeroplane gets 

about 20.4km to the litre per seat. Longer 

flights are more efficient, newer planes are 

better, but on average it’s 10.4k/l. Thus, 

traveling solo in an SUV is more harmful in 

terms of emissions than buying a plane ticket. 

Of course, there is also the more touchyfeely 

aspect to global surf travel... We 

can help educate the masses and expose 

pollution, before it becomes irreversible. 

So go forth and enjoy that next trip to Indo, 

but counter your ecological footprint along 

the way by boycotting polluted areas and 

visiting places that embrace eco-tourism 

and sustainability - the waves will be just as 

good and you’ll not be eating plastic within 

the walls of the green room either. 

Nicola O’Reilly is the better half of 

the nice folks from Surfing Green, a 

couple passionate about providing 

sustainable surfing products. 

www.surfinggreen.com.au 

POINTS 

OF VIEW 

STOP THE 

SCREAMING 

& SHOUTING 

AND GET WET 

The other day I visited my local surf (dog) 

beach with my trusty Labrador Lizzy who is 

teaching my wife to body surf. Yes that’s 

right. The black two-year-old lab loves the 

surf and chases after the frisbee, turns 

around when the wave is about to break, and 

bodysurfs her way into the beach. 

Further along the beach I was curiously 

watching a young personal trainer take his 

clients for a beach session. Two things really 

struck me: Firstly, it’s about time he dropped 

the army screaming and yelling technique, 

which is not only old hat, but disturbing to 

think that he didn’t know that most of us - the 

rational ones at least - don’t want or need to 

be yelled at or bullied to get a good workout. 

As I continued to watch I noticed a woman 

who looked about forty-five years old huffing 

and panting her way around a wooden 

boardwalk out of sight of the personal 

trainer. She was carrying a lot of weight, 

particularly around her waist, and looked 

like she was about to have a coronary. She 

was obviously far too heavy to be running, as 

her joints and connective tissue would have 

been taking a pounding. No doubt she was 

working hard and doing her best, however I 

thought I would have to give CPR any minute. 

I’m not a big fan of this type of training as 

many people are at such a different level 

of fitness. It’s hard to manage these larger 

groups effectively. If you were a nineteenyear-old 

male who’s fit and just entered the 

army you may just get away with this. 

I’ve watched trainers push people above their 

ability level and inevitably they leave, never 

to return to fitness ever again. It’s our job to 

effectively assess our clients’ fitness, coach 

them slowly at a comfortable level, encourage 

them, and build a good rapport with them so 

they feel safe and happy to return. 

It’s really important that personal trainers 

have the ability to work and understand 

the needs of the very young to the very 

old. Personal trainers need to know how 

our bodies change as we age and what is 

appropriate for these different age groups 

and also have an understanding of rehab in 

relation to those coming back from injury. 

So perhaps ditch the khakis and don the 

boardies. It’s fun, makes you feel great. You 

don’t feel like you’ve just enlisted and it’s 

relatively low impact. 

John Hart is a qualified fitness 

instructor and personal trainer with 

a Masters in Education who writes 

books, trains and rehabilitates people, 

takes photos, directs movies and is 

happy to share what he’s learned. 

www.johnhartfitness.com 

Nose & Paddle Guards, 

Rail Tape & Leash Plugs 

Pro Teck Fins 

Travel Safe Repair Kts 

SURFTECH AUSTRALIA 

www.surftechaustralia.com.au 

02 4226 1322

MEET THE TALENT 

SHAPING UP WELL 

Regular smorgasboarder readers will be familiar with Clayton Beatty - the face behind TotalSurfingFitness.com and the regular fitness 

column in the magazine. He goes surfing at his local beach when the waves are on and spends time on a balance board in his home gym 

when they’re not. He’s an exercise scientist from Perth with a website that provides workouts for surfers to help improve fitness and 

generally whip you into shape for surfing. We asked Clayton what got him inspired to create the site and his business, and figured - being a 

travel edition that he gives us his pointers on getting fighting fit to make the most of a trip. 

“I grew up in the South West of WA and 

used to bodyboard up until my early 20s. By 

that stage a few of my mates had switched 

over to stand up and I decided to make the 

change myself. What got to me early on was 

how much I struggled with the fitness side of 

surfing, especially paddling out to the line up. 

“I remember lots of times, even surfing small 

waves, how long it would take me to paddle 

out and how frustrated I would get. By the 

time I got out, my arms would be so fatigued I 

would have no energy left to pop-up properly, 

even if I managed to paddle onto a wave. 

“This was frustrating me for quite a while as 

I wasn’t getting out in the water consistently, 

so it was like I was starting over, learning to 

surf every time I got in the ocean. 

“Around the same time I was studying 

exercise science at university. I was keeping 

reasonably fit playing other sports and going 

to the gym, but none of that seemed to make 

much of a difference to my surfing. I was 

doing more traditional bodybuilding-style 

workouts at the gym and even managed to 

injure my knee going too heavy on the leg 

press machine. This led to minor knee surgery 

to repair some cartilage damage. 

“Not long after my knee surgery I had a 

snowboard trip planned to Canada with some 

mates, and knowing I had to rehabilitate 

my knee effectively, it lead me to start 

doing some more research into strength 

and conditioning for extreme sports like 

snowboarding and surfing. 

“Unfortunately I couldn’t find much specific 

training information, so I set about learning 

more about general sports conditioning so I 

could apply it to surfing and snowboarding, 

whilst adding a few of my own tweaks to the 

workouts. 

“This changed my training style from more 

isolated muscle exercises to focusing on 

multi-joint functional movements, using more 

free weights and bodyweight training tools as 

opposed to machines. 

“The results in my own training were that 

I was moving a lot more efficiently and the 

injury niggles were starting to disappear. 

I also found my surfing start to improve. I 

noticed that I could pick up where I left off 

when I surfed, even if I had been out of the 

water for a month or so. 

“In early 2008 I thought it would be a good 

idea to share my training ideas with other 

surfers so I created TotalSurfingFitness.com 

and uploaded a comprehensive, 12-week 

functional training program using only 

dumbbells and a swiss ball. Straight away, I 

started getting surfers from all over the world 

using my workouts to improve their surfing 

fitness and I was getting great feedback on 

their results. 

“Since that time Total Surfing Fitness has 

just kind of snowballed into what you see 

today. I have since added other workouts 

and programs including snowboarding and 

skiing, and have also added more advanced 

workouts using lots of different functional 

training equipment. I‘ve also revised the 

workouts, updating them to my current 

training philosophies. 

“My programs are now used by surf and 

snow athletes from all over the world, men 

and women, from teenagers to older surfers 

in their 50s, 60s and even a few in their 

70s. A large portion of surfers who use my 

programs are those that are getting prepared 

to go on a surf trip to make sure they are 

going to maximise their time in the water. 

“I understand the importance of staying in 

shape when you don’t get to surf all the time. 

So, hopefully people can learn something 

from my training advice and use it to enhance 

their surfing fitness and catch more waves.” 

120 jul/aug 2012

CLAYTON’S 

GET FIT TIPS FOR 

YOUR SURF TRIP 

MAKE 

THE MOST 

OF IT 

CLOSEOUT: FITNESS 

If you’re planning a surf trip in the near future now 

is a good time to start thinking about getting your 

body fit for the trip. Don’t spend all that time and 

money, then wind up pulling a muscle or being too 

fatigued to make the most of the waves on offer. 

So here’s the low down on how to get in shape and 

make the most of your surfing expedition. 

HOW LONG BEFORE THE TRIP SHOULD I 

START MY FITNESS TRAINING PROGRAM? 

It’s best to start your training plan at least a couple 

of months out from your trip to make sure you have 

enough time to get in shape. I would recommend 

three months training time, however you could still 

benefit from as little as four weeks training time. 

HOW MANY WORKOUTS EACH WEEK? 

You can get results with 2-3 workouts per week, 

however if you really want to make the most of it I 

would go for three functional strength workouts per 

week and three cardio workouts per week. You can 

also substitute cardio training for surfing, because 

at the end of the day, the best way to improve your 

surf specific cardiovascular fitness is to surf more. 

WHAT SHOULD MY WORKOUTS CONSIST OF? 

The warm-up 

Start with a good 5-10 minute warm-up to get 

ready for the workout. Instead of the traditional 

cardio warm-up, a smarter idea is to do bodyweight 

exercises that promote joint mobility, muscle 

activation and fundamental movement patterns. This 

will help prevent injury and improve your movement 

skills in addition to preparing your body to exercise. 

Bodyweight exercise like squats, lunges, push-ups, 

jumping jacks and so on are a great place to start 

for the warm-up. 

Functional Strength 

The next part of your workout should focus 

on functional strength exercises to build total 

body, multi-joint strength. Think about training 

movements, not muscles. To build a balanced 

body you should be doing exercises that include 

movements such as squatting, lunging, pushing, 

pulling, and lifting as well as exercises that promote 

balance, core stability and rotational strength. 

The most efficient way to train is to do the exercises 

either in a circuit or in supersets (where you do two 

or more exercises in succession with minimal rest). 

This allows you to work different muscle groups 

without having to spend as much time resting 

between exercises, which means a faster more 

efficient workout. 

You don’t need access to a gym, in fact you can do a 

great workout at home using only a set of adjustable 

dumbbells and a swiss ball. For your lower body 

try strength exercises like dumbbell squats, split 

squats, lunges and single leg straight leg deadlifts. 

For you upper body you can do exercises like 

dumbbell rows, swiss ball chest press, pull-ups and 

dumbbell shoulder presses. 

Finally you need to incorporate some core and 

balance training using exercises like planks, swiss 

ball rollouts, swiss ball jack-knifes, dumbbell chops 

and swiss ball balancing (on your knees or half 

kneeling). 

Cardio Training 

This can be done after the strength component 

or on the alternate days. For cardio exercise 

there are a number of different options such as 

running, riding, skipping, boxing, rowing, etc. If 

you have access to a pool or are near the ocean 

then swimming can be of great benefit as you can 

improve your lung capacity and also build some 

endurance in your arms and shoulders which can 

transfer into improved paddle fitness. 

If you don’t have a pool nearby you can also try band 

paddling to increase your paddle fitness. Do this 

by lying chest down on a swiss ball and paddling 

against the resistance of a light exercise band. This 

is a simple exercise you can do at home and can 

enhance the endurance in your arms and shoulders 

which is critical for a surf trip. 

The best cardio workout should be interval based 

where you do periods of harder work, mixed with 

recovery periods. This has been scientifically proven 

to effectively improve both your anaerobic (short 

burst) energy system and aerobic (longer duration) 

energy system, which is important for surfing. For 

example if you were swimming you could do a lap 

fast or sprinting followed by a lap slower recovery, 

then repeat for 10-20 laps. If you were running you 

could do 20 seconds fast, followed by 40 seconds 

recovery, repeat for 10-15 minutes. 

Stretching / Flexibility 

The final part of your workout should consist of 

some good old fashioned stretching to help promote 

increases in flexibility and aid in muscle recovery. 

Try and stretch all of your major muscle groups and 

hold stretches only to the point of tension, not pain. 

Once you have done this, that is your workout 

complete. A good total body workout like the one 

above shouldn’t take much more than an hour or so. 

Most of us have busy lives, so this is a good amount 

of time to spend exercising. 

OTHER SURF WORKOUT TIPS 

• Include some foam rolling (or self massage) 

before your warm-up to help improve muscle 

tissue quality and loosen any tight muscles. 

• Change up your routine about every 4 weeks 

to keep things fresh and challenging. 

• Drink plenty of water and eat a healthy diet – 

lots of fruits and vegetables, lean protein and 

wholegrains. 

• Surf as much as possible before the trip! 

• Ease back in your training about a week 

before you leave to make sure your body is 

fully recovered for the trip 

WHAT SHOULD I DO DURING THE SURF TRIP? 

So you have arrived at your destination and the lines 

are rolling in. What now? First thing is keep eating 

healthy to make sure you have plenty of energy. You 

can probably eat a few more carbs the day before 

a long surf, however don’t try and do anything to 

dramatically different to normal - just listen to your 

body. Stay well-hydrated before your surf sessions. 

Make sure you warm-up before you get in the water. 

You can do some stretching on any tight muscle 

groups, but make sure you also do more of an active 

warm-up, as this is a more effective way to get your 

body ready for the waves. Roll your arms around, 

do some squats and lunges to warm-up your knees, 

legs and hips and do some trunk rotations. This will 

help prevent any unwanted muscle strains and get 

your body switched on and ready to go. 

Finally, do some recovery work after each session. 

Stretching and foam rolling are the easiest options 

here and will do wonders for keeping your muscles 

in working order. Apart from that, catch lots of 

waves and get plenty of rest! 

SO THERE YOU HAVE IT. 

That’s my blueprint for getting fit for your next surf 

trip. If you want a comprehensive, step-by-step 

workout plan that maps out every exercise to get 

you in peak physical condition for the surf, visit 

www.TotalSurfingFitness.com and download the 

12-week functional training plan. 

LEFT: Clayton puts his 

fitness to use 


121

SURF TRIP ACCOMMODATION 

Planning 

QUEENSLAND 

NEW SOUTH WALES 

a surfing holiday or weekend away? These fine accommodation options offer great 

proximity to surf beaches in some of Australia best surf spots and beyond. Get out there. 

TASMANIA 

PORTOBELLO BY THE SEA 

 

6 Beerburrum St, Dicky Beach 

Caloundra 

Fantastic surf spots right on 

your doorstep. Moffat, Neill 

Street, Dicky Beach all within 

a 5 minute walk. Luxury 

accommodation within 50 m of 

some of the best restaurants 

Caloundra has to offer. 

Proximity: Across from 

patrolled Dicky Beach, on-site 

dining and shopping. 

Phone: 07 5491 9038 

E: info@portobellobythesea.com.au 

www.portobellobythesea.com.au 

From $325 for two nights. 

SHAMBHALA @ BYRON 

14 Childe St, Byron Bay 

Majestic, hidden beachfront 

just minutes to the heart of 

town. Relax after a day in the 

surf in our ambient and tranquil 

environment. Beautiful rainforest 

setting with private spas, 

steam room, sauna. Perfect for 

couples or families. 5-star, selfcontained 

tree house retreats. 

Proximity: Absolute beachfront, 

on surf friendly Belongil beach. 

15 m walk to centre of town 

P: 1-800-SHAMBHALA 

E: enquiries@shambhala.org.au 

www.shambhala.org.au 

From $279 per night 

Quote promo code: SURF AD 

SOUTHVIEW BULLI 

19 Southview Street, Bulli 

Southview is a bed & breakfast 

and self contained holiday 

accommodation, nestled 

between Sandon Point Beach 

and Bulli Beach. Recently 

rated 4.5 stars by AAA tourism 

it is the perfect place to 

unwind and perfect for the 

surfer and their family. 

Proximity: Nestled Between 

Sandon Point and Bulli Beach 

Telephone: 02 4268 6303 

E: info@southviewbulli.com.au 

www.southviewbulli.com.au 

From $145 per couple 

KIAMA COVE BOUTIQUE MOTEL 

10 Bong Bong St, Kiama 

UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT 

Kiama Cove Boutique Motel is 

in a fantastic location right near 

the heart of Kiama overlooking 

Surf Beach. The motel offers 

ocean views, king sized beds in 

most rooms, off-street parking, 

free Austar, swimming pool 

and a fabulous sun lounge area 

overlooking the beach. 

Proximity: Right on Surf 

Beach and a short stroll to the 

main street of Kiama. 

Phone: 02 4232 4500 

E: info@kiamacove.com.au 

www.kiamacoveboutiquemotel.com.au 

Room rates are from $90 

to $200 for family rooms 

MARRAWAH BEACH HOUSE 

19 Beach Road, MARRAWAH 

The Beach House is located on 

an organic beef farm on the wild, 

west coast of Tasmania. The 

comfortable, self contained twobedroom 

cottage has spectacular 

views of the Southern Ocean 

and easy access to the beach. 

The perfect base to explore the 

wilderness of the Tarkine and 

Arthur River areas. 1 ½ hrs drive 

from Burnie Airport and 2 ½ hrs 

drive from Devonport Ferry. 

Proximity: Close to quality reef 

and beach breaks as well as the 

local general store and hotel. 

P: 03 6457 1285 or 0428 571 285 

E: marrawahbeachhouse@activ8.net.au 

Rates from $140 per night 

VICTORIA 

COOLANGATTA SANDS HOSTEL 

Cnr McLean and Griffith Street, 

Coolangatta 

Your ultimate surf HQ! 

Where else can you find some 

of the world’s best beaches and 

beach breaks on your doorstep 

- Kirra, Snapper Rocks, D-Bah, 

Rainbow Bay, Greenmount and 

Coolangatta? Free breakfast, free 

pick-up, economical shared and 

private rooms. Stay three nights 

and you can travel to Byron Bay 

for free on our shuttle bus! Part of 

the Coolangatta Adventure Crew. 

Proximity: Across from great 

surf breaks, restaurants, nightlife 

Phone: 07 5536 7472 

E: hostel@taphouse.com.au 

www.coolangattasandshostel.com.au 

Rates from $29 per night 

9 Shirley Street, BYRON BAY 

Outrigger Bay is the perfect Byron 

getaway for the ultimate relaxing 

holiday. With direct access to 

the beach, these fabulous 2 or 

3 bedroom apartments are not 

only in a stunning location but 

are also so close to Byron’s great 

restaurants and bars. This is 

an ideal location for a surfing 

holiday with the family or a 

group of friends. 

Proximity: DIRECT ACCESS to 

beach - only 50m walk. 2 min 

walk to town centre shops. 

P: 02 6685 8646 

E: info@outriggerbay.com 

www.outriggerbay.com 


NOVOTEL WOLLONGONG 

NORTHBEACH 

2-14 Cliff Rd, North Wollongong 

Stunning ocean views, 

spacious, light filled rooms and 

a reputation for exceptional 

service has made Novotel 

Wollongong Northbeach 

one of New South Wales’s 

most popular getaway and 

business venues. Opposite 

North Wollongong beach, 

the 4 ½ star hotel boasts 204 

rooms and suites. Catering for 

both the leisure and business 

traveller, there’s a range of 

facilities and services including 

pool, spa, fitness centre, day 

spa, restaurant and two bars. 

Proximity: Beach 50m, CBD 

2km, train Station 1km, Sydney 

Airport 70km 

Phone: 02 4224 3111 

www.novotelnorthbeach.com.au 


SILVERWATER RESORT 

17 Potters Hill Rd, San Remo 

Spacious one, two and 

three-bedroom self-contained 

apartments all with spectacular 

bay views and modern 

conveniences. 

Complementing the 4.5 star 

accommodation is an excellent 

range of resort facilities 

including indoor and outdoor 

pool, billiards and games room, 

tennis and basketball courts, 

restaurant and bar. 

Proximity: Five mins to surf 

beach, two mins to town 

Phone: 1800 033 403 

res@silverwaterresort.com.au 

www.silverwaterresort.com.au 


SCAMANDER BEACH SHACK 

130 Scamander Ave, SCAMANDER 

This is the ultimate authentic 

beach shack and only $130 

per night, anytime of the 

year! Amazing location 

right opposite Tasmania’s 

premium east-coast surfing 

beach. Uninterrupted views of 

waves and the Scamander River 

mouth provide breathtaking 

scenery sitting in the comfort 

of the shack. An ideal getaway 

for surfers and their families or 

keen fisherpersons plus a cosy 

getaway for a couple. 

Proximity: Right opposite 

Scamander Beach. 

Phone: 0400 912 583 

www.scamanderbeachshack.com 

$130 per night, all year round 

TV 

gym 

laundry 

kitchen 

parking wi-fi pool airconditioning family-friendly pet-friendly spa 

bbq 


Keen to hop on a plane? 

Accommodation now further afield! 

NEW ZEALAND 

PIWIWIWI SURF 

CAMPERVAN RENTALS 

Raglan NZ 

DON’T STAY... EXPLORE! 

The only campervan rentals 

company in New Zealand aimed 

at surfers. Vans are kitted out 

with all the gear you need 

including straps to hold your 

boards safe INSIDE the van. 

PiwiWiwi is a small, friendly 

company based in the magic 

surf town of Raglan. 

Transfers to and from 

Auckland Airport available. 

Raglan Office: +64 7 825 0974 

NZ Free Phone: 0800 74 94 94 

E: info@piwiwiwi.co.nz 

www.piwiwiwi.co.nz 


CHRISTMAS ISLAND 

TRAVEL TIPS: 

WINTER WONDERLAND 

FEATURED PROPERTY: 

PORTOBELLO 

BY THE SEA 

Dicky Beach, 

Queensland 

“Portobello By The Sea is located opposite beautiful 

Dicky Beach, an unspoilt stretch of sun-drenched 

white sand, on Queensland’s magnificent Sunshine 

Coast. Dicky Beach is patrolled every day, and 

is known for both safe swimming and excellent 

surfing, and is great for walking and fishing. With 

other famous surf breaks nearby, such as the point 

break at Moffat, and the always reliable Neil and 

Ann St breaks, Dicky Beach is the place to enjoy 

some great surf conditions, as well as enjoying a 

beach holiday with family and friends. 

“Portobello by the Sea offers spacious, fully 

equipped 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments for your 

holiday. Enjoy the heated lagoon style pool, tropical 

gardens and barbeques. All the services you need 

(restaurants, takeaway, convenience store, bakery, 

butcher, chemist, BWS, etc) are on site or next door, 

and the Surf Club is across the road for lunch and 

dinner 7 days. 

Discover Portobello By The Sea and see for yourself 

why it’s the perfect place to stay & surf!” 

Call 07 5491 9038 for more info, or email: 

info@portobellobythesea.com.au 

WWW.PORTOBELLOBYTHESEA.COM.AU 

ADVERTISE 

IN SURF 

ACCOMMODATION 

Super-affordable rates for 

the smallest of budgets. 

Call 0401 345 201 

CHRISTMAS ISLAND SURF 

NO CROWDS! GREAT SETUPS! 

London Village, Kiritimati 

AU$1,395 per week/guest. 

This includes: Airport 

transfers, accommodation, all 

meals and daily boat transfers 

to the best waves. 

Check out ‘Kiritimati Island’ 

on Google Earth. We have no 

crowds yet and many, many 

set-ups. Be one of the first to 

surf this new discovery. Flights 

go via Fiji with Air Pacific’s ‘Bula 

Saver’ airfare special. 

Proximity: 100m walk to 

London’s waves, half hour boat 

ride to Paris’ waves. 

P: + 64 027 4484 598 

E: info@christmasislandsurf.com 

www.christmasislandsurf.com 

Call us crazy but we consider the appeal of our southern 

states even stronger during winter. ‘Why in hell…? 

you ask... The swell is generally best during the cooler 

months and the crowds in the water and about town 

are well down. That means more waves less queues, 

everything is way cheaper and there is nothing better 

than relaxing after a refreshing surf with a cup of coffee, 

a craft beer or fine wine in front of a roaring log fire. 

TASSIE’S WILD WEST 

We have heard so much about this 

place it ranks amongst the top in our 

to-do list. On the wild west coast of 

Tas with spectacular views of the 

Southern Ocean. $140 a night. 

marrawahbeachhouse@activ8.net.au 

AND A BREAK IN EAST TASSIE 

Just down the road from the stunning 

Bay of Fires is Scamander. Expect peaky 

but surprisingly powerful lefts and 

rights. Uninterrupted views to the beach 

from your own shack. $130 per night. 

www.scamanderbeachshack.com 

PUMPING WAVES & PAMPERING 

San Remo is at the gateway to Phillip 

Island, one of our favourite all time 

surf spots. Quality waves, penguins, 

Rusty Water microbrewery and good 

times. $99 a night in the luxurious 

Silverwater Resort is further 

motivation to visit. (Conditions apply) 

See www.silverwaterresort.com.au 

DIRECT FLIGHTS Air New Zealand 

and Virgin now offer direct flights 

between Maroochydore on the 

Sunshine Coast and Auckland. Never 

been a better excuse to hop the ditch. 

THIS PIC: 

Christmas Island surf 

GET OFF THE GRID 

There are still surfing frontiers 

relatively unexplored. Translucent 

waves and twenty-four class breaks 

in just five kilometres. 

Where? Christmas Island. 

Not the island you’re thinking of at 

the centre of so much local news, 

this is Christmas Island, part of the 

Republic of Kiribati. It’s way, way out 

in the Pacific Ocean, south of Hawaii. 

Check it out on Google Earth. 

www.christmasislandsurf.com 



Brought to you by 

Noel Mooney - 0417 756 076 

coolumbusinessandtourism.com 

SURF TRIP ACCOMMODATION 

COOLUM BEACH 

Welcome to a world of beachbreaks, boosts, barrels and brilliant fun - Coolum Beach on the Sunshine Coast 

North Shore. Beyond the tourist strip of Mooloolaba and just south of the righthand pointbreaks of Noosa, the 

water here is warm all year ‘round and there’s no shortage of surf breaks. It’s a true surfers playground and a 

top destination with a unique personality and charm. Here are your top choices for accommodation. 

EXECUTIVE 

ACCOMMODATION 

Managing over 25 executive 

beach homes and apartments 

from Twin Waters through 

to Coolum Beach, Coolum 

Holidays has the perfect 

property to indulge all of your 

needs while on vacation. 

All of our executive properties 

are tastefully decorated 

throughout and provide a 

high standard of facilities 

including swimming pool, air 

conditioning, bbq and pay 

television. Accommodating 

singles, couples and families, 

our portfolio of executive 

accommodation will surely not 

disappoint. 

P: 1300 303 423 

www.coolumholidays.com.au 

From $1300 a 

week, shorter 

stays available 

PET-FRIENDLY 

ACCOMMODATION 

Take your four legged friend 

on your next holiday! Enjoy a 

stress free holiday knowing 

your pet is safe with you. Pet 

friendly holidays are becoming 

increasingly popular and Coolum 

Holidays has 30 holiday homes 

that specialise in providing the 

right accommodation for you 

and your pooch. All our holiday 

homes adhere to strict policies 

and conditions so that your 

holiday with your beloved pet is 

safe, secure and comfortable. 

A $110.00 non refundable pet 

fee applies to all bookings 

made – a small price to pay for 

peace of mind. 

P: 1300 303 423 


From $490 a 

week, shorter 


YOUR CHOICE OF 

HOLIDAY APARTMENTS 

Managing an array of self 

contained apartments on the 

beautiful North Shore, Coolum 

Holidays will help you find the 

perfect apartment to relax in 

whether it be for two nights or 

two months. 

Stay in one our apartments and 

stretch out with more privacy 

and space than a hotel room, 

perfect for an extended stay or 

corporate accommodation. 

We can offer you a great deal 

on one, two and three bedroom 

apartments – phone our friendly 

booking consultants today. 

P: 1300 303 423 


From $490 a 

week, shorter 


COOLUM BEACH 

GETAWAY RESORT 

3-7 First Ave, Coolum Beach 

A modern 4½ star resort. 18 

spacious, air-conditioned 1, 2 

& 3 bedroom townhouse-style 

units and apartments with 

self-contained kitchens, laundry 

and lock up garage. Tropical 

gardens, heated pool and spa, 

half tennis court, plus bike and 

surfboard hire. One street back 

from the beach with a quiet, 

pleasant family atmosphere. 

Proximity: Only a short stroll 

to Coolum’s fabulous beach, 

alfresco dining and shopping. 

Located centrally on the 

Sunshine Coast, the tourist 

attractions, world-class golf 

courses and rainforest walks are 

all within easy driving distance. 

P: 07 5471 6759 F: 07 5471 6222 

Australia: 1300 723 263 

E: info@getawayresort.com.au 

www.getawayresort.com.au 

Phone for your special price 

SEACHANGE COOLUM BEACH 

1864 David Low Way, Coolum Beach 

A world away from the 

everyday... 35 boutique holiday 

apartments with style and 

character... The ideal retreat for 

your tropical getaway. Designed 

to be different from the rest, 

Seachange features fully selfcontained 

one, two bedroom 

and family apartments - some 

with private rooftop spas and 

ocean views, all immaculately 

presented by resident managers 

who offer you personalised 

friendly service. 

Isn’t it time you experienced 

Seachange? 

Proximity: Walking distance to 

beach, local shops, restaurants 

P: 07 5471 7799 

F: 07 5446 5380 

Freecall: 1800 008 112 

info@seachangecoolumbeach.com.au 

seachangecoolumbeach.com.au 

Call for best rates 



SURFING COOLUM 

Surf spots within close vicinity include Coolum main beach 

where a consistent left-hander reels in from in front of the 

surf club. At the southern end of the beach below the lookout 

at Point Perry, when the swell is 4 foot plus, a quality righthander 

can break close to the rocks. This wave is definitely the 

standout when it’s on but typically a place for the chargers in 

the surfing community. 

Just over the headland the FIRST and SECOND BAY (from the 

water it is really one bay) are also popular and fairly consistent. 

Although surrounded by rocks, the bottom is largely sand and 

the lefts and rights can be found depending on where you 

want to sit. In rare conditions, THIRD BAY breaks but this is 

definitely rocky and risky. 

COOLUM CAPRICE 

1770 David Low Way, 

Coolum Beach 

Located right in the heart of 

Coolum Beach, our ocean view, 

fully self contained apartments 

cater for couples, families and 

groups. With 1, 2 or 3 bedroom 

apartments to choose from, 

Coolum Caprice boasts the best 

views and location in town. 

Proximity: Middle of town, 

walking distance to shops and 

restaurants. Directly across 

the road from the beach and 

Surf Club. 15 minutes Sunshine 

Coast Airport and 1½ hours 

from Brisbane Airport. 

Phone: 07 5446 2177 

E: relax@coolumcaprice.com.au 

www.coolumcaprice.com.au 


Smorgasboarder reader special: 

Call today for 20% off! 

ENDLESS SUMMER RESORT 

9-21 Frank St, Coolum Beach 

This is the perfect place to stay 

in Coolum for holiday resort 

accommodation. Ideal for 

couples or the whole family. 

Choose from fully self-contained 

and spacious apartments 

located in a peaceful setting, 

away from traffic, but only a 

100m stroll to the surf beach, 

main restaurants and sidewalk 

shops. Fantastic 25m heated 

pool, waterslide, children’s 

playground and mini golf on-site. 

Proximity: 100m to patrolled 

surf beach and shops. 

Phone: +61 7 5471 9800 

E: holiday@endlesssummerresort.com 

www.endlesssummerresort.com 

Keep an eye on our web page 

for specials throughout the 

year or call direct to ask for our 

special surfer’s rates. 

COOLUM SEASIDE 

6-8 Perry St, Coolum Beach 

Perfectly positioned to take 

full advantage of the Sunshine 

Coast’s natural scenic beauty 

and holiday attractions. Our 

fully self-contained AAA 5-star 

rated one to four bedroom 

apartments are air conditioned 

and have Austar, LCD TVs, CD 

& DVD players. Roof terraces 

are available with majestic 

coastal & hinterland views. 

Facilities include 3 heated 

pools, 4 spas, tennis court, 

gymnasium, internet lounge/ 

library and poolside barbecues. 

Proximity: Short stroll to 

patrolled beach, shops, cafes 

and restaurants. 

Phone: 1800 809 062 

E: info@coolumseaside.com 

www.coolumseaside.com 

Check our specials online 

COOLUM MOTEL & 

BUDGET ACCOMMODATION 

1862 David Low Way, Cnr Ann St, 

Coolum Beach 

Coolum Motel is ideally 

located across from beautiful 

Coolum Beach. We offer a 

variety of room types ranging 

from Private Ensuited Rooms 

to Budget and Backpacker 

style and facilities. For a 

family friendly venue offering 

fantastic deals and discounts - 

Stay with us! 

Proximity: Short walking 

distance to restaurants, shops 

and clubs. 

Phone: 07 5471 6666 

E: info@coolummotel.com 

www.coolummotel.com 

From only $ 35 per night. 

Quote this magazine for 

20% DISCOUNT! 

Dates and conditions apply 

ELEMENT ON COOLUM BEACH 

1808 David Low Way, 

Coolum Beach 

This is seaside luxury right 

on Coolum Beach. These self 

contained luxury Coolum beach 

apartments combine the best 

of urban chic and beachside 

living. Stay in either a one, 

two or three bedroom holiday 

apartment right in the heart of 

Coolum and right across from 

Coolum Beach. Surf all day 

and stay in style at Element on 

Coolum Beach. 

Proximity: 1 minute walk to 

beach, shops and restaurants. 

Phone: 1300 139 744 

stay@elementoncoolumbeach.com.au 

www.elementoncoolumbeach.com.au 

From only $149 per night in 

a one bedroom apartment 



SURF DIRECTORY 

QLD CENTRAL COAST 

REEF 2 BEACH SURF SHOP 07 4974 9072 

Shop 1, 10 Round Hill Road Agnes 

Water/1770 www.reef2beachsurf.com 

THE BACK OF GLENN CAT’S VALIANT 

Anywhere from Agnes Waters to Noosa 

FRASER COAST 

RAINBOW BEACH TRADING CO. 

07 5486 8558 Shop 1 & 2, 14 Rainbow 

Beach Rd, Rainbow Beach 

SUNSHINE COAST 

NOOSA SURF WORKS 07 5474 4567 

1/11 Bartlett St, Noosaville www. 

shotgunsurf.com www.lagunabaysurf.com 

WATERLINE 07 5474 1010 - 2/15 Venture Dr, 

Noosaville, www.zeewetsuits.com 

CLASSIC MALIBU AUSTRALIA 07 5474 3122 

Cnr Gibson and Eumundi Rds, Noosaville, 

www.classicmalibu.com 

LOCAL KNOWLEDGE 07 5474 1222 

3 Gibson Rd, Noosaville 

GOLDEN BREED 07 5455 3722 - 15 Noosa Dr, 

Noosa Heads, www.goldenbreed.com.au 

NOOSA LONGBOARDS 07 5447 2828 

2/55 Hastings St, Noosa Heads 

www.noosalongboards.com 

UNDERGROUND NOOSA 

3/77 Noosa Drive, Noosa Heads 

www.undergroundsurf.com.au 

SURF SHOP 07 5471 3489 - 224 David Low 

Way, Peregian Beach, www.surf-shop.org 

COOLUM SURF 07 5351 1742 - Birtwill St 

Coolum Beach www.alexsurfshop.com.au 

BLUE LINES 07 5351 1986 - 1776 The 

Esplanade, Coolum Beach 

WALLY’S WATER GALLERY 07 5448 8560 

6 Lorraine Beach, Marcoola Beach 

BOARDSTORE SURF 07 5448 7025 

15 Mudjimba Esp, Mudjimba 

WEIR’S INSIDE EDGE 07 5443 4143 

14 Memorial Ave, Maroochydore 

DA BOMB 07 5451 0620 - 3/25 Plaza Pde, 

Maroochydore www.dabombsurf.com.au 

OCEAN ADDICTS 07 5309 6624 - 

103-105 Aerodrome Rd, Maroochydore 

www.oceanaddicts.com.au 

ALTERNATIVE SURF 07 5475 4811 

11/140 Alexandra Pde, Alexandra Headland 

BEACH BEAT 07 5443 2777 - 164 Alexandra 

Pde, Alexandra Headlands; 07 5491 4711 

119 Bulcock St, Caloundra 

www.beachbeat.com.au 

ALEX SURF 07 5452 6276 

188 Alexandra Pde, Alexandra Headland 

www.alexsurf.com.au 

WORLD SURFARIS 1800 611 163 

2/174 Brisbane Rd, Mooloolaba 

www.worldsurfaris.com 

THE FACTORY 07 5492 5838 - 15 Allen St, 

Caloundra thefactorysurf.com.au 

SLS SURFBOARDS 0424 314 183 

2/57 George St, Moffat Beach 

www.slssurfboards.com.au 

SURFWARE AUSTRALIA 07 5491 3620 

2 Bulcock St, Caloundra 

BRISBANE 

PRIMITIVE SURF 07 3266 1001 - 601 

Nudgee Rd, Nundah primitivesurf.com 

GOODTIME SURF & SAIL 07 3391 8588 

29 Ipswich Rd, Wooloongabba 


FIIK Unit 2/3366 Pacific Hwy, Springwood 

www.fiikskateboards.com 

COD 07 3207 0116 - 51 Ziegenfusz Rd, 

Thornlands www.codsurfing.com.au 

N TH STRADBROKE ISLAND 

MINTY SURFBOARDS 07 3409 8334 - Point 

Lookout www.bobmintysurfboards.com 

GOLD COAST 

KOMA SURFBOARDS 0402 863 763 

4/39 Bailey Crs, Southport komasurf.com 

SIDEWAYS 07 5592 3849 - 3012 Surfers Blvd, 

Surfers Paradise sidewaysboardsports.com.au 

STUART SURF DESIGN 07 5572 0098 

2576 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach 

www.stuartsurf.com.au 

BOARD CULTURE 07 5572 9866 

2442 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach 

www.boardculture.com.au 

LOCAL KNOWLEDGE 07 5526 6377 

2251 Gold Coast Hwy, Nobby Beach 

THE BOARDROOM 07 5527 7877 

2084 Gold Coast Hwy, Miami 

HARVEY SURF GALLERY 0414 557 624 

3/10 Pacific Ave, Miami www.harveysurf.com 

MT WOODGEE 07 5535 0288 

1730 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads 

07 5598 2188 - 2 Stewart Rd, Currumbin 

07 5536 5937 - 122 Griffith St, Coolangatta 

www.mtwoodgee.com.au 

PATAGONIA BURLEIGH James Street, 

Burleigh Heads www.patagonia.com.au 

SEAN SCOTT PHOTOGRAPHY 07 5520 2774 

Old Burleigh Theatre Arcade, Shop 10, 

Goodwin Tce, Burleigh Heads 

07 5599 1150 - Shop 3, 120 Marine Pde, 

Coolangatta seanscottphotography.com.au 

DICK VAN STRAALEN/ CLASSIC WATERMAN 

0409 262 729, 7/3 Ramly Dr, Burleigh Hds 

dickvanstraalen.com, classicwaterman.com 

SOUTHCOAST FOAM 07 5522 1600 - 15 

Greg Chappell Dr, Burleigh Gdns Estate, 

Andrews www.southcoastfoam.com.au 

GOLD COAST SURF WORLD 07 5525 6380 

Tomewin Street, Currumbin 

www.surfworldgoldcoast.com 

DMS 07 5559 5949 3/56 Currumbin Creek 

Rd Currumbin www.dmshapes.com 

SHAPERS 07 5534 4228 - 9/7 Traders Way, 

Currumbin www.shapers.com.au 

BURFORD REINFORCED PLASTICS 

07 5534 3777 - 5 Stewart Rd, Currumbin 

WOODY JACK SURFBOARDS 

0415 789 706 - 7/25 Leonard Pde, Currumbin 

DIVERSE SURF 07 5598 4848 - 476 Gold 

Coast Hwy Tugun www.diversesurf.com.au 

DORRINGTON SURFBOARDS 07 5599 4030 

16 Musgrave Street, Kirra 

www.dorringtonsurfboards.com 

KIRRA SURF/WORLD SURFARIS 07 5536 3922 

8 Creek St, Bilinga www.kirrasurf.com.au 

COOLANGATTA BOARD STORE 07 5536 7850 

152 Griffith St, Coolangatta 

www.cbsboardstore.com 

COOLY SURF 07 5536 1470 - Cnr Dutton St 

& Marine Pde, Coolangatta 

NSW NORTH COAST 

SIDEWAYS 07 5524 6699 - 13-21 Greenway Dr, 

Tweed Heads sidewaysboardsports.com.au 

FULL FORCE SURFBOARDS 07 5524 2933 

18/48 Machinery Dve,Tweed Heads 

SURF XCESS 02 6674 5350 

88 Marine Parade, Kingscliff 

CABARITA SURF SHOP 02 6676 3151 

1/38 Tweed Coast Rd, Cabarita Beach 

ELUSIV SURFBOARDS 

3/16 Coast Rd, Cabarita Beach 

BRUNSWICK SURF 02 6685 1283 

1/12 The Terrace, Brunswick Heads 

www.brunswicksurf.com.au 

McTAVISH 02 6680 8807 - 91 Centenial 

Circuit, Byron Bay www.mctavish.com.au 

ESP SURFBOARDS 0404 059 321 - 2/81 Centennial 

Circuit, Byron Bay www.espsurfshop.com.au 

PARKES AUSTRALIA 02 6685 6627 

4/83 Centennial Court, Byron Bay 

www.parkesaustralia.com 

MADDOG SURF CENTRE 02 6685 6022 

Ewingsdale Rd, Byron Bay maddog.com.au 

MC SURF DESIGNS 02 6685 8778 - 3 Banksia 

Drive, Byron Bay www.mcsurf.com.au 

MUNRO SURFBOARDS 02 6685 6211 - 29 Acacia 

St, Byron Bay munrosurfboards.com.au 

T&C SURF DESIGN / McCOY 02 6685 7485 

10 Acacia Street, Byron Bay 

BYRON BAY LONGBOARDS 02 6685 5244 

Shop 1 - 89 Jonson St, Byron Bay 

MADDOG BEACH SURF CENTRE 02 6685 6466 

4 Jonson St, Byron Bay www.maddog.com.au 

HO’OKUPU 02 6685 8861 - 2/9 Lawson St, 

Byron Bay hookupusurf.com 

UNPLUGGED 02 6685 7441 - Shop 1/ 2 Lawson 

St, Byron Bay www.unpluggedbyronbay.com 

LENNOX HEAD SURF SHOP 02 6687 7038 

71 Ballina St, Lennox Head 

ALL ABOVE BOARD 02 6687 7522 

68 Ballina St, Lennox Head 

MADDOG SURF CENTRE 02 6685 6094 

45 River St, Ballina www.maddog.com.au 

TRIPLE X WETSUITS 02 6686 3939 - 10 Piper 

Drive, Ballina www.triple-x.com.au 

GUNTHER ROHN 02 6681 5879 - 3/10 Piper 

Drive, Ballina www.guntherrohn.com 

THE PLANK SHOP 02 6645 8362 Top of the 

Hill, Yamba 

NSW MID NORTH COAST 

GANGSTA SURF 

1/15 Orlando Street, Coffs Harbour 

FLANAGAN SURFBOARDS 0432 361 694 

Unit 26, 22 Lawson Cres, Coffs Harbour 

www.flanagansurfboards.com 

Pick up the next edition of smorgasboarder at any of these fine businesses - out in September 

Businesses that advertise in smorgasboarder allow us to bring you the magazine for FREE. So, be sure to support them! 

WATER SURF+ART+CAFE 

Distinctively relaxed 

atmosphere, exceptional 

food, coffee and tea, great 

service, photographic 

art from Australia’s best 

photographers, exquisite 

gifts and select surfwear and 

boards. 

(02) 6651 4500 

370 Harbour Drive, Coffs 

Harbour Jetty 

www.watersurfartcafe.com 

THE LOG SHACK 02 6658 0223 - 392 Harbour 

Dve, The Jetty Strip, Coffs Harbour 

www.thelogshack.com.au 

OUTER ISLAND SURFBOARDS 02 6655 7007 

7 Bayldon Dr, Raleigh 

www.outerislandsurfboards.com 

VALLA SURFBOARDS 02 6568 8909 

8 Monro St, Nambucca Heads 

www.vallasurfboards.com.au 

COASTAL CURVES 02 6568 6902 - Ridge St, 

Nambucca Heads www.coastalcurves.com 

CRESCENT HEAD SURF CO. 02 6562 8306 

33 Smith St, Kempsey 

CRESCENT HEAD SURF SHOP 02 6566 0550 

Crescent Head Tavern, Crescent Head 

INNER VISION SURF ‘N’ SKATE 02 6583 7790 

80 William St, Port Macquarie 

SALTWATER WINE 02 6584 4877 

1/125 Gordon St, Port Macquarie 

www.saltwaterwine.com.au 

SANDY FEET 02 6584 1995 

5/21 Clarence St, Port Macquarie 

www.sandyfeetsurf.com.au 

JUNGLE SURF 02 6555 8556 - 86 Manning 

Street, Tuncurry www.junglesurf.com.au 

SALTWATER WINE 02 6554 7979 5 Wharf St, 

Forster www.saltwaterwine.com.au 

BOOMERANG BEACH SURF 02 6554 0351 

Shop 4, Boomerang Dve, Pacific Palms 

GRAFFITI SURF DESIGNS 02 4981 3409 

43 Donald St, Nelson Bay 

NEWCASTLE 

NEWCASTLE SURF DESIGNS 02 4968 9989 

4 Maitland Rd, Mayfield 

SAM EGAN SURFBOARDS 02 4969 7299 

28 Maitland Rd, Islington 

www.samegan.com.au 

SURF FACTORY 16 Maitland Rd, Islington 

www.thesurffactory.com.au 

BREAKAWAY SURF 02 4929 1144 - Shop 6 

Hunter Street Mall, Newcastle 

PACIFIC DREAMS 02 4926 3355 - 7 Darby St, 

Newcastle www.pacificdreams.com.au 

SANBAH SURF 02 4962 2420 - Shop 27, The 

Junction Fair, Union St, Newcastle 

www.sanbah.com.au 

BREAKAWAY SURF CO. 02 4943 2699 

181 Pacific Hwy Charlestown 

EGAN’S 02 4945 8055 

575 Pacific Hwy, Belmont 

THE SURF SHACK 02 4945 8965 

703 Pacific Hwy, Belmont South 

SWANSEA SURF SHOP 02 4971 4422 

164 Pacific Hwy, Swansea swanseasurf.com.au 

CENTRAL COAST 

BOARD CITY 02 4397 1092 - 150 Main Rd, 

Toukley www.boardcity.com.au 

ADRIFT SURF 02 4332 8355 - 133 The Entrance 

Rd, The Entrance www.adriftsurf.com.au 

BOARDERLINE SURF SKATE 02 4332 7175 

421 The Entrance Rd, Long Jetty 

www.boarderlinesurfskate.com 

SURFERS CHOICE 02 4334 6532 

473 The Entrance Rd, Long Jetty 

www.surferschoice.com.au 

BATEAU BAY SURF N SPORT 02 4332 1157 

101a Bateau Bay Road, Bateau Bay 

ONE EIGHTY SURF COMPANY 02 4385 8440 

Shop 2, 82a Ocean View Dve, Wamberal 

www.180surfco.com.au 

ALPINE BEACH 02 4367 4944 

177 The Entrance Road, Erina 

www.alpinebeach.com.au 

SLIMES 02 4365 5511 

1/203 The Entrance Rd, Erina 

THREE POINTS SURF 02 4382 1541 

170 Avoca Dve, Avoca Beach 

NORTHERN BEACHES 

BEACH WITHOUT SAND 02 9918 2763 

1a Nth Avalon Rd, Avalon 

RAISED BY WOLVES 02 9918 8861 - 40 Old 

Barrenjoey Rd, Avalon, 02 9997 4838 

Shop 3, 8-10 Waratah St, Mona Vale 

www.raisedbywolves.com.au 

LITTLE DRAGON 0403 974 967 

1 Bramley Lane, Newport Beach 

RON WADE SURF DESIGN 02 9979 7071 

23 Bassett Street, Mona Vale 

ronwadesurfboards.com.au 

CHANNEL ISLAND SURFBOARDS 02 9997 8266 

4/76 Darly St, Mona Vale cisurfboards.com 

QUIKSILVER MONA VALE 02 9999 3727 

1729 Pitt Water Rd, Mona Vale 

DIVISION SURF 02 9979 5334 

Cnr Bungan & Waratah Sts, Mona Vale, 

divisionsurf.com.au 

STAND UP PADDLE GEAR AUSTRALIA 

02 9986 3420 6/53 Myora Rd, Terrey Hills 

www.supgearaustralia.com 

BALMORAL BOARDS 02 9970 8600 

1228 Pittwater Rd, Narrabeen 

www.balmoralboards.com.au 

WICKS SURF CENTRE 02 9971 0760 

1103 Pittwater Road, Collaroy Beach 

LONG REEF SURF 02 9982 4829 

1012 Pittwater Rd, Collaroy 

www.longreefsurf.com.au 

WIND SURF ’N’ SNOW 02 9971 0999 

17 Anzac Ave, Collaroy 

www.windsurfnsnow.com.au 

THE PERFECT WAVE 02 9939 0890 

Suite 38, 42-46 Wattle Rd Brookvale 


BENNETT SURFBOARDS 02 9905 5157 

180 Harbord Rd, Brookvale 

DRIPPING WET SURF CO. 02 9977 3549 

398 Pittwater Rd, Mona Vale; 

02 9977 3549 - 93 North Steyne, Manly 

www.dripwetsurf.com 

SUNSHINE SURFING 02 9977 4399 - 89 Pittwater 

Rd, Manly www.sunshinesurfing.com.au 

ALOHA MANLY STYLE 02 9977 3777 

44 Pittwater Rd, Manly 

www.alohasurfmanly.com.au 

MANLY SURFBOARDS 02 9976 0591 - 46 North 

Steyne Rd, Manly www.basesurfboards.com 

SALTMOTION 02 9976 6518 Market Place, 

Manly www.saltmotion.com 

MANLY LONGBOARD CO. 02 9977 0093 

Shop 10, 74 The Corso, Manly 

www.manlylongboard.com 

SURFECTION 02 9969 1011 - 522 Military 

Rd, Mosman www.surfectionmosman.com 

SYDNEY 

PATAGONIA 93 Bathurst St, Sydney 

www.patagonia.com.au 

BONDI UNDERGROUND 02 9365 0870 

2/72 Campbell Pde, Bondi Beach 

DRIPPING WET SURF CO. 02 9300 0055 180- 

186 Campbell Parade Bondi Beach 

SURF CULTURE 02 9389 5477 - 40 Bronte Rd, 

Bondi Junction www.surfculture.com.au 

MAROUBRA SURF AND SKATE 02 9344 4250 

198 Marine Parade Maroubra 

CRONULLA SUTHERLAND 

EASTCOAST STAND UP PADDLE 

Dedicated to SUP - Sydney’s 

original Stand Up Paddle 

outlet. Performance, 

flatwater, race, and distance 

boards – we have a board to 

suit all skill levels. 

0413 456009 

0418 294854 

27 Throsby Close 

Barden Ridge 

eastcoaststanduppaddle.com.au 

LESSONS TOURS AND SALES 

Call Peter Japp on 

0488 887 SUP 

or 

0488 88 77 87 

sutherlandshiresupschool.com.au 

CRONULLA STANDUP PADDLEBOARD 

Everything to do with S.U.P 

Lessons, Hire, Sales of 

New and Used equipment, 

Accesories, Apparel & more 

02 9544 2293 

0400 085 823 

Shop 3,13-15 The Kingsway 

Cronulla, NSW 2230 

www.cronullasup.com 

JACKSON SURFBOARDS 02 9524 2700 

57 Captain Cook Drive, Caringbah 

www.jacksonsurfboards.com.au 

TRIPLE BULL 02 9524 4822 - 41 Captain Cook 

Dr, Caringbah; 02 9544 0354 - 23 Kingsway, 

Cronulla www.triplebullsurf.com 

CRONULLA SURF DESIGN 02 9544 0433 

8 Cronulla St, Cronulla 

www.cronullasurfdesign.com.au 

KING SURFBOARDS 02 9521 3645 

577 Princes Hwy, Kirrawee 

WOLLONGONG 

RETRO WOMBAT 02 4267 1322 

228 Lawrence Hargrave Dve, Thirroul 

www.retrowombat.com 

FINBOX BOARDSTORE 02 4268 2050 

1/269 Lawrence Hargrave Dve, Thirroul 

thefinbox.blogspot.com 

BYRNE SURF AND SKI 02 4226 1122 

-115 Princes Highway, Fairy Meadow 

byrnesurfboardsaustralia.com 

SURF PIT 02 4283 7196 - 2/100 Railway St, 

Corrimal www.surfpit.com.au 

SKIPP SURFBOARDS 02 4229 1202 

231 Crown Street, Wollongong 

(factory showroom); 02 4228 8878 

24 Flinders St, Wollongong 

www.skippsurfboards.com.au 

CARABINE SURF DESIGNS 02 4229 9462 

36 Flinders St, Wollongong 

NSW SOUTH COAST 

SHELLHARBOUR SURF & SKATE 02 4295 3373 

Shop 6, 32 Addison St, Shellharbour 

ZINK SURF 02 4233 1189 - 136 Terralong St, 

Kiama www.zinksurf.com.au 

NATURAL NECESSITY SURF SHOP 02 4234 1636 

115 Fern St, Gerringong www.nnss.com.au 

AQUATIQUE 02 4421 8159 - 125-127 Junction 

St, Nowra; 02 4441 5530 - 55 Owen St, 

Huskisson www.aquatique.com.au 

BUSTED SURF CO. 02 4447 3485 

10 Fairlands St, Culburra Beach 

OCEAN & EARTH 02 4441 2482 

12 Springs Rd, Sussex Inlet 

www.oceanearth.com 

SUN & SURF SHOP 02 4441 1938 

Shop 1, 168 Jacobs Dve, Sussex Inlet 

MARK RABBIDGE SURF DESIGN 0427 767 176 

441A Bendalong Rd, Bendalong 



AKWA SURF 02 4454 5222 - Shop 1, 

Mellick’s Corner, Princess Hwy, Milton 

www.akwasurf.com.au 

SOUTHERN MAN SURF SHOP 

02 4454 0343 -T7/119 Princes Hwy, 

Ulladulla www.southernman.com.au 

OFFSHORE SURF SHOP 02 4474 4350 

66 Vulcan St, Moruya offshoresurf.com.au 

NAROOMA SURF & SKATE 02 4476 1422 

30 Princes Hwy, Narooma 

DSC SURFBOARDS 0424 867 962 

Princes Highway, Narooma 

BERMAGUI SURF SHOP 02 6493 4849 

4/28 Lamont St, Bermagui 

RAW SURFBOARDS 02 6494 4466 

1291 Tathra Road, Kalaru 

www.rawsurfboards.com.au 

BUSHRAT SURFBOARDS - 02 6495 9900 

Widgeram Rd, Merimbula www.bushrat.com 

MERIMBULA SURF SHOP 02 6495 1515 

Merimbula Drive, Merimbula 

COUNTRY VIC 

SURF SHACK 03 5155 4933 

507 Esplanade, Lakes Entrance 

ATOLL TRAVEL 1800 622 310 - 4 Bridge 

Street, Foster www.atolltravel.com 

SERIOUS SURF STUFF 03 5674 2540 

1 Williams St , Inverloch 

VORTEX SURF & SKATE 03 5672 4112 

54 McBride Ave, Wonthaggi 

PHILLIP ISLAND 

OUTEREEF 03 5678 5677 - 73 Phillip Island 

Rd, San Remo www.outereef.com.au 

FULLCIRCLE SURF 03 5678 5873 

115 Marine Pde, San Remo; 03 5956 7453 

4-5 Vista Pl, Cape Woolamai 

www.fullcirclesurf.com.au 

ISLANTIS 03 5956 7553 - 10-12 Phillip 

Island Rd, Newhaven www.islantis.com.au 

ISLAND SURF CENTRE 03 5952 2578 

147 Thompson Ave, Cowes; 03 5952 3443 

65 Smiths Beach Rd, Smiths Beach 

www.islandsurfboards.com.au 

ISLAND SURF SHACK 03 5952 1659 

150a Thompson Ave, Cowes 

MELBOURNE 

ZAK SURFBOARDS 03 9416 7384 

319 Victoria Rd, Thornbury 

www.zaksurfboards.com 

TRIGGER BROS SURF & SAIL 03 9537 3222 

Shop 2, 1 St Kilda Rd, St Kilda 

www.triggerbros.com.au 

RPS (THE BOARD STORE) 03 9525 6475 

87 Ormond Rd, Elwood 

www.rpstheboardstore.com 

BRIGHTON SURF CO. 03 9593 2211 

43 Church St, Brighton 

SHQ BOARDSPORTS 03 9598 2867 

81 Beach Rd, Sandringham www.shq.com.au 

MORDY SURF CENTRE 03 9580 1716 

628 Main St, Mordialloc mordysurf.com.au 

PAULOWNIA SURFBOARD SUPPLIES 

03 9588 2533 - 45 Governor Road, 

Mordialloc paulowniaparadise.com.au 

OKE SURFBOARDS 03 9587 3553 

Factory 1 1-7 Canterbury Rd, Braeside 

www.okesurfboards.com 

TRIGGER BROS SURF & SAIL 03 9770 2223 

7 Rossmith St, Frankston; 03 5989 8402 

Point Leo Rd, Point Leo; 03 5984 5670 

46 Ocean Beach Rd, Sorrento 

www.triggerbros.com.au 

PENINSULA SURF CENTRE 03 9783 3811 

40 Wells St, Frankston; 03 5975 1800 

835 Nepean Hwy, Mornington; 

03 5985 4637 - 2137 Pt Nepean Hwy, Rye 

www.peninsulasurf.com.au 

BALIN 03 5986 6069 - 12 Newington Ave, 

Rosebud www.balin.com.au 

BEAN SURFING 03 5984 5199 

4 Ocean Beach Rd, Sorrento 

VIC SURF COAST 

MURFS LONGBOARDS 03 5255 5525 

82 The Terrace, Ocean Grove 

www.murfslongboards.com.au 

STRAPPER SURF 03 5255 2666 

67b The Terrace, Ocean Grove 

www.strapper.com.au 

STONKER TORQUAY 03 5261 6077 - 1a Baines 

Cr, Torquay www.stonker.com.au 

SURF WORLD 03 5261 4606 Surf City Plaza, 

Torquay www.surfworld.org.au 

TORQUAY SURF 03 5261 5666 - 3/108 

Surfcoast Hwy, Torquay 

STRAPPER 03 5261 3508 - 96 Surfcoast Hwy, 

Torquay; 03 5261 2312 - 106 Surfcoast Hwy, 

Torquay www.strapper.com.au 

WATERMARKS PHOTO GALLERY 03 5264 7232 

38-40 Bell Street, Torquay 

www.watermarksphotogallery.com.au 

TIGERFISH 03 5264 7271 - 12/15 Bell St, 

Torquay www.tigerfish.com.au 

ANGLESEA SURF CENTRE 03 5263 1530 

111 Great Ocean Rd, Anglesea www. 

secondhandsurfboards.com.au 

LORNE SURF SHOP 03 5289 1673 

130 Mountjoy Pde, Lorne 

HODGY’S SURF CENTRE 03 5237 7883 

143 Great Ocean Rd, Apollo Bay hodgys.com 

SHIPWRECK COAST 

PORT CAMPBELL TRADING CO. 03 5598 6444 

27 Lord Street, Port Campbell 

WARRNAMBOOL SURF CENTRE 03 5562 1981 

136 Koroit Street, Warrnambool 

SPOONS 03 5568 3452 

42 Sackville Street, Port Fairy 

TASMANIA 

LONG POINT SURF 03 6375 1717 

60 Burgess Street, Bicheno 

BAY SURF SHOP 03 6376 1755 

2 Pendrigh Place, St Helens TAS 

SCAMANDER BEACH SURFSHOP 03 6372 5529 

6 Lagoon Esplanade, Scamander 

www.scamandersurf.com 

RED HERRING www.redherringsurf.com.au 

03 6231 9001 - 75 Liverpool Street, Hobart 

03 6431 2455 - 12 Mount Street, Burnie 

03 6331 0984 - 127 Charles Street, Launceston 

03 6272 7552 - Shop 41, Northgate 

SOUTH AUSTRALIA 

BARREL SURF 08 8555 5422 - 10c Cadell St, 

Goolwa www.barrellsurf.com.au 

FLY BOARDRIDING (08) 8555 5331 

Shop 18, Goolwa Shopping Centre, Goolwa 

BIG SURF AUSTRALIA 08 8554 2399 

24 Goolwa Rd, Middleton 

SNOW & SURF TRAVEL 08 8223 5512 

Main Rd, Middleton snowsurftravel.com.au 

SOUTHERN SURF 08 8554 2375 

36 North Tce, Port Elliot 

THE SURF SHOP 08 8552 5466 -15 Albert 

Place, Victor Harbor thesurfshop.net.au 

SURF ESTEEM 08 8557 7201 - Aldinga Central 

Shopping Centre www.surfesteem.com 

THE DING KING / CLARK SURFBOARDS 

0422 443 789 - 7 and 8/9 Chapman Rd, 

Hackham leightonclark01@yahoo.com.au 

PREECE’S SOUTH PORT SURF 08 8386 0404 

159 Esplanade, Port Noarlunga South 

www.preece-sthport-surf.com.au 

FLY BOARDRIDING 08 8386 0100 

Shop 41 Seaford Shopping Centre 

www.flyboardriding.com.au 

ONBOARD SURF WIND SNOW 08 8294 3866 

21 Saltfleet St, Port Noarlunga; 1-3 Lights 

Landing, Holdfast Shores, Glenelg 

www.onboardsurf.com.au 

MV2 08 8382 2468 

36 Beach Road, Christies Beach 

CUTLOOSE SURF 

The largest range of surfboards, mals, 

SUP’s, wetsuits & 2nd hand boards 

is SA with over 300 boards in stock. 

Custom boards and SA’s cheapest 

ding repairs on site. 30 years and still 

going strong… 

OPEN 7 DAYS - 08 8326 0939 

4 Piping Lane, Lonsdale, SA, 5160 

www.cutloosesurf.com.au 

MID COAST SURF 08 83845522 - 8/200 Dyson 

Road, Lonsdale www.midcoastsurf.com.au 

EXTREME BOARDRIDERS 08 8295 1219 

1/118 Jetty Rd, Glenelg 

JRS SURF & SKI 08 838 47466 - Centro 

Colonnades; 08 8377 0322 - Westfield 

Marion; 08 8223 5505 -121 Grenfell St, 

Adelaide CBD; 08 8231 9577 - Myer 

Centre, Adelaide CBD; 08 8396 4822 

Tea Tree Plus www.jrssurfandski.com.au 

WALLBRIDGE SURFBOARDS 08 8376 4914 

27 Oaklands Rd, Somerton Park 

www.wallbridge.com.au 

SNOW & SURF CO. 08 8332 0900 

177 The Parade, Norwood 

www.snowsurf.com.au 

YORKES SURF 08 8854 4008 Marion Bay 

DING REPAIRS 

BUSTED YOUR BOARD? 

GET IT FIXED HERE... 

AGNES WATER/1770 

REEF 2 BEACH 

Mon-Sat, 9-5pm, Sun,10-4pm 

07 4974 9072 

MOFFAT BEACH 

EPOXY BOARD REPAIRS 

By appointment 

0427 019 420 

THE FACTORY SURFBOARDS 

Mon, Wed-Friday 9am-5pm, Saturday 

8am-12pm 

(07) 5492 5838 

SLS SURFBOARDS 

Mon, Wed, Fri 11- 5pm, Sat 8 - 12pm 

0424 314 183 

NOOSA 

UNDERGROUND SURF 

7 days, 9am - 5pm 

07 5455 4444 

BRISBANE 

PRIMITIVE SURF 

Mon-Fri 8:30-5:30pm, 

Thurs 8:30am - 8pm, 

Sat 8:30 - 4pm, Sun 10am -4pm 

07 3266 1001 

SOUTHPORT 

KOMA 

Mon-Fri 9am -5pm, Sat 9am -12pm 

0402 863 763 

MIAMI 

DINO’S DING REPAIRS 

Mon - Fri 9am - 5pm, Sat 9am - 12pm 

0409 727 735 

TUGUN 

DIVERSE 

Mon-Fri 8:30am - 5:30pm 

Sat & Sun 9-4pm 

07 5598 4848 

KIRRA 

GRB SURFBOARDS 

Mon - Fri 10am - 4pm 

Sat 10am - 2pm 

0408 701 467 

TWEED HEADS 

FULL FORCE 


07 5524 2933 

BYRON BAY 

DR DING 

SURFBOARD REPAIRS 

Mon-Fri 8am - 5pm 

Sat 10am - 4pm, Sun 10am - 2pm 

0431 740 940 

MC SURF DESIGNS 

Mon - Fri 9am - 5pm, Sat 9am - 1pm 

02 6685 8778 

LENNOX HEAD 

QUICKFIX SURFBOARD REPAIRS 

Mon - Fri 10am-5pm 

0432 361 791 

02 6681 3142 

YAMBA 

PLANK SHOP 

02 6645 8362 

TOMBSTONE SURFBOARDS 

Tues - Fri 9am - 4pm, Sat 9am - 12pm 

0432 330 826 

BUDGEWOI 

BUCKO’S SURFBOARD 

REPAIRS & RESTORATIONS 

Mon-Fri 10am - 5.30pm 

Weekends by appointment 

0422 304 078 

LONG JETTY 

SANDLOCK SURFBOARDS 

Mon - Fri 9am - 4pm, Sat 9am -12pm 

0437 032 614 

WOLLONGONG 

SKIPP SURFBOARDS 

Mon-Fri 9am - 5:30pm 

Thurs 9am - 7:30pm 

Sat 9am - 4pm, Sun 10am - 4pm 

02 4228 8878 

JERVIS BAY 

INNER FEELING SURFBOARDS 

Seven days, 9am - 5pm 

02 4441 6756 

NAROOMA 

DSC SURFBOARDS 

Seven days, 9 - 5pm 

0424 867 962 

BELLARINE PENINSULA 

ROUSA SURFBOARDS 

Mon-Sat, 10am-5pm, 

0403 693 333 

THORNBURY 

ZAK SURFBOARDS 

Mon - Fri 10am - 6pm, 

Sat 10am - 5pm 

03 9416 7384 

TORQUAY 

STONKER 


03 5261 6077 

THE SURFERS SHED 


0437 246 848 

PHILLIP ISLAND 

ISLAND SURF 

SHOP - COWES 

7 days, 9-5pm 

03 5952 2578 

ADELAIDE 

WALLBRIDGE 

SURFBOARDS 

Mon - Fri, 12.30pm - 5.30pm 

Sat 12.30pm - 5pm 

08 8376 4914 

MID COAST 

THE DING KING 

CLARK SURFBOARDS 


0422 443 789 

SEAFORD 

LIQUID STIX 

SURFBOARDS 


Sat & Sun 9am - 3pm 

0407 606 685 

RAGLAN, NZ 

RAGLAN LONGBOARDS 

7 days, 10am to 5pm 

except winter - catch us if you can 

+64 7 825 0544 

FIX BROKEN BOARDS? 

Promote your repair business 

for $15 an edition. 

Call 0401 345 201 



SURF DIRECTORY 

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Small surf businesses,cool products and more! 

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* For travel Overseas or in Australia 

Get your SURF TRAVEL INSURANCE from 

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GOING FOR A SURF? 

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Buy direct from importer online or by phone: 

www.ksq.com.au * $4,000 Video Camera 

sales@ksq.com.au * $12,000 0409 762 040 Luggage cover 

* Costs from only $67 a week 

MAKING A SURFBOARD? 

Get your SURF TRAVEL INSURANCE from 

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Please contact Dave of Surfing Green 

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GRAND DAMES 

& OLD FARTS 

WORDS: LIBBY WINTER, PHOTOS: IAN BORLAND 

Tension was high in the days leading up to the most 

highly anticipated Over 50s event on the longboard 

calendar, the Noosa Malibu Club’s 8th annual Wrecks & 

Relics get-together on 23 & 24 June. 

After a few weeks of grinding sets on all the points and 

Indo at the river mouth, the ocean had transformed into 

a millpond. But the Gods smiled and Saturday dawned 

to pumping knee-slappers breaking across the bank 

between the Groynes. 

Contenders gathered from as far away as Tassie, Victoria 

and New Zealand, with a sizeable contingent from 

northern NSW. Everyone pitched in to get the gear to 

the beach, the Noosa Navies, the Burleigh Boys and the 

Caloundra Crew leading by example. 

This year two unique age divisions were introduced, 

the Over 60 Women and the premier Men’s Over 69ers, 

each attracting four hot contenders and creating much 

speculation on the expected outcomes. 

The surf improved as the tide pushed in throughout 

the morning. After the first heats, everyone put in their 

teeth and munched on their fruit, muesli, yoghurt, eggs 

& bacon. After more surfing, delicious hot curries were 

served to warm everyone’s cockles as the younger men 

continued their battle for a place in the pre-final heats 

the following day. 


May2012_Smorgas_001.indd 1 

10/05/12 8:06 PM 

EVERYDAY 

SURFING, 

NO HYPE 

IN A GRASSROOTS SURF MAG 

WITHOUT A COVER PRICE OR A HEFTY 

SUBSCRIPTION COST. 

Main: Ladies of the Over 50’s division. Above: Serious old farts, the Over 65s. 

Photos: Ian Borland 

The swell jumped slightly on the Sunday. It was another early start and 

another cold cloudy day, but nothing could dampen the enthusiasm of 

the competitors on finals day! Everything ran like clockwork, the peer 

judges coached along by the resident accredited experts. The odd 

controversial interference occurred, as the young bucks in the Over 

50s got serious, but it was the Over 60s who owned the strongest 

competitive streak. 

The finals got underway as the kitchen crew cooked up marinated tofu, 

thai chicken patties and big tender steaks, and the waves kept coming. 

The anticipation grew as the climax of the event approached and Claw, 

Big Wave, The Brute & Mex donned their rash shirts & entered the 

water for the Over 69ers final. 

A generous donation from John Madill Toyota purchased the fabulous Old 

Farts trophies again this year, John himself being a regular and ever-smiling 

competitor at the event. Also attending on a regular basis is Pete White from 

Classic Malibu who supplied the surfboard for the competitors’ draw. This 

year was a 9’ 3” traditional longboard that Pete based on John’s original 

Gordon & Woods - a secret collaboration between major sponsors. 

The tallies were completed and the trophies handed out while a few cold 

Summer Brights were enjoyed in the cool winter dull. The winners would 

take another issue to list so go to noosawrecksandrelics.com instead. 

Bruce Wilson was the happy winner of the Classic Malibu surfboard, but we 

are all winners in the end! It’s always great to make it through another day. 

DON’T RISK 

MISSING AN 

ISSUE. 

GET SIX EDITIONS - ONE YEAR 

HOME-DELIVERED FOR JUST $21.* 

SMORGASBOARDER.COM.AU 

* Australia only. For international orders, please email 

subscriptions@smorgasboarder.com.au 




ALOHA BARRY WILL BE BACK NEXT EDITION - OUT IN SEPTEMBER

IMPROVED QUALITY BETTER MEMORY EXTREME STRETCH KEEPS SHAPE LONGER 

NEVER STOP 

SURFING OP 

With years of local 

experience and the highest 

quality materials, every 

ZEE WETSUIT is built to 

last. Made locally and 

100% Australian owned. 

Available DIRECT 

from ZEE, or from 

select surf stores 

OPEN HOURS: Mon-Fri: 9 - 5, Sat: 9 - 12 

BOTH STORES OPEN 6 DAYS! 

NOOSA: 07 5474 1010 

MOOLOOLABA: 07 5444 7007 

NEW 

STORE! 

Unit 2, 15 Venture Drive, 

Noosaville, QLD 

122 Brisbane Road, 

Mooloolaba, QLD 

sales@zeewetsuits.com 

www.zeewetsuits.com 


131

For those of us who like to surf, hang out with your mates and enjoy a beer

Smorgasboarder_12_July-2012

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