Smorgasboarder_23_winter_2014

F R E E S U R F M A G A Z I N E 

READER PHOTOS, INTERVIEWS 

TIPS & ADVICE FOR YOUR OWN PHOTOS 

SURF SNAPPING SPECIAL

THE PERFORMER 

The best of both worlds - a recycled EPS foam 

core and 2-3mm balsawood skin. With a weight of 

only 7kg 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. 

Now available at wholesale pricing. 

ALSO 

AVAILABLE 

Specifications 

Length: 9’0’’ - 9’10’’ 

Width: 22 ¼’’ - 23” 

Thickness: 2 ½’’ - 3 ¼” 

Weight: 6kgs – 8kgs 

Construction: foam core 

modern longboard 

Stringer: Triple cedar – 

30mm apart 

Bottom: Vee 

Tail: Rounded square 

Rails: Nose - 70/30 

Centre - 80/20 

Tail - 90/10 

SHIPPING ANYWHERE, 

INCLUDING NZ 

• Clear board grip tape - Let 

the beauty of the balsa 

show through with clear 

Versagrip Traction Tape. 

Environmentally friendly 

and suits all size boards. 

• Timber fins 

• Surfboards 

• Blanks 

• Raw balsa/ cedar 

• Fin boxes 

• DIY board kits 

• Instructional DVDs 

• Board racks 

• Tide clocks 

• NEW! LICK liquid 

surf wax. 

Wholesale 

enquires 

welcome

HANDCRAFTED IN AUSTRALIA 

Riley Balsawood Surfboards are made using renewable resource balsa and recycled polystyrene for performance, durability, beauty and lower environmental impact 

Call 0412 376 464 

or Email mark@riley.com.au 

www.balsasurfboardsriley.com.au 

Australian Environmentally-friendly handcrafted surfboards for the 

individual in all of us, with a guarantee. Enjoy Responsibly

QUALITY, PROVEN & INNOVATIVE 

Wax combs 

New surfboard cleaning wipes 

Wetsuit bag 

• Less time changing & an easier wetsuit fitting experience. 

• More water time - slip into a wet or dry suit 90% faster…especially in the cold ! 

• ‘Surf Jimmy’ can be hung for easy access or folded back up. 

• ‘Surf Jimmy’ is made from a highly durable & slippery material that works 100x 

better than a plastic bag, reduces plastic bag waste. 

• Sandy beach no problem, ‘Surf Jimmy’ catches all the sand so it doesn’t end up in 

your wet suit. 

• Reduce ‘fingernail tears’ or gravel damage changing in the parking lot. 

• A must have accessory to any wetsuit owner. 

ADJUSTABLE LIGHTWEIGHT FIN SYSTEM - Accepts All Dual Tab Fins including FCS 

• Simple quick install 

• Adjustable with any dual tab fins 

• Surfinz carbon composite fins can be used in any 

dual tab fin system 

• Available in thruster, quad or quin with free nibbler 

• Side boxes available in 6 or 10 degree cant 

• Very strong, durable, reliable ! 

• New 6.5” & 8” Longboard Centre fins 

• New 4.2” & 4.1” Combo Grom Quads 

• The fastest growing, simplest fin system on the 

market today. 

DISTRIBUTED BY: 

www.watershack.com.au 

www.facebook.com/watershack.com.au 

rob@watershack.com.au

WATER CRAFT ACCESSORIES 

Introducing Lock Rack Lifestyle accessories. 

Built to suit your lifestyle and your craft. 

Lock Rack products are fast, safe and secure. 

Lock Rack products require no tie-downs and allow 

you to spend less time loading and unloading and more time on the water. 

All components are rust resistant and are designed to facilitate single person handling. 

There are 7 models available to suit your lifestyle: 

Surfboard, Single SUP (2 Sizes), Double SUP, Surfski, Fishing Ski and Ladder Rack. 

BLUE GOO removes the toughest dirt, grime, scuff marks, 

stains, minor scratches, oxidation, salt build-up & minor 

surface yellowing. It’s deep cleaning action preps the 

surface for the application of Xtreme Cream. 

white logo 

• High Performance Bottom Coating 

• Proven Drag Reduction by 15% 

• Seals & Protects Surface 

• MORE SPEED, LESS PADDLE FATIGUE 

• RESTORES Boards Finish 

• REMOVES paddle Scuff Marks 

• Performance GUARANTEED 

• NEW 8oz BOTTLE Twice the value at 25% less $! 

• PROVEN over years of competition 

• 100% SATISFACTION GUARANTEED! 

black logo 

“With the rising interest in SUP & the rapid development of boards for surfing, there comes a whole new set of lessons in care & maintenance of that 

equipment. Dings have always been a big part of any watercraft. Especially with many boards now constructed out of EPS foam, the danger of piercing the 

thin fiberglass skin is one that can never be overlooked. The reason is that Styrofoam cores on watercraft will soak water quickly & it becomes impossible 

to drain all the water back out resulting in added weight & the possibility of that water coming between the core & skin causing delamination. There is 

nothing worse, however, than having a great day of surfing cut short because one’s board is taking on water. There is a quick solution called Puka Patches 

that can be applied while out in the surf to seal the ding & prevent any more water getting in. Another great product from the same company is their Rail 

Saver tape. This is a clear, easy to apply plastic strip that preserves the paint job on the rails of the board. On the molded SUP boards, the paint finish is 

like car doors & every time the paddle hits that rail, it’s like someone opening their door into yours. After a few sessions, your rails look beat & battered. 

The Rail Saver saves the board from all that. There have been other brands in the past but putting them on was a nightmare of wrinkles and bubbles. 

Rail Saver is so easy to apply it make’s one feel like a pro. Once on, its barely noticeable but your rails look brand new forever. Both these products are 

must have & get in the habit of carrying several Puka Patches in your wax pocket, the board you save from sinking may not even be your own but your 

karma will thank you later.” 

Aloha & Keep Paddling ….. Gerry Lopez 

OTHER WATERSHACK BRANDS: 

Inflatable waterparks 

Watches 

Keep your goods dry wherever you are

FOREWORD 

Bjørnøya (Bear Island) is 

out this September. 

We wait in anticipation! 

See the trailer on 

smorgasboarder.com.au. 

Updates on www.facebook. 

com/bjornoyathemovie 

Stills courtesy of the 

Bjørnøya crew. 

SMORGASBOARDER | AUTUMN/WINTER 2014 

Great coffee, roasted daily in Volcom Lane, Raglan New Zealand! WWW.RAGLANROAST.CO.NZ 

6 

YOU WANT THE COLD? YOU CAN'T HANDLE THE COLD!

EXTREMES 

Surfing is all about fun, not how you look or how others rate you. As they say, 

“The best surfer out in the water is the one having the most fun.” 

Quite frankly, we don’t care if you rip or you ripple. As long as you're having fun. 

The definition of fun, however, is a somewhat loose one. Take one crazy 

Norwegian, Inge Wegge and his two brothers, who decided to go camping on 

Bear Island - a super-remote, frozen wilderness, for a bit of brotherly bonding 

time, some sub-zero surfing, taking photos and making a movie about it. It 

does look like they had a whole lot of fun, albeit extreme. 

What's particularly extreme this edition though, is the the amount of amazing 

SMORGASBOARDER reader photos - the inspiring shots from people with all 

levels of photographic experience, having a go, having fun and pushing their 

own personal limits to capture a great surfing image. 

In short, we dedicate this issue to those who don’t have tickets on 

themselves but who simply surf and immerse themselves in the experience 

for the pure joy surfing brings to their life. Yes, we're celebrating the elation 

through your photographs. After all, 

“a picture is worth a thousand words.” 

Cheers! 

the Smorgasboarders 

AUTUMN/WINTER 2014 | SMORGASBOARDER 7

DETAILS, CREDITS & STUFF 

Grab SMORGASBOARDER FREE at quality surf stores, shapers and cool cafés on the coast 

of Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, Tasmania, Western Australia 

and New Zealand... Be nice and buy something while you're there. Or read it online. 

FOR MAGAZINE 

SUBSCRIBE HOME DELIVERY 

If you can’t get to a store or other venue to pick the mag up in person, you can also choose to 

have SMORGASBOARDER delivered to your door. See www.smorgasboarder.com.au. 

A few back issues are also available for $5 a piece, plus t-shirts & more! 

$21 AUS & NZ - 1 YEAR - SIX EDITIONS. 

THE COVER SHOT 

Matt Rott and Matt Shepherd capture some photographic magic on a 

not-so-magic day. For more, see page 82 

SMORGASBOARDERS 

ADVERTISING/EDITORIAL: Dave Swan 

dave@smorgasboarder.com.au 

0401 345 201 

NEW ZEALAND: ‘Jiff’ Morris 

jeff@smorgasboarder.co.nz 

0220 943 913 

DESIGN/EDITORIAL: Mark Chapman 

mark@smorgasboarder.com.au 

0400 875 884 

SOUTH AUSTRALIA: James Ellis 

james@smorgasboarder.com.au 

0410 175 552 

ACCOUNTS: Louise Gough 

louise@smorgasboarder.com.au 

GEAR TESTS & REVIEWS: Gus Brown 

gus@smorgasboarder.com.au 

CONTRIBUTING... 

This is YOUR mag. It’s here for you to tell 

your stories, show your pictures and share 

your thoughts - and score some free stuff 

on the way too, to boot. 

E: editorial@smorgasboarder.com.au. 

P: PO Box 501, Moffat Beach QLD 4551 

There’s only a few of us here, so please 

be patient when you get in touch - we’ll 

try our best to get back to you as soon as 

humanly possible. Get in touch to discuss 

any ideas you’d like to be considered for a 

future edition or online. 

BEST NON-DAILY 

PUBLICATION 

QUEENSLAND MULTIMEDIA 

AWARDS 2013 

WWW.SMORGASBOARDER.COM.AU 

Smorgasboarder magazine 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. 

8 

SMORGASBOARDER 

| AUTUMN 2014

AUTUMN 2014 | SMORGASBOARDER 9

WHAT'S 

INSIDE... 

READER PHOTOS 

12 Prepare to be amazed... 

SHARPEN YOUR SKILLS 

34 Surf photography tips 

FOR THE LOVE OF IT 

30 Meet Glenn Hardwick 

YES, IT'S THE READER 

PHOTOS SPECIAL EDITION! 

With so many great shots to share, this 

edition is packed full of surf to have you 

salivating... And it's all thanks to you! 

And thanks to EVOLUTION CLOTHING, 

we get to not just SAY thanks... 

MIKALA WILBOW 

66 A lady behind the lens 

FIVE SHUTTERS 

74 Different perspectives 

THE WRITE-OFF 

82 Making the most of it 

For sending these, 

you score one of 

these! * 

*A t-shirt, not an adams apple 

Chris at EVOLUTION has put 

up one of their very cool t-shirts 

for each reader who has a photo 

printed in our huge READER'S 

PHOTOS section! Thanks Chris! 

There's a new range of designs 

around the corner, we're told, so 

make sure you check out the range 

of street, surf and skate wear at: 

www.evolution-australia.com 

OTHER PASSIONS 

86 Surf shop owners that shoot 

THE LATEST 

38 News 

44 And Greatest 

GEAR 

92 All the latest surfboards 

103 Test everything 

CLOSEOUT 

104 Books 

107 Columns 

110 Socials 

114 Aloha Barry 

THE USUAL 

10 

SMORGASBOARDER | AUTUMN/WINTER 2014

www.canna.com 


READER PHOTO FEST 

12 


READER 

PHOTO FEST 

More often than not, a perfect surf shot is 

the product of years of training, study and 

practice. Yet quite often, someone with 

no photographic experience whatsoever 

happens to hit the shutter button at just the 

right moment, all light and forces align and 

bam! Magic. This edition goes to celebrate 

that entire spectrum - from the lucky hacks, 

to the hardworking up-and-comers, to the 

seasoned vets who actually remember what 

a darkroom smells like. Just like surfing, 

there's room for all in the water and our 

experience of surfi ng is all the richer for it! 

Jimi Hendrix and surf-loving 13-year old 

Ivar Selling is from Newcastle. He took 

some photos at his home break, Bar Beach, 

including this cracker here! 

Thanks Ivar - there's a super-cool 

Evolution t-shirt on the way to you 

courtesy of www.evolution-australia.com 



14 


Rusty 

DOZER 

5’8/19.25/2.31 

5’10/19.56/2.37 

6’0/19.81/2.5 

6’2/20.06/2.62 

6’4/20.31/2.69 

GTR 

5’10/18.46/2.32 

6’0/18.78/2.48 

6’2/19.01/2.5 

6’4/19.25/2.6 

Simon 

DK 

5’10/19.92/2.38 

6’0/20.25/2.6 

6’2/20.59/2.6 

6’4/20.5/2.6 

6’6/20.5/2.65 

Surfer Elliot Lynch 

Photographer James Meyer 

@jamesmeyerr 

www.facebook.com/JamesMeyerPhoto 

An EVOLUTION t-shirt's on the way James! 

XFC 

6’0/18.38/2.25 

6’1/18.63/2.31 

6’2/18.75/2.38 

6’3/19/2.44 

SURFTECH AUSTRALIA 

www.surftechaustralia.com.au 

02 4226 1322 



"Nelson (top of the South Island, NZ) is one of those places where the breaks - particularly Snappers - are awesome. Just a very narrow window for the swell to 

arrive. This day, I couldn't believe my eyes as I paddled out.. Not a drop out of place, perfect 4-5 wave sets with the bigger ones in the double overhead category!" 

Michael "Frosty" Frost Photo: Geoff Noble, Tahuna Studios www.geoffnoble.co.nz 

16 


Tolhurst/Ingleby 

HIHPS - L: 9’0 W: 22 1/2” TH: 2 11/16” 



02 4226 1322 



18 


OWEN WRIGHT 

Chooses DXL CERAMIC C4 with Power Base Boxes 

Power Base Fins & Boxes - Completely Integrated 

From congestion to soul surfi ng solutide... Anthony Lombardi 

captured these Sunshine Coast magic moments. 

An EVOLUTION t-shirt's on the way Anthony! 

MORE POWER 

MORE CONTROL 

www.powerbasefins.com.au 

02 4323 4818 



With a submission like this, how 

can this photo not go in? 

"These photos of me killing it 

deserve the front cover they're 

so good, but I'm sure I can trust 

you to find a suitable spot for 

them in the mag. Thanks. The 

photographer is Fraser Spratt." 

Roly Burgess 

Well done gents, 

Evolution shirts on the way... 

20 


Adam Neilson leaves the water... 

An EVOLUTION t-shirt's on the way, Adam 


22 

| AUTUMN/WINTER 2014 

SMORGASBOARDER


Regular contributor Craig Bessant 

gives us a glimpse into the Snapper Rocks line up 

on the Gold Coast, when there's festivities on! 

An EVOLUTION t-shirt's on the way, Craig! 

See more at www.facebook.com/FOAMBALLS 

AUTUMN/WINTER 2014 | SMORGASBOARDER 23

Get back to surfing’s roots... 

with paulownia 

Freshwater, NSW... 

Fernando Favata. Enjoy 

your EVOLUTION 

t-shirt, Fernando! 

Native Hawaiian 

surfer with alaia 

board, circa 1911 

Tom Wegener preferred alaia blanks • Alaia & Kite Boards 

Long Boards • Hollow Boards • Chambered Boards 

Our buoyant, 

lightweight 

timber floats 

all around the 

world. 

SURFBOARD SUPPLIES 

Contact David Evans 

P: 03 9588 2533 

E: info.sales@paulowniasurfboardsupplies.com 

W: www.paulowniasurfboardsupplies.com 

Buy the Best Paulownia Timber 

Australia has to offer. 

24 


Winkipop, Victoria... 

Alan Oshlack. An 

EVOLUTION t-shirt's 

on the way, Alan 



Danny Flynn, enjoy the Evolution t-shirt! 


26 


A busy day at a Tassie break... Photo: Dale Matheson. 

An Evolution t-shirt's one its way, Dale! 


Noosa's Alex Benauld looks over Sunshine gold. 

Thanks! An EVOLUTION t-shirt's on the way Alex! 


28 


A beardy man getting some shade on the Gold Coast. Photo by Glenn at lookslikeme.com.au. 

(More about Glenn on Page 30) 

Unknown surfer making the most of Byron Bay's waves. Photo by Matt Palmer 

PHOTO: READERS 

READER photos ONLINE: 

Not just in print, there are also great reader photos on www.smorgasboarder.com.au - plenty more 

shots to drool over and mind-surf there, and it's regularly updated with new gems. Check it out and 

make sure to rate, and vote for your favourites! Here are just a few to whet your appetite! 

Relaxed Sunny Coast longboarding Photo by Warwick Gow 

The swell's come back to Noosa! Photo: Olivia Williams. 


PHOTO: PASSIONS 

Pugs having fun in front of the lens too. Photo: Supplied 

LOOKS 

LIKE FUN 

PHOTOGRAPHER GLENN ‘PUGS’ HARDWICK 

Glenn ‘Pugs’ Hardwick is a passionate surfer from the Gold 

Coast, who also happens to be very handy with a camera. 

Photography – Glenn's 'second passion' as he calls it - started 

off with him taking surf shots as a kid with his dad’s camera 

and today, he actively shoots on the Gold Coast - not only 

grabbing regular shots that make their way onto Facebook and 

his website lookslikeme.com.au - but he also gives his time to 

help out with the Disabled Surfers Association. Glenn tells us a 

bit more about what gets him out of bed in the morning... 

30 


AUTUMN/WINTER 2014 | SMORGASBOARDER 31 

Smiles all 'round at the DSA get-togethers


Pugs scores a wave that 

would make anyone's mates 

jealous. Photo: supplied 

THE MAN... 

Name: Glenn 'Pugs' Hardwick 

From: Wentworthville, NSW, been on the 

Gold Coast 43 years 

Currently: Helensvale, Gold Coast 

Local surf break: Narrowneck 

Favourite surf break: Telo Islands, Sumatra 

YOUR PHOTOGRAPHY WEBSITE, 

LOOKSLIKEME.COM.AU – 

HOW DID THAT GET STARTED? 

I came up with the idea whilst 

in Bali talking to a few guests 

at Mick’s Place and they told me 

about a guy in Sydney who does a 

similar thing and sells his photos 

online -Waz That You, I think he was 

called. I came up with Lookslikeme, 

there and then - you could be 

looking through my photos and say 

"Hey, that looks like me," and that’s 

how it all started. Taking photos of 

YOU DO A LOT WITH THE 

DSA (DISABLED SURFERS 

ASSOCIATION OF AUSTRALIA)... 

A few mates from Narrowneck 

Longboard Club have been involved 

for quite a few years and I had 

offered to take some photos for 

them to raise awareness for DSA, 

so off I toddled to the fi rst event of 

the year and I was hooked from the 

fi rst minute. 

I started taking photos of the kids 

and seeing the joy in their eyes 

through the lens was unbelievable - 

the average surfer, and posting them 

on my web site for sale at $11.00 for 

an emailed jpeg. 

I’ve had plenty of people saying 

what a great concept I have, as 

they had never had a photo of 

themselves surfi ng, and they had 

surfed all their lives. 

brought a tear to my eye and plenty 

of others on that day. 

I spoke to a few parents and 

emailed the photos to them free of 

charge, and the joy they got from 

the photos was a great buzz for me 

too. I posted some on Facebook 

and had over 2,000 views... 

Unbelievable! So now my wife and I 

are both Team Leaders with the DSA 

and we love it. 

If you've ever surfed around the Gold 

Coast and noticed a photographer 

around, it might have been Glenn, so 

check out his website and you might 

just see someone who Lookslikeme, 

well, you... you know what we 

mean... 

www.lookslikeme.com.au 

Looks Like Me - Surf Photography 

32 


AUTUMN/wiNTer 2014 | SMORGASBOARDER 33

PHOTOS: TIPS & ADVICE 

TIPS & 

ADVICE 

SHOOTING 

WITH A 

LONG LENS 

CLARRIE BOUMA'S name is 

practically synonymous with 

surf photography around the 

Wollongong area. Today he takes 

some time out to help demystify 

the equipment needed - in 

particular, for shooting from a 

distance - as well as some of the 

optimal settings for getting a great 

surf shot. Over to Clarrie... 

34 


photography (and video) and the 

DIGITAL equipment used to capture it 

has evolved dramatically and increased the ability for 

surfers to compile a comprehensive and high quality 

visual record of their surfi ng. Gone are the days of 

a few blurry images with a surfer far off in the distance. 

Social media, personal web pages, blogs, instagram, etc 

are littered with glory shots. For what is really a small 

amount of money, we can all buy a very reasonable 

camera with a couple of kit lenses - usually something 

like an 18-80mm plus an 80-300mm. 

Learning how to utilise the potential of your equipment 

will allow you to get away from the "auto" or "sports" 

settings resulting in better surfi ng images. This article 

offers you some tips to improve your skills when 

shooting with a longer 300mm lens. 

you are buying a camera with a couple of kit lenses 

IF (a great and inexpensive starting point) to shoot 

surfi ng then there are a few things that you should look 

for. Which camera brand? It is a personal thing but if 

you stick with the major brands like Canon, Nikon, Sony 

etc. you will be okay. There are just too many brands 

and models to cover here. Suffi ce to say the deeper 

your wallet, the more choices you have. 

For surfing photography a high priority should be given 

to the camera’s frame rate (fps). This refers to how many 

images the camera can shoot per second. This varies 

from around 3 to 12 or more fps. A good starting point 

would be 6 to 8 fps. The faster the fps, the greater the 

likelihood you will capture that move at just the perfect 

moment. As a general rule, the fps will slow down 

considerably the more “auto” settings you use, which is 

a good reason to come to grips with manual settings. 

You should always buy the fastest memory card you 

can afford as this will reduce the time it takes to write 

a burst of shots meaning the camera is ready to record 

the next sequence in less time. 

Normally the longer 80-300mm lens in a kit is an f4 - 

f5.6. This means that the maximum aperture or f stop 

is f4 with the lens at the 80mm zoom point and f5.6 

when zoomed up to 300mm. The maximum aperture 

(lowest f stop number) of a lens is generally, though not 

exclusively, a good guide to the quality of the lens. Zoom 

lenses are very functional but generally a prime (or fixed 

length) lens will give a sharper image, though they are 

generally more expensive. 

Image stabilisation is a useful new feature but using a 

tripod means you can shoot without it. Tripods, when 

set up correctly will also mean a level horizon thus 

saving you time correcting this on the computer. 

LEFT: When you're shooting a set like this, perhaps 

a long lens is a better idea than swimming it? 

ABOVE: A glimpse into Clarrie's camera bag. 


PHOTOS: TIPS & ADVICE 

LEFT: Clarrie Bouma. RIGHT: A high shutter 

speed means sharper images. If you want all 

this detail, just do it. 

1. Turn the camera on and remove 

the lens cap 

2. Make sure the memory card has 

been formatted. 

CAMERA 

SETTINGS 

For fast action sports the auto setting 

isn’t ideal. Even using the sports 

setting has its limitations as this mode 

generally shoots at a shutter speed 

of 1/500th. With a 300mm lens, a 

minimum 1/1000th shutter speed will 

result in sharper images. The shutter 

priority setting tells the camera to shoot 

at the shutter speed selected and it 

then adjusts the aperture or f stop as 

determined by the available light. This is 

a useful setting and normally gives great 

results but it may mean less consistency 

throughout a sequence of shots. 

I shoot exclusively in manual mode. I, 

rather than the camera, determine what 

the end result will be. 

Here’s what I commonly do when I am 

setting up my camera with a 300mm 

lens, though it does vary considerably 

depending on conditions and what I am 

trying to achieve. Some are obvious but 

still worth mentioning: 

3. Set the White Balance to the 

appropriate setting (cloud, 

sunshine etc.) 

4. Set shutter speed to 1/1000th 

5. Set the aperture to f8 (a useful 

starting point though it will 

change depending on the 

prevailing light) 

6. Set the ISO to 200 (another useful 

starting point but it will vary 

depending on light) 

7. Set autofocus to “continuous” 

meaning the camera will 

autofocus continually during a 

burst 

8. Take a camera reading on 

both some white water and an 

unbroken wave face. Adjust the 

aperture (and ISO if required) to 

an appropriate setting roughly 

halfway between those two 

readings. Avoid using the 

maximum aperture (lowest f 

stop). Experience will show you 

what ISO setting your camera 

can go to before the "noise" level 

becomes a problem. 

9. Take a few sample shots and 

have a look at what they come 

out like. The histogram view 

function is useful here. 

MORE TIPS 

When you anticipate a good move 

coming up, depress the shutter halfway 

so the autofocus is locked in correctly 

before you actually start shooting. 

A lens convertor is useful but they do 

reduce the light getting through to the 

sensor. A 1.4X convertor is fi ne but a 

2X one is of limited value. 

Always shoot in RAW format. The jpg 

format compresses image data and once 

compressed in the camera, that lost 

data can never be recovered. 

Bigger lenses like a 600mm f4 lens are 

appealing but expensive, around $6,000 

secondhand. I’d be lucky to use mine 

20% of the time. They are very heavy 

and require a stable tripod which limits 

how many lenses you can lug around. 

Framing is definitely more challenging 

and you are compelled to use an even 

faster shutter speed hence requiring 

more light. 

I have only touched on what is a 

complex topic. The best advice I can 

give is to get a camera and start 

shooting because the more you shoot 

the better you will get. 

www.sandonpointphotos.com 

36 


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info@gearbox-surf.com 

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www.paulowniatimbersales.com.au 

AKA: THE NEWS 

editorial@smorgasboarder.com.au 

More Surfboards 

Morning of the Earth 

replica surfboard. 

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN OUR LOCAL SURFING COMMUNITY & OTHER ANNOUNCEMENTS 

facebook.com/smorgasboarder 

LUNCH FOR 

A CAUSE 

Each year a dedicated group of volunteers on the Sunshine 

Coast run surf-related events to raise much-needed funds for 

severely disabled local children and their families. 

Since 2005 The Board Meeting has raised close to $400,000 

for these local families, proving that surfers have big hearts 

when it comes to helping out those in the community. 

On Friday July 25th, The Board Meeting will be hosting a 

"Legends of Surf Long Lunch" at the Alex Surf Club. Guests 

of honour include surf pioneer Bob McTavish and Australian 

Surfi ng Hall of Fame inductee Mark Warren. There will also 

be a number of items to be auctioned including a Morning Of 

The Earth replica from Mark Pridmore of More Surfboards. 

Tickets for three-course lunch and 3 hours of free drinks are 

just $100 per head. 

To book contact Glenn Corbet on 0410 549 364 or see the 

website for more: www.theboardmeeting.org.au 

@smorgasboarder 

twitter.com/smorgasboarder 

FAREWELL 

TO A 

LEGENDARY 

WATERMAN 

We were saddened to hear 

the news of the passing 

of Dave Jack man, pio neer 

waterman from Sydney’s 

Northern Beaches and uncle 

to Jay Jackman of Sadhana 

Surfboards in Christchurch. 

Revered as a legendary 

con queror of the 

Queenscliff Bombora and 

for his sub se quent big wave 

exploits on Hawaii’s North 

Shore, Dave was part of the 

first Aus tralian team to tour 

Hawaii. He also had numerous 

iron man and surf life 

saving titles to his name - even 

a qualification to the Munich 

Olympics for kayak ing. He 

was in every sense, a true 

waterman. 

Dave was also well known as 

a board builder, boat builder, 

musician, athlete, movie stunt 

dou ble, mentor and gen eral 

good bloke. 

RIP Dave Jackman 

3rd Oct 1939 to 3rd May 2014 

38 


READER: PHOTOS 

SCORE... 

Can you surf like Wayne Lynch? Enjoy some of our favourite readers' Wayne Lynch surfing impressions to celebrate the release of 

Uncharted Waters - The Personal History of Wayne Lynch on DVD. 

Congrats to Robbie Marshall, Broulee who sent in this photo by his old man, Geoff Marshall, channeling the classic Aaron Chang 

Wayne Lynch cover-shot on a self-shaped board to boot! Robbie scores a super-cool prize pack including a copy of the DVD along with a 

Patagonia Yerba backpack and trucker cap, courtesy of Madman Entertainment. www.unchartedwaters.com.au 


READER: PHOTOS 

Congrats also to Mark Todhunter, of Ballina who reckons 'Wayne would go' 

this wave easily... Mark scores a super-cool prize pack including a copy of the DVD 

along with a Patagonia Yerba backpack and trucker cap, courtesy of Madman 

Entertainment. www.unchartedwaters.com.au 

SCORE... 

40 


www.sandyfeetsurf.com.au 

We take photos too. 

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EVERYTHING S.U.P. 

Lessons, Hire, Sales New/Used, Accessories & Apparel 

Todd Mingramm Photo: Greg McCarthy 

www.cronullasup.com.au 

Shop 3, 13-15 Kingsway, Cronulla PH: 9544 2293 M: 0400 085 823 

Saxon from Tassie writes cool stories and reads a great mag. Photo Dale Matheson 

PERFECT FOR 

A BIG CURL 

Not referring to big waves, that is, rather 

to our good friend Darren Marks, the man 

behind our Aloha Barry cartoon (see p 114). 

The boys from Island Surfboards on Phillip 

Island specialise in custom craft and so Greg 

Hogan was set the challenge of crafting a 

board for our big mate. It’s a beauty, as is 

Curl’s artwork on his new stick. 

www.islandsurfboards.com.au 

Got News? 

Curl (left) 

with Hoges 

Send it in! Upcoming events, charity 

happenings, interesting stories, email to: 


42 


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6/05/2014 4:18 pm 


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mediums for plants. Much more than just fertiliser, Canna products are designed to prevent 

salts accumulating in the soil and are specifically designed for the different phases of plant 

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44 



RANDOM ROAD TALES 

RANDOM 

TALES 

FROM THE 

ROAD PART II 

WORDS & PHOTOS: DAVE SWAN 

Leaving Jed Bushrat’s house without a new board, 

I had marveled at my new-found self control as I 

headed for Tathra. The South Coast of New South 

Wales is one of the most amazing stretches of 

coastline in the whole of Australia - stunning, 

consistent quality breaks and an awe-inspiring 

landscape and seascape. 

My plan over the next week was to make my way to 

Newcastle, catching up with some of my favourite 

shapers and getting in a few cheeky surfs. Thankfully 

my plan succeeded. 

“TALking TO A 

ShApER, OnE-On-OnE, 

iS hOw yOu gET TO 

DiScOvER ThAT mAgic 

SuRfbOARD." 

Top LEFT: South Coast New South 

Wales. ABOVE: Mark Rabbidge. 

LEFT: Dan Bekis of DJB 

46 

SMORGASBOARDER | AUTUMN/wiNTer 2014

TOP: Sam Egan sled. BOTTOM LEFT: Ben Shaw with a collectable Jickie Mebane Jet Foil. BOTTOM RIGHT: Stanwell Park 

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48 

| AUTUMN/wiNTer 2014 

SMORGASBOARDER

DAY 11-12: 

TAThrA To KiAmA 

Following a catch up with Ben Shaw from Raw 

Surfboards, I had a little beachie at Tathra, 

followed by another up the road at Cuttagee and 

was almost on a hat-trick at Camel Rock, just 

north of Bermagui, when I saw a large shape in 

the breakers as I was getting my boardies on. 

Being a self-confessed chicken I promptly got my 

clothes back on and headed for Tomakin and the 

good folks at the Rivermouth General Store. 

Katrina and the gang have one cool set up and 

the food is unbelievable. 

Leaving late arvo 

there was just 

enough time for a 

wave at Broulee 

before bunking down 

at the Kioloa Beach 

Holiday Park 

with the kangaroos 

followed by an 

incredible meal at Merry Street Restaurant 

(Hey it was research. We had previously run a 

story on the good folks there and I had to try the 

food for myself. I wasn’t disappointed.) 

The next morning it was on to Culburra Beach to 

see Daren Glennan of Entity Surfboards, then 

Mark Rabbidge at Bendalong and Jade Robinson 

at DSN in Gerringong. You could not possibly 

meet any more salt-of-the-earth people on the 

planet. Why surfers buy big name brands rather 

than talk to their local shaper is quite literally 

beyond me. These are the guys who can really 

help develop your surfing and tailor-make a 

board suitable for your local break. 

rANDom ROAD TALES 

PHOTOS, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Ben Shaw, 

Broulee,Tathra, Kioloa Beach Holiday Park, Jade 

Robinson, and Daren Glennan 


Brown Doggs 


The Gong 

Mick Slattery 

Chris Brown 

Dave Porter 

Steve Laws 

The Rileys 

DAY 13-14: 

SHELLHARBOUR 

TO CRONULLA 

More great shapers to see... 

First up I had the pleasure of meeting Chris 

Brown of Brown Dogg Surfboards for 

the fi rst time. I had seen a number of Chris’ 

boards at Mark O’Sullivan’s Shellharbour 

Surf & Skate and was keen to meet the 

man in person. You need only look at Chris’ 

browndoggsurfboards.blogspot.com.au or our 

board profi le pages to know why. Amazing 

boards - some of the nicest I have seen - and 

a really nice guy. 

Dave Porter from Treehouse Landscapes 

and Handshapes at his old timber mill 

shed in Bulli was my next stop. Dave’s got an 

amazing set-up. Aside from the showroom 

and indoor vege garden there’s several 

shaping bays and a glassing bay where 

he regularly conducts classes. Dave’s own 

creations feature a unique eco angle. Just 

check out this awesome EPS, epoxy and flax 

fi bre assymetrical. 

Before I left The Gong I made sure to see 

Steve from Mako Surfboards and that 

board – the F1. It looked like something 

Batman may ride. Steve explained the 

inspiration behind his design were twinhulled 

speedboats. “That’s why I called it the 

F1. It’s a mini Simmons with a bad attitude.” 

There was no time to test but I will most 

definitely be back to take it for a burn. 

Before the end of the day I made sure to see 

Mick Slattery of Sure Fire Surf. The variety 

of boards Mick is shaping blew me away; 

everything from epoxy alais to ultra high 

performance sups. 

My day finished with a few beers with good 

mate Mark Riley and a few of the local 

boys at the Elouera SLSC for a Nippers 

fundraising night. Unfortunately the next 

morning I awoke thinking I was going to die. 

My brain had its own heartbeat. Despite 

being somewhat mute, I had the privilege 

of meeting rugby league royalty – Mark’s 

dad, John, and his lovely wife Gwen. John 

played alongside Reg Gasnier (RIP) and 

Johnny Raper at St George and toured with 

the famous Kangaroo side to the UK in 1959. 

And let me say, John and Gwen’s bar was an 

impressive one. Mick Kerrigan, eat your heart 

out. When I next return I will make sure I can 

hold a conversation. 

50 


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Dan Bekis 

Day 15-19: 

BoarDs, BoarDs, 

BoarDs... 

How could I ever be criticised for bringing the 

occasional surfboard home? 

First off, I got to see the high performance 

longboards ridden by local stars Christian 

Pimm and Jason Livingston featuring Martin 

Worthington colour work at Soul Surf, along 

with their incredible collection of vintage 

boards and memorabilia. 

Next was Bennett Surfboards, where I 

literally dribbled from the moment I walked in 

the door until I left. 

Later that day I caught up with Dan Bekis from 

DJB. I saw Dan Bekis' boards about 2 years 

ago at the Wanda Fish Fry and loved them. This 

however was the first day I actually got to meet 

Dan and what a down-to-earth, easy to talk to 

bloke he was. I must say to anyone who may 

have feared getting a custom because of the 

process, or because of any concern of being 

confronted with a 'too cool' crowd, just see 

this guy. Enthusiastic yet relaxed, with a real 

passion for custom crafting boards. 

52 


Sam Egan 

Following the Northern Beaches run and down through the Central Coast I found myself in Newcastle, which meant 

it was time to see two absolute gentlemen of the surfboard industry - Sam Egan and Peter Sheely. 

Pete is a first class craftsman. Everything he touches is so meticulous. I absolutely loved his latest 10’4” personal board 

he made for himself with resin tail block and wood fin. Photos don’t do justice to the refined tail profile and rails. 

Sam is a master of the trade. Whether it is a stubby, twin-finned block of foam he's crafted for Dave Rastovich, a 

triple-stringer mal or a big wave gun, it's all amazing. Just to be able to walk into his shaping bay for a chat is what 

makes my job so much fun. 

“two absolute gentlemen of 

the surfboard industry - 

sam egan and Peter sheely." 



Raglan 

Mickey T 

Raglan Longboards 

Ray Finlay 

RANDOM TALES 

FROM THE ROAD 

...IN NZ 

WORDS & PHOTOS: JEFF MORRIS 

AUCKLAND TO RAGLAN 

Picked up the Big Britz Motel 

close by Auckland Airport, it was 

busy at the depot and I thought I’d 

be there until dark, but the crew had 

done it all before and I was Raglan 

bound in no time. 

Two hours later I pulled into Raglan 

Kopua and was well looked after by 

Teresa, Jo and the Kopua crew. 

Next morning, walked into town 

to check out the famous vibe. Was 

it really like Byron in the '70s? As 

they say, "If you can remember, 

you weren’t really there", but I 

sort of remember, and it sort of 

is... Anyhow it’s definitely a cool 

town and one of the coolest areas 

is around Raglan Roast and 

Raglan Surf Emporium. Popped 

into Raglan Roast and found Tony 

Bruce deep in the brown lightning 

cave roasting some of his magic 

beans. Interesting guy and had the 

pleasure of his company on the 

drive back up to Auckland the next 

day. If you’re in Raglan pop in and 

say hello, he has some interesting 

stories from the Volcom and early 

Raglan days. 

Moved on next door and had a good 

chat about all things (Sydney’s) 

Northern Beaches surfing with 

J.C. - Tony’s long time business 

collaborator and owner of Raglan 

Surf Emporium. 

The morning was getting on and 

I really wanted to check out the 

even more legendary left-hander 

at Manu Bay, on the way I called 

in to see Mickey T and Sunny at 

Raglan Longboards. They have a 

great old school type surf shop here, 

no corporate stuff, just Mickey’s 

boards, t-shirts and related 

merchandise. Mickey is a true 

craftsman and the quality and finish 

of his boards are as good as it gets. 

It’s worth calling in just to see the 

neatest shaping bay in the world. 

He generously lent me one of his 9 

footers, so I popped out and picked 

up a few onshore sliders, not flash 

but fun and uncrowded. 

On the way back to town I called 

in to our friends at Piwiwiwi, 

where Anna showed me around one 

of their newer, upmarket models 

complete with strings attached for 

hanging long boards and a couple of 

cunning areas to put short boards. 

Ray Finlay – Burning Spears 

surfboards were next on the 

way, so I also called in and just 

caught him as he was about to go 

somewhere else but he opened the 

shop and showed me some of his 

latest creations. 

54 


PIHA TO TAKAPUNA 

On to Piha. It’s always easy to get lost in a city without 

a sat nav. and Auckland’s no exception. It looked so 

straight forward on the tourist map. Mum always told 

me, “If you’re lost, just ask a policeman” so after one 

handed me a speeding fine I did (yep, apparently you 

can in a 7.2 metre x 3.3 metre high Britz motor home). 

One way of getting directions I suppose. 

Arrived in Piha just in time for a magic sunset over 

Lion Rock. Pulled into Piha Domain Motor Camp 

and was warmly welcomed by the fabulous Fiona. 

Next day was extremely onshore and very wild 

west coast, so we did a 3 hour “whose idea was 

this anyway “ walk along Piha ridge - can sort of 

recommend it, big views and you really get the feel 

of a place when you walk it. 

Loved the vibe of Piha and couldn’t believe it’s so 

close to Auckland, also couldn’t believe there’s no 

bottle shop there, however, there is Piha Cafe and 

the local R.S.A. (R.S.L. for Aussies), both with great 

food, atmosphere and an alcoholic beverage or 2. 

If you go to Piha but don’t call in to Piha Surf and 

meet Mike and Pam Jolly, give yourself an uppercut. 

Piha 

Mike is Piha’s purveyor of fine boards, 

accommodation and sensational views of Piha’s 

recently revived (after 15 years) left hander, which 

was going off as I was heading off, sound familiar? 

Thought it might be time to dig the sat nav out of my 

bag, charge it up and head over to Auckland’s Surf 

Central, Takapuna on the North Shore. First stop, our 

good mates Luke and the boys at The Board Shop. 

Luke has put together a vast collection of all things 

surf and the best racking systems to get it all there. 

Great guys and could easily spend lots of time there 

checking out the latest and greatest. 

Down the street from The Board Shop is one of 

New Zealand’s true surf legends, Wayne Parkes. 

Wayne’s not that big on signage so pay attention 

otherwise you’ll walk past it like I did – or maybe not. 

Wayne didn’t want to be Wayne today as apparently 

he was having a crap day, but happily he did decide 

to get into character and we had a good chat of 

things past. Great surfer and great shaper but don’t 

go there unless you’re prepared to fork out for a new 

board, because you will want one. 

Mike Jolly 

Wayne Parkes 

The boys at The Board Shop 


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56 SMORGASBOARDER | AUTUMN/WINTER 2014

Ruakaka 


Roger Hall 

RUAKAKA AND WAIPU COVE 

Heading further north to Ruakaka and mysteriously 

I fi nd myself at Roger Hall’s Surfline Surfboards. 

Roger is one of the most innovative surfboard 

manufacturers around. His boards were featured in 

an exhibition at the Auckland Art Gallery late last 

year as part of the Design Encounter exhibition. 

The quality of design, finish, various inlays, stringer 

treatments, colours and sheer innovation of Roger’s 

boards are outstanding. I was really taken with his 

Hot Curl boards and will definitely get back up there 

and give one a go in future when I have more time. 

Waipu Cove 

On to Waipu Cove, home of this year’s Cove Fish 

Fry, and a nice spot to spend some time. Not much 

happening in the surf department when I was there, 

however The Pizza Barn and Two Fish Cafe 

were more than adequate compensations. 


TUTUKAKA 

Jeff with Mickey T, Raglan Longboards 


Poor Knights Islands 

Perfect Day crew 

Schnappa Rock 

Time was really starting to run out now and the 

idea of heading up to the Bay of Islands and 

Ahipara to see the guys at NZ Surf Bros. had to 

be put off until next time. We did have time to 

head up to Tutukaka thankfully, where I caught 

up with Mal and Ali at Tutukaka Surf. This is 

a really stunning area and Tutukaka Surf is 

perfectly located in the harbour, with superb 

restaurants such as Schnappa Rock right nearby. 

The region is a great surf destination with a 

good variety of breaks. Fishing is also a big 

deal here judging by the amount of big game 

boats in Tutukaka Harbour, however, one of the 

areas that it’s not a big deal is the Poor Knights 

Islands, a marine reserve around 45 minutes east 

of Tutukaka. If you’re ever in the area I strongly 

recommend that you go out there with Perfect 

Day Ocean Cruises, who will give you just that, 

a perfect day of snorkelling, paddle boarding 

and cruising in an absolutely pristine marine 

environment, crystal clear water, an abundance 

of fi sh gliding past your goggles plus great food 

and company. 

We were lucky enough to be on board with a 

local surfi ng family and members of the Ocean 

Beach Boardriders – John, Michelle and Zane 

Hicks. Zane recently won the 2014 Northland 

Scholastic Surfi ng Series from a fi eld of 24 in a 

good solid surf at Sandy Bay, someone to keep 

an eye on I think. 

Next day Mal lent me one of Tutukaka Surf’s 

8’10” longboards so we headed around to Sandy 

Bay, although not solid, it was a nice little wave 

and after about 10 minutes I got chatting to a 

Californian named Eric, who was catching some 

nice rides on a smallish SUP. I mentioned that 

I did a bit of SUP surfi ng as well and he kindly 

lent me one of his made-in-California Kings high 

performance boards. It also was 8’10” but only 

28" wide - the smallest one I'd ever ridden. A bit 

of a challenge at fi rst, but a lot of fun once I got 

used to it. 

people that you meet on the way, did I mention 

Dave from Tutukaka Holiday Park? As well 

as park owner and dairy farmer, he's a qualified 

electrician (sometimes I feel like such an under 

achiever) who fixed the electrical cord on our 

Britz van after some clown ran over it. He 

wouldn’t hear of taking any money for the half 

hour of his time and expertise, but I did manage 

to lay a bottle of NZ’s finest Pinot on him though. 

We only scratched the surface of the North 

Island, so definitely looking forward to all the 

other bits in the future. 

To follow the Smorgasboarder travels around 

Australia and NZ as it happens, simply like us on 

Facebook or follow us on Instagram and you can 

come along for the ride - online anyway! 

www.facebook.com/smorgasboarder 

Mal, Tutukaka Surf 

Eric 

It was time to head back to Auckland, then 

on home to the South Island. One of the great 

things about these sorts of trips is the terrific 

@smorgasboarder 

58 



GREAT 

WINTER 

SURF ESCAPES 

RAGLAN, NZ 

If this classic Raglan pic doesn't give 

you a whole lot of reasons to wear some 

rubber, then nothing will! 

Pack your rubber because this is when one of the world’s best left handers is on song. Huge, powerful, clean walls provide the perfect canvas to draw the kind of lines you 

have only imagined in your dreams. While you’re there why not treat yourself and pick up a magic Raglan Longboards sled by Micky T, tailor-made for the conditions. 

Photo courtesy of Raglan Longboards 

60 


Is surfing Raglan’s famous left hand breaks on 

your bucket list? Then tick it off and come on over! 

Tents, campervans or caravans, 

backpackers, cabins or motel units. 


62 


SMORGASBOARDER

SCOTTS HEAD, NSW 

A classic competition has people heading for Scotts Head in NSW again this July! 

THE 30 TH ANNUAL 

LOGGER HEADS MALIBU 

CLASSIC IS ON AGAIN AT 

SCOTTS HEAD 

If you've never visited Scotts before, 

here's your perfect excuse to throw 

a big board in the car and cruise 

over for some winter waves. It's 

without doubt a standout wave in 

the Nambucca region, and one of our 

personal favourites along this stretch. 

Never been? Here's a bit of what to 

expect when you get there. 

THE SURF 

The beauty of Scotts is there's 

something for everyone, and it's 

particularly ideal for the travelling 

surf family. 

The right-hand point break off the 

rocks can deliver 400 to 500 metre 

rides on its day and hold up to double 

overhead. Further in towards the 

beach, the cove offers some superb 

beachies for surfers of all abilities, 

particularly kids. 

Waves break over a sandy bottom 

and are best in a SE-E swell with S-W 

winds, low to mid tide. This surf spot 

is a lot of fun and really has it all. 

WHAT WE LOVE 

GREAT 

WINTER 

SURF ESCAPES 

• Scotts offers a surf holiday where, 

once there, you don’t touch the car. 

• The Scotts Head Holiday Park is 

right on the beach. 

• The local Bowls Club adjoins and is 

great for a few afternoon cleansers 

and a meal. 

• The local corner shop, café and 

bottle-o are 5m across the road. 

• Aside from surfi ng or beach fi shing 

there is a walking path over the 

headland where magnifi cent 

coastal views can be savoured 

or you can walk 11km along the 

beach between Scotts Head and 

Nambucca. 

GETTING THERE 

Scotts Head is about 500 km north 

of Sydney, just south of Macksville. 

Once you turn off the Pacific Highway 

you have a 15 minute leisurely drive 

to Scotts. 

Being a little off the beaten track 

keeps that nice, beachside town feel 

about the place. Scotts is relaxing to 

say the least. 

WHERE TO STAY 

Surfer: Glenn Carter Photo: Jillian Carter 

The Scotts Head Holiday Park is 

where we stay on our regular run 

down the coast. There’s 14 cabins 

(sleeping 4-6), 117 powered sites, 16 

unpowered sites and all the usual 

facilities. 

See the website for more: 

northcoastholidayparks.com.au 

MARK IT IN YOUR DIARY... 

The 30th annual Logger Heads Malibu Classic will be held 

from Thursday 17th to Sunday 20th July. The Classic is one 

of the longest running and popular events of its kind in Australia 

and is expecting close to 200 entrants this year, with comps 

for juniors through to seniors, male, female, high performance 

longboards, logs and old mals. You can download an entry form 

at: www.australianlongboarding.com 

Surfer: Glenn Carter Photo: Jillian Carter 


GREAT 

WINTER 

SURF ESCAPES 

Photos courtesy of Gus Brown 

PNG 

Winter in most parts of Australia and New Zealand entails cold to frigid water and suiting up in rubber. 

PNG on the other hand, has a year-round water temperature of around 26 degrees, plus lefts, rights and a 

range of quality breaks ranging from 3’ to 6’ on average, suiting surfers of all abilities... Do you really need 

more convincing to book a trip? 

Can you not picture yourself riding a late arvo wave with the setting sun reflecting off the face so it 

resembles a sheet of pink glass? Warm, inviting... You know you want to go! 

64 



LATEST: LENSPERSON 

W H A T D R I V E S Y O U ? 

66 


M I K A L A M w I l b o w 

Mikala Wilbow is a surf-obsessed photographer 

on the Northern Beaches of Sydney. Not only 

does she have an eye for great images and the 

talent to capture them, she also has a wonderfully 

cheery outlook on how she goes about it: 

“I have spent a good part of my life trying to figure 

out how I could live my life every day with a smile,” is 

what she says on her personal website, 

www.mikalawilbow.com, which features a selection 

of her work - from commercial shoots, to travel 

to surfing around her home breaks, where she 

regularly gets out with her husband and friends. 

But what keeps Mikala so stoked about her work, 

her surfing and life? We thought we’d find out 

in one simple question: “What drives you?” 

Over to you Mikala… 

AUTUMN/WiNTer 2014 | SMORGASBOARDER 67

M I K A L A M w I l b o w 

68 


W H A T D R I V E S Y O U ? 



"My inspiration to explore coMes from chasing that perfect shot and the 

life experiences you get when you travel." 

70 


PhotograPhy 

“The surfing life is what drives me as a photographer. 

Since I took up surfing, my life has changed and I’m 

surrounded by the coastal and surfing life. As a surfer, 

I experience so much beauty in my everyday life. As a 

photographer, I naturally want to capture that and share 

it with surfers, non surfers and anyone who has an appreciation 

for beauty in this world. I’m obsessed!” 

LATEST: LENsPErsoN 

EquiPment 

“I am a Canon girl through and through, and use 

Aquatech housing. It’s important to have trust in your 

equipment when you’re taking your gear into the water 

or just capturing a moment that you know you can't 

recreate. The equipment in front of the photographer is 

what helps them express their style, and my equipment 

helps me to capture things the way I see them.” 

Shesurfs 

“I started surfing late in my life - at 18 years old - as 

I didn't grow up on the beach. I think maybe that’s 

what has given me such an appreciation for the sport, 

because it wasn't always on my back doorstep and I 

never had the chance to take it for granted. Over the 

past years I’ve developed such a love for surfing and 

immersed myself in it. 

"I’ve been lucky enough to experience the beautiful 

life that surfing has to offer, and meet many other 

surfer girls living that life. Five years ago, I met my 

now very good friend and business partner, Hayley, 

who had similar interests and a similar direction in 

life. We teamed up and started Shesurfs. It started as 

a Facebook page which was based on sharing our life 

as surfer girls, and has now grown into a blog style 

website where we like to connect surfer girls together, 

share everything a surfer girl would like to know about 

- photos, recipes videos, articles, fashion, tips and 

surf trips. 

"I find surfing so beautiful, inspiring and such a healthy 

lifestyle to live. Surfing has given me so much in my life 

that I want to share that with other girls!” 

AUTUMN/WiNTer 2014 | SMORGASBOARDER 71

Room upgrades, construction of pool and Green Iguana 

Bar and Restaurant complete by June 1, 2014 

Photo: Mick Curley 

72 


SMORGASBOARDER

SURFING 

“I fi nd inspiration in the most simple and beautiful 

things. It’s that feeling of paddling out the back at 

sunrise, ducking under a powerful wave peeling over 

the top of you, and the stoke that comes with catching 

that perfect wave. It’s a beautiful lifestyle that keeps 

me fi t, healthy... And it’s a great way to start my day. 

"Surfi ng is one of the hardest sports I’ve ever learnt. 

The ocean is always throwing you different size 

waves and conditions that you’re always adjusting to 

and working on something new as it wasn't the same 

as when you surfed yesterday. So I’m always driven 

by learning something new and getting that little bit 

better every day.” 

SURF EQUIPMENT 

”I like to mix up my boards and experience the 

different feeling of each board under my feet. My 

husband is a frother and loves buying surfboards, so 

there’s always something fun to take out. Between 

the two of us we have 11 boards. And yeah, we ride 

them all. 

"I'm not a hardcore surfer - I just love to surf and love 

the look of a new surfboard! I do get stuck on my fish 

a lot (especially because I live and surf the Northern 

Beaches). It’s an easy paddle and a super-cruisey ride. 

I do fi nd I get lazy on it though, so I’m always mixing 

up my boards to help me learn more in the surf. " 

TRAVEL 

“My inspiration to explore comes from chasing that 

perfect shot and the life experiences you get when 

you travel. I’ve been travelling since a young age 

and I’ve always found that it gives me an incredible 

appreciation for my background, upbringing and life in 

Australia. 

"I struggle between choosing my surfboard and my 

camera every day when I travel. That stoke you feel 

after you catch that awesome wave is pretty similar to 

the feeling I get when I capture that perfect, amazing 

image. You dream about it and then wake up wanting 

more amazing captures. I want to share it with the 

world because it refl ects the feeling, captured in that 

moment, that I experience as a photographer. I love it 

when I hear how it inspires someone else. 

"I guess you would say all of my images are 

quite personal, as they are documents of my 

life experiences - things my eyes see and the way I 

see them. My love for capturing the surfer girl lifestyle 

has taken me in an exciting direction of now running 

(with Shesurfs) all-girl surf trips to the Maldives, with 

more exciting locations to come. 

"As a photographer, this is a dream. It keeps me 

travelling and meeting new surfer girls all the time, 

giving them photos captured on their surfing holiday to 

share the surf stoke!” 

MORE... 

For more of Mikala’s work, see her website, follow 

here on Instagram and Facebook. Make sure to also 

check out her and Hayley’s blog site, Shesurfs at 

www.shesurfs.com.au 

www.mikalawilbow.com 

@mikalawilbow_behindthelens 

Mikala-Wilbow-Photography 



PHOTO: PERSPECTIVES 

74 


F i VE SHUTTERS 

With most things in life, it's all a matter off perspective... 

Photography tends to be much the same. West Australian 

surfer Jordan Rodin was recently the subject of a few different 

shoots, with five different people and their cameras - not all 

photographers, some just friends snapping at an opportune time. 

We let the people behind the lens tell the tale of how their 

particular perspective on the same surfer happened. 

NicOLAS Ri SCH 

“It's pitch black in the morning! 

Always early starts with 

Jordan... A stiff offshore 

making it freezing outside, I 

didn't want to get up. But with 

Jordan banging on my door, I 

was up. After defrosting the 

car window we were on the 

way to the spot. An hour of 

rocky tracks and dead ends 

and we finally got to the 

wave. We watched it for an 

hour looking at each other 

'looks heavy aye?' 

"A dead low tide was making 

this hard wave to surf almost 

impossible. But we couldn't 

wait - with an early onshore 

forecast it was now or never. 

We suited up and out there 

we went. Watched the first 

wave pick up all the water 

on the reef and dump it down 

again. It was heavy. I was 

thinking ‘There’s no way…’ 

"After watching Jordan get 

pumped for an hour, he finally 

snagged a couple that let him 

out - it’s such a hard place to 

shoot because every wave 

is different. The wind finally 

came in, and I think we were 

both happy to call it quits. 

"Both bruised and cut up, we 

paddled in and called it a day. 

Was stoked with the shots 

and can't wait to meet up with 

Jordan again.” 

www.nicolas-risch-photography.fr 

AUTUMN/wiNTer 2014 | SMORGASBOARDER 75

THE SUBJECT 

NAME: Jordan Rodin 

FROM: Perth, WA 

HOME BREAK: Derrs 

DREAM SURF BREAK: Right hand wedges 

WHAT MAKES YOUR PART OF WA SPECIAL: 

There are some fun waves around and the 

air is crisp and the water is clean. 

76 


Josh with gear and photographic assistant 

JOSH DELAMOTTE 

“Early morning glass at Derrs, with semi-crowded waves on offer. 

Warm prepping conditions set up for a super fun session, clean 

walls and a few ramps around. Full day of surfing topped off with 

diving for some crays and a good burger from Tworocks.” 

@joshdeos 

joshdelamotte.tumblr.com 


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5 STEwART RoAD, CURRUmBIN QLD • CALL US oN (07) 5534 3777 

JAMES MYERS 

“My mate Alex Tuffnell text me Tuesday 

morning asking if I wanted to go down south 

over the weekend. I was hesitant at first 

because I had other commitments on Sunday, 

but Alex was pretty keen and convinced me 

to go any way. Come Friday morning we were 

packing to leave and left around lunchtime. 

We were staying at good friend Jayden Muir’s 

van at the caravan park in Dunsborough. We 

got there, unpacked and still had a few hours 

left to surf and ended up having an afternoon 

bash at Bears. 

“The following morning we were planning on 

getting up super early to beat the weekend 

crowds. Alex’s alarm didn’t go off, so we 

woke up pretty late and were thinking what a 

bad start to the day. Alex was set on surfing 

a spot that’s a bit of a mission to get to - 

Jayden and myself weren’t too keen but we 

did anyway. 

"We got there and it was pretty packed 

with the occasional wave. It seemed like 

everyone was hassling each other just for a 

swell that didn’t even break. After a shitty 

start to the morning we were back at the 

Van and recharged with a couple of bacon 

and egg sandwiches. 

“Alex being the super froth surfer that he is, 

was still super keen to surf again. The whole 

time I was thinking I could not be bothered 

with the crowd or lack of swell. So on our 

way to the next spot I didn’t even bother 

taking a board and instead took my camera. 

We decided on a spot that picks up a bit more 

swell compared to most places. Unless you 

don’t care about your car, you kind of need a 

four wheel drive to get there so it should be 

less packed than somewhere like main break. 

“Once we got off the tarmac and on to the 

gravel road we had to leave Alex’s car behind 

and climb into Jayden’s decked-out Prado. 

Lucky me got to lay down in the back as 

Jay took out all of back seats. Its not the 

funnest thing bouncing around in the back 

of a four wheel drive. Everything just made 

me not want to go. We stepped out the car 

and I armed my camera, planning to shoot 

78 


PHOTO: PERSPECTIVES 

Jayden and Alex. We begun our walk down to 

the break. On our way down Jayden and Alex 

decided they would walk a little further. As we 

walked past the first spot, I was watching the 

surfers out there pulling off some pretty gnarly 

airs in pretty average surf. We stopped to watch 

for a moment. It was pretty cool to watch. “Due 

to social media we could straight away pick out 

Kael Welsh because of his wetsuit and size, and 

Jordan was pretty noticeable because of his hair 

and wetsuit (laughs). I told Jayden and Alex that I 

was just going to take a few shots of Jordan and 

Kael and then catch back up. I ended up staying 

there the whole time until Jay and Alex walked 

back past me. I had my pillow with me because I 

was planning on having a nap on the beach, but 

it ended up serving as pretty good cushion to sit 

on! There are a few rocks up one end of the bay 

and I straight away thought they would be good 

to get a bit a of depth in the photo. I bee-lined it 

for them and began trying to fi nd an angle I liked. 

I took a few test shots and decided on one angle, 

put my pillow down and got comfy... 

“I got a couple of good shots of Kael and a few 

average ones of Jordan. Jordan was doing little 

air reverses off waves that had barely any push 

or wall to them. After a small amount of time 

there, one with a bit more of a wall was coming 

through and Jordan was right on it. I could tell 

he would do something good on it. I couldn’t 

help but think to myself, 'Don’t mess it up.' I take 

photos quite often and two things I know I mess 

up a lot is keeping my focal points perfect and a 

straight horizon. I had already messed up a few 

shots early on because of this and was stressing 

I was going to do it again. 

"Jordan was already racing down the line, I saw 

the closeout section coming towards him and 

fi red away. I started the sequence a little bit late 

and thought to myself ‘you stuffed it.’ He stuck it 

and as soon as he landed and fi nished the wave, 

I checked back my shot and on the little LCD of 

my camera I was super stoked to see it turned 

out pretty good. 

"As soon as I got back to my computer I skipped 

passed all my other photos to get to that 

sequence and I was even more stoked to see it 

on the big screen. I pretty much messaged Jordan 

on Facebook straight away and asked if he was 

surfing there earlier that day. He confirmed it 

was him and I sent him the sequence and a 

couple of others from the day, but that one was 

clearly a stand out - I even set it as my desktop 

background. We kept talking after that and 

just like any two surfers, got along pretty well. 

We still talk a little bit now and I think I'll start 

hassling him out to make a clip or something!” 


STEPHEN 

CURTIN 

“It was a long night… Me 

and Jordan went to the Bruce 

Springsteen concert on a 

Saturday night got home at 

3am, got two hours of sleep 

until Jordan woke me up 

saying “It’s offshore, lets 

go!” We packed the car and 

off to the local we went. It 

was one of those days when 

everyone bars off going to 

surf, so it was just me and 

Jordan surfing these small, 

fun wedges. I surfed for a 

couple of hours and came in 

early as I was still feeling 

seedy from the night before, 

so I took a couple of shots of 

Jordan and got a few okay 

ones! I’m no photographer by 

anyone standards, but it was 

fun just capturing my mate’s 

stoke by pulling the trigger.” 

DAVE MANNING 

“I was on my way north of Perth to surf a little 

reef, but not having a 4X4, I had to walk a 

good half-an-hour to the spot. I saw Jordan 

out there - well, he’s always out there - so, I 

took a few shots of him and a couple of the 

other boys. It didn't last long as I wanted to 

get out there myself. After walking back to 

the car, I looked through the photos and two 

photos of Jordan really stood out. I was stoked 

to get them and share them with him.” 

80 


CLOSE TO 100 

AUSTRALIAN AND 

NZ SURFBOARD 

SHAPERS IN A 

MASSIVE SURFBOARD 

SECTION THAT’S 

GROWING DAILY. 

READ ANY ISSUES OF 


ONLINE, ANYTIME. 

THERE’S ALSO 

PHOTOS, STORIES, 

MERCHANDISE AND 

MUCH MORE. JOIN 

US AS WE GROW. 

We’re expanding on all the good vibes from 

SMORGASBOARDER magazine’s print version, and adding 

extra material online. There’s a lot on there, and a lot more 

to come, so enjoy our new website at: 

WWW.SMORGASBOARDER.COM.AU 


The Write-Off 

Matt Rott and Matt Shepherd discover there's always magic 

to be found when you look just that little bit harder. 

WORDS: MATT ROTT 

PHOTOS: MATT SHEPHERD 

82

PhotograPhy 

IS a Strange 

thing... 

LATEST: IMAGES 

Anytime you're capturing something 

at a fraction of a second - particularly 

an activity as dynamic as surfing - the 

potential exists to distort reality. 

Thus, an image of a perfect wave on a 

perfect day might easily fail to convey 

the full experience of actually being 

there, while a fortuitous convergence 

of light and action can turn a sub-par 

session into something special. 

Take the following selection of 

images, for example. Small swell, 

bad wind, and crappy weather all 

made for good excuses to scrub the 

evening session - both from a surf and 

photographic point of view. But rather 

than calling it a day, photog Matt 

Shepherd and I ran the boat down to 

a slabby little corner of reef that was 

bending just enough to blow offshore. 

There, with a 40-pound dive housing, 

an hour of sunset backlighting, 

and ISO ramped up to 1600, Shepo 

found something worth shooting. 

Sometimes the only thing worth 

writing off is expectation. 

www.aquaseen.com 


"...a fortuitous 

convergence of light 

and action can turn a 

sub-par session into 

something special." 

84 



LATEST: IMAGES


S A N D Y F E E T , S A L T Y L E N S 

Mike Porter is a truly active member of the Port Maquarie surf community. As the owner of Sandy Feet, he not only stocks some of the coolest 

surf gear available but also organises the annual surfboard swap meet... Today, however, we're talking to him about his eye for photos. 

86 


Michael Young 



"I’VE ALSO LEARNT NOT TO 

SHOOT AT SUNSET IF THERE’S 

A LOT OF BAITFISH AROUND." 

Mick Campbell, Ex-WCT surfer 

Unknown, Lighthouse beach 

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN RUNNING A 

DAILY PHOTO BLOG ON YOUR WEBSITE? 

For just over a year now. It’s not really daily 

anymore unless we have a good run of weather 

and waves. I decided people weren’t any keener 

to see photos of bad waves on rainy days than I 

was to take them. 

WHAT WAS THE PRINCIPAL REASON 

BEHIND STARTING THE BLOG? 

I was inspired by a daily email coming out of 

Manly called Sprout Daily. Every day I’d get 

emails with great photos that often included 

mates of mine. I thought to myself, “Someone 

really should be doing a version of this in Port 

Macquarie” 

WHAT GEAR ARE YOU CAPTURING YOUR 

IMAGES ON? 

I use a Canon 7D. When I’m in the water I use 

an Aquatech Sport Housing and Tokina 11-16, A 

cheap 8mm fi sheye or a Canon 50mm. 

On land I was using a Sigma 150-500 but I’ve 

just got hold of a Canon 300mm 2.8L. 

WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNT ALONG THE WAY 

IN A PHOTOGRAPHY SENSE? 

I’ve learnt a lot along the way. I look back at my 

early photos and I’m pretty embarrassed. I’ve got 

a couple of friends who are great photographers 

and have helped out with some great advice. 

I learnt to back up my photos when a hard drive 

died taking about 60,000 photos with it. 

I’ve also learnt not to shoot at sunset if there’s a 

lot of baitfi sh around. (laughs) 

HAS CAPTURING SO MANY IMAGES OF 

LOCAL SURFERS AND BREAKS SHED A 

NEW LIGHT ON YOUR HOMETOWN? 

Not really. I’ve always known we are lucky to 

live in in a pretty good part of the world. 

Anybody interested in Mike's photos can sign up 

for the free emails on the Sandy Feet website. 

"We promise we won’t spam you or sell your 

details," Mike says. "And if you get sick of 

looking at nice waves you can unsubscribe any 

time you like." 

www.sandyfeetsurf.com.au and for the daily 

emails, see sandyfeetsurf.blogspot.com.au 

Sandy Feet Surf Co 

88 


PHOTO BY WALTER JOHNSON 

IT'S ALL ABOUT 

THE BEACH 

L-R: BLACK APACHE LONGBOARD, HIGH TIDE SINGLE FIN, BLACK 

APACHE PERFORMANCE SHORTBOARD AND MINI SIMMONS 

6 LORRAINE AVE, 

MARCOOLA BEACH QLD 

(07) 5448 8560 

STOCKING QUALITY AUSTRALIAN-MADE SURFBOARDS BY TOM WEGENER, BUSHRAT, HIGH TIDE, BLACK APACHE & SAS • SURFBOARDS • SURF ART • SHELLS • 

DRIFTWOOD THINGS • CHENILLE SHORTS • RETRO SUNNIES THONGS • TOWELS • UMBRELLAS • HAMMOCKS • GIFTS • GOPRO CAMERAS... AND SO MUCH MORE 



WATER GALLERY, WET STUDIO 

The name of Wally Johnson's surf and homewares store says it all - Wally's Water Gallery. Every since day one, the walls of the 

Marcoola shop have been adorned with Wally's surf photography, amazingly presented in recycled timber frames made by his dad, 

Phil. We caught up with him for a quick chat between packing... 

"Have you seen my new camera?" Wally 

asks before carefully wrapping his new 

digital SLR up to pack in with his Bali 

luggage. Taking a couple of weeks off 

from Wally's Water Gallery, he's off for a 

bit of Indo R&R. 

Although he's Bali-bound and hopes to 

get some great shots while over there, 

he's more inspired by shooting his local 

neighbourhood. Home is where the heart 

is, they say... 

"It's awesome to be able to relive 

moments just by looking at a photo." 

Wally started taking an interest in 

photography in 2009 and has steadily 

upgraded his arsenal from the early 

days of a waterproof happy-snapper. 

Thesedays he uses a mix of his digital 

SLR, shooting from the beach and a 

GoPro for getting up close and personal 

in the water, but Wally says its always 

a struggle to decide to grab the board or 

camera. 

"When you're looking at the inside of 

great barrells, you really just want to get 

on them," he laughs. "I end up swapping 

halfway and just surfi ng." 

"It's awesome getting good photos of 

sunrises or perfect barrells, and then 

being able to show them off to your 

friends, saying 'look, this is what you 

missed.'" 

Drop in to Wally's Water Gallery at 

6 Lorraine Avenue, Marcoola on the 

Sunshine Coast to see exactly what it 

was you missed. 

Wally Johnson 

90 


A LITTLE BIT OF 

FIN-NOVATION 

M O D E R N A L T E R N A T I V E S 

LIGHT AND STRONG... 

Hidden - if you want it to be - under a 

foam insert, the unique "Load Beam Collar" 

sports trussed openings designed to retain 

maximum strength while being super-light 

GEAR: COOL STUFF 

Innovations under the surface are every 

bit as interesting as the design ideas on 

the surfboard itself. Forward thinking 

fi n ideas - such as the organic, natural 

and fl owing shapes of Hanalei fi ns, or 

the super-refined performance ideas of 

Mitchell Rae's Switchblades (watch this 

space for more on those!) to mention but 

two - are only half of the story... Fin boxes 

and fi n plugs are the other, and the latest 

chapter is that of the brand new Gearbox. 

We fi nd out more... 

ROBIN MAIR - the man behind Hawaii's 

Hanalei Fins - gets very excited when he 

starts to talk about the new Gearbox fi n 

plug. As a surfboard shaper with many 

years of experience under his belt, and 

amazing board designs to show for it, he's 

well and truly been looking at fi n boxes 

from many different angles for a long time 

now. The reason he's excited is because 

the new Gearbox is the culmination of all 

these years of work, thought and constant 

design refinement, and it's sure to get a 

few shapers very excited too. 

"It's not just about the final product," 

Robin explains as we chat on Skype, "It's 

all the design thinking behind it that's 

important." The Gearbox is most certainly 

no throwaway idea. Every aspect of the 

design has been carefully considered and 

tweaked relentlessly to ensure a light, 

strong, easy-to-install and aesthetically 

pleasing fin plug, which accommodates 

standard tabbed fins. 

THE STRENGTH IS IN THE STRUCTURE 

One of the main design features of this 

Gearbox is the "load beam collar" which 

is the structural beam under the surface, 

which extends around the perimeter. With 

a wide surface area and trussed openings 

to reduce weight without sacrifi cing 

strength, the beam help prevents bowing 

and rolling of the plug under strain. Not 

only that, because it is recessed, there is 

space for a foam insert, which not only 

helps retain the aesthetic integrity of 

the original board design, but also can 

enhance the strength due to the extra 

bonding surface area for lamination. 

Yes, being installed under the glass, this 

is one solid, strong system. 

As to the slot, it fi ts your standard dual 

tab fi ns, so no need to throw out your 

favourite, tried and tested sets - simply 

pop them in here and you're good to 

go. And with around 5mm to play with 

positioning in the slot itself you can 

tweak your fi ns to be in the exact spot for 

optimum performance. 

Keep your eyes peeled - these are hitting 

the streets now, so you'll be seeing a few 

of these appearing in boards very soon... 

FOR MORE INFORMATION, see the 

website www.gearbox-surf.com, email 

info@gearbox-surf.com or call Lance 

Pearson on 0417 243 592 


GEAR 

SURFBOARDS 

Whether you’re in the market for a 

new stick, or simply feel like torturing 

yourself and drooling a little by poring 

over amazing new surfboard designs from 

across Australia and NZ, these are the 

pages for you... There’s something for 

everyone here - short to long, young and 

old, foam to timber and beyond. Enjoy! 

For a further fi x for your board addiction, 

see the almost 200 board profi les online 

right now in our surfboards section at 

www.smorgasboarder.com.au. 

A new design, same name featuring a single to double concave, starting just in 

front of the fins, plus a lower rocker with a little flip at both ends. OceanFoam 

blank, 4oz cloth with tint/pigment glassing and a 5 x Futures 

fin setup. 

X 5 

Length: 5’10” 

Width: 19 ¼” 

Thickness: 2 3 / 8” 

ELEVATOR V2 

by Rory Oke 

OKE SURFBOARDS 

1/1-7 Canterbury Rd, Braeside, VIC, 3195 

Ph: 03 9587 3553 

www.okesurfboards.com 


Width: 19 ¼” 


THE BIG 

RED ONE 

by Rory Oke 

X 1 

Fast down the line yet easy to surf rail to rail, this board features a 

flat bottom to slight vee through the tail with chined rails. OceanFoam 

handshaped blank, 6oz cloth, polished finish and one big fin. 

92 


GEAR: BOARDS 

SHAPER’S PROMOTION 

Oke longboard cruising down at Wilsons Prom Photo, supplied: Varenka Tuma 



Width: 22” 

Thick: 2 ¾“ 

FLYING FISH 

by Mike Jolly 

X 4 

Single into double concave with a slight V in the tail. Glassing is 6 + 4oz deck 

with 4oz bottom. Designed as a longboarder’s short board for those bigger, 

punchy West Coast type waves. 

Designed for 10-year-old Kelsi. Easy paddling, stable, yet high-performance 

adn suited to beach break conditions. I use 4way Fin System as a standard 

to enhance the custom experience: www.4wfs.com 

X 3 


Width: 18” 


8 

GROM MODEL 

by Dean Geraghty 


Width: 19” 

Thick: 2 ¼” 

ROUND TAIL 

THRUSTER 

by Graham Carse 

X 3 

Flat rocker template. Single concave. Round tail thruster. This is a good board for 

all-round conditions. It’s an easy-to-ride board which is super fast and super fun. An 

essential for anyone’s quiver. 

The best materials available, tried and tested. A good, solid addition to your quiver - amazing in 

small waves, but will hold its own up to 3-4’ waves. Available in any tail shape, size you wish. All 

my boards are done from start to finish by me personally so you get guaranteed quality. 

X 3 

Custom to your 

requirements 

MEXI-BEAN 

by Lee Cheyne 

PIHA SURF 

122 Seaview Rd, Piha, NZ 

Ph: +64 9 812 8723 

E: pihasurf@xtra.co.nz 

www.pihasurf.co.nz 

GERAGHTY SHAPES 

CUSTOM SURFBOARDS 

BY DEAN GERAGHTY 

M: 0422 442 044 

E: info@geraghtyshapes.com 

www.geraghtyshapes.com 

QUARRY 

BEACH 

SURFBOARDS 

75 David St, Caversham, Dunedin NZ 

Ph: +64 3 455 7414 M: +64 27 518 8678 

www.qbsurfboards.com 

LEE CHEYNE DESIGNS 

Ph: 0403 655 316 

leecheynesurfboards.com 

E: orders@leecheynesurfboards.com 

Lee Cheyne Surfboards 

94 


The “Rasta” model, standard with MR 

template glass-on fins. Designed for small days when 

your normal board won’t cut it. If you find hollow A-frames, this will take off, hold and tuberide 

without sliding out. Flat deck with chamfered rails that hold, but won’t bog. Custom to suit. 

X 2 


Width: 20 5 /8“ 

Thickness: 2 3/8“” 

TWIN FIN FISH 

by Steve Barber 


Width: 22” 

Thick: 3” 

44 PLUS 

by Goran Peko 

X 4 

Around 46L for maximum floatation in a shortish board plain shape, for surfers over 100kgs 

or beginners wanting something different. Standard PU construction with quad setup, 

custom tints and sprays available. 

Single to double concave. Great for the winter swells. 

Bit more foam to compensate for your 4/3 wettie. 

X 3 


Width: 18 7 / 8” 

Thickness: 2 ½” 

WINTER SHORTY 

by Leighton Clark 

Length: 6’1” - 6’6” 

Width: 19” - 19 ½” 

Thick: 2 3 / 8” - 2 ¾” 

THE SAINT 

Based on the design used in Bede Durbidge’s boards, this is an update from 

the original Durbo 

model design from early to mid-2000s. There’s a single to 

/ ” tail rocker and 

3 /8 

deep double through the tail, rolled deck and tail block. 2 3 / 

X 3 

by Wayne 

McKewen 

5 ¾” nose rocker. Low rails and a hip squash or round tail. FCSII 

tri fin. 

FULL FORCE SURF 

Now located upstairs at 

Shaping Co., 1/29 Machinery 

Drive, Tweed Heads South, NSW 

Ph: 0418 708 550 

E: info@fullforcesurf.com.au 

KOMA 

SURFBOARDS 

4/39 Bailey Crescent, Southport QLD 4215 

Ph: 0402 863 763 www.komasurf.com 

CLARK 

SURFBOARDS 

Units 7 & 8, 

9 Chapman Rd, Hackham SA 5163 

E: leightonclark01@yahoo.com.au M: 0422 443 789 

Available at www.onboardsurf.com.au 

Coolangatta, Currumbin, Burleigh Heads 

Ph: 07 5535 0288 www.mtwoodgee.com.au 

Join us on Facebook 

*FREE SHIPPING! Australia-wide on 

all Mt Woodgee stock boards up to 6’8! 

(Excludes Movement and clearance boards) 

FREE 

SHIPPING!* 



Width: 21 ½” 

Thickness: 3” 

SINGLE 

FIN 

by Steve-O 

X 1 

Old school, Paulownia and Cedar single fin with 

flyers modelled off a Col Smith template 

A more fish-nosed version of the Shovelhead: wide point still forward, the rocker flat and a roll/hull nose 

for neutrality under the front foot which feeds into a deepish double concave, to flat out of the tail. Rails 

upturned in the nose, spiralling to low profile foil in the tail. Quad set up optimal, and in the Fouruster 

config. Think your best board, cut about a foot off it and it’s now your best board ever!! 

Don’t let the spray job prevent you from taking in the hidden 

detail... It’s like Thin Lizzy, covering what’s underneath 

?! 

For those almost flat or full and slow days, this paddles like a longboard, is super loose and 

speeds through dead sections. Built with King PU foam, Newkem 

Polyester resin, glassed with 

4oz x 4 + 6oz E cloth and finished with a gloss and polish, it’s fitted with FCS MR TFX 

twin fins. 

X 2 


Width: 21 ½” 

Thickness: 2 ¾” 

Length: 500 √2’ 

Width: 8+ 5 /16/ < 3“ 

Thickness: 5 x 4 ≠ 3° 


Width: 21 ½” 


X 4 

WHIPPIT THE UNFINISHED 

by Riki Tucker 

by Chris Garrett 

by Glenn ‘Cat’ Collins 

TWIN FISH 

WOODEN SURFBOARD SHAPES 

BY STEVE-O 

Ph: 0421 522 503 

woodensurfboardsshapesbysteveo@gmail.com 

woodensurfboardsshapesbysteveo.com.au 

PHANTOM SURFBOARDS 

Ph: 0424 450 690 

phantomsurfboards@gmail.com 

chrisgarrettshapes.com.au 

Available at SUNHOUSE, 

41 McClean St, Coolangatta 

E: surf1770@bigpond.com 

www.surf1770noosa.com 

ENTITY SURFBOARDS - Ph: 0423 987 492 

1-2/2 Regmoore Cl, Culburra Beach NSW 2540 

ww.entitysurfboards.com.au 

96 


Area and volume to handle smaller conditions with ease but will excel in head-high waves 

due to slightly flatter rocker and bottom concaves that generate speed to burn and fluid turns. 

Burford 

blank, high quality glassing with original resin tints. 6x4oz deck, 4oz bottom with fin 

patch. Handcrafted and built to last. A super versatile board that will suit most levels of surfer 

3 or 4 

Length: 5’4”- 6’6” 

Width: 20” - 21” 

THE BENT TEMPLE 

by Paul Winter 

Length: 4’2”-5’8” 

Width: Fat 

Thickness: Thick 

MINI SIMMONS DELUXE 

by Jesse Watson 

X 2 

For all the cool kids. Loose, oh-so-skatey and the fastest board you’ll feel 

under your feet - period. Custom one-off abstract resin work, glass-on fins, 

full gloss and polish. Our highest end product - all the trimmings you can 

handle, as crazy as you wanna go - we’ll make it happen. 

Features a beautifully balanced planshape, wide point and area pulled slightly forward, mid 

to down rail, plenty of foam, a JPI 6 Channel bottom - the curves in the channels will work 

with you rather than tracking. Gives the board a bit more acceleration through turns. 

X 1 



8 

Width: 15 ½” 

Nose: 20 ¼”, Tail: 14 ½” 

THE AQUARIAN 

by Jack & Aaron Knight 

“I KNOW IT’S EASY FOR ME 

TO SAY IT, BUT MY DAD IS AN 

ABSOLUTE LEGEND - SUCH AN 

INSPIRATION TO WATCH WHAT 

HE TURNS A BLOCK OF FOAM 

INTO WITH HIS HANDS. 

“HE’S SEEN IT ALL WITH OVER 

40 YEARS OF HANDSHAPING 

EVERY BOARD AND YOU CAN 

JUST TELL HOW MUCH HE 

LOVES DOING IT!” 

Aaron Knight, talking about 

his dad Jack Knight (below) 

and proving families that play 

together, stay together. 

GEAR: BOARDS 


FUYU 

SURFBOARDS 

Noosa Heads, QLD 

M: 0418 884 242 

www.fuyusurfboards.com 

BLACK APACHE 

SURFBOARDS 

@blackapache 

Look us up... 

Ph: 0410 419 791 

blackapachesurfboards@live.com.au 

blackapachesurfboards.com.au 

HARVEST 

SURFBOARDS 

Christine Avenue, Miami, QLD 

P: 07 5576 5914 E: aaron@harvestsurfboards.com 

www.harvestsurfboards.com 



Width: 23” 


JB 

SIGNATURE 

MODEL 

by Chris Brown 

X 1 

Old style shape, with widest point 12” below centre. Rolled bottom, 

slightly pinched rails and a 3 /8 / ” nose concave. Nice trimmer and 

great nose rider. Resin tinted, glassed in 7 ½oz Volan. Runs a 10” 

Greenough Alkali 

fi n to fi nish it off nicely. 

A narrower outline than a traditional log for more performance-based logging. Hulled 

bottom from nose to tail with slight nose and tail lift. PU foam, 7 oz Volan glass. Resin tint 

options with rail bands, fabric inlays and gloss polished fi nish. 10” fi n box or glass on 9”-10” 

Greenough single fi n. A great log for teenagers, ladies or the lighter man 

X 1 


Width: 21” 


FLOWRIDER 

by Dan Bekis 

This design is a dynamic fusion of accelerated rocker, blended concaves and rail edges. 

It is a super responsive high performance surf craft. Available in step up and step down. 

Custom PU thruster starting @ $650, Custom styrene epoxy thruster starting @ $795. 

Includes carbon stomp patches and your choice of glassing schedule and fin system. 

X 3 

Available in custom 

dimensions for you 

SKRILLEX II 

By Joel Beck 


Width: 19 ¾” 


NEW OLD 

SCHOOL 

by Joel Beck 

X 1 

New school meets old school in this sungle fin design. Custom PU starting 

@ $650, Custom styrene epoxy starting @ $795. Includes carbon stomp 

patches and your choice of glassing schedule and fin system. 

BROWN DOGG SURFBOARDS 

P: 0416 455 985 E: browndogg1@optusnet.com.au 

Brown-Dogg-Surfboards 

DJB SURFBOARDS 

1/1 Mitchell Rd, Brookvale Ph: 0417 674 257 

www.djbsurfboards.com.au 

SURFBOARDS BY JOEL BECK 

M: +61 406 521 571 P: 07 5493 3539 

E: beckboards@gmail.com 

facebook.com/beckboards 

98 


This stick is a true all rounder! In big or small waves it’s great fun. With low rocker and plenty of 

volume, it can be customized to suit a huge variety of surfers. Light 6oz/40z trimmed lap glass-job, 

resin tint and a full gloss coat with custom art by Jordie Brown. 2+1 box and FCS fin set up - works 

great as a single fin. This is truly a versatile surfboard. !t catches waves like a dream, turns amazing, 

and you can also nose ride surprisingly well if you’re fast on your feet! 

1+2 

Length: 8’ 

Width: 21” 


Nose 17 ¾’’ & Tail 14 ½’’ 

CHANNEL BOTTOM 

by Jordie Brown 

Length: 8’ 

Width: 22 ½” 


TRADITIONAL 

MINI 

LONGBOARD 

by Peter Sheely 

1 or 3 

Features of the ‘60s with roll bottom and 50/50 rails, hippy tail and excellent 

nose riding qualities. Choose 1, 2 or 3 stringers, foam inserts, colours, tints, pigments 

or sprays. Volane 8 or 10oz, or 6oz normal glass, 9” to 9 ½” single fin set or box. Add 

side fins if you want. A traditional ‘60s style board - just that bit shorter, developed 

with today’s technology. 

A double-ender, well balanced board. Trim concave through middle, rolled vee through tail. 

Dion foam blank with the board made here in Ulladulla. Three-fin set-up. 

SHAPER COMMENT: I’ve been making this board since the ’80s and it continues to be one of my 

most popular models. It’s just so easy and fun to ride - like a shortboard you can noseride. 

X 3 

Length: 8’ 

Width: 21” 


8’ LONGBOARD 

by Mark Rabbidge 

Custom handshaped to suit needs, body weight and fitness. Spiral chine entry, 

Length: 8’ 

Width: 21 ½” 


SUPERMAL 

V2 FLEX 

by Mitchell Rae 

1, 3 or 4 

medium concave. V2 Flex with Kinetic Carbon Construction 

panels, to control flex 

pattern, increase the reflex/ping out of the turns. Light, medium or strong glassing. 

Extremely quick, positive and manouvreable. 

GEAR: BOARDS 


HIGH TIDE SURFBOARDS 

Skenes Creek, VIC 3233 

Ph: 0401 437 392 

E: hightidesurfboards@hotmail.com 

www.hightidesurfboards.com 

PETER SHEELY 

SURFBOARDS 

Ph: 02 4957 3161 

M: 0417 264 739 

peter@sheelysurfboards.com 

sheelysurfboards.com 

RABBIDGE SURF DESIGN 

Bendalong, NSW 

Ph: 02 4456 4038 

M: 0427 767 176 

E:sales@markrabbidge.com 

www.markrabbidge.com 

OUTER ISLAND 

SURFBOARDS 

7 Bayldon Drive, Raleigh, NSW 

outerisland.blogspot.com 

outerislandsurfboards.com 

Ph: 02 6655 7007 E: info@outerislandsurfboards.com 



GEAR: BOARDS 

GEAR 

SURFBOARDS 

Remember, when 

you support your 

local shaper, 

you’re not buying 

a surfboard, 

you’re getting 

a priceless life 

experience. 

Surfi ng on that 

custom board, 

made specially for 

you... It’s simply 

something else, 

and something 

you’ll never regret 

doing. Go on! 

Matt Williams takes a Factory 

longboard for some research and development time. 

Photo Sarah Meyers, courtesy of Factory Surfboards 

100 


Good for Sunny Coast conditions. Shorter and wider, full rounded square and 

flat rocker helps glide over flat sections but still allows for pocket surfing when 

waves pick up. Still enough rocker for big airs and big turns. 

X 3 


Width: 19” 

Thickness: 2 3 / 8 ” 

POP-TOP 

by Matt Williams 

THE FACTORY 

SURFBOARDS 

17 Allen Street, 

Caloundra QLD 

Ph: 07 5492 5838 

E: Williams.h.m@hotmail.com 

Shaped off original Skip Frye template. This quad fin fish will hold in waves up to 6ft and surf mush 

with ease. Works as a twin or a twin with side bites or as a full quad in the bigger stuff. 

X 4 


Width: 19” 

Thickness: 2 3 / 8 ” 

QUAD MACKEREL 


Length: 9’ 

Width: 22 7 / 8 ” 


LONGBOARD 


X 1 

Created off my old Wegener templates. Good for beach barrels and big walls. Will hold in waves up to 10ft. 

Length: 10’ 

Width: 32” 


Volume: 156L 

SNAPPER 

Custom designed in NZ 

by Andy Jordan. 

X 3 

Shaped from a great 9’6” longboard rocker. Curvy outline, full nose, round tail with 

vee double concaves makes this a really smooth ride with excellent flow - an easy 

wave catcher. Loads of volume, suitable for riders 50-95kg. Also a great board for 

women as it is manageable in and out of the water. A must try! Nice easy fl ow. 

TAURANGA, NZ 

(In NZ 0800 787 464) 

P: +64 (07) 5701953 

M: +64 (027) 2433011 

W: www.liquidstixx.co.nz 

4 x tie down 

anchors for 

gear 

Reinforced 

rails, nose 

and tail 


Nose & Paddle Guards, 

Rail Tape & Leash Plugs 

Travel Safe Repair Kits 

Pro Teck Fins 

102 



02 4226 1322 

SMORGASBOARDER | AUTUMN 2014 

SURFBOARD 

DINGS 

New Zealand 

RAGLAN, NZ 

RAGLAN 

LONGBOARDS 

7 days, 10am to 5pm except 

winter - catch us if you can 

+64 7 825 0544 

KAIKOURA, NZ 

SURGE 

SURFBOARDS 

Bust your board? Call us 24/7 

027 428 7453 

Queensland 

AGNES WATER/1770 

REEF 2 BEACH 

Mon-Sat, 9-5pm, Sun,10-4pm 

07 4974 9072 

WURTULLA 

NICHOLSON 

SURFBOARDS 

REPAIRS & 

RESTORATIONS 

Mon - Fri 7-3pm, Sat 7-midday 

0438 631 153 

facebook.com/nicholsonsurf 

MOFFAT BEACH 

THE FACTORY 

SURFBOARDS 

Monday-Friday 9am-5pm, 

Saturday 8am-12pm 

(07) 5492 5838 

Repairs & Restorations 

LABRADOR 

CYCLE 

SURFBOARDS 

Mon-Fri 9am - 5.30pm 

Weekends by Appointment 

0401 016 088 

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 

BURLEIGH HEADS 

MT WOODGEE 

1730 Gold Coast Highway 

(07) 5535 0288 

Sun-Fri, 9am - 5pm 

Sat 8:30am - 5pm 

CURRUMBIN 

MT WOODGEE 

2 Stewart Rd 

(07) 5598 2188 

Sun-Fri, 9am - 5pm 

Sat 10am - 4pm 

MAXIMUM 

SURFBOARDS 

Mon - Fri 9am - 5pm 


Sun by appointment 

0400 338 098 

BUSTED YOUR BOARD? GET IT FIXED HERE... 

New South Wales 

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 

YAMBA 

PLANK SHOP 

02 6645 8362 

TOMBSTONE 

SURFBOARDS 

Tues - Fri 9am - 4pm, Sat 

9am - 12pm 

0432 330 826 

COFFS HARBOUR 

SURF CRAFT 

REPAIRS 

JIM NEWTON 

4/6 Druitt Court 

Open most days, just call. 

0402 864 062 

CRONULLA 

RILEY BALSA 

SURFBOARDS 

WOODEN BOARD REPAIRS 

Mon-Sat 9am-4pm 

0412 376 464 

BUDGEWOI 

BUCKO’S 

SURFBOARD 

REPAIRS & 

RESTORATIONS 

Mon-Fri 10am - 5.30pm 

Weekends by appointment 

0422 304 078 

WOLLONGONG 

SKIPP 

SURFBOARDS 

Mon-Fri 9am - 5:30pm 

Thurs 9am - 7:30pm 

Sat 9am - 4pm, Sun 10am 

- 4pm 

02 4228 8878 

SHELLHARBOUR 

BROWN DOGG 

7 days a week - Just call 

0416 455 985 

JERVIS BAY 

INNER FEELING 

SURFBOARDS 

Seven days, 9am - 5pm 

02 4441 6756 

Victoria 

BELLARINE 

PENINSULA 

ROUSA 

SURFBOARDS 

Mon-Sat, 10am-5pm, 

0403 693 333 

THORNBURY 

ZAK 

SURFBOARDS 

Mon - Fri 10am - 6pm, 


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 

South Australia 

ADELAIDE 

WALLBRIDGE 

SURFBOARDS 

Mon - Fri, 12.30pm - 5.30pm 

Sat 12.30pm - 5pm 

08 8376 4914 

MID COAST 

THE DING KING 

Clark Surfboards 

Mon - Fri 9am - 5pm 

0422 443 789 

LONSDALE 

MID COAST 

SURF 

Call us for a quality repair 

08 8384 5522 

FIX BROKEN 

BOARDS? 

Promote your repair 

business for $15 an 

edition. Call 0401 345 201

CTRL-V DCALS 

STUCK ON A GOOD IDEA 

WORDS: DAVE SWAN 

When we were approached by Dave and Dani from 

CTRL V DCals to test out one of their surfboard decals, 

we were 100% keen. Who wouldn't want awesome 

quality custom artwork on their surfboard? When Dani 

said she would design a decal showcasing four years of 

Smorgasboarder covers to decorate the deck of a wellworn 

board, we were... well, firmly stuck on the idea. 

 

DOES IT 

WORK? 


TRIED AND TESTED 

HERE’S A STEP-BY-STEP PROCESS SHOWING YOU HOW 

EASY CTRL V DCALS ARE TO USE: 

1. Ensure board is super clean and free from damage. 

2. Lay out the DCal, align stringer for positioning and masking 

tape in place 

3. Using the supplied squeegee, work from centre to rails 

(don't touch the sticky side!) 

4. Work out any bubbles with squeegee, trim if required with 

supplied knife 

5. She’s now ready for the pool-room (or in our case, the 

offi ce/ boardroom) 

6. Bugger that, this baby needs to be surfed 

7. CTRL V decals can be applied to the bottom or deck of your 

board. We found LICK Liquid Surf Wax ideal -it's super 

sticky, easy to apply and easy to get off. More importantly, 

it didn't hide any of the artwork. 

HOW MUCH 

DCALS start at $69.95 

LICK wax is $28, but a little goes a long way. 

MORE INFO 

For more about CTRL V, see ww.ctrlv.com.au. 

The website includes a 'how-to' video to help you get your 

DCAL on: ww.ctrlv.com.au/how-to-vid 

LICK wax is available from www.balsasurfboardsriley.com.au 

ABOVE: The board takes 

on a whole new life. 

RIGHT: Dave of CTRL 

V happy to be playing 

delivery guy 

103

BOOKS 

the earliest days of missionary zeal 

in Hawaii, through to the rise of 

surfing as big corporate business 

in the most recent decades. Blunt, 

to the point and backed up with 

more evidence than a Judge Judy 

domestic dispute, Empire in Waves 

serves to inform, and at time even 

embarrass the reader, as all blissful 

ignorance shatters. 

Print or e-book: www.ucpress.edu 

EMPIRE 

IN WAVES 

A POLITICAL HISTORY OF SURFING 

SCOTT LADERMAN 

UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA PRESS 

My head exploded... Chapter by 

chapter, Empire in Waves is a book 

capable of absolutely blowing your 

mind. Forget your preconceived 

notions of the state of the world 

and surfi ng’s place within it - Scott 

Laderman’s thoroughly researched 

work guns massive holes through 

it all, to the point that your idyllic 

surfscape fantasies resemble a 

piece of swiss cheese on the tarmac 

at a highway service station... 

As both a historian and a surfer 

himself, Scott Laderman turns a 

critical eye to the surfi ng atlas, 

looking at the development of 

surfi ng in relation to the global 

expansion of western power - from 

THE KOOK’S 

GUIDE TO 

SURFING SECOND ED. 

JASON BORTE 

OVER THE FALLS/RENNIKS PULICATIONS 

Tongue-in-cheek, yet sound advice 

for beginners and a good refresher 

for surfers set in their ways. Packed 

full of tips, touching on all aspects of 

surfing, it’s a fun read and a great gift 

for a newbie. 

$29.95 from www.renniks.com 

104 


For surfers, by surfers - support your local business! 

Want to see yourself here? Call 0401 345 201. 

BOARDS, LESSONS, ADVICE, 

CLOTHING & MORE! 

WELLINGTON’S 

SURF CENTRAL! 

RETRO 

BOARDS 

& GEAR 

LOCAL 

CLOTHING 

BRANDS 

SURFBOARDS, 

WETSUITS & REPAIRS 

PLUS: Bodyboards, Surf Accessories, Dive Gear, 

SUPs, Skateboards, DVDs, Books & Magazines... 

IN STORE AND ONLINE! 

SNZ-APPROVED SURF SCHOOL & BOARD HIRE 

Shop 2, Marina Road, Tutukaka Coast 

Northland, New Zealand 

PH 09 43 44135 

EMAIL surf@tutukakasurf.co.nz 

Find us on FACEBOOK 

WWW.TUTUKAKASURF.CO.NZ 

39 BEACH ST, FITZROY, NEW PLYMOUTH, NZ 

P: +64 (06) 7580400 

E: beachstreet@xtra.co.nz 

Like Beach 

Street Surf Shop 

on Facebook! 

ITS ALL ABOUT SURFING! 

www.realsurf.co.nz 

Cnr Kingsford Smith St & Lyall Parade, Lyall Bay, NZ 

CAMP ON THE BEACH IN FRONT 

OF THE ICONIC LION ROCK, AT 

ONE OF NZ’S TOP SURF BREAKS 

PIHA 

DOMAIN 

SURF CAMP 

PHONE: +64 9 8128 815 

EMAIL: pihacamp@xtra.co.nz 

RATES FROM $10 A NIGHT FOR TENT SITES 




Tradition, Style &Soul. 

T O P O F T H E H I L L 

Clarence St, Yamba (02) 6645 8362 

WWW.THEPLANKSHOP.COM.AU 

THE ADVENTURES OF GONAD MAN 

THE COMPLETE AND UNEDITED ORIGINAL SERIES 

A“BITING AND 

INTELLIGENT 

SURFING 

CARTOON 

STRIP...” 

$29.95 

MANY MORE 

SURF TITLES 

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ONLINE 

Available from your favourite surfshop 

or direct from www.renniks.com 

CALL 02 9695 7055. TRADE ENQUIRIES WELCOME 

The ONLY Travel Insurance 

that covers Surfboards IN the surf 

www.indosurf.com.au 

If your board snaps 

you can claim it! 

Unlimited Medevac Flights - Unlimited Medical - Surfboards IN the surf 

The Best Travel Insurance for Surfers - for Anywhere Worldwide 

INDO SURF TRAVEL INSURANCE 

OVER 400 PAGES 

ON HOW TO MAKE 

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TEXTBOOK 

$79.95 

BUY ONLINE TODAY 

WWW.SURFERSTEXTBOOK.COM.AU 

106 


SLATER SAYS 

“LATER”. 

SMALL STEP AND A GIANT LEAP FOR SURF-KIND 

Defi nitely the biggest news in world surfing this year so 

far has been Kelly Slater’s surprise announcement he was 

not renewing his contract with global giant Quiksilver. 

While most of the surfing world debated the merits of this 

decision, many of us who embrace a more sustainable 

approach to the surfing industry only heard the underlying 

message: the guru of world surfi ng wants to feel good 

about the brand he represents. As Kelly stated in his press 

release “for years I’ve dreamt of developing a brand that 

combines my love of clean living, responsibility and style... 

As I embark on this new journey, I am sticking to my gut 

instincts and the belief that your dreams can become reality 

with the right intentions”. Kelly obviously had an enduring 

relationship with Quiksilver spanning some 23 years built 

on mutual benefit and respect, however this move signals a 

pivotal moment in the surf industry when its biggest icon is 

seeking more sustainable and responsible avenues. 

Kelly is a brand of his own and a proud ambassador of 

surfi ng, to not only those within the community but also to 

outsiders looking in. It’s huge news when the powerhouse 

behind a sport is looking to market himself through a new 

brand with ethical practices being at the core. As the world 

as a whole moves towards a more accountable existence 

and companies and individuals are more aware of their 

impact, it has surprised many how long it has taken for 

some of the big name surfers to moderate their affiliations 

and start using and promoting sustainable alternatives. 

Given that Kelly has stepped up to lead this change, my own 

view is that this is an endorsement for the fact sustainable 

products are comparable in performance to their traditional 

counterparts. He is meticulous in everything he does, so this 

is not a move he would make without careful consideration 

and extensive research. Since last year his quiver includes 

boards glassed with Entropy bio resin, and in recent years 

he has explored other sustainable alternatives. Those of us 

wanting to showcase the innovation and functionality of 

the many ecological alternatives now available to surfers 

are excited by this move and wait with bated breath to see 

what transpires in the months to come! 

Nicola O’Reilly is the better half of the nice 

folks from Surfing Green, a couple passionate 

about sustainable surfing products. 

surfinggreen.com.au 

BYRON BITS 

BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE BYRON BAY BREWING CO. 

TRY OUT ALL THE 

BEERS ON OFFER 

AT BYRON BAY 

BREWING CO. 

TALKING BEER 

WITH BREWER SCOTT HARGRAVE 

When people try craft beer for the 

fi rst time, there’s a very good 

chance it’s some type of pale 

ale. The pale ale family tree is 

quite diverse and encompasses 

beers from across the globe 

including English pale ales and 

their stronger cousins India Pale 

Ales (or IPA’s),as well as American 

pale ales, Australian pale ales, New 

Zealand pale ales and more. 

Often these beers have a well defi ned bitterness and a 

prominent hop character. There’s no need to be scared of 

hoppier beers. From the earthy and subtle marmalade notes 

of English pale ales, the big, aggressive citrus and pine 

resin punch of the US styles, to the tropical fruit cocktail of 

modern Australian and New Zealand hop varieties, there’s a 

lot to love about pale ales and the hops they feature. Great 

with burgers, pizza, curries and just about anything else. 

Here in the brewery, I’ve been playing with our pale ale 

to give it a voice of its own. While the centrepiece is the 

Aussie superstar Galaxy, I’ve been blending in some other 

newer local hops late in the process to really bring out the 

fruity zing and satisfying bitterness in the finish. 

But don’t take my word for it, 

why not drop into the brewery 

sometime and check it out for 

yourself. 

Cheers, 

Scotty, the Brewer 

1 Skinners Shoot Road, Byron Bay NSW 2481 Phone: (02) 6685 5833 Fax: (02) 6685 5519 

WWW.BYRONBAYBREWERY.COM.AU 

WHAT’S ON 

USUALS AT THE BREWERY... 

FREE MEAL! 

BUY ONE MEAL, GET THE SECOND FREE* 

*For details, more specials and to download 

a voucher see 


Jervis Bay Stand Up Paddle 

Lessons, Tours, Board Hire 

www.jervisbaystanduppaddle.com.au 

0403 354 716 

108 




CLOSEOUT: COACHING 

Cruising in style. Photo: Shayne Nienaber 

www.shaynenienaberphotography.com 

#4: LESS IS MORE 

This past weekend I went down to my 7 year old 

son’s Boardrider’s club round. It’s great to see the 

level of stoke in the mums and dads, as well as 

the grommies, who are hauled out the back and 

shoved onto little waves that peel across the 

banks. After judging a few heats and watching 

- all the while waiting for my sons heat to come 

up - something dawned on me. 

Most of the kids had little idea of what was 

happening except to hang on for dear life, much 

to the amusement of the applauding crowd. 

It’s all in the name of fun, and a great intro for 

the kids to a wonderful sport and lifestyle. So 

here’s the interesting part. All the kids were 

doing their best wobbling and 

wiggling around as best as they 

could and falling off most of the 

time. But every now and again 

there would be a kid who stood 

up and had perfect poise, like Gerry Lopez at 

Pipeline, with knees slightly bent, hands up, 

and relaxed while shooting down the line. 

The great thing was that he was not making 

any mistakes, and the wave was pushing him 

to the beach. So simple. There it was staring 

me in the face - less is more. 

Think about all the greats in surfing like Tom 

Curren at Off The Wall, Andy at Cloudbreak, 

Kelly at J-Bay, Mick at Bells, Parko at Kirra… 

And the list goes on. None of them look ‘ugly’ 

between their turns. We may look at it as style, 

but I reckon it’s more than that. Instead of 

fl apping like everyone else, its eliminating the 

bad habits and the result is drawing cleaner 

lines and going faster than anyone else! 

So, stop fl apping... Relax and enjoy. 

WIN A VOUCHER! 

Send in a pressing issue 

regarding your surfing. 

Best question wins a 

free coaching session 

on the Gold Coast. 

Email competitions@ 

smorgasboarder.com.au 

WINNER... 

“Hi! I can’t surf very well 

at all! My main problem 

is that I can not paddle 

myself onto a wave!” 

Emily Coetzee 

Emily, this column says it 

all - relax and enjoy... Just 

stop trying too hard! 

Clayton Nienaber runs Clayton’s Corrective Coaching 

helping surfers of all levels improve. Having coached the 

likes of Jordy Smith, he kinda knows his stuff. Drop him a line for personal coaching to be a better surfer, from 

$50 for group sessions, $90 for one-on-one and $150 for a full coaching clinic. 

WWW.CLAYTONSURF.COM.AU | 0420 267 766 


CLOSEOUT: RELAX 

ABOVE: The whole crew. 

THIS PIC: Open winner, 

Clinton Guest. RIGHT: 

Pete Wickham hangs five. 

BOTTOM: Happy winners. 

ANZAC 

DAY 

DAWN 

SURFACE 

2104 

The Burleigh Longboard Club 

have celebrated Anzac Day in 

their own way since 1991. While 

the day is a fun surf day for the 

competitors, there’s a serious 

side with thought to our Anzacs 

and what the day is about . 

This year, fortunately the 

weather was great and there 

was just enough surf to enjoy, 

with all being able to show off 

their surfing talent . 

The morning started with our 

reading of the Ode and our 

special Anzac Poem (see the club 

website for more). There were 

plenty of giveaways including a 

longboard, which was won by 

Jim Baker, a visitor from Lennox. 

With great surfing all round, the 

Open Division was taken out by 

Clinton Guest and the unique 

perpetual trophy was presented 

by a Vietnam vet, Colin Small. 

All are welcome next year. For 

more on the club, please see the 

website. 

Denis (D-Dawg) Lowe 

Club President 

www.burleighlongboardclub.com 

110 




It’s not called The Observatory for nothing... 

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locally roasted beans 

Yes, this is an actual brekkie burger 

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want Artisti 

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E: info@theobservatory.com.au 

WWW.THEOBSERVATORY.COM.AU 

(02) 6652 9011 

(opposite the 

Hoey Moey) 

Ocean Parade, 

Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 Australia 

@ the Marina 

Opposite the Fish Co-Op 

Coffs Harbour International Marina 

T: 02 6650 0188 E: thegalleytakeaway@gmail.com 

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BUY ONLINE AT WWW.ARTISTI.COM.AU 

JOIN US ON FACEBOOK & INSTAGRAM 

On the other 

side of fear is 

freedom 

Byron Sunset Happy Hour! 

Monday to Friday 4-6pm 

Half price selected Tapas (Calamari and dips) 

$5 select beers & house wine, $10 Margaritas 

ENERGY FOR A GREAT 

MORNING SURF! 

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The CTRL-V stall with heaps of decorated boards! 

CLOSEOUT: RELAX 

Winners, grinners 

112 

SMORGASBOARDER | AUTUMN/WINTER 2014 

Nice place to set up shop... Last Wave

40TH 

ANNUAL 

PA & MA 

BENDALL 

The 40th Annual Pa & Ma 

Bendall comp was run in great 

conditions over the Easter 

weekend. Small surf on Friday 

made it hard for the competitors, 

but with the arrival of a new 

southerly swell on Saturday, 

Moffats (Moffat Beach) saw 3 

to 4ft waves on offer with some 

outstanding surfing going down. 

Huge crowds enjoyed the festive 

atmosphere with a large array of 

food and surf stalls. 

The highlight of the weekend 

would have been Mitch 

Parkinson coming from behind in 

the open mens final to win with a 

perfect 10-point ride with under 

one minute remaining! 

Another succesful and very 

enjoyable year... Bring on 41! 

Terry Landsberg (Tez the Prez) 

Windansea Club President 

www.windanseaboardriders.com.au 

Photos supplied by Dani and Dave 

of CTRL-V, Adam of Last Wave 

Originals. Surf shots by Tim Love 

Photography, supplied courtesy of 

Windansea Boardriders Club. 

Dick Hoole 

Reel, VHS, DVD... 

TUBULAR 

SWELLS 

ON THE 

GOLDIE 

It was 1975 again for a couple 

of hours at Currumbin’s Surf 

World Gold Coast in April. 

The Surf World museum, in 

conjunction with Gold Coast 

City Council, celebrated 100 

years of Coolangatta’s history 

by presenting the classic surf 

movie Tubular Swells. Dick Hoole 

provided a commentary and 

displayed some of his collection of 

archived cinematic files. 

John Rankin 

Photos supplied by Surf World. 

SEND US 

YOUR PICS! 

Have an event on? Send us the 

details so we can share your 

smiling faces with the world. 


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Your best mate is capturing this incredible 

feat on his brand new underwater 

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114 


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116 


SMORGASBOARDER

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