SB_Edition_40_Xmas

issue 

40 

XMAS 17 

f r e e 

SURF MAG 

smorgasboarder 

dreams 

living them for real 

surfboard (and skateboard) shapers P buried whales P travel sanctuary P 

a tale of wax

editor's foreword 

image by Scott Beitz 

foreword 

All of the positivity and incredible feedback on our 

most recent edition hammered home an important 

point for us: It’s good to be back. Sometimes, 

however, it’s good to be somewhere else – a 

thought that’s foremost in mind thanks to finally 

being on Christmas holidays (well, by the time this 

is being read most of us will be, anyway). When 

it comes to being somewhere else, there are a 

plucky few among us who manage to do it a whole 

lot more than an annual “collapse and recover” 

routine. How many of us can say we’ve surfed the 

earth, rock-climbed in Wyoming, swum with whale 

sharks in the Sea of Cortez and freedived in Arctic 

waters? In the words of NZ MC Scribe: “Not many, 

if any.” But this edition’s cover hero, Matt Rott, 

most certainly has. 

Around the same time Scribe was spitting his sage 

wisdom back in the early 2000s, American singer 

Kelis wisely pointed out in relation to her booming 

milkshake business: “And they’re like, it’s better 

than yours. Damn right, it’s better than yours…” 

And seriously, just look at Matt's pictures (page 

26). His life totally is better than yours. And ours. 

So as we page through his story, green with envy, 

and blushing pink with admiration – much like 

an intimate moment between Kermit and Miss 

Piggy caught on camera – we can only hope to 

vicariously live through him for a few minutes, and 

marvel at how much this man is squeezing into 

one lifetime. And it’s a good lesson on excuses 

too. “Uh, I can’t go for a surf because I’m cleaning 

my gutters.” “I can’t go to the gym because I have 

stuff on Netflix to catch up on.” Really? 

To summarise - seeing as we’re on the quotewagon 

this welcome page - I’ll include one of 

our favourites of unknown interweb origin that 

encapsulates all of the above very nicely: “There 

are those who make things happen, those who 

watch things happen, and those who wonder what 

happened.” So which one are you? Seems we can 

choose. Just ask Matt. 

Merry Christmas all! Have a cracker! (Or a bon-bon 

– whatever you call ‘em.) 

3

The Balsa 

Fish craft 

Our latest Fish model is a great 

alternative to your regular short board 

or longboard for the right days. 

The Flying Fish is an EPS foam core 

performance fish which features 

stringerless flex and memory return. 

This can turn on a dime and drive 

when its required. The board is more 

for the average to advanced surfer. The 

2 ½’’ thickness of the board under the 

chest area makes this board a great 

wave catcher. 

Call 0412 376 464 or 

Email mark@riley.com.au 

www.balsasurfboardsriley.com.au 

HANDCRAFTED IN AUSTRALIA 

Riley Balsawood Surfboards are made using renewable resource balsa and recycled 

polystyrene for performance, durability, beauty and lower environmental impact 

SHIPPING ANYWHERE, INCLUDING NZ

Join Mark in March 2018 

To visit 2 surf camps in North PNG 

to surf, fish, dive, cut balsa trees and 

build a balsa board. 

Contact mark@riley.com.au 

• Wood coloured fin boxes 

• Fin boxes with all wood covers 

• Fin box install kits 

• Easy, DIY clear and clean 

paint-on grip 

• Clear board grip tape - Let the beauty 

of the balsa show through with 

clear Versa Traction Grip Tape. 

Environmentally friendly and suits 

all size boards. 

• Timber fins 

• Surfboards 

• Blanks 

• Cork tail pads & SUP deck grip 

• Aussie-made leashes 

• Raw balsa/ cedar DIY board kits 

• Instructional DVDs 

• Board racks 

• Tide clocks 

• Sharkbanz shark deterrent 

wearable devices 

ALSO AVAILABLE 

Wholesale enquires welcome 

Australian Environmentally-friendly handcrafted 

surfboards for the individual in all of us, with a 

guarantee. Enjoy Responsibly


issue forty 

xmas 2017 

03 foreword 

10 feedback 

12 controversy 

14 festival 

16 stuff 

26 awe 

38 residence 

40 island 

42 custom skateboard 

46 shorey 

48 sanctuary 

50 dateline 

52 wheels 

53 slice 

54 gift 

58 surfboards 

63 grass roots 

surf businesses 

67 aloha barry 

cover photo 

matt rott slaving away 

photo: john barton 

WINNER 

BEST NON-DAILY 

PUBLICATION 

QUEENSLAND MULTIMEDIA 

AWARDS 2013 

FINALIST 

BEST NON-DAILY 

PUBLICATION 

QUEENSLAND MULTIMEDIA 

AWARDS 2017 

advertising / editorial 

dave swan 

dave@smorgasboarder.com.au 

0401 345 201 

new zealand 

jiff morris 

jeff@smorgasboarder.co.nz 

0220 943 913 

south australia 

james ellis 

james@smorgasboarder.com.au 

0410 175 552 

skate / music 

calvin skinner 

calvin@smorgasboarder.com.au 

design 

the team at horse & water creative 

mark, kate, bryony, elise 

mark@horseandwater.com.au 

accounts 

louise gough 

louise@smorgasboarder.com.au 

want to get your hands on a copy? 

there’s three ways to score yourself a 

copy of smorgasboarder. 

1) subscribe - the mag is still free - you 

just pay for delivery. 4 editions per year - 

$25 annual subscription (Aus and NZ) 

2) call in to one of the businesses 

featured in this mag - they’ll have some 

free copies. If they're not, they won't. 

3) download or read it online at 

smorgasboarder.com.au 


Smorgasboarder is published by Huge C Media PTY 

LTD ABN 30944673055. All information is correct at 

time of going to press. The publication 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 publishers. All rights 

reserved. Reproduction in part or whole is strictly 

prohibited without prior permission. 

6


8


9


feedback 

I just got the magazine and it looks fantastic.... great design just 

like all my Smorgasboarder tees (pictured). 

Paul Tuckett 

It was nice to hear your 

feedback on our new format. In 

all honesty, it is your love for 

Smorgasboarder that keeps us 

going, so we are glad you liked 

it. From the bottom of our salty 

hearts, we say thank you. 

It was awesome to get the 

first copy of the new look 

Smorgie. The new paper 

stock is very nice but my only 

negative comment, from an 

older matured surfer is related 

to the black tone of the ink 

which seems to be not 100% 

black and makes it harder for 

me to read. Ps loved the item 

on PNG, been there twice and 

am back for a second stint 

at Tupira in 3 weeks. Great re 

birthing of Smorgo ... congrats 

all round!!! 

George Lesley 

Hey George, 

We listen... mate we’ve just 

darkened the font colour, not 

black as that’s a bit harsh on the 

eye. Hope you like it! 

Just wanted to say STELLAR 

JOB on the new issue… it’s 

amazing!! Love the layout, 

really enjoyable read! 

Melanie Jove-Parada 

New mag looks great guys. 

Aaron Stacey 

Your latest mag is a class 

act guys. 

Kevin Barr 

Huge fan of the new mag, 

it looks so damn good..! 

Forrest Ladkin 

New mag is great mate 

absolutely love it! 

Robbie Marshall 

Just received the new issue. 

Very nice, a distinct upgrade on 

all levels. 

Mitchell Rae 

The mag is looking great mate, 

the layout is top notch. 

Wayne Webster 

I had a read of the new 

Smorgasboarder over the 

weekend – great work, a really 

accessible and readable mag 

and I don’t even surf! 

Ben Weston 

Just picked up the new mag 

from the shop. Looks bloody 

fantastic!!! Well done. Worth 

the wait! 

Mark Ranucci 

Just picked up the latest 

edition from the surf shop. 

REALLY friggen Lush. Super 

classy gents. Well done. 

You nailed it. 

Darren Marks 

The new mag looks fantastic, 

love the quality and limited 

advertising plus your Bali story. 

Roz Johnston 

Matt received his magazine 

today and he loves loves the 

new look, well done! I have just 

purchased a fresh subscription 

for 2018 and a tshirt. Thanks 

heaps. 

Kylie Foy 

The new look is epic. 

Mike McComas. 

Just re subscribed. I picked up 

issue 39 from Oke Surfboards 

the other day, absolutely 

love the new format, love the 

look and feel of the mag and 

well done on charging on 

in independent surf media. 

Mackie 

10

IT'S THE CAPITAL OF 

going off the grid, 

going out, going hard, 

going soft, going over and 

just going your own way 

Noosa, home of the newest World Surfing Reserve and the Noosa Festival of Surfing, 10-17 March 2018, 

the world's largest surfing event. 

GOLDEN BREED SINCE 1969 

NOOSA’S LANDMARK SURF ‘N’ BEACH 

SHOP 

Great selection of bikinis, boardies, tees, 

thongs, fins, leashes and wax. Heaps of 

homewares and gifts. 

150+ surfboards for sale and hire. 

Friendliest staff in Noosa at this Golden 

Breed concept store in Noosa Heads. 

P 07 5455 3722 

W goldenbreed.com.au 

SURFSHOTS NOOSA 

NOOSA’S SURF & BEACH LIFESTYLE 

PHOTOGRAPHER 

If you’re visiting Noosa why not get some 

great surf or family photos taken while 

you’re here? 

Surfshots Noosa offers great photo 

packages for beautiful holiday memories. 

Follow us on Instagram @surfshotsnoosa 

and mention ‘Smorgasboarder’ for 10% off. 

P 0411 215 111 

W surfshots.com.au 

visitnoosa.com.au


controversy 

We would like to make four short points in 

relation to sand, decomposition, sharks and fruit 

trees before we pose a question to you. Sound 

interesting? We are confident you will connect the 

dots. Here goes: 

1. Sand is both porous and permeable. Porosity 

tells us how much water it can retain. 

Permeability is a measure of how easily water 

can travel through it. Loose sediments, such 

as sand, can hold a lot of water or liquid, which 

can flow easily through it. 

2. Now, a very quick summation of 

decomposition. Shortly after death, microbes 

and the body’s own digestive enzymes start 

feeding on internal organs, tissues and cells 

breaking them down, in turn releasing fluids 

into body cavities. These fluids often respire 

in the absence of oxygen and produce various 

gases. The gases inflate the body and the 

consequent pressure forces even more fluids 

out until the bloated body eventually collapses 

expelling a large volume of fluids to seep into 

the surrounding soil (or sand if on a beach). 

When dead whales drop to the bottom of 

the ocean, known as a “whale fall”, they 

can support an entire ecosystem for 50 to 

100 years. In short, whales take a while to 

decompose! If buried they break down more 

quickly, but nowhere near quickly enough. 

Worst still, the noxious smell is another level 

and a decomposing whale can actually explode 

(Google it if you can’t believe what you are 

reading). Gas builds up as the animal’s viscera 

and stomach contents decompose but because 

a whale’s skin and blubber are tough, it can 

withstand quite a bit of pressure. “There she 

blows” is not only reserved for when a whale 

forces seawater out through its baleen. 

3. You don’t have to search too long on the 

subject of White sharks and their attraction 

to whale carcasses to come across various 

studies such as White Sharks Scavenging 

on Whales and Its Potential Role in Further 

Shaping the Ecology of an Apex Predator 

by Chris Fallows, Austin J. Gallagher and 

Neil Hammerschlag for the Public Library of 

Science, which is a peer-reviewed open access 

scientific journal. 

This paper appears to identify a correlation 

between a dead whale carcass and its ability 

to attract large predatory sharks. Here’s a 

short excerpt: “we found preliminary evidence 

that shark detection of the strong odour cues 

emanating from a whale carcass may be driven 

by environmental factors. Chemical as well as 

odour signal detection and transduction are 

high in marine systems, whereby the spatial 

gradient of odour plumes can rapidly expand 

and attract highly sensory consumers (who 

might they be?). 

12


In this study, when winds were light or were 

not blowing inshore, few sharks (in some cases 

none) were present at the carcass; however, 

when winds were strong and blew towards 

the coastline, we found many sharks (up to 28 

individuals) at the carcass.” 

4. Recently on the Sunshine Coast we had our 

Mayor come out in support of clearing of an 

urban food street in Buderim because of the 

danger it posed to public safety. As he put it, 

it was “at the heart of what local laws are 

all about”. 

As reported in the Sunshine Coast Daily the 

public space in front of three properties, which 

had been home to a number of fruit trees, was 

cleared by the council because one property 

owner had refused to finalise a permit and get 

the appropriate level of public liability insurance. 

Wow, there you have it. 

It would appear plausible that a 20-somethingtonne 

dead whale carcass is going to ooze quite a 

bit of fluid as it decomposes, maybe even explode. 

If buried on a beach, that fluid is going to seep 

into the sand. With sand being quite permeable 

and given the natural gradient of a beach, that 

fluid is more than likely going to make its way to 

the sea. The recent incident at Kawana, where a 

whale buried only a few meters under the sand 

was reportedly bubbling away below the surface, 

spewing regular “lava-like spurts of blood from 

it, before sending rivulets towards the beach,” 

would appear to support this assumption. And 

you possibly don’t need to be Einstein to figure 

out White sharks seem to be quite fond of the 

taste of whale and are attracted by burley. The 

various incidents at Ballina, Port Macquarie and 

Newcastle where whales were buried at beaches, 

and coincidentally around the same time there was 

an unusually high number of large predatory sharks 

attracted to the immediate vicinity, would appear to 

support this. 

It would seem plausible therefore that burying a 

whale at a beach with high visitation is possibly 

not the best thing to do if careful consideration is 

given to the safety and well-being of the oceangoing 

public. Thank goodness, the NSW State 

Government is spending some of its $16 million 

shark management strategy budget towards 

confirming the obvious, or should we say, to 

support this reasonable assumption. 

Now then, more importantly, let us consider the 

imminent danger posed by a low hanging piece 

of fruit or the possibility someone walking through 

the neighbourhood may trip on a tree root. There’s 

where we need to throw our focus. 

As the Sunshine Coast Council points out on their 

website, they manage “planting on nature strips 

to ensure everyone can move safely with a clear 

path”. And that is the reason we assume you also 

need public liability insurance and without it, they 

will see fit to come out and chop your fruit trees 

down, sending you the bill of course! Never mind 

the council burying an 18-meter whale only a few 

metres from the shoreline with the fair to reasonable 

likelihood it may explode or possibly attract large 

sharks that could bite you in two. No, that damn 

mango is far, far more dangerous. 

To be fair to the Sunshine Coast Council though, 

there are other local councils enforcing similarly 

absurd public health and safety regulatory laws 

whilst exhibiting seemingly minimal common sense 

when it comes to what to do with a big dead whale. 

Maybe it comes down to the fact there is no one to 

send a bill to? 

So now, our question: 

Why do our local councils continue to bury both 

dead whale carcasses and their heads in the sand? 

Why do we continue to allow morons to govern us? 

Apologies - that was two questions. 

13


photo: surf shots noosa, ian borland 

festival 

The Noosa Festival of Surfing continues in 2018, 

offering ‘8 days of pure stoke’ to competitors and 

spectators alike. With six primary divisions, over 

900 competitors and many other small events, it’s 

looking to be another great festival. Over 27 years 

the festival has taken many different forms and 

formats, and this year it once again features a huge 

schedule of events both in and out of the water. 

One notable absence however is the stand up 

paddle division, which can be seen as a necessary 

change moving into the future. With the growth of 

stand up paddleboarding over the last five years 

– particularly its emphasis on paddleboard racing – 

the standup paddle division had begun to outgrow 

the festival that it was part of. Many paddlers felt 

they needed more space to run their events - more 

than the festival could offer. 

This move may seem bold after ten years 

supporting stand up paddleboarding. However 

whilst not taking the decision lightly, the Noosa 

Festival of Surfing organisers believe after putting 

competitive stand up paddleboarding on the map, 

two stand-alone events needed to be created. 

By separating the events, organisers feel they are 

helping both sports to grow. 

Another positive out of this decision? It enables the 

festival to refocus completely on pure surfing. 

In effect the Noosa Festival of Surfing will be able 

to return to its roots. 

The numerous amateur and professional 

longboarding and specialty events scheduled 

will keep festival goers enthralled. Surfing hydro 

hounds will also return in 2018, which is sure to put 

a smile on the face of spectators and competitors 

alike. The Garage Handplanes Body Bash is also 

back on the schedule. As always there will also 

be heaps of incredible live music, beach parties, 

and so much more. Now all we really need back in 

is our all-time favourite surfboard charity auction, 

so we can once again get in trouble for buying 

surfboards we shouldn’t... 

8 days of pure stoke is right. Make sure you get 

along to the 2018 Noosa Festival of Surfing. 

10-17 March. 

more info: noosafestivalofsurfing.com 

14


surf collective 

julian jett photography 

Julian Jett is a Northern Rivers-based 

photographer capturing coastal culture 

and sharing his images through a 

range of mediums including Birchwood 

photo blocks and hand-printed t-shirts. 

100% cotton, pre-shrunk and super 

soft, every t-shirt is designed and 

screen printed by hand in Ballina. 

Big ups for supporting local artists! 

ecto handplanes 

Have fun enjoying the ocean even more this 

summer with an Ecto Bodysurfing Handplane! 

Designed to give you extra speed and lift 

bodysurfing any wave. Attach a GoPro on the 

built-in nose mount to capture all your waves and 

wipeouts! As Seen on SHARK TANK! 

foam riders 

You may not know it, but Renaissance 

Man Adrian ‘Ado’ Knott of Maren 

Surfboards is equally at home wielding 

the digital and traditional tools of the 

graphic designer and visual artist as he 

is mowing foam in his classic Noosa 

shaping bay! This season, Ado has 

brought his top graphic and good-time 

game to the 2017 Foam Riders FOAM 

Artist Series Range, and has contributed 

three cracking examples of his imaginative 

linework and fun salty tee-shirt vibe 

for your viewing and wearing pleasure! 

Wear ‘em out! 

bird & hill 

If you can’t find what you want, design 

your own! Two young artists from 

Terrigal Beach began sketching their 

vision for a collection of handmade 

sunglasses. Integral to their concept 

was the use of sustainable timber from 

around the globe, state-of-the-art 

Carl Zeiss lenses, and a classic design 

binding all sections of the frame with 

internal steel rods and hard-wearing 

Italian acetate for strength. The end 

result? A unique collection of limited 

edition sunglasses that outlasts the 

others and has put Terrigal on the map. 

coastal upcycling 

We are very proud of Lily McElligott winning 

our first High School Business Studies 

project with her idea that has become 

Coastal Upcycling. The upcycling of old 

skateboard decks to very cool surf wax 

combs. The students of Year 10 Business 

Studies at Barrenjoey High School all had 

to come up with a surf related business and 

this was the centre stone of their studies. 

In the end they all had to present their 

business plan to a "Shark Tank" style panel 

made up of ourselves and some of our local 

brands. Lily was chosen the winner, and 

through some funding that we provided as a 

prize now has a nice little start up. 

feel good inc. 

An SFP 50+ and 4 hours Water- 

Resistant sunscreen for safely 

exploring and adventuring in the 

great outdoors? A sunscreen without 

nasties, that feels good on your skin 

and your kids will be happy to use? A 

sunscreen you can finally FEEL GOOD 

about? Feel Good The brainchild of 

Feel Good Inc. - a surfer, a doctor and 

a builder who conceived it around a 

campfire and then made it a reality - 

this sunscreen handles the harshest 

environments, is 100% Australianowned 

and made plus PABA-Free, 

PARABEN-free, OXYBENZENE and 

PRESERVATIVE-Free with a 3-year 

shelf-life! 

16


surf collective 

surf n’ rak 

Only one sound is more horrifying 

than Nickleback’s latest single; 

the sound of your new surfboard 

crashing to the garage floor in the 

middle of the night. You’re on your 

own with Nickleback, but the 

Surf n' Rak crew have your back 

with the other. With more than 35 

different styles of raks, you can 

securely store everything from a 

single SUP to a pro’s Hawaiian 

Winter quiver. They’re easy to 

install, easy to use, and best of 

all, they keep your most prized of 

possessions up and out of 

harm’s way. 

boomerrangz thongs 

Ever seen someone have a ‘blowout’ in their thongs? Hilarious! Unless it happens to you! 

‘Boomerangz Thongs’ patented boomerang plugs are designed to minimise the dreaded 

blowout and also allows the bases and straps to be interchangeable so you can mix and 

match your colours. With a lifetime guarantee, they offer free replacement straps if they 

break. The light-weight PE rubber softens and moulds to your foot shape and the soles are 

non-slip. Replacing the straps instead of throwing out the whole pair ensures less pairs end 

up in land-fill. Born out of the Gold Coast beaches, Boomerangz is a local Aussie company. 

dmc fins 

DMC REPELLOR® FINS are 100% Australian 

owned and designed. They’re the "Official 

Rescue Swim Fin of the Los Angeles County 

Surf Lifesaving Association" and were worn by 

2017 World Bodysurfing Champion, Dave Ford 

from California. Patented and design protected 

– this ocean fin provides max. speed with less 

fatigue for anyone needing quick response 

propulsion. DMC’s new material – SILFORM – 

make Surfing Fins That Love Your Feet. 

Where you will now find 75 of the most unique 

independent Australian Surf Brands. Names you, 

as of yet, may not be familiar with. Products, that up 

until now, you mightn’t have seen. 

lazy sundae 

Whether you’re after an ice cream sundae or a frothy ‘Sundae’ session, 

Lazy Sundae takes aim at providing quality streetwear and accessories to 

keep the good times rolling. Confected in the Australian capital and melting 

its way onto the scene there is plenty of styles to sink your teeth into. Lazy, 

sweet and bad to the cone, grab one online and give it a swirl. 

Whether you’re driven by the desire to ‘support 

local’, or you’re just tired of seeing the same surf gear 

on shelves, in the line-up or around town, you’ve 

definitely come to the right place. 

WWW.SURFCOLLECTIVE.COM.AU 

17


stuff 

photo by Bryce Wilson 

fire tonic 

Adapted from a traditional Gypsy recipe and handmade 

in Torquay, FIRE TONIC is a raw, unfiltered apple cider 

vinegar (ACV) tincture, alive with the Mother of Vinegar. 

This herbal infusion is a raw potent immune booster 

and metabolic stimulant and is recommended as a daily 

health tonic 5ml - 15ml 1 - 3 times per day. This 'liquid 

gold' is a great way to kick start every day and keep 

on top of whatever ails you. Many of the ingredients 

are organically grown at Hilbilby HQ with others 

sourced fresh locally where possible, each with its own 

medicinal, health and healing properties. Available for 

purchase online at firetonic.co.nz and firetonic.com.au 

organic dynamic 

Recognised by Sustainable Surf as the first gold-level 

eco board manufacturer in the southern hemisphere, 

ORGANIC DYNAMIC are making boards from locally 

sourced sustainable materials – building boards 

with 100% recycled polystyrene, New Zealand 

grown Paulownia and entropy bio-resin. ORGANIC 

DYNAMIC offers both workshops and complete 

bespoke customs, so you can build the board of 

your dreams or let the experts build it for you – with 

the confidence that the whole process is completely 

environmentally friendly. 

Check them out at organicdynamic.com 

supcentre 

Located in the heart of Newmarket, Auckland SUPcentre 

is a central location to stop by and get your fix of 

SUP. They have one of the largest selection of Boards, 

Paddles and Accessories in NZ - Boards from Deep 

Oceanboards, Tom Carroll Paddle Surf, Jimmy Lewis, 

Naish, and Custom SUP boards from well known shaper 

Steve Morris along with paddles from Quickblade, 

Hippostick, Ke Nalu, SIC, Riviera, and Trident. Their 

friendly, knowledgeable team are more than happy to 

discuss what will work best for you. All their staff are 

keen paddlers, and can be found regularly at the local 

breaks around Auckland. supcentre.co.nz 

18


stuff 

Jeremy Buckley 

island holidays 

ISLAND HOLIDAYS are NZ’s only surf travel agents with 

over 20yrs experience run by surfers for surfers. They 

are the NZ agents for a variety of resorts, camps and 

charter boats worldwide and tailor make surf packages 

to suit your budget, requirements and skill level. They 

have access to some insane deals and specials as they 

deal direct and have a tonne of knowledge to help make 

your surf holiday the most memorable experience. Best 

of all they’re offering a FREE Primal Surfboard with your 

next group surf mission! All groups of 4 or more who 

book a selected ISLAND HOLIDAYS Package receive a 

FREE custom Primal Futurelite shortboard. 

islandholidays.co.nz 

Photo by: Shane Ives. 

Doug - REAL SURF 

Glasser and Ding Master 

real surf 

x-sting-wish 

Endorsed and used by Surf Life Saving, 'Kymeze 

X-Sting-Wish' is a natural mineral and coconut oil based 

treatment for Bluebottles stings. With hoards of blue 

bottles arriving on our shores this summer, it's important 

to have a treatment ready to avoid unwanted trips to 

your GP, or trying to find a lifeguard who has a treatment 

(both options better then peeing on it). If you plan on 

paddling out this summer chuck some 'X-Sting-Wish' 

in your surf bag and worry less knowing that if you get 

stung your sorted. 

seeyououtthere.com.au 

REAL SURF are a full factory surf store. Aside from 

the best collection of surfboards and surf hardware 

in Aotearoa, they have a full glassing and surfboard 

repair service in their adjoining factory. Head on in 

and talk to the staff, who are all keen surfers, about 

your next magic board. The guys pride themselves 

on their workmanship and can even work magic 

on that old board you would like restored or those 

dings, snaps or airline damage. Not only that, you can 

bring your own freshly shaped pride and joy in for a 

professional glassing , sanding and finishing service. 

With the Christmas holidays fast approaching REAL 

SURF also stock a huge range of gear to get you 

in the water having fun this summer. Surfboard , 

bodyboard and wetsuit rental is available from the 

store right on the beach at Lyall Bay as well. 

realsurf.co.nz 

19


stuff 

quarry beach 

“I wanted to be an 

artist but I chose to 

be a board shaper! 

Now I get to do both. 

A slick 6.2 twin for 

me ol mate Shane.” 

Carsey is always 

good for a bit of a 

chat, a laugh and 

a new board – in 

that particular order. 

Support local, get 

quality. 

qbsurfboards.com 

seventhwave 

With 30 years of dedication to producing incredibly 

high quality, handmade, handstitched, quality custom 

tailored wetsuits, SEVENTHWAVE continue to push 

forward producing the best with the passion that their 

founder embodied so wholeheartedly. 

SEVENTHWAVE remains commitment focused on 

progressing the quality of suits standing by their tried 

and tested mantra of thinnest, lightest and warmest. 

This dedication over the years has led SEVENTHWAVE 

to become a tenured brand in the New Zealand Surf 

Industry and Community standing unparalleled against 

the cheaper imported alternatives. 

If you want 30 years of dedication and innovation 

keeping you warm and dry, head over to 

seventhwave.co.nz 

taranaki coastal accommodation 

The alternative surf trip to the point break rich coastal 

Taranaki. Set at the foot of Mt Taranaki this coastline 

offers 180 degrees of options for those offshore days 

from southerly / SE /E/NE / Northerly winds all within 

45 minutes drive down Surf Highway 45. Coast House 

is set at the midway point with secluded breaks at 

your doorstep or world renowned breaks a short drive 

away. There’s also the added option to make your own 

surfboard between surf sessions under the guidance 

of SEASONS SURFBOARDS “BJ “ Smith who can 

download 45 years of surfboard making for your 

surfboard of a lifetime. 

Coast House go to airbnb.co.nz/rooms/17335177 

Bed & Breakfast go to airbnb.co.nz/rooms/9417876 

20


stuff 

sup shed 

Kiwi’s are quite a generous lot, they usually are very 

active within their communities and giving of their time, 

almost to the point that it seems compulsory. SUPSHED 

in Orewa Auckland is no exception. They are actively 

engaged with many charitable organisations with their 

Paddle On SUP program including the Halberg Disability 

Sports Foundation and the Pinc & Steel Cancer 

Rehabilitation Trust, along with their commitment to 

many local school and community events. The reason 

we say this is because it’s always good if you can 

support the supporters in a “what goes around comes 

around” kind of way. Catch our drift. 

supshed.com 

pedal and paddle 

As the temperature rises and New Zealand moves into 

summer the scenic Coromandel peninsula becomes 

a hub for adventure sports – whether your kayaking 

amongst the gorgeous islands off the coast, surfing 

the many breaks on offer or venturing up the plethora 

of mountain bike trails. PEDAL AND PADDLE in 

Whangamata caters for this hub, stocking everything 

you need to kick start an adventure whilst having a 

team that gives you the knowledge that makes every 

adventure a good one. 

pedalandpaddlenz@gmail.com 

nz shred 

The Team at NZSHRED are now gearing up for 

the warmer months of summer, however Winter’s 

never too far behind, with year-round stock of fresh 

Snow product for Northern Hemisphere travelling 

clients. Two sports that are absolutely popping up 

in Queenstown are Mountain Biking and Stand Up 

Paddleboarding – with plenty of trails in the beautiful 

mountains and majestic lakes to take advantage 

of - you can definitely see why Queenstown is an 

adventure sports hub all year round. NZ Shred has 

the best in stock with brands like GIRO, Oakley, 

SixSixOne, Ocean and Earth, NSP and Rip Curl along 

with all the up-to-the-minute gear you'd be looking for 

to hit trails or paddle out knowing your riding the best. 

The team at NZ Shred will be hitting the water and 

the trails all summer long so if you're chasing advice 

they'll have it in spades. 

Check out nzshred.co.nz 

21


champ 

EXIT SURF not only have the latest 

and greatest surf gear and boards, 

they have knowledgeable staff who 

can steer you in the right direction 

with sound advice. Says who? Their 

shop manager Hugh Ritchie has been 

selected to compete at the 2018 

Longboard World Champs. We kind of 

figure he must go ok. 

The always humble Hugh had this 

to say of his selection, “for some 

reason I have been chosen as part 

of the New Zealand Longboard team 

heading to China in January for the 

world champs. To help me fundraise 

the absolute legends that I work with 

at EXIT SURF donated this beautiful 

9'6 Wilde singlefin to raffle off.” 

They certainly seem like a decent 

bunch. As for the shop itself, the new 

fit-out is almost complete. It has been 

a long time coming but following the 

devastating Christchurch earthquake 

some years back, the crew at EXIT 

were always determined to one 

day build the shop they and their 

customers wanted. Well, she is only 

a couple of weeks away now. 

exitsurf.co.nz 

"we are pretty excited about the new 

shop opening in a couple of weeks. 

It's going to be something special" 

22


stuff 

Paul and family. 

Leif and Sarah. 

sorrow 

Is said to be a feeling of great sadness and 

unhappiness caused by loss. This was the feeling we 

were overcome with when we heard news that Paul 

Zarifeh, the founder of SEVENTHWAVE wetsuits had 

passed a few weeks back. 

We had met with Paul on several occasions since 

Smorgasboarder began and always found him to be 

incredibly affable and so generous in spirit. He was 

always good for a yarn and a laugh. We were only too 

pleased each time we visited NZ that he insisted on 

kitting us out with his finest wetsuits to face the brisk 

local waters. 

When Paul sold the business a few years back he was 

insistent the brand be carried forward by people with 

the same commitment, or we should say obsession, 

for quality as he had. Paul chose wisely. Sarah 

Armstong-Park and her partner Leif Park shared with 

us the news we all dreaded to hear and the great 

sense of pride they have in continuing his legacy. 

“It's with great sadness we farewell our friend and NZ 

legend, Paul Zarifeh. As a visionary and a pioneer in 

the NZ surf industry Paul created a wetsuit brand still 

unparalleled here in NZ for warmth and quality. Paul's 

passion and love for the industry, customer service 

and his passion to create something of the highest 

quality here in NZ has built not only a solid 30 year old 

made brand, but has meant his staff have been with 

him for a combined amount of over 100 years. 

A great man and a great 

inspiration to us to follow 

our dreams and stand up for 

what we believe in. 

“Paul did an amazing job of creating a brand that 

has stood strong against cheap imported items. He 

stood strong in his belief in NZ made, the quality 

of the neoprene and wetsuit, the importance of our 

customers, the value of his amazing team. 

“When we purchased the business two and a half 

years ago Paul was determined to only sell to likeminded 

passionate people and we are determined 

to follow Paul's dream of having the best thinnest/ 

lightest/warmest NZ made wetsuits, the best team of 

the nicest most talented wetsuit makers you will ever 

meet and the value of our extended family and team. 

So a big cheers to Paul who passed away peacefully 

on 23/11/17 with his beautiful family around him. A 

great man and a great inspiration to us to follow our 

dreams and stand up for what we believe in. We are 

so privileged to carry on his legacy built from passion, 

love and pure talent. Our thoughts are with Paul's 

family.” 

23


we don’t know this dude 

the best 

XMAS 

gift* 

*we’re totally 

biased 

smorgasbox 

Nothing says I love you like the smorgasbox 

Christmas gift pack. We’ve put together a limited 

edition run of gift baskets packing in all the 

goodness of the many things we love: surfing, 

stickers, cool t-shirts and beer. 

Beer, you ask? That’s correct. Beer. For years, 

you’ve been reading about our fondness for the 

liquid, and now thanks to our surfing-obsessed 

friends at Sunshine Brewery here in Kuluin on 

the Sunshine Coast, we proudly present our first 

collaboration, a hoppy IPA perfect for summer 

days. If you want to class it up, Craig Dunsdon 

of Sunshine Brewery recommends enjoying it in 

goblet. Little finger up. 

We however, recommend you enjoy it wearing 

the new smorgasbrew ‘surf is free’ t-shirt, while 

reading the first edition of your smorgasboarder 

subscription, next to your beer fridge covered in 

smorgasboarder stickers, as your smorgasboarder 

2018 calendar hangs proudly on the wall. Not 

surprisingly, all these items happen to make up 

our awesome smorgasbox pack, available now on 

smorgasboarder.com.au. 

A perfect gift for Dad, hubbie, wife, postman or 

yourself of course. Get merry! 

Available for purchase through the smorgastore at: 


Free stuff Friday: make sure you follow 

smorgasboarder on instagram and facebook for 

weekly giveaways and banter 

24


1. 

2. 

SMORGASBOARDER 

Smorgasbrew 

AS Colour Staple Tee White 

3. 

SMORGASBOARDER 

Smorgasbrew 

AS Colour Staple Tee White 

4. 

Back 

free 

5. 

1. 

2. 

3. 

4. 

5. 

smorgasboarder subscription 

1 x year, 4 editions - the gift that keeps giving 

smorgasboarder ‘smorgasbrew’ t-shirt 

classy, understated yet classic 

smorgasbrew IPA 4-pack (5.9% alc./vol.) 

Sunshine Brewery collab of IPA goodness 

smorgasboarder sticker pack 

the whole collection (5 x stickers) 

smorgasboarder 2018 wall calendar 

a month per spread, for all year ‘round enjoyment 

25


a 

w 

e 

Matt Rott is 

‘the man with the 

golden ticket’ 

words: dave swan 

26


dropping in on a big blue wall. 

photo by Brad Masters. 

27


photo by Matt Shepherd. 

Today Matt’s life is spent travelling from 

one place to the next. He has boards and gear 

stashed all over the world. 

28


He travels for 90 per cent of the year, has surfed 

in over 40 countries, had his work published in 

countless surf magazines, presently writes for 

Magic Seaweed, probably not a bad looking bloke, 

pretty fit, doesn’t owe a cent to a bank and on 

Instagram goes by the name ‘The Man with the 

Golden Ticket’. Matt Rott seems to lead a pretty 

blessed life - who are we kidding, he does lead 

a friggin incredible life. We caught up with him 

recently to find out what sucks in his world. 

We’re not kidding, we sincerely hoped something 

sucked in his life but it appears, unfortunately, he 

is pretty content. Makes us feel so much better. 

Anyhow, Matt’s a very obliging, cool dude with an 

even cooler story. 

Interesting thought... Is Matt Rott his actual name 

or a pseudonym he writes under? We actually 

didn’t know. Never thought to ask. Hell, it’s not as 

if we professed to be an investigative publication 

of any description. Anyhow, we will just keep 

calling him Matt to avoid any awkwardness 

of asking the question. Let’s face it, his name 

might be Cyril and that just wouldn’t fit with 

this rugged bloke, ripped to all hell from surfing 

24/7, traversing the globe without a care in the 

world. May we apologise now if we do have any 

subscribers out there who go by the name of 

Cyril. It really is quite a nice sounding name and 

possibly suits you but not him, Matt that is. 

Avid readers of Smorgasboarder, and by that we 

are hopefully referring to all of you, may recall Matt 

has featured on our front cover on two occasions. 

Knowing he leads a pretty interesting existence, 

we were always keen for a chat and when the 

opportunity finally presented itself, we did, so here 

you go. 

Matt grew up in Northern California, moved to 

Hawaii around the age of nine and when he was 

fifteen his family settled in Boulder, Colarado. 

He considered himself, “fortunate to grow up in 

some of the best places in the world.” 

Whilst undertaking university he spent a year 

studying in Australia. Later he ended up in 

Micronesia, where he’s been loosely based for the 

past 15 years. 

Today, Matt’s life is spent travelling from one place 

to the next. He has boards and gear stashed all 

over the world. His girlfriend lives in Hawaii, his 

parents are still in Colorado and he basically lives 

out of a backpack, bouncing between Oahu, 

Boulder and Micronesia when he not chasing swells 

or adventures elsewhere. 

As for the old ball and chain or tin lids - “No kids 

yet, but I’m sure that will slow me down a bit when 

it finally happens. My girlfriend quit her corporate 

job to teach yoga, so her schedule is pretty flexible. 

She gets to go on around half of my trips with me, 

so that’s pretty great!” 

This bloke really knows how to rub it in. On a 

serious note, we were keen to find out how Matt 

sustains such a lifestyle. 

“Most of my work is as an editor and writer for a 

bunch of clients - publishers, independent authors, 

businesses, etc. My laptop is literally my mobile 

office, so as long as I have Wi-Fi, I can work. I 

normally try to do three to four hours of work per 

day, usually when I’m on flights or waiting for good 

tides or light or other conditions. I also serve as 

senior writer for Magicseaweed.com and contribute 

to most of the print surf magazines, so that helps to 

supplement my travel budget. 

“My parents also taught us from a young age to 

be fiscally responsible, and not spend what we 

don’t have. I had scholarships in uni (triathlon and 

academic), so I came out of school without any 

loans, and I’ve never had a cent of debt in my life. 

29


When I’m out on trips, they are often 

scheduled around swells or other activities, 

so most last a week or less. 

“When you don’t owe money to anyone, you are 

sort of free to do whatever you want. You really 

don’t need that much to survive, as long as you 

aren’t going out on the weekends, and buying new 

cars and fancy shit all the time.” 

It is amazing. Most no doubt would envy Matt’s 

lifestyle. How he has achieved it however is quite 

straight forward. It is just that most of us have 

failed to follow a similar path opting instead to bury 

ourselves beneath a mountain of debt. 

Doing what he does entails Matt spends a lot of 

time on the road, which is obviously fun but as we 

are informed, it is also draining. 

“Oh man, I’m pretty much traveling full-time. I’d say 

my visits to my girlfriend’s place and my parents’ 

place probably add up to three or four months 

per year, but even then I’m usually out chasing 

adventures, camping, etc. It’s pretty exhausting, to 

be honest, but I figure I have to do it while I have 

the opportunity.” 

Visiting so many places we were interested to 

know, in terms of the length of his stays, how long 

was too long and what he considered not long 

enough? 

“I guess it sort of varies. I start to go a little stir 

crazy if I am sitting still for more than a day or 

two, but as long as I am staying busy and running 

around exploring and having adventures, I don’t 

mind being somewhere for a couple of weeks. 

When I’m out on trips, they are often scheduled 

around swells or other activities, so most last a 

week or less. But if there are other adventures to 

keep me busy after the swell, then I don’t mind 

staying a little longer. 

“The problem is, as soon as I see a good forecast 

for some other zone, my attention starts to wander. 

My friends always give me crap because we will be 

in the middle of an epic trip scoring mental waves, 

and I’ll be looking at the models obsessively and 

planning two trips ahead, or making plans to bail 

early for the next one.” 

As the photos you are presently ogling over attest, 

it is evident Matt has a close affinity to nature. 

We were keen to find out at what age and how he 

developed this bond of sorts. I mean, on occasion 

I’ve left my kids out in the bush when they have 

driven me insane but it has strangely never forged 

the same love of nature. 

“Yeah, I am definitely much more comfortable 

camped out in the forest than I am in a big city. My 

parents were really good about getting my brother 

and sister and me out on camping trips, but I didn’t 

enjoy it when I was young as much as I do now. I 

just wanted to be at home reading books. Haha. 

But then probably around 18 or 19, when I started 

traveling more, I realised that I am happiest when 

I am surrounded by nature. I don’t care for parties 

or shows or restaurants, all of the typical social 

activities. I mean, I’m not an introverted hermit 

by any means, I’d just much rather be out having 

adventures in the desert or forest or mountains with 

a few good friends than going to crowded events in 

cities.” 

30




31


I am happiest when I am surrounded 

by nature. I don’t care for parties or shows 

or restaurants, all of the typical social 

activities. 

Reading this article, you are no doubt starting 

to think Matt is a bit of a show-off. I mean, no 

shirt and all, surfing, skating, rock climbing, 

free diving. That’s what I am thinking. I noted 

there is none of him snowboarding. I figured 

he couldn’t do it. 

“Well it’s always been about surf first. I was 

pretty narrow-minded for a lot of years, not 

seeing anything but the ocean. And obviously 

skating and diving are tied up in that. But my 

family has been in Colorado for 20 years now, 

and that’s just about the best place in the US 

to do mountain-based adventures, so over 

the past 15 years or so I’ve really started to 

appreciate that, and it turns out there are tons 

of fun things to do! Definitely snowboarding 

when I visit in the winter.” 

Bugger me. Is there nothing he can’t do? 

“My whole family skis or rides, so that’s a lot 

of fun to go together, especially when there’s 

a ton of pow. I just got a backcountry split 

board setup, so I want to do some avalanche 

courses and start exploring that. Mountain 

biking in the summer...there are times when I 

love that almost as much as surfing. I started 

rock climbing around a year ago, and that’s 

become an obsession. Training and playing 

are basically the same thing for me, so I do a 

lot of swimming, paddling, and trail running. 

And then anytime I can get away from work 

and be offline for a week or so, I really love 

doing long, self-supported treks.” 

32


photo by Matt Paul. 

photo by Meagan Bowen. 

33


photo by Matt’s 

brother Aaron Rott. 

34


I like to think that fear is healthy for us. 

It gets us out of our comfort zones and 

reminds us that we are alive. 

Matt is clearly an adrenalin junkie. What I was keen 

to know however was whether he had developed 

an interest in these pursuits through the years or 

whether he was introduced to them from a young 

age. I mean most of us who have kids could attest 

to them partaking in similar pursuits, albeit on an 

iPad. Furthermore, I was curious whether Matt 

planned his crazy acts in advance, actively seeking 

them out or whether they just happened as the 

opportunity presented itself whilst traversing the 

globe. 

“If I’m not doing two or three ‘adventure activities’ 

per day, then I sort of feel like I’ve wasted the 

day. So, I basically schedule everything around 

the tides, the wind, the dirt or snow--whatever 

conditions impact my ability to do the things that 

I want to do that day. I wouldn’t say that every 

trip is scheduled with a specific activity in mind- 

-for instance, we just did a trip to Iceland for no 

other reason than we found tickets for $200--but 

most of the things I love doing can be done all 

over the world. And that’s what’s so fun about 

it--discovering new waves or trails or rocks in 

other places keeps things fresh and exciting. My 

backpack is so full it’s ridiculous. I carry warm and 

cold weather clothes, camping gear, climbing gear, 

dive gear, four wetsuits, two big wave vests, other 

surf gear, sometimes mountain biking gear... 

I never know where I’m going next, so I have to 

keep everything with me all the time. And then, 

when I see a swell for somewhere new, and decide 

to pull the trigger, I jump online and do a bit of 

research on the other adventures available in the 

area. The types of places I tend to travel to usually 

have lots of wide expanses of nature, so between 

climbing, biking, treking, diving, and snowboarding, 

there’s always something to do when the swell 

drops.” 

Looking at everything Matt does looks both 

exhilarating and friggin scary as all hell. I couldn’t 

help but think to myself, ‘surely he must get scared 

at times. He is human after all, I think.’ 

“Of course. The only people who aren’t scared are 

crazy or delusional. But I like to think that fear is 

healthy for us. It gets us out of our comfort zones 

and reminds us that we are alive. I don’t use any 

sort of substances at all, but pushing my personal 

limits right up to the edge keeps me high all the 

time. Well, that and the endorphins from exercise. 

It is those moments where you are on the edge 

of disaster and somehow recover that keep you 

coming back for more, whether it’s on a surfboard, 

a bike, or hanging off of a rock. But more than that, 

there’s also an element of accomplishment. It feels 

really good to push your limits and do something 

that is difficult, and with the things that I enjoy, 

that’s often going to involve a bit of danger. So, fear 

is a natural extension of that.” 

35


And of course Matt is not only fit, fearless and 

fantastic he also happens to be a yogi and plays 

guitar. 

“Yeah, lots of yoga, both for my body and my mind. 

I’ve had a lot of injuries over the years, so without 

yoga I can’t do the things I want to do. And taking 

that time to breathe and be consciously focused 

keeps me pretty centred and happy. I do lots of 

apnea exercises and pranayama as well, both for 

training and because it just feels so good. 

“I used to write a bunch of music, but that has 

sort of fizzled out over the past three or four years. 

I’ll pick up a guitar or ukulele now and then, but 

it’s not like it used to be. And I also used to read 

obsessively, but these days I spend so much time 

editing for work that I don’t really read for fun 

anymore. 

“Mostly I just love spending time with my family and 

friends, trying to motivate everyone to get outside 

and remember to spend time in nature and play. We 

tend to take life so seriously, and get so wrapped 

up in meaningless bullshit like wealth accumulation 

and social status, and I try to remind the people I 

love that this isn’t the point of life. Or maybe I just 

want people to play with me!” 

Yeah, that sounds really cool. Matt seems like such 

a nice guy as well. I have had enough. 

photographers 

I’ve been fortunate to have a number of amazing 

travel partners over the years, many of whom are 

talented photographers. Working with them brings 

another complementary, creative aspect to my 

adventures and the stories I write about them, 

and also mean that I have images of the places I 

wander to share with others and inspire them to 

explore as well. Plus, some day when I look back 

at everything I have been lucky enough to do, I’ll 

have pictures shot by some of my best friends to 

go with the memories. What more can you ask for 

than that?! 


36


I have images of the places I wander 

to share with others and inspire them 

to explore as well. 

37


first 

The breaks we’ve surfed in our earliest years often 

leave the biggest mark on our hearts. And for 

many surfers who’ve called the Sunshine Coast 

home over the years, Coolum’s First Bay is that 

special break, eternally linked with memories of 

hot summer days and rolling waves. 

In smorgasboarder, we’ve featured everything 

from surf shacks in exotic places through to 

beachside mansions of the rich and famous, and 

it’s fair to say the recently launched apartments at 

First Bay Coolum combine the soul of the former 

with the luxury of the latter. Only a select few surf 

aficionados have the privilege of being able to call 

First Bay home, and it’s easy to see the appeal. 

Can you imagine waking up in your top-shelf 

apartment across from this breathtaking bay 

every day? Setting off on the surfy-run down the 

pandanus-lined rock face, surfboard ready and 

waxed, and paddling out in your front yard? Taking 

in the spectacular panorama of the bay stretching 

from Point Perry in the north and Point Arkwright 

to the south from your balcony? There aren’t many 

spots quite like it left. 

This allure was enough to capture the attention 

of long-time Sunshine Coast locals Mel and Gill 

Luke, and when they approached architect Ken 

Down to design a building that reflected the 

beauty and unique nature of First Bay, it brought 

back his own flood of surfing memories. 

“I spent my early years surfing the Sunshine Coast 

beaches and fell in love with First Bay, so it will 

always remain one my favourite local havens.” 

It’s Ken’s deep understanding of the area that has 

ensured First Bay’s relaxed coastal vibe resonates 

so strongly within the building’s design, with the 

house-sized apartments well-suited to surfers 

(well, surfers with a few dollars to spare anyway). 

The lucky few that move in here in 2018 get to 

literally live the dream: being on a permanent surf 

holiday in Coolum’s chilled, coastal village, and 

38


“I spent my early years 

surfing the Sunshine 

Coast beaches and fell in 

love with First Bay...” 

waking up for a sunrise surf and breakfast on the 

balcony, before heading back for another surf… 

“If only we’d listened to our mums and become 

surgeons.” 

more info: firstbaycoolum.com.au 

39


tested 

Every quality product needs to be rigorously 

tested. The more accomplished the test pilot, the 

more comprehensive the product review. 

With that established we reckon the guys at Island 

Surfboards have a fair insight into the quality of 

their surfboards and how they perform. We’re not 

too sure how many of our readers are intending on 

riding a beast like this at Shipstern Bluff in the not 

too distant future but if the maniac pictured, a Mr 

Sandy Ryan of Island Surfboards, says their boards 

are well made and can be custom tailored to suit 

all sorts of riders and all sorts of conditions, we 

reckon you can take it as gospel. 

Indeed, the whole crew at Island Surfboards are 

accomplished surfers with extensive shaping 

history. Island’s shapers include Glyndyn Ringrose 

(ex WCT competitor with over 24 years shaping 

experience), Greg Hogan (who’s been shaping 

surfboards since he was 13 and is now 100 and 

something), Terry Klemm (a Victorian shaping 

legend) and Dean Bould (one of the most 

respected kneeboard shapers going around). So, 

you can understand why they claim to be one of 

the most reputable and experienced manufacturers 

of top-quality, hand-made custom surfboards. It’s a 

hell of a lot of shaping history to be housed under 

one roof – the Island Surfboards factory at the back 

of the Cowes store, that has been crafting boards 

since 1969. They are arguably without rival. 

They can craft whatever you are after. From 

performance shortboards to fish, retro shapes, 

single fins, mini mals, classic mals, performance 

longboards or kneeboards, if you can dream it, 

they can shape it. Best of all, a shaper is usually 

on hand to discuss the requirements of your next 

custom, and you can even watch your board being 

created. 

Aside from customs, Island also have a huge 

range of stock boards in both their Cowes and 

Smiths Beach stores. And if the price tag on a 

custom is not quite what you are ready for, Island 

also imports their own fibreglass and softboard 

range from China, boards they still very much have 

a hand in producing. They frequently visit their 

overseas factory to ensure the design, materials 

and quality of the build is up to their standards so 

customers who are after a keenly priced new board 

can also be assured it will meet their needs. 

Have one more look at that wave before you turn 

this page. You can rest assured with an absolute 

hell-man at the helm, the guys at Island are 

always pushing the boundaries of their boards’ 

performance and can truly stand by the quality of 

their craftsmanship. 

more info: islandsurfboards.com.au 

40


sandy ryan - the ultimate test pilot - at shipsterns bluff, tasmania. photo: jamin mcclean 

41


the finished and 

one of a kind 

– ‘backbone’ 

42


custom 

words : calvin skinner 

In a world where almost every skateboard is the 

same, the search to find something special has 

become harder and harder. Custom board builders 

don’t exist, and even the ones that claim to be 

aren’t really ‘custom’- they more or less let you 

pick a shape and graphic and put your board 

on the pre-cut mold that is given out to every 

tom, dick and harry. After spending time working 

with the team at smorgasboarder I began to 

understand and respect the ‘art of the craft’ and 

hoped that there would be someone in the world 

still building complete custom skateboards – a 

mould built for your stance, a shape to your exact 

specs, with a graphic you’ve only dreamed of. 

After trying to find somewhere local in the land 

down under my hope was all but burnt out. Then I 

heard of Drang Board Manufacturing Group – two 

brothers (Justin & Jared Nelson) in Utah who have 

been shaping boards for 7 years. 

These guys started making boards purely out 

of necessity – they were so poor they couldn’t 

afford the best on the market so they were driven 

to just build their own. They started by turning 

their garage into their workshop, after a few 

months of selling decks on classified ads, and 

building at home, they moved into the corner of 

a furniture restoration company. The early years 

consisted of a lot of learning and long hours and 

the brothers admit that it hasn’t changed much. 

Within a year they had moved into the whole 

warehouse – and after that an even bigger shop 

to handle the demand. Over time the two brothers 

built up the capabilities, added tools, updated 

processes along with hiring employees, and began 

the long haul marathon to become a fully fledged 

woodshop and skateboard company. 

Their whole process was custom tailored to my 

exact needs. They let me dream big and think 

of what I would need from the board, and what 

sort of shape. I drew a shape reminiscent of one 

of Mark Rabbidge’s classic surfboard designs. 

I’d feature a modern downhill concave that locks 

the rider’s feet in with enough reference points 

that the rider would barely have to shift their feet 

whilst riding. The guys at Drang thought it doable 

and we began bringing my idea into existence. 

The process began with a simple shape drawing 

I provided them – they then turned this into a 

43


“We started out 

being a ‘custom’ 

board builder, tried 

making anything 

and everything 

people asked of us. 

We want people 

to be able to ride 

what they want to 

ride, rather than 

riding what other 

people want them 

to ride” 

digital shaping template, assuring all 

the widths and curves would be exactly 

what I wanted. We then began working 

out the concave – how deep we wanted 

it to be, how we wanted the drops 

to feel, how we wanted the trucks to 

mount into the concave – everything 

was custom tailored, something I’ve 

never 100% experienced before. They 

achieve this by using a unique bladder 

press, and female only molding, so 

molds can be built up like Lego – 

making customisation easy. 

The next step was the graphic – 

something that both means nothing 

and everything – it doesn’t affect how the 

board feels, but it affects how the board 

feels to you. Justin came from a printing and 

sign making background, which meant he had 

an attention to detail and skill to create beautiful 

graphics in new and different ways. Over the 

years he adapted skills learned from his former 

profession and turned them towards custom 

boards. He worked out a unique method that 

tattoo’s the graphic to the board and makes the 

classic method of heat transfers look like a lotto 

44


scratchy. In the present day the Nelson boys have 

hacked a DTG Printer so it can print onto wood, 

carbon fiber, fiberglass, as well as clothing too – 

this process produces crisper graphics than many 

other woodshops. For me, I wanted something 

simple but also personal, so I took inspiration from 

the work of 1970’s gestural abstract artist Hans 

Hartung and created a graphic to suit. 

Once the graphic is applied, they hand sand and 

hand finish each board, assuring it is finished 

with the highest attention to detail. After years 

of honing their process, they create a board that 

stands out with a unique finish that only they can 

provide. In the end, I have ended up with a truly 

one of a kind board, built for my wants and needs, 

built by people who have dedicated the past 7 

years of their lives to perfecting their craft. 

If you are looking for a custom board or even want 

to start shaping boards yourself, look no further. 

The brothers at Drang want to have more people 

making custom boards all over the world, so if 

you want to have a crack at it they’d be more then 

happy to help out with everything from sourcing 

the best materials to assuring you have the best 

gear, equipment, and knowledge to do so. 

So what does Drang mean? It means – drive, urge, 

impulse and thirst. 

more info: 

@drangboardco @drangmfglab 

45


shorey 

Australian electronic skateboard brand Fiik delivers 

something truly unique at an affordable price tag. 

Using the super lightweight technology that went 

into their innovative Mini-Fiik cruiser, they have 

developed a lightweight electric longboard – the 

perfect entry-level electric skateboard that’ll have 

you zipping around the neighbourhood, no pushing 

required. 

With their first release in the line of lightweight 

entry-level electric skateboards, Fiik made 

headlines producing the lightest electric skateboard 

on the market. With this new release, they are 

introducing a full-sized electric longboard with 

features and a price point that make it stand out in 

what is fast becoming a cluttered market. 

‘The Shorey’ features everything that goes 

into producing an excellent longboard cruiser . 

Hyperflex natural bamboo construction allows for a 

smooth, vibration-free, carvy ride. It’s an authentic 

longboard feel and performance, with or without 

the throttle on. At only 5kg’s, this board is a perfect 

commuter, beer runner, and surf checker. Unlike it’s 

smaller counterpart the Mini Fiik, The Shorey’s full 

body design allows you to execute the surfy carves 

with the help of it’s now longer wheelbase, these 

are achieved even easier with the driving force 

of the lightweight single hub motor behind you – 

which allows for speeds of up 20km/h 

Whilst not the most powerful motor the unique 

lightweight design of The Shorey allows it to 

function as a fun and lively longboard regardless of 

if you’re charging around the neighbourhood with the 

motor powering your journey or you’re just out for a 

push. This light weight design also makes the times 

... hyperflex natural 

bamboo construction 

that allows for a smooth, 

vibration-free, carvy ride 

... 

46


when your battery runs out a breeze, but that won’t 

be happening too often as the board has 20km 

range on a full charge. 

Fiik brings this board into a market where the prices 

keep going up. Similar offerings are upwards of 

$1300AUD. The Shorey’s have launched with a 

price tag of $649 AUD which is an excellent price 

tag for what will be many consumers first electric 

skateboard. 

more info: fiik.com 

47


48


sanctuary 

The last thing you want is to go on a surfing holiday 

and fight for waves. Crowded breaks just don’t 

equate to relaxation, neither does staying anywhere 

where there’s a great deal of hustle and bustle. 

The ideal holiday pad most of us seek is quiet and 

comfortable, with seclusion 

comes tranquillity. 

With people now looking for a true escape from the 

busy Indo tourist hubs, many new offerings have 

emerged, one of these is Red Island. In our last 

edition, we reviewed the appeal of Red Island resort 

in terms of adventure, this time around we look at 

the accommodation side of things. 

Nestled within the jungle, right on the beach in 

Banyuwangi, East Java (close to Bali), Red Island 

is a true sanctuary. It is comfortable, quiet and yes, 

a friendly, sand bottom break is situated directly 

out front. But if that wasn’t enough, it is the price 

that will have you packing your bags and booking a 

ticket straight away. 

The rooms come with all the inclusions you need as 

well, such as an endless supply of drinking water, 

unlimited fast wi-fi and air-conditioning. What will 

even make your stay all the more special is the 

staff go out of their way to make sure you have an 

incredible experience – whether it’s ensuring you 

have clean linen when you need it or pointing you 

towards an incredible adventure to be experienced. 

So basically the rundown is - when you have 

exhausted yourself surfing super clean, uncrowded 

waves or exploring the local area, you can kick 

back on one of the many comfy hammocks, enjoy a 

nice cool refreshing beverage whilst feasting on fine 

local cuisine for next to nicks and ponder why the 

hell you didn’t do this sooner. Red Island is calling. 

Enough said, book a ticket. 

If you still need convincing then check out their 

Instagram – @redislandtravel 

more info: redislandtravel.com 

A private Traditional Javanese Style Bungalow 

including all meals (yes three meals) starts from 

$275 per person for 3 nights. You could stay there 

all week with your significant other for under $650. 

That is unbelievable. Or if you have a group of 

mates the 6 person dorm bungalow is only $150 

per person for 3 nights. The often-used excuse for 

not going away on holiday is that you don’t have 

the time or money. Well with rates like these you 

have taken care of the second excuse. 

49


dateline 

In Australia, we like to recycle. We turn broken down racehorses into meat 

pies, unwanted wetsuits into stubby holders and discarded coat hangers 

into car aerials. We’re an ingenious lot, full of bright ideas and drunken 

reasoning, with a knack of making something out of nothing. 

In this great tradition, a brand new surf wax has been born... 100% recycled 

and quite literally full of Aussie blood, sweat and tears. 

Bradley Aubergine began dreaming of Knobs one Thursday in February, 

wandering through Sydney’s world-renowned Oxford Street. A highly 

awarded, well respected, male personal groomer, Bradley was feeling 

uncomfortable with the excess waste being generated from his body 

waxing service. His Hyundai hatchback was jammed with an amazing 27 

hessian sacks of used wax and body hair, not accepted by any of Sydney’s 

City Council waste management facilities. 

Necessity, was as they say, the mother of invention. 

“What was a boy to do?” reflects Bradley, emerald eyes ablaze while 

taking generous sips from his strawberry mojito, “There was obviously an 

opportunity to on-sell my waste products. The problem was finding my 

niche, but as far as I was concerned, I was sitting on a pile of hairy gold. As 

they drummed into us at Brazilian waxing school, we should concentrate on 

all things ‘outside the box’”. 

In a business master stroke, Bradley took his hessian sacks to the local 

senior citizens association and struck a lucrative long-term contract seeing 

these proud elders of ours remove all excess body follicles from the wax. A 

somewhat delicate and arduous task, known in the industry as ‘de-pubing’. 

“The seniors have been a godsend”, muses Bradley as he gazes across the 

harbour from the well-appointed penthouse he calls home, “the best part is 

that they get to keep 100% of the salvaged hair to knit mittens for the less 

fortunate”. 

Special blends of gluten free, macrobiotic super foods are infused into the 

hair free wax compound, adding their own alluring scents and textures. The 

result is a finished product that smells good enough to eat. 

“But don’t be fooled by the aroma”, giggles Bradley with a parting flourish 

“if you’re going to put Knobs in your mouth, please promise me you won’t 

swallow.” 

now available through the smorgas store at: smorgasboarder.com.au 

pack of knobs include: 3 x knobs surf wax and knobs t-shirt 

50


51


wheels 

From the man who brought us the FLAT PACK CAT, 

a fold-up Hobie catamaran that fits inside a Toyota 

Hi-Ace van comes this. Buggered if we can explain 

what it is so it’s over to our mate Neal Cameron to 

provide us with an insight into his creation. 

“Well, I hate seeing good stuff that might be useful 

one day go to waste. I scored a beach buggy body 

many years ago and stored it with some other stuff 

in a shed at Jed Done’s (aka “Bushrat”) place. His 

missus decided things needed to be cleaned up so 

Jed said to come and get what I wanted and the 

rest would go to the tip. 

“Well, the shed had collapsed onto the car body 

and the bush had grown over it so it was a search 

just to find it. My plan was to build another nutty 

boat out of the beach buggy body and a leftover 

Hobie Cat. I figured on calling it a CATAMABUGGY 

or a BUGGERMARAN but settled on the 

CATAMACAR. 

“I changed my original plan to put old Hobie hulls 

under it when a twin hull skiff became available. 

I cut it in half lengthways and made it fit the car 

body. Any bits I trimmed off the body got re-used 

on the interior, for example where the inner tub 

would have met the VW floor and on the sidepockets 

where the battery and fuel box are.” 

Neal chipped away at the project one winter whilst 

living down the far south coast of NSW. He built it 

at Mark Rabbidge’s place using some old glass 

and resin. 

“That stuff goes off after a while if you don’t use it 

so it was the CATAMACAR or lose it to oxidisation. 

Positioning the body fore and aft was a guess to 

get the balance correct so it was exciting when we 

hung the motor.” 

A mate of Neal’s he regularly surfs with also 

happens to be with the Navy at Jervis Bay. He 

works on all manner of craft so Neal thought it was 

fitting to take him on the maiden voyage. 

“Considering Paul’s background I thought he 

should be there for the boat’s first outing and he 

loved it. So, there am I, proud as punch and feeling 

clever when it occurred to me where Paul did 

his time in the Navy... yep, the friggin submarine 

service!! What the F would he know, I thought with 

a laugh. 

“Anyway, it goes great especially when it’s in rough 

water....by luck the sides deflect horrible slop and 

it’s a very dry smooth ride. 

More arse than class! Lol.” 

view a clip of the maiden voyage of the Catamacar 

at: vimeo.com/234278886 

52


slice 


tree to sea samurai 

7’ x 21 1 / 2 ” x 3” 

weighs 4.5kgs 

Our recent story on Tree to Sea’s latest 

lightweight Eco Boards had quite a 

few of you asking questions as to the 

exact composition of the board. With 

that in mind we have put together a 

cross-section of the new construction 

method. 

paulownia timber 

• Australian plantation grown 

Paulownia timber is used to create 

both top and bottom decks. 

Paulownia timber decks are 

approximately 5mm thick not thin 

timber looking veneer composites as 

often used. 

• Paulownia is a light, soft and easy 

to sand and plane. Strong for its 

weight it does not easily warp or split. 

Paulownia dries well eliminating or 

reducing the expense of kiln drying. 

• The deck boards are cut to the required 

surfboard shape. 

recycled fine grain cork 

• Recycled cork is used on the rails to 

reduce weight and add a more forgiving 

element in case of impact. 

• Rail profile is shaped into the cork. 

fully recyclable polystyrene blank 

• Tree to Sea believe the type of blank they use 

is the best quality fully recyclable polystyrene 

available. The structure of the blank is prepared 

under pressure resulting in a lighter, stronger, 

closed cell blank. 

• A central stringer using Directional Plywood is 

used. The unique characteristics of this type of 

plywood ensures maximum vertical strength. 

construction method 

• The Australian Paulownia timber 

is vacuum bagged under pressure 

onto the pre-shaped, fully recyclable 

polystyrene foam blank along with 

the recycled cork rails. 

• When the surfboard is removed 

from the vacuum bag, the deck, 

bottom and rail profile are shaped 

using a sanding block and small 

hand plane. 

• Leash plug and fin boxes are 

installed and the final sanding takes 

place in preparation for optional 

artwork and finish coating using 

marine grade varnish. 

finishing 

• The characteristics of Paulownia 

and their exceptionally strong build 

method enables Tree to Sea to 

finish their surfboards with a marine 

grade varnish and NOT fibreglass. 

The product they use is Australian 

made, formulated for the marine 

environment with UV inhibitor and is 

easy to apply. 

Tree to Sea hold 2-day Eco Board Building 

workshops or you can opt to build one in your own 

time. Alternatively, you can simply have the crew 

build one for you. 

further information, workshop dates, board 

building kits and all details are available at: 

treetosea.com.au 

53


gift 


With the feature story in our previous edition talking 

about the importance of celebrating milestones and 

gifting new surfboards to siblings and close friends 

alike, we faced a number of questions from readers 

about that “perfect gift”. A birthday board, after all, 

is the gift that keeps giving. It can be both hung on 

the wall and ridden time and time again. 

The question we’re regularly asked goes along 

the lines of, “My husband is turning… and I was 

thinking of getting him a really nice wooden 

surfboard, who do you recommend?” Well, those 

questions came thick and fast following our last 

mag. Must be a lot of wives racked with guilt out 

there and looking to score some serious brownie 

points. Perhaps it is some wayward children trying 

to make amends for past indiscretions or doing 

their upmost to write themselves into the will? 

On that note, I should make mention that I am 

particularly displeased with my family at present. 

this is an example 

of one of my balsa 

boards I crafted for 

Jake Drifter. It’s a 

8’0” rhino chaser 

with Western Red 

and Australian 

cedars. It’s a no holds 

barred beast… part 

diesel Hummer, part 

Ferrari. This board 

will be at home in 

10-25 foot waves. 

Features a magic Sri 

yantra pearl inlay, 

spirit eyes and logos. 

It all makes sense however that these 

questions were directed our way. Everyone knows 

Smorgasboarder is the home of beautifully 

handcrafted surfboards, especially the wooden 

variety. A number of these special craftsman across 

Australia and New Zealand are regularly featured in 

our magazine. 

On this very subject of wooden birthday boards, 

it was by sheer coincidence the next I spoke with 

Mitchell Rae he mentioned he was crafting another 

of his famed balsa boards for a certain gentlemen’s 

birthday. His Outer Island balsa boards are quite 

the work of art. Indeed, I am sure one would look 

particularly awesome in my house if any of my 

friends or family catch my drift, again. 

54


Mitchell explained the pains he goes to in the 

construction of these boards and the techniques 

that make them unique. 

“It is a long journey. Each time I build one of these 

boards I promise myself “never again”. They drain 

you of everything. Each takes in excess of 60 hours 

to craft.” 

Built with the lightest balsa from Ecuador and 

Papua New Guinea with Western Red Cedar 

and Redwood stringers, they are chambered for 

lightness, split, bent and glued using techniques 

similar to wooden boat builders and aircraft wing 

construction. Each board also incorporates 

Mitchell’s devotion to flex. 

“There’s something about 

balsa... beautiful to work 

with, fabulous to ride... 

feel the glide.” 

55


“All the timbers are curved and glued under 

tension producing a resonance like that of a violin 

or a guitar. It is a long exacting process with no 

tolerance for error. The end result is a beautiful 

balsa board that is alive to ride. 

“How I approach it is I look to load the timbers in a 

similar fashion to the wooden bow analogy. We set 

up the timbers and bend them to the point where a 

bow would be holding its maximum flex before the 

arrow is released. When the glues dry, the timber 

holds that shape. So the timber in effect is sprung 

under tension so when you flick it, it sings. It is 

quite different to a board carved from a big chunk 

of raw stock.” 

“I look to load the 

timbers in a similar 

fashion to the wooden bow 

analogy. We set up the 

timbers and bend them 

to the point where a bow 

would be holding its 

maximum flex...” 

56


pictured are several 

of Mitchell’s boards 

in various stages of 

construction with the 

final image being a 

custom 12 foot balsa 

gun. 

These chambered balsa boards are the pinnacle of 

the surfboard makers art. 

“The archival construction techniques I 

employ produce a board that will be around for 

generations, becoming a family heirloom. It will be 

around long after I am pushing up daisies.” 

In creating these long-lasting statements of his 

craftsmanship, Mitchell adds exquisite details to 

finish his works of art drawing inspiration from 

guitar makers with hand inlaid Paua Mother of Pearl 

Outer Island eyes and logos to elevate them to a 

higher level. 

“I often inscribe sacred Sanskrit mantras on the 

deck as well. 

“I believe that we are ephemeral beings of light... 

spirits in a material world. Our lives are short and 

insignificant in the greater scheme of things. I’m 

not a believer in the disposable age. I like to make 

things that have a life and will be around for a 

while.” 

more info: outerislandsurfboards.com 

57


black square in action. 

photo by Brett Dolsen. 

gear 

No cookie-cutter cheap pop-outs here. Nothing but the best shapers 

crafting custom surfboards for surfers with soul grace these pages. 

If you are not supporting the local surfboard industry hopefully these pages 

will have you questioning why. We aim to showcase the art of the craft of 

surfboard building here in Australia and New Zealand. 

58


demon fish 

Is a quad fin fish, 

super-fast and lively. 

Will handle a good 

hollow wave and hold 

a nice turn out on 

the open face. Single 

concave into a double 

into a vee. 

BLACK SQUARE SURFBOARDS 

1/28a Acacia Ave 

Port Macquarie, 2444 

M: 0407 604 753 

E: info@blacksquaresurfboards.com.au 

BLACKSQUARESURFBOARDS.COM.AU 

59


1. 

Summer’s here - 

enjoy your fish! 

2. 

SHEELY SURFBOARDS 

M: 0417 264 739 

E: peter@sheelysurfboards.com 

SHEELYSURFBOARDS.COM 

7’4” x 22 1/4” x 2 7 ⁄ 8” mid length 

rounded pin. 

Thruster setup suitable for 

anything from 1-6 foot. 

1. 5’6” X 21” X 2 5 ⁄8 handshaped twin keel. 

2. 9’1” Chok model with double blue glue lines and 

abstract resin nose & tail blocks. 

OKE SURFBOARDS 

1/1-7 Canterbury Rd, Braeside, VIC 

M: 03 9587 3553 

E: rory@okesurfboards.com 

OKESURFBOARDS.COM 

HARVEST & JACK KNIGHT 

SURFBOARDS 

2/24 Christine Ave, Miami, QLD 

P: (07) 5576 5914 

E:hello@harvestsurfboards.com 

HARVESTSURFBOARDS.COM 

60


7’4” Zen Blade 

Tricked out with gold 

Spirit Eye and wood 

grain paint 

#v2flex+ carbon fibre 

#flextail+ 

#switchbladefins 

#sickstixforsurftrips 

OUTER SURFBOARDS 

P: 02 6655 7007 

M: 0427 767 176 

E: info@outerislandsurfboards.com 

OUTERISLANDSURFBOARDS.COM 

OUTERISLAND.BLOGSPOT.COM 

9’1”-22 1/2”-2 3/4” mal. 

Perfect for summer swells or 

lazy sessions 

#clarksurfboards 

#custom 

#foamspray 

#ridefutures#burfordblanks 

#glassedtolast 

#quality#madeinsa 

#thedingking 

#summershere#madeinsa — 

at The Ding King. 

Old school longboard blended with a high performance 

I make surfboards specifically tailored to the rider not 

carbon copy cut-outs. Talk to me about your next 

custom. Shortboards through to longboards and 

everything in between. 

THE DING KING / 

CLARK SURFBOARDS 

Units 7 & 8, 9 Chapman Road, 

Hackham, SA 

E: leightonclark01@yahoo.com.au 

M: 0422 443 789 

RABBIDGE SURFBOARDS 

P: 02 4456 4038 

M: 0427 767 176 

E: markrab88@gmail.com 

61


1. 

2. 

Yay its finally finished 

6’2” × 20 1/4” x2 5 / 8” 

36.1 litres modern 

single fin for Simon 

Giles. 

#markbensonshapes 

#cutlapresintint 

#glosspolish 

#burfordblanks 

#madeinsa 

3. 

4. 

MR DAMAGE 

SURFBOARDS 

44 hill street, 

Port Elliot, SA 

P: 0416 199 764 

E: mark@mrdamagesurfboards.com.au 

Designed for summer fun this board 

is short and wide for those that 

want the volume but not the length 

in smaller waves. Paddles like a mal 

and is very flat and is built for speed 

with low entry and exit rockers. 

Full boxy rails for buoyancy and 

forgiveness are paired with double 

to single concave to help with 

lift and turns as well as rail to rail 

maneuverability. The Frotha works 

well as both a quad or thruster and 

comes with a diamond swallow tail 

for the beginner to advanced surfer 

looking for small wave fun. 

Ride this board 4-6” shorter than 

you regular board ideally in 1-3ft 

plus conditions. 

ISLAND SURFBOARDS 

147 THOMPSON AVENUE, COWES VIC 

P: 03 5952 2578 | E: cowes@islandsurfboards.com.au 

225 SMITHS BEACH ROAD, SMITHS BEACH, VIC 

P: 03 5952 3443 | E: cowes@islandsurfboards.com.au 

ISLANDSURFBOARDS.COM.AU 

Got a surfboard fetish? Chris Garrett is always 

happy to facilitate and satisfy your cravings. 

1. Luxe Twin 

2. Slipper 

3. Slip Streamer 

4. Go Go Fish 

CHRIS GARRETT SHAPES / 

PHANTOM SURFBOARDS 

M: 0424 450 690 

E: phantomsurfboards@gmail.com 

CHRISGARRETTSHAPES.COM.AU 

Custom surfboards, contact Chris or 

see Board Culture at Mermaid Beach 

for stock boards 

62


the heart of the surf community 

Women’s Surf Retreats 

with PAM surf BURRIDGE directory 

0427 300 095 

bondi sup 

FREE LESSON with every sup purchase. 

We stock only quality brands, and offer 

expert advice. Caledonian Road, Rose Bay 

& Marine Parade, Watsons Bay 

M: 0438 844 926 

E: enquiries@bondisup.com.au 

bondisup.com.au 

t 

womens surf retreats 

Learn to surf with former world champ 

Pam Burridge at Mollymook on the 

beautiful South Coast of NSW. Bring a 

group of friends & stay in our Retro Beach 

www.pamburridge.com 

Cottage. Enjoy a fun weekend with your 

mates…..For details M: 0427 300 095 

pamburridge.com 

“Three kinds of 

knobs to rub all 

over your board” 

stoked to be a local 

Red Herring is Tasmania’s premier and 

original surf retail store opening in 1971 

and located in Burnie, Launceston, 

Glenorchy and the flagship store in Hobart 

(look for the kombi on the roof). 

redherringsurf.com.au 

preece’s surf shop 

Plenty of new and used surfboards, 

bodyboards, wetsuits, clothing and 

accessories. The only surf shop right on 

the coast. Open 7 days. 

159 Esplanade, Port Noarlunga Sth, SA 

P: 08 8386 0404 

preece-sthport-surf.com.au 

TRAVEL INSURANCE 

www.indosurf.com.au 

knobs surf wax 

Waxy stuff that makes sticky 

knobs on your surfboard. You 

know what it is, so why buy the 

hoity toity super serious brands? 

Surf and smile. 

surfknobs.com.au 

indo surf travel insurance 

Experienced surfers have relied on this for 

decades. Covers UNLIMITED Emergency 

Flights, Hospitals and Doctors overseas. 

$10 Refund: Email Code: SMORG$10. 

indosurf.com.au 

stand up in the bay 

Stand Up Paddle Experiences, Tours & 

Hire in Jervis Bay. Come and find out why 

stand up paddling is one of the fastest 

growing sports in the country. 

P: 0403 354 716 

jervisbaystanduppaddle.com.au 

63


support the grassroots 

surf directory 

Rob’s Beach Shack 

rob’s beach shack 

I’m clearing out all of the following; 50 surf contest posters, over 50 

VHS surfing tapes, over 2000 original surf decals (several 53 years 

old) and some of the most desirable vintage boards of all time. 

M: 0425 700 648 

E: annedunn1949@gmail.com 

the timber board shop 

A good friend once told me “There is simply nothing like the feeling of 

a traditional wooden surfboard you’ve built by hand under your feet 

on that perfect day”. Hollow chambered balsa blanks, Alaia blanks, 

Paulownia timber & surf accessories. 

P: +64 21 083 86148 | thetimberboardshop.co.nz 

the surf emporium 

Clothing, wetsuits, surfboards, surfboard and wetsuit rentals. 

Open 7 days 9am – 5pm 

Volcom Lane, Raglan 

P: 647 282 0018 E: info@raglansurfemporium.com 

raglansurfemporium.com 

coolest spot in town 

A front row seat to beautiful Lyall Bay, Wellington’s top surf spot and 

the best brunch around! 

Located at Lyall Bay at Wellington. Opened 7am – 5pm 

maranuicafe.co.nz 

the board shop 

New Zealand’s Surf Specialists – The Board Shop has been at 

the cutting edge of hi-tech epoxy surfboard, longboard and SUP 

technology for over 20 years. Drop in or check them out online. 

49 Barrys Point Rd, Takapuna, Auckland 

P: +64 9 486 0930 | theboardshop.co.nz 

locks for your boards 

Boards Get Stolen – lock yours down. 

Lock any board down with Kanulock lockable tiedowns. Uncuttable 

by knife and stainless steel reinforced. 

P: 02 6687 6541 Email: info@kanulock.com 

www.kanulock.com 

64


the heart of the surf community 

superbank accommodation 

Any closer to the Superbank – you’d be in the line up! Self-contained 

north facing apartments across from some of the most stunning surf 

on the Gold Coast. If you love surfing – this is the place to stay! 

190 Marine Parade, Rainbow Bay, Coolangatta 

P: 07 5599 0666 columbiaapartments.com.au 

find all your sup needs 

Free Lesson with every new SUP purchase. Cronulla Standup 

Paddleboard Shop and School is the best place to get all your SUP 

needs and learn all the techniques to ride your board. We stock only 

quality boards and our experienced and expert coaches can guide 

you the whole way! 

M: 0400 085 823 E: enquiries@cronullasup.com.au 

cronullasup.com.au 

surfware australia 

So much surf gear in store you will be amazed! 

From surfboards to skateboards, wetties, surfwear and all the latest 

gadgets. STAND UP PADDLE BOARD PACKS FROM $950 

(includes board, paddle & leash). LAYBY NOW FOR XMAS!! 

2 Bulock Street, Caloundra Qld 

P: 07 5491 3620 surfwareaustralia.com 

surfing accessories 

We have Australia’s hottest new surfing accessories to keep you 

in the surf longer. Our innovative products can help you enjoy the 

surf and outdoors even more and provide you with protection and 

comfort as you follow your passion! Stockists of H2Odyssey webbed 

gloves and X-STING-WISH®IT. Organic sting relief. 

seeyououtthere.com.au 

tried and trusted blanks 

Family owned and run for the past 55 years, our consistency is the 

best in the world. Our blanks come in a multitude of different lengths, 

rockers and weights. We also have an extensive variety of timber 

stringers of varying widths. And we have all the shaping tools you 

need to make a board from scratch! 

5 Stewart Road, Currumbin Qld 

P: 07 5534 3777 burfordblanksaustralia.com.au 

for your culinary delights 

The Rivermouth General Store. Great coffee + speciality teas, 

gourmet food, fresh juices, smoothies, art, awesome vibe, surfing 

stories + the floor is worth reading. 

101 Sunpatch Parade, Tomakin Nsw 

Instagram: @therivermouth 

Facebook: The Rivermouth General Store 

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support the grassroots 

treehugger ...wax created surf with wax the environmentally 

conscious surfer in mind. 

All natural surf wax created with the 

environmentally conscious surfer in mind. 

Our wax is a statement of sustainability 

without COLD compromising COOL WARM performance. TROPICAL 

treehuggerwax.com 

ORDER ONLINE AT: 

www.treehuggerwax.com 

PIHA 

DOMAIN 

MOTOR CAMP 

piha domain motor camp 

Camp on the beach in front of the iconic 

Lion Rock, at one NZ’s top surf breaks. 

Rates from $18 a night for tent sites. 

E: pihacamp@xtra.co.nz 

P: +649 812 8815 

raglan longboards 

Quality surfboards Long or Short 

Short or Long term rentals 

Mickey T. custom shapes 

Full repair service. 

P: +64 7-825 0544 

raglanlongboards.co.nz 

retired surfers fraternity 

Join and form a chapter at your local 

beach. Meet fraternity members while 

travelling. Membership and merchandise 

packages available. 

retiredsurfersfraternity.com 

sup centre 

Life’s better standing up. A one stop 

shop for everything SUP with the best 

brands, range, prices and expertise. With 

access to all the major SUP brands in NZ, 

through a nationwide delivery service. 

20 Melrose Street, Newmarket, NZ 

P: +64 09 520 3366 

supcentre.co.nz 

standup paddle boarding nz 

South Island’s complete SUP centre. 

Lessons, hire, demo, training, sales. 

Unit 2, 1030 Ferry Road, 

Christchurch NZ 

P: 0064 3 384 5086 

groundswell.co.nz 

brunswick surf shop 

Choc full of awesome threads, sunnies, 

GoPROs, surf and skate accessories, 

Mongo Sups, Therapy and Loose 

Industries Surfboards has the locals 

frothing. 

1/12 The Terrace, Brunswick Heads NSW 

p: 02 6685 1283 

brunswicksurf.com.au 

for 

more 

enquiries 

new zealand 

jiff morris 

jeff@smorgasboarder.co.nz 

0220 943 913 

australia 

dave swan 

dave@smorgasboarder.com.au 

0401 345 201 


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Artwork by @oh_ocean

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