Surf’s Up

PACK YOUR BOARD

What do Express Point (Phillip Island) and The Superbank (Gold Coast) have in common? They’re two of the 10 classic waves to surf, according to the sixth edition of The Surfer’s Travel Guide: Australia. With this book, you’ll know where the best Aussie waves are, how to get there and what dangers lurk beneath. Available at major bookstores. Published by Liquid Addictions AU$29.95, ISBN 9780975155622.

SLIP, SLOP, SLAP

Invisible zinc has got to be the best thing since… the original zinc! Get hold of Cancer Council Australia’s non-greasy Classic sunscreen for the face and body made with 100% new-generation microfine zinc cream and do your bit for cancer research and education. It’s water resistant for up to four hours – perfect for surfers! Freecall 1300 364 515 for stockists.

GET INTO GEAR

Strut your stuff in the latest Billabong Summer 07 collection. Whether it’s the new organic tee or a wetsuit against the chill, Billabong’s range of surf wear and surf gear is for those planning their summer around the next perfect break. For stockists, call +61 (7) 5589 9899.

STAY FIT, LOOK GOOD

Seven-time world surfing champion Layne Beachley has launched a line of sporting apparel, Layne Beachley Athletic. “I feel that the 25–45 year old market isn’t fully being catered to in athletic wear and I had a desire to provide a product that will encourage women to feel comfortable in their own skin before they hit the gym or begin an exercise regime,” says Beachley. Available exclusively at Kmart.

CHRISTMAS ACTION

At only 19, and a World Tour rookie at that, Rip Curl surfer Stephanie Gilmore has defended her NAB Beachley Classic crown and reclaimed her World No. 1 spot, beating Brazilian sensation Silvana Lima. We caught up with her.

How did you get into surfing? Did you go to surf school?
My dad got me into surfing when I was nine years old; I didn’t attend any surf schools.

What do you love most about surfing?
The ever-changing ocean and waves are the best – it’s always fresh and interesting.

What’s a good surf program?
The Rip Curl Girls Go Surfing Day, held in December, is an awesome program which encourages girls to get into the water.

Any tips for newbie surfers?
Confidence in your own swimming ability is always important, especially in the ocean. And the basics like a bigger board that has more flotation to make it easier when beginning. Sunscreen and zinc are a must – and a smile.

What surf lingo is useful?
The word “sick” is used a lot, meaning good or great (sick turn, sick wave). “Insane” is used a fair bit too. You may hear the word “kook” and that is usually someone less coordinated when surfing. Other than that it’s all pretty normal, we’re still human!

Any exciting events coming up?
In December we’re in Hawaii finishing off the tour for the year. Our last event is in Honolua Bay in Maui and someone will be crowned the 2007 ASP Women’s World champ!

BUILDING A BETTER BOARD

McTavish Designs is a surfboard company based in New South Wales’ Byron Bay. Founded by die-hard surfer Bob McTavish in 1962, the company now supplies its cool and cutting-edge boards to more than 29 countries. Managing director Ben Harper tells us what makes a beautiful board.

What makes a good surfboard?
A great surfboard design is one that suits the surf conditions and makes the owner surf well.

My favourite surf break in the world is Wategos Beach, a north-facing beach with gentle waves in my home town of Byron Bay. My favourite board for this spot is Australia’s best-selling longboard – the McTavish Fireball.

Your board should be well suited to your body type, experience level, height, weight, fitness and the type of conditions you want to ride.

How can we get the most out of surfing?
If you’re just starting out, take a few lessons from a reputable licensed surf school. Spend some time watching good surfers at your local break. Follow basic rules and surf lore – be respectful and courteous in the water. Be prepared, and make sure you have the right board and good quality accessories (wax, leash and board bag). Be sun smart and wear a protective rash guard! Surfing promotes a positive, healthy lifestyle.