Riley Balsa Wood Surfboards

Absolutely amazing! Can’t recommend more highly. Excellent communication and service. Product is just as described and awesome quality. Exceptional customer service, prompt, efficient and friendly service. This guy is a legend! Happy to give advice and help where he can ! Don’t go anywhere else.

Hi Mark,

In 2022, you led my 12y/o son build a balsa fish. He loves and uses the board. Thought I'd acknowledge the experience and congratulate you for 30 years 👏🏼

Kicked out of a school, he was resisting home schooling and 'being different'. I was, too.

There were massive rains. Your creek was flooding, and it was tough for a new rider and pillion, Manly to Miranda in peak hr.

Covid had all kinds of effects.

Last but not least - on our scheduled 3rd day, I copped a bee on the bridge of my nose. See before and after pics for your amusement.

Life goes on.

Congratulations on your innovation and passion.

Stephen

Hi Mark, got to Surf the new board today, it was hard to put wax on it as it looked so good! It felt amazing in pretty sizable Surf at Dixon Park, it has certainly sparked some conversations when I have shown people(I had it on display at our market stall today) so hopefully that gets the timber board numbers up, not sure how I will be ever be able to get back on my old boards now after surfing on that you helped me build...!!
Thanks again
Jason
Newy Surf Co

Hi Mark, got to Surf the new board today, it was hard to put wax on it as it looked so good! It felt amazing in pretty sizable Surf at Dixon Park, it has certainly sparked some conversations when I have shown people(I had it on display at our market stall today) so hopefully that gets the timber board numbers up, not sure how I will be ever be able to get back on my old boards now after surfing on that you helped me build...!!
Thanks again
Jason
Newy Surf Co

Good communication, everything showed up on time.

I usually don't write reviews, however you really deserve a thank you. You guys were so fast at getting the Balsa blocks to me and they are really good quality.

"Stellar service from Mark Riley. Ordered eight $9'6"$ balsa sticks for a gun build on the North Shore; they were quoted and delivered from Australia to Hawaii in under a week. The grain and section sizes are world-class. If you need high-quality balsawood, Mark is the man to talk to."

Great experience with Mark! Board even better than expected. Highly recommend

I have ridden many boards over the years, but crafting my own with my two sons was truly special. Working with Mark Riley, an experienced surfer and skilled craftsman, made the experience both inspiring and rewarding.
The process was clearly structured and easy to follow, with each step carefully explained so we understood not just how, but why. His expertise gave us confidence, and he ensured everything was done safely and efficiently.
What stood out most was his ability to build our skills through patient guidance and hands-on learning, striking a great balance between instruction and independence. His calm, friendly approach made the experience enjoyable throughout.
All timelines were met as promised, reflecting his professionalism. The final fibreglass finish on our boards exceeded expectations.
Overall, it was a memorable and worthwhile experience. We left with high-quality boards that paddle and surf exceptionally, new skills, and great family memories. I would highly recommend these classes to anyone wanting a deeper connection to surfing through craftsmanship.

Mark sent me 2 amazing pieces of perfectly quarter sawn cedar boards that are in the process of becoming the sides of a plectrum shaped guitar. While it won't surf very well, it will sound better than his surfboards (grin) - quality product, quick delivery, a great deal

Thank you kindly guys and girls 🙏

• Hi Mark, thanks for the photos much appreciated. We all were impressed with the finished boards and looking forward to trying them out. James and Natasha will give theirs a good workout, especially James who has the skills. I am hoping to advance my poor beginners skills on a great new board. I think Natasha’s board may end up bumping off the old Shane board that Gavin got renovated for a wall feature.
Regards Nigel

A fantastic course with an amazing finished product at the end. Mark is a fountain of knowledge and experience and a steady guiding hand. 10/10 - have already recommended to friends.

I was a little bit disappointed. I thought it come in a jar, not in a plastic bag, but anyway the product is great. It makes it easy to use on my models which makes it easier to sand and thank you

Hi, received some of your balsa putty yesterday for working on balsa RC plane bloody fantastic stuff. I've tried a couple of so-called modelling putties, but compared to your product, they were all shit. Keep up the good work, Steve