Events

The Evolution of Wooden Surfboards

T-Shirts $50 and free delivery.

 Dates - Friday 26th September to Tuesday 14th October 2025

 Hazelhurst Regional Gallery & Arts Centre

782 Kingsway, Gymea NSW 2227

30 Wood boards on display and accessories

You will have a chance to win a Surf Holiday for 2 people to Papua New Guinea and stay at the very cool Nusa Island Resort https://www.nusaislandretreat.com/

You will be flying Air Nuigini in style on the new Airbus 220 check out https://www.airniugini.com.pg/

SPECIAL GUESTS AND SPEAKERS AND SHOWS

From the waves of Peru in 1500s to India and the Polynesian islands to the vibrant beaches of Hawaii, the evolution of the wood surfboard has been a journey of craftsmanship and innovation. This immersive show takes you through the rich history of wood surfboards, beginning with early designs made from dense hardwoods, to the lightweight balsa wood boards of Hawaii and the USA, and the plywood creations that emerged in Australia. Today, the possibilities are endless, with boards crafted from materials like balsa wood, agave, and paulownia, showcasing every imaginable style. Step into this world of tradition and transformation, and dream of riding the waves on a beautifully handcrafted eco friendly wood surfboard.

SUPPORTED BY -

Riley Balsawood Surfboards

Jackson Surfboards

Farrelly Surfboards

Bennett Surfboards

Smorgasboarder Magazine

PAINT ON GRIP

Outer island surfboards

Sam Egan Surfboards

Bob Brown Surfboards

PLANT TECH BLANKS

Featuring renowned surfboard shapers and industry legends, including:

  • Jim Parkinson and Dave Mattison (Jackson Surfboards)
  • John Veage (Jackson Surfboards)
  • Mitchell Rae (Outer Islands Surfboards)
  • Dick Van Strallen (DVS Surfboards)
  • Sam and Luke Egan
  • Bob Brown
  • Greg and Tom Bennett

 

Topics include:

  • How foam core and solid balsawood surfboards are made
  • The history of wooden boards
  • Jackson Surfboards in the early days
  • The story of balsa wood and Riley
  • Women and their wood boards

If you have a wood board - contact mark@riley.com.au

To purchase merch - https://balsawoodsurfboardsriley.com/products/shirts-books-entry-shows-hats?variant=42393145114710