TJS | POV - Richard Kenvin from The Surfer's Journal on Vimeo.
The Bobsled by Bob Mctavish
After nearly a decade of FISH boards getting us long boarders back on shorter equipment, there is a new solution on the horizon… The BOBSLED!
Fishes are fine if you surf them flat, and are happy to move your back foot around between manouvres, so you can get power into those fins right out on the rail. But if you wanna jam more VERTICAL, the fish doesn’t really wanna go there. The BOBSLED solves this problem by pulling the tail width in, and closing up the fin-spread, allowing you to snap from rail-to-rail instantly without moving your foot to find a point to dominate your fins. In other words, the Bobsled surfs like a regular board, but with paddle power supplied by a wider mid and nose template, like a fish.
But how do you make a wider board roll fast onto it’s rail so it can go vertical? The answer there is the classic McTavish bottom shape: Concave down the centre for LIFT, then BEVELS along the underside rails to soften it’s feel… instead of a cranky flat or full rail-to-rail concave, the bevels make the board feel NARROWER, and allow easy banking onto the rail into the turn.
The RAILS are boxy, carrying more paddling VOLUME out to the edges where thay can displace some water. No point in having a board measure 3.5 inches thick in the centre if the deck is heavily rolled, shedding all the volume and creating an uncomfortable rolled feel underfoot.
The fin set-up is pure QUAD, the fastest, best feeling combo on the planet! (But only if you get the fin-spread right, as we do. We’ve tested our quad spread on our team, from young short-board shredders all the way to us older vast experienced surf designers.)
LENGTHS are ranging from 5’5 (like the one I made for Slater) all the way up to the mid sevens. It’s that VERSATILE.
The BOBSLED… The new bankable, fast reactive high-speed shorter-board from the McTavish Team.
More Japanese Fish Fry 2009 pics
Gold Coast shaper Woody Jack had a range of boards he took with him
A big thanks to Yutaka Ono for sending these shots of the Japanese Fish Fry 2009. A wide range of different craft as well flex tail longboards, spoons and a see through longboard.
Something different ?
Local Gold Coast shaper and artist Richard Harvey has had these in his sketch book for a while and finally found time to make it happen. The Alaia Sandle, a cross between the Hawaiian Alaia surfboard and the Japanese Geta Sandal. Made from laminated cedar and pine with jute rope straps. See them along with other timber boards and surfing paraphernalia at the Wooden Surfboards Day Sunday 9th August - The Currumbin Alley Gold Coast
www.harveysurf.com and www.woodensurfboards.blogspot.com
Fish Fry Japan 2009
All the pics below were kindly forwarded to me by Dave Verrall / Diverse Surfboards (above) from the Gold Coast who went to this years Japanese event.
Looks like they they had a fun day and a good turnout. A big thanks to Dave.
The Wood Biscuit by Grain
The Wood Biscuit
" Grain Surfboards and Channel Islands Surfboards are pleased to announce a new partnership. Using our tried and true wood construction method, we'll be rendering some of the Channel Islands surfboard line using sustainable-yield cedar, low VOC epoxy, even bamboo cloth instead of glass for those who want it. We're starting with Rob Machado's board, the Biscuit, a stubby wave-catcher for knee to head-high surf. Our first size will be the 6'2" with more to follow. Soon, these boards will be available as kits as well.
Working with CI to deliver wood versions of their boards is really exciting for us and inspires us to think about the unusual nature of this project. We're tempted to make some comparisons with the arrangements some well-respected shapers have entered into with epoxy pop-out factories. Where pop-outs are machine made, our boards couldn't be more hand-crafted. Where pop-outs can feel corky, ours are solid with great glide and speed. And with more and more boards made overseas (where environmental laws are often lax) being able to get a board made in Maine by folks who make their impact on the planet a daily conversation is becoming a revolutionary choice."
Fishy day at The Alley
Not a grain of sand left over the rocks after the storm. Tip toe bro.
Another great day at The Alley. The water is still warm , shorts and rashie. We had the fish out for a spin. Great shots taken by Shane.
Wild surf again this year at The Alley
The Alley and the rest of the Gold Coast were hammered on the weekend with 10m plus seas and high winds that closed the beaches . We ended up with huge seas and floods not seen since 1974. We had 365mm of rain in 24 hours (15 inches). This is the 3rd lot of floods we have had this year and we have had swell since mid March. All photos are by Craig Halstead. For Craig's great video footage go to : www.coastalwatch.com.au
Quad Keel combo
Here is an interesting take on fins and placement of plugs to give a few options. This comes from the guys at Classic Malibu in Noosa. www.classicmalibu.com.au These guys make some nice boards.
The latest issue of Surfing World.
The latest issue is a very insightful read on shaping and the directional change some shapers are moving towards. Kelly Slater has written a piece on what his thoughts are and why he is shaping his own boards.It's interesting how the fish has influenced many and the place the quad is playing. Jason Stevenson, Mark Richards, Greg Webber, Neil Purchase jnr. and where they are heading. Interesting reading cover to cover.Not another mag with a surf trip to the islands again and again. Good job guys.
Sage Joske, fish fry regular , old mal , fish and Alaia slider on wood and and why it is good.
Chris Garrett, not just a wild man with an axe to grind but a talented shaper to boot.
The Curve ,a great night of art, music and surf culture
Christian Chapman with one of his outstanding pieces
A full moon , a few beers and time to catch up with everyone at "The Curve" Dan Mac Donalds surf shop at Currumbin. www.dmshapes.com. Live music by Mick Wheeler, Christopher Ernest and Kym Campbell. Author Tim Baker presented a reading from some of his books. A great night and something we need to do more often.Good to see Rusty Miller come up from Byron and other shapers like Chris Garrett and Dale Chapman there.
Local artist and surfer Nic Chalmers with Dan.
Richard Harvey , great shaper , surfer and artist had a nice series of his latest work
Almost local Frenchman , Paul Lefevre next to a couple of pieces he hand painted on a some of Dan's shapes.
More of Paul's detailed work
Paul did this board with Dan for the fish fry
These 3 are by Christian Chapman who has a great eye and deft touch with the airbrush
Adrian Turner had some interesting pieces on show.
The Alternative Board - Japanese movie on Fishes and fish riding
Some well known fish shapers and surfers showing what a fish can do.
Irish Fish Fry
Great to see the Fish Fry is kicking on all over the world. Keep it simple keep it pure.
The Alley this morning
A great day at The Alley, offshore winds coming down the valley - got to love this time of year.
Shot by Lincoln as he cruised the coast this morning.
Great new movie The Present is about to tour Australia
Just click on the title above to link to the site for all the details...
This is a great new Thomas Campbell movie that is sure to inspire you.
Wooden Surfboards of any kind...
As you know there were many great wooden fishes at this years fish fry and also at the AB3 in Oceanside. Wooden boards are becoming popular and there are some great builders of them out there. Danny Hess , Tom Wegener and plenty of good old boys as well. So I have decided to have a Wooden Surfboard Day , just like the Fish Fry. Non competitive , non commercial, old new , modern , vintage , any size any shape , just wooden. So if you have made one , own one or would like to try one then this is what it is all about. Come along and check it out.I have also filled the wooden board building class that Paul Jensen will be running at the Currumbin Eco Village. 10 guys will be building hollow wooden surfboards for the week leading up to the Sunday 9th August get together in the park at Currumbin Alley. Guys flights all over the world are cheap at the moment and its a great time of year with settled conditions and cool offshores at the Alley in winter. Think about it and if you want to see more check out my
blog: www.woodensurfboards.blogspot.com
More fish
Nice hollow wooden board pic sent to me by Paul Jensen on his travels.
Good friends Pepa and Kale were down in Costa Rica for a surf trip recently and fish were the board of choice. 
Jesse Watson who works at Classic Malibu surfboards in Noosa just finished making a nice little fish for himself. Jesse will be joining us for the wooden board building classes in August.
He will be a man of many talents.
A swell old time at the Alley lately...
The Alley held some pretty nice waves over the last 4 weeks as the Gold Coast just kept getting swell after swell thrown at it. Paddle in gave way to tow in when it got bigger as there was little chance of making it out through the sweep. It has finally died down and left the banks pretty stuffed as so much sand has moved .
Wooden board building class on the Gold Coast
Paul Jensen from Washington will be conducting the classes at The Currumbin Eco Village Monday August the 3rd to Friday 7th 2009.
Paul has held classes in a number of countries and now is your chance to learn these skills.
The date will be Monday 3rd of August through to Friday 7th of August for the classes, Saturday will be a day to surf and Sunday 9th August will be the Wooden Surf Board gathering in the park at Currumbin Alley. With the kind offer from Chris Walton from The Currumbin Eco Village we can have the use of their workshop / recycling centre to build our boards.
A rough outline is as follows.
The five day Class will be at a cost $700 per person , with materials extra, typically about $45 per foot of board length.
The " How To " CD and a frame kit will be included in the cost of the class.
A deposit of $100 by the 1st of May will be required to secure a spot - It is not refundable after the 1st of May .
You choose one of 3 board designs to build - A 5ft 10" fish - A 7ft 3" mid length board or a 9ft longboard.
This would need to be known at the time of booking your spot as Paul will need to cut the frame and allocate materials for that board for you.
Paul has a minimum number of 6 people to make the trip viable for him and a maximum of 10 people so that you all get the attention you deserve to do the classes.
There are a minimum of tools required to build boards in Paul's classes and what you will need will be on hand. But if you were to do the class a dozen spring clamps each would be of great assistance . If you plan to take the next step and embark on your own projects after the class you will need these at some point. Readily available at Bunnings everywhere.
At the end of the class you will have a board you have built yourself ready to take home to be glassed.
If you are interested in the classes could you please send me your contact details including phone number so that we can make this happen as smoothly as possible, given that time is fast closing.
If you have any questions please contact me. I look forward to sharing this great experience with you.
grantnewby@bigpond.com
DVS Mini Simmons
Dick Van Straalen has just made a great little Mini Simmons. Stringerless styrene , epoxy and carbon fins. The bottom is a very mild version of his now very popular Hydro Hull. Hull entry to reverse V and chines though the back half. It looks like a flyer. And as Dick said the hull is really suited to the dynamics of styrene. Up on top and fly . Rasta is going to have fun on this little puppy.
These look like a collection of Eli Mirandon twin pins
The Deep swallow tailed finless fish ?
Rasta Pavel by the looks of things. Rich is a cool dude.
The funky footballer - some interesting fin set up.
This is an Ambrose Sputnik.
The AB3 / Fish Fry Oceanside Beach California.
Last Sunday was the Oceanside Beach AB3 / Fish Fry. A mate of mine Kale Gray sent these pics to share. This is not just a Fish Fry , but a mix of boards with anything but 3 fins.
Plenty of good looking quads in various sizes
They hold their event on the beach just down from the jetty next to the harbour.
Great looking wooden board.
This looks like a deckless Grain kit in the making and really nice wooden speed dialer.
Fish Fry Japan 2009
If you are thinking of going to the Fish Fry in Japan in June here are some details :
Fishfry 2009 Japan -by Blue Magazine.-
“Fishfry started among the shapers and some maniac surfers in California years ago, its rumor spread around the alternative boarder lovers in the world. Fishfry was held in Australia and England the year before and in New York City , Florida and Portugal , and Japan last year. Fishfry is the uncommercial event where the shapers and lovers who have rare chance meeting, gather, try bording and deepen friendship each other. The 2 nd Fishfry will be held with continuous excitement from the last meeting.”
DATE Jun 6 th Saturday 8am~Sunset *no rain check
PLACE Shizunami beach in Shizuoka
PRESENTED BY Neko publishing limited, Blue. magazine
NAME Fish Fry Japan 2009 Presented by Blue. Magazine
THEME Free Trial of Fish board, communication with users and shapers
CHARGE Free presentation, Free entry
CONDITION
Only surfboard brand following Fish Fry gist, should be Fish or Alternativeboards. Mold board permitted. Fin board are welcomed but must be followed by Fish Fry gist.
REGISTRATION: All shapers, brands and board builders to be entered from 8 to 9am at main booth.
REGULATION Bring your own tents, teepee, tables, and chairs. The numbers of tents or place will be within the bounds of common sense. No commercial actgivities permitted at the booth. No regulation of the board numbers and display. In case of excess display of one brand, follow the host advice.
TRIAL BOARD Should be ready for the users. Registration and regulation should be responsible for each brand. Any accident, trouble should be responsible for the brand and users, not be taken care of by the host.
USERS Some be expected to bring their own. Active communication desired.
PROMOTION No commercial event, No sales permitted at the booths. Free catalogue, stickers, and sample permitted.
CONTACT blue@neko.co.jp
The many faces of the Alley
Yesterday at 6am - a long paddle in the sweep is rewarded.
Cyclone Hamish a couple of weeks ago
1988 - classic Alley by Marty Tullimans
1988 - classic Alley by Marty TullimansRasta at Sunset on finless Alaia.
Check this out, is this not the ultimate in extreme sports ? Dave Rastavich taking the drop at Sunset on his Alaia. I don't think any ancient Hawaiians would mind their early adventures being the inspiration for this little piece of history.
John's new cherry
John Cherry , master craftsman just sent me these shots of his new craft. John is the guy who built the 10ft Bob Simmons replica balsa board. From this experience he has taken the elements of the simmons to create his new ride. That original Simmons replica has spurned a whole wave of activity with all sorts of mini simmons.
The Sun has set on another Alley Fish Fry
Yes another great day at the beach with a bunch a talented , innovative and passionate shapers , board builders and craftsmen. A good vibe and some nice waves. To all that came , a big thanks go to you. A number of shapers made boards just for the day and that is a real compliment to the day. The shapers that were there on the day are the thinkers and innovators in the industry that will be the survivors of the tough times. Lots of them are hand shapers and make a whole range of boards , and have been doing it for along time. This has proven to be a great forum for them to get together and show case their skills and ideas. I don't know of a better way of meeting such a great bunch of guys with this much talent in this non competitive and non commercial environment.
If you have pics to share send them to post on the blog. If you think we should do it again or have any ideas to put forward email me.
Remember lets keep it simple and it is for Fish Boards only and not a trade show ( Brands or logos) but a show of skill and innovation that is thriving and will continue to .
Thanks guys , it would be good to see you in the park again next year.
Great photo by Lincoln Williams of the Alley looking North to Surfers Paradise.
Fish Fish and more fish.
Local back yard shaper Sam Yoon loves his fishes short or long and surfs everything with his own style.
Wayne Davenport all the way from Wales with some nice boards he shaped. He said he could get used to this warmer water.
Very fishy Chris Garrett flex tail .
Local wood craftsman , David Franks had some great looking boards. These are Western Red and Queensland Cedar over styrene. Very nice.
Someone admiring Dam Mac Donalds chambered Balsa fish. There were some great wooden boards on show.
These pics are taken by Chris and Ilona O'Hearn. chrisoh56@optusnet.com.au
Click here for more Fish Fry pics
Yes just click on the link above to view a great selection of shots from Micro
Fishy fellows
A fair line up of talented buggers - Left to right - Tom Wegener , Billy Tolhurst, PT Peter Townend , Simon Anderson ( behind ) , Jim Banks , Dick Van Straalen , Darryl Von Weirdo and David Franks
Paul Joske and I admiring one of his great shapes.
80 year old timber board builder and surfer Barry Regan from Balina with Kiwi Roger Hall .
Tom Wegener showing the Sea Cell boys from Byron the finer points of whittling.
Matt Waite and Mike Cunningham from New Zealand kicking back.Fish Bits
PT's Dick Van Straalen Pink Quad
Now this is a Bat Tail - A DHD one at that.
Bill a local in the line up at The Alley 80 this year and still on a 5ft 6" fish. There is hope for all of us. Great to see surfing keeps you young at heart.
Me , Tadashi from Blue mag and Daniel Thomson from Lennox Heads, just enjoying the day.
Sergio Gomez from France had some pretty special boards. This one had quotes and stories about fishes that he printed on silk , even the fins. Very nice job. Great to see guys coming from all over with boards made especially for the Fry .
Fish Allsorts and sizes
Paolo Bianchinotti came up from Sydney for the day with a very different board.It has all sorts of things going on.
Sean Wilde up from Sydney as well with some nice Simmons and fish.
Chris Garrett with the glove box fish / handbag fish , great for those windy off shore days when you have a long walk back up the beach into a stiff breeze. Tuck it in you back pocket.
Jamie with one of Daves bigger Simmons.A Sea of colourful quads
Dain and the boys from Sea Cell in Byron sure know how to splash that colour around.
Ronnie Goddard Bat Tail quad.
Ronnie Goddard shapes and others
Ronnie Goddard from Coffs Harbour has this sweet little stringerless quad. Clean simple design and as light as a feather.
Not sure where this one came from or fitted in ?
More fish and things
PT and Simon Anderson checking PT's Dick Van quad
Daniel Thomson from Lennox and Tadashi from Japanese surf magazine Blue .
Diverse , Simmons inspired boards and others
Murray Bourton from Base with modern quad fishes
The DHD Bat Tail Quad ?
More wood
Jason Oliver from Brisbane with some beautiful hollow wooden boards built from recycled timbers. Just unbelievable work and craftsmanship in some high performance board shapes.
David Franks from the Gold Coast and Jason Oliver catching up. David is a master wood worker as well and had some great boards with cedar vacuum bagged over styrene.
Roger Hall from NZ with his multi stringered sea creature and a beautiful chambered wooden speed dialer. Rich Pavel thought he did a pretty good job considering Roger had never seen one in the flesh before. Agave , Cedar , Paulownia , Balsa and Canadian Red Wood .The detail and finish was flawless.
Chris Garrett recycled wood fish.
Jason Oliver book matched recycled wood with Camphor Laurel feature. Nice work.
Wooden fishes everywhere
Local fish rider , Marlie liked the look of Chris Garrett's fishy Alaia
Riley balsa over styrene fish.
Steve and Karen the Grain agents in Australia were there to show how from this kit you can build your own hollow wooden board.
The Happy Hemp man was there with hemp foam and hemp clothed boards. Shakablanks
Daniel Thomson with his his slick looking speed machines
Frenchman Paul Lefevre with the art he did on one of Dan Mac Donald's boards.The boys burnt the midnight oil on this one to have it ready for the day. Thanks guys well worth it.
Shane Waterfall came all the way up from Victoria to be part of the day and showcase some nice work. 
Sam from Riley Balsa boards in Sydney with some beautifully crafted balsa over styrene boards.
Tyler , John and Morgan drop in for the fry
It was great to see Tyler Warren , John Smart and Morgan Maassen turn up for the Fish Fry . They are over here filming Tyler surfing various boards and spent the whole day chasing waves. They had with them a couple of Mandala Quads and Josh Hall fishes as well. Tyler also spent a fair bit of time on a hollow Alaia Tom Wegener has been working on.
Another great Gold Coast day in the park
It was a hot old Queensland day at the beach and after 3 or 4 surfs and talking all day it took its toll of some of us. Tom shaper of the year was in need of some recharge time.
Jim Banks , Ferral Dave and Glynn checking out the day.
Pre Fish Fry night at Sean Scotts
A big thanks to Sean Scott for have the Pre Fry evening with live music, finger food and cold beers down at his Coolangatta gallery. It's great how people have pitched in to make the Fish Fry what it is.
PT , Dick Van and Paul McNeil enjoying the evening
Rich Pavel flew in Saturday morning from San Diego and Roger Hall flew in from New Zealand for the weekend. Two great shapers and great craftsmen.
Always good to catch up with Rich and I very much appreciate the effort and support he has given me .
It's Fish Fry Day
Looks like we are going to have to break out the Fish Flops in the next few days...
Well it's early in the morning and all is still. Everyone is still fast asleep .We had a great night last night down at Coolangatta at Sean Scott's gallery. Nice live music and a few Coronas to wash down the sushi. Swell has picked up as we have Category 5 Tropical Cyclone Hamish slowly coming down the coast. This morning it is sitting over top of the Whitsunday Islands with some strong winds of 295 Kilometres per hour near the centre. That's a fair breeze. It's only moving slowly at the moment but in a straight line down the coast. So the next few days are going to be interesting. The Quiksilver Pro needs some swell as its been small. But I don't think they plan on finishing the comp with tow in waves at Kirra. Be interesting though. But that will only happen if things speed up and head our way . Probably looks best for the Noosa Festival of Surfing which starts next Sunday 15th.
Well I had better get these Kiwi boyz up to help me load the truck. Check back and I will post some pics of todays goings on.
David Franks built this one for the Fry
David Franks is a local Gold Coaster who works in the movie industry , but uses his ample skills to build some pretty nice wooden boards. This is one of two he built for the fish fry.
Nice to see guys putting in the extra effort. Thanks David.
Ian Zamora also send his best .
Ian came to the Fish Fry for the first time last year and brought with him what I believe to be the first Mini Simmons to Australia. He then left it with Evan down at Byron. He is a great shaper and very talented glasser as well. He is sorry not to be able to make it down again but things are tight in the States and we all understand what that is like. Thanks to Jim from Lok Box for bringing Ian down last year and thanks to you both for your support.
Best of luck from our mates in the States.
Sean and his mate Mike Hynson checking the finer points of one of Mikes quads.
Just got an email from Sean Mattison from San Diego to say hi and wish us all the best with this weekends Fish Fry. Sean and Scott Bass are the two guys that got me started with the whole Fish Fry thing after checking out their 4th one at Oceanside Beach 3 years ago. As you can see Sean is a hell of a surfer and a fish nut to boot.These are some shots by Michael Delanzo of Sean cutting loose on one of Mike Hynson's Black Knight Quads. A big thanks must go to Sean and Scott for their support with holding the Fish Fry concept down here on the Gold Coast. They have both been down here in the past which was great and have helped spread the word back home. Scott has taken things more than one step further with organising the Sacred Craft event . A great concept and another way of showcasing the craft of board shaping and building. www.surfboardshow.com May 16 & 17 2009 Ventura County Fairgrounds.
Something different ?
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Here are a few different boards from Orange County California. Album Surfboards.
Ronnie Goddard from Coffs Harbour
Ronnie Goddard from Coffs Harbour sent me this pic of one of the boards he is bringing to the Fish Fry. He has been shaping since 1971 and now mostly shapes fishes and longboards. But fishes are his passion. He is a one man band who hand shapes and glasses every board .
One week to go...
Well we are one week away from Fish Fry 3 and there seems to be a fair bit of interest in this years event , which is great given that the surf industry is having a tough time of it. And it shows that the guys that are in for the long haul and still have the passion are prepared to tough it out and still inspired to turn up with examples of their skills and craft. Such guys as Paolo Bianchinotti from Sydney who sent me these shots of an interesting little 5ft 7" reverse rocker hyperbolic fish he is bringing. Looking forward to seeing it in the flesh. I know of a number of guys that are making something special for the Fish Fry. I would like to thank them for their support as this what the Fish Fry is all about. The guys that shape these great little and and some not so little craft. There will also be a number of wooden fishes coming on the day , and this is no surprise as there seems to be alot of interest in wooden boards.
All glossed and polished for the trip across the ditch
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Roger Hall from Surfline Surfboards in New Zealand has been a great supporter of the fish fry and here is a board he has made especially for this years get together. He sees it as a great opportunity to experiment and pull together some of his ideas and thoughts into one board rather than just small progressive tweeks to his regular line up. And hopefully this is what the fish fry is about. A source of inspiration for experimentation to try new things or combinations of old ideas and see where they lead. With 9 stingers and some complex curves it also showcases Roger's talent and craftsmanship as a handshaper. Great to see . So come along to the fish fry with an open mind and share the talent on display and talk to the talented buggers who will be there.
Meet the shapers the night before the Fish Fry.
Saturday night before the Fish Fry come on down to Coolangatta to Sean Scott's Slide Cafe and have a few quite beers and meet some of the shapers. Local musician Kym Campbell will be playing live. Also check out Sean's great photography of all things to do with the surf and the sea. Make yourself known and I look forward to catching up before the Fry.
Rogers board for the Fry is is taking shape
9 stringers , flyers , swallow tail and an array of concaves but fins ? There is enough going on on the underside maybe there won't be fins.
What the fish fry is all about...
Evolution and creativity lead to interesting concepts that need to be shared. That is what the Fish Fry is about. These two boards come from the same blood lines some 40 years apart . It's great to see people pushing the boundries and trying new things with a twist. 
Local Gold Coast board collector Carl Tanner shared one of his interesting boards with us last year. A Bear Mirandon Twin Pin. A very interesting board to say the least. I sent the pic off to find out a little more about it and here is the reply ...
My name is Croyde Mirandon and I am one of Nicholas' sons. This is a Surfboards La Jolla twinpin from my father and his brother Barry's company. That was shaped anytime between 65'-69' I suppose. My father created the twinpin / twinfin concept and Bear and him refined it together along with the bottom curve and nose template...long story. I am currently working on a book on them I have to put the real story out there...it is a good one! There was an article on them a couple of issues back in the surfers journal that shows some other boards and tells a little bit of the story and their is a new web site that is in the works but you can check it out www.surfboardslajolla.com. I am not sure when it will be done...
I can tell you that my father and Bear have been busy shaping these days and are doing Balsa twinpins, a bit of Redwood and doing some replica and more modern twinpin boards as well. I have been surfing these and loving it...
My father, my brother Eli and I have also been working on a new board concept for some years that is based on a design that my uncle did in the 70's. The porpoise board. The new boards are under our line called Mirandon Surfboards and can be seen on www.mirandonsurfboards.com. The boards are like nothing else and perform amazingly...it is a feeling in surfing for me. Eli has a video teaser on the site so that you can see an couple of turns on one if the boards. Also Eli is shaping the Mirandon fish his design for a fish and they are going great as well...
Would you happen to have a contact for the gentlemen that owns the surfboard in the photos? i would like to maybe interview him for the book...thanks for any info...
have a look at those sites and thanks you for the e-mail!
regards
Croyde
also my father can be reached at 858 204 7005 and Eli can be reached at 858 945-8733
I can tell you that my father and Bear have been busy shaping these days and are doing Balsa twinpins, a bit of Redwood and doing some replica and more modern twinpin boards as well. I have been surfing these and loving it...
My father, my brother Eli and I have also been working on a new board concept for some years that is based on a design that my uncle did in the 70's. The porpoise board. The new boards are under our line called Mirandon Surfboards and can be seen on www.mirandonsurfboards.com. The boards are like nothing else and perform amazingly...it is a feeling in surfing for me. Eli has a video teaser on the site so that you can see an couple of turns on one if the boards. Also Eli is shaping the Mirandon fish his design for a fish and they are going great as well...
Would you happen to have a contact for the gentlemen that owns the surfboard in the photos? i would like to maybe interview him for the book...thanks for any info...
have a look at those sites and thanks you for the e-mail!
regards
Croyde
also my father can be reached at 858 204 7005 and Eli can be reached at 858 945-8733
When you look at the Mirandon pin twin and the Bob Simmons hull shaped way back , you can be inspired to do many things. So bring your new ideas and if you have some classics like Carl share them as well. That's what the Fish Fry is all about . Fishes.
More of Sams boards
A great collection of ideas and shapes coming to fruition in the garden shed literally. Good on you Sam for keeping the spirit of the fish alive and kicking. Aloha mate.
Sam Yoon cranking out the fishes for his friends
Sam Yoon is a local Gold Coaster with a love of fishes and builds some beautiful boards in the shed out in the back yard at Tugan. Flying Soul is his label and he loves a long speedy fish. Peter Mo has done some great resin work with him to finish them off.
Son of Sea Creature a test for the sander
Roger is at the glassing stage with the board he is building for the Fish Fry. Sure is going to test the boys out with all these complex shapes. Mate she is looking good and can't wait to see the final result.
5ft 6" x 22" x 2 1/2" FAQ Fat Arse Quad
Here is a board I am building for Brad in Sydney and hope to have at the Fish Fry . Thanks to Dan for letting me use his shaping bay. Single into double and concave deck.
Hollow Balsa mini Simmons by Nathan Grey
Nathan has just finished and road tested this little gem - " 5-7" 22.5" 2.5" hollow balsa simfish, with a S deck and underneath hull up front blending to single concave. I have surfed it a few times and the thing goes like the clappers."
Hollow Cedar fish with solid Balsa rails by Nathan Grey
Nathan Grey is a great wooden board builder out of Sydney and has forwarded these pics of this 5-9" 20.5" 2.5" hollow cedar fish with solid balsa rails. " It has got a bit of V through the nose and then flat blending into a single concave that runs through the keels. I have not surfed this one since it is for a young guy in Perth, I have been very tempted. " Mate I would think the guy in Perth will be mighty please with his board.
Plenty on fresh fillets waiting to be battered.
Another Rocket fish crafted by Dick's talented hands.
It just goes to show if you make what people want you will always be busy.
Now here is a guy who is going the extra mile to showcase his talents and innovation for this years Fish Fry.
Now this is some serious stringer work.
All profiled and ready for hand shaping.
The start of 9 sunburst stringers being glued up.
Roger making the most of nice little local beach break at " The Race Track" down the road from his factory. A couple of rides to see where he can draw some inspiration for his new take on "The Son Of Sea Creature" Looking forward to the finished board. The original had huge concaves and a long raking single fin.
A big thankyou to Mike / Micro from Fish N Log for all the great pics.
Roger Hall out getting some inspiration for a new board to showcase his talents
Roger on his Sea Creature Fish at this local break The Racecource Tuesday morning before a day in the shaping bay. Roger brought this one over to last years Fry. Deep concaves and long fin.
Thanks to Micro for the pics
Sergio has been hard at work getting his board ready for the Fish Fry.
Sergio Gomez is a guest glasser and shaper at Surfline Surfboards in New Zealand and has been trying to find time in between their busy work load to get a board together. A Bonzer Bat Tail with some nice resin work. mate look forward to meeting you at the Fry.
Thanks to Micro for the pics
Is this taking the Mini Simmons too far ?
The Hydrofoil Paipo Board by Terry Hendricks certainly is a radical take on things.
Do you not think that this might be where it all started ?
Bob Simmons , clearly a man way ahead of his time and the pack. An inspiration to many things we see today.
Josh Hall has certainly put glide into this fish...
Josh is a great young Californian shaper who has been mentored by Skip Frye. Not hard to tell.
Ian Zamora forever the innovator
Last year Ian Zamora from California came down for the Fish Fry with Jim from Lok Box and DJ Kane another great young shaper. Ian had a couple of surfs with Daniel Thompson from Lennox while down here after meeting up at the Fry. Daniel's "Jet Tail" inspired Ian to shape this quad.
Last year Ian came with what must have been the first Mini Simmons board to Australia , a 5ft 6" version inspired by Bob Simmons balsa hulls. Here is a 9ft version he has just shaped. I know the boys at Sea Cell and Ferral Dave have since shaped a few Mini's and more recently Sean Wilde down in Sydney also. This is what the Fish Fry is all about. Inspiration and innovation.
Be prepared for more this year.
8ft nose rider / quad fish...by Ferral Dave
Nice job Dave, I think we are going to see more of this sort of concept in the future. They work seperately and together. When you nose ride you need some water over the tail to hold you in and a big concave nose helps. And when you want to jack it around , the nose is out of the water on a board this size and the fins do the work like a modern quad fish should. Seems simple enough to me Dave. Good one Mate.
Merry Christmas to all you fish heads. Thanks for your support 12,000 visits to the blog this past 12 months from all corners of the world.
Project "MORE the merrier"
Mark Pridmore has designed and shaped a surfboard that is being passed from surfer to surfer along the coast of Australia ( it has also been to some Pacific Island that will remain nameless and may be heading to Vietnam soon...) He has accumulated details of about 30 - 40 surfers who want to be test pilots from all around Australia . It was quite a challenge to create a board to suit everybody as I had weights that vary from 65 - nearly 100 kg's but that was to be part of the fun. It has been a great experience for all involved and a great chance for surfers to try out a board that they would not normally consider riding .Each test pilot has the board for a few days or a week maximum and its up to him or her to arrange delivery to the next surfer without damage, there will be a board cover supplied too.If any damage occurs then the test pilot who had it at the time is responsible for getting it repaired asap and then passing it on to its next surfer... Test pilots have been arranged by Mark and on RealSurf ( surfing forum-site )...The board began its journey approximately mid June 2008 on the Sunshine Coast and then headed South from there. Some will like and some will dislike the board and thats to be expected. It has been very interesting to follow its journey and listen to all the comments and stories along the journey. The feedback from a wide range of surfers has been invalueable for Mark as a shaper too.There is a travel diary that surfers can leave info and comments in and it should be very interesting reading when this journey finishes, and when that will be, not sure but maybe 12 months from now ????? But he very keen on getting the AquaBat back to take to the Fish-Fry in March on the Goldy.Photos and regular updates are posted on his web-site @ www.moresurfboards.com and also on RealSurf. "So please keep checking and enjoy the experience with us, you might even see it around the waves near you , if you do feel free to have a few waves on it, after all it is called 'MORE the merrier' , cheers." Mark Pridmore
Jeff Bickerstaff's new fish for next years Alley Fish Fry...
Local Auckland builder Jeff Bickerstaff who came over for this year's Fish Fry has just sent me these shots of his second hand-shaped board. A 6ft 7" x 21 3/4" wide Quad. It looks like he has done a great job for his second effort and I hope he gets some time over Christmas to catch a few waves. Jeff is planning on bringing his wife over next year to enjoy the Gold Coast and catch up again at the 2009 Fish Fry. This is what it's all about, getting together , seeing what others are doing and taking a board or two out for a surf then going home inspired to put your thoughts into action and building a board for yourself that expresses where you want to be. There is only one better feeling than getting a new board and that is shaping one yourself. Jeff you know that feeling. Good on you mate and thanks for your support. See you in the park Sunday 8th March 2009.
The Curve surf and art shop now open
Friday the 22rd of August saw the opening of a new surf/art concept store located in Currumbin on the Gold Coast. Owners Daniel MacDonald & Rebekah Clarke hosted the event with an eye pleasing array of colour and art including canvas creations from the likes of Richard Harvey, Sean Scott, Nicholas Chalmers and Christian Chapman among many more. Daniels two labels, Daniel MacDonald Surfboards (Classic) and DMS (Performance) cover a broad range of surfboards including single fins, twin fins, longboards, hybrids and performance boards. Psychodelic resin tint and pigment designs and classic volane triple stringers were obvious talking points on the night. The wine flowed freely and the event bought many industry types together. This pair have created a haven for artists to display their pieces, with the likes of aboriginal registered artist Colin Wightman contributing his artistic flair over resin tint twin fin surfboards. Also stocking Pene Fins, a diverse range of single fins, longboard fins and twin fins as well as handmade patchwork board socks, poska pens and surf accessories. If you are looking for something unique, be sure to make your way down to The Curve….surf stuff at 1/35 Currumbin Creek Rd, Currumbin, Queensland.
Or you can find them online !
www.thecurvesurfstuff.blogspot.com www.dmshapes.com www.penefins.com
Valla Surfboards great new promo
Just click on link above to check out the great little promo on Valla Surfboards range of fish that Sage has been working on.
I Love Fish - Blue Magazine
Blue magazine have put together a great article on fish boards and shapers from all over. Just wish I could read Japanese. May have to take it down to the Sushi Train and get someone to read it to me. Check it out.
Fish Fry Japan pics
Click on Fish Fry Japan to link to pictures of the day. Thanks to Naminori Oyaji.
Movie clips from Fry 2008- DVD available.
These are some sample clips of the day.If you would like to get hold of a DVD covering the Fish Fry 2008 you can contact Chris O'Hearn at chrisoh56@optusnet.com.au - (07) 5575 9406
Ian Zamora with his Simmons inspired fish
Jason Oliver from Brisbane blew a few people away with these two. The top board is made from recycled Cedar window frames and the other is made from a pine packing crate / pallet.
Nail holes and all with an acrylic wash over the top.
Big Kiwi Jeff the builder running his eye over the details.
Mick Mackie always the innovator with flex tails and side cut fishes. Likes his snow boarding and it shows in his fishes.
More Pics from 08
Dan Mc Donald - DMS with some local culture
Dan also had other artistic flair on show.
Dans big into board graphics
Dave from Diverse had a great variety on show.
Glen Cat Collins from 1770 had a few people scratching their heads. Jet bottoms , different fins and shapes.
fish Fry 08
Roger Hall from New Zealand made this board for himself 30 years ago. Last year a guy came in with it to have some dings repaired. Roger just had to have it back.
Evan from Byron had some nice Takayama boards.
The old truck was pretty loaded .
The girls had fun selling T shirts
Fishy Fellow
Shane had to try a board or two. There were plenty of boards to demo , just ask a shaper.
Nice Pene fins on a carbon board
Must be a mermaid ?
Boards were coming and going from the Valla tent all day.
Ian Zamoras , Simmons inspired fish . 5ft 6" x 21" x 2 1/2" flies in the small stuff by all accounts.
People
Plenty of people and plenty to check out.
Mark Pridmore from Yamba with a bit of show and tell.
Jeff from NZ is a builder of houses and boards and just had to run the stick over a few boards.
More Fish
Always plenty to talk about with Steve Ford and Jimmy from Lok Box
Jimmy with Dain Thomas checking out Ian Zamoras Simmons inspired fish.
Carl Tanner and the Mex always interested in anything that relates to surfing.
Carl brought along the only Bear Mirandon twin pin in Australia. A classic from 1966. Great story on these in the latest issue of The Surfers Journal Volume 17 # 1. Check it out.
Tom Wegener with his take on the modern and ancient fish ?
Fry 08
Pretty fins by DT
Brendan Milch getting to grips with Dick Van Aviso.
Plenty to check out
Steve Ford with some nice resin work out of his California factory.
The coffee van was kept pretty busy all day.
Fish Fry 2008 - Sunday 2nd March 2008
Shane Waterfall / Waters Retro Victoria had some nice boards for all to share.
Steve Ford from Encinitas had this board shaped from colour tinted foam.
Local Japanese shaper Shoji Muto with this carbon bat tail.
Shoji also had this full carbon fish .
Dain Thomas from Byron and the boys from Sea Cel
Sage Joske from Valla has taken the fish to a whole new level here . The finless fish .
Great to see a young guy thinking outside the box.
The Valla boys had a fair quiver on hand.
A great array of colour and shapes
Jamie Bott from UK mag Drift with Tommy hanging out with Neil from Classic Malibu
Dave showing his arty side
Some nice wood work by Dave
Dem fish bones by Feral Dave
Not long to go
PT is in town to pick up a new fish for the Fry from Dick Van Straalen.
A sample of Glenn da Cat Collins take on the fish that will be on show.
Another sample of Glenns craft.
Da Cat will be loading up the stead and heading down from 1770
Tom Wegener is making some sweet little fish for the Fry
Update on this year's Fish Fry...
This year's Fish Fry is going to be even bigger than last year with a lot of interest and enquiry from shapers and board builders from all over Australia. This blog has also attracted international interest from around the globe.
A large cross section of Australian shapers from Victoria, NSW and Queensland will be attending. Roger Hall from New Zealand is making a return visit along with a number of other kiwi enthusiasts. Jim Robertson from Lok Box is attending again and bringing with him Ian Zamora and DJ Kane from San Diego. Californian Chris Christenson, who was also here last year with some great little craft is coming out again and we welcome Steve Ford and Darren Ledingham from Southern California, who are heading this way after stopping off in Japan for the surf industry show. We have photographer Jamie Bott from the UK surf magazine Drift coming as well as UK film maker Christiaan Bailey shooting video and stills for various broadcasters (Channel 4 , Xtreme, etc.), magazines and his own projects. Junko and Takashi Tomita who covered last years event for Glide and Surf N Life magazines are making the trip again along with a Japanese entourage. These are just some of the confirmed parties at this stage.
Obviously the fish has moved way ahead of some "retro"revival of a few years ago and made everyone involved take a good look at the basic principles of not only this unique shape but why we surf. The fish shape has now evolved into its many forms which will be on show at the Alley on the 2nd of March.
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