We love what we do
For us, woodworking isn’t just a job - it’s a way of life, our passion and purpose. Being able to combine this with our love for surfing has been a fulfilling and rewarding experience. It’s hard not to be impressed and fascinated by the evolution of the surfboard, from solid timber planks used in Polynesia and Hawaii to the first hollow wooden surfboard craft by Tom Blake in the 30's.
Over the years we have developed our own technique and structure of the Bywater surfboard, aiming for the highest quality of craftsmanship possible. Our surfboards feature an internal rib structure (made from plywood) and paulownia rails, focusing on strength and ensuring lightweight features.
We responsibly source our paulownia from Australian-grown plantations and are mindful in reducing waste throughout the process of our board making. A wooden surfboard is designed and made to last, for a lifetime of enjoyment, while a standard foam board has a typical lifespan of 5 years (depending on quality and usage). A wooden surfboard is not immune to damage, but is more likely to be repaired and salvaged than ending up in landfill, where foam boards can take a lifetime to break down.
The satisfaction of turning timber into a fully rideable surfboard that looks as good in the ocean as it does sitting at home, is what we live for. We are always blown away by the beauty of each board, particularly how the timber grain offers its own unique personality.
Our love for what we do goes beyond the physical boards; but into the communities that are cultivated as a result, through the wonderful people who join us in workshops and other pioneers of the surfboard-making and woodworking industries. There are many wooden surfboard makers scattered across Australia and overseas, all with their own take on such a craft. We all share the passion for classic (and innovative) wooden surfboards and doing our bit to reduce our imprint on the world and the oceans we so greatly enjoy.
We’re here to advocate for the timeless art of woodworking and aim to pay homage to the roots of surfing. A true wooden surfboard consists of only that; wood and as little adhesives as possible. While some wooden surfboards can feature a foam core, there is no foam here. No foam, no worries!!
We can't think of anything better than marrying the worlds of surfing and woodcraft together, two vastly different activities and skill sets, but a powerful combination nonetheless, with outstanding results. It’s not just a board - it’s everything that goes into it!