Wakedition 08

CONTENTS

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DEPARTMENTS

04 08 32 62 76 82

Just Sayin’ WE Love Gallery Blink & You’ll Miss It WE The People Out

WAKEDITION IS: EDITOR: JAMES TYRRELL SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHER: BRETT HEMMINGS CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS: BRYAN SODERLIND CHRIS FLAXMAN ANDRE KREMMER DANIEL DEAK BARDOS CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: TIM WAKELING MARK MCNAMARA

CONTACT WAKEDITION: GENERAL INQUIRIES: james@wakedition.com.au ADVERTISING: advertise@wakedition.com.au EDITORIAL INQUIRIES: editor@wakedition.com.au

wakedition is a product of Optika Creative PTY LTD © 2013

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Rider: Trevor Bashir Pic. Bretthemmings.com

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Warm Winter ........................

It’s that time of year again, the board shorts are retired to the bottom of the clothes drawer and the wetsuit is rid from all cobwebs. Your commitment to entering the water reaches its toughest test as the comfort and warmth aboard the boat or inside the cable park pro shop entices your lazy muscles and joints. Despite the lack of enthusiasm and temptation of keeping warm, your urge to ride overcomes all reservations - you have at it.

The reason we wakeboard, wakeskate or wakesurf is for the feeling. Despite the freezing water, or the awkward wetsuit exit in the cold breeze, the feeling of being on board always prevails. The threat of forgetting this feeling becomes high during the cold months, and a sour session in icy conditions can be enough to make you throw in the towel completely. Why am I talking in such a negative tone you may ask? Let me explain.

I used to live and breathe skateboarding. Before I discovered wakeboarding, I’d skateboard every day. And when I wasn’t skateboarding I was watching skate videos or reading skate mags. We had a good crew of mates who skated well and we all loved it. Looking back they were some of the best days of our lives growing up.

At some point skateboarding began to take a back seat for many of our crew. Sessions that would normally involved six to eight guys started to dwindle and eventually there were only two of us at best. This is where I’m glad I discovered wakeboarding as for my group of mates, skateboarding was no longer a priority.

Wakeboarding came along with even more mates and slowly, after every winter the group would get smaller. It was like the cold of winter would let their interests wander and come summer time; the love for wakeboarding was lost and forgotten.

JUST SAYIN’’

To battle the loss of motivation and excitement that can result from a frosty winter, we here at Wakedition have purposely created a warm and fuzzy feeling mid-winter issue to battle all negative thoughts on hitting the water.

We get in touch with Brenton Priestley who is feeling more balanced as a professional wakeboarder than ever before. Cory Teunissen is soaking up that Orlando summer and killing it while he’s there. We take a sunset session at Cable Tide, the new cable system to open in the Illawarra region and get some juicy info on future plans. Oli Derome has become an honorary Aussie after just one visit down under and we offer you a tour around the best riding spots in our hometown of Sydney.

If your mates are feeling the cold and you can see their love for riding slipping away slowly, stick all eighty-four pages of this digi mag under their nose, it’s sure to radiate heat on even the coldest of winter mornings.

If you’re reading this from the Northern Hemisphere or within a tropical range of the equator, chances are the water is warm and the board shorts are your most worn item of clothing.

In this case, carry on and enjoy your summer. We won’t make you feel cold.

Promise - JT.

A grommet rides into the misty rain, mid-winter at the Tige, ProWake Grommie Nats at Somerset Dam, QLD. Grommets aren’t scared of the cold.

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ON THE COVER RIDER: Cory Teunissen PHOTO: Bryan Soderlind LOCATION: Orlando, Florida

The story goes, we approached Cory about working on a feature and cover.

We then approached A-grade photographer Bryan Soderlind to shoot the feature and cover. Post shoot, Bryan came back to us with a number of options to choose from and this stale fish back roll was the chosen winner. Bryan was stoked to work with Cory and Cory was stoked to work with Bryan. Sometimes it just works. Simple.

But in all seriousness, why wouldn’t we pick Cory for the cover. Young mister Teunissen has been working hard at his riding for years and just launched into his maiden season on the Junior Pro Tour.

Already with a few podiums under his belt, killer style and a good attitude to match, Cory is the kinda guy we want to learn more about.

To the new generation of riders coming through, a lot can be learned from Cory, not only his approach to riding but also the professionalism in the way he communicates with his sponsors and fellow industry people.

Expect to see a lot more from Cory, although he’s been working at this wakeboarding thing for some years now, he’s really only just getting started.

ON THE COVER

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WE LOVE GOODS, NEW GOODS, GOODS THAT MAKE WAKEBOARDING AND LIFE IN GENERAL MORE FUN. LOOK AT THE GOODS WE’VE FOUND THAT WILL BOOST THE LEVEL OF FUN IN YOUR LIFE!

HARDLINE - SUB HANDLE STR Hardline have released the new SUB handle for 2013-14 and we’re stoked on the edgy designs in this range. Wakeboarding isn’t supposed to be too serious so why not grab a handle that packs more meat than any other on the market.

Or if you’re more the vegetarian type and meat ain’t your style try the ‘Bud’ design. If you’re a fashion conscious kinda person, wrap your hands around the ‘Denim’ SUB handle.

Check the whole range of Hardline accessories as they’re launched. www.dupwake.com

SOLO SHOT Film yourself! That’s right, some days you’re killin’’ it! Straight killin’ it and there’s no one there to film you shred. Solo Shot is the latest in camera mount technology that allows you to film yourself ride. Whether you’re cutting laps at the wake park or working on your contest line behind the boat, the Solo Cam system will keep your camera framed on the action so when you land that 1080 you’ll have video proof. It’s like the ultimate selfie! We’re testing these units ourselves and will be giving one away through our website so visit regularly for a chance to win. www.soloshot.com

For your nearest stockist please contact Activ Concepts on 03 8587 1111 or email johnno@activconcepts.com

F I R M OR MELLOW

DUPwake.com

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_Youtube.com/DUPwake _Facebook/DUPwake

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100% Paulownia timber core, for the most responsive flex and superior durability.

JONTY GREEN

_Twitter/DUPwake

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GREG WOOD

ML FLIRT PFD3 VEST Attention all those flirty fair ladies of wake. The ML Flirt is the latest, most comfortable vest that will keep you afloat and comfortable while looking more stylish than ever. PFD 3 approved and featuring a longer, slimmer design, the Flirt will make any day on the water that little more enticing. Extra features include an ‘Instagram approved’ design for all those selfie lovin’’’’ flirts xoxo. www.masterlineaustralia.com.au

JETPILOT A-TRON WETSUIT The all-new Jetpilot A-Tron 2mm wetsuit has been unleashed. Specifically designed for wakeboarders, this extra layer of purpose built rubber will keep you warm through the deep end of winter while keeping you looking fresh. The A-Tron features the NEW Slant Zip Entry, 100% magic stitched, s-bend joints for maximum flexibility, Flex-lite ultra neoprene, integrated neck seal, Plyo-pads, O-Ring cuffs and so much more. www.jetpilot.com.au

O’BRIEN SKYLA Ladies who like to shred hard deserve a board that won’t hold them back. The O’brien Skyla is purpose built to roll easily onto edge, pop higher and ride with minimal drag. The Skyla rides fast and clean on the water, just ask Dallas Friday, if this board is good enough to keep up with her powerful riding style, then it must be good! www.obrienaustralia.com.au

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Angie Schriber, current WWA Cable Wakeboard Women’s World Champion.

WAKEBOARDING DENIED A RUN IN THE OLYMPICS WORDS: TIM WAKELING

PHOTO: DANIEL DEAK BARDOS

“Wakeboarding definitely should have a place in the Olympics. It’s a sport all the kids want to get involved in and it’s one of the fastest growing sports,” says Rob Iacconi, President of Wakeboard NSW. But it was not to be.

On May 29, Franco Carraro, Chairman of the Olympic Programme Commission, and Jacques Rogge, President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), announced that wakeboarding was not among the three new sports shortlisted to appear at the 2020 Olympic Games.

Baseball, softball, squash and wrestling are the finalists vying for a single spot alongside rugby sevens and golf which were selected in February. The announcement followed presentations from eight international sporting federations making their sports’ cases before the executive board of the IOC in St Petersburg.

The International Waterski and Wakeboard Federation’s (IWWF) presentation to the IOC emphasised a youth focus, gender equality and proven international expansion of the sport over recent years. The presentation also described the visual appeal that an Olympic wakeboarding event could provide for the audience, both at the event and via broadcast and social media.

Kuno Ritschard, President of the IWWF, expressed his disappointment in an email sent to affiliates when he said the executive board “selected the sports based on tradition and universality and not on youth involvement and attraction”.

He said the general view is that the IOC should change its rules and find new ways to bring new sports or new disciplines into the Games.

“I’m disappointed with the result, but not surprised,” says Steve Dipple, Director of Cable Wakeboarding Australia. He points out the IOC took a more youth-focused direction when it included snowboarding in the Winter Olympics yet is considering wrestling and squash which have a more mature audience.

“My understanding is that the IOC approached the IWWF with cable wakeboarding in mind and the IWWF jumped at the opportunity with some progressive and positive marketing. A place in the Olympics would bring wakeboarding into the mainstream.”

INDUSTRY

Rob Iacconi agrees. “It would mean more government support and funding. At the moment, volunteers and private enterprises run the sport and elite athletes have to go overseas to make a career out of it. A place in the Olympics would make the sport more sustainable and accessible. As happened with snowboarding, we’re seeing a lot of kids preferring wakeboarding rather than water skiing.”

However, not everyone in the wakeboarding community agrees. “I don’t think wakeboarding had a chance,” says Alex Wilson, President of the Sydney University Wakeboard and Waterski Club. “It’s great the bid made it as far as it did. The promotion and exposure it has provided for the sport is phenomenal, but I don’t think wakeboarding has a place in the Olympics next to sports like dressage.

“The Olympics should stay true to tradition. Wakeboarding has a place at competitions like the X-Games which is a more action orientated forum,” he says.

The executive board of the International Olympic Committee will make its decision on the final sport to be included on the 2020 programme in Buenos Aires in September.

While wakeboarding will not feature in the 2020 Olympic Games, the sport has certainly done very well to have been considered at such a high level, according to Alex Wilson. Its future is looking bright with wake parks popping up all over the world and a host of promising Australian and international riders in the Pro Tour and Junior Competitions.

“The promotion and exposure it has provided for the sport is phenomenal, but I don’t think wakeboarding has a place in the Olympics next to sports like dressage. “

PHOTO: JAMES TYRRELL

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BRENTON PRIESTLEY Brenton Priestley is one of a kind, there’s no doubt about it. In his words he has ‘learned the hard way’ while searching for the greatest heights in professional wakeboarding. From lost sponsorships to a diminishing motivation to ride, B.P has ridden the highs and almost faded in the lows.

During a spell in Sydney awaiting a delayed visa approval, We spent some quality time with B.P and discussed his current outlook as a pro rider. It seems weathering the storms has molded Brenton into a more mature rider who’s focus is on keeping balanced to ensure a successful and lasting career.

By balanced, I mean time allocation. Allowing time to ride but also stopping to communicate, observe and socialize. A balance in competing and freeriding, partying and resting. It’s a clever balancing act that B.P is beginning to master and for that, expect to see amazing things from everyone’s good mate, Brenton.

Words: James Tyrrell

“It was good to have some time off and clear my head, surf and not have a worry in the world really.”

PHOTO: BRETTHEMMINGS.COM

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I actually spent some time off. I got back from the US on the second of December to be exact, spent a week catching up with family and crew. Then my chick landed not long after, so I spent some time off the board with Mary and my family. We traveled around a bit and showed my girl a bit of Australia. I didn’t really do a lot of wakeboarding, I just needed some time off the board to be honest. I didn’t want to see a wakeboard or really hang out with wakeboarders for a while. I kinda started riding again around January during Boardstock, since then the summer has been pretty fun.

Did taking some time off riding help rejuvenate and gain some motivation to get back on the water?

I felt real rusty in the first month back riding, there were a few ups and downs and I was pretty fucking over wakeboarding just ‘cause I felt like such a kook. But I’m definitely feeling almost back to 100% now, I’m getting a bit of confidence back so I’ll be ready to ride hard when I’m back over seas. It was good to have some time off and clear my head, surf and not have a worry in the world really.

You spent some time in Cairns shooting with Andy Kolb for his new movie ‘The Debut’. Tell me about that.

We spent twelve days up there filming which was rad. Cairns is a sick place and it was my first time up there. It was cool to experience something new and ride at a different park, Clay was rad he let us build whatever the fuck we wanted. It was epic.

You made a second trip to Cairns to build some rails for the park up there. Did they approach you about that?

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Tell me a little about this past Australian summer.

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When we were up there filming with Andy, I spoke to Clay and said you guys need some new shit here, I suggested I could come build them and he was down. It actually wasn’t supposed to happen till December but with all this visa drama, I had another month here, so I ended up heading up there and getting it done while waiting for my visa to go through.

It was perfect I rode every day and we built five rails. We got a lot done and it’s something I actually like doing since I’m a builder by trade.

You then went on and kicked off the Follow team trip to Bonnie Doon. How was that?

Yeah Mitch (Langfield), Chris O, Trevor Bashir and myself drove from the Sunshine Coast to Bonnie Doon in Victoria to meet up with everyone else. The trip was pretty epic; we came back with some insane shots.

Now you’re stuck here waiting on a visa approval while everyone else is starting their Northern Hemisphere summer.

Yeah I’m kinda stuck here right now. I started this visa in November, I have an action sports lawyer who is helping me out and I guess it just took me a little time to get her the cash to start working on the approval. It has been a long road getting it done, getting paper work from a lot of different people. Everyone is busy these days and I appreciate everyone who helped me out in getting the paperwork I needed to submit for the visa. They came back to me asking for more evidence of who pays me, where I get paid and that I am actually pro. So I’m still here, it’s getting cold and I’m waiting on this damn visa.

Where are you aiming to be this year? Mainly in the U.S or Europe?

The way it was supposed to happen was to head to Orlando first, which may not happen now. So I’ve been invited to a couple of events in Europe this year so it’s likely I’ll head straight to Germany and travel around with the Aussie crew for about a month. I’ll be doing some more filming with Andy while I’m there in Germany. Along with some competing which is weird for me, I don’t compete a whole lot but the events I’m going to are events I believe in and I’m stoked that I’ve been invited.

So are you more behind these 2.0 style events? Is that the direction you want to see competitive wakeboarding to head?

I back creativity I guess, and doing something different. ‘Wake the Line’ is such a standout and sick event, there’s nothing else like it. The same as ‘Wake of Steel’ – it’s a huge floating barge with pools built in it. It looks ghetto. Standout events like that are going to push our sport and I want to be a part of that progression.

What about boat riding?

I started out as a boat rider and I still love riding boat, I’ll never ride the Pro Tour that’s something I don’t want to do. And most of those guys are probably better than me and some so far ahead of me I’ll probably never catch up and I know that. I’m not gonna go out and throw down a gymnastics line to beat them. I’ll be out freeriding, boosting out. In the park stuff I have more of a chance, park suits me a lot better.

Do you think the Euro’s have it pretty dialed in as far as organising and promoting events go?

I’ll be able to tell you more after this year. I went to Wake the Line last year and it was the best event I’ve been a part of. The same goes for the ‘Wake Open’ in the U.S that was really well done. I think other event organisers can learn a lot from those two events.

It’s nice to go to an event and be looked after and respected for being at the event. Having accommodation provided and being taken out to dinner at ‘Wake the Line’ was awesome. It definitely makes you want to ride harder and do well at that event. Sleeping on couches never puts you in a good mind-set for an event (laughs).

When you finally make it back to the States, who will you be living with?

I’ll be living with my chick actually. We’ve got an apartment down town, just a little one bedder. I’ve moved off a lake this year since I don’t have a boat so I spend a lot of time driving to the cable park and the Projects anyway. I’m going to be pretty central now, I’ll be about five minutes from Mitch’s (Langfield) house on Clear Lake and about ten from the cable (OWC) and probably about twenty from the Projects. There’s a good vibe in downtown Orlando so it will be good to catch up with industry people and socialise.

Am I sensing maybe a more mature BP these days? Has it got something to do with that beard maybe?

(Laughs) Each year you get older and I’d like to see myself at a higher level in this sport sooner rather than later. And if it means not partying as hard and being a dick head then that’s what I’ll do. I mean I still party and I always will have a good time, but I’ve just learned a lot over the years business wise.

I’ve learned the hard way; I’ve lost companies, I’ve gained companies. I’m beginning to learn how to deal with being a professional wakeboarder a lot better now. Yeah, I guess you could say I’m growing up.

How about the beard, does it demand a little respect?

It’s pretty fucking horrible if you ask me (laughs). Do you think it demands a little respect?

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“I’ve learned the hard way; I’ve lost companies, I’ve gained companies. I’m beginning to learn how to deal with being a professional wakeboarder a lot better now.”

PHOTO: JAMES TYRRELL

Cory Teunissen seems to have been around the wake industry in Australia for years now - but Did you know he IS ONLY fifteen?

With a bag of tricks large enough to leave his competitors shaking on the dock, Cory also boasts a personality and maturity well beyond most fifteen year-olds.

We interrupted Cory’s busy U.S.A schedule to get some insight into the thinkings of this young Aussie shredder.

INTERVIEW: JAMES TYRRELL PHOTOS: BRYAN SODERLIND

FEATURE

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“i t’s my f irst season on tour and to kick i t of f pretty strong, I couldn’t really ask for more right now.”

Cory you’ve been based in Orlando but you’re not there now.

Where are you? I’m in Knoxville, Tennessee right now. I’m here for the Supra catalogue shoot.

Nice, it looks like the season has kicked off pretty hard over there, how has it been so far? Yeah we’ve already had the first two stops of the Pro Tour and also Wake Games earlier in the season. We had Masters a couple of weeks ago, it was pretty cool to get invited to that, it’s a totally different event compared to everything else over here.

Is that your first invite to Masters? Yeah it was, I’m real honored to have been invited and to also make the final.

So along with that result you’ve had a second and a fifth respectively at the first two tour stops. You’re off to a pretty good start this season. Does it feel good to have some momentum early on?

Yeah exactly, I’m just stoked since it’s my first season on tour and to kick it off pretty strong, I couldn’t really ask for more right now. I just want to keep strong throughout the season and hopefully I can come home with a few wins.

The level of riding over there just seems to have jumped another level, Harley is making wake to wake tens look like sevens. Dowdy is throwing consistent wake-to-wake doubles, how long until tricks like these appear in the junior pros division? At the last tour stop it was probably the most intense Junior Pro final anyone has ever seen.

I was talking to a few people at the site, including Wayne Soven, Phil and Bob’s dad and he was saying, along with others that the top six in Junior Pros would make finals in Pros. I mean it’s getting pretty crazy in Junior Pros, I’m sure we’ll get to a point soon where we’ll have to throw some double flips and maybe even tens. We’ll see.

Do you regularly ride with the guys you compete against?

Yeah we all live five minutes from each other back in Orlando so yeah we always try and ride with each other. It’s not necessarily a rivalry it’s more a friendship. We always try and help each other out and get stoked to see everyone improve.

Who are you living with this year and where ? I live on Lake Jessamine and in the house there is myself, Brad my brother, Bec Gange and also Taylor McCullough who is in her second year of the Pro Women’s tour. So we’ve got a pretty good house, it’s pretty competitive between all of us. We’re pushing each other every set and trying to one-up each other all the time (laughs).

FEATURE

Who’s paying for your boat fuel? Supra has been kind enough to give us a new SA550 to ride behind this season, I saved up a lot of money while I was back home so I’m self-funding now. I pay for it myself.

Well done, it’s not the most affordable sport to pursue at your level and it sounds like for a fifteen year-old you’re doing it right! You must feel like there’s a pretty good Australian support crew over there now? Yeah totally and we all try and hang out a lot even when we’re not riding. I hang out with Harley quite a bit; he lives right across the lake so we see each other just about every day. It’s sick to ride with all the Aussies in a different country that’s for sure.

Did you guys watch Wake The Line? We did actually; we were at Masters while the event was on so we had to steal the wifi password so we could watch the live stream. It was funny ‘cause we were watching two events, Wake The Line on the iPad then we would watch Masters when someone would leave the dock.

It’s crazy how much good wakeboarding is going on, not only in the U.S but all over the World. It’s so sick, it’s cool to be able to support your mates competing in Europe at cable contests while we’re in America competing in boat contests.

“i t’s cool to be able to support your m a t e s c om p e t i n g i n E u r o p e a t c a ble contests while we’re in America c om p e t i n g i n b o a t c o n t e s t s . “

“Both sides of the sport are gett ing pushed real hard lately , but I don’t think i t has changed the value of the Pro Tour.”

How’s your relationship with your brother. Do you guys get along well or do you find it hard living with Brad? It’s a bit of both to be honest.

But I mean we’re sweet, it’s a lot like back home.

We grew up riding together and nothings really changed, we’re still riding together and pushing each other.

I was actually thinking there are quite a few pro wakeboard brothers out there who have been real successful in the sport. Guys like the Shane and Parks Bonifay, the Deromes, Ennens and the Sovens. Do you think having a brother to push your riding and share that common interest is an advantage in a way? Definitely. I feel like a lot of riders have to push themselves or it’s their parents who push them. But having a brother who also wakeboards brings out that natural rivalry, you are always competitive and want to do better than them. Having Brad being there to push me has definitely helped for sure.

The System 2.0 style competitions have become a new focal point in wakeboarding. With events like Wake The Line, Fise, Harbour Reach and more popping up each season, do you think the U.S boat tour still holds the same value and respect it has in the past? Yeah it does, I know the WWA are getting into the cable side of the sport as well, but the tour is still the same they are just two different aspects of the sport I guess. Both sides of the sport are getting pushed real hard lately, but I don’t think it has changed the value of the Pro Tour.

It’s important for the next generation of pro riders like yourself to understand and respect the ground work that was made by Australian pros earlier in the piece. Especially on tour, guys like Daniel, Josh, Ike and Falzon paved a pretty good path for you guys to follow. Do you feel there are certain expectations on you guys to follow their legacy so to speak? There is a little bit. Those guys came through and really set the stage for all of us. Guys like Brad, Tony and myself all want to do

our best to continue the Aussie success on tour.

I mean, there are guys like Dean (Smith), Chris O, Mitch and Brenton who have already made their mark. It’s good that we have a lot of older riders and mentors to look up to. The Dodgy Aussies set it all up and we’ve got to keep it going.

Who is influencing your riding the most right now? Honestly right now I’d say Raph Derome. He is so good at all aspects of the sport and has a killer style, it’s almost like he can do whatever he wants on a wakeboard. I really like how he’s so good behind the boat and then I think last year he won just about every System 2.0 comp there was. I definitely look up to Raph.

At the ripe old age of fifteen we’re after some of your advice. Say we’re pretty new in the sport and really want to progress and get to where you are one day. What advice would you offer? Keep having fun. The second wakeboarding stops being fun it’s going to become more like a chore and you won’t progress. Go and sign up to compete in the grass roots contests. In Australia there is the QWA (Queensland) and WBNSW (New South Wales), Wakeboard SA and Wakeboard Vic. They are a good way to meet other riders and push your riding further. But mainly keep having fun, if you enjoy it and want it enough, you can get there.

Thanks Cory.

“having a brother who also wakeboards brings out that natural rivalry , you are always compet i t ive and want to do better than them.�

FEATURE

Christian Robinson Photo: Kuri Wickliffe

Ryan Leary

Lake Eildon, VIC Photo: Bretthemmings.com

Bob Soven

Cables Wakepark, Penrith Photo: Bretthemmings.com

Conni Schrader Elb River, Germany Photo: Andre Kremmer

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James Windsor

GoWake Cable Park, QLD Photo: Chris Flaxman

Angie Schriber

Inselsee, Germany Photo: Daniel Deak Bardos

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The introduction of portable cable systems such as the Sesetec 2.0 has caused miniature wake scenes to appear all over the globe. We’re seeing small scale back yard style setups along with more commercial endeavors. This movement is in turn bringing a broader crowd to wakeboarding and wakeskating rapidly growing our beloved sports.

Last summer a System 2.0 was installed close to the Lake Illawarra shoreline. Initially developing a small network in the Illawarra area, the business now established as ‘Cable Tide’ boasts the first cable system to be installed in Wollongong, a short drive South of Sydney.

Naturally inquisitive, we packed our boards and took a quick run down the tarmac to meet up with the brains behind this humble little operation. DUP team rider Greg Wood joined us for a sunset session at ‘Cable Tide’ and a chat with Nick, the business owner.

Words & Photos: James Tyrrell

CHECK THIS SPOT

all a b o u t

C A B LE TI D E CHECK THIS SPOT

Interview with owner Nick Mowbray

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Well basically it was a way to wakeboard more often really. I’ve always loved the sport and it was a way to do it more and also a way of making it into a job.

CABLE TIDE

What was the initial motivation behind starting Cable Tide?

Tell me a little about the location, it’s pretty unique!

I’d go as far to say as we’ve had one hundred percent support. I haven’t heard a bad word and everyone seems keen to have something new for wakeboarding in the area. It’s a tourist attraction and something the locals can use so everyone seems behind it, which has been great.

What kinds of people do you get down there? Are they mainly people who have ridden before or do you get some newbies too?

It would be about 50-50 to be honest. We’ve taught a lot of people to ride and in saying that, once they’ve learned they have become regulars at the park as well. We have plenty of existing riders coming down too.

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How has the local community in Wollongong taken to the opening of Cable Tide?

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We looked at a number of different locations around the Illawarra and south coast region. We came up with the current location ‘cause it had the necessary infrastructure. There’s a car-park and it’s a pretty protected section of the Lake (Illawarra) and we had no problem with flowing, running water. Using a river or creek would involve potential flood dramas. It’s also got a really different backdrop for a wakepark so we decided to setup on Lake Illawarra.

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You have a few kickers and rails set up.

Do you have plans to add more in the near future?

We sort of ran out of time last season before launch to get some big rails set up. We’ve definitely got some good plans in the making for the coming season, we’re going to expand on our rails and jumps range and include some bigger transfers.

Are there future plans for growth of Cable Tide? Will you be adding more systems or perhaps even a full-size cable system?

Definitely. Our plan at the moment and our next step forward is to include another in-line cable system. Our master plan is to eventually open a full-size cable park down here.

Are you able to give away a time frame as when you’d expect that to happen?

I’d like to say within the next twelve months but realistically we’re hoping within the next two to three years I’d say.

We’ve got a good scene down here. It’s predominantly a boat scene, there are plenty of riders who like to get out behind the boat.

We’re starting to see a change though with riders who usually wouldn’t be interested in cable riding are coming to try it out and loving it. They can see the benefits for themselves in the tricks they can learn on the cable and then take out behind the boat.

What are the plans for Cable Tide for the coming summer?

We’re going to try and get a comp going this summer. We want to get more people down here, build more rails and get some better infrastructure built. Basically just expand on our business and keep our customers happy.

Have you got a regular crew who are riding on a regular basis?

We’ve got some young riders who get down here every week. We’ve got a bit of a boys club who gets down here but we’re starting to get some more girls come along. We like to encourage them and help them progress and learn something new every time.

Will the full-size cable be in the same location or a different spot?

No it will be in a different location, we’d actually be digging a lake for it. Much like Penrith.

CHECK THIS SPOT

Is there much of a wakeboard scene in Wollongong?

CABLE TIDE

Visit: www.cabletidewake.com.au

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INTERVIEW: Mark ‘Turtle’ McNamara PHOTOS: Brett Hemmings

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Oli Derome French-Canadian born, Orlando-living, Australia visiting, professional wakeboard rider; Oli Derome is no stranger to travel. He recently made his first appearance in Australia and fit right in. We sent Mark McNamara in for a quick interview with Oli to ask about wakeboarding and being an honorary Aussie.

They’re trying to make that path their own and push the sport in the direction that they think is right. And I appreciate that.

What do you feel is the most progressive thing in wakeboarding today?

Well, either being a music artist, touring and on the road. It’s completely different to what I know, but it would be awesome.

It’s hard to pin point one thing, but I’d say the most progressive thing right now is everything that’s associated with cable riding, like 2.0 or full size cable. I think that aspect of the sport has grown a lot in the last few years. People are getting so creative with the set-ups that are getting built.

But the whole sport is progressing; boat riding is at a new level with all the new boats coming out. The wakes from these new generation boats has pretty much changed everything. It’s so much easier to do your tricks on these big wakes. It opens the door for wake-to-wake tens and double flips.

Winching is also progressing; people are getting better at it and are more confident about hitting spots that we previously may not have thought was possible.

Which three people in wakeboarding most inspire you?

Raph Derome the boat rider, Raph Derome the rail rider...the people who are out there wanting to progress. I mean, there are a number of guys out there I could name. I guess Raph just stands out to me. I may be a little biased being his brother. There are so many guys though who have a vision and are going for it. Instead of being guided by the industry and where it’s going.

What would you have done if you could have done anything else as your profession?

Realistically or just being a full on dreamer?

Dream it up!

Being a pro hockey player would also be awesome.

It’s a fun sport to me.

Otherwise being a surfer or skateboarder. I think surfing is cool because you get to travel to places in the World and actually live with the people. Or as a skateboarder you go to awesome destinations but you’re always in the city. When we’re traveling for wakeboarding we see the airport, hotel, event site, maybe a restaurant or bar and that’s about it. So those guys travel for weeks at a time but they get a real feel for the places they go.

If you had a choice, would you prefer an amazing competition result or an amazing video part?

Well that’s funny because it’s a question you could ask yourself every year and have a different answer every time. Growing up, all I did was watch wakeboard videos. It was hard for me to find competition footage to watch. I always thought growing up you needed results to make it. So getting into the industry I always thought, man I’d kill for a first place.

You begin to realize that competition results are sweet but a video section will never die. My favorite video was ‘Incomplete.’ That video came out when I was a kid but I still watch it now. The riding has progress so much since that was filmed but I still love watching it now. So right now, a video section because they’re timeless.

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Oli Derome

If you had the chance to spend a day with one of the following people, who would it be and why?

President Obama Ghandi Richard Branson Tony Hawk It wouldn’t be Tony Hawk, although that’d be cool. He’d probably tell me I’m a kook for wakeboarding and being shit at skateboarding.

Favorite Australian food.

I really like the Aussie breakfast. It doesn’t matter if it’s home cooked or from a restaurant, breakfast in Australia is always good.

What is the best way deal with Australian wildlife when in the Outback.

Die. No deal with the wildlife.

I’d probably get in trouble telling Obama his country is weird.

Yeah if you die you don’t have to deal with it!

So I would either want to learn a lot from Ghandi or party my way into space with Richard Branson.

Depends on the mood.

(Laughs)

Name five essential words needed to talk like a true Australian?

In the iconic Australian movie “The Castle”, When Steve tells Darryl the price of an item on ebay, what would his response always be?

Oh I’m gonna get judged for this.

C*#%, heaps, oi, oath and a tie between ‘far out’ and ‘right-o’.

Now put them all in a sentence.

(Laughs) I can’t do that it’ll sound really bad.

Drop bears are what I’m worried about.

‘Tell him he’s dreamin’’ (Laughs) That’s my favorite line from the movie actually. I was really nervous I wouldn’t get that question right. I feel like I would’ve let everyone in Australia down.

If you could take one item home from Australia what would it be?

What is you favorite Australian past time.

Hangin’ out on the porch, havin’’’ a barbecue, drinkin’’ some beers.

The Follow Vacation. Bag that whole thing; Bonnie Doon, the Houseboat, wakeboard boats, the kangaroos, all the people, Wombie the wombat and ship it all over.

A peculiar interview with Mark ‘Turtle’ McNamara

INSIGHTS

CABLE TO BOAT with Joel Bartley

CAB bretthemmings.com

Heelside FS 360

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A heelside frontside 360 is a basic move that is not only a foundation for more advanced tricks, but can be impressive on it’s own when taken big or grabbed before or after the handle pass. Learning this first on the cable is a great way to progress onto taking it to the wake.

01. The Approach

The secret to a good heelside 360, like many tricks starts with the approach. Take a mellow, progressive cut into the kicker building you speed all the way to the kicker.

02. The Pop

It’s important to pop straight up on this trick. Try and pop before you begin to spin. Pre-spinning up the kicker is not only seen as cheating, but it’s also training your technique toward instant failure behind the boat. Ya can’t pre-spin up the wake!

03. The Handle

Once in the air, pull the handle hard into your back hip and begin your rotation by looking over your shoulder. Pass the handle once it reaches the small of your back.

BLE 04. The Landing

WHY LEARN IT ON THE CABLE FIRST?

Control your rotation with the handle by keeping it close to your body. It’s easy to over-rotate off a slippery kicker, so keeping the handle close to your body will ensure maximum control.

The cable will generally operate slower than wakeboard speed behind a boat. This means you can work on your technique and take some falls without the pain of a higher speed crash behind the boat.

05. Mix it up

Once you have the basic 360 dialed in, work on grabbing it. Try a nose grab before the handle pass (like Joel in the sequence). You can even keep your legs sucked up and grab stalefish or indy after the handle pass. Grab before and after the handle pass for extra respect in the park.

Take it bigger. The more time in the air means the longer you can grab and poke the board.

Lengthen your cut and build more speed to take it BIG!

PREPARING FOR THE WAKE

The fundamentals of this trick are almost identical when taking it to the wake. The key step to have correct before trying a 360 behind the boat is the take-off. The wake won’t be as forgiving as a kicker. The slippery surface of a kicker will allow you to spin before you get into the air (pre-spin).

Avoid this at all cost as you WILL fall straight onto your face if you start your spin too early behind the boat.

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So you’ve mastered the heelside fontside 360 at the cable park, now it’s time to take it to the wake. Technique is a little more crucial behind the boat, it’s good to make sure you are confident with your wake-jumps and heelside 180’s first.

It might pay to start with a slightly shorter rope allowing a softer cut at the wake.

You’ll find there will be more like tension behind the boat making the handle pass a little harder. Once you have landed a couple on a shorter rope, lengthen the rope to where you would normally ride.

bretthemmings.com

01. The Approach

The cut at the wake is super crucial. More so than at the cable. You want to get a straight up pop off the wake, so take a mellow, progressive edge toward the wake keeping your elbows locked into your sides and handle close to your belly button.

02. The Pop

Standing tall at the top of the wake will give you a nice vertical pop. Make sure you wait till you reach the top of the wake before you pop and definitely avoid spinning until you are up in the air.

03. The Handle

As you pop into the air, much like off the kicker, pull the handle toward your back hip with both hands. This will begin to initiate your spin, and you should aim to start spinning at the top of your jump.

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Once again pass the handle when it reaches the small of your back and continue to look around to spot the top of the second wake.

04. The Landing

Spotting your landing nice and early will help you to complete your rotation and prepare to ride away from the 360. While you’re first learning this trick, it’s best to aim to land on the transition of the second wake. That will result in a nice smooth landing. Much softer than what you will be used to at the cable park.

WHAT NOT TO DO

Don’t spin too early! This is a big mistake many people make. Spinning early can result in an unexpected face-plant or and can even make the handle pass close to impossible.

Don’t look down! Looking down will force your body forward and might put you in position for a painful front edge. Aim to keep your head and chest up nice and tall.

WHAT’S NEXT?

Grab it, take it to the flats, learn it switch. The possibilities are endless once you’ve got your 360 dialed in. Get your buddies to film you and review the footage, it’s a good way to check your style and make it look the way you want it.

CABLE TO BOAT with Joel Bartley

CAB CAB 540

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A cab 540 is basically a switch heelside frontside 540. The word Cab stems from the skateboard move a Caballarial. But we won’t go into that, we’ll save the history lesson for another edition.

To learn a cab 540 you’ll want to spend some time riding switch and get comfortable taking off the kicker on your switch heelside. A half-cab (switch frontside 180) is a definite per-requisite before starting on a cab 540.

Cab 5’s really aren’t that technical, with a regular stance landing and an ‘unwinding’ feel through the trick, they can be a really easy trick to learn and master.

CABLE TO BOAT with Joel Bartley

01. The Approach

Starting wide on the cab 5 will help you build a progressive edge to the kicker. Keep your edge smooth and build your speed right up to the kicker. Keep your elbows locked into your sides and the handle close to your core.

02. The Pop

Much like the frontside 360, stand tall at the top of the kicker and push off slightly. Keeping the handle in close the whole time, make sure you pop into the air before you initiate the spin.

03. The Handle

Like all frontside rotations, bring both hands to your trailing hip before letting go with your leading hand. Getting a nice early handle pass in this trick will give you plenty of time to complete the rotation and give you time to prepare to land.

BLE 04. The Rotation

WHY LEARN IT ON THE CABLE FIRST?

Looking over your leading shoulder (Joels right shoulder in this sequence) will initiate the spin. It’s common for people to focus too much on the spin with this trick resulting in missing the handle pass. It’s vital that you focus on the handle pass before worrying about the spin.

Taking off the kicker switch is a whole lot easier than launching off the wake switch. At the cable you can also spend plenty of time cutting laps, working on your switch riding without burning through a tank of boat fuel.

Once you have passed the handle you will feel as if you are unwinding. You’ll almost feel more natural spinning past the 360 point and into the 540.

05. The Landing

As you unwind and come around to complete the 540, keep the handle as close to your body as you can. This will help you control the spin.

Land with your shoulders over your toes and ride away on your toeside edge. The handle should now be close to your leading hip, if it has drifted too far away you’ll get pulled out the front.

PREPARING FOR THE WAKE

Learning basic tricks as a foundation for the cab 540 is way more crucial when preparing to take the cab 5 to the wake. Learn and master your switch heelside cut, half-cab and switch 360 first.

Having a strong upper body and good handle control will also help, so do plenty of riding and even some off water training like trampolining or get in the gym to speed up the learning process.

bretthemmings.com

BO CAB 540

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The cab 540 off the wake can be a little tricky at first, but with some work it can be smooth as silk and will please any crowd aboard your chosen vessel.

Once mastered this is a great trick to make your own. Send it large and into the flats as a salute to Keith Lyman, or tech wake to wake and build toward that 720.

The cab 540 behind the boat will earn you great points in your competition run and even better style points on a late afternoon sesh with your buddies.

01. The Approach

A wide start is best with the cab 540. Roll onto your switch heelside edge and drift in toward the wake. Build speed so you are at the fastest point as you get to the top of the wake.

02. The Pop

Chest up and stand tall. You’ve heard us say it every time, but that’s how you pop. Once you’re off the top of the wake and heading into orbit, suck your knees up toward your chest. Spinning like a top all straight has never looked pretty.

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0 3. The Handle

Yep you guessed it. Pull with both hands so the Yep handle h andle reaches your trailing hip. Then look over your y our leading shoulder and reach for the pass.

O AT CABLE TO BOAT with Joel Bartley

WHAT NOT TO DO

04. The Rotation

Once you have passed the handle, again you will begin to ‘unwind’. You might need to push the rotation around a little harder behind the boat to get over your toes for the landing.

05. The Landing

Push the handle down and keep your chest up and over your toes when landing. Have your eyes focused on the shoreline to help you ride away on your toeside edge.

Spin with straight legs. No really, don’t! Learn from the beginning to suck your legs up and grab the board. Making this trick look good ain’t that hard and anyway, we want to promote stylish riding, then we’ll have more riders to shoot!

WHAT’S NEXT?

Dial it in. Landing one doesn’t mean you can do them. Get that cab 540 on lock then grab it on the nose or between your bindings. Grab it before the handle pass or after the handle pass. Grab it twice and send us the sequence so we can show the World!

bretthemmings.com

BLINK AND YOU’LL MISS IT THE NEWS THAT FLEW RIGHT ON BY!

The digital world has become an addictive space of fast flying source of instant news and information. Unfortunately sometimes we miss the informative stuff as it becomes buried in a black hole of viral, stimulating, lame, comedic and false information. Here is some of the stuff that has happened recently that you should know about.

DUP 2014 RANGE It’s that time of year again when all the board companies around the World are preparing to unleash their new range of products to the consumers. Some industry folk (like ourselves) are lucky enough to peep these new products in advance, DUP Wake are so excited about their new range that they released a teaser clip to give you all a sneaky preview to wet your appetite. We’ve had a close look at the DUP 2014 range and all we can say is you can expect the best Double Up product you’ve ever seen and ridden!

Click to watch the teaser.

WAKE THE LINE 2013 Raph Derome took top honors at one of the biggest events on the wakeboard calendar.

Wake The Line drew a massive crowd to the Olympic pool transformed wake park in Cologne, Germany. Reed Hansen took the win in the wakeskate division, proving the event attracts the best in wakeboarding from Around the World.

Read the full report here.

www.wakedition.com.au For daily information that ain’t junk!

GROMMIE NATS 2013 Grommie Nats made a huge return for 2013 thanks the ProWake crew. For those who don’t know, Grommie Nats is like the Summer Nats for wakeboardings future. Over 35 kids under eighteen rocked out on Somerset Dam behind five loaded Tige boats. New tricks were learned, friends were made and good times were had.

Read the full report here.

THE NEW MALIBU 20MXZ We were lucky enough to get an exclusive invite to see the new Malibu 20MXZ in the flesh at GRE Marine in Sydney. These beasts are built around a slightly shorter hull than it’s 22 foot brother, but as we’ve been told, still creates an A-Grade wake.

We’re impressed by this latest addition to the Malibu fleet and can’t wait to get one on the water.

Read the full report here.

‘DOWN UNDER’ THE MOVIE ‘Down Under’ the movie was released on our website exclusively and the insane flow of sudden traffic almost caused the site to explode. What else would you expect when this video features the likes of Raph Derome, Daniel Grant, Bob Soven, James Windsor, Sophie Hogben, Greg Wood and more.

It’s a must see web flick shot around Australia during the 2013 summer. If you haven’t already watched it five times, watch it now!

Click to watch the video.

BLINK AND YOU’LL MISS IT

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Well we lied; we didn’t actually travel to Sydney, Wakedition is based here and we’re not gonna lie, we know all the good spots. Hand us that megaphone cause we’re assuming the tour guide position, so sit back, relax and get ready to experience the best riding spots Sydney has to offer.

THE HAWKESBURY RIVER Heading North just out of Sydney, look to your left and you’ll see the mighty Hawkesbury River.

This is our first stop of the tour and you’re gonna like it! How does close to 120 kilometres of buttery water sound? Well in comparison to many river systems around the world she ain’t all that big but there are plenty of places to stay and glassy stretches to ride.

PLACES TO STAY The number one location for visiting riders to the Hawkesbury River can be found in the quiet riverside town of Wiseman’s Ferry. Located 60km West of the Sydney CBD, Wiseman’s’ is the ultimate place for a wakeboarding adventure and no trip to the Hawkesbury should be made without dropping into Black Diamond Wakeboard School.

Scotty Kell is the man when it comes to wakeboard coaching in Australia. World renowned for his riding and coaching, Scotty has been the mentor for countless wake riders over the years. Including many who now compete on the international pro circuit.

Black Diamond offers lessons for all riding abilities and has on-site accommodation should you want to spend a few days enjoying the buttery conditions at Wiseman’s Ferry. It’s best to

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contact Scotty and Sal at Black Diamond prior for availability.

There are countless small towns situated along the Hawkesbury River that provide accommodation and ideal wakeboarding conditions. Most accommodation is basic, camping style or small bed and breakfast setups but you’ll find all these areas have a unique atmosphere and will make for an unforgettable travel experience.

RIDING CONDITIONS The Hawkesbury offers more buttery conditions than any ridable river in the Sydney region.

No matter the wind direction you’ll be able to find a flat straight of water. Water temps are mild and you’ll only need a wetsuit from about May to early September.

Hawkesbury local Glenn Napier can be often seen ripping glassy stretches with his bro Matt behind their X-Star.

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Dean Smith sometimes makes the trek from the Hacko to the Hawkesbury to score some flat, fresh water.

THE DOS Stay at Black Diamond Eat at the Wiseman’s Inn Hotel Avoid the Bridge-to-Bridge event. (A ski race that closes the river).

Take all supplies with you. There are some good shops and small cafes along the river but you’ll find them few and far between. It’s best to be prepared.

THE DON’T S Jump off any cliffs / rocks without checking the depth first. (Best to seek advice from locals) It’s tempting we know!

Attempt to drive to Wiseman’s without a map or GPS

PENRITH & THE NEPEAN A short drive from the mighty Hawkesbury we find ourselves rolling through Penrith, a growing region in Sydney’s West where you will find the infamous Cables Wakepark within a stones throw from the Nepean River. It’s early in the morning but the river is closed until 9am for the rowing trainers, so lets grab a bight to eat from the Nepean Coffee Club then head to the wake park.

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RIDING CONDITIONS Cables Wakepark opens at 10am daily through most of the year. If you want some flat water and short lines be there with your board right on 10am. This place gets busy! We usually spend the day fighting a hangover then hit the water after 3pm for the best of conditions.

Cables Wakepark has two lakes on offer; one clockwise and one anti-clockwise both loaded with obstacles to wet your rail riding appetite.

There are also two System 2.0 setups where you’ll also find the monster Cables Wakepark quarter-pipe.

After your session at the cable it’s time to hit the Nepean River. The stretch of ridable water on the Nepean is only short, but can be quite good. Late afternoons are best. Bring your own boat ‘cause there aren’t many options for a ride unless you make some friends with a boat while at the cable.

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PLACES TO STAY

Paul Boyd grabbing Japan in the Nepean narrows followed by a shred at the cable.

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Cables Wakepark offers basic dorm style accommodation, which is great if you’re traveling on your own and with a tight budget. For those who prefer something a little more private and comfortable, the Chifley Hotel connected to Panthers Leagues Club will do the trick. It’s only a short walk from the park and situated in the same complex. Penrith boasts a number of accommodation options from caravan parks, motels and inns.

THE DO’S Shred your face off at Cables Wakepark. It’s one of the best in the Southern Hemisphere.

Stay close to the cable; you will have a better chance at picking the quieter times to ride.

Take a day trip to the Blue Mountains, it’s not far to travel and there are some great sightseeing and adventuring destinations that are worth a look.

Head into the Sydney CBD to party. The bars in Penrith are average at best.

Don’t stay in Penrith for the entire duration of your trip to Sydney. Activities are limited and you don’t want to miss out on the best Sydney can offer.

Don’t get a life ban from Panthers on your first night. (Or maybe you should, it will save you some valuable money and relieve you from a nasty hangover).

Try and fight the locals at the pub. Just don’t.

Visit: www.cableswakepark.com.au

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THE DON’TS

Christian Robinson doesn’t mind the trek from Perth when it means he gets to ride the wave kicker all day long at Cables Wakepark.

CHECK THIS SPOT

THE PORT HACKING Traveling southeast for just over an hour lands us in the vicinity of the Port Hacking River. This body of crystal clear water is populated with desirable housing on one side and meets the Royal National Park on the other. With only a short distance to the ocean, the Port Hacking provides a great location for some water-based activities.

PLACES TO STAY Cronulla is the best place to find accommodation. Stays vary from backpacker hostels to nicer hotels. Quest apartments above Northies are a good option if you like to party and don’t want a long walk to bed. You’ll also find the beach right across the road for a wave or early morning hangover revival.

RIDING CONDITIONS Dropping the boat in at Yowie Bay or Wally’s Wharf in Lilli Pilli is recommended. From there navigate your way to South-West arm if the wind is blowing from the South or Gymea Bay during the summer North-Easterly.

Being coastal, the Hacko picks up quite a bit of wind, and you’ll find there aren’t many narrow straights to escape it. You will find however, the bays are deep and keeping close to the hilly shoreline will give you some protection from the sea breeze.

Hayley Smith is a born and bread Hacko rider. It’s likely you’ll see her ripping around the bays in the days and by night ripping just as hard on the Northies dance floor.

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You’ll need to be on the water early or around sunset for the best conditions. There is a lot of boating traffic on the Hacko and riding spots are limited.

The Hacko is well known for it’s party scene.

Commonly you will find boats rafted together and if you’re lucky a DJ might make an appearance. Raft up and make some friends, and get your dancing shorts on!

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THE DO’S Eat Mexican at Beach Burrito Co. in Cronulla and try their chilli tequila.

Dance your feet off at Northies.

Ride early mornings or late afternoons.

Abide by the waterway laws. Police and MSB patrol the Hacko fiercely.

Pack an esky, you’ll probably do more partying than riding.

THE DON’TS Expect buttery water all day. It ain’t gonna happen.

Annoy the local fishermen. They’ll try and stab you.

Come without a boat. It will be hard to score a ride.

THE GEORGES RIVER Only fifteen minutes travelling North (and back towards Sydney CBD) we’ll come across The Georges River and Botany Bay. The Georges River stretches approximately ninety-six kilometers from the inland suburbs of South-Western Sydney and lands in Botany Bay. If your trip to Sydney begins at Sydney Airport, chances are you’ll land right next to Botany Bay. The Georges offers plenty of flat water worth riding but some prior knowledge or local help will ensure the best experience.

RIDING CONDITIONS You’ll find the best riding conditions up-stream either at ‘Cattle Duffers’ and ride down to Alfords Point Bridge. Or even further up-stream near Milperra, launching your boat at the ramp off Newbridge Road. The river is narrower in these areas providing flat water on most occasions; just keep an eye out for eight-knot zones and no ski areas.

Botany Bay can occasionally glass off for a good wake session especially between Tom Ugly’s and Captain Cook Bridge, however any wind will quickly ruin your flat water.

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PLACES TO STAY The best areas to find accommodation close to the Georges will be nearer to the coast. Brighton Le Sands, Oyster Bay or close to Kogarah Bay will be the best places to look. The riding conditions in this area might not be the best on the river, but there are plenty of protected bays where flat straights can be found.

THE DO’S Be aware of the channel markers, there can be some unexpected shallow spots.

Expect large, orange jellyfish. Especially close to Botany Bay.

THE DON’TS Expect clear, clean water like the Port Hacking.

Reece Jordan is a Hacko rider from way back, but sometimes when he and Paul Boyd want some guaranteed flat water, The Geroges River is the destination of choice.

Unless you’re riding in Botany Bay, the water in the Georges is a little browner.

Waste too much time riding here, head to the Hawkesbury instead.

Ride early mornings at Milperra, Paul Boyd and Reece Jordan like to keep the flat water to themselves!

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SYDNEY HARBOUR

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Sydney Harbour is one of the most picturesque harbours in the World. The large expanse of water known as Port Jackson was the location of the first European settlement in Australia. Being a busy body of water surrounded by Australia’s largest city, the harbour isn’t known for it’s flat ridable water, there is however a few spots where you can sneak a ride in.

RIDING CONDITIONS Middle Harbour; up-stream from The Spit Bridge will often glass off for an early morning and late afternoon session. Avoiding busy boating days including weekends and public holidays are a must as boating activity in this area can ruin your flat water quickly. Some areas West of the Sydney Harbour Bridge including The Parramatta River and Lane Cove River may provide flat, ridable water but will also be subject to rollers caused by recreational and commercial boating traffic.

Be sure to check the NSW Maritime boating rules, which include specific regulations applied to Sydney Harbour.

PLACES TO STAY Sydney has more choices of accommodation than you can poke a stick at. The only trouble you may have is finding a place where you can park your boat.

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THE DO’S Stop at Doyles (Sydney Fish Markets) for a seafood lunch.

Avoid any Ferry routes. Sydney Harbour is the busiest body of water in Australia.

Take care if you plan to drive around the Harbour Bridge and the Opera House. The water will be rough, really rough.

THE DON’TS Plan to ride on weekends or public holidays. Take an esky and some food and enjoy the scenery instead.

Launch your boat without all necessary safety equipment and knowledge of the current boating laws on Sydney Harbour.

Drive an overloaded wakeboard down the middle of the broad water. You’ll be seeking emergency help before you know it.

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MATT ROGERS PIC. James Tyrrell

BOB SOVEN PIC. BRETTHEMMINGS.COM

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Th i s a i n’t n o on e ma n s h ow By strapping on a board, stepping on a wakeskate or carving on a wakesurfer, we’re immediately walking into a spotlight.

A spotlight were you as the rider are the center of attention for the people in the boat, on the bank at the wakepark or standing by your local winching spot.

There’s no doubt that our beloved water sports are tailored to the individual who doesn’t mind a little attention. And there’s nothing wrong with that.

But unlike our close relatives of surfing, snowboarding and skateboarding, our sports require more than just that one individual to make it happen. What am I getting at you’re asking? Yeah it’s late and I’m mere hours from the deadline but hear me out.

I want to grab that spotlight and take it away from the talented board riding individual, and cast a bright beam onto the people behind the scenes. Whether it be the boat driver, observer, cable operator or winch driver.

Without the equally talented people behind the scenes wakeboarding wouldn’t exist. So don’t get caught up in that spotlight all on your own, share a little love for the ones who help make you look good. Cause without that straight boat line, or perfect double-up you’re gonna look pretty Joe Average.

Out .

JT.

“I want to grab that spotlight and take it away from the talented board riding individual, and cast a bright beam onto the people behind the scenes.”

OUT.

Mark ‘Turtle’ McNamara working hard behind the scenes.