Summer

Sorry to remind you but there's only 4 weeks left... Sure it's been consistently small, but I'll still miss the long days and warm water. At least it means the swell season is upon us.

Mates

Drop ins. Never mind the rest of the lineup, the ones to watch are your mates.

Old Guys Rule

So the sticker says. There's a bunch of surfers around here who've been surfing longer than I've been alive. They're still stoked on the glide and I'm stoked seeing them out there. And yes I had some fun in photoshop...

South Coast

A few years ago now, scored a really fun session at this super reliable South Coast beach.

Hawaiian Style

As I understand it a big part of early Hawaiian style was about length of ride. It's cool seeing learners ride all the way to shore until their fins come to rest in the sand. Maximum glide time at North Avoca and Copacabana.

Nirvana

Apparently Nirvana's a state characterized by freedom from the external world - sounds like surfing. Also I've noticed a lot of refined Nirvana surfboards are ridden (and ridden well) when the swell comes up around here. Last week at home.

Yesteryear

September 10 last year. Took a hurried lineup shot before heading out for a really fun midday session. Affectionately known as the Avoca Super Bank, now a distant memory.

Morning Light

Makes you feel good being out in the morning light, great way to start the day.

Steve at Nias

Way back when we were both single, my good mate Steve Gilbert and I spent 2 months in Indonesia including about 5 weeks out at Lagundri Bay. This a mellow day, Steve doesn't seem to be too concerned whether he makes the section or not. I just dig the light and vibe of this shot. Classic trip mate, happy birthday.

Swell

First overhead swell for 2010.

Captain Cook

The surf report said it was full and average. It wasn't epic but it was a lot of fun, pays to look for yourself.

Attitude

Avoca

North Avoca

Not many bothered on these mornings. I'm pretty sure these guys were glad they did though, all depends on your attitude.

Shore thing

Sure has been a lot of shorey waves ridden this summer. This this little wall stood up at Copacabana early in the new year.

Free

Free as a bird. A clean, over waist high wave with no one around. Avoca Beach circa winter 2008.

Pseudonym

'Surfer Joe' is a place for everyday surfers, their waves, their boards. It's not so much about me. But if you are wondering...

My name actually is Joe.

I live on the Central Coast.

I first attempted to stand on a surfboard in 1992.

I enjoy all kinds of boards and all kinds of waves.

Even mushy waves at The Pass.

At home

Similar to watching first-timers, it's a pleasure to see someone steadily progressing in their surfing. This is my wife Katherine. She began her surfing journey on our honeymoon of all places! She's as hooked as me now. Avoca Beach at a quieter time of year.

In the beginning...

I'm certain there is nothing more exhilarating in surfing than those first rides. It was a long time ago for me now, but I love to watch others find their feet. I reckon joyous learner photos will become a regular fixture here. Kids in the corner at Copacabana.