Easter this year I had the opportunity to try SUPing for the 1st time. A mate game me a try of his Laird 12' (thanks Micko). Was staying at Ballina at the time, so went out in the River for a test drive. saw some 1'-2' waves breaking in front of the bridge so paddled over for a surf. Wasn't long before I realised you have to get right back on the board to make a decent turn. I WAS HOOKED. Next step to convince the wife and raise the funds. I decided on an 11' NSP mainly because of the price. Started paddling in the Rivers 1st (Coomera and Currumbin) to build some paddle strength (you really feel it around the stomach area). The recent School Hols I was at maroochy for a week. Surfing the River mouth and at the Surf Club (nice banks there at the moment). What I love about SUP is you get more waves and you can surf away from the crowds and explore other areas. Next I had a SUP at the Alley (my local for regular surfing). I try to keep away from the others but it was crowded. I like it when you can combine flat water and surfing in the one session. 2 weeks ago I went in at Charis Seafood and paddled out to in front of Wave Break. I heard you can catch some waves here sometimes, but not this time as the tide was higher and swell small. Decided to head out thru the Seaway for a surf. Went left to TOS as I was on that side of the wall. Had a great time mucking around in 2'+ waves but not a preferred wave for SUPing. I was shagged when I got home. Last Thur. morn. went to the Alley. This was the day the swell was starting to increase. Went for a SUP near the rocks as the crowds where sitting wider. Had great time catching lefts (my natural). Tied dropping swell increasing went back to the car and changed boards for a regular surf with my 8' fish. What a morning! So what I have found out is, if I can get 2 surfs in (SUP & regular) I am a very happy man. Thanks for reading my story so far. Photos are from the mouth of the Maroochy River.