Hey Nathan. If I were you I would get a SUP with the mast track option. I went out yesturday on my Starboard 11'2 in barely 15knots and planned 100% of the time with my 5.7m Tushie Rock. I was very impressed
But as for just paddling I think that a board of 30" is a must. As for length Starboard (I ride an Evo and Fishies) offers boards from 9' to 12' but personally if you want to flat water paddle and surf in small fat tiny typical Perth waves during summer then dont go too small as you will stuggle trying to get onto them.
SUP boards around the 9' would be good for just wave riding in big rolling surf like Yals. But saying that you will be super surprised at how loose an 11' board is. And it wouldnt be shy in big surf. I had mine out at Metts last Thursday and it was closing out. It blew me away at how surfy these boards are as I have grown up surfing shortboards.
The Naish 11'6 would be sweet. Ive tried this on flat water and in waves and its a good chunky floaty board.
I havent tried the Mistral but I think that this would be a good board for what you want.
Anywho enough of my dribble maybe someone else can help you?
