The Feeling Is Forever
“I just want surfers to feel special – to realize that we’re the luckiest people in the world.”
– Gordon Merchant
In 1973, our founder started Billabong with one vision: to share that magic feeling of waveriding with the rest of the world. Five decades later, driven by Merchant’s obsession with pushing surfing and surf culture forward, we’re more committed than ever to our founder’s original dream.
FOREVER FORWARD – EPISODE 05: Jackson Dorian
Five decades of looking forward. Surfing is forever on the path of “better.” Better gear, better performances on better equipment and a better understanding of how we can contribute to a healthier ocean and a healthier planet.
This wouldn’t be possible without the next generation, the group who takes it all in with fresh eyes and asks, “What if?”.
As Jackson Dorian tells us, “The only way to improve is to set a goal…and then never quit trying until you achieve it.”
CULTURE IS FOREVER - EPISODE 04: Otis Carey
Five decades of culture. Surfing has a way of speaking to all walks of life, and that common language has the power to change the world for the better.
As artist, surfer and proud Bumbaynggirr - Bundjalung Man Otis Carey says, “A love for the ocean is a bridge that can bring people and communities together in new and meaningful ways.”
STYLE IS FOREVER - EPISODE 03: Mark Occhilupo
Five decades of style. For more than 40 years, we’ve been making gear for one of surfing’s greatest gifts: the inimitable Mark Occhilupo.
As his unique approach to riding waves has arguably inspired more “cover bands” than any other surfer in modern times, Occy claims he’s always evolving. “The best style to me,” he says, “is no style at all.”
PROGRESSION IS FOREVER - EPISODE 02: Italo Ferreira
Five Decades of Progression. In the early years, Billabong founder Gordon Merchant had a golden rule for his team: ""Never look in the rearview mirror."
And while we're a bit guilty of doing that right now (just this once), we wanted to highlight the past five decades and some of the big moments that helped push the sport forward.
As Olympic gold medalist Italo Ferreira says, "I'm still just a kid full of dreams."
When this is your mindset, anything is possible.
THE FEELING IS FOREVER - EPISODE 01: ANDY IRONS
Five decades of The Feeling. As most surfers know, “The Feeling” is better shown than explained. Which is why our founder Gordon Merchant originally created the “Wave Icon” to show the brand in perpetual motion.
It’s been interpreted and reimagined many times over the years, but one thing remains constant: the feeling is forever.
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