Paige, what was it like growing up in Noosa?
I had a rural upbringing in Diddillibah, Queensland, where my siblings and I had 3 acres as our backyard. Motor bikes, sand pit, cubby house, push bikes, go cart, swimming pool and our 3 dogs, Shadow, Smokey and Mitchell. I was a tom-boy at heart and remember always stealing my brothers clothes to wear. I thought I’d live in boys clothes for the rest of my life until I wore my first skirt at age 12.
Looking back, it was very calm and peaceful. Not many neighbours, with quiet roads set out amidst the cane fields. A typical Australian upbringing I guess I could say.
How did you luck into travelling and surfing for a career with Reef?
Its a funny thing. I never, not once thought about becoming a sponsored surfer. It was so far fetched in my mind. But when I was living in Noosa, I was invited to go down to Byron Bay, NSW one weekend and assist on a Reef fashion photo shoot. Mainly to just be in the background, surf, model and have fun. After that, Reef kept in touch, and as of 2013, I signed a contract to be their Longboard Ambassador.
This life I’ve been given is a blessing and I can’t explain my gratitude towards Reef. It’s as though we are one big family and each year keeps getting better and better.
How many places have you travelled to recently with Reef and where’s were the best waves?
I’ve been to Canada, Philippines, Bali, Japan, Australia, Cambodia, Vietnam, Sri Lanka, Maldives. The best wave was in the Maldives.
What do you love most about travelling?
Being outside of my comfort zone. Being able to immerse myself in an environment for the first time and learn about my surroundings from the moment I arrive. Getting out my map, (or in my case google maps), opening my language book, currency exchange… Exploring the new.
But I get the most pleasure in engaging with people. We all lead such different lives and each one of us have a story to tell. I enjoy learning how other peoples mind work. What influences and experiences they’ve had through out their lives, to have shaped them into the person they are today. Its fascinating.
What boards do you take with you on your travels?
I have three boards. My 9’3 longboard, 6’0 single fin and 6’1 two plus one. My longboard being the favourite.
I’m just fixated with being on the nose. It’s a feeling like no other. Knowing how to line up your board and be in the correct position of the wave to actually be at the nose, is control with utmost precision. Something I find beautiful.
Apart from your board what essentials do you always pack?
Essentially, I carry everything I own, with me at all times. But first things that come to mind is my journal, passport, and whatever book I’m reading at the time.
How would you describe your life right now?
Spontaneous. It’s all about meeting up with friends in different parts of the world and doing road trips. But generally I move around every two months or so, not currently having a home base.
What tune gets you pumped for a surf?
Ha, ha! I can’t remember the last time I listened to music on my way to surf. I think it was in Australia when I owned a car. Nowadays, I’m usually in a tuk-tuk, just me, bikinis and my boards!
How would you describe your life right now?
Spontaneous. It’s all about meeting up with friends in different parts of the world and doing road trips. But generally I move around every two months or so, not currently having a home base.
What motto do you live by?
Treat others how you want to be treated.
Follow Paige on instagram / paigemaddison_
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