The SBIA has had a mammoth couple of weeks, not only did we bring you our very first SBIA Awards Ceremony digitally, but we also conducted our AGM and off the back of this meeting there has been some significant changes to our Board of Management that we’d like to share.

In bittersweet news for the Board, Anthony ‘Macka’ Wilson has stepped down as SBIA President. Upon reflection, Macka says “It’s been an incredible privilege to serve our industry and I am stepping down with an amazing highlight reel of events, people and friendships! My time and effort wouldn’t have been possible without the support of Ness and our girls and also my work family. It’s an exciting new chapter for SBIA and I’m looking forward to being involved under Heathy’s leadership.” Macka is a founding member of the SBIA & has successfully led the SBIA Board for 10 incredible years. His dedication, industry knowledge & all-round contribution were integral, to say the least. Macka will remain an invaluable member of the SBIA Board.

With Macka passing the prestigious SBIA Presidency torch, we are very pleased to announce the appointment of Michael ‘Heathy’ Heath, Chief Executive Officer of Surf Hardware International (and SBIA Member), who was elected the new SBIA President at last week’s AGM. Heathy says “The industry is in great shape right now and I’m really looking forward to working with the SBIA Board, our members and other key stakeholders to drive its continued growth and development.” Although no stranger to the SBIA Board, everyone is stoked to have Heathy at the helm for the next phase of the SBIA.  

We are also very pleased to announce the appointment of Sanbah Surf Shop Owner, Rhys Smith, who was elected the newest SBIA Retail Board Member. Rhys is looking forward to working with the SBIA as one of our Board Members saying “I am excited to be included on the SBIA Board & look forward to working with an amazing group of industry leaders“. Similarly, the SBIA look forward to Rhys’ contribution over the course of his two year term which will no doubt contribute significantly to the continual promotion and enhancement of our industry.
   
Keep an eye out in coming weeks as we sit down with Macka to get an insight on his 10 year tenure. We’ll also be getting to know Michael and Rhys a little more as we delve into their career highlights and industry backgrounds.

 

Following is the current SBIA Board of Management:

President: Michael ‘Heathy’ Heath – CEO, Surf Hardware International

Vice President: Alison Thomas – General Manager, Volcom AU/NZ

Secretary /Treasurer: Damian Campbell – Head of Sales, Boardriders

Board Member: Anthony “Macka” Wilson – Saltwater Wine | Stormriders, NSW

Board Member: Rhys Smith – Owner, Sanbah Surf

Board Member: Neil Ritchie – Alto Sports

Independent Board Member: Brian Walker – CEO, Retail Doctor Group

Executive Officer: Lyndall Browning

Administration & Digital Assistant: Jenna Halcro-Dirks