Salt water flows in her veins

Sharon Jackson, owner of Da Bomb Surf Centre and Museum loves to share her passion for surfing.

Kari Bourne

"THERE is nothing better than 'splitting a peak' with family," surfer Sharon Jackson says.

The 49-year-old owner of Da Bomb Surf Centre and Museum in Maroochydore has spent her life chasing waves all over the world - from Indonesia and America to Hawaii and New Zealand.

But she is adamant nothing beats a home break.

When Sharon began surfing 30 years ago, she said "it was tough being a girl out in the ocean".

"I copped a bit of grief at school from the boys," she said.

"Once it is in your blood, you have no choice."

But now she revels in the popularity of the water sport and the recognition women now receive.

Over the years, she has placed well in competitions all over the world but her prized moment was coming second in the Bells Beach Classic in 1982.

Her bell trophy is on display in the surfing museum in her Plaza Parade store.

There, you will be able to check out surfing memorabilia from the Coast and abroad including old photos, surfboards, trophies, surf posters, Long board Island Laga beer and old-school wax.

You can also find everything to suit your modern-day surfing and beach needs.

The Alexandra Headland woman ventured into the surfwear and equipment industry because she thought big franchise stores lacked personal service and knowledge about all things surfing.

Sharon said she did not stock major labels, instead opting to promote independent labels and designers.

"I wanted to give back to the surfing industry because it has given a lot to me," she said.

Da Bomb has been set up as a traditional surf shop by catering for the needs of the raw beginner right through to the experienced competitive surfboard rider including the surf enthusiast.

Sharon believes she was always destined to live a life in the water.

Before she could even walk, her father had her on his shoulders water skiing and then on a surfboard.

She said she loved to encourage people to be active in the water, whether that be through surfing or other pursuits.

"It is a really good way of life," she said.

Sharon and her husband Nigel still surf together regularly and occasionally are joined by their two children.

She said she still participated in competitions and could match it with surfers of any age.

"I work hard to stay in shape," she said.

"But I do it because I love surfing."

• Da Bomb Surf Centre and Museum is at 3/25 Plaza Pde Maroochydore.
• Phone 5451 0620 or visit www.dabombsurf.com.au.

SURFBOARD EVOLUTION

• Ancient: Wiliwili Wood
• 1700: Koa Wood
• 1920: Red Wood
• 1930: Paddleboard
• 1950: "Pig" Balsa
• 1960: Fibreglass
• 1967: Transitional
• 1970: Single fin
• 1980: Thruster