Here we learn about an internationally and Australia-trained surfboard shaper, Rodrigo Arguello, who was so keen to get a surf-related trade that he volunteered to clean the toilets and sweep the floor in a surfboard manufacturers back in Brazil 23 years ago, and he has since progressed to become the exclusive contractor for Lightning Bolt boards in Australia. He moved to Australia 9 years ago, with a mere $160 to his name, and a Brazilian surfing reputation which meant little over here. 2 years later he started his own business and gradually built up his credibility as a fantastic surfboard shaper, meaning that today his skills are in hot demand up and down the coast. Rodrigo's skills have even given him the flexibility to travel around the globe!

We watch Rodrigo in the video work on boards at different stages in the manufacturing process. He designs the board using computer design program, then a computer-guided precision blade cuts out the shape needed from the original blank, which gives Rod the basic board shape which he now hand crafts and finishes. He says that he can do one board in half a day.

Rodrigo's story is proof that passion, hard-work, flexibility and commitment can get you where you want to be!

Surfie jargon: Rod bases his designs on the height, weight and experience of the surfer, and whether the rider is 'natural' or 'goofy'. Natural refers to the right foot being at the back of the board, whilst goofy is the right foot at the front of the board. This isn't based on handedness (in fact left-handed people are often natural, and right handers goofy!) Kelly Slater can surf comfortably both ways!