Malakai Carson

Old Bar, NSW – Now based in Coolangatta, QLD

I’m Malakai, 15, born and raised in Old Bar on the mid-north coast of NSW. I come from both Maltese and Wiradjuri heritage and grew up in a loud, loving family. My surfing journey began at 3, when Dad first pushed me into waves at Crowdy Head. Locals couldn’t believe how young I was out the back, but the ocean has always been my happy place. I got my first fibreglass board at 5 and joined Saltwater Boardriders – Salty Point quickly became my go-to break. In 2023, we left our little acreage in Old Bar – swapped bonfires and motorbikes for the Gold Coast. It was a big shift, but one I made to chase bigger dreams. I’m now at Palm Beach Currumbin Sports High, juggling school, training, and chasing every swell. If I’m not at Snapper or Dbah, I’m probably cruising the coast on my E-bike with the crew. I’m proud of my roots, and my family has always backed me to step outside my comfort zone. I want to keep exploring, travelling, and pushing my surfing as far as I can.

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LIFE MOTTO

“If in doubt, paddle out.”

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS

  • Wildcard into the Australian Junior Surfing Titles
  • Finalist – Billabong Oz Grom Cup
  • 4th Place – Yeti National Junior Online Comp

PLANS FOR 2025

This year I’m focused on levelling up my surfing. I’m doing weekly coaching with Jade Wheatley and salt performance training with Marco’s. Keen to get my jetski licence and log some hours on the ski, especially for step-offs.Trips-wise, I’m planning to hit Bali and head back to G-Land – last time was nuts, and I’m keen for round two. Biggest goal is to keep surfing, learning, and finding new waves.

THE MAD HUEYS Q & A

1. MOST MEMORABLE SURF:
G-Land, Indonesia. The waves were pumping, the energy was wild, and I was honestly shitting bricks out there – but I loved it. Keen to get back with Dad again soon.

2. MOST MEMORABLE FISH CAUGHT:
Need an invite on The Animal 7 so I can tick this one off the list. Hahaha

3. MOST MEMORABLE PARTY (CELEBRATION):
Still waiting for my most memorable party... I’ll have to get back to you on that one!