This week on The Temple of Surf, we are joined by a true guardian of surfing heritage: Craig Baird, the long-standing curator of the Australian National Surfing Museum in Torquay. For nearly three decades, Craig has played a pivotal role in preserving the culture, history, and soul of Australian surfing, helping transform the museum into one of the world’s most important institutions dedicated to the sport.

Craig’s journey into the surf world began early. Growing up along the coast between Barwon Heads and Ocean Grove, he picked up surfing at just 10 years old. First exploring the rivers and then paddling out into the open ocean, he quickly developed a passion that would shape the rest of his life. By the age of 15, he was already surfing with confidence and immersing himself in the local surf culture.

Straight out of school, Craig began working in the surf industry, running a surf shop and eventually honing his creative skills airbrushing t-shirts and spray-painting surfboards for major Australian brands. This hands-on experience gave him an intimate understanding of surfboard design, materials, and craftsmanship knowledge that would later prove invaluable in his role at the museum.

As curator, Craig oversees a remarkable collection of over 12,000 items, including vintage boards, photographs, memorabilia, and stories that span generations. His work isn’t just about archiving history, it’s about storytelling. Through carefully curated exhibits, Craig brings to life the pioneers of Australian surfing, the cultural revolutions of the '60s and '70s, and the local legends who shaped the waves and the community around them.

In this episode, Craig shares his personal path from being a passionate surfer and artist to becoming the caretaker of Australia’s rich surfing legacy. One of the most memorable moments of our conversation is when he reflects on the emotional connection surfers have with their boards, each one carrying a story, a moment, a memory. His deep knowledge, combined with his creative vision and passion for surf culture, make this a must-listen for anyone who loves the ocean.

Join us as we dive into the life of Craig Baird, and explore the history, heart, and hidden treasures of the Australian National Surfing Museum.

Let's discover more about him, surfing, the museum and much more! https://australiannationalsurfingmuseum.com.au