What happens when a passion for skateboarding meets a life of public service? Join us as we navigate the fascinating journey of John Bogaerts, a former professional skateboarder turned dedicated police officer. Along with his close-knit friends Mike Cossettini and Sean Mussett, known affectionately as Gravel Burns, John takes us back to the birth of the Newcastle skateboarding scene. From the early days at Bar Beach in 1979, where fiberglass quarter pipes first made their mark, to the vibrant community that blossomed from these beginnings, we reminisce about the friendships and experiences that defined this era.

We explore the impact of missions to the USA, and icons like Lee Ralph and Gregor Rankin on Newcastle's skating standards. John shares stories of regular road trips to Mona Vale vert ramp, the sheer excitement of competing at the infamous Ridge Street ramp in Mereweather, and then the iconic Bowl-a-rama events at Bondi many years later against the likes of Tony Hawk, Steve Caballero and Kevin Staab.

This episode is somewhat of a heartfelt exploration of the many facets of a skater's life, including John's transition to law enforcement and the eventual reconnection to his skateboarding roots. John discusses the thrill of premier skate facilities emerging from bold visions and the camaraderie of community-driven events like the Australian Bowl Riding Championships.

There's a full video production this week in which John shares never before seen archival pictures and footage. Worth a watch.

Enjoy,
Shan

This episode is brought to you by Coackroach Wheels.

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What began as an idea and progressed to testing in 1986, Cockroach set the benchmark for the skater-made and operated business. Cocky was fully dedicated to creating the finest urethane that Aussies could buy as well as sponsoring some of our hottest skaters; O.G shredders like Adrian Jones, John Gray, Johnny McGrath, Michael Mulhall, Sac Reynolds, Warren Archer, Micha

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Join us as we chat with the charismatic Aaron Brown, whose skateboarding photography defined the Australian scene throughout the 90s and beyond. Discover how Aaron's early skateboarding roots continue to influence his artistic vision, and why he remains devoted to the depth and tonal richness of film photography despite the lure of digital.

Aaron takes us on a nostalgic ride through the skateboarding communities of Sydney's North West, celebrating the camaraderie and creative sparks that shaped his career. He reflects on the evolution of skate photography, contrasting the technical challenges of film with the convenience of digital formats. He reminisces about iconic magazines and photographers who inspired his unique style, how he was able to generate a liveable income from shooting skate photos alone, working for mainstream media companies, and the creative projects he has invested in since.

From capturing legendary skaters like Matt Mumford to winning unexpected photography awards, Aaron’s stories are a testament to the unpredictable yet rewarding nature of life and art.

Shoutout to this week's guest co-host Jim Turvey!

Enjoy,
Shan

THT gets by with a little help from these friends...

(Intro) Music by Def Wish Cast.
Song: Forever
Album: The Evolution Machine
www.defwishcast.com.au
https://defwishcastofficial.bandcamp.com/

BREATHEEZE - Breathe Better. Breathe Easy. Breathe Right.
(Click here for 15% off)
Or Coupon Code: THT
Tired and frustrated by blocked airways? Picture the freedom of easy breathing and unlock your full potential with our nasal strips and mouth tape!

INDOSOLE - Sustainable footwear
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Code: THT
(Get a HUGE 40% Discount...shipping is WORLDWIDE and fast).
Purveyors of the finest CBD oils and topicals. I think long and hard about who I want to be affiliated with. Do the research yourself, the health benefits of CBD are unquestionable. It’s done so much for me, especially during times of stress and anxiety, it’s improved the quality of my sleep and sped up my recovery-time post workouts, surfs and skates... and it’s all natural.

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From crafting surfboards in his parents’ West Pennant Hills garage, to becoming a renowned skateboard manufacturer with his brand Omni Boards, Cary Pogson takes us on an extraordinary journey through his life so far. Alongside this week's co-host, and journalist, Jim Turvey, we explore Cary's passion for supporting local skateboarders and his commitment to preserving Australian manufacturing in the face of global competition.

Cary breaks down the craftsmanship involved in skateboard production, emphasising the importance of quality materials and the balance between traditional methods and modern techniques. Cary candidly shares the lessons learned from producing boards for other brands and his journey back to reviving the Omni brand once again.

We reflect on his challenges and triumphs. Cary highlights his ongoing efforts to nurture the next generation of skaters as a key motivation for the vision of Omni.

Cary and the Omni Boards legacy is vast. It is one of dedication to craft, community and culture, a reminder that passion holds more value than profit. Always.

Enjoy,
Shan

THT gets by with a little help from these friends...

(Intro) Music by Def Wish Cast.
Song: Forever
Album: The Evolution Machine
www.defwishcast.com.au
https://defwishcastofficial.bandcamp.com/

BREATHEEZE - Breathe Better. Breathe Easy. Breathe Right.
(Click here for 15% off)
Or Coupon Code: THT
Tired and frustrated by blocked airways? Picture the freedom of easy breathing and unlock your full potential with our nasal strips and mouth tape!


INDOSOLE - Sustainable footwear
Code: THT
(15% discount shipping is WORLDWIDE and fast).
Sandals made from recycled Tyres. Timeless footwear for the conscious consumer.

KRUSH ORGANICS - CBD oils and topicals
Code: THT
(Get a HUGE 40% Discount...shipping is WORLDWIDE and fast).
Purveyors of the finest CBD oils and topicals. I think long and hard about who I want to be affiliated with. Do the research yourself, the health benefits of CBD are unquestionable. It’s done so much for me, especially during times of stress and anxiety, it’s improved the quality of my sleep and sped up my recovery-time post workouts, surfs and skates... and it’s all natural.

Breatheeze - Breathe Right!
Breathe Better. Breathe Easy. Breathe Right. (Click here for 15% off)
Or use Coupon Code: THT at checkout!

Support the show

Become a SUBSCRIBER of THT. Only pay what you feel the show is worth to you!
Follow on Instagram: @terriblehappytalks
Checkout the website: terriblehappytalks.com