RIP Surfa Sam Founder Leo Kalokerinos

It’s with great sadness that we share the passing of Surfa Sam founder, Leo Kalokerinos, who has passed away aged 91.

Back in 1963, at just 29 years old, Leo introduced Australia’s first commercially released skateboard, helping ignite the beginnings of skate culture in this country. At the time, he might not have realised it — but he wasn’t just launching a company. He was helping light the fuse of a cultural shift, giving thousands of kids their first true taste of freedom, creativity, and self-expression.

We were fortunate to be neighbours with Leo, living just five minutes away, and to catch up with him regularly over the years. One of our favourite things was bringing him old Surfa Sam boards from the archive and hear the stories behind every intricate detail. His face would light up each time, as if being reunited with an old friend.

Though he later dedicated his life to medicine by becoming a Doctor, Leo’s passion for Surfa Sam never faded, and we’re incredibly grateful Leo was able to see Surfa Sam relaunched in his lifetime, and to know how many people still care deeply about what he created all those years ago.

To the godfather of Australian skateboarding — roll in peace.

RIP Surfa Sam Founder Leo Kalokerinos

It’s with great sadness that we share the passing of Surfa Sam founder, Leo Kalokerinos, who has passed away aged 91.

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