The first exhibition of surf board riding ever given in Australia took place in 1915 at Freshwater Beach. Duke Kahanamoku was the swimming sprint champion of the world and was touring Australia. He had arranged with a  Sydney firm to manufacture a surf board to his own requirements, modelled on the boards used in his native Hawaii. Don McIntyre, who at the time was the Hon. Secretary of the Surf Bathing Association, prevailed on "The Duke" to give his exhibition at Freshwater. He arrived at the beach with his surfboard in an open carriage, a great crowd of spectators had gathered. Others had tried surf board riding in Australia but none had mastered the art. His display in the surf was an eye opener to everyone. "The Duke" was a very charming person and captivated his audience with his skill.

The board became the property of Claude West, one of our members, who later donated the board to the surf club. The board is on display in the club house open to the public and is one of our most treasured possessions.