Strand Stories - Concrete Lines

After spending close to nine years in their skate shop in Wharf Street, Tweed Heads, the pair packed up and opened their flagship store at The Strand 18 months ago, making the transition to Coolangatta’s main thoroughfare.   

“Being part of the lifestyle and the culture here is the best part about being in Coolangatta,” said Les. “Skateboarding is a big part of the lifestyle around these suburbs and we’re in the perfect position here to capture that,” he said.

Selling their extensive range of skateboards, longboards, clothing, shoes and accessories, the expanded, streetside retail outlet has helped to build the profile of skateboarding within the general community as well as attract a strong following of locals from the skate scene. 

“Our customers’ response to the new shop has been amazing,” says Mel. “It’s very rewarding to have people ask if they can take pictures of the board walls or the skateboard light at the entrance!”

While customers may be drawn in by the colourful skate decks lining the timber racks, or the suspended footwear offering a unique take on a shoe window display, it’s the people at Concrete Lines that will guarantee you walk out with a smile.

With either Mel or Les always present in the business, their knowledge, drive and passion for what they do is undeniable, and they lead a team of young skaters that share their vision to make skateboarding accessible to everyone.

Part of their vision is also to support young skaters to develop useful skills for the work force through a traineeship. Fifteen-year-old Zane Bonser is about to complete a Certificate III in Retail while still at school and working at Concrete Lines. The traineeship has motivated him to pursue his schooling while learning the ropes of working in retail. Zane is passionate about downhill longboarding and will be racing in a few events early next year. 

“It’s great for Zane and for our business, too – we get feedback about his outstanding customer service every day,” says Les. 

Mel and Les aim to be at the forefront of the industry with the latest brands and gear hitting the shelves on a regular basis. The new stand up longboard – The Big Kahuna – has arrived and is sure to be a hit out on the streets this summer.

They like to make sure they’ve got what their customers are looking for – even if they don’t know it yet!
Concrete Lines is open at The Strand at Coolangatta Monday to Saturday from 9.00am to 5.30pm, and Sunday from 10.00am to 4.00pm.   We actually stay open until 7.00pm on Thursdays.