This new skate part from Shaun Paul, filmed by Jonathan Fitzgerald (aka Fiddy), is a must-watch for any longboard enthusiast. It showcases not only Shaun’s impressive skills but also the unique skate scene in Melbourne, Australia. As part of the Hoddle Skateboards crew, a sister company to Pass~Port, this video is a testament to the raw talent and creative energy coming from down under.
Shaun Paul might not be a household name yet, but his skating has been featured in promotional clips for major brands like DC, Bronze, and Pangea Jeans. These affiliations should give you a good idea of the caliber of skating you’re about to witness. Expect a blend of technical prowess, smooth style, and a few unexpected twists that will make you want to grab your board and hit the streets.
Hoddle Skateboards has been making waves with videos like Heavy Mayo and their section in Pass~Port’s Kitsch. Shaun Paul’s part adds another layer to their growing legacy. It’s not just a collection of tricks, it’s a glimpse into the Melbourne skate culture, showcasing the spots, the style, and the unique slang that defines it.
Q&A with Shaun Paul: Inside the Mind of a Melbourne Skater
In a recent interview, Shaun provided insights into his skating life, the Melbourne skate scene, and his personal influences.
The “Sean Paul” Phenomenon: Shaun admitted that he has been hearing the “Sean Paul” jokes since he was ten years old, a testament to the singer’s enduring pop culture impact.
Must-See Spots for Visiting Skaters: When asked about what American skaters should check out, Shaun jokingly referenced “goon” (Australian slang for cheap boxed wine). This highlights the laid-back, fun-loving attitude of the Aussie skate scene.
Australian Skate Slang: Shaun provided a list of slang terms unique to the Australian skate scene, including “razor,” “zor,” “brental,” “skint,” and “hamie.” He explains that “skint” means a spot is bad, and “brental” means a spot is excellent.
Shaun Paul portrait
Filming the Video: While this is technically a Hoddle intro clip, it features the whole team. The filming process took about four or five months, with a few older clips sprinkled in for good measure.
About Shaun: At 24 years old, Shaun considers himself “approaching old head” and is sponsored by DC, Bronze 56k, Venture, Fast Times, and Hoddle.
Mindset: When asked about his mindset amidst the constant stream of new skate content, Shaun confessed he doesn’t know how to keep up. He prioritizes traveling, skating with friends, and making new connections.
Melbourne’s Current State: Melbourne had just come out of lockdown when this interview was conducted. Shaun noted that despite restrictions, skaters were finding ways to skate while adhering to the rules, which included two hours of exercise a day within a 5km radius, and a 9 pm curfew.
Shaun Paul smith grind
The Hoddle Grid: The name “Hoddle” comes from the Hoddle Grid, the rectangular street layout of Melbourne, which was first surveyed by Robert Hoddle in the 1800s. This grid layout influences the skate spots found on street corners, and the paths of trams crisscrossing the city.
Shaun’s Chess Skills: Shaun reveals that he plays chess online daily and is currently ranked around 800, while he acknowledges he is still improving. He openly invites other players to challenge him on chess.com (username: Shoepaul).
Shaun Paul back tail slide
Conclusion
Shaun Paul’s new skate part for Hoddle Skateboards is more than just a video; it’s a celebration of the Melbourne skate scene. With skillful filming by Jonathan Fitzgerald, the video provides a snapshot into the local culture and the unique personalities that make it thrive. From the slang to the spots, this video is a must-watch for longboarders who want to learn about skateboarding and a glimpse into what’s happening on the other side of the world. Be sure to keep up with Shaun and Hoddle for more epic content.
Video by: Jonathan Fitzgerald
Interview by: Alex Raspa
Photos by: Bryce Golder
