Maddog | John Morgan on Surf, Community and Giving Back in Byron Bay

In this episode, we sit down with John Morgan - better known around town as Maddog - to explore his decades-long connection with Byron Bay, from the early surf scene to community service and everything in between.

John moved from Brisbane to Byron Bay in 1976 at just 19 years old, landing his first job at the local meat works. He takes us back to what the town was like in those early years - the people, the energy, and how he was welcomed by the local community. 

Over the years, John’s journey has taken many turns. After studying at university to prepare for a more “traditional” career, he quickly realised corporate life wasn’t for him. He returned to Byron and stepped back into the surf shop where he shaped boards, and became the manager. By 1983, he’d bought the store, named it Maddog after his own nickname, and began growing the business - expanding from surfboards into clothing and other surf lifestyle products across multiple shops.

Today, John is still deeply involved in the Byron community, serving as the president of Liberation Larder - an organisation rescuing surplus food and turning it into meals for those in need. He shares how the work brings people together, and the sense of meaning that comes from giving back.

This is a story of surfing, service, and staying true to your roots - with one of Byron Bay’s most iconic locals.

To learn more about Liberation Larder head to their website - https://www.liberationlarder.org/

If you’d like to share your story or provide feedback, please contact us via email at chrishanley@byronbayfn.com