Philip: A Life on the Water and a Passion for Adventure
Philip Johnston, 37, calls Perth home, though his heart often leads him to the waters around Coffs Harbour, where his family resides. Raised in the Hills District of Sydney, Philip is a Navy veteran, having served for 13 years with multiple overseas deployments. His love for watersports, travel, and motorsports has shaped his adventurous spirit, with a life lived both on land and at sea.
Journey Beginnings: Discovering a Passion for Watersports
Growing up near the water, Philip’s love for it was inevitable. His early memories of summers spent in Coffs Harbour introduced him to bodyboarding, and soon after, friends with boats exposed him to tubing and waterskiing. “The beach was always the go-to,” Philip recalls, “and that connection to the water just stuck.” While he hasn’t skied in a while, his next goal is to master wakeboarding. Living in Perth, where the conditions are ideal for watersports, Philip’s passion has grown. He’s been paddleboarding since 2018, and in 2023, he bought a new jet ski, expanding his ability to explore the waters throughout the warmer months.
Jobe Experience: A Watersports Essential
Philip relies on Jobe products for his time on the water, particularly their PFDs (personal flotation devices). His go-to is the Jobe Fragment, but he keeps a few others on hand for friends who join him on his jet ski. He also uses a Jobe kneeboard and a Jobe Neoprene Jacket—perfect for staying comfortable during long days on the water. The durability, comfort, and style of Jobe gear have made a significant difference in his watersports experiences.
Enhancing the Experience: Comfort and Durability
For Philip, comfort is key, and Jobe products deliver. “The Jobe PFD is so comfortable that even after hours on the water, I don’t feel the need to take it off,” he says. Whether he’s speeding across the water on his jet ski or simply lounging in the water, the fit and feel of the Jobe gear make it easy to enjoy long days out. Having tried more expensive alternatives, Philip is confident that Jobe offers the best combination of comfort and quality at competitive prices.
A Memorable Moment on the Water
One of Philip’s most memorable experiences happened in February 2024 in Perth. It was a rare calm afternoon, with no sign of the usual Freo Doctor winds, so Philip and his mates decided to head out for a jet ski ride. Passing by Shoalwater Marine Park, they spotted a group of seals playing near Seal Island. “We anchored up and spent the afternoon snorkelling with the seals. It’s a moment we still talk about a lot—it was one of those perfect days.”
Why Jobe? Features That Stand Out
When it comes to Jobe products, Philip appreciates the blend of style, comfort, and longevity. “You pay for what you get, and Jobe delivers,” he says. The extensive research and development that goes into Jobe’s products, along with their great product support, ensure he’s always getting high-quality gear that enhances his time on the water.
Advice for Beginners: Embrace the Wipeouts
Philip’s advice for those new to watersports is simple: “Get amongst it, and don’t be afraid to fall in. Half the fun is in the wipeouts, and those are the moments you’ll laugh about later.” For him, watersports are about enjoying the process, even when things don’t go perfectly.
Preparation and Rituals: Ready for the Water
Living just five minutes from his favourite spots on the water, Philip’s preparation is minimal. He often checks the boat ramp and water conditions after his morning coffee, and if everything looks good, he’s out on the water. His easygoing approach reflects his love for spontaneous adventure—when the water calls, he’s ready to go.
Inspiration and Growth: The Impact of Watersports
For Philip, being on the water offers a sense of calm and connection with nature. Living in Perth, he regularly encounters dolphins and seals, and the beauty of the surroundings never fails to inspire him. “On a clear summer day, there’s no better place to be than out on the water. It’s a great way to reset, and the marine life always keeps things interesting.”
Watersports have also connected Philip to a broader community. Whether it’s through the local jet ski community or introducing friends to paddleboarding, watersports have opened up new friendships and experiences. “I love taking friends out on the jet ski or paddleboard—it’s a simple way to enjoy life and share the joy of being out on the water.”
Philip’s passion for watersports is evident in every aspect of his life. From snorkelling with seals to mastering new skills on his jet ski, he embraces every opportunity to explore the water and share that excitement with others. With Jobe gear by his side, he’s always ready for the next adventure.
