I am a beginner looking for an all round board.
I have close access to Talle Creek so there will be some flat water riding for fitness and as confidence grows I would like to ride the smaller waves Talle and Currumbin have to offer.
I am fairly fit and coordinated, 5'10 and about 85 kgs. From time to time the board will have a passenger ( 20kgs of dog ).
Ex demo, second hand or new board, it doesn't matter to much.
From other forums/ web sites I am keen on the
Naish Nalu 10'6
Starboard Wide Point 10'5
Blend 11'2
Drive 10'5
Any other recommendations and advice is appreciated.
Personally I don't think any of those boards are really suitable for what you want it for and your weight.
IMO the 10'5" Wide Point would be the best on your list.
DJ
They are all in the ballpark.
Im a little heavier than you and the widepoint for me was a little corky. The drive at 10'5 is in my opinion for me at least better. I'm sure you will try all three, and maybe if your dragging the hound along the 11'2 blend might suit. Try the lot in all conditions and then decide.
Try and demo some boards.. I think you will find the Nalu and Blend not suitable.
Remember do'able and enjoy'able are very different things.. 
..Demo, demo, demo.
DJ
Value for money and build quality and great if you want to take your dog try the SUPATX
I take my dog up and down Scotts Head beach catching waves on the 12 footer
eventually youll find that you will get more than one board and as you progress the supatx will always be good for fittness and small waves I started on one and know Im on a DC 8.8 but still love to take the dog out on those small days .
Ive also bought them for the surf club and the members are loving them they have even done a few rescues on them
Hey Leighton, go have a chat to Angie & Paul at Roar Industries (Currumbin) or Scotty at Greenline (Mermaid Beach) and DEMO as many boards as you can before you make a decision. Both shops are really helpful and have a good range of demo boards.
There's a whole stack of different boards available around the size you're looking at and the best way to find out what works for you is to demo. You might want also consider the Fanatic Fly 10'6 or a few of the different Surftech boards (there's too many to list). Both good brands that will hold their value if you want to upgrade down the track.
