Donate: Simon Buttonshaw's Cancer Battle

Stu Nettle picture
Stu Nettle (stunet)
Swellnet Dispatch

Maybe you haven't heard the name Simon Buttonshaw, yet if so you've unknowingly seen his work.

Simon designed many of the early logos and motifs used by the Vicco-based surf industry - think Rip Curl, Quiksilver, Wayne Lynch Surfboards, Beach Crew, Roar, Gash...who could forget Gash!...and more recently the logo for Shyama Buttonshaw Designs.

Once a lord of surf and street wear, now a humble man in sensible shoes and a puffer jacket

Simon's artistic DNA runs through the Aussie surf industry. It still does, as many of the logos he created way back when remain in use today.

More than a paintbrush for hire, Simon also produced many of the concepts and campaigns that gave shape to the Aussie surf industry, so feted for its originality and spirit.

Three days ago Simon's daughter Kevala announced Simon's medical condition on a Go Fund Me page. For a guy who's lived a wholesome and healthy life - Simon's been practicing yoga since 1970 and a vegetarian for almost as long - he's copped the veritable rough end of the pineapple: two cancers, bowel and lung, with Kevala saying he has a "long challenging battle ahead."

As per the page:

It is with heavy hearts that we ask for your support for our father Simon Buttonshaw.

Simon has been an integral part of the surf community shaping its artistic identity through his contributions and his own artwork over the years. From fostering creativity to helping build the unique surf culture we all cherish and love today.

Unfortunately Simon has recently been diagnosed with both bowel and lung cancer, and has a long challenging battle ahead of him. He will be receiving cancer treatment at Geelong Hospital, and staying close by is essential for his care.

As Simon lives in a remote part of SA, he will need to cover the cost of relocating and renting accommodation nearer the hospital along with his two beloved dogs. This will ensure he is also close to his family so that they can provide all the support he will need.

We are asking for help to cover these expenses so that Simon can focus on his health and treatment.

Every donation - no matter how big or small - means the world to us. All funds will go directly to the cost of accommodation and other essential needs to support Simon during this difficult time. Also if anyone knows of or has appropriate accommodation to rent please let us know.

Thank you for taking the time to read this and for your generosity and please share.

With love

Kevala, Raphael, Shyama, Arjuna, and Prahlad

Comments

Tris's picture
Tris's picture
Tris Wednesday, 29 Jan 2025 at 7:39am

A local legend , amazing artist and a wonderful philosopher of life…
Please donate x

BBrowny's picture
BBrowny's picture
BBrowny Wednesday, 29 Jan 2025 at 11:07am

Legend alright. Amazingly talented guy with lots of history and yet always humble. Simon's a gem and I hope he comes out the other side of this thing.

memlasurf's picture
memlasurf's picture
memlasurf Wednesday, 29 Jan 2025 at 11:19am

You didn't mention he's not a real bad surfer either. When I was in my teens he was the man to watch at winki. You do all the right things and the big C can still get you. I wish him the best of luck.

zenagain's picture
zenagain's picture
zenagain Wednesday, 29 Jan 2025 at 11:43am

All the best Simon.

Chipped in a little for dog food.