Bikini briefs by Billabong, Pool rules, Stripe pattern, Regular rise, Brief cut. In 1973, Billabong founders Gordon and Rena Merchant started crafting and selling board shorts to surf shops on Australias Gold Coast. Thanks to the durable, triple-stitching technique they used, their designs became go-tos for local surfers, and the rest is history. Take a look at our edit of the brands surf, swim and beachwear its swimsuits and bikinis are always board-ready.