‘Finding Wellness’

The WOW Surfing Experience (WOWSE) is an eight-week evidence based learn-to-surf program for people experiencing mental health issues. It facilitates functional recovery, while promoting social inclusion, engagement and enhanced quality of life. The primary focus of the program is to introduce surfing to participants as a way to improve physical health, mental health and well- being in a neutral, non-intrusive environment. The program uses the ocean and surfing as a conduit to explore, stimulate and facilitate positive therapy outcomes.

The WOW Surfing Experience umbrella includes the following specialised programs for:

  • Adult Mental Health

  • Mental Health for Young People

  • Grief and Loss

  • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples

  • Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) & Experiences of Trauma

  • Emergency Services Personnel

  • Women’s Health

  • LGBTQIA+

  • Refugees

  • Newly Arrived Migrants

  • Active & Former Service Defence Personnel

The program is facilitated by mental health clinicians who are also trained in learn-to-surf instructing. Each program is supported by volunteers, which strengthens inclusion and social connection. Each week, the program addresses a different mental health theme allowing participants to learn new skills and strategies through lived experience storytelling and connection with like-minded individuals. Clinical expertise facilitates functional recovery and meaningful connection.

A therapeutic graded approach is utilised to promote recovery in a supported environment rather than overwhelming participants. Through involvement in this program, participants gain the opportunity to learn how to use surfing as a coping strategy for their mental health.

ONE-OFF SESSIONS:

KINGS BEACH, SUNSHINE COAST, QLD
Friday 12th April, 2024, 6:30 - 8:30 am - Youth aged 12-17 years. Part of QLD Youth Week 2024.

CONSECUTIVE 8-WEEK PROGRAMS BEGIN:

WANDA BEACH, CRONULLA, NSW
Wednesday 8th May, 2024, 7:00 - 9:00 am - Women’s Mental Health Support. Proudly funded by Sutherland Shire Council.

Wednesday 8th May, 2024, 9:30 - 11:30 am - Young Adults (18-25 years) Mental Health. Proudly funded by Sutherland Shire Council.

BONDI BEACH, BONDI, NSW
Tuesday 7th May, 2024, 9:30 - 11:30 am - Women’s Mental Health Support. Proudly funded by Liptember Foundation.

MANLY BEACH, NORTHERN BEACHES, NSW
Thursday 9th May, 2024, 9:30 - 11:30 am - Young Adults (18-25 years) Mental Health. Proudly funded by Community Capital Foundation.

NOBBY’S BEACH, NEWCASTLE, NSW
Tuesday 7th May, 2024, 7:00 - 9:00 am - Current and Former Defence Personnel. Proudly funded by RSL QLD.

NOOSA BEACH, SUNSHINE COAST, QLD
Thursday 2nd May, 2024, 6:30 - 8:30 am - Current and Former Defence Personnel. Proudly funded by RSL QLD.

Thursday 2nd May, 2024, 9:00 - 11:00 am - Young Adults (18-25 years) Mental Health. Proudly funded by Noosa Shire Council.

KIRRA BEACH, GOLD COAST, QLD
Wednesday 1st May, 2024, 9:00 - 11:00 am - Current and Former Defence Personnel. Proudly funded by RSL QLD.

URBNSURF MELBOURNE, VIC
Tuesday 30th April, 2024, 5:00 - 7:00 pm - Youth (12-17 years) Mental Health. Proudly funded by Hume City Council.

Thursday 2nd May, 2024, 9:00 - 11:00 am - Young Adults (18-25 years) Mental Health. Proudly funded by Hume City Council.

BRIGHTON BEACH, PERTH, WA
Tuesday 30th April, 2024, 6:30 - 8:30 am - Women’s Mental Health Support. Proudly funded by WA Department of Local Government, Sport, & Cultural Industries.

Tuesday 30th April, 2024, 9:00 - 11:00 am - Young Adults (18-25 years) Mental Health. Proudly funded by WA Department of Local Government, Sport, & Cultural Industries.

Note: If are registering for a program and don’t see the day/time you want, the program may be full. In this form, please select ‘yes’ to be added to the waitlist so we can notify you if a place becomes available.

For more information about our programs, or to enquire about booking a program, contact us.