Surf Therapy
8-Week MeNTAL HEALTH SURF THERAPY PROGRAM
Welcome to the WOW Surfing Experience!
A free, 8-week surf therapy program designed to support your mental health and wellbeing. Each week begins with a guided group discussion led by qualified mental health facilitators, exploring practical strategies to support your mental well-being. After connecting on the sand, you'll take part in beginner-friendly learn-to-surf sessions, embracing the therapeutic power of movement and the ocean.
Our program harnesses the proven benefits of spending time in blue and green spaces, engaging in physical activity, and connecting with others, all within a safe, supportive environment free from judgment or stigma.
UPCOMING 8-WEEK SURF THERAPY PROGRAMS
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Bondi Veteran Families
📍 Bondi, NSW
🗓️ Starting Wednesday 5 August
🏝️ Every Wednesday for 8-weeks
⏰ 6:30am-8:30am
👤 Open to Family members & partners 18+ of current & former serving defence personnel -
Newcastle Veterans Families
📍 Newcastle, NSW
🗓️ Starting Tuesday 28 July
🏝️ Every Tuesday for 8-weeks
⏰ 7:00am-9:00am
👤 Open to Family members & partners 18+ of current & former serving defence personnel -
Caloundra RSL QLD Veterans
📍 Caloundra QLD
🗓️ Starting Friday 31st July
🏝️ Every Friday for 8-weeks
⏰ 6:30am-8:30am
👤 Open to Female Current and Former Serving Veterans -
Noosa RSL QLD Veterans
📍 Noosa, QLD
🗓️ Starting Thursday 30 July
🏝️ Every Thursday for 8-weeks
⏰ 6:30-8:30am
👤 Open to Current and Former Serving Veterans -
Perth Veteran Families & Partners
📍 Brighton Beach, Perth, WA
🗓️ Starting Thursday 6 August
🏝️ Every Thursday for 8-weeks
⏰ 6:30-8:30am
👤 Open to Family members & partners 18+ of current & former serving defence personnel
About OUR WOW Program
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We welcome individuals from all backgrounds, offering program streams for women's mental health, men's mental health, young people, veterans, emergency services personnel, and open mental health programs. Our sessions are designed to create a supportive and inclusive environment where everyone can feel comfortable sharing their experiences and connecting with others.
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We currently offer our surf therapy programs across four states: New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, and Western Australia. Programs are run at Bondi, Manly, URBNSurf Sydney, and Cronulla in NSW; URBNSurf Melbourne in VIC; the Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast in QLD; and Perth in WA.
We are committed to providing a variety of program streams in each state, although offerings may vary depending on session availability. For the latest updates and available programs, please check our upcoming programs section.
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In our 8-week Surf Therapy program, you'll participate in expression sessions on the beach, where we’ll explore new themes each week, including stress and problem-solving, healthy relationships, mindfulness, self-esteem, healthy living, and managing change. Stress and Problem Solving
By the end of the program, you'll have a comprehensive toolkit to help you effectively manage your mental health and navigate life’s challenges with confidence. -
Our surf therapy programs are free for all participants because we believe everyone should have access to mental health support. If you would like to express your interest in joining an upcoming program, please follow the link below, and we’ll be in touch soon!
We offer four blocks of programs each year:
Block 1: January – March
Block 2: April – June
Block 3: July – September
Block 4: October – December
If you can’t see a suitable program listed below, it may mean the program is currently full or we don’t have an upcoming session scheduled in your area.
However, you can still express your interest to be notified when a new program becomes available.
What Happens During
a WOW Session?
Each WOW session is designed to help you feel safe, supported, and empowered - no matter your surfing experience or where you’re at with your mental health journey.
Our program combines structured mental health support with movement and beginner surfing skills, creating an inclusive environment where you can explore and build your wellbeing at your own pace.
Arrival & Welcome
We’ll greet you at the designated meeting spot and help you get fitted with your surfboard and wetsuit, and introduce you to the group. Our focus is on ensuring you feel comfortable, included, and ready to engage in the experience.
Group Session
We start each session on the sand with a guided discussion led by our qualified mental health facilitators. Each week, we focus on a different wellbeing theme, offering practical tips, strategies, and a safe space to connect and share if you feel comfortable.
Learn-to-Surf
After connecting on the sand, it’s time for your beginner-friendly learn-to-surf lessons. Surfing helps process emotions, build confidence, and practice coping strategies discussed during our group sessions. If you need extra support, the ocean is the perfect place for 1-on-1 chats with facilitators.
Contact Us
If you have any questions about our programs, please get in contact with our Programs Manager at info@foundationwow.org
Dive into The Wash Up
Your Mental Health Matters
Waves of Wellness is not a crisis service, but we want to ensure you can access the right support.
If you are concerned about your safety or the safety of others, it's important to seek immediate assistance by calling Triple Zero (000).
Here are some support options available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week:
Lifeline 131 114
Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636
Kids Helpline 1800 551 800