8-Week Mental Health
Surf Therapy Program
Welcome to the WOW Surfing Experience (WOWSE), 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 take care of 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.
About the 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 and 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 relaxed one-on-one chats with facilitators.
Clara, WOW Participant
“It is one of the best experiences I have had access to. It has challenged me, opened up opportunities for me, helped support my mental and physical health, I’ve met some amazing people and have loved every session, even on hard days.”
Ready to find your wave?
Check out our upcoming programs below or register your interest today.
Upcoming 8-week Surf Therapy Programs
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Men's Suicide Prevention Program (18 + years)
📍 Bondi Beach, NSW
🗓️ Starting Wednesday, 7th May 2025
⏰ 7.00am - 9.00am
Funded by NSW Health
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For Current and Former Serving Veterans
📍 Bondi Beach, NSW
🗓️ Starting Wednesday, 7th May 2025
⏰ 9.30am - 11.30am
Funded by RSL QLD
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For Current and Former Serving Veterans
📍 URBNSURF, Tullamarine, VIC
🗓️ Starting Monday 28th April 2025
⏰ 9.00am - 11.00am
Funded by DVA / Invictus AU
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Young People’s (18-25 years) Program
📍Noosa Beach, Sunshine Coast, QLD
🗓️ Starting Thursday 1st May 2025
⏰ 6.30am - 8.30am
Funded by Maroochy RSL
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For Current and Former Serving Veterans
📍Noosa Beach, Sunshine Coast, QLD
🗓️ Starting Thursday 1st May 2025
⏰ 9.00am - 11.00am
Funded by DVA / Invictus AU
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Carers, Partners and Family of Veterans
📍King’s Beach, Sunshine Coast, QLD
🗓️ Starting Friday 2nd May 2025
⏰ 6.30am - 8.30am
Funded by DVA / Invictus AU
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For Current and Former Serving Veterans
📍King’s Beach, Sunshine Coast, QLD
🗓️ Starting Friday 2nd May 2025
⏰ 9.00am - 11.00am
Funded by RSL QLD
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Young People’s (18-25 years) Program
📍 Kirra Beach, Gold Coast, QLD
🗓️ Starting Monday 28th April 2025
⏰ 7.30am - 9.30am
Funded by QLD Gives
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Women’s Health Program (18+ years)
📍 Kirra Beach, Gold Coast, QLD
🗓️ Starting Monday 28th April 2025
⏰ 10.00am - 12.00am
Funded by QLD Gives
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Men’s Health Program (18+ years)
📍 Leighton Beach, Perth, WA
🗓️ Starting Thursday 8th May 2025
⏰ 7.00am - 9.00am
Funded by Australia Post
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For Current and Former Serving Veterans
📍 Leighton Beach, Perth, WA
🗓️ Starting Thursday 8th May 2025
⏰ 9.30am - 11.30am
Funded by Australia Post
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For Current and Former Serving Veterans
📍Avoca Beach, Central Coast, NSW
🗓️ Starting Thursday 8th May 2025
⏰ 6.30am - 8.30am
Funded by DVA / Invictus AU
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Women’s Health Program (18+ years)
📍 Ballina, Northern Rivers, NSW
🗓️ Starting Wednesday 7th May 2025
⏰ 6.30am - 8.30am
Funded by The Sunshine Foundation
Contact Us
If you have any questions about our programs, please get in contact with our Programs Manager at info@foundationwow.org
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