WOW IN THE MEDIA
Sharing Stories of Healing, Community &
the Power of the Ocean
At Waves of Wellness (WOW), we believe in the ocean’s ability to transform mental health and we’re proud to see this impact recognised across news outlets, podcasts, radio, and storytelling platforms around Australia.
This page brings together media features that spotlight our programs, our participants, and the growing movement of surf therapy. From heartfelt interviews to national news segments, each piece helps us spread awareness, reduce stigma, and inspire more people to seek support through connection, community, and the healing force of the sea.
Disclaimer: All featured videos, articles, and media content are the property of their respective owners and are used here for informational and promotional purposes. Waves of Wellness (WOW) does not claim copyright over this content.
FEATURED INTERVIEWS & VIDEOS
WOW Featured on Sunrise
We were proud to share the power of surf therapy on Sunrise, showcasing how the ocean, community and safe conversations are helping people improve their mental health.
The Living Room
x WOW
WOW was featured on Channel 10's The Living Room show as part of Mental Health Month 2021. It was great to spend some time in the 'green room' with Dr. Chris Brown and showcase some of our awesome participants, facilitators and volunteers.
WOW ON
CHANNEL 10 PERTH
Waves of Wellness is making waves in Perth! Our Channel 10 segment highlights our program and showcases interviews with our Perth facilitators.
Movember x waves of wellness
In 2019 with Movember, Waves of Wellness teamed up to shine a light on men’s mental health and the power of community.
In this video, we explore how surf therapy provides a safe, supportive space for men to open up, connect, and improve their wellbeing - one wave at a time.
WOW x Lindsay Lohan
We were stoked to have Lindsay Lohan share her support for Waves of Wellness and help shine a spotlight on the importance of mental health and surf therapy.
In this light-hearted interview, she speaks about why WOW’s work matters and how accessible, community-based programs can make a real difference for people doing it tough.
Making waves in mental health with WESTPAC
We’re honoured to be featured by Westpac, highlighting how Waves of Wellness is delivering innovative, accessible mental-health support through surf therapy.
The story shares the impact of our programs, real participant experiences, and how connection, community and the ocean are helping people rebuild confidence and wellbeing.
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featured articles
28 January 2023
Joel took a career risk that could have seen his 'head on the chopping block'. It paid off.
SBS News features Joel Pilgrim, founder of Waves of Wellness, and his bold approach of combining surfing with mental health support. WOW’s programs use the ocean to build confidence, wellbeing, and resilience, helping thousands across diverse communities including veterans, at-risk youth, and First Nations people.
23 March 2022
Waves Of Wellness Has Just Launched In Perth, Where Mental Health And Surfing Combine
Perth is Ok showcases Waves of Wellness arrival in Perth!
Facilitator Amelia Polinelli highlights how the program empowers participants, reduces stigma, and creates meaningful connection beyond casual social groups.
27 November 2018
Surf therapy offering hope, healing and a different approach to mental health treatment.
ABC News highlights how surf therapy blends surfing with guided mental health support to help people manage anxiety, depression and trauma in a non-clinical, empowering way.
It shows the strength of connection, movement and the ocean, and includes Layne Beachley’s powerful reflection that surfing “kept her alive” and continues to cleanse her mind, body and soul.
28 October 2023
Wollongong's Waves of Wellness providing mental health support through surfing therapy
ABC News showcases WOW’s Wollongong programs, emphasizing how surf therapy combines mental health guidance with real-time ocean experiences. Unlike traditional approaches, participants work through stress, anxiety, and self-esteem challenges on the waves, guided by trained facilitators in a natural, supportive setting.
29 January 2025
Wave Pool Backs Diversity with Melbourne Programs
We’re proud to be featured in WavePoolMag for our commitment to diversity and inclusion in surfing.
The article highlights how programs like ours create safe, welcoming spaces for people from all backgrounds — including those with disabilities, First Nations communities, and under-represented groups — to experience the physical, social, and mental benefits of surfing.
WOW On the Radio
radio sen 1170fm
triple m 107.7fm
2HD RADIO NEWCASTLE
6PR RADIO
ABC RADIO
Want to feature WOW?
We’d love to work with you! Get in touch here to explore media opportunities and share our life-changing surf therapy programs with your audience.