Not for Profit of the Year 2026

Being recognized in our local community always means a lot to us. Taking home the Not-for-Profit Award at the Torquay Business Awards for the second year running is a welcome nod to the work our team, volunteers, and supporters put in every week.

When people think of Ocean Mind, they usually picture surfboards, wetsuits, and morning sessions on the beach. But getting a young person into the water involves a lot more than just showing up with a board.

For many young people dealing with mental health challenges, disability, or social isolation, the biggest hurdles happen before they even touch the sand. Finding a ride, having the right gear, or simply feeling overwhelmed by a new environment can stop participation before it starts.

Co Ceo’s Ben & Rachael accept the award for not-for-profit of the year.

That’s why our focus has always been on removing those practical friction points. Providing transport, supplying warm wetsuits, and pairing every young person one-on-one with a dedicated mentor means they have a consistent, safe entry point to try something new.

Alongside that practical support is a commitment to doing things properly. We don’t guess whether our programs are helping—we measure it. Through an ongoing partnership with Deakin University, we track the real-world impact of our surf therapy and youth mentoring programs. That evidence helps us understand what works, refine how we deliver our sessions, and ensure young people are getting genuine, long-term value out of their time with us.

An award like this isn't just about Ocean Mind as an organisation. It belongs to the mentors who show up early on cold mornings, the families who trust us with their young people, and the local community that keeps our vans running and our gear room stocked.

To everyone who supports what we do—thank you. We're looking forward to another big year on the beach.

Want to get involved? Learn more about volunteering as a mentor or supporting our programs through our website.