Community Programs
Ocean Mind offers free community programs to young people aged 8 to 18. Head to our program model to see how it works.
Six Week Swell
The Six Week Swell program – our 6-week introductory therapeutic surfing experience dedicated to nurturing skills and boosting confidence among young people aged 8 - 18.
Over the course of 6 weeks, participants spend 2 hours a week at the beach with our expert team.
The sessions maintain a 1:1 support ratio, allowing participants to progress at their own pace.
Our primary focus is on building self-efficacy and resilience and forging connections. Best of all, these programs are accessible to all young people, completely free of charge.
The Ocean Mind Surf Club
Each week Ocean Mind runs Surf Club for all the 6-week program graduates. This is a chance for participants to continue learning to surf and catching up with mentors.
There are different mentors each week that come to Surf Club. You will have a chance to meet lots of different mentors and young people. You will be matched with a small group of participants and a mentor.
To book in just use the booking code you will be sent once you have completed your 6 week swell program.
Impact Areas
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Growth in personal confidence and self-efficacy in and out of the water, with young people more willing to get out of their comfort zone and face new challenges.
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Feeling supported, valued and cared for by mentors and other group members leading to a high sense of safety.
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Improvements in physical health & fitness including healthy lifestyle (better sleep patterns, improved food intake) and increased physical resilience.
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Notable progress in developing surfing and social skills leading to a feeling of accomplishment and pride in new skills and experiences.
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High levels of fun, enjoyment and excitement throughout the program.
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Positive changes in emotional states and behaviours, including feelings of happiness, calm, joy, freedom & excitement, and self-regulation.
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Improvements in communication & social skills and willingness to engage with mentors and peers, leading to an increased sense of belonging and connection.
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Increased motivation to engage in activities and try new things; and an enhanced ability to view life with optimism, resilience, and hope.
Parents
FAQ’S
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The 6-week program is free for participants. The Surf Clubs are free.
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Ocean Mind programs run on Saturdays and Sundays both in the AM and the PM. The 6-week Swell program runs consecutively for 6 weeks. Surf Club sessions are weekly.
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Greater Geelong Region:
Ocean Grove Main Beach
Torquay / Cosy Corner
Anglesea Main Beach
Mornington Peninsula
Point Leo
Shoreham
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We attempt to support all our participants with transport if they require. Please contact the program coordinator if you require transport.
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We train local volunteers to mentor our participants. Mentors are all vetted and have a Working with Children Check and Police Check. Each program also has a paid Facilitator and Surf Instructor.
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Surf Board & Wet suit provided. If you have your own foam board or wet suit you can bring it along.
NO FIBERGLASS BOARDS please.
Transport is sometimes provided depending on staff and volunteer capacity. If transport is a barrier for you, please let us know.
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Once you have completed the 6 Week Swell program you will be sent a booking code. Use this link to book your Surf Club sessions.
If you haven't received this information please email info@oceanmind.org.au
Referers
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Referrals are made through a support worker, psychologist, mental health worker, school support worker or someone else supporting the client. Just complete the referral form.
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There is no cost to participant’s families to join in the program.
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Ocean Mind programs run from September to June each year. Your client will be offered a placement within 2 months of referral unless the referral is made over the winter period.
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Saturdays AM & PM
Sundays AM & PM
School Holiday programs are run Monday, Wednesday & Friday each week.