Surfing NSW is proud to announce the launch of its new Surfing Mental Health 360 program on the eve of R U OK? Day.

Surfing Mental Health 360 is a surf community-driven program connecting boardriders clubs, surf schools and high schools in communities affected by drought, bushfires and Covid-19.
 
As part of the program, Surfing NSW has teamed up with five Surfing Mental Health organisations – Batyr, Waves of Wellness, The Good Human Factory, Man Anchor and The Rise Foundation – who will all be working together through the sport of surfing with a holistic view to create awareness and provide ongoing referrals and support pathways.
 
Surfing Mental Health 360 is jointly funded by The NSW Mental Health Sports Fund, CommBank South Coast Bushfire Relief Grant and Randwick City clubGRANTS.
 
Minister for Mental Health Bronnie Taylor launched the initiative at Surfing NSW headquarters at Maroubra Beach today. She said the ‘Surfing Mental Health 360’ program will deliver programs aimed at boosting the mental health and wellbeing in communities impacted by drought.
 
“This community-driven program is connecting boardriders’ clubs, surf schools and high schools to trusted mental health organisations that can help them build their mental fitness from the ground up,” Mrs Taylor said.

“Surfing has a great way of bringing people from all walks of life together and this program will empower them to have the right conversations about improving their wellbeing and knowing when it’s time to put their hand up for help.”

Surfing NSW CEO Luke Madden stated: “Surfing NSW recognises the vital role that surfing can play in preventing, treating, educating and supporting sufferers of mental illness. In partnership with these fantastic mental health service partners mentioned above, this project is tailored to regional communities who suffer mental health issues.”

This project demonstrates a valuable, collaborative and cost-effective way to deliver health care by enabling boardriders clubs and surf schools to be on the ground with the mental health first aid accreditation and knowledge to support. 
 
The team at Batyr will attend high schools across the coast to discuss mental health amongst teenagers while Man Anchor and Rise Foundation are accrediting first aiders within our affiliated boardriders clubs to provide initial support to other adults who may be experiencing a mental health problem and the team at WOW are offering ocean therapy to our affiliated surf schools.

 
More information on Surfing Mental Health 360 can be seen at surfingnsw.com.au