Thanks to the generous funding of the PMF Foundation, Ocean Mind, in collaboration with Deakin University, will deliver a volunteer-based research initiative that strengthens local capacity to evaluate the impact of surf therapy on youth mental health. The project will recruit and train volunteers including students and community members to support data collection and participant engagement under the guidance of a part-time Program Manager.

The Program Manager will oversee volunteer coordination, research ethics compliance, and project delivery, while Deakin University will provide expertise in evaluation design, data analysis, and mentorship. This initiative not only deepens understanding of the benefits of surf therapy but also builds sustainable research and program management capacity within the Surf Coast community.

This project builds local capacity to measure and strengthen the mental health outcomes of Ocean Mind’s surf therapy programs through a volunteer-led research initiative. Guided by a part-time Program Manager and supported by Deakin University, the project will train volunteers in ethical data collection, strengthen Ocean Mind’s internal evaluation capability, and generate community-owned insights.

The overall aim of the project is to refine and enhance how we measure the life-changing impact of our evidence-based surf therapy programs on young people, mentors, families, and the broader community.