ABOUT ME
I'm Zac, a South Coast local, and have spent more time in than out of the ocean. At a young age I learnt how to swim, and from there it was an inconsequential amount of time before I was up and ripping on my first surfboard. Whilst being a competitive swimmer most of my childhood and teenage years, I would always be running away from swim practise to go surf, my parents just couldn't keep my out of the ocean, it has always felt like home.
Since then, not much has changed, my love for the ocean has only grown, and over the past decade I've been sharing my love of it with other's through surf coaching and instructing at a variety of Surf Schools. Whilst surf instructing was always real passion for me, as a psychology student in my 3rd year, working out of a clinic and helping people overcome mental illnesses and educating them on positive wellbeing techniques is where I felt my place in the world lay.
However, everything changed when I helped set up the Veteran Surf Project (VSP), for current and ex-serving military members. From the very first session I knew I had found my calling. First hand, I got to witness the (and I don't say this lightly) life changing, and life-saving effects that surf therapy can have on people.
After two years with the VSP, I feel as though it was now time to step out and help as many people as I can in the wider community, with a focus on current and ex-serving Police and first responders through starting up this program "Waves of Thinking".
I can't wait to show you the benefits of surf therapy firsthand.

MY PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND
What Makes Me Stand Out
Surfer
As far back as I can remember, I have always been drawn to the water. I have spent countless hours lifeguarding, diving, and surfing on beaches all across Australia, and I have come to appreciate the unique beauty and power of the ocean.
Through my years of experience, I have gained a deep understanding of the ocean and its many moods. I have learned to read the waves and currents, to anticipate changes in the weather, and to always be prepared for the unexpected.
Psychology Student
As a current student of Psychology at the University of Wollongong, I have been given a unique opportunity to learn about the complexities of the human mind and the many challenges that people face in their mental health journeys.
Through my studies and personal experience, I have gained an understanding of the struggles that individuals with mental illnesses go through, as well as the effective techniques and strategies that can help them overcome their challenges.
Worked With Military Veterans
I am proud to have been a part of the team that set up the Veteran Surf Project (VSP) alongside a group of dedicated coaches. Since its inception in 2021, the VSP has been dedicated to providing a unique and powerful form of therapy for current and ex-serving military members through the power of surfing.
I am grateful to have been a part of this important initiative, and I look forward to continuing to support veterans and their families
About Our Services

Surf Therapy
Our program is designed to be inclusive and accessible to people of all ages and abilities, both mental and physical, who are seeking a more personal surfing experience. With classes limited to a maximum of six participants, we are able to maintain a low coach-to-participant ratio of 1:3, ensuring that each individual receives the attention and support they need to succeed.
Our classes focus purely on the art of surfing, with an emphasis on ocean awareness and safety, as well as the many benefits that "blue spaces" can have on mental wellbeing.
Our experienced coaches are dedicated to creating a safe and supportive environment, where individuals are free to challenge themselves and explore their limits, all while receiving the encouragement and guidance they need to succeed. We pride ourselves on our ability to adapt to the unique needs of each individual, ensuring that everyone is able to progress at their own pace and feel empowered by their surfing journey.

Ice Baths
Our program also offers a unique and powerful experience for individuals who are seeking the benefits of breathwork and ice baths. Our certified coaches are dedicated to providing the best possible experience for each participant, helping them to conquer the cold and unlock the many benefits of this transformative practice.
Ice baths have been shown to have a wide range of benefits, including boosting white blood cell count for up to six days after the session, reducing fatigue, decreasing depression and anxiety, and promoting a natural high. With our experienced coaches and supportive community, we aim to create a safe and enjoyable environment where individuals can push their limits, connect with their bodies, and experience the transformative power of ice baths.
Our program is suitable for people of all levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners, and we are committed to adapting our approach to meet the unique needs of each participant.

Surf/Ice Therapy
Our program offers a unique combination of surfing and ice therapy experiences, designed to provide a comprehensive and transformative form of therapy for people of all ages and abilities, both mental and physical. With classes limited to a maximum of six participants, we maintain a low coach-to-participant ratio of 1:3, ensuring that each individual receives the attention and support they need to succeed.
Our program is designed to provide a holistic approach to healing and wellbeing, combining the transformative power of surfing with the many benefits of ice therapy. By connecting with nature, challenging oneself physically, and exploring new and exciting practices, participants can experience a deeper sense of connection, purpose, and personal growth.
Our experienced coaches are certified and dedicated to providing the best possible experience for each participant, whether they are beginners or advanced practitioners. We pride ourselves on our ability to adapt to the unique needs of each individual, ensuring that everyone is able to progress at their own pace and feel empowered by their experience.
Where is the Evidence?
Links to supporting articles
“Feels Good to Get Wet”:
The Unique Affordances of Surf Therapy Among Australian Youth
https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2021.721238/full
A qualitative investigation into the perceived therapeutic benefits and barriers of a surf therapy intervention for youth mental health
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0965229921000546
Surf Therapy: A Scoping Review of the Qualitative and Quantitative Research Evidence
https://www.gjcpp.org/en/article.php?issue=36&article=206


