Surfing South Australia

Southcoast Development Squad (Intermediate)

LINKING UP

Linking Up
Ladies from the Fleurieu Peninsula have enthusiastically taken to the surf in the quest that active recreation promotes good health.
Surfing SA's Linking Up Program sponsored by the Office for Recreation and Sport links up organisations and participants to promote a healthy active lifestyle.
"The Southern Fleurieu Health Service deals with a wide range of health issues relating to women, social isolation, domestic violence, and general health problems" said Cathy White, Community Development Officer for Southern Fleurieu Health Service (SFHS).
"The Learn to Surf Program commenced approx 18 months ago with approx 50 participants. The last 6 months we concentrated on a smaller group who had either purchased their own surfboard or wetsuit. Two participants have gone on to complete a level 1 surf coaching course and a new ladies surfing club has been formed. The ladies enthusiasm and commitment has exceeded my expectations" said Nat Gilbert, Surfing SA's coach. "They are very supportative of each other and some now meet socially. Many have never surfed before and one lady was 84 years old".
"Before the surfing program started I only tried surfing a few times", said Joanne Brown (Victor Harbor). "Participating in a group with surf coaches and meeting weekly provides more motivation to progress. Surfing has increased my strength and confidence. Thanks to Cathy White and Surfing SA for organising the lessons."
Surfing SA would like to thank participating partners, SFHC, surf coaches and the Office for Recreation and Sport for their commitment to the Linking Up Surf Program" said Tina Atkinson, Program Organiser for Surfing SA. Surfing SA is also currently running a Linking Up Program at Southport (mid coast) for men and women who have experienced problems with alcohol, drugs, domestic violence and mental illness. We have received very positive feedback regarding the program at Southport and it may be possible to have a similar program for men on the Fleurieu Peninsula but details are still to be finalised.