Reclink Australia has been helping Mallacoota residents recover from the 2019–20 Eastern Victorian bushfires. The fires caused a lot of damage and trauma. Thanks to their bushfire recovery program and our community grant, they have been supporting locals in their healing journey.
A key part of their recovery effort has been the surfing group. Surfing has helped residents reconnect with the ocean and heal from their trauma.
Callista Cooper, Sport and Recreation Manager, explains ‘A lot of people found healing through the ocean, and I think through our surfing group we’ve really been able to reconnect people.’
Participants not only learned to surf, many now also volunteer with the local surf life-saving club.
The surfing group has had a positive effect on the community. Locals who had never surfed before are now patrolling and helping others.
‘We created safe spaces, heard their fears, and walked beside them to teach them about the ocean,’ says Callista.
This shows how the program has fostered personal growth and community spirit.
Watch the video below.
Updated