The Good Human Factory visits Torquay

LOCAL surfing clubs have participated in a series of mental health workshops to help better equip its members with skills to manage stress and anxiety.

Last week, Surfing Victoria and WorkSafe teamed up to bring mental health organisation The Good Human Factory to Torquay.

Facilitated by former pro surfer Cooper Chapman, The Good Human Factory challenges the way people view mental health and seeks to make mental health “cool.”

Attendees from Surf Coast Longboarders, Jan Juc Boardriders, SOUL Longboarders and Torquay Boardriders were taken through a series of meditative exercises and given tips and tricks on how to stay on top of their mental health.

Chapman also took participants out into the water for a surf session.

He said he was thrilled with the buy-in from the Surf Coast community.

“I had such a ball with the crew, thanks so much to Worksafe and Surfing Victoria for having me.

“It was epic to get a few fun surfs in and get smoked in some heats by the groms that were ripping.”

Surfing Victoria head of events and marketing Liam Robertson agreed.

“The WorkSafe Club Wellness sessions are a great way for clubs to offer a place for members to improve their mental health and wellness,”

he said.

“Having Cooper down to deliver sessions for our clubs is always amazing and his sessions give an incredible insight into how to improve your general wellbeing.”