Job description

- Location: Mornington Peninsula (predominantly Point Leo and Shoreham beaches)
- Pay Rate: $44.50 per hour plus superannuation
- Employment Type: Casual (variable weekend work, 5–10 hours per week available)
- Reports To: Program Coordinator

About Ocean Mind

Ocean Mind is a non-profit community organisation providing therapeutic surf programs for young people aged 8–18 years experiencing social isolation, family breakdown, disability, and mental health challenges. By combining ocean activities, mentorship, and therapeutic support, our programs build trust, confidence, communication skills, and a strong sense of belonging.

The Opportunity

We are seeking an energetic and community-minded Casual Program Facilitator to deliver therapeutic surfing programs across the Mornington Peninsula, operating predominantly at Point Leo and Shoreham beaches.

In this role, you will be responsible for running Ocean Mind's core group programs—including our 6-week surf therapy sessions, Surf Clubs, school holiday programs, and 1:1 therapeutic surfing sessions. Working on-site at local beaches, you will maintain water safety, support volunteer mentors, and create an inclusive environment where young people can thrive.

Key Responsibilities

- Program Delivery: Facilitate 1:1 sessions for participants aged 8–18, occasionally assist facilitation for our surf club and 6-week swell group programs.
- Onsite Contact & Safety: Act as the primary onsite point of contact for young people and their families, ensuring all activities comply with Ocean Mind safety policies and procedures.
- Volunteer Support: Work closely with the Program Coordinator to understand client needs, assist with volunteer matching,



and conduct group debrief sessions.
- Community Advocacy: Promote Ocean Mind's vision, ethos, and programs to local schools, youth organisations, and community groups.
- Administration & Reporting: Provide session feedback to the Program Coordinator and assist with basic operational requirements.

Key Selection CriteriaEssential Requirements

- Coaching & Safety: Current Foundation Surf Coach qualification, including all required water safety and first aid certifications.
- Ocean Awareness: Competence in reading ocean conditions and identifying potential safety risks or hazards in beach and ocean environments.
- Mandatory Checks: Current Working with Children Check (Employee) and a current National Police Check.
- Interpersonal Skills: Exceptional communication skills with a natural ability to connect with, motivate, and mentor young people.
- Licence & Transport: Full Australian driver's licence and access to a reliable vehicle.
- Professional Attributes: Good IT literacy, solid organisational skills, and the ability to work proactively both independently and as part of a team.

Desirable Attributes

- Qualifications or current studies in Youth Work, Social Work, Occupational Therapy, Outdoor Education, Community Development, or Psychology.
- Specialised training in child mental health, autism awareness, mental health first aid, or trauma-informed practice.
- Experience working with volunteers or young people with additional needs.
- Broad knowledge of surfing culture and ocean sports.

next steps

To submit your application, please click ‘Apply Now’ by the advertised closing date.

For further information about the role, contact Rachael Parker, CEO at Ocean Mind.

A position description is attached.

📌 Surf Coach / Facilitator - Ocean Mind - Mornington Peninsula (Shire of Mornington Peninsula)
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📍 Shire of Mornington Peninsula