The Shark Incident Community Support Program is an initiative between the Department of Primary Industries, RAMHP, Bite Club, Surfing NSW and Surf Life Saving NSW to support coastal communities following a fatal or serious shark incident.
This initiative enables the agencies and organisations involved to provide information about the NSW Shark Management Program, along with mental health support to the local surfing and wider community.
Mid North Coast RAMHP Coordinator, Orry Berry says we need to acknowledge that trauma and traumatic events impact every individual differently, even if the person is not directly affected. He says with RAMHP’s support and education, communities will have the ability to identify signs and symptoms of emerging mental health concerns, as well as understanding local referral options and supports.