MANY mums find it hard to get a minute to themselves, let alone time to hit the beach and catch some waves.
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With that thought in mind, Kristen Tola started Surfing Mums in Newcastle.
It is part of the Surfing Mums Incorporated network, which began in Byron Bay.
The Newcastle group, formed in January, meets on the second Saturday and fourth Sunday of the month at city beaches.
"I started up Surfing Mums because my husband is a surfer and I've just started learning to surf myself and as a mother, it's been very difficult to do," Mrs Tola said.
"I'm meeting a lot of mums who are in the same boat.
"It's that whole thing about wanting to try to get out and wanting to continue their recreational surfing life.
"The challenge is usually, you've got your kids in tow."
Participants bring their children to the beach and while in the water, a buddy stays on shore with the kids, before reversing roles.
Mrs Tola said the group had six members and about 12 more people interested in joining to enjoy the healthy outdoor activity.
"The whole thing about Surfing Mums for me is building a network so you can get out," she said.
"I honestly believe there's probably a large number of mums in Newcastle who do require this kind of thing."