One of the most popular activities on the surf lifesaving calendar returns to the Hunter’s beautiful beaches this weekend.
Thousands of nippers, conducted across 13 clubs in the region from Catherine Hill Bay to Tea Garden Hawks Nest, are set to don their iconic rash shirts and descend upon the sand for the launch of the 2023/24 season, which starts on Sunday 8 October.
Open to children between the ages of five and 14, the surf skills program – supported by Newcastle Permanent – teaches CPR and lifesaving techniques, surf safety, as well as rescue experience, all while completing fun surf sport activities.
Hunter SLS president Henry Scruton ESM admitted the nippers experience was tailored to ensure youngsters got the most out of the initiative.
“It helps them build up their confidence, have fun and meet friends, while learning important skills to keep themselves and the community safe at the beach,” he said.
“Little ones as young as five can join the program.
“That age is all about having fun in the sand and becoming familiar with the water.
“By the time kids reach 13 and 14, they are developing the skill base required to become a qualified surf lifesaver.
“Hunter SLS has had a wonderful partnership with Newcastle Permanent for more than 40 years.
“It allows us to deliver services to all beachgoers – from our newest nippers all the way up to those of us who remember seeing the map on the bottom of the canoe pool at Newcastle Baths.”
Newcastle Permanent chief distribution officer Paul Juergens said the customer-owned organisation was proud to support Hunter SLS.
“Water and safety skills are extremely important to have, and even better to have from a young age, so it is fantastic to see there are more than 2,500 nippers enrolled so far this summer,” he explained.
“The pink rashies have become a classic part of Aussie beach culture.
“So, it’s wonderful to see the community’s future surf lifesavers in training in that unmissable colour.
“But, more than being iconic in the sand and surf, the rashies promote sun safety, as well as providing great visibility in the water for parents’ peace of mind.
“I always know summer’s right around the corner when I start to see the nippers sprinting down on the sand.”
Registrations are still open.
To find your nearest nippers program visit www.hsls.org.au.
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