Far north coast beaches will get a little brighter as the Nippers season officially splashes back onto the sand this weekend.
On Sunday, thousands of kids from across the region will throw on their signature pink rash shirts and dive into another summer of surf safety and fun, with Newcastle Permanent proudly supporting the program for another year.
Open to children aged five to 14, the Nippers program is designed to teach essential skills like CPR, rescue techniques, and surf awareness while giving participants the chance to enjoy fun, beach-based activities in a safe environment.
Last season, over 1,800 young surf lovers joined the Far North Coast program, and this season is set to be just as exciting as the last.
David Parker, Branch and Lending Manager at Newcastle Permanent Ballina, said the organisation is thrilled to be supporting Nippers again.
‘The iconic pink rashies are a symbol of learning safety and community – and we’re proud to help make them a reality for Nippers,’ Mr Parker said. ‘This season, we’re excited to see thousands of kids learning life-saving skills while enjoying everything our beautiful beaches have to offer.’
Growing with the kids
David Rope, Director of Lifesaving at Surf Life Saving Far North Coast, said the program is designed to grow with the kids.
‘Nippers is designed to make sure children not only have fun at the beach but also learn skills that will help them stay safe in and around the water,’ Mr Rope said.
‘From their first time in the sand to becoming qualified lifesavers, it’s a journey we’re proud to guide them on. Each season we see how the skills these kids learn benefit them and the wider community.
‘With the continued support of Newcastle Permanent – over 17 years strong – we’re able to offer this invaluable program to more families across the region.’
Nippers is held across 10 clubs in the Far North Coast, from Yamba to Fingal Head, and registrations are still open. For more information, visit www.surflifesaving.com.au/nippers/.
Last year, Newcastle Permanent supported more than 10,000 Nippers across Surf Life Saving Clubs from the Central Coast to Queensland.
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