Hundreds of families across the Hastings and wider Mid North Coast region will have extra reason to enjoy a well-earned sleep-in this Easter Sunday following the end of another successful Nippers season.
Each weekend, like a wave of bright pink mud crabs they’ve crawled onto the region’s beaches, parents in tow, for a vital lesson about the power and unpredictability of the ocean, combined with a whole lot of fun.
At Flynns Beach, the home of the Port Macquarie Surf Life Saving Club, up to 250 Nippers were put through their paces each Sunday, taking part in beach, swim and board races and the iconic flags.
“Of that number we had extremely large groups in the six and seven-year age groups which is encouraging to build on as they move into the older age groups,” explained Nippers Chairperson Danny Suitor.
Sovereign Hills is proud to sponsor the Port Macquarie Surf Life Saving Club, in particular the Nippers – our lifesavers of the future.
“For the Port Macquarie Surf Club it gives us the ability to not only showcase our supporters but also the ability to provide essential life-saving equipment to perform our duties. For the junior part of our club, Nippers, we can use the supporting funds to purchase items we would not normally be able to get; these items make it a more enjoyable experience,” added Danny.
“Whether they are there for a short time or progress into senior ranks the experience they gain not only helps themselves, but also gives them the ability to help others and become involved in a community organisation.”
The 2017-2018 Nippers season was a successful one for the club. Fifteen Nippers performed well at the State Championships, and two of the club’s under 14s representatives qualified for the Aussie Titles in Perth – to be held in April.
In the picturesque Hastings region, we are spoilt with crystal clear rivers and many patrolled and unpatrolled beaches.
The life skills passed on by the Nippers’ age group leaders each Sunday are as relevant for the most cautious child or teenager as they are for the more confident.
“I think doing Nippers and learning about our beaches is extremely vital for kids. It gives them more confidence in and around the water and also teaches them what to look for to remain safe.”
There will be more information about the next Nippers season available here later in the year. You can also email nippers@pmslsc.com.au to learn more.
