Life’s swell for a growing wave of keen summer swimmers
As drowning rates across Victoria remain above the national average, a record number of Nippers flocking to the state’s beaches is offering hope.
A surge in Nipper numbers has Victoria’s future lifesaving ranks riding a wave of success.
A record 14,383 children are registered in Nipper Education Programs this summer across the state, with participation rapidly swelling year-on-year following the pandemic lockdowns.
Mentone Surf Lifesaving Club Nippers Harley, 9, Asher, 12, and Gabriel, 10, are among the surge in Victoria’s junior lifesaving ranks. Credit: Chris Hopkins
At Mentone Surf Lifesaving Club, Harley, 9, Asher, 12, and Gabriel, 10, are among the keenest of the junior beach brigade to meet others, stay fit and enjoy being outside.
“I started Nippers because my two older sisters were involved, and I loved watching them compete and seeing how much fun they had on the beach with their friends,” Asher said.
“I enjoy it because of the variety of activities I can compete in, and I have made some good friends both at my club and others.”
Life Saving Victoria’s general manager of member engagement and sport, Simon Rickard, said Nippers was the lifesaving movement’s mainstay water-safety program for children.
Nipper lifeguard Asher followed in her sisters’ footsteps by joining Mentone Surf Lifesaving Club’s program six years ago.Credit: Photograph by Chris Hopkins
Swelling popularity also reflected community demand for practical water-safety education and healthy, active lifestyles.
“It gives young people the confidence and skills to enjoy our beaches safely, while also teaching them the foundations of lifesaving, teamwork and leadership,” Rickard said.
Loading
“It’s fun, family-centred and inclusive. It’s also vital in growing the next generation of volunteer lifesavers who keep our communities safe.
“For clubs and the broader community, it sustains vital volunteer capacity and cultivates future leaders on and off the beach.”
All of Victoria’s 57 lifesaving clubs are running Nipper programs this summer, with about half offering both holiday and standard programs to service locals and visitors.