Welcome to Nippers
Nippers is our junior surf lifesaving program for kids aged 5–14. It's all about having fun at the beach, making friends, and learning to stay safe in and around the ocean.
Ages 5–14
Age groups by 30 September
Sunday Mornings
During surf season
Family Program
Parents are part of it too
Swim Proficiency
Annual assessment required
A Typical Sunday Morning
8:45am
Sign in
9:00am
Beach games
9:30am
Water activities
10:30am
Skill games
11:00am
Sign out
"It's not about being the fastest — it's about trying your best, having fun, and improving each week."
Age Groups & Skills
U6–U8
Little Nippers
Fun first! Learning to be confident in shallow water, floating, and having a go.
U9–U11
Growing Skills
Building endurance, learning board skills, and developing surf awareness.
U12–U14
Young Lifesavers
Stronger swimming, board races, and preparing for future patrol roles.
💡 If a child isn't quite ready for water activities, they can still join in beach games and skill-building. We make sure everyone participates safely.
Why Families Love Fingal Nippers
Learn beach safety while having a blast
Build swimming and board skills through play
Make friends and feel part of the club
Pathway to surf sports and future lifesaving
Everyone's Welcome
We also run Starfish Nippers — an inclusive program for children with additional needs.
Starfish is open to all ages and focuses on safe, supported beach fun.
Learn more about Starfish Nippers →What to Bring
How to Join
Become a Member
Register your child online. At least one parent or guardian also joins.
Register Online →Come to an Open Day
Meet our team, ask questions, and see Nippers in action.
Complete Swim Proficiency
Quick swim assessment to ensure the right group placement.
Get Ready for the Season
Pick up your cap and rash vest, check the calendar.
👨👩👧 Parents stay during sessions — you're part of the fun too!
Carnivals & Competition
Kids who want to race can join Surf Sports carnivals throughout the season. It's optional — many kids just enjoy Sunday sessions!
👧 Who Can Race?
- ✓ U6 & U7: Watch and cheer
- ✓ U8: Wading events only
- ✓ U9+: Full competition after assessment
🏅 What Kids Can Do
- 🏊 Surf swim
- 🏄 Board race
- 🏃♀️ Beach sprint
- 🏁 Beach flags
🎉 A Carnival Day
- • Early start, big smiles
- • Team huddles and cheering
- • Kids wear Fingal colours with pride
✨ Win or learn, we celebrate effort and team spirit. Every child who races represents our club with pride.
For Parents
Nippers is a family program. Your involvement makes it special.
🏖️ Help set up or pack down
📋 Support your child's age group
🏁 Volunteer at carnivals
🛟 Become a water safety helper
📋 Some roles require a Working With Children Check — the club can help you get one.
💙 Many families start with Nippers and stay for years. We're so glad you're here.
Season Calendar
The season runs from spring to early autumn. Key dates include:
🎉 Open Days (before season starts)
📝 Registration and proficiency sessions
🏊 First and last Sunday of Nippers
🏆 Carnivals and club events
Dates are confirmed before each season and updated here regularly.
Ready for Summer Fun?
Join the Fingal Beach Nippers family — where kids learn, grow, and make lifelong friends.
Questions? We're happy to help — email membership@fingalbeachslsc.org.au