Join Nippers
Registration, swim proficiencies, parent roles, and code of conduct.
How to Join Nippers
Getting started is easy. We welcome new families every season!
1. Become a Member
Register your child online. At least one parent or guardian also joins the club.
Register Online →2. Come to an Open Day
Meet our team, ask questions, and see Nippers in action. Open Days are held before the season starts.
3. Complete Swim Proficiency
Kids do a quick swim assessment to make sure they're in the right group for their ability.
4. Get Ready for the Season
Pick up your club cap and rash vest, and check the calendar for session dates.
Parents stay during sessions — you're part of the fun too! Many families help out on the beach or behind the scenes.
Swim Proficiencies by Age Group
Each age group has a swim proficiency requirement to participate in water activities.
| Age Group | Swim Requirement | Float Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| U6 | 25m (assisted) | Float on front/back |
| U7 | 25m (unassisted) | Float for 30 seconds |
| U8 | 50m | Float for 1 minute |
| U9 | 100m | Float for 1 minute |
| U10 | 150m | Float for 1 minute |
| U11 | 200m | Float for 1 minute |
| U12-U14 | 200m | Float for 2 minutes |
Proficiency assessments are conducted at the start of each season. If your child isn't ready, they can still participate in beach games and activities.
Competition carnivals require an additional proficiency assessment (150m/200m ocean swim).
How Parents Can Help
Nippers is a family program. Your involvement makes it special.
Age Manager
Lead your child's age group — training provided.
Water Safety
Help keep kids safe in the water during sessions.
Setup & Packdown
Help set up equipment before sessions or pack it away after.
Carnival Volunteer
Support our teams at carnivals and events.
Some roles require a Working With Children Check — the club can help you get one.
Code of Conduct
All participants, parents, and volunteers are expected to follow the SLSA Code of Conduct.
Child Safe Commitment
Fingal Beach SLSC is committed to the safety and wellbeing of every child and young person who takes part in our activities, programs, events or services and will work to create an environment in which children and young people are safe and feel safe at all times.
Working With Children Check
All members working with children or young people must hold a valid Working with Children Check (WWCC).
- ✓ WWCC must be current and verified
- ✓ Required for Nippers age managers and trainers
- ✓ Legal requirement under child protection laws
- ✓ Free for volunteers in most states
Membership Eligibility
We follow SLSA Policy 6.16 regarding criminal convictions for community safety.
- ✓ Serious Criminal Offences require State Centre approval
- ✓ Applications without approval are invalid
- ✓ All information treated confidentially
- ✓ Comply with state WWC regulations
By applying, you acknowledge understanding these requirements and agree to comply with all SLSA policies.
Ready to Join Nippers?
Start your child's surf lifesaving journey today. Join a community that values safety, fun, and family.