WBSLSC Nippers Program
The WBSLSC Nippers program encourages all children to do their best and develop to their full potential, whilst learning new skills and having fun.
The vision for our Nippers Program is to provide a safe and friendly environment where both Nippers and parents can learn and enhance their knowledge about surf life saving and to prepare our Nippers to eventually be patrolling members of our club.
We encourage all children to do their best and develop to their full potential, whilst learning new skills and having fun.
Throughout the season our key focus is:
Safety First
Do Your Best
Have Fun
We have only one major rule at Nippers: NO THROWING SAND
2024/2025 Season Nippers Calendar
Times
- Sign in at 9:15am*
- Session start/finish: 9:30am-11:30am
*Please arrive early so we can get organised and maximise our time on the beach!
We Need Your Help
How To Register For Nippers
To join the Nipper program your Nipper needs to either be a junior member of the Club or be included in a family membership. They will also require the nippers safety gear.
The Nipper program is included in your membership fee. Memberships can be purchased or renewed below.
Required Safety Gear
To participate in the program it is compulsory that all Nippers are wearing the Pink Rashie and Club Cap.
These can be purchased from our online store or from the Club at the start of Nippers.
Nippers Age Groups
At Waratah Beach SLSC we are offering the Nippers program to children in age categories under 6 to under 14. Children are appointed to a particular age group each season based on their age on 30 September each year. You can use the table below to work out the age group for your child.
For our smallest Nippers:
Children must be 5 years old to participate in Nippers. Children who turn 5 years old after 30 September in the current season will be required to join as an U/6, for the current and following season. If your child turns 5 years old during the season (between 27 December and 17 January), they cannot start Nippers until after their birthday.
| Age as at September 30 | Junior Activity Group |
|---|---|
| 5 Years Old | Participate as Under 6 |
| 6 Years Old | Participate as Under 7 |
| 7 Years Old | Participate as Under 8 |
| 8 Years Old | Participate as Under 9 |
| 9 Years Old | Participate as Under 10 |
| 10 Years Old | Participate as Under 11 |
| 11 Years Old | Participate as Under 12 |
| 12 Years Old | Participate as Under 13 |
| 13+ Years Old | Complete the Surf Rescue Certificate (SRC) |
Nippers FAQ
Answers to the most common questions questions about Nippers we get asked.
How do I sign up?
Returning members can renew their membership and your Nipper is automatically registered for the season. New members need to complete a membership application and nominate their child. Once a child is registered as a member, they are automatically registered for Nippers.
When does nippers start?
Does my child have to attend every session?
No, but we recommend your Child attends as many sessions as possible pick up the skills, meet new friends and have fun.
Do I have to stay on the beach?
Yes. Nippers is not a baby-sitting or drop-off service. You must be on the beach for safety reasons. AND we really need parent/guardian assistance for set up and pack up and Nipper Helpers.
Can I just show up day 1?
You need to register your child/family as new member or renew your membership prior to attending a session.
Who do I contact?
Contact the Nippers team: [email protected]
What do I need to bring?
Wet suit, club swim cap, pink club rashie, sunscreen, goggles, water bottle.
Do I need to buy uniform before hand?
What age can they be?
Children must be 5 years old at 30th September 2023.
Do I (parent) need to be a member too?
No, but it is a wonderful way to be a part of the Club, and you receive discounts at the Warabar.
If you have any questions not covered here contact the Nippers team: [email protected]
Put Your Hand Up
Volunteer at Waratah Beach
From cooking sausages at the Nippers BBQ, helping out at the bar, learning surf rescue skills to take to the beach or volunteering in positions of leadership.
If you are keen to make a contribution, there are so many jobs that make us a successful club and we welcome you to put your hand up.
Every hour you can give, every idea, and every contribution you make counts!