Developing Surf Lifesavers of the Future

The Maroubra Nippers program provides children aged 5 to 13 with the opportunity to develop surf awareness, water confidence, lifesaving skills, fitness, teamwork and leadership in a safe and supportive environment.

Held at Maroubra Beach during the summer season, Nippers combines education, surf skills, beach activities and fun, helping children build confidence in and around the ocean while creating friendships and lasting memories.

What Nippers Learn

Throughout the season, Nippers develop:

  • Surf awareness and ocean safety
  • Basic rescue techniques
  • First Aid and CPR awareness
  • Swimming and board paddling skills
  • Teamwork, leadership and communication
  • Resilience, confidence and sportsmanship

Surf Sports & Competition

Nippers are encouraged to participate in surf sports as a way of developing lifesaving skills, improving fitness and enjoying friendly competition.

Events include:

Beach Events

  • Beach sprints
  • Beach flags
  • Distance runs
  • Relays

Water Events

  • Surf swims
  • Board races
  • Wade races
  • Iron person events
  • Team races

Traditional Surf Lifesaving Events

  • Rescue & Resuscitation (R&R)
  • March Past
  • Champion Lifesaver

Maroubra has a proud history of developing athletes who have represented at state, national and international level. Additional training opportunities are available for children interested in competing.

Pathway to Lifesaving

The Nippers program is designed to prepare young members for future participation in Surf Life Saving.

In Under 14, members enter the Cadet Program and work towards gaining their Surf Rescue Certificate (SRC), allowing them to progress into active lifesaving and patrol roles within the club.

Each year, more than 40 Maroubra Nippers graduate into lifesaving programs and become part of the next generation of volunteer surf lifesavers.