About Maroubra Nippers – developing Surf Lifesavers of the future
The Nippers program at Maroubra SLSC is a hands-on, inclusive initiative for kids aged 5–14. It focuses on surf safety, basic first aid, lifesaving techniques, and physical fitness - building the next generation of confident, skilled surf lifesavers.
Core Skills & Activities
Nippers develop:
- Surf awareness, confidence, and rescue skills
- Life saving skills including First Aid and CPR
- Communication, leadership, teamwork & inclusion
- Competitive experience in:
- Sand Events: Sprints, flags, distance runs, relays
- Water Events: Swimming, board paddling, multi-discipline races, surfing, team events
- Traditional Events: Champion Lifesaver, March Past, Rescue & Resuscitation (R&R)
Progression & Graduation
Once Nippers reach the Under 14 age grouip, they move into the Maroubra Rookie program and earn their Surf Rescue Certificate (SRC). This milestone comes with:
- Water safety awareness
- Surf proficiency
- A strong sense of community service
Over 40 new lifesavers graduate each year to help protect Maroubra Beach.
Season Timeline & Weekly Routine
- Held Sundays during spring/summer at Maroubra SLSC
- July: Online registrations open
- September: Proficiency swims
- Season Start: 19th October
- Holiday Break: Last day 14th December
- Season resumes: 18th January 2026
- Season End: 22nd March 2026
Weekly start times vary by age group. Each group rotates duties for BBQ, beach set-up, and pack-up.
Parental Involvement & Awards
For Nippers to get the most benefit from the program, we encourage all families to get involved and play an active part in the program. There are many ways that families are able to help with the smooth running of the program:
- Age Manager and Age Helper - help out on the beach
- Water Safety - assist in the water
- BBQ - run the Bra-B-Q
- Beach set-up and pack up.
- Junior development committee.
If you would like to get involved, reach out to your age manager, or any member of the junior development committee.
Competitor Training
Water training (swim & board) is skill-based. Coaches assess and guide competitors to suitable sessions for ongoing surf skill development. Training schedules will be published and communicated to all Nippers.
