Nippers
Our junior surf lifesaving program for kids aged 5–14. Ocean safety, surf skills, confidence and fun — every Sunday morning on Main Beach.
More than just a day at the beach
The Byron Bay SLSC Junior Activities Program — Nippers — gives children aged 5–14 the skills, confidence and friendships that last a lifetime. Every Sunday morning during the season, our beach transforms into a classroom where kids learn ocean safety, surf skills and what it means to be part of a surf life saving community.
Nippers isn't just about the kids — it's a great opportunity for the whole family to connect and get involved. With many roles available for parent participation, there's no need to feel relegated to the sidelines.
What nippers learn
Our program develops surf skills and ocean awareness through age-appropriate activities — from beach play to competition readiness.
Beach Safety
Reading conditions, rip identification, sun safety, and knowing when it's safe to swim.
Surf Skills
Board paddling, body surfing, wade racing, swim skills and surf awareness in real ocean conditions.
Beach Sprints & Flags
Sprint technique, relay changeovers and beach flags — the classic surf lifesaving disciplines.
Rescue Awareness
Age-appropriate rescue concepts, signal recognition and understanding the role of lifesavers.
Competition
Represent Byron Bay at club, branch, state and national carnivals — for those who want to compete.
Teamwork & Leadership
Working together, supporting younger nippers, and building the confidence to step up as leaders.
Nippers in action
Gallery photos via the club's Dropbox — updated after each session.
Age groups
Nippers are grouped by age so activities match their development. Age is determined as at 30 September of the current season.
Under 6
Introduction to beach play, sand activities and shallow water fun in a safe, supervised environment.
Under 7–8
Beach sprints, wade races, board introduction and developing basic water confidence with qualified instructors.
Under 9–10
Building ocean awareness with board paddling, body surfing, swim skills and beach sprint competitions.
Under 11–12
Advanced surf skills, iron person events, surf swim development and carnival-level competition preparation.
Under 13–14
Transition program — competition squads, surf rescue certificate pathways and junior lifesaving introduction.
Register your child
Registrations open each September for the new season. All nippers must be registered members of the club.
2025/26 Nippers Season Calendar
The full season at a glance — regular nippers days, carnivals, championships and key dates.
September
October
November
December
January
What to bring
- 1Hi-vis rashie or club capProvided at registration — must be worn every session.
- 2Sunscreen & hatSPF 50+ applied before arrival.
- 3Water bottleStay hydrated — it gets hot on the sand!
- 4Towel & warm layersFor after water activities.
- 5Board (optional)Club boards available, or bring your own.
Important information
Parent participation
Water safety volunteers needed each session. Parents need a Working With Children Check.
Proficiency requirements
All nippers must pass a swim proficiency assessment at the start of each season.
Weather & conditions
Sessions may be modified or cancelled. Check the Clubbie app for updates.
Carnival weekends
When carnivals are on, regular nippers sessions don't run.
Get your kids in the water this season
Registrations open each September. Join 571 nippers and their families at one of Australia's most beautiful surf clubs.