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What is Nippers?

Nippers is a fun beach education program for kids aged 5 to 14 years, introducing them to lifesaving skills and water safety. It’s a great way for kids to build confidence, learn about water safety, connect with the community, and appreciate the beauty of our bay.

At Nippers, kids get to enjoy safe, fun, and organised activities at the beach, while preparing to become future lifesavers!

Who can join Nippers?

Any child living in Victoria who’s between 5 and 13 years old can join. We place children into an age group at the start of each season, based on how old they are on 30 September.

For your family to participate, at least one parent or guardian needs to be there to support the children during the sessions and help out with things like managing an age groups, running the BBQ, or assisting with equipment. All helpers must have a valid Working with Children Check (volunteer or paid worker).

At Sandridge, we normally have 50 kids and our usual age groups are:

• Under 8

• Under 10

• Under 12 and up

However, depending on how many families register and the number of helpers we have, we adjust these groups each season to best suit the kids’ needs.

Do my kids need any special skills?

No special skills are required! The Nippers Education Program is for everyone, no matter their experience or skill level. Our focus is on fun and learning, so all children can enjoy positive experiences at the beach.

At Sandridge, we emphasise building a sense of community. While we do include some sports activities, we follow the Surf Life Saving Victoria (SLV) guidelines to ensure everyone’s safety. Our club focuses on giving kids of all abilities and interests a fantastic time in and around the water while learning important water safety skills. If your family is more interested in competitive preparation, other clubs may be a better fit.

Where?

Sandridge Life Saving Club in Port Melbourne

(240 The Blvd, Port Melbourne VIC 3207)

When?

We have 8 sessions on Sundays from 4 pm to 6 pm for the 2024-25 season:

2024:

• November 3: Introduction and swimming evaluation

• November 17: Nippers

• December 1: Nippers

• December 15: Nippers and Christmas party

2025:

• February 9: Nippers

• February 23: Nippers

• March 9: Nippers

• March 23: Nippers and club championships (presentations)

Cost?

To join Nippers, simply become a family member of Sandridge Life Saving Club. You only need one family membership independent of the number of children.

The current registration fee is $300 per family, which includes:

• Access to 8 Nippers sessions during the 2024-25 season

• A Rashie

• A BBQ after each session

• The Christmas party for kids in December

• Medals and trophies at the season’s end

• Swimming evaluation at the start of the season

• Use of Nipper’s equipment during sessions and other times

• All the benefits of being a club member

  • A key fob for 24/7 access to the club

  • Use of club facilities like the kitchen, BBQ, showers, and more

  • Attendance at other club events

How can we register?

It’s easy! Just join or renew the Sandridge Life Saving Club as a family by using this link:
Register here

If you have any questions, feel free to email us at nippers@sandridge.org.au or contact our Nippers Coordinator, Daniel Paez, at 0434 584 871.