Nippers

Nippers / Junior Activities

SLSQ Junior Activities Manual.

Administration – Junior Activities Manual (JAM) – 1

The Nippers Program runs on Sunday mornings from April/May through to October, between 9:30am and 11:30am, and is delivered across both the nearby swimming pool and Palm Cove Beach. The 2026 Nippers Program start date is yet to be confirmed.

Training incorporates a balance of land-based and water-based activities, providing a strong foundation for essential surf skills, competition techniques, and awards knowledge. Each Sunday, Cairns SLSC Nippers come together to build confidence, teamwork, and the skills needed to safely and competently handle themselves in the surf.

Program Aims

The Sunday Nippers activities aim to provide:

Instruction in surf safety and surf awareness
Development of lifesaving and first aid skills
Participation in competitive surf sports activities
A pathway towards senior beach patrolling duties
An enjoyable and inclusive social environment for children and parents

For Under 6 and Under 7 age groups, members are introduced to Surf Life Saving in a non-competitive environment through fun, games and basic skill development. These groups meet in-season on Sunday mornings at the Palm Cove Surf Club, commencing at 9:30am.

Each age group is supported by an Age Manager, assisted by one or two qualified assistants. The Age Manager is responsible for the education, training and organisation of their group. As Nippers progress through the age groups, they are gradually taught skills to assist others who may be in difficulty. This development pathway leads to:

Resuscitation Certificate (Under 13s)
Surf Rescue Certificate (from age 13)
Bronze Medallion (from age 15)

Cairns SLSC Junior Activities are overseen by the Junior Activities Committee, which meets regularly to discuss current operations and future planning. All members and parents are welcome and encouraged to attend and contribute.

COME N TRY

- To take part in the Come N Try your child must be at least 5 years of age.
- To gain the full experience of a Come N Try session it is advisable that your child has completed the Pool Proficiency Assessment
- Each child is allowed 2 Come N Try sessions, these sessions do not have to be taken on consecutive weekends.
- The SLSQ Under 18 Participant Waiver form must be completed for each child. The waiver form will be kept at the office and must be signed prior to each session attended.
- At sign in your child will be provided a pink hi-vis vest & red cap which must be worn during the session and returned to the office at the end of the session. A stinger suit is also required of which we have limited loans if required.
- Your child will be placed in an age group based on their age as of midnight 30th September
- Sunscreen, hat, a towel, and water are recommended.
- The office will be open from 8:45am & the session will start at 9:30am on the beach or pool.