Hunter kids hit the beach for nippers season launch

Hunter beaches will get a little brighter as the Nippers season officially splashes back onto the sand this weekend.

---

On Sunday, thousands of kids from across the region will throw on their signature pink rash shirts and dive into another summer of surf safety and fun, with Newcastle Permanent proudly supporting the program for another year.

Open to children aged five to 14, the Nippers program is designed to teach essential skills like CPR, rescue techniques, and surf awareness while giving participants the chance to enjoy fun, beach-based activities in a safe environment.

Last season, over 3,000 young surf lovers joined the Hunter program, and this season is set to be just as exciting as the last.

Paul Juergens, Chief Distribution Officer at Newcastle Permanent, said the organisation is thrilled to be supporting Nippers again.

“Nippers is a brilliant opportunity for kids to not only develop vital water safety skills but also to build confidence and enjoy everything the beach has to offer,” Mr Juergens said.

“It’s fantastic to see so many families making the most of this program each year, and of course, those bright pink rashies have become a beachside staple. We’re proud that the support we give ensures this tradition continues to benefit the community year after year.”

Henry Scruton ESM, President of Hunter Surf Life Saving, said the program is designed to grow with the kids.

“For the younger ones, Nippers is all about getting comfortable in the sand and waves, but as they get older, they start learning the real skills needed to become surf lifesavers,” Scruton said.

“The support we receive ensures the Nippers program continues to grow each year. With the continued support of Newcastle Permanent – over 40 years strong – we’re able to offer this valuable program to more families across the region,” Scruton added.

Nippers is held across 13 clubs in the Hunter, from Catherine Hill Bay to Tea Gardens Hawks Nest, and registrations are still open. For more information, visit www.surflifesaving.com.au/nippers/.

Last year, Newcastle Permanent supported more than 10,000 Nippers across Surf Life Saving Clubs from the Central Coast to Queensland.