Nippers

Surf Life Saving Australia’s Nippers Program is iconic and there are over 10,500 Nippers across Victoria and over 72,500 across the country.

South Melbourne Life Saving Club delivers one of the largest Nippers programs in Port Phillip Bay. The program is a beach education program that introduces children aged 5 to 14 years to lifesaving. Our nippers participate in safe and enjoyable activities in a beach environment, learn important water safety skills and make new friends.

South Melbourne Life Saving Club runs their Nipper program from November to March (break over Christmas) on Tuesday evenings.

Under 6, 7, 8 and 9 - 5.00pm to 6.00pm
Under 12, 11, 12 and 13 - 6.00pm to 7.00pm

Our program offers:

  • Introduction to surf lifesaving
  • Water safety
  • Surf awareness
  • Sun safety
  • Open water confidence
  • Nipper board training
  • Wading
  • Patient care
  • Resuscitation
  • Lifesaving competition skills

Parental involvement

Nippers must join SMLSC as part of a family membership and parental involvement in Nippers is strongly encouraged. Our Nippers program is led by the Nipper Manager and supported by a team of Age Managers and Parent Helpers.

Working With Children Checks

Our Nipper Parents are required to hold a Working With Children Check (WWCC). The check is free, easy to apply for and once you’ve applied, we will provisionally process your membership until your WWCC is confirmed.

More information about Working With Children Checks is available here.

Join / Renew your Family Membership

To JOIN please contact us and our Membership Manager will help you through the process.

To RENEW please visit the Surf Life Saving Member Page here.