Nippers

Fairhaven's future lifesavers

Fairhaven SLSC has been running a successful and highly popular Nipper program since the summer of 1972/73. During the last 50 years we have proudly taught thousands of children how to have fun and keep safe on the beach.

The program is designed for children aged 5–12 (Under 6 – Under 13) and aims to teach awareness of important beach hazards as well as helping them to develop surf swimming and board skills. It also provides a terrific opportunity for physical activity, social interaction with peers, and improved awareness of environmental issues affecting our beaches and waterways. As Nippers move through the program they also acquire basic first aid and resuscitation skills.

To enrol in our youngest age category, "Mozzies", children must be 5 years old by 30 September in the year they start.

Age Groups →

See which category your child fits into.

Nipper Sport →

Carnivals and competition opportunities.

Registration — Season 2026/27

Registration opens 10am, Monday 12 October
First in, first served — capped at 20 places per age and gender, then waitlist

To register, make sure you've got these three things sorted:

  • Membership renewal fully completed for the 26/27 season
  • A completed swim proficiency form ready to upload at the time of registration
  • Current WWCC for all family members aged 18 and over

If a properly completed swim proficiency form isn't uploaded, your registration will be invalid and your place will automatically be filled from the waitlist. Swim proficiency forms are available on the FSLSC website and can be completed by a qualified swim instructor.

Need to renew or join first? See Membership Information and WWCC Information.

Membership queries: clubadmin@fairhavenslsc.org

Key Dates — Season 2026/27

Summer Season

Sunday 27 December – Monday 4 January

LSV Competition Carnivals

Dates yet to be released by LSV. Historically at least one carnival (often Ocean Grove, first week of December) runs before our summer program begins. Let us know if your child would like to be involved.

Pathways After Nippers

Ages 5–12

Nippers

Beach safety, swimming and board skills

→
Ages 13–15

SRC

Surf Rescue Certificate — first step to patrolling

→
From age 15

Bronze Medallion

Full lifesaving qualification

→
Ongoing

Patrolling Member

Active on the beach, giving back

Details on both courses are on the Training & Assessment page.

Nipper Queries

Ben Chan — Director - Junior Development

Lauren O'Donnel — Junior Development Coordinator

nippers@fairhavenslsc.org