Noosa’s Seahorse Nippers are ready to make waves on the national stage at this year’s adaptive Australian Surf Life Saving Championships.
For the first time, five of Noosa Heads Surf Life Saving Club’s (NHSLSC) Seahorse Nippers will compete at the state and national events.
NHSLSC surf sports director Shaun Baker says this is an incredible opportunity for young athletes and a proud moment for the Noosa community.
“Beyond medals and competition, what matters most is these kids belong,” he says.
“They are an integral part of the NHSLSC family, the nipper family and the broader surf lifesaving family that has been protecting Australian beaches for more than a century. As always at NHSLSC, tradition meets progress and, together, we’re making sure no child is left behind on our stretch of sand.”
Seahorse manager Jo Power says the program was created so that every child, regardless of ability, can belong on the beach, learn lifesaving skills, build confidence and experience the excitement of surf sports.
The initiative began when a small group of passionate parents, coaches and club volunteers refused to accept that ‘nippers just isn’t for everyone’.
Instead of stepping back, they stepped up, designing modified activities, tailoring coaching and extra support, so children with additional needs could safely participate alongside their peers.
What started as a handful of kids and big hearts has grown into a respected and thriving part of the club.
