BMD Northcliffe Juniors (or nippers) is the membership category available to both boys and girls aged 7 to 13 (Under 8 through to Under 14), although we also run a fun educational program for nippers aged 5 and 6 (Under 6 and 7).

It is a pre-requisite for nippers in the Under 8 to Under 14s to have an ability to swim, therefore, they must complete a swim competency prior to joining. These age groups are designed to give children and also parents a firm understanding of beach rescues, resuscitation and carnival events, along with preparation for senior level membership.

The other pre-requisite is that at least one parent joins the Club and helps with one of the volunteer groups (officials, water safety or a member of the task force) to contribute to the running of club days and carnivals. There are family subscription discounts available to assist in the financial burden of larger families.

BMD Northcliffe Club days are the foundation from which we build basic surf skills, competition skills and awards knowledge. Each Sunday morning from 8.30am between September and April BMD Northcliffe nippers gather to learn the skills necessary to handle themselves in the surf. The aims of the Sunday activities are:

• Instruction in surf safety & surf awareness
• Lifesaving & first aid skill development
• Competitive sport activities
• Platform to senior beach patrolling duties
• Enjoyable social activity for children & parents

In the Under 6 and Under 7 age groups, members are given a non-competitive understanding of Surf Life Saving through fun and games. They meet every Sunday at the Surf Club for activities from 8.30am.

Each age group has an Age Manager with one or two assistants. The manager is responsible for the education, training and organisation of the group. As the ages increase, the nippers are gradually taught to assist others who may be in difficulty. This training leads to children obtaining their Resuscitation Certificate in the Under 13s, gaining their Surf Rescue Certificate at 13 and their Bronze Medallion at 15. Nippers have a comprehensive competition calendar each season culminating in the Qld Championships which is hosted by Clubs all over the state, held in April each year.

The coaches of water and beach activities have overall control of the Junior Development Training Squad sessions, school holiday program and extra activities. The Junior Development Squad is open to all junior activities members in 8-14 age groups who wish to improve their skills. We believe we have one of the best training programes in Australia under Head Junior Coach Gavin Hill and Junior Coach Tiarne Smith.

The BMD Northcliffe Junior Activities are controlled by the Junior Activities Committee which meets on a monthly basis to discuss future planning and current operations. All members and parents are welcome to attend and contribute at these meetings.

If you require any further information please head to the Nipper News page or contact Junior Activities Co-ordinator, Tiarne Smith click here