Santa swaps sleigh for speedboat for nippers Christmas party

SANTA Claus made an early visit to Main Beach last weekend, swapping his sleigh for a rigid inflatable boat before handing out lollies at the Byron Bay Surf Life Saving Club’s nippers Christmas party.

Braving scorching temperatures in his famous red suit, Santa wore a life jacket and yellow helmet for his arrival, delighting both nippers and surprised beachgoers.

Organiser Alex Haynes said he was mobbed as he arrived on the beach, before posing for photos with each child.

 

“The waves were really rough so he got a little bit wet coming in this year,” she said.

“Then there was a stampede up to the club house with everyone trying to get a piece of Santa on his way up. It was so nice to see a sea of kids in pink rashies running up to him. He really got a workout. My kids and I made 200 lolly bags and he gave out every single one.”

Families also enjoyed a free sausage sizzle and bought drinks at the bar, while younger brothers and sisters lined up to have their faces painted.

The club’s junior activities co-ordinator Christian Round said a record 372 nippers had signed up this season, with many parents who complete their Bronze Medallion so they can help out going on to volunteer in club patrols.

 

“Living on the north coast, it’s so important for kids to learn about surf safety,” he said. “I wouldn’t say we’re a super-competitive club, but we do have a bunch of kids who really enjoy the competition side of things. It’s a great way to get outdoors in a fun environment that keeps kids healthy and happy.

“It’s also a wonderful way for people who are new to the community to meet some really good people with similar values.”

Many nippers will compete in the Far North Coast Branch Championships at Yamba this weekend before taking a break over the Christmas period. They will return on January 18, ahead of the 2026 NSW Country Championships at South West Rocks from January 23 to 25.