Diving into fun

NIPPERS aged from under 8 to under 14s from clubs across the far north coast took part in a junior carnival at Yamba last Sunday, with many competing for the first time.

The junior surf lifesaving club members who signed up for the event were able to test their abilities against other clubs in events such as beach relay and flag races and enjoy a fun day with their friends.

Ballina Lighthouse and Lismore Surf Life Saving Club president Joanne McIntosh said conditions were fantastic, with sunny blue skies.

“It was a great day for all competitors, especially those who were attending for their first carnival,” she said.

“We may not have a large group of kids competing but we’re trying to build that. A lot of kids are really enthusiastic so we’re trying to encourage them to do this sort of thing.

“It’s lovely to see them getting out there and enjoying themselves and being brave in the ocean.

“Ultimately, we want them to be the lifesavers of the future so all exposure that they can get is beneficial to them.”

Ms McIntosh said it was also important to acknowledge all the volunteer parents who helped on the day – without whom such events wouldn’t be possible.

Lennox Head-Alstonville SLSC junior activities chair Jodie Roberts said more than 60 nippers from the club took part, with many finishing in the top three in both individual and team events.

“The conditions were great which made a difference,especially for a lot of our kids competing for the first time (all Under 8s) and our Under 9s competing in the swim and board for the first time,” she said.

“Our all age beach relay team won which was a highlight.”The next major event is the Far North Coast Branch Carnival, which will be held at Byron Bay on Sunday November 24.

It will be followed by the branch championship at Cudgen Headland SLSC on December 14 and 15.