Newcastle Permanent supported the return of the Hunter Surf Life Saving Nippers season, which began across the region on Sunday, 12 October. Thousands of children wore the program’s pink rash vests at local beaches as clubs resumed weekly training focused on water safety and lifesaving skills.

The customer-owned financial institution continued a longstanding partnership with Hunter Surf Life Saving that spanned more than 40 years. Last season, Newcastle Permanent supported more than 3,700 Nippers across 13 clubs from Catherine Hill Bay SLSC to Tea Gardens Hawks Nest SLSC. Early registrations indicated strong participation again this year, with over 3,500 enrolments recorded at the time of launch.

Newcastle Permanent spokesperson, Greg Hooper said the organisation valued its role in supporting local water safety education for young people.

Water and safety skills were essential for children to develop. It was encouraging to see the Nippers program thriving across the Hunter, Greg said.

Hunter Surf Life Saving President, Henry Scruton ESM said the backing from Newcastle Permanent helped clubs deliver programs tailored to children as they advanced through age groups.

As participants progressed, they began learning the skills needed to become qualified surf lifesavers and contribute to safer beaches for the community, Henry said.

Registrations for Hunter Surf Life Saving Nippers remained open.

IMAGE | Left to Right Grace Walton, Miles Garbutt, Lily Garbutt