Jack Castles: Nippers Co-Captain 2023/24
Throughout the 2023/24 Nipper season, I had the honour to represent the
Bondi Nippers as a Co-Captain, a role I am highly grateful and appreciative of.
I was also very proud to be selected as the Male Junior Lifesaver of the Year for
the Sydney Branch for 2024. As part of winning this Award, I was able to attend
a camp with all the Branch winners from NSW. It really opened my eyes to all
the opportunities in lifesaving beyond Nippers as well as meeting some great
people and having lots of fun.
Being a Nippers Co-Captain enabled me to see the fundamental growth in all
Nippers whether it be improving water or sand skills or just becoming a better
mate. The development across all Age Groups was awe inspiring even if some
weeks were hard and the early mornings got the better of you, just turning up
made the difference.
Further reflecting on the season, I think back to the Branch Carnival and the
annual swell which seems to have brought 6-8 foot waves for as long as I can
remember. This left us in treacherous conditions or caused a reschedule which,
despite the setbacks, forced us to push our boundaries thereby forming life-
long memories.
More recently, I was also able to watch the Nippers complete the ramp swim, in
which I saw everyone give it a good crack and make it all the way. Some even
beat their parents which is something they can now rub in at the dinner table,
however not being rude or arrogant of course.
So, if I had any advice for all you Nippers going into next season, it would be to
always turn up and put your best foot forward, give everything a good effort,
enjoy it and cherish it because before you know it, you’ll blink your eyes and it’s
over and you don’t want any regrets.
Nippers has given me so much from making great friends, developing my
confidence in unpredictable situations and water skills and fostering my love of
water sports all while teaching me life changing skills. I hope all the Nippers to
come will get as much out of it as I have.
Zoe Burrows: Nippers Co-Captain 2023/24
Bondi Nippers concluded another amazing season in 2024, marked by thrilling
competitions, SRC journeys and a fresh wave of enthusiasm.
The competition season kicked off with the Waverley Shield, showing off all our
talented Nippers throughout the Club. Our competitors won numerous medals
across the Age Groups of the Bondi Blue & Whites. At the end of the season,
the NSW State Championships saw our Competition Team push their limits,
striving for glory against challenging opponents statewide.
The season also celebrated the achievements of the 2023/24 SRC group. The
SRCs were tested through difficult conditions, including rain, wind and rough
surf but all were able to pass and have moved on to become lifesavers on our
beach.
Lastly, we saw the arrival of our new Under 6 Nippers joining the Club. It was
awesome to see them bring their fresh enthusiasm to all the sand and water
activities. With strong smiles, these young Nippers have now fully started on
their Nippers journey.
Thank you to all the Bondi Nippers leaders, water safety and Age Managers.
Without them, none of this would have been possible.
NIPPERS (JUNIORS)
CAPTAIN’S REPORT
82
BONDI SURF BATHERS’ LIFE SAVING CLUB