THE future of the beach is bright, as this year’s Nippers presentations showed.

Held on Sunday 10 March at the Bennetts Beach clubhouse, the awards saw 137 Nippers commended for their efforts this past season.

Parents, grandparents and friends watched as the U13s to U6s had their turn to shine.

There were certificates for age groups and top-of-group trophies, with the U7s declared the champion bucket racers.

Age Managers commented on how some kids wouldn’t go near the water at the start of the season, but were racing and swimming by the end.

“Without the Age Managers, Nippers simply does not happen,” said Junior Activity Officer Ryan Russell.

“They stepped up, and had fun, even if it did get rowdy.

Club President Rebecca Curtis agreed, calling their efforts “amazing”.

“Thank you James Howell, Shannon Keighran, Abbey Keighran, Katie Bagnall, Claire Bagnall, David Taylore, Adam Elliott, Dani Davy and Megan Potter, Kerrie Moore, and… Ryan Russell, who is leaving us this season.

“The Club is returning to grassroots, lots of focus on the Nippers, and proceeds from the next big event, the April Pig Races at Tea Gardens Country Club, will go towards Nippers too.”

Secretary Kerrie Moore had special thanks for other members of the community who helped throughout the season.

“Thanks to Ava for helping to sign all the kids in, and to Kath and Dave at the Tea Gardens pool for their support getting kids here via Learn To Swim, and to Boomerang Bags for their donation which helped fund the swimming lessons.”

The perpetual trophies were given out last, recognising four categories of effort and encouragement.

– Vince McClean Award: Edward Whitburn (U13).

– Chris Richards Award: Jack Johnson (U9)

– Rex Sergeant Award: Silas Keighran (U13)

– Dr Ian Everett Award for top point-scorer: TIE between Bonnie Elliott (U10) and Anneke Whitburn (U11)..

By Thomas O’KEEFE