JUNIOR HAND BOOK 2016/2017

               Welcome

The Dicky Beach Junior Activities Committee would like to welcome all families to the 2016/2017 season.

Dicky Nippers are a dynamic part of the Dicky Beach Surf Life Saving Club community. Nippers offer a fun and active lifestyle choice for children between the ages of 5 and 13, as well as a solid base for learning and competition in beach activities. Nippers are taught everything from sun and surf safety, beach sprints and board paddling, all the way to life- saving skills like CPR and water rescues.

NIPPER CAPTAINS: Baxter Moles and Zoe Riseley

VICE CAPTAINS: Jack Cois and Jess Oates

U14 LEADERSHIP GROUP: Taylah Jelfs, Max McCreed, Holly Smith, Emma Thompson, Carys Nicholls, Ella Blacker, Brodie Monro, Lily Bain, Taj Greenhalgh

The Nipper family is not just about the children, it also encompasses parents who choose to get involved with either teaching beach activities to the kids or who want to achieve their own milestones like completing their Bronze Medallion.

Our aim is to provide an opportunity for our nippers to learn more about the beach and the surf in a safe and enjoyable environment and hopefully encourage the next generation of young “lifesavers”.

Our website dickybeach.blogspot.com.au  will be our continuing major communication tool this year. Our ongoing weekly newsletter will reiterate our website information and this handbook will be a valuable reference. We will also send out text messages advising of any changes to or extra activities that may take place, please ensure you register your mobile number with the club on registration days. During the off season the committee has been busy organising the many and varied things necessary for the coming season. Have a look at the events calendar and lock away all the important dates.

This year again we have a great panel of coaches on board who not only provide their valuable experience on Sundays but also deliver mid-week and weekend training sessions to our Nippers. Our band of Age Managers will be assisting in coordinating the nippers on Sundays and at carnivals throughout the year.

Dicky Beach Nippers pride ourselves on being a family friendly club and we encourage everyone to get involved in the club and its activities throughout the year. There are many ways of providing assistance and in our experience there is nothing more satisfying than being involved with your children as they learn and have fun.

At Dicky Beach Nippers we are not a babysitting service. Nippers can take three hours or more on some days so it is imperative that parents NEVER leave their child unattended. Although the aim of Nippers is to educate your children about the fundamentals of surf awareness and surf safety, Nippers is not a ‘learn to swim’ program. Children are expected to be able to confidently swim the required distance for their age group BEFORE they are able to compete in any water events.

We look forward to the coming season and the opportunity of meeting with old and new members. If at any time you have a question, please don't hesitate to approach us.

Dicky Beach Junior Activities Committee

OFFICE BEARERS 2016/2017 JUNIOR ACTIVITIES COMMITTEE

Position	Name	Email	Mobile Phone
Junior Activities Chairperson	Hamish Barbour	hamishbarbour@hotmail.com	0438 426 474
Junior Activities Vice Chairperson	Adrian Rowleson	adrian@tetrie.com.au	0407667 781
Junior Activities Secretary	Janine Holland
Junior Activities Treasurer	Stacey Cross Pitcher and Evette Hesse
Junior Activities  Registrar	Kerrie Bray and Rebecca Bowtell	drivingdownunder@gmail.com rebeccabowtell11@bigpond.com	0432 095 304 0414 887 613
Fundraising Coordinator	Alison Thain
Operations Manager	Patrick Clancy
Gear Steward	Alan Morris
Water Safety Co-Ordinator Nippers	Michael Doherty
U8 - U10 Team Manager	Jason Munt		0428 980 404
U11 - U14 Team Manager	Gary Von Dohren		0422 306 582
Junior Activities Clothing Co-ordinator	Kerrie Bray
Junior Activities Clothing committee	Allison Roser, Cara Von Dohren , Mel Dale
Coaches: Board Coach Club Swim Coach Beach March Past	Ronnie Bowtell Ronnie Bowtell Craig Brooks		0455232456 0477006912
Club Administrator	Robyn Campbell		5491 5742

JUNIOR ACTIVITIES AGE MANAGERS

Age Group	Age Managers
Green Caps
Under 8	Matthew Holmes, Andrew Strachan, Julie Pellas-Jeffrey’s
Under 9	Andrew Bauer
Under 10	Matt Capper Cinnamon O Shannesy Jason Munt Adrian Rowleson
Under 11	Ed Hefferman Melissa Monro Michael Doherty
Under 12	Jadine Morris Bryan Box Sally Bushell Rodney O Shannesy, Rebecca Bowtell
Under 13	Taryn Capper  Raylene Setchell Gary Taylor
Under 14	Sue Adams-Smith Brad Greenhalgh  Dave Moles Nicole Browne

AGE MANAGERS

Muster commences at 8:15am SHARP

Age Managers are requested to collect their folder on their arrival at Nipper Days. All relevant information will be placed in the folders for Age Managers.

All Age Managers are required to complete the Age Managers and Observers course, which is conducted at the beginning of each Nipper season. All age managers must have a current Blue Card, or must apply for one through Dicky Beach Surf Life Saving club (See Child and Youth Risk Management Strategy page 22).

Age Managers only need to attend this course once during their time with Nippers. Should an Age Manager not attend this course, they will be ineligible to continue in this role.

It is requested that all Age Managers and Coaches arrive by 7.45 am on Sundays so they can be provided information from the Operations Manager (regarding conditions and placement of activities).

We thank all Age Managers for their assistance in helping our Nippers in this critically important role

Aim and Objectives

The following aim and objectives have been adopted by the Dicky Beach Surf Lifesaving Junior Activities and reflects the manner in which these activities are conducted at Dicky Beach.

AIM

To enrich the lives of young people through fun, involvement and the acquisition of personal, lifesaving and competition skills, in a safe aquatic environment.

OBJECTIVES

To ensure that Junior Activities thrive within Surf Life Saving, the following objectives have been designed to encourage and support our young members:

·         Provide the best possible lifesaving experience for all Junior Activities members with the overarching aim being to encourage long-term active participation;

·         Provide opportunities for Junior Activities members to participate in enjoyable lifesaving activities and competition in an aquatic environment by offering a wide variety of activities suited to the skill and maturity levels of all juniors;

·         Ensure the juniors are safe on Australia’s beaches through the provision of beach safety education programs;

·         Develop a team based philosophy encompassing leadership, camaraderie, teamwork, and fun; and

·         Promote social, emotional and physical growth and development in a healthy, safe environment.

Age Groups

The absolute minimum age for a child to join the association and partake in Junior Activities is 5 years (Green Caps) up to a maximum of 13 years (U14) on a seasonal basis. The age for a season is determined as at midnight on the 30 September at the commencement of that season.

For example - a child turns 11 years before the 30 September of that season; that child will be registered in the U12 age group for that season. If a child turns 11 years after the 30 September of that season; that child will be registered in the U11 age group for that season.

NOTE:

1.    A child cannot register as a member of the association until they have turned 5 years old. If a child turns 5 after the 30 September they cannot register or partake in any lifesaving activities until the following season.

2.    If a Club’s Junior Activities program commences prior to the 30 September then the

child is still grouped into the age group of their age as at the 30 September.

AGE GROUPS FOR 2016/2017 SEASON
AGE GROUP	OCT	NOV	DEC	JAN	FEB	MAR	APR	MAY	JUN	JUL	AUG	SEP
Green Caps U6	2008	2008	2008	2009	2009	2009	2009	2009	2009	2009	2009	2009
Green Caps U7	2009	2009	2009	2010	2010	2010	2010	2010	2010	2010	2010	2010
U8	2008	2008	2008	2009	2009	2009	2009	2009	2009	2009	2009	2009
U9	2007	2007	2007	2008	2008	2008	2008	2008	2008	2008	2008	2008
U10	2006	2006	2006	2007	2007	2007	2007	2007	2007	2007	2007	2007
U11	2005	2005	2005	2006	2006	2006	2006	2006	2006	2006	2006	2006
U12	2004	2004	2004	2005	2005	2005	2005	2005	2005	2005	2005	2005
U13	2003	2003	2003	2004	2004	2004	2004	2004	2004	2004	2004	2004
U14	2002	2002	2002	2003	2003	2003	2003	2003	2003	2003	2003	2003

Junior Preliminary Skills Evaluation

DEFINITIONS

Inter-Club Competition – Inter-club competition is defined as sanctioned competition between registered Surf Life Saving Queensland Surf Clubs with members representing their own clubs and in their relative age groups.

Intra-Club Competition – Intra-club competition is defined as sanctioned competition and/or training conducted only between members of an individual Surf Life Saving Club with members competing in their relative age groups.

Open Water - is defined as ‘a large body of water such as the sea or large lake, occurring naturally or purpose built’.

Pool Evaluation – The pool swim component of the pool evaluation must be completed in an enclosed pool no less than 25m and be completed by using a continuous over arm stroke (i.e. Freestyle).  The survival float component of the pool evaluation must be completed in an enclosed pool at a depth where if the Junior Activities member were to stand on the bottom of the pool, their mouth and nose would not protrude out of the water.

Run, Swim, Run – A Run, Swim, Run is defined as a continuous beach run, open water swim completed by using a continuous over arm stroke and another continuous beach run measured to the specified distance relevant to each junior activities age group.

Shall, must, should, may – the words “shall” and “must” imply a mandatory statement, the word “should” implies an advisory statement, and the word “may” implies a right to use discretion.

Shallow water - For the purpose of the Junior Activities Skills Evaluation, the term shallow water is defined as water at a depth no higher than the knee of the participants.

INTRODUCTION

Many activities that will be completed by children as part of junior activities will be conducted in the water. To ensure that all children have a suitable swimming ability to allow them to participate in these activities, SLSQ has developed a Junior Preliminary Skills Evaluation for each age group. 

All distances set out in the Junior Preliminary Skills Evaluations are the standard. Some Branches may set distances above the standard. Please ensure that you liaise with your respective Branch for confirmation of their specified requirements.

Before the commencement of any water based lifesaving training a documented risk assessment must be carried out on the selected area. Refer to the SLSA Water Safety Policy for the form.

POOL EVALUATION

Every junior member is required to participate in the Pool Evaluation, prior to any junior activities being undertaken. It includes a pool swim, and a timed survival float. This would normally occur at the very first training session. If not this must be completed before any water activity is undertaken. The intent of this is to conduct an evaluation of each junior member’s swimming and water survival ability for the information of the member, parent, and age manager.

Conducting the Pool Evaluation

The Pool Evaluation must be conducted in a safe constructed pool environment with a water safety ratio as per the SLSA Water Safety Policy.

Only a current SLSA Assessor (SRC/ Bronze), SLSA Level 1 Surf Coach, AUSTSWIM Instructor or a Bronze Accredited Swim Coach can determine if a child is competent at the pool evaluation. Surf or Swim Coaches must sign the SLSQ Junior Activities Preliminary Pool Evaluation Endorsement Form. Note - swim or surf coaches must provide proof to their local branch of their accreditation. SLSA Assessors must sign the necessary Surf Guard form. 

Following the Pool Evaluation

Any child that does not meet the required Pool Evaluation level cannot participate in any junior activities until the child can successfully complete the Pool Evaluation. Further it is advised that club’s liaise with parents to suggest that external swim training be provided to improve the child’s swimming ability.

Any child that does complete the Pool Evaluation successfully must then complete the Beach Evaluation (Run Swim Run).

COMPETENCY BEACH EVALUATION (RUN-SWIM-RUN)

Every junior activities member must also complete the Competency Beach Evaluation (Run-Swim-Run) prior to any junior activities competition being undertaken, and prior to gaining their age award. This ensures that all children can demonstrate a standard of competence to enable preliminary levels of survival skills at a beach with conditions similar to what would be experienced during weekly junior activities programs. This is an SLSQ standard.

NOTE: It is not an assessment which if not completed competently precludes the child from becoming a member or continuing with junior development or training activities.

Conducting the Beach Evaluation

The Beach Evaluation (Run Swim Run) must be conducted in a safe beach environment with a recommended water safety ratio as per the SLSA Water Safety Policy, at a beach with conditions similar to what would be experienced during weekly junior activities programs.

Only a current SLSA Assessor (SRC/ Bronze), can determine if a child can competently complete the Beach Evaluation (Run Swim Run). The Assessor must personally view all competencies performed.

Following the Beach Evaluation

Any child that does not meet the required beach evaluation level, and have it recorded on SurfGuard, will require a higher level of supervision when involved in water based activities at the discretion of the club. It is a requirement that these children must be supervised with a 1:1 ratio until the child can successfully complete the Beach Evaluation (Run Swim Run).

Those juniors who do not complete the Competency Beach Evaluation (Run-Swim-Run) and have it recorded on Surf Guard are ineligible to partake in intra-club water based competition and cannot gain their relevant junior age award. There may be limits applied to the number of times that a child can attempt the Beach Evaluation (Run-Swim-Run) during the season, based on the capability of the club/ branch to manage the assessments.

Any child that does complete the Beach Evaluation (Run-Swim-Run) successfully is eligible to continue participating in all learning outcomes for their respective age award and can progress to age group appropriate water based junior activities noting the SLSA Water Safety Policy requirements.

Should the child wish to compete in inter-club competition they must complete the Junior Competition Evaluation.

JUNIOR COMPETITION EVALUATION

From the age of 7 (Under 8) juniors may begin to compete in inter-club competition. To ensure that all junior members who wish to compete have the ability, strength, and fitness standard to complete the course they must be able to complete the junior competition evaluation for their age group.

The junior competition evaluation is based on the swim competition distances as set out in the SLSA Australian Surf Sports Manual for that age group and is a standard in the form of an open water swim. Individual branches may have a higher standard for their competition evaluation. Contact the relevant Branch office for confirmation.

	Preliminary Evaluations		Competition Evaluation	Age Award
	Pool Evaluation	Competency Beach Evaluation (Run-Swim-Run)
Under 6	Kick on wall with face in water 30 second float	Nil (shallow water activities only)	NA (No Competition)	Surf Play 1
Under 7	Torpedo (push off wall) with face in the water 30 second float	Nil (shallow water activities only)	NA (No Competition)	Surf Play 2
Under 8	25 metre swim (freestyle) 1 minute survival float	25m-25m-25m Run-Wade-Run	Run - Wade - Run (25m x 25m x 25m)	Surf Aware 1
Under 9	50 metre swim (freestyle) 1 minute survival float	50m-50m-50m Run-Swim-Run	Minimum 150m open water swim (competition course distance as per competition manual)	Surf Aware 2
Under 10	50 metre swim (freestyle) 1.5 minute survival float	50m-50m-50m Run-Swim-Run	Minimum 150m open water swim (competition course distance as per competition manual)	Surf Safe 1
Under 11	100 metre swim (freestyle) 2 minute survival float	50m-100m-50m Run-Swim-Run	Minimum 288m open water swim (competition course distance as per competition manual)	Surf Safe 2
Under 12	100 metre swim (freestyle) 2 minute survival float	50m-100m-50m Run-Swim-Run	Minimum 288m open water swim (competition course distance as per competition manual)	Surf Smart 1
Under 13	150 metre swim (freestyle) 3 minute survival float	100m-100m-100m Run-Swim-Run	Minimum 288m open water swim (competition course distance as per competition manual)	Resuscitation Award is a pre-requisite to Surf Smart 2
Under 14	200 metre swim (freestyle, in less than 5 minutes) 3 minute survival float	100m-100m-100m Run-Swim-Run	Minimum 288m open water swim (competition course distance as per competition manual)	Surf Rescue Certificate
Assessor	Bronze Accred Swim Coach; OR SLSA Level 1 Surf Coach; OR AUSTSWIM Instructor; OR Assessor (SRC/Bronze).	Assessor (SRC/Bronze)
Notes	Every junior member must successfully Complete the Pool Evaluation, prior to undertaking competency beach evaluation. This is a standard water proficiency requirement.	Every junior member must successfully complete the Beach Evaluation prior to undertaking the competition evaluation. Any child that does not meet the required evaluation level will require a higher level of supervision when involved in water based activities.	The competition evaluation must be achieved before being eligible to compete in inter-club competition. This is a standard open water proficiency requirement. Distances may be adjusted by the Chief Assessor dependent on risk assessment.	If a child wishes to compete in a Branch and/ or State Championship event, their respective age award must be completed prior to close of nominations.

The distances above are the standard. Some Branches may set distances above the standard.

Enter into carnival. Age award must be completed prior to entry in Branch/ State Champs.

End of Season present junior age award certificate

Successful

Is the child going to compete in any inter-club competition?

Competition Evaluation

Continue participation in all learning outcomes for relevant age award by training to further develop lifesaving and surf skills.

Yes

No

Unsuccessful

Re-train to build up to competition distance

Continue to participate in Club training until able to complete competition swim

Successful

Pool Evaluation

Re-train for Pool Evaluation

Unsuccessful

Competency Beach Evaluation (Run-Swim-Run)

Participate in all learning outcomes for age award

May participate in water activities, at Clubs discretion, must have a ratio of 1:1 until the beach evaluation is completed. May continue to participate in land based learning outcomes if not permitted to enter open water.

Successful

Unsuccessful

Re-train for Competency Beach Evaluation (Run-Swim-Run)

 

Junior Age Award 

As part of the Junior Development Program and Junior Activities children have the opportunity to gain a junior development award each season. Each Junior Activities Member will be encouraged to attain their respective age award during each season. Those wishing to compete in inter-club events must complete their award prior to the close of entries of their respective Branch and/or State Championships. Below are the age awards that each age group:

  Under 6 Surf Play 1 Under 7 Surf Play 2  Under 8 Surf Aware 1 Under 9 Surf Aware 2

 Under 10 Surf Safe 1 Under 11 Surf Safe 2 Under 12 Surf Smart 1Under 13 Surf Smart 2

Under 14 Surf Rescue Certificate – Live in Camp

NOTE:

1. Children in the U13 age group who are training for the Resuscitation Certificate refer to the SLSA Training Manual (33rd Edition with SLSA insert), chapter 4.

2. Children in the U14 age group training for the Surf Rescue Certificate should also refer to the SLSA Training Manual (33rd Edition with SLSA insert).

3. Age Managers will refer to the Age Guides of the Junior Development Resource Kit when teaching their age groups.

NIPPER SUNDAYS

Important Points

·         Muster commences at 8:15am SHARP

·         Nipper Days commence at 8:30 am and finish no later than 11:30am

·         Please ensure the whole family is protected with sunscreen, and that you provide your child with a drink bottle at all training days and at carnivals. We encourage children to practice the “Slip, Slop, Slap” message and to drink plenty of water.

·         Club togs and cap must be worn at all Nipper days and when participating at carnivals. Nippers must remove their cap when they are signed off for the day.

·         Each child will be placed in an appropriate age group. Age Managers are allocated to each group. Age Managers take their group to each discipline.

·         Behavioural guidelines have been implemented, and each child is asked to adhere to these guidelines.

·         Parents/guardians are asked to sign on and sign off their child/children with their Age Manager. A Parent/Guardian MUST be in attendance at Nipper days and must deliver the child to the Age Manager and collect the child from the Age Manager.

·         If for any reason your child has to leave the group, please notify the Age Manager on departure from and return to the activity area.

·         All nippers shall be supervised at all times within the club, including the dormitory area. All equipment shall be respected within the facility.

 Green Caps U6 and U7

·         Parents MUST be in attendance throughout the program with the child.

·         The participants are limited to activities up to wade depth water unless swimming between patrolled flags.

Water Safety

·         Water Safety personnel play an important role in Nippers. Water Safety personnel can be easily identified as they wear bright orange rash shirts and caps. If you are concerned about the safety or confidence your child has in the water please do not hesitate to speak with your Age Manager or our swim or board coach or any of the Water Safety personnel. (Refer below for more information on water safety).

·         During Nipper days, we are expected to provide a suitable number of Water Safety personnel One Water Safety person to five nippers. A lack of personnel may limit the number of children in the water at any one time.

·         Similarly, at carnivals, it is mandatory to provide one water safety and one official for every ten competitors. Water Safety and Official courses will be held throughout the year and we seek your assistance to participate in these roles.

Awards for Parents

It takes many people and positions to operate a safe and successful nipper operation. Water Safety personnel play an important role in ensuring our Nippers remain safe at both Sunday Nipper days and carnivals. All water safety personnel are required to undertake training, in either a Bronze Medallion Certificate II in Public Safety – Aquatic Rescue or a Surf Rescue Certificate and are required to participate in an annual proficiency. You will also become qualified as a lifesaver and will be able to assist in patrolling our beach.

Dicky Beach SLSC conducts two training courses throughout the year, one starting in October 2016 and the next in February 2017. The course is held on weekends over a 3 week period and involves both classroom and water activities. The theory sessions includes topics such as surf awareness, first aid, CPR and radio operations, while the practical sessions include surf swimming, tube rescues and board rescues. There are many other awards that parents of nippers can undertake such as First Aid, Observers Course, Radio Operators course, ATV and Tractor certificate, all of which enable a member to be able to patrol our beach. Please refer to a full list of available awards in the senior section of this handbook.

If you interested in becoming a part of this important team and would like more information, talk to the water safety coordinator or the Chief Training Officer or the Dicky Beach Surf Club Office Ph. 5491 5742 or Ross Gibb Chief Training Officer Phone: 0423 697 255 Email: ross_gibb@bigpond.com.

TRAINING

Additional club funded training is available mid-week and Saturdays. A timetable of these sessions will be placed on the website.

Nippers who undertake training by our club coaches are expected to conduct themselves within the code of conduct framework for members. Any Nipper who does not abide by this code of conduct will be asked to leave the training session. (Please see Code of Conduct and Policy Documents in this hand book for full details).

At times, parents may wish to pay private coaches to train their child. It is incumbent that when hiring the coach that this coach should have the relevant coaching qualifications together with an insurance policy to cover participants should an injury or accidents occur.

Dicky Beach Junior Activities Committee cannot support any paid coach without these qualifications and takes no responsibility if a parent decides to allow their child to undertake training with a coach who does not have the relevant qualification and insurance coverage.

If you have any questions regarding this matter, please see the Chairperson.

SPONSORSHIP AND FUNDRAISING

Dicky Beach Surf Life Saving Club is a not for profit organisation. Its funding is derived from several sources including its own markets, grants, sponsorship and most importantly fundraising. Fundraising is fundamental to the success of any surf lifesaving club to maintain its patrolling and training equipment as well as the club supplied equipment for training Junior Activities members. Below are some activities that we urge all of our members to get involved in.

•           Family BBQs are held each Nipper day. On a rotational basis, each age group is expected to supply helpers for the BBQ.

•           We also have a number of other fundraising events during the year. These are advertised in the handbook calendar. We ask that you support these events and seek your assistance as volunteers. On a rotational basis, each age group is expected to supply helpers for these events.

•           Should you be aware of any business or individual who may be interested in sponsoring Nippers, please see the committee.

•           A fundraising committee will be responsible for co-ordinating all fundraising activities. This fundraising committee is always looking for new ideas and committee members.

•           Every Nipper who participates in any organised club training will be required to participate in fundraising events. E.g. Nipper Raffles held on Sunday at the club throughout the whole calendar year.

•           A “Volunteer Log” will be kept of all fundraising activities and ALL Nippers and/or their families are requested to assist in a minimum of 3 fundraising events per season.

Nipper Board Information

For Nippers and parents

Please look after equipment. DO NOT STAND OR KNEEL on nipper boards (foam or fibreglass), as they are not designed for this purpose. Any person in violation of this rule will be suspended from board use!

Please use the club’s boards as if they were your own.

•           Any damage to a club board must be reported to the Board Coach or Age Manager who will then report the damage to the Operations Manager.

•           Boards are the single biggest expense for our club. It is imperative that we all take responsibility and look after our boards.

•           Nipper boards, mals and body boards can only be taken from the nipper sheds with direct permission from a board coach or Operation Manger. All boards will only be used for training sessions or nipper days under supervision of a club board coach.

•           Repairs of allocated boards. Boards damaged by nippers during competition or training will need to be repaired by a qualified person as dictated by the JAC. Under no circumstances are the boards to be repaired by the parent or an unqualified person without the permission of the Operations Manager or Chairperson. Please inform the board coach of any damaged at the time it occurs. Cost of the board repair will be paid by the club. However if damage of the board is deemed by the chairperson to be deliberate or negligence the cost of the repair will be the borne by the parent or guardian of the nipper.

Foamies – (used ONLY by 8 -10year olds and beginners in older age groups)

•           6 feet 6 inches long

•           Must be SLSA approved

•           Only to be used in the lying position, not kneeling or standing

•           Replacement cost $650

Fibreglass Boards – (used ONLY by 11-13 age groups)

•           6 feet 6 inches long

•           Must be SLSA approved

•           Only to be used in the lying position, not kneeling or standing

•           Replacement cost $1000

Mals – (used ONLY by U14 age group)

•           10 feet 6 inches long

•           Must be SLSA approved

•           Used in the lying or kneeling position

•           Replacement cost $1900

Body Boards  

•           Used by all age groups

Basic Board Care

Mals and glass nipper boards are made of fibreglass and epoxy resin, not polyester resin as used with normal surfboards. Epoxy is lighter and stronger than polyester resin. Epoxy is extremely toxic and difficult to work with; therefore repairs are very expensive.

•           If left on the beach, place face down with the fin up. (Remember, make it look like a shark)

•           The sun destroys boards. Place in shade if not using. Cover with a towel or similar when on the beach for extended periods.

•           Report all damage immediately to age managers or gear stewards.

Cleaning Boards

To be done at the end of the season. Wax collects – sunscreen, sand, dirt, sweat and skin making the wax slippery.

1. Place in sun for 5-10 minutes to soften wax.

2. Use a wax comb to remove most of the wax.

3. Rub off remaining wax with a rag.

4. Clean thoroughly with mineral turps.

5. Wash off with soapy water.

6. Hose off with cold water.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Committee Meetings

Management Committee meetings and Nipper Committee meetings are held once a month throughout the season.

Inquiries or Concerns/Grievance Procedure

Dicky Beach SLSC has a grievance handling procedure as well as a grievance officer and club chaplain. If a club member (parent or child) has a grievance, there are a number of people to which the grievance can be referred. The options within Junior Activities are, the section head in which the grievance may have occurred (Age Manager, Team Manager, Water Safety Officer, IRB Officer), JAC Vice Chairperson, or the JAC Chairperson.

A person may sometimes feel they have experienced unreasonable treatment, disadvantage or distress, which they would like to complain about. A statement of concern becomes a grievance when it is reported to a member of the Junior Activities Committee (JAC).

A grievance can be about a situation, a process, a person or people. [In dealing with a grievance the management of Dicky Beach SLSC would recommend that we should try and resolve the grievance at the lowest appropriate level of management]. When raising a grievance, it is important that the person making the grievance is aware of the Dicky Beach SLSC Constitution and By-Laws, Policy, Procedure, and Rules (these are available from the Administration Office). They should also seek advice from the JAC regarding their formal rights and responsibilities.

Personal Accident U14 Insurance

Junior members under the age of 14 are covered by the association’s Personal Accident and Public Liability Insurance that provides coverage for non-Medicare medical expenses (i.e. dental, physiotherapy) subject to a limit of $5,000. These expenses must be incurred within 12 months of sustaining injury.

Providing a Safe Environment for our juniors

Junior Activities is the breeding ground for our future Surf Lifesavers, which means we need to ensure that we provide a safe and supportive environment for all Junior Activities members. A number of policies and guidelines exist to ensure all Junior Activities members participating in lifesaving activities are doing so in a fun, enjoyable and risk free environment.

Child and Youth Risk Management Strategy

Dicky Beach SLSC recognises that strategies and processes in the identification and management of risks of harm to children and young people are essential to the creation of a safe and supportive surf lifesaving environment. We acknowledge that our staff and volunteers provide a valuable contribution to the positive experiences of our junior activities and youth members.

Dicky Beach SLSC is committed to ensure the protection, safety and welfare of our young members and believe that we must place the safety and welfare of children and youth above all other considerations. This is particularly important considering approximately 60% of our total membership is under the age of 18.

The Commission for Children and Young People and Child Guardian Act 2000 and the Commission for Children and Young People and Child Guardian Regulation 2011 require regulated organisations and businesses to develop and implement a child and youth risk management strategy which aims to keep children and young people safe. To comply with the legislative framework, SLSQ and Dicky Beach SLSC Child and Youth Risk Management Strategies must:

● Address SLSQ’s commitment to creating a safe and supportive service environment within our organisation;

● Strengthen SLSQ’s capability to provide such an environment;

● Assist SLSQ’s to manage any particular concerns with respect to the safety and wellbeing of children and young people who are involved with the organisation or business; and

● Promote the consistency of SLSQ’s approach to risk management, both within the organisation, and with respect to its requirements for compliance under the Commission’s Act.

Each club must include the eight minimum mandatory requirements within their Club Child and Youth Risk Management Strategy. The Commission for Children and Young People and Child Guardian Act 2000 and the Commission for Children and Young People and Child Guardian Regulation 2001 outline the following eight minimum requirements as follows:

Commitment

1. A statement of commitment to the principles of safe and supportive service environments;

2. A code of conduct.

Capability

3. Recruitment, selection, training and management strategies that encourage best practice and enhance the safety and wellbeing of children and young people.

Concerns

4. Policies and procedures for handling disclosures and suspicions of harm;

5. Policies and procedures for the occasions where there might be a breach of the organisation’s Child and Youth Risk Management strategy;

6. A planning process for high risk activities and special events.

7. Policies and procedures for compliance with Part 6 of the Commission’s Act, which regulates the Blue Card system;

8. Strategies for communication and support for all stakeholders including children and young people.

For further information regarding the SLSQ Child and Youth Risk Management Strategy please visit the SLSQ website (www.lifesaving.com.au) and look under Membership/Member Welfare and Protection.

The Working with Children Check is a detailed check of a person’s police information (if any) including charges or convictions. This involves a check of relevant police information held by Police Services in Australia. The Commissioner also considers relevant disciplinary information held by certain professional organisations. In addition, information from police investigations into allegations of serious child-related sexual offences can be taken into account, even if no charges were laid because the child was unwilling or unable to proceed.

Surf Life Saving is a source of fun, enjoyment, health and well being for all who choose to participate. In order to show commitment to the safety and welfare of members and others who engage with the association, SLSQ has developed the Blue Card Screening Policy. It has been created to protect all SLSQ individual members who are under 18 years of age from all forms of physical or mental violence, injury, exploitation and abuse (including sexual abuse) while under the care and conduct of any Surf Life Saving leader, trainer, age manager, team manager or coach.

It is a requirement that all volunteers over the age of 18 must hold a ‘Blue Card’ or exemption notice before they start volunteering in any area of regulated employment, regardless of how often they come into contact with children and young people.

Due to the unique nature and large, varying scope of activities within Surf Life Saving, SLSQ has recognised and accepted that parent members who are actively involved in working with and/or supervising children are not, or are very unlikely to be, involved in the same or similar activities as their children from week to week.

Therefore parent members who are involved in roles or functions such as those listed below are required to complete the blue card screening requirements.

The following is a list of persons who must complete the screening procedures:

•           Club Committee Members;

•           Junior Activities Chairperson/Committee Members;

•           Junior Activities Team Managers;

•           Junior Activities Assistant Team Managers;

•           Junior Activities Chaperones;

•           Age Managers and Assistants;

•           Junior Activities Coaches;

•           Junior Activities Assistant Coaches;

•           Cadet / Youth Officers;

•           Chief Training Officer and any Training Officers;

•           Patrol Captains and all Patrol Members over 18;

•           Club Coaches; Club Assistant Coaches;

•           Club Chaperones;

•           Senior Team Managers;

•           Officials;

•           Water Safety Personnel (including IRB Crew);

•           Patrolling Members; and

•           Club Photographers.

Other positions holders who must complete the documents include:

● All leaders, instructors and chaperones involved in a live in situation.

NOTE: This list is in no way limited to the above categories. Any member involved in working with members under the age of 18 years must complete the screening process.

For further information regarding the SLSQ Blue Card Screening Policy or Working with Children Check and to obtain relevant application forms please visit the SLSQ website (www.lifesaving.com.au) or contact your Club.

If any person has a card, which has been issued through another organisation, they should present their original to Kerrie Bray, Registrar at the commencement of the season to ensure particulars are placed on Surf Guard.

Sun Safety Requirements

In Queensland, when visiting the beach or venturing into the ‘great outdoors’, there is a need to be sun safe. Too much exposure to the sun can cause serious damage to your skin and, in the worst case, may result in melanoma. Whenever you are going in the sun, make sure you take adequate precautions to avoid sun damage.

By following the simple steps of Slip, Slop, Slap, Slide, Slurp and Seek, you can enjoy the beach and outdoors safely.

Slip on a shirt;

- Long-sleeved shirts will provide the best protection against harmful ultra violet (UV) rays.

Slop on some sunscreen;

- Apply sunscreen at least 15 minutes before going into the sun. For the best protection use 30+ sunscreen and be sure to re-apply every two hours or after swimming.

Slap on a hat;

- Wide-brim hats are the best as they cover your head and provide shade for your face

Slide on some sunglasses;

- Eyes are one of your most important assets and you have to take care of them. UV-protective sunglasses will help prevent your eyes from getting sun-damaged.

Slurp lots of water;

- When visiting the beach or staying out in the sun for extended periods, ensure that you drink plenty of water. Even if you are in the water, you can still dehydrate.

Seek some shade;

- Protective tents are a great way to protect you from the sun, but take care to ground them properly so they don’t fly away and cause injury to other beach visitors.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

1. Avoid direct exposure to the sun during the hottest part of the day – between the hours of 10:00 am and 3:00 pm.

2. Dicky Beach SLSC will ensure that we have adequate measures in place to ensure the protection of our Junior Activities members from the sun. E.g. Tents for shade cover, drinks stations on the beach, the wearing of hats when not in the water.

For further information regarding sun safety please refer to the SLSA Sun Safety Policy number 2.1 on the SLSA website (www.slsa.com.au)

CARNIVALS

Participation

•           During the season, carnivals are conducted on the Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast. Please refer to your calendar frequently as this advises you of the carnival dates and when nominations close. These carnivals are not compulsory.

•           Members representing the Dicky Beach SLSC are expected to conduct themselves in such a way as to not bring discredit upon themselves or their club. (Please see Code of Conduct and Policy Documents on Web Site for full details)

•           Club togs and caps must be worn whilst participating at carnivals.

•           At carnivals, all parents are to remain outside the carnival competition arena or marshalling area.

•           Only Team Managers are allowed within the competition area.

•           No photography is allowed in the carnival arena unless the individual is an approved media officer by SLSQ.

•           Age Managers are able to enter the marshalling areas only.

•           The Team Manager is responsible for the team and all equipment during the carnival.

•           Club Boards at carnivals are for competition use only. Club Boards must be returned to the club tent upon completion of the event.

•           Any damage to any club equipment is to be reported immediately to the Team Manager who will advise the Gear Steward.

•           SLSQ has a no smoking policy – this means no smoking within the carnival arenas, including club tents and in the vicinity of activities on training days.

•           It is mandatory that one parent of children who participate in carnivals take on a role as an Official, Water Safety Officer, Age Manager or Gear Steward for that carnival. Due to the minimal number of Officials and Water Safety Officers available this season, the club has implemented a priority order for competitors. Sunshine Coast Branch will be strictly implementing 1:5 ratio for water safety and officials, (excluding IRB drivers and crew) to competitors. A larger pool of parents with these qualifications will allow all parents to share the workload and give opportunity for everyone to watch their children participate at carnivals.

•           Nippers with parents who are officiating, providing water safety, Age Managers, Gear Stewards, Team Manager, Assistant Team Manager or Coaches at the designated carnival, and Nippers whose parents have a nominated role within the Dicky Beach SLSC will take priority at the nominated carnival. The Junior Activities Committee reserves the right to make the final decision in relation to carnival nominations and numbers.

Individual Carnival Nominations

•           Each child participating in an individual carnival has to nominate for the carnival by the nominated date located in the training and carnival calendar. No late nominations will be accepted.

•           A nomination fee per Carnival is required at the time of the nomination. This amount is charged by the respective Branch Office and is not refundable should the member not compete.

•           Should payment not be received, the competitor will not be able to enter any further carnivals (including team carnivals) until the outstanding amount is paid.

How to Nominate

•           NOMINATIONS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED UNLESS PAYMENT IS MADE

•           A table and relevant notice board is placed near the BBQ shed on Nipper days a minimum of 2 weeks prior to a carnival date.

•           A flyer is displayed both on the notice board and table outlining the event list. Check the flyer to identify what events your nipper is eligible for at the relevant carnival. Each carnival may have different events.

•           Envelopes are provided on the table.

•           Obtain an envelope and place the following details on the front:

Name of nipper;

Age group (e.g. U10);

Name of Carnival

State the events the nipper wishes to take part in (e.g. flags,

Wades, swim, boards, sprints); and

Amount of money placed in the envelope

•           Place the amount of money inside the envelope and place the envelope in the box on the table. Exact money is required as no change will be available.

•           A week prior to the carnival, a list of nippers together with their events will be posted on the notice board. It is the responsibility of parents to check to ensure correct nominations have been completed.

•           Should there be any discrepancy or you have any queries, please contact the Nominations Registrar.

Team Carnival Nominations

The Club pays for team carnival nominations.

The Club Selection panel will decide on teams and members will be advised of their selection on the Sunday prior to the carnival date.

U8 to U10 members are to advise their Age Manager if they are available for selection for a Team Carnival at least 3 weeks prior the carnival date.

U11-U14 members will be advised if they are selected for teams and must confirm their availability for the particular carnival with the Team manager 2 weeks prior the carnival date.

Team Carnival Selection Criteria

•           To be eligible for team carnival section, a member must have attended not less than 60% of Sunday training days in accordance with the club calendar.

•           Members who make themselves available and subsequently withdraw from a team carnival without valid reason will be required to pay any outstanding nominations fees and may not be considered for future carnival selection.

•           The Team Manager is to be advised of the subsequent withdrawal after the initial selection of a competitor.

•           A Selection Panel will determine the teams.

•           Coaches have the sole discretion to make team changes throughout the carnival. These changes will only be due to extra-ordinary circumstances such as illness or injury immediately prior to or during the carnival.

THE TEAM SELECTION PANEL COMPRISES:

•           Team Manager

            Junior Team Manager

•           Chairperson

•           Relevant Age managers

•           Professional/Paid Coaches

•           JAC Committee Member-(as mediator/casting vote if necessary)

THE SELECTION PANEL’S DECISION IS FINAL

BRANCH AND STATE SELECTION CRITERIA

Selection criteria for Dicky Beach Branch and State teams are based on the following points

•           Regular attendance at Nippers Sundays -as per attendance records

•           Regular attendance and attitude mid-week training for your preferred

            Disciplines - as per training attendance records

•           Team work at training sessions for your preferred disciplines

•           Performance during mid-week training for your preferred disciplines

•           Regular attendance at Sunshine Coast Branch Carnivals

•           Attendance at specialised team training as designated by coaches

•           Individual results at ALL carnivals attended

•           Results on Club Championship Day attended

This criteria is aimed at making the selection fair to all competitors and produce the most positive results for Dicky Beach Life Saving Club.

Please let us know if you are attending private training not run by the club.

THE SELECTION PANEL’S DECISION IS FINAL

STATE NOMINATION CRITERIA

The culmination of the competition for the Junior Activity season is the State Titles. The titles are open to Nippers in age groups from Under 11 to Under 14. It is a very exciting time of the year when we see the results of the Nippers’ hard training.

Dicky Beach SLSC Junior Activities endeavours to support Nippers attending these titles. All Nippers who reach the qualifying standards for Branch Nomination Criteria and State Nomination Criteria (listed below) are entitled to a State uniform being provided at minimal cost and minimum attendance at 3 fundraising events. A small deposit maybe required to cover costs towards uniform and to confirm place in team.

Under 11s – Finish within the top 8 places for individual events. In team events the relevant selection criteria set by the Sunshine Coast Branch at the Branch Titles.

Under 12s and Under 13s – Finish within the top 12 places for individual events. In team events the relevant selection criteria set by the Sunshine Coast Branch at the Branch Titles.

Under 14s – There is no qualifying criteria for individual events, but to be eligible to attend State Titles under Dicky Beach SLSC Junior Activities policies, nippers must have participated at the Sunshine Coast Branch Championships in at least three events (including at least 2 individual events). In team events, the relevant selection criteria set by the Sunshine Coast Branch at the Branch Titles.

Individuals who do not meet the qualifying standards may still participate in the titles and may purchase the uniform at cost price.

Uniforms will not be ordered until the nomination fee and if applicable the uniform fee is received by the Junior Registrar. This includes all Under 14s participants. Fundraising events will be conducted to raise money for costs associated with attendance costs at these titles. All families will be advised at the beginning of the season of their obligation to support these events. Those persons who do not participate in these nominated events will not be entitled to any subsidised uniform purchase.

CLUB AWARDS

Conduct of Nipper Championship Day

•           Club togs and caps must be worn whilst participating in Points Day.

•           The Operations Manager will be responsible for the overall conduct of the Points Day.

•           One Nipper Championship day will be conducted this season in accordance with the club calendar.

•           During a Nipper Championship day as much as possible, each event will be conducted in accordance with the Surf Life Saving Australia Competition Manual. The coach of each discipline will assume designation of sectional referee.

•           Any appeal or protest shall be determined in accordance with the Surf Life Saving Australia Competition Manual. The coach of each discipline will adjudicate on any protest in their capacity as sectional referee.

•           There will be an Appeals Committee consisting of the Team Manager and one member of the Junior Activities Executive Committee. This committee will adjudicate on appeals in accordance with the Surf Life Saving Australia Competition Manual.

•           To assist in the conduct of Junior Club Points day, designated personnel will be responsible for the recording and organisation of the day.

•           Any parent, Nipper or spectator who does not adhere to the SLSQ Code of Conduct will be asked to leave the area until the finalisation of the competition. It is the responsibility of all parents to make themselves familiar with and adhere to the Members Code of Conduct which is contained in this member handbook.

Accumulation of Points on Nipper Championship day

•           1st, 2nd, 3rd place getters will be awarded trophies / medallion’s in all disciplines.

.

•           For U11 to U14s Points will be awarded to the first six (6) placegetters in each male/female event. The first placegetter gaining 6 points, the sixth placegetter gaining 1 point. The points awarded from Nipper Championship Day will accumulate towards the end of season awards for AGE Champion. There will only be ONE award given for age champion at the end of the season.

Accumulation of Points – Season Awards

•           To be eligible for any Junior Activities Trophies or Awards excluding participation awards at the end of the season presentation the nipper must have attended a minimum of 16 of the 20 Scheduled Nipper Saturday twilight or Sunday morning Nipper training days as seen on the Nipper calendar.

•           Two (2) points will be allocated to each member for their attendance and full participation at each Nipper Twilight or Sunday training day.

•           Points will be deducted at the discretion of the Age Managers on behalf of the Committee for lack of participation and/or behavioural matters.

•           No points will be allocated to a member who signs on and then leaves or does not actively participate during the training day.

•           Members attending other authorised Surf Life Saving Activities on a Nipper training day shall be awarded 2 points for their attendance at these activities. This includes where the member is assisting at a siblings authorised Surf Life Saving activity (e.g. water safety at another carnival).

•           To determine the other end of season awards, a points system will be implemented at each carnival throughout the season. In Finals only, place getters one (1) to six (6) will be awarded points. First will gain 6 points and sixth will gain one (1) point.

•           However, during State and Branch Titles the first 6 place getters will be awarded points with the first receiving twelve (6) points and the sixth placegetter receiving one (1) point.

•           The Team Manager, together with one other Committee member either the Registrar or Chairperson will ensure all carnival results are accurately recorded and submitted to the committee at the end of the season.

Award Selection Criteria

Male and Female Age Champions Awards U8 TO U14

·         Shall be determined on the basis of accumulated points gained from attendance at Nipper training days (twilight and Sundays)

·         Accumulated points attained on the Nipper Championship day

·         Attendance at Carnivals 2 points

·         Placing within first 6 places at SLSC Carnivals (U11 to U14s only)

·         Behaviour and Participation at Nipper Training Days (Twilight and Sundays) and Carnivals

·         QUALIFYING FOR STATE IN IRONPERSON AT BRANCH (TOP 12) – 10 points

·         IF SELECTED FOR INTERBRANCH TEAM – 5 points (U13 & U14)

·         QUALIFYING FOR STATE IN SURF RESCUE PATROL COMP TEAM OR FIRST AID - 5 points (U14)

Beach and Water Champions Awards (Male and Female)

•           Shall be determined on the basis of accumulated points gained during the competitor’s Junior Club Championship day and Carnivals in the respective disciplines;

•           Only competitors in the U11s to U14s are eligible to win these awards.

The following awards:

Male and Female Nipper of the Year – (Chosen from U11 to 14 year old age group)     

•           Shall be chosen on the basis of:

•           Performance 60%

Accumulated points on Junior Club Championship day and interclub competition throughout the season.

•           Participation and Behaviour 30%

Attendance and behaviour at carnivals and training days, and the willingness to compete in both team and individual events at carnivals and training days. This will be determined by the committee.

•           Clubman ship 10%

Willingness of the member to assist and co-operate during club activities. This will be determined by the committee.

Note: Results from team events will not be included in determining the beach and water champions, Male and Female Rookies of the year and Male and Female Club person of the Year Awards

Long Service Awards

This award is presented to Nippers who have actively participated throughout ALL age groups from Under 9s to Under 14s as a participant in Surf Life Saving Australia. To be eligible for the award Nippers must have attended at least 80% of Nipper Sundays throughout each age group.

Club Captains

Dicky Beach Nippers encourages our members to embrace leadership roles within the club as outlined in our club objectives. When selecting Club Captains, it is the club’s intention to further develop our young leaders. Club Captains have opportunities to represent the club at various development camps during the season.

The Junior Activities Committee or their nominated representatives are responsible for the selection of Club Captains on an annual basis, on most occasions a female and male will be selected for these roles. The selection and nomination for Club Captain is based, but not wholly included, on the following criteria:

•           Commitment

•           Longevity at club

•           Proven Team Player

•           General behaviour – participation on Sundays and in carnivals

•           Involvement in club activities including fundraising events

•           Involvement in other nipper and surf lifesaving activities throughout the club

The Committee will conduct interviews for these positions. To be eligible for such a position, the Nipper must have been a continual member of the Dicky Beach Nippers since 9 years of age. Following the selection process, there may be times where there are a number of suitable applicants, the Committee has the option to either appoint vice captains or co-captains. Nominees for the positions of Nipper Club Captains shall be evaluated by the committee according to their contribution and behaviour over a period of several years to determine the best and most suitable candidates.

References

Surf Lifesaving Australia [SLSA] website   -  www.slsa.com.au

Surf Lifesaving Queensland [SLSQ] website - www.lifesaving.com.au

Dicky Beach Surf Lifesaving Club [DBSLSC] website -  www.dickybeachsurfclub.com