Six little heroes

It was Easter Sunday, 2018, and at a popular spot on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast known as Happy Valley, near the mouth of the Pumicestone River, six nippers from the local Caloundra Metropolitan Club were surfing on their racing boards. Close mates, Tai Lyon, 14, Maggie Princehorn, 12, Jade Gardiner, Lily Taylor, Ryan Dunshea and Molly Webster, all 13, were proficient in the surf, and knew the area was unpatrolled and prone to strong rips.

When they noticed two groups of swimmers in strife, they knew exactly what had to be done. With military precision, their nipper training swung into action. They coordinated a relay of rescues, successfully dragging all seven swimmers to safety.

Jade has written a note for The Weekly readers, explaining what it means to her to be a nipper, and how the six buddies will be friends for life:

“It happened so quickly,” Jade writes, “there were so many people in trouble at the same time. Our nipper training kicked in and we reacted instantly. Board rescue is my favourite team event. The only difference was [the swimmers] were exhausted so they couldn’t help us much.

“By the time I reached my third and final person, Maggie came over to help me. I was also physically exhausted. It was hard work but that is what we are trained to do, we love doing it.

“Nippers builds surf awareness, teamwork, and long-lasting friendships based on a strong sense of trust and respect. We’ve all since completed our Surf Rescue Certificate and are now active patrol members.

“My mum and dad were nippers and lifesavers when they were young and are now a part of it again as adults. My brothers and sister also do nippers. There is no better way to spend a Sunday morning, with your family at the beach together.”