Safety first
Keep the beach safe: the Nippers program encourages children to learn water safety.
Surf Life Saving Queensland hosts a "nippers" program to promote safety on the water and encourage children into the profession.
While Cairns lacks the large surf of southern centres, it has a strong history of surf life saving culture.
Most beaches in the greater Cairns area are patrolled regularly by lifeguards, ensuring swimmers are both safe and comfortable when they visit the beach.
The Nippers program teaches children first aid, water safety, healthy living and the dangers of marine stingers.
Based at several locations around Cairns, including Ellis Beach and the Esplanade Lagoon, the program is a great way to keep kids fit, learn teamwork and health and safety in Far North Queensland.
Children learn board riding, swimming techniques, rescue and first aid.
A special Far North Queensland component on marine stingers and other potential hazards such as crocodiles also is an integral part of the course.
So next time your taking a swim, spare a thought for the lifeguard looking over your shoulder - they are there to keep you safely enjoying your fun in Far North Queensland.
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