Nippers to the Rescue

On beaches throughout the country, thousands of lifesaving rescues have been performed by lifesavers and even a group of nippers from Tallebudgera Beach, Queensland have got in on the action.

In late February, a man and two boys were close to drowning when a group of nippers in the midst of training were alerted and came to their rescue.

The team of nippers instinctively jumped on their rescue boards and paddled into the surf to bring the man and two boys safely back to shore.

One of the nippers, Rebecca Micallef, 13, said there had been no time to think, she just acted immediately.

“There were three people in the surf who were in trouble and we just got on our boards and started paddling out there,” she said.

In addition to Rebecca, nippers Daniel Walker and David King, both 12, took turns in towing the man back safely to shore.

“He was hanging on to the back and me and Dave paddled him back in,” said Daniel.

The successful rescue caused a great sensation among the group. The rescue was the first for these courageous youngsters and all were thrilled they could put their training into a real-life situation.

“It was pretty exciting being able to rescue someone,” said Rebecca. “I’m in nippers because I love the beach and I want to help save lives.”

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