NEWCASTLE nippers will get back on the sand and launch into the ocean this weekend with the start of their season.
Though, the weather may produce some cool conditions for the kids aged between five and 14 years-old, with showers, thunderstorms and fresh winds on the radar for Saturday and Sunday.
Bureau of Meteorology's Gabrielle Woodhouse said a southerly change was due to arrive on Friday night bringing a chance of showers and storms in the afternoon through the southern parts of the Hunter and towards the coast.
"We'll see a maximum temperature of 25 but Saturday and into Sunday we'll see some cooler conditions with Saturday jumping down to 20 degrees," she said.
Ms Woodhouse said there are no surf or boating hazard warnings out but urged water-goers to keep an eye on the strength of the southerly change that will bring winds.
"We're looking at fairly fresh winds that may strengthen on Saturday so it's always worthwhile keeping up-to date with the latest weather changes on the BOM app or website," she said.
Thousands of nippers from across the Hunter are planning to throw on their signature pink rash shirts and dive into a summer of surf safety and fun on Sunday, October 13.
The program is designed to teach essential skills like CPR, rescue techniques, and surf awareness while giving participants the chance to enjoy fun, beach-based activities in a safe environment.
Last season, over 3,000 young surf lovers joined the Hunter program, with support from Newcastle Permanent.
Hunter Surf Life Saving president Henry Scruton ESM said the program was designed to grow with the children as they get older.
"For the younger ones, nippers is all about getting comfortable in the sand and waves, but as they get older, they start learning the real skills needed to become surf lifesavers," he said.
"The support we receive ensures the Nippers program continues to grow each year. With the continued support of Newcastle Permanent - over 40 years strong - we're able to offer this valuable program to more families across the region," Scruton added.
Paul Juergens, Chief Distribution Officer at Newcastle Permanent, said the organisation is thrilled to be supporting Nippers again.
"Nippers is a brilliant opportunity for kids to not only develop vital water safety skills but also to build confidence and enjoy everything the beach has to offer," Mr Juergens said.
"It's fantastic to see so many families making the most of this program each year, and of course, those bright pink rashies have become a beachside staple. We're proud that the support we give ensures this tradition continues to benefit the community year after year."
Nippers is held across 13 clubs in the Hunter, from Catherine Hill Bay to Tea Gardens Hawks Nest, and registrations are still open. For more information, visit www.surflifesaving.com.au/nippers/.
Last year, Newcastle Permanent supported more than 10,000 Nippers across Surf Life Saving Clubs from the Central Coast to Queensland.
