Junior surf lifeguard season set to begin

 

Registration for the 2018-19 season is underway as the Mangawhai Heads Volunteer Lifeguard Service lines up another summer of fun at the surf beach.

The hugely popular junior surf lifesaving programme kicks off on October 28 and parents are urged to register their children as soon as possible or risk missing out. 

Open to children between 4 and 13 years old, the programme is designed to promote water safety, surf sense, fitness, camaraderie and fun in a friendly and safe environment.

Children progress though age appropriate levels of beach and water skills each season, building the skills needed to prepare for their Bronze lifeguard award from the age of 14. 

Children aged 7 and over can also choose to participate in regional inter-club carnivals from December and members aged 10 to 13 can choose to compete at Northern Region Championships in February and National Championships in March.

“Even if your child does not wish to be a lifeguard or compete at competitions, the programme is a valuable environment for energetic kids who want to have a good time, learn new skills and spend time at our beautiful surf beach,” says junior surf coordinator, Inez McDonald. 

Parents who wish to help with coaching, or other support assistance, or helping run the BBQ are also welcome.

Held every Sunday between 10am to 12 noon, the programme is run entirely by volunteers, meaning enrolment numbers are strictly limited and all parents are expected to stay beachside during trainings.

There will be no junior surf registration days at the club this year, so get online to mhvls.com, or email mangawhaisurfclub@xtra.co.nz for a registration form. 

Mangawhai Junior Surf coordinators Vanessa Fulton and Inez MacDonald will be at Mangawhai Beach School’s Ag Day this Labour weekend to meet new families and answer any questions about the programme.

Parents and caregivers can stay informed throughout the season by joining the Mangawhai Heads Junior Surf Facebook page.

The flags officially go out on December 1 this year, with the later start ensuring student lifeguards can focus on their end of year exams and the beach is patrolled when people typically start their summer swimming.