Captain Paul Buchanan confirmed that 480 nippers had registered with the club, with record numbers coming from not only Port Fairy (200) but also Melbourne, with inner-east suburb Hawthorn having 15 members join the club.

Buchannan praised the efforts of nippers co-ordinator Nicole Dwyer.

“She has had a stellar season,” he said.

“She has worked hard over a number of years and the results are showing in our member numbers.”

Dwyer highlighted that nippers was not just an activity for the kids, but also parents.

“The most surprising thing nippers families find about the program is just how inclusive it really can be for the whole family, no matter your abilities or skills, there is a place for all family members in lifesaving,” she said.

“Nippers and clubs are a wonderful place to meet new people from varied backgrounds for a common goal to enjoy and be safe in and around water.”

The nippers concluded their final session of the season on Sunday at East Beach with the nipper club championships, where Demi Sharp was named the club’s champion nipper.