By Ron Lane
Saturday morning on Noosa’s Main Beach another season of the Noosa Seahorse Nippers came to an end. The function to mark the occasion said it all. With some 28 of our little Seahorse Nippers surrounded by 60 helpers and their proud parents and supporters, the laughter and joking told all involved that the six years of hard work and dedication was indeed time well spent.
To start the occasion chairman Steve Mawby and wife Nicky (founders of the Seahorse Nippers) congratulated the children for their efforts and the helpers for their time and dedication. He also extended apologies on behalf of Dawn Fraser AO,MBE, who because of interstate business was unable to attend. Along with Jordy Mercer, both ladies are actively involved as Patrons.
It is now a Seahorse tradition that at the finish of a season each Nipper is presented with a small trophy and certificate of congratulations for their participation in the events; events held every morning during their season. This was done by Jordy Mercer and a senior representative of the Noosa Heads. SLSC.
As with all successful organisations such as this, their support group is of the utmost importance. Quietly working behind the scenes, one group in particular is priceless; and with their big white shirts and caps they are easy to spot.
To all involved they are proudly known by their catchy name; the Seahorse Volunteers. They drive the club bus from Lions Park to the beach, help families whose children are in need of wheel chairs and at the finish of the mornings do the same, only in reverse: beach back to the Park.
To be able to eliminate the problems of parking for parents their work is really appreciated. Also the support of our local shire council with regard to parking,is noted by all.
On Saturday before the briefing it was good to see the number of young members amongst the sixty helpers: some just home from the Australian titles in Perth where they had successfully helped write a new chapter in the competition history of their club. Competing for Noosa then back home helping those children in need ;that is what lifesaving is all about.
Over the hill at Sunshine Beach the rebuilding program is quietly moving forward. While in meeting with a club official to help identify original members from years back, one could not help but notice the architectures drawings of what the completed clubhouse will be.
To say that they present a modern concept is an understatement. For his vision and enterprise architecture Andrew Bock is to be congratulated. The finished project is sure to be the envy of many clubs on the Queensland coast. I am confident that club sponsors will, with a feeling of pride point at the building and say, “That’s my club.” Good luck to all involved.
To any of you out there who had grandfathers or great uncles involved and have photos of such I am sure the club would be only happy to talk. Give the Sunshine Beach Surf Club a call on 54475491.extension 5.
