Lifesavers’ competing demands

Kai Thompson wins gold.

By Hollie Harris

Despite the National Titles, which at present are being held in Perth and drawing lots of lifesavers from their clubs the Noosa Seahorse Nippers on Saturday morning still had enough members to work as helpers; thus ensuring that the little people were as always, properly supervised.
A spokesman for the nippers Nikki Mawby said, “We are very grateful for the support we received; word obviously got around and a mixture of parents and other patrol members were on hand to help. At present we have a very good youth membership and they are only too happy to be involved.’’
With sand erosion and seas still a problem the nippers were again shifted to the Lions Park. Big Peter Williams a senior helper said, “When you talk to the kids they all like the Park but they want to get back to Main Beach; it’s their beach and they love it.”
On Saturday and Sunday morning the IRB squads were once again in training at Noosa with six crewies being put through their paces; all being well their final assessments will be conducted this weekend.
With consistent big surf over the last couple of weeks the role of the IRBs performing courtesy patrols from Noosa to National Park and Sunshine patrolling into Alexandria Bay, the role of the IRB has again come into the forefront. As a result the training of these teams has become never ending.
In the rookie department Noosa last week had 9 Bronze and 9 SRC successfully complete their final assessment. “This is always well received,” said Education Manager Greg McLaughlin. “The new members add to our patrol roster and with our crowds on the increase this is of the utmost importance.”
Results coming in from the National Titles at Perth indicate that for our two clubs Sunshine Beach and Noosa it has definitely been a great start; no surf but great results.
For Sunshine Beach in the Youth Category their u/15 Surf Team Jade Hooper, Francesca McKinley, Grace Otto and Abbie Tolano won gold and in the u/15 Iron Woman, Sarah Perkins won silver. Then to finish the day in the u/14 iron woman Abbie Tolano received her second medal when she won the bronze.
Michelle Burnett Lifesaving Manager said, “Coach Josh Minogue is over the moon with these results from such a small team.”
Competing for Noosa in the u/15 beach events Kai Thompson won gold in both the sprint and the beach flags; and in the swims Kareena Lee won gold in the elite female ocean swim and Nick Sloman won the gold in the mens. This has been an outstanding performance from young Kai, for to win both the sprint and the flags is indeed somewhat unique. A great start for both clubs.
The long awaited renovations for the Surf Club at Noosa are finally under way and general manager Anton Mogg and staff are smiling. “Things are really moving. I would like to apologies to our customers for any inconvenience it may cause: we will certainly keep our supporters updated,” said Mr.Mogg.