Rippers water safety program returns for second season

The junior program by Surf Life Saving SA will return this Friday at the Murraylands Aquatic Centre.

Rippers water safety program returns for second season
The junior water safety program will return this Friday at the Murraylands Aquatic Centre. Photo: Rural City of Murray Bridge.

A junior water safety program will return to Murray Bridge after its successful inaugural season in 2024.

The Rippers, Nippers on the River program, run by Surf Life Saving South Australia (SLSSA), will return for a second season this week.

Rippers will run weekly on Friday afternoons from February 7 to March 28 at the Murraylands Aquatic Centre at Swanport.

Last year 70 local children participated in the eight-week program, which helped them develop essential water safety skills, build confidence and form lifelong friendships in a fun and educational environment.

Damien Marangon, CEO of SLSSA, said equipping children with essential water safety skills fostered safer communities and a lifelong respect for the water.

"We’re excited to continue working with the Murray Bridge community to make this year’s program even more impactful,” he said.

The program, designed for children aged five to 12, is supported by the South Australian Office for Recreation, Sport and Racing’s Active State Collaboration Program.

Life saving club formed

Building on the program’s success, volunteers from the Rippers program alongside other community members have also established the board of a Murray Bridge Life Saving Club.

This newly established board will not only play a role in delivering this year’s Rippers program, but also focus on creating a sustainable future for the initiative, aiming to evolve into a self-sustaining life-saving club for Murray Bridge.

Mayor Wayne Thorley said it was a fantastic addition to the community, not only staying safe on the river but also encouraging active lifestyles.

“We are proud to support SLSSA in establishing the Murray Bridge Surf Life Saving Club and look forward to witnessing the positive impact it will bring to our region," he said.

"The newly formed board is a testament to our community’s dedication to fostering a safe and thriving future."

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