Nippers show their new skills

Alex de Vos
More than 1000 budding athletes from around Victoria will showcase their new lifesaving abilities at the annual Cosy Corner Junior Carnival at Torquay.
Nipper administrator Tania Curtis said today’s (Friday) event was designed to give junior participants a “taste of surf lifesaving competitions”.
“It’s about introducing the children to the idea of participating in surf lifesaving and giving them an understanding about what happens at a carnival,” Ms Curtis said.
“On the day children will be awarded first, second and third but it’s more about getting everyone involved and having fun.”
She expected Torquay to put up a good fight against rival competitors from around the state.
“We always do really well,” she said.
Life Saving Victoria’s Kate Comer said the event at Cosy Corner was the second largest carnival on the organisation’s summer calendar.
“Each year the Cosy Corner Junior Carnival becomes bigger and better than the last,” Ms Comer said.
“It’s fantastic to see such a large involvement from our junior lifesavers, as it really showcases the enthusiasm for lifesaving as a sport,” Ms Comer said.
She said the event would include a “mix of water and beach” competitions.
“For many nippers it’s the start of their competition days and one that they’ll never forget.”
The Cosy Corner Junior Carnival kicks off at 9am.