Teenagers nominated for Pride of Australia medals for Seahorse Nippers program

MEET the inspirational volunteers brightening the lives of children with special needs by introducing them to the joys of the ocean.

MEET the inspirational volunteers brightening the lives of children with special needs by introducing them to the joys of the ocean.

The Seahorse Nippers program, launched by Noosa Heads Surf Life Saving Club, is a state first, and so successful it also has been adopted at Redcliffe and is being looked at by many other clubs.

The initiative allows children otherwise unable to take part in nippers to enjoy the thrilling beach and surf activities that so many take for granted.

For their vital, hands-on roles, Sunshine Coast teenagers Lachie Landsdown, 18, and Alexandra Nolan, 17, have been nominated for 2014 Pride of Australia medals in the Community Spirit category.

This recognises an individual or group whose selfless, tireless and largely unacknowledged actions have enriched other lives.

Lachie said the program had been an uplifting exper­ience for carers as well as participants.

“These are children who would never get to do nippers like other kids,” he said.

“It’s amazing to see how much they grow in confidence. One of the boys I look after has autism and was ­terrified to go in the water, unless I carried him.

“By the end of the second season, he was running into the surf. We had to chase him out when it was time to do beach sprints. It was pretty cool to see.”

Alexandra said it had been “an incredible experience”.

“The best part was forming a close bond with the children over the four-week programs.”

Program organiser Steve Mawby said Lachie and Alexandra were typical of the many young volunteers who made the Seahorse initiative a success.

“They are caring, supportive and have plenty of energy. They connect so well with the participants and this is crucial. We are very proud of them,” he said