Surf Life Saving Illawarra conducts Junior surf carnivals during the season for U/8 to U/14. They are held as competition between nippers of different surf clubs, culminating with the Illawarra Branch Championships followed by the NSW Junior State Championships. They provide an exciting atmosphere for nippers and parents alike and often once a child has attended a carnival, they’re often keen to return. Please refer to the Club calendar for carnival dates.
Club rules and other importanty points to remember regarding carnivals
Eligibility
Any Woonona Stingray in the U/8 to U/14 age groups, subject to Competition proficiency and completion of Surf Education relevant to their age group, may represent our Club in carnivals. However the Club reserves its right, dependent on numbers, to register or select members for carnivals when necessary.
(If your child has only completed the Club proficiency but would like to enter a carnival please contact the Juniors Chairperson.)
Registration
Entries must be received by the closing date advised. It’s the Club’s policy that we will pay all entry fees, however a refundable deposit will be required and held until after the child has attended and taken part in the carnival. Late entries attract an additional fee which will be payable by the parent/guardian.
Officials
It is compulsory for each Club to provide Officials to assist in judging events. Our Club has a small number of officials and it is possible that a parent/guardian may be required to act as an Official for some events. If the correct number of Officials for the day is not provided, our Club may not be able to compete at all.
Parent/Guardian Responsibilities
Parents/guardians:
- are responsible for transporting your child to and from carnivals;
- must remain on the beach the entire period your child is at the carnival;
- may be required to take your child to their nominated event;
- are responsible for your child’s whereabouts between events and their conduct and behaviour during the carnival.
Competition Uniform
Competitors must wear the black and white Woonona skull cap and black swimming costume. In team events (eg, all age relay) the Club’s team must be in like clothing. Caps must be kept on and properly tied during races. If these rules are not followed, the competitor/team could be disqualified.
Meeting point
Meet at the Woonona tent at the start time (usually 8.00am) and report to the Junior Chairperson to have your child’s name entered in the attendance book.
