Moira Shire's youngest water enthusiasts are being encouraged to register for Bush Nippers 2026, with the popular water safety program expanding to serve families in both Cobram and Yarrawonga for the first time.
The program, returning for its fourth year, teaches vital water safety and lifesaving skills to children aged 5-14 through fun activities specifically tailored to regional inland waterways.
Bush Nippers 2026 will run in January at Thompson's Beach Cobram-Barooga and at Lake Mulwala in Yarrawonga, with registrations now open.
Moira Shire Council Chair Administrator Dr Graeme Emonson said it was fantastic to have an expanded program available for more families.
"The Murray River and Lake Mulwala are among our region's greatest assets, but they can present dangers if people aren't familiar with that location, especially young children," he said.
"Bush Nippers is a great program to help children learn essential water safety skills and gain confidence in a safe environment."
Bush Nippers focusses on building practical skills, including water safety and survival skills, rescue, environmental awareness and physical skills.
It will have hands-on activities including emergency response training, survival techniques with lifejackets, rescue skills using various equipment, safe water entry and exit methods, body boarding safety, swimming survival skills, and beach activities like flags and sprints.
All activities are designed to be age-appropriate and engaging while building essential water safety knowledge and practical lifesaving skills.
The program is delivered through partnership between Life Saving Victoria, Moira Shire Council, Barooga Aquatic Recreation Centre and YMCA.
Registrations are open now:
Cobram Program
Dates: 6 January to 8 January; OR 13 January to 15 January 2026 Duration: 3-day *Option of Week One or Two
Location: Thompsons Beach, Cobram
For: Children aged 5 to 13 years. Limited spots available Register via: https://baroogaarc.perfectmind.coma
Yarrawonga Program
Dates: 20 to 22 January 2026
Location: Frank Keenan Reserve, Yarrawonga Yacht Club
For: Children aged 5 to 13 years. Limited spots available Register via: https://forms.office.com/r/t02RmVpPra
