The event will mark the first time Sandon Point will host the junior event exclusively.

The competition pits the best nippers from the region against each other as they battle it out to be named Illawarra champion. 

However, Kevin Starling from Surf Lifesaving Illawarra said the competition caters to all athletes, with nippers simply required to meet a proficiency standard in order to compete. 

“The event is open to any number of qualified kids,” Starling said. “The only requirement is for clubs to provide volunteers to assist, but there are no restrictions on athlete numbers. 

“In order to qualify, athletes have to prove their proficiency in a swim and a run, general first aid and ocean awareness. Each age group has a different standard and once they meet it, athletes can compete.”