Mona Vale teenager Tilly Cooper is contributing to local and international community programs through surf lifesaving volunteering, water safety education, and youth-led initiatives based in Mona Vale.
Early Community Involvement in Mona Vale
Tilly Cooper grew up in Mona Vale with strong family connections to surf lifesaving. She began participating in the local Nippers program as a child, developing early experience in water safety and beach awareness.
As she grew older, Tilly took on volunteer responsibilities supporting Under 6 groups and assisting inclusion members who require additional support during weekly Nippers activities in Mona Vale.
Water Safety Observations in Fiji
During a family visit to Fiji, Tilly observed children swimming without appropriate or sun-safe swimwear. Drawing on her surf lifesaving experience in Mona Vale, she identified safety risks associated with swimming in unsuitable clothing.
These observations led Tilly to establish a swimwear collection initiative focused on improving water safety for children in coastal communities.
Community-Driven Collection Effort
Tilly’s initiative encouraged donations of new and gently used swimwear, including rash vests, wetsuits, hats, and footwear. Surf clubs across the Northern Beaches supported the effort by acting as collection points, helping repurpose outgrown items and reduce waste.
The collected items were delivered to Tagaqe Village in Fiji, where families received swimwear better suited to local swimming conditions.
Education and Youth Leadership
Alongside her community service work, Tilly released a children’s book based on a child’s first experience at Nippers. The story focuses on building confidence in the water, family participation, and safety awareness along the coastline.
Tilly’s work received national recognition through a youth leadership challenge. Her project was selected for inclusion in a 2026 education program to be shared in schools across Australia and New Zealand.
Continued Local and International Engagement
Tilly has also received recognition from organisations in Fiji acknowledging her contribution to community service in Tagaqe Village. Locally, she has led a youth-driven e-bike safety awareness initiative, focused on promoting safer riding practices.
She plans to continue supporting community education initiatives while remaining actively involved in surf lifesaving activities in Mona Vale.
Published 31-Dec-2025
