LAKE MACQUARIE is set to light up when the inaugural Float Your Boat sails onto the lake.
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The event will see a brightly lit flotilla set sail on June 16 from Marmong Point Marina cruising to Elleebana and Valentine, docking at Belmont.
On June 17, watercraft will depart from Marmong Point Marina heading for Toronto, Coal Point, Fishing Point and finishing up at Wangi Wangi.
Participants will dress up their boats with lights, creating a “magical” effect. They will then sail at a rate of 4 knots across the lake.
They are expected to arrive at their destinations about 8pm on both nights.
Lake Macquarie City Council’s manager of cultural services Jacqui Hemsley said the Lake’s boaties and the broader community had shown strong support for the event.
“Float Your Boat has definitely created a buzz in the community,” Ms Hemsley said.
“People are excited about the new event. Float Your Boat is all about experimentation and being creative.
“With more than 20 boats participating, it is just the beginning and we hope that it will set the standard from which we can build a successful event in future years.”
Lake Macquarie Business Tourism Chairperson, Gordon Maxwell, said he hoped the event would promote the region.
“We look forward to seeing the on-water spectacle and hope all the participants have a wonderful night,” Mr Maxwell said.
Belmont 16s CEO, Scott Williams, said the unique event was a great way to highlight the beauty and significance of Lake Macquarie.
“We wish all of the participants the best of luck and look forward to watching both flotilla parades,” Mr Williams said.
And there are some great cash prizes to be won for entrants.
- Best in Show, sponsored by Lake Macquarie Business, $2,500.
- People’s Choice Award, sponsored by Marmong Point Marina, $1,000.
- Best Boat (10m and over), sponsored by Belmont 16s, $750.
- Best Boat (5m–10m), sponsored by Lake Macquarie Tourism, $750.
If you would like to enter your boat in Float Your Boat expressions of interest are still open via the council’s website: lakemac.com.au