Imagine a serene lake, a floating sanctuary of warmth amidst the cool waters, and a community buzzing with excitement. That's exactly what's happening at Lake Sambell in Beechworth, where a brand-new floating sauna has already garnered 80 bookings before its official launch! But here's where it gets intriguing: this isn’t just another wellness trend—it’s a bold venture that’s sparking conversations and even a bit of controversy.
Beechworth entrepreneur Michael Patterson, the mastermind behind Still Water Saunas (https://stillwatersaunas.com.au/), has turned his Scandinavian-inspired dream into reality after navigating a maze of regulatory hurdles. The sauna, which softly launched on October 16, officially opens its doors on October 17, with 18 eager visitors already booked for the following day. These early adopters hail from nearby towns like Beechworth, Albury, Wodonga, Wangaratta, and Bright, proving that the allure of this unique experience transcends borders.
But here’s the part most people miss: Patterson’s journey wasn’t without its challenges. 'There were a lot of hoops to jump through because it’s something new, but you just have to work through them,' he explains. Now, with three staff members on board and Patterson himself manning the coffee cart, the sauna is ready to welcome visitors from 8am to 9pm. Inspired by a similar floating sauna in Tasmania—a project his business partner, construction specialist Andrew Cairns, was involved in—Patterson saw an opportunity to bring this concept to Beechworth.
'Our location is perfect,' Patterson notes. 'We’re close to major hubs like Wangaratta, Albury, Melbourne airport, and Bright, yet Beechworth retains that charming community feel. You can walk its streets at the end of the day and truly feel connected—that’s what this project is all about: community.'
And this is where it gets controversial: Some locals initially feared the sauna would become a 'party pontoon,' with concerns about alcohol consumption. 'I had to clarify that grog and saunas don’t mix,' Patterson laughs. 'This is a space for relaxation and wellness, not partying.'
The sauna, which floats just south of the Lake Sambell playground, offers more than just a cozy retreat. Patterson encourages visitors to explore 'contrast therapy,' a practice involving alternating between the sauna’s heat and the lake’s cold water to boost circulation. 'It’s not just about relaxing; it’s about rejuvenating your body,' he explains. The sauna can accommodate up to six people, though five is ideal. 'Three couples would fit perfectly,' Patterson adds.
The project’s launch was officially celebrated by Tourism North East CEO Bess Nolan-Cook and former Indigo Shire deputy mayor Bernard Gaffney, a long-time supporter of the venture. Gaffney, now retired from council, recalls the challenges and triumphs of getting the project approved. 'He who dares wins,' he declared at the opening. 'This floating sauna will be a winner, not just for Beechworth, but for all of Indigo Shire.'
But here’s a thought-provoking question: Is this floating sauna just a novelty, or is it a game-changer for regional tourism? Gaffney believes it’s the latter, calling it the only floating sauna on mainland Australia. 'People with vision and initiative make things happen,' he says. 'This project had massive community support, and it’s a testament to what’s possible when we back bold ideas.'
The sauna, powered entirely by solar panels and built with sustainable hardwood, is more than just a wellness retreat—it’s a symbol of innovation and community spirit. So, what do you think? Is this floating sauna a brilliant addition to Beechworth, or just a passing fad? Let us know in the comments—we’d love to hear your thoughts!
