Imagine soaking in a sauna while floating on a serene lake, surrounded by nature's beauty. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, for the residents and visitors of Beechworth, this dream is now a reality. But here's where it gets controversial... Not everyone was on board with this innovative idea, and some even feared it would turn into a 'party pontoon'. So, how did this Scandinavian-inspired floating sauna on Lake Sambell come to life, and what makes it so unique? Let's dive in.
Beechworth entrepreneur Michael Patterson has successfully turned his vision into a reality, despite facing numerous challenges. His floating sauna, inspired by a similar venture in Tasmania, officially opened its doors on October 17, with an impressive 80 bookings already secured. Patterson, who also runs a coffee cart, emphasized the community-centric nature of the project, stating, 'This whole thing is about community.'
And this is the part most people miss... The sauna isn't just about relaxation; it's also about health. 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. This unique offering has already attracted customers from nearby towns like Albury, Wodonga, Wangaratta, and Bright.
The journey to launch wasn't without hurdles. Patterson noted, 'There were a lot of hoops to jump through because it's something new, but you just have to work through them.' Now operational, the sauna employs three staff members and runs from 8 am to 9 pm, accommodating up to six people at a time, though five is ideal. The structure, powered by solar panels and built with hardwood, is completely off-grid, floating just south of the Lake Sambell playground.
Here’s where opinions might differ... Some initial objectors feared the sauna would become a hub for alcohol consumption. Patterson clarified, 'Grog and saunas don't go together,' ensuring a family-friendly environment. This clarification highlights the importance of community engagement and addressing concerns head-on.
The project gained strong support from former Indigo Shire deputy mayor Bernard Gaffney, who championed it as 'the only floating sauna on mainland Australia.' At the launch, Gaffney praised the initiative, saying, 'He who dares wins. I have no doubt this floating sauna will be a winner, not only for Beechworth but for all of Indigo Shire.'
As the sauna welcomes its first guests, it’s not just a win for tourism but also a testament to the power of vision and perseverance. But here’s a thought-provoking question for you... Do you think unique ventures like this floating sauna can truly strengthen community bonds, or are they just a passing trend? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
