A new floating sauna on Lake Sambell has already attracted a wave of interest, with a whopping **80 bookings secured even before its official launch!** Beechworth businessman Michael Patterson's Scandinavian-inspired venture is making quite a splash, and it's easy to see why.
To get this dream off the ground, Patterson had to navigate a sea of red tape. The project, which was 'soft-launched' on Thursday, October 16, is now ready to welcome guests. The sauna officially opened for business on Friday, October 17, and was fully booked the next day, showing the high demand.
Still Water Saunas, the company behind this unique experience, has seen all bookings made online. The first customers are coming from Beechworth, Albury, Wodonga, Wangaratta, and Bright.
"There were a lot of hoops to jump through because it's something new, but you just have to work through them," Patterson explained. Now that the sauna is up and running, it employs three staff, and Patterson will still be managing the coffee cart.
But here's where it gets controversial... The inspiration for this floating sauna came from a similar venture in Tasmania, which Patterson's business partner, Andrew Cairns, helped build a bridge to access.
"People go there from all around Australia, and being where we are, our location - close to Wang, Albury, Melbourne airport, Bright - Beechworth is on the trajectory," Patterson said. He also emphasized the community feel of Beechworth, highlighting that the sauna aims to contribute to this sense of community.
Some initial concerns were raised, with some people misunderstanding the project as a 'party pontoon'. Patterson clarified that the sauna is a place of relaxation and wellness, not a venue for alcohol. "You cannot drink on here - definitely not. Grog and saunas don't go together," he stated firmly.
Beyond relaxation, the sauna offers a unique wellness experience. Patterson encourages visitors to explore 'contrast therapy,' which involves alternating between hot and cold temperatures to stimulate circulation.
The sauna, which operates from 8 AM to 9 PM, can accommodate up to six people at a time, although five is considered the optimum number. "If we had three couples, that would work," Patterson noted.
The business was officially launched by Tourism North East chief executive Bess Nolan-Cook and former Indigo Shire deputy mayor Bernard Gaffney. Gaffney, a long-time supporter of the project, believes the sauna has massive community support.
The structure is powered by solar panels and constructed from hardwood, making it an off-grid experience.
"I believe this is the only floating sauna operating on mainland Australia; things don't just happen, people make them happen, people with vision and initiative," Gaffney said. The project was approved at a council meeting on March 26, with Gaffney, then the deputy mayor, supported by the mayor and other councillors.
What do you think about this new venture? Do you believe it will be a success? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
