The Gannawarra's watersports bonanza

Published on 02 February 2022

Watersports enthusiasts will converge on the Gannawarra between February and April 2022 with five events planned across an 11-week period.

Ski Racing Victoria, the Victorian Outboard Club and Jettin Vic have confirmed that Kangaroo Lake and Lake Charm will host on-water events during this period, which will attract participants and spectators to the Gannawarra at a much-needed time for businesses.

“The Gannawarra is renowned for its waterways, and these three organisations’ commitment to proceed with events at this time demonstrates the interest the watersports community has with the area,” Mayor Charlie Gillingham said.

Following the recent announcement of the postponement of the Southern 80 ski race to May, Ski Racing Victoria has moved its Point Score 3 event originally planned for late February to 12-13 February at Kangaroo Lake, with the Point Score 4 originally planned for early April to now occur at Lake Charm on 26-27 February.

“This decision means that Kangaroo Lake and Lake Charm, which is to hold the Point Score 5 event in late April, will now host three lead-up events prior to the Southern 80, which is a coup for the Gannawarra,” Mayor Gillingham said.

“These meets mean more than just on-water action, with accommodation providers and retail outlets to benefit from the influx of people looking to stay and dine whilst in the Gannawarra.”

A similar influx is anticipated throughout March, with both waterways to host events throughout the month.

Jettin Vic will bring its jet ski racing program to Kangaroo Lake during 5-6 March, whilst the Victorian Outboard Club’s Archer Eade Memorial Event will be held at Lake Charm on 19 March.

“Lake Charm has been associated with the Archer Eade Memorial Event since 2015, which attracts many of Victoria’s top powerboat teams compete whilst raising funds for Red Nose Australia,” Mayor Gillingham said.

“Although Jettin Vic is a relatively new addition to the Gannawarra, 2022 will be the second year this popular emerging sport is occurring locally, which will again attract participants and spectators to the area.”

Residents are advised that lake closures will be in place whilst these meets are occurring, with details to be published at www.gsc.vic.gov.au/water-events