Giant lizard set to walk on water for Float Your Boat

The humble goanna will get its moment in the spotlight – quite literally – on Friday evening as the 2021 Float Your Boat festival sets sail.

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Boaties and artists were putting the finishing touches to their illuminated creations on Thursday in preparation for the event, which will see a flotilla of vessels motoring around the lake from Marmong Point to Wangi Wangi.

They included artist duo Indeah Clark and Tamahae Puha, who have created a giant neon goanna to be attached to the side of a boat.

“We wanted to glorify the humble goanna,” Clark said.

“We want people to have fun with it and see the colours, and see something familiar they can have a giggle at.”

“I can’t wait to see it lit up on the boat because it looks completely different once it’s lit up.”

Friday night’s festivities include a live-site at Toronto foreshore from 5-9.30pm and feature live music, magic shows, illuminated art installations, children’s activities and food trucks. There will also be a community bonfire and live entertainment at Wangi Wangi.

Lake Macquarie Mayor Cr Kay Fraser is looking forward to Friday night’s event and encourages the community to come out and enjoy a great night out.

“It’s going to be a fantastic night on the water and on shore, with plenty of free entertainment and activities for everyone. It’s always a whole lot of fun, so rug up and come out and see all the amazing creations light up the lake” she said.

Forecast wet and windy weekend weather has prompted the cancellation of Saturday’s Float Your Boat instalment, which would have seen the flotilla navigate the eastern side of Lake Macquarie from Marmong Point to Belmont.

Marmong Point Marina Managing Director Les Binkin said the focus now was on making Friday night special for everyone.

“The weather should be good, and it will be blowing from the west so it will be protected in most places,” he said.

“It’s great having the community down at the marina for this event – seeing the happy children and families along the shore.”

Boats participating in Float Your Boat will be in the running to win a $2000 People’s Choice Award, a Mayor’s Best Boat Award for vessels 5-10m, and a Mayor’s Best Boat Award for vessels over 10m.

Fans can go in the running to win a $100 gift card by casting a vote for their favourite boat following the weekend’s action.

Go to lakemac.com.au/floatyourboat for more information.