Imagine a serene lake, a floating sanctuary of warmth amidst the cool Australian air—this is the vision that has captivated the North East, with Michael Patterson’s Scandinavian-inspired floating sauna on Lake Sambell already securing 80 bookings before its grand opening. But here’s where it gets controversial: not everyone was on board with this innovative idea, and the journey to bring it to life was anything but smooth. Let’s dive into the story behind this unique venture and the ripple effects it’s creating in the community.
Michael Patterson, a Beechworth businessman, has turned his dream into reality after navigating a labyrinth of regulations and skepticism. His floating sauna, a first of its kind on mainland Australia, officially opens its doors on Friday, October 17, with 18 eager visitors booked for the following day. The project, which had a soft launch on October 16, has already drawn attention from locals in Beechworth, Albury, Wodonga, Wangaratta, and Bright, all of whom booked their slots online via Still Water Saunas (https://stillwatersaunas.com.au/).
And this is the part most people miss: Patterson’s inspiration came from a similar floating sauna in Tasmania, where his business partner, construction specialist Andrew Cairns, had built the access bridge. Recognizing the potential for such an experience in Beechworth, Patterson saw an opportunity to blend relaxation with community connection. “Beechworth is on the trajectory,” he explains, highlighting its strategic location near major towns and airports. “But what truly sets it apart is the community feel. You can walk the streets here at the end of the day and feel like you’re part of something special. That’s what this sauna is all about—community.”
The structure, floating just south of the Lake Sambell playground, is more than just a place to unwind. Patterson emphasizes its potential for 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 relaxation,” he says. “It’s about rejuvenation.” The sauna, which operates from 8am to 9pm, can accommodate up to six people at a time, though Patterson notes that five is the ideal number for a comfortable experience.
Here’s where opinions start to diverge: Some locals initially feared the sauna would become a “party pontoon,” with concerns about alcohol consumption. Patterson quickly addressed these misconceptions, stating, “Grog and saunas don’t go together. This is a space for wellness, not wild parties.” The structure is entirely off-grid, powered by solar panels, and built with sustainable hardwood, reflecting Patterson’s commitment to both the environment and his vision.
The project’s launch was officially celebrated by Tourism North East CEO Bess Nolan-Cook and former Indigo Shire deputy mayor Bernard Gaffney, a vocal supporter of the initiative. Gaffney, who had championed the project since its proposal in 2023, declared, “He who dares wins. This floating sauna will be a winner, not just for Beechworth, but for all of Indigo Shire.” His enthusiasm underscores the broader community support, though the journey to approval wasn’t without its challenges. Gaffney recalls tabling an alternative motion to secure the project’s approval, highlighting the determination of those who believed in its potential.
As the sauna begins its operations, Patterson remains focused on its core mission: fostering community and wellness. With three staff members on board and Patterson himself manning the coffee cart, the venture is poised to become a local landmark. But the question remains: Will this floating oasis live up to the hype, or will it face ongoing scrutiny from skeptics? What do you think? Is this the kind of innovative project your community needs, or do you share the concerns of those who initially opposed it? Let’s spark a conversation in the comments below!
