The Melbourne bayside suburb of Frankston will transform into an enchanting city of sandcastles, dragons and other mythical creatures when the Australian Sand Sculpting Championships return this month.
The event, running from 28 March to 26 April, will feature 18 giant sculptures carved from more than 400 tonnes of sand on the waterfront at the gateway to the Mornington Peninsula. This year's theme is The Enchanted Realm and will see 15 Australian and international sand sculptors battle it out for the coveted Aidan J Graham Champion Title. They have eight days to complete their masterpieces, with an additional three epic exhibition sculptures – weighing up to 50 tonnes – completing the public display.
The event will feature sculpture talks, a light show, food trucks and interactive installations where visitors can get their hands dirty building their own sand creations. The public can also vote for their favourite sculpture in the Eastlink People’s Choice Awards.
Championships founder Sharon Redmond of Sandstorm Events says this year’s event will be bigger, better and more affordable than ever. “We’re excited to see what this year’s contenders can achieve, including some new international artists coming out to [try and] take the Aussie crown."
Tickets cost $24 for adults ($19 concession) and $14 for kids. Family passes are also available.
