Queenscliff Sand Sculpture Contest returns

ON SATURDAY, January 4, visitors to the Queenscliff beach can expect to see fairytale castles, mythical monsters and more, all prowling the sand along the shoreline.

But don’t worry, it is only entries in the annual Queenscliff Sand Sculpture Contest.

The event, hosted by Queenscliffe Neighbourhood House, will take place next to Pilot’s Jetty in Tobin Drive.

After competitors show off their sand sculpting skills, people are welcome to return to the Neighbourhood House where there will be a performance by Sea of Ukes and a barbecue run by Queenscliff and Districts Men’s Shed.

There will also be wine and second-hand books on sale.

With the event entering its 22nd year, Queenscliffe Neighbourhood House co-ordinator Carolyn Williams said selecting the right date and time is key to creating a great event.

“The challenge is to get the right tide times so the sculptures don’t get washed away, so we have to find a time of day where it is mid-tide but going out.

“It’s a great success. People come year after year and they look for it when they come on holidays to Queenscliff and the locals love it as well.”

The contest has categories for individuals and groups as well as participants of different ages.

For each category there will be prizes for first, second and third. New Borough of Queenscliffe mayor Ross Ebbels will also be present as one of the judges.

The cost of entry is $10 for a group and $5 for an individual.

The event will run from 11am-1pm, with registrations opening at 10:30am.