The Gippsland Lakes Boat Show will launch for the first time from 27 February to 1 March 2026, delivering a major new boating event to one of Australia’s most celebrated inland waterways. Set along the Paynesville Esplanade, in the heart of East Gippsland, the show will showcase boats, marine technology, fishing, lifestyle and on water experiences, all framed by the calm, sheltered waters of the Gippsland Lakes.
Australia’s largest inland waterway system, the Gippsland Lakes spans more than 600 square kilometres and includes Lake King, Lake Victoria and Lake Wellington. Protected from the Southern Ocean by Ninety Mile Beach, the region is widely regarded as one of the country’s most versatile boating destinations. The lakes offer ideal conditions for sailing, cruising, fishing, paddling and wildlife spotting, with easy access to waterfront towns such as Paynesville, Metung and Lakes Entrance, free public jetties and well maintained navigation channels.
The new Boat Show has been purpose built around this environment. Visitors can expect a strong mix of trailer boats, dayboats, cruising yachts, inflatables and lifestyle craft, along with the latest marine engines, electronics and fishing technology. Several New Zealand boat brands will feature prominently, including Extreme Boats, exhibiting both through Inverloch Marine and a dedicated Extreme Boats stand. Stabicraft and Surtees will appear via MY Marine, showcasing designs well suited to sheltered lakes, rivers and estuarine boating.
A broad range of well known Australian and international boat brands will also be on display. Bar Crusher Boats will present their plate aluminium fishing platforms built for strength and offshore confidence. Beneteau will bring its globally recognised sailing and powerboat designs, blending performance with comfort. Highfield Boats will showcase their aluminium RIB range, valued for durability and versatility. Saxdor Yachts will highlight their modern, Scandinavian inspired dayboats, while Sea Ray Boats will represent premium sports cruisers focused on family boating and entertaining. Stejcraft will add an Australian built runabout and bowrider option, long favoured for local conditions.
Major marine brands will round out the exhibitor lineup. Garmin will present marine electronics spanning chartplotters, sonar and integrated systems. Honda Marine, Mercury Marine and Yamaha will each display outboard ranges known for reliability and innovation, while Minn Kota will showcase electric trolling motors and boat control technology popular with anglers.
The Gippsland Lakes Boat Show will run alongside the much loved Paynesville Classic Boat Rally, creating a festival atmosphere across the weekend. The Rally brings a fleet of classic and historic vessels to the lakes, from tall ships and traditional sailing craft to vintage motorboats and skiffs. On water highlights include the Grand Parade through McMillan Strait into Lake Victoria, while onshore displays line the foreshore with restored boats, music and maritime stalls.
Adding further depth to the weekend is the Bream Cup 2026, a two day competitive fishing tournament targeting big Gippsland Lakes bream, with a $15,000 cash prize pool, live weigh ins and professional angler demonstrations.
Across the water at Raymond Island, the Car and Bike Show, presented by Variety, the Children’s Charity, will bring classic cars and custom bikes to The Abbey on Saturday afternoon, adding motorsport, food and entertainment to an already packed programme.
From boats and fishing to heritage, music and family friendly events, the Gippsland Lakes Boat Show launches in 2026 as a new centrepiece for boating in Victoria, celebrating both the waterways and the lifestyle that surrounds them.
Learn more: https://www.gippslandlakesboatshow.com.au/
