The Boating Industry Association of Victoria (BIAV) has announced the launch of a major new event for regional Victoria, with the inaugural Gippsland Lakes Boat Show to take place from 27 February to 1 March 2026 in Paynesville.
Presented in association with the East Gippsland Shire Council, Gippsland Ports, and Destination Gippsland, and staged alongside the long-established Paynesville Classic Boat Rally, the new show will celebrate the boating lifestyle and provide a vibrant showcase for the region’s marine industry. The event will be supported by the Victorian Government, reflecting the strong partnership between state, local, and industry stakeholders to grow participation in boating and support regional tourism.
A New Destination for Boating Showcases
The Gippsland Lakes Boat Show will transform the Paynesville waterfront into a dynamic exhibition precinct. Berths, on-water demonstrations, marina displays, and on-land exhibits will be complemented by entertainment, education, and hands-on activities for families and enthusiasts. The event will highlight all aspects of boating, from trailerable craft and personal watercraft to yachts, fishing vessels, and associated equipment and accessories.
Paynesville, often referred to as The Heart of the Lakes, is perfectly positioned between Lakes Entrance and Metung, and is recognised as the gateway to Victoria’s stunning east coast waterways. With over 400 square kilometres of interconnected lakes, rivers, and estuaries, the Gippsland Lakes region is one of Australia’s most significant and picturesque boating destinations. The area boasts a strong maritime heritage and an active community of boaters, anglers, and cruising enthusiasts.
Connecting with a Targeted Regional Audience
The Gippsland Lakes Boat Show has been designed to reach audiences across south-east Victoria and southern New South Wales, spanning from Dandenong through to Bermagui. This includes some of the state’s most engaged coastal and inland boating markets, as well as a large population of regional and holidaying visitors who enjoy the boating lifestyle.
Typical attendees are expected to include boaters and potential boat owners, sailors, anglers, cruising crews, personal watercraft owners, and marine lifestyle enthusiasts. The show will also engage local communities, waterfront property owners, and regional tourism operators who play an active role in the Gippsland marine economy.
Benefits for Exhibitors and Industry
For businesses in the marine and outdoor sectors, the event presents a valuable opportunity to connect directly with a qualified and motivated audience. Exhibitors will benefit from:
- Enhanced brand visibility and exposure within a regional and coastal market that has high boating participation rates.
- The chance to showcase new products, technologies, and innovations in a live, hands-on environment.
- Access to new leads and sales opportunities generated by visitors with strong purchase intent.
- The ability to build relationships with other exhibitors, local businesses, and government stakeholders.
- A setting that encourages education, engagement, and entertainment, strengthening public interest in boating and marine recreation.
Building on Proven Success
Delivered by the experienced BIAV team behind the highly successful Melbourne Boat Show, the Gippsland Lakes Boat Show will combine the professionalism of a major metropolitan event with the warmth and accessibility of a regional showcase. By running in conjunction with the Paynesville Classic Boat Rally, the show is expected to draw large crowds and create a true festival atmosphere across the Gippsland Lakes.
For the Victorian boating industry, it represents both a new business platform and an opportunity to celebrate the state’s regional waterways, communities, and marine heritage.
For more information, visit the BIA show page HERE
