Amidst the serene backdrop of Lake Macquarie, the Yellow Submarine emerged victorious, clinching the prestigious Newcastle Permanent People’s Choice award at the Float Your Boat 2025 event. Megan Evans’s tribute to the iconic Beatles’ song captured the hearts of spectators, earning the top spot after a spirited competition among 18 illuminated artworks that graced the waters. The event drew a crowd of 12,000 attendees both in person and through online voting, creating a magical spectacle.
Reflecting on her creative process, Megan Evans shared her joy in designing an engaging piece that resonated with people of all ages. The whimsical and nostalgic essence of the Yellow Submarine design encapsulated the spirit of camaraderie and fun that defined the event. Surpassing last year’s second-place finish, the victory was a moment of pride for Evans and her team, signifying the culmination of their hard work and dedication.
Not far behind was Steve Upton, a consistent top performer in past competitions, who secured the second spot with his Flintstones-themed ‘Fred and Dino’ creation, earning acclaim and a cash prize of $600. The third-place honor and a $400 prize went to Gary Knott’s imaginative duo, Hector the Helicopter and Cattiva, charming the audience with their creativity and craftsmanship.
The success of Evans, Upton, and Knott extended beyond the People’s Choice awards, as they also received the prestigious Mayor’s Choice Awards in their respective categories, adding another layer of recognition to their achievements.
Lake Macquarie Mayor Adam Shultz commended the event as a resounding success, highlighting the vibrant atmosphere and diverse offerings that captivated both participants and spectators. The live sites at Toronto, Warners Bay foreshore, and Belmont buzzed with energy, hosting a myriad of activities, from aerial performances to on-water spectacles, creating an immersive experience for all.
Float Your Boat, hosted by Empire Marina Lake Macquarie and supported by prominent sponsors like Newcastle Permanent, Wangi District Workers Club, Belmont 16s Sailing Club, and Cardiff Motor Group, showcased the region’s artistic talent and community spirit. The event’s popularity and positive reception underscored the significance of fostering creativity and collaboration in the local cultural landscape.
Mayor Shultz encouraged aspiring artists and boating enthusiasts to participate in future editions of Float Your Boat, emphasizing the event’s inclusive nature and the boundless opportunities it offers for creative expression and community engagement. The 2025 edition left a lasting impression, setting a high standard for future iterations and reinforcing Lake Macquarie’s reputation as a hub of artistic innovation and cultural vibrancy.
For more information on this year’s participants and winners, visit lakemac.com.au to explore the diverse range of talents that graced the waters of Lake Macquarie during this enchanting event.
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