FRANKSTON Waterfront has been transformed into a magical wonderland for the 2026 Australian Sand Sculpting Championships. Open daily from 10.00am-5.00pm until Sunday, April 26, it’s a vibrant celebration of creativity, imagination, and family fun.
Presented by Sandstorm Events, proudly sponsored by EastLink and supported by Frankston City Council’s Destination Event Attraction Program, this year’s championships showcase more than 400 tonnes of sand sculpted into 16 large-scale installations. From fairytale castles to majestic dragons and mythical creatures, this year’s theme, The Enchanted Realm, invites visitors to step into a world where fantasy and artistry collide.
Fourteen solo sculptures have each been crafted using up to 15 tonnes of sand, alongside an awe-inspiring 65-tonne hero sculpture inspired by The Super Mario Galaxy Movie and a 25-tonne interactive piece where guests can step inside for the ultimate photo moment.
A spectacular Govee-sponsored light show will run multiple times daily, transforming the sculptures into a colourful, immersive experience for all ages. Visitors can vote for their favourite sculpture and attend sculptor talks for an insight into the techniques and stories behind each masterpiece. Kids can book sand sculpting workshops, join in the fun of our Sandsational Easter Egg Hunt from April 3-5, and enjoy sand art & bottles, mini golf, a giant sandpit and heaps more family fun.
Tickets are available at the gate and online at sandstormevents.com/sandstorm-events-2026, where you can find the full program. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, the Australian Sand Sculpting Championships promises a month filled with wonder, excitement, and unforgettable artistry.
First published in the Mornington News – 31 March 2026
