Lakes Entrance - FLOAT 3909
FLOAT 3909 is an innovative community arts organisation with a creative space in the historic Slipway Sheds on the waterfront at Lakes Entrance.
Located beside the Gippsland Lakes, FLOAT brings together artists, makers and the wider community through exhibitions, creative workshops, performances and other activities.
The beautifully restored old boatsheds provide an unusual setting for discovering local artwork, taking part in hands-on creative activities and enjoying the waterfront atmosphere.
Art Gallery and Exhibitions:
FLOAT uses the historic Slipway Sheds to display artworks created by local and visiting artists.
Exhibitions change throughout the year and may feature:
- Paintings, drawings and photography.
- Contemporary artworks and installations.
- Handmade ceramics, textiles and other crafts.
- Artwork inspired by the natural environment of East Gippsland.
- Collaborative community art projects.
- Works produced through FLOAT's artist residency programs.
Creative Workshops:
FLOAT regularly organises creative workshops and community activities, with some suitable for children and families.
Past activities have included:
- Weaving and textile workshops.
- Drawing and painting activities.
- Recycled art and environmental art projects.
- Collaborative community art activities.
- Special workshops during regional festivals.
- Artist talks and creative demonstrations.
Some activities are free, while others require bookings and a participation fee.
Check the current program before visiting if you are particularly interested in a hands-on workshop.
Historic Slipway Sheds:
The FLOAT arts space is part of The Slipway, a waterfront precinct created through the redevelopment of the former Lakes Entrance boat slipway.
Two historic winch sheds have been restored and transformed into spaces for art, exhibitions and community activities.
The redevelopment also included a waterfront deck, improved public access and attractive outdoor gathering areas.
The Slipway officially reopened in July 2024, bringing new life to an important part of the town's maritime history.
FLOAT Artist Residency:
FLOAT also operates a distinctive floating artist studio and residency on Lake Tyers.
The purpose-built vessel provides accommodation and a creative workspace for visiting artists, writers, designers and other creative professionals.
Artists can spend time immersed in the natural environment, developing new work inspired by the lakes, forests and surrounding landscape.
The floating studio is a residency facility rather than a public gallery. Work developed by visiting artists may subsequently be presented through exhibitions, workshops and events at the Slipway Sheds and other venues.
Facilities:
- Historic waterfront arts and exhibition space.
- Rotating exhibitions and displays.
- Creative workshops and community events.
- Outdoor waterfront deck and seating.
- Nearby cafes and food outlets within The Slipway precinct.
- Waterfront views across the Gippsland Lakes.
- Accessible pathways and ramps within the redeveloped precinct.
- Nearby public parking.
Getting There:
FLOAT is located at the Slipway Sheds, 480 Esplanade, Lakes Entrance.
The arts space is part of The Slipway waterfront precinct, which is a short walk from the centre of Lakes Entrance.
Look for the restored white boatsheds beside the water.
Opening Hours:
Opening times vary depending on exhibitions, workshops and special events. See current FLOAT information and event announcements.
Cost:
General exhibitions and community activities may be free, while some workshops and special events have admission or participation fees. See current exhibition and workshop information.
Review:
FLOAT 3909 is an interesting addition to the Lakes Entrance waterfront, offering families an opportunity to discover local art and creativity in a setting quite different from a traditional gallery.
The restored Slipway Sheds provide plenty of character, with their maritime history adding another dimension to the artwork on display.
Children who enjoy art and craft activities may find the workshops particularly appealing, especially when the program includes hands-on activities suitable for younger participants.
The changing exhibitions also provide a reason to visit more than once.
Another major attraction is the waterfront location. The surrounding Slipway precinct has outdoor seating, food outlets and lovely views across the Gippsland Lakes, making it a pleasant place to spend some time.
The main limitation is that exhibitions and workshops are not necessarily available every day, so visitors should check the current program before making a special trip.
For families exploring Lakes Entrance, FLOAT is a worthwhile place to investigate, particularly when a family-friendly exhibition or creative workshop is scheduled.
Location
480 Esplanade, Lakes Entrance 3909 View Map
✆ 0428 984 682
Email Enquiry
Web Links
→ www.float3909.com
→ FLOAT on Facebook
