Australian Sand Sculpting Championships return to Frankston Waterfront
Published on 19 March 2026
More than 400 tonnes of sand will transform Frankston Waterfront into a spellbinding open-air gallery when the Australian Sand Sculpting Championships return from Saturday 28 March to Sunday 26 April 2026.
Presented by Sandstorm Events and sponsored by EastLink, the Championships are proudly supported by Frankston City Council through its Destination Event Attraction Program (DEAP).
This year’s theme, The Enchanted Realm, will bring fairytale castles, soaring dragons and mythical creatures to life at McCombs Reserve — each sculpted in astonishing detail.
Across eight high-intensity days, artists will carve 18 large-scale masterpieces in the Championships’ most ambitious season yet. And for the first time, every sculpture will be completed before opening day, giving visitors access to the full exhibition from the moment gates open.
Fifteen solo artists will compete for the prestigious Aidan J Graham Australian Champion title, including 10 of Australia’s finest sculptors and five international contenders. With the spotlight on individual artistry, this year’s format celebrates skill, precision and creativity.
A 50-tonne centrepiece will anchor the exhibition, alongside a 25-tonne interactive sculpture for families and 15-tonne entry installation welcoming visitors into the enchanted world.
Frankston City Mayor Cr Sue Baker said the revitalised format and expanded program would make the 2026 Championships a must-see event.
“We’re thrilled to welcome the Australian Sand Sculpting Championships back to our city — bringing colour, creativity and energy to our waterfront and showcasing Frankston at its very best,” Mayor Baker said.
“The Enchanted Realm will capture imaginations of all ages, boosting visitation, supporting local traders and reinforcing Frankston as a leading destination for major events.
“Council is proud to support this event through our Destination Event Attraction Program, recognising the way it brings people together, strengthens community spirit and delivers meaningful benefits for the local economy.”
Sandstorm Events Founder and Director, Sharon Redmond, said the event is sure to showcase exceptional Australian and international talent in a spectacular coastal setting.
“We’re bringing together some of the finest sand sculptors from across Australia and around the world to create an immersive experience that truly transports visitors,” Ms Redmond said.
“Frankston Waterfront offers an extraordinary natural backdrop, and we value our ongoing partnership with Council and sponsors in delivering an event that draws visitors from across the region while giving the local community something remarkable to enjoy.”
Beyond the sculptures, visitors can join sand sculpting workshops, explore a giant sand pit, challenge friends to mini golf, create sand art, enjoy food trucks and capture unforgettable photo moments.
A special Easter weekend program — including the ever-popular Easter egg hunt — and the return of EastLink’s People’s Choice Award will add to the festival atmosphere.
New for 2026, visitors can also enjoy live sculpture talks, interactive installations and an immersive light show sponsored by Govee.
With more sculptures, more interactive experiences and more ways to enjoy the magic, the Australian Sand Sculpting Championships 2026 is set to deliver its most spectacular season yet on Frankston’s iconic foreshore.
Event Details
Australian Sand Sculpting Championships 2026 – The Enchanted Realm
Frankston Waterfront, McCombs Reserve
Saturday 28 March – Sunday 26 April 2026
Daily, 10am–5pm
Tickets available online or at the gate.
For more information, visit sandstormevents.com.au