National barefoot waterski championships coming to Cohuna
Published on 26 March 2026
Waterskiing enthusiasts from across Australia will converge on Cohuna next month when the town hosts the 64th Australian National Barefoot Waterski Championships.
Eight days of events will be held on Gunbower Creek at the Cohuna Ski Run Reserve from Saturday, 11 April to Saturday, 18 April, highlighted by the five-day championships occurring from 14-18 April.
It will be the first time since 2001 that Cohuna has hosted the championships, which will showcase some of the nation’s best barefoot skiers.
“The Gannawarra is renowned for hosting large events, with the return of the Australian National Barefoot Waterski Championships a welcome addition to our annual program,” Gannawarra Shire Council Chief Executive Officer, Geoff Rollinson said.
“These championships will provide a significant financial boost to our accommodation, retail and hospitality sectors, with the hundreds of people predicted to participate or watch the event to spend money on food, drinks, petrol and accommodation in the area.”
Teams will arrive in the area from early April to familiarise themselves with the creek and course setup prior to the five-day competition.
Championship organisers have also added an Australian Open Invitational competition to the program. Occurring from 12 noon on Sunday, 12 April, this free event will showcase some of the nation’s best skiers and form part of the national championship’s opening ceremony.
Numerous events will also be held for participant off the water, including a welcome dinner, barefoot bowls and an Australian team fundraising dinner.
For more information about the championships, visit www.vicbarefootclub.com or visit the 2026 Australian National Barefoot Waterski Championships Facebook page.
Residents are advised that Gunbower Creek will be closed to all vessels, apart from those competing, between the Cohuna Island Road and Dalton’s Road bridges from 7am Friday, 10 April to 7pm Sunday, 19 April.