EVEN when the lake runs dry, the community spirit at Lake Boga Skiing Club is always buoyant.
The water skiing club has has faced many challenges in recent times, including its clubhouse being damaged in a storm last year, and the impact of pandemic restrictions.
But club media officer Chris Lahy said that the club and its members had stood tall through tough times and were looking forward to a slalom skiing demonstration and tournament on September 27, 28 and 29.
“The club is really a place that can allow people to feel a sense of togetherness and give back to the community as well,” he said.
“I think that once we sort of break the ice, and let people know that there’s a club here and something to do of a weekend, people really buy into the community spirit.
“Even though the club has always been active and had members around, there were a few years where the lake was actually dry,” he said.
“Obviously we couldn’t get out on Lake Boga, but we still took trips out to some local lakes like Lake Charm.
“For three consecutive years there was just nothing, and we really thought that the club would be ruined.
“But the club still remained together throughout those really difficult times.”
Lake Boga has always been a popular summer destination, and the club is hoping it can get more people out on the water.
The club, established in 1959, now runs a variety of events throughout the summer,
“There’s a wide mix of people who make up the LBWSC, because water sport is just so broad,” Lahy said.
“We’ve got families who just come together to have fun and swim and get behind a boat every now and then.
“We’ve also got people who are ‘revheads’ who want the fastest boats around, and there’s those who are just as crazy who jump on two long planks and get pulled along at high speed.
“It’s just a great way to meet new people and share your passion, while having a blast.”
The club is also planning to hold a come-and-try day later this season, with a date to be confirmed.
Lahy said that the club’s clinics were always a popular draw.
“We hold coaching clinics with Lee Bray, who has had a long association with the club,” he said.
“He’s very generous about lending us his time, and we always have a lot of fun.
“Our expressions of interest are filling pretty gradually.
“Lake Boga really is a big drawcard; I think it was pretty well known as a little oasis in Northwest Victoria, which is just really awesome.
“This time of year is just magic out here on the lake.”
For membership enquiries contact the club’s president Paul Martin on 0456762301, email lbws19@gmail.com or check out their Facebook page.
