Our History

Our Story: Goughs Bay Boat Club and Community Hub Inc.

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A Club Built by Community

The Goughs Bay Boat Club has proudly evolved over the decades, known at various times as the Mansfield Boat and Yacht Club, Mansfield Boat Club Goughs Bay Inc., The Community Hub, and Goughs Bay Boat Sport and Recreation Club Inc.. In 2025, following a unanimous vote at our Annual General Meeting, we embraced a new chapter as the Goughs Bay Boat Club and Community Hub Inc.—a name that reflects both our boating heritage and our growing role as a social and recreational centre for the region. This change also celebrates our formal partnership with the Goughs Bay Progress Association, strengthening our shared commitment to community development and local connection.

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From Vision to Reality

In 1962, a small group of passionate locals saw the need for a boat club on this side of Lake Eildon. Led by Mr. Len Lynch, a club member and Mansfield Shire Council engineer, the vision took shape. With land allocated by the State Rivers and Water Commission, members began the hard work of building the club—cutting timber, towing poles across the lake, and digging foundations by hand.

The floor was completed that same year, and over the next six years, members raised nearly all the funds needed through events and donations. Women were welcomed as full members—a progressive move for the time—and their efforts raised an impressive £5,000.

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Built by Locals, For Locals

The original clubhouse was constructed entirely by volunteers. Members in the timber and transport industries donated materials and services, hauling supplies from Melbourne and working side by side to bring the club to life. Since then, the building has seen many renovations—but the spirit of community and the stunning lake views remain unchanged.

 

“We’re proud of where we came from, and grateful for those who led the way.”

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A Place to Gather and Grow

In the early 2000s, the Noel Warren Bar downstairs became a favourite gathering spot, thanks to a stainless steel BBQ generously donated by members Boris & Liz Vrancic of Profab Engineering. It quickly became the heart of warm summer evenings, with food, drinks, and views of the lake and boat ramps.

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In 2015–2016, the club underwent a major transformation. The downstairs storage area was converted into a Kids Club, kitchen, and indoor amenities. New signage was installed around the Bay to promote our growing calendar of events. That same year, long-time members Willie Kersting and Harry Tylenek were honoured for 20 years of continuous membership.

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By 2017, the Noel Warren Bar received a fresh update, and the upstairs area was opened up with new front windows—bringing even more light and lake views into the heart of the club.

Looking Ahead: A New Era

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In 2023–2024, the club secured a $1.5 million grant through the Victorian State Regional Tourism Investment Fund, with additional support from the Mansfield Shire Council, to deliver a major $2 million redevelopment of the building, including a substantial extension of the upstairs area.

The Goughs Bay Progress Association also obtained a $60,000 grant from Bendigo Bank and contributed further funds toward the build, helping bring the project to life for the community.

The upgraded venue officially reopened in March 2025, featuring:

• A modern, architecturally designed renovation of the bistro, dining, and function spaces

• A new commercial kitchen and expanded deck areas

• Capacity for up to 150 guests, ideal for weddings, conferences, and community events

• Designation as a regional relief centre after bushfires and emergencies.

 

Today, the Goughs Bay Boat Club and Community Hub Inc. continues to thrive as a welcoming space for locals and visitors alike—celebrating our rich history while embracing a vibrant future on the shores of Lake Eildon.