The Melbourne-based landscape designer said beach-side creativeness had become one of his favourite artistic outlets.

“You can’t keep it,” he said. “That’s the best thing about it.

“It’s all about the process.

“You don’t have stuff laying around everywhere and it’s even cool to watch it wash away.”

Mr Abben joined wife Leanne at Warrnambool’s McGennans Beach instructing youngsters in the technique of sand sculpting on Thursday.

The free workshop was part of the city’s Beachfest program, a Warrnambool City Council initiative.

The Council’s events and promotions coordinator Bec Elmes said sand sculpting was just one of the festival’s drawcards.

Speaking at the half-way mark of the month-long festival Ms Elms said this year’s event had been popular.

“It’s been so well-received this year,” she said.

“Events have been very popular with high participation numbers and we’ve received lots of positive comments.

“The town’s abuzz with activity.

“People are saying it’s the place to be because there’s so much to do.

“It’s been a big few weeks.”

Ms Elms said the annual program had broadened to include arts and crafts this year as well as come and try days with local sporting clubs.

“We need to acknowledge the local clubs who have participated this year, without them it would be extremely difficult to run all of this.”