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19 Jan 2021

How would you spend a perfect summer's day in Ballarat?

Ballarat is a place to be explored, a city with many layers to be peeled away to reveal hidden architectural gems, ancient landscapes, cultural icons, historic parks and an over-abundance...

Pyrenees

19 Jan 2021

Explore Victoria's Pyrenees wine region

While Adelaide has the Barossa Valley, Sydney has the Hunter and Melbourne the Mornington Peninsula, Ballarat's go-to wine region is the Pyrenees. Dominated by the rugged and beautiful Pyrenees ranges...

Food & Drink

18 Jan 2021

Top Ballarat eats during the warmer months

Want to know where an acclaimed writer and food festival founder like to eat out in Ballarat? These are Richard Cornish and Kate Davis' favourite local cafes and restaurants this...

18 Jan 2021

Six must-do summer experiences in Ballarat

We asked award-winning food writer Richard Cornish and Plate Up Ballarat/Eat Drink West director Kate Davis to share what's at the top of their Ballarat must-do lists this summer. This...

Food & Drink

18 Jan 2021

Go the whole hog in Ballarat

It's an open secret that Ballarat has some of the best meat in the country. We are surrounded by some of the nation's richest grazing land on which our farmers...

Food & Drink

18 Jan 2021

Ballarat's summer food and drink calendar

From a meat masterclass to a special lunch with renowned wine writer Max Allen, Ballarat is serving up some unique foodie events to make summer even more fun. G&T(ea) from...

Food & Drink

12 Jan 2021

Fall in love with Ballarat's ice cream sundaes

Sundaes are more than just desserts – they are decadent but innocent moments in time savoured at the end of a very long spoon. A swathe of Ballarat’s favourite venues...

Food & Drink

12 Jan 2021

Six of Ballarat's best summer picnic hampers

Grab a rug, throw the esky in the car and head off for a perfect summer picnic at one of Ballarat’s beautiful historic gardens, hidden swimming holes or secluded bush...

News

12 Jan 2021

Ballarat's Survival Day Dawn Ceremony to be livestreamed in 2021

Ballarat’s award-winning Survival Day Dawn Ceremony will be livestreamed from Lake Wendouree on 26 January this year with the aim of creating an educational documentary. The Koorie Engagement Action Group...

Food & Drink

11 Jan 2021

Ballarat's Balmy Night Cocktail Series

After a long summer’s day, when the sun lowers in the sky, there is nothing nicer than a long, cool, slow cocktail. So Ballarat's best bartenders and mixologists have created...

Food & Drink

11 Jan 2021

A summer of milkshakes and memories in Ballarat

Celebrate those golden summers of childhood past with these chilly milkshakes. This summer, a swag of Ballarat's cafes, bars and restaurants are making simply slurpable milkshakes using their own special...

Food & Drink

11 Jan 2021

Where to do brunch in Ballarat this summer

The Ballarat region's cafes are going way beyond the smashed avocado this summer by putting on special brunches to entice visitors, friends and family out of bed after a long...

News

22 Dec 2020

Two AFL games scheduled for Ballarat in 2021

AFL is returning to Ballarat in 2021. Mars Stadium will host the following two home and away games next year: Western Bulldogs v Brisbane Lions (Saturday 10 April at 1.45pm)...

Family Friendly

21 Dec 2020

21 things to do in Ballarat this summer school holidays

There's no chance of "I'm bored!" this school holidays thanks to Ballarat's Summer of Fun. From stepping back in time to gold rush and medieval times to hours of fun...

News

17 Dec 2020

Summer at Sovereign Hill just got even better

Summer at Sovereign Hill just got even better! The tourist attraction has opened seven days a week. Some of the much-loved activities and attractions set to return for the first...

See & Do

16 Dec 2020

What's on in Ballarat this New Year's Eve

Your guide to what's happening in Ballarat on New Year's Eve (Thursday 31 December) Family-friendly medieval feast at Kryal Castle Three-course meal and live entertainment at the Boatshed Restaurant Banquet-style...

See & Do

16 Dec 2020

What's on in Ballarat this Christmas Eve and Christmas Day

Your guide to what's happening in Ballarat this Christmas Eve (Thursday 24 December) and Christmas Day (Friday 25 December) Christmas Eve banquet at Moon & Mountain Christmas Eve party at...

News

15 Dec 2020

Ballarat's new program of activities for 26 January

The City of Ballarat will host a new program of activities on 26 January from 2021. The Survival Day Dawn Ceremony and citizenship ceremonies are planned for Tuesday 26 January...

News

11 Dec 2020

Linda McCartney exhibition to headline the 2021 Ballarat International Foto Biennale

In an Australian exclusive, the 2021 Ballarat International Foto Biennale will showcase the works of world-famous American photographer Linda McCartney (1948 – 1998). Curated by Linda's former husband/Beatles frontman Paul...

See & Do

11 Dec 2020

Your summer guide to Ballarat's pools

Escape the summer heat at one of Ballarat's outdoor pools. Or head indoors and away from the sun at the Ballarat Aquatic and Lifestyle Centre. Outdoor pools Eureka Aquatic Centre...

News

10 Dec 2020

Ballarat's new Christmas decorations revealed

Three new star installations have been added to Ballarat's swag of Christmas decorations in 2020. A 10-metre long shooting star that sparkles during the day and lights up at night...

News

10 Dec 2020

Get your free $200 travel voucher from 11 December

The Victorian Government is giving away its first round of $200 travel vouchers on Friday 11 December from 10am as part of the Regional Travel Voucher Scheme. An initial 40,000...

Food & Drink

09 Dec 2020

Cheers to Ballarat's best cocktails

Welcome to the Ballarat cocktail hour! After much research (wink, wink!), here is our go-to list of bars and restaurants serving the city's top tipples this summer. Now all you...

See & Do

09 Dec 2020

Where to find the Ballarat region's best swimming holes

The Ballarat region is full of beautiful swimming holes and stunning parkland to discover. And with the long summer days now upon us, it’s the perfect time to explore all...

News

08 Dec 2020

New accommodation option for Ballarat CBD

A stylish new 77-room hotel has opened in the heart of Ballarat. As its name suggests, Quest Ballarat Station is located next to the historic Ballarat Railway Station in Nolan...

News

08 Dec 2020

Twilight hours return to Kryal Castle

Ballarat's Kryal Castle will again switch to special twilight hours this summer. From Saturday 26 December until Tuesday 26 January, the tourist attraction will be open daily between 2pm and...

See & Do

08 Dec 2020

Faces of Ballarat: Phillip Leitch

Meet Ballarat's very own knight in shining armour – Kryal Castle site manager Phillip Leitch. As Australia's only full-time knight, Phillip is also the defending World Jousting Champion. "Jousting is...

News

08 Dec 2020

Music line-up announced for new look Summer Sundays series

Ella Hooper, Clare Bowditch and Ross Wilson will headline Ballarat's COVID-safe edition of the annual live music series Summer Sundays. Over three weekends in January, Summer Sundays will be live...

Family Friendly

08 Dec 2020

A starry Christmas in Ballarat

Nothing says Christmas in Ballarat more than a stroll down Sturt Street, with shop windows transformed into spectacles as Christmas trees and fairy lights align the central gardens. This year...

News

06 Dec 2020

Ballarat Information Centre reopens at the Town Hall

The Ballarat Information Centre (BIC) has returned to the Ballarat Town Hall. Located at 225 Sturt Street, the centre is open 10am to 4pm daily. All visitors need to maintain...

See & Do

03 Dec 2020

Commerce Ballarat Christmas Gift Guide

Still not sure what to get that special someone for Christmas this year? Here are some suggestions from Commerce Ballarat on what to buy locally this festive season. Santa pull-apart...

See & Do

02 Dec 2020

Make a splash at Ballarat's water play spaces

If you're looking for a fun way to cool off the kids this summer, definitely make a beeline for Ballarat's water play spaces. Entry is free to both the Midlands...

News

01 Dec 2020

Ballarat to honour the Eureka Stockade's 166th anniversary

The City of Ballarat will host a series of commemorative events to mark the 166th anniversary of the Eureka Stockade on Thursday 3 December. This year’s commemorative program is mostly...

See & Do

01 Dec 2020

Celebrate Christmas in Ballarat in 2020

The City of Ballarat has unveiled the first of its 2020 CBD Christmas decorations with an invitation to people from all backgrounds and nationalities to stand together and celebrate the...

News

24 Nov 2020

A-League heads back to Ballarat for 2020/21 season

Western United will return to Ballarat's Mars Stadium next year as part of the 2020/21 A-League Season. On the Labour Day long weekend, the club will play the Western Sydney...

News

24 Nov 2020

Shop small and support local in Ballarat this Christmas

Show your support for Ballarat's small businesses by shopping locally this festive season. To get you started, we've put together a list of some of our favourite local retailers... Something...

Food & Drink

24 Nov 2020

Striking it lucky with Ballarat-made chocolate

Ballarat chocolatier Jade Davidson knows good chocolate. The mother-of-two has studied the sweet stuff in Melbourne, the United Kingdom, Switzerland and Costa Rica. Jade has travelled the world visiting chocolate...

Family Friendly

11 Nov 2020

The artists and stories behind Ballarat's Christmas Window Trail

This year's Christmas Window Trail celebrates Ballarat's unique history and stories. Commissioned by the City of Ballarat, six local artists have put their own spin on the theme 'Our Stories'...

11 Nov 2020

Christmas with Ballarat's Intercultural Ambassadors

Different cultures have their own unique ways of celebrating Christmas. We spoke to four of the City of Ballarat's Intercultural Ambassadors to find out how they honour the festive season...

News

10 Nov 2020

Art Gallery of Ballarat to reopen on 14 November

The doors to the historic Art Gallery of Ballarat will reopen to visitors this Saturday 14 November. Guests will be able to explore the six exhibitions on display as well...

See & Do

04 Nov 2020

Must-do Ballarat workshops and masterclasses

Cook gnocchi like Nonna used to make, paint like Picasso or explore the basics of beekeeping at one of Ballarat's hands-on workshops and masterclasses. Let your inner artist shine over...

News

04 Nov 2020

Ballarat to again host Road National Championships in 2021

World-class cycling will return to Ballarat next year with the city securing the rights to host the 2021 AusCycling Federation University Road National Championships. The rescheduled event will be held...

Food & Drink

28 Oct 2020

Seven places to get on the beers in Ballarat

Now that Premier Daniel Andrews has officially given Victorians permission to "get on the beers", here's our top picks for where to polish off a frothy or two in Ballarat...

Food & Drink

28 Oct 2020

The Ballarat businesses that opened during a pandemic

Despite the challenges of COVID-19 restrictions, a long list of gutsy Ballarat businesses have bitten the bullet and opened their doors in 2020, further expanding the city's impressive hospitality and...

Family Friendly

24 Oct 2020

Sovereign Hill to reopen with reduced ticket prices

Ballarat tourist attraction Sovereign Hill will reopen on 31 October with new ticket prices and a range of hygiene and social distancing measures in place. The living museum will open...

Food & Drink

24 Oct 2020

Taste the world in Ballarat

Overseas travel might be off the cards for a while yet but you can still take your tastebuds on a global food discovery at one of Ballarat's internationally-inspired restaurants and...

Places to Stay

17 Sep 2020

The light and dark of Ballarat's new Lyon House

The dynamic duo behind Ballarat's Lascelles Terraces has again struck gold with their latest local project – boutique holiday home Lyon House. Martin Shew and David Cook-Doulton have spent the...

See & Do

17 Sep 2020

Make the most of a day out (or stay for the weekend) in Ballarat

There’s nothing like waking up on a Saturday morning with a hankering to get away for the day (or even the whole weekend). Just a stone’s throw away from most...

Family Friendly

17 Sep 2020

Ballarat Wildlife Park and Kryal Castle reopen to regional Victorians

The Ballarat Wildlife Park and Kryal Castle have reopened to locals and regional Victorians, just in time for the spring school holidays. Owned and operated by the Parker family, the...

Family Friendly

16 Sep 2020

Escape to Ballarat for the spring school holidays

Regional Victorians can again holiday in regional Victoria – Ballarat included – as of 17 September. This important third step in the State Government's COVID-19 roadmap has arrived just in...

Family Friendly

04 Sep 2020

Ballarat's top insta-worthy places to take photos

When a photo is good enough to be posted on Instagram you just know! Lucky for us we’re spoilt for choice when it comes to finding the best backdrop for...

Makers & Growers

04 Sep 2020

A golden opportunity

The Art Gallery of Ballarat’s latest exhibition, The golden pantomime, is a bold and vibrant celebration of domestic spaces and the rituals of everyday life. While the doors to the...

News

02 Sep 2020

Learn in lockdown with Ballarat's online workshops and DIY kits

Pick up a new skill or simply make the most of your time at home with our guide to Ballarat's online masterclasses and DIY kits. Online workshops Enjoy happy hour...

Food & Drink

02 Sep 2020

Bar meets brewery at new Ballarat venue Aunty Jacks

The countdown is on until the opening of Ballarat's much anticipated brewpub Aunty Jacks. Located at 315-317 Mair Street next to fellow newcomer Ragazzone, Aunty Jacks will combine quality craft...

News

01 Sep 2020

SpringFest Ballarat unveils new online raffle

SpringFest Ballarat has been reimagined in the face of COVID-19 restrictions and will be presented as an $18,000 online raffle this year. Up for grabs in the 2020 Ultimate SpringFest...

Makers & Growers

26 Aug 2020

Halliday Wine Companion toasts the region's wineries

Seven wineries from the Ballarat and Pyrenees regions have been awarded five red star ratings in the nationally-recognised Halliday Wine Companion 2021. James Halliday has been the nation's most respected...

Food & Drink

26 Aug 2020

Enjoy a taste of Ballarat at home with Click for Vic

The Ballarat region is featured in a new State Government campaign designed to connect people with Victorian producers, creators and businesses. Click for Vic encourages consumers to support Victorian businesses...

Food & Drink

12 Aug 2020

From Ballarat with love: Father's Day gift guide

Shop small and support local this Father's Day (6 September) with our special gift guide showcasing Ballarat producers, makers and businesses. No matter where you are in Australia, deliver a...

Food & Drink

11 Aug 2020

A self-guided food and adventure experience with a difference

A Melbourne-founded company offering unique ways to experience more than 50 cities around the world has arrived in Ballarat. To date, AmazingCo has delivered more than 40,000 experiences to over...

Food & Drink

10 Aug 2020

Eat your way through lockdown with Plate Up Ballarat

We might be confined to our homes ordering takeaway for a little while longer, but that doesn’t mean it has to be boring! Plate Up Ballarat has teamed up with...

Food & Drink

05 Aug 2020

Your guide to Ballarat cafes and restaurants open for takeaway and delivery

Whilst dining out might be temporarily off the menu due to stage three restrictions, you can still treat yourself at home with our lockdown guide to Ballarat cafes and restaurants...

Makers & Growers

30 Jul 2020

Where to purchase a Ballarat-made face mask

Face coverings will soon become mandatory across all of Victoria. That means from Sunday 2 August at 11:59pm, you will need a face covering whenever you leave home – no...

See & Do

29 Jul 2020

Now showing at the Art Gallery of Ballarat

From celebrating the ritual in everyday life to parodying the hypermasculine world of footy, the Art Gallery of Ballarat's new line-up of exhibitions is a deep dive into the ever-changing...

Places to Stay

24 Jul 2020

Cool and quirky Ballarat stays

Want to stay somewhere unique on your next trip to Ballarat? From historic churches and charming cottages to off-the-grid cabins and boutique hotels, here are some of the coolest and...

Pyrenees

21 Jul 2020

Unplug and unwind in the Pyrenees

There’s nothing like getting away for a weekend and being surrounded by sweeping views, good company and fine wine. Renowned for its gourmet food, award-winning wine and contemporary energy, it’s...

Food & Drink

21 Jul 2020

Faces of Ballarat: Liana Skewes

Meet Liana Skewes – the fashion and style blogger showing people all over the world what it’s like to live like a local in Ballarat. "If you love vintage-inspired style...

Food & Drink

15 Jul 2020

What locals love most about winter in Ballarat

Winter truly is a special time in Ballarat – and who better to tell you why than the people who call this beautiful city home. As part of a recent...

Food & Drink

15 Jul 2020

Tempt your tastebuds in Ballarat’s gastronomic core

Ballarat is a mecca of exceptional chefs, fine food and an electric atmosphere. You just need to know where to find them. We’ve compiled a list of some of the...

Food & Drink

14 Jul 2020

Faces of Ballarat: Gorgi Coghlan

She's the popular Australian television host who's brought a slice of European magic and simplicity to Ballarat. We spoke to The Provincial Hotel owner and The Project panellist Gorgi Coghlan...

See & Do

08 Jul 2020

Wander Ballarat's historic Main Road

It’s old meets modern at Ballarat’s charming Main Road. Like many of Ballarat streets in the 1850’s, Main Road was at the centre of mining life. The road was a...

Food & Drink

07 Jul 2020

Step back in time at The 18th Amendment Bar

A new Ballarat bar is taking patrons back to a chapter in American history when it was illegal to consume or sell alcohol. The 18th Amendment Bar opened at the...

Food & Drink

02 Jul 2020

A taste of Ballarat with Craig's Royal Hotel's Scott Alsop

Craig’s Royal Hotel head chef Scott Alsop describes himself as an "English chef loving life and living the dream in Australia". Today he has shared with Visit Ballarat two recipes...

Food & Drink

01 Jul 2020

The perfect cup of hot chocolate and where to find it

There’s nothing more warming than sitting fireside with a cup of hot chocolate in hand, especially in winter! When it comes to the milky goodness, we’re pretty spoilt here in...

Food & Drink

30 Jun 2020

Where to find Ballarat’s most Instagrammable breakfasts

With more than 30,000 #breakfast posts flooding our Instagram feed every day, it’s fair to say breaky has become the most important meal of the day in more ways than...

News

25 Jun 2020

Discounted tickets for locals and regional Victorians at Ballarat tourist attractions

Ballarat tourist attractions are offering discounted tickets to help attract local and regional Victorian visitors this winter. Discounts of up to 50 per cent are available at Sovereign Hill, Kryal...

Food & Drink

24 Jun 2020

A taste of Ballarat with MasterChef's Tim Bone

After reaching the top four on the 2019 season of MasterChef, Tim Bone returned home to Ballarat to launch his new business, Tim's Toasties, and start a family with his...

Makers & Growers

23 Jun 2020

Create a warm and cosy home with beautiful Ballarat products

Looking to make your home warm and cosy this winter? Ballarat and the surrounding region have a wide variety of retailers offering everything you need to create an inviting haven...

See & Do

19 Jun 2020

15 places to shop secondhand in Ballarat

Secondhand shopping has never been more popular. And we get it! Why settle for something from a catalogue when you can take home a one-off goodie that will have your...

News

18 Jun 2020

Ballarat’s online winter festival extended until 31 August

If you can't visit Ballarat right now in person, you still can online with the Ballarat Virtual Winter Fest extended until 31 August. Visit the website and tour the interactive...

Family Friendly

17 Jun 2020

What to do in Ballarat this winter school holidays

There's so much to love about heading to Ballarat for the winter school holidays (27 June – 12 July). Embrace the chill and step back in time to the 1850s...

Makers & Growers

17 Jun 2020

Master the danish art of hygge in your home this winter

Ballarat is a melting pot of artesian products that will spread warmth and calm into any home. Discover for yourself how to enjoy life’s simple pleasures by adding a little...

Family Friendly

16 Jun 2020

Things to love about winter in Ballarat

Whether you are a local or are here visiting friends and family there is lot to love about Ballarat this winter. Be sure to rug up and get out and...

Family Friendly

15 Jun 2020

Kryal Castle to lower its drawbridge on 27 June

Another Ballarat tourist attraction has announced a reopening date, with Kryal Castle to resume operations on Saturday 27 June. During the Victorian school holidays (27 June – 12 July), the...

Uncategorized

12 Jun 2020

Unwind this winter

Take some time for yourself this winter to relax and unwind. Indulge with treatments at a relaxing day spa, de-stress with a spot of yoga or explore a relaxing hobby...

Food & Drink

09 Jun 2020

Indulge in warming comfort food this winter

Winter in Ballarat may be cold, and some say it lasts forever, but we say every season has its unique charms. For winter that means warming up from the inside...

Food & Drink

09 Jun 2020

Ballarat’s favourite paddock (and pond) to plate experiences

Get the taste of farm life and soak up Ballarat’s fresh air, fertile land and wide open spaces this winter. Search for truffles The Ballarat region is perfectly suited for...

News

09 Jun 2020

Art Gallery of Ballarat to reopen doors on 1 July

Australia’s oldest and largest regional gallery will resume operations on Wednesday 1 July. The Art Gallery of Ballarat will open to a limited number of visitors from 10am-5pm daily using...

Food & Drink

09 Jun 2020

Warm up with delicious food next to a cosy fireplace

After a wintry day exploring Ballarat, warm up with delicious food and drink next to a crackling fireplace. Here are some of our favourite restaurants and bars with fireplaces. Mitchell...

Family Friendly

02 Jun 2020

Hit the road and unwind for the weekend

Home to warming hospitality, unlimited access to scenic walks and a welcome dose of fresh air, there’s so much to love about a winter in Ballarat. With that in mind...

Family Friendly

02 Jun 2020

Winter walks in the Ballarat region

Embrace the cold and head outside this winter for a welcome dose of fresh air, exercise and beautiful scenery. The Ballarat region is home to a bounty of picturesque lakes...

Family Friendly

02 Jun 2020

Ballarat Wildlife Park reopens to the public

The Ballarat Wildlife Park has reopened to visitors after it was forced to close its doors in late March in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. "The Parker family and the...

Family Friendly

28 May 2020

Ballarat's Kryal Castle to host Harry Potter stars this October

The English actors who played the Weasley twins in the hit Harry Potter films will make a special appearance in Ballarat later this year. James and Oliver Phelps (who starred...

See & Do

26 May 2020

Ballarat Heritage Weekend goes virtual in 2020

Ballarat Heritage Weekend will reach a worldwide audience for the first time in its 12-year history this weekend (30-31 May). One of the City of Ballarat’s most popular annual events...

Made of Ballarat

14 Apr 2020

From Ballarat with love

We're bringing the Ballarat region to you with our list of local businesses with online stores that deliver Australia-wide. Shop small, support local and be kind to Ballarat businesses during...

News

14 Apr 2020

Ballarat festival to help create visual COVID-19 record

The Ballarat International Foto Biennale is partnering with the United Kingdom's FORMAT International Photography Festival and Ireland's Gallery of Photography to create a visual record of the COVID-19 crisis on...

Food & Drink

25 Feb 2020

Ballarat's best burgers

Ballarat knows how to do a good burger – be it classic beef, crispy chicken or meat-free options for the health-conscious. We put the call out to our local Facebook...

News

18 Feb 2020

Excitement builds for Ballarat's Super Rugby double header

History will be made this weekend when Super Rugby comes to Ballarat for the very first time. Victoria’s own Melbourne Rebels will host a huge double header at Mars Stadium...

Food & Drink

18 Feb 2020

Faces of Ballarat: Tim Bone

He's the Prince Harry lookalike whose cooking prowess and cheeky smile won over Australia on the 2019 season of MasterChef. We spoke to Ballarat's very own Tim Bone about his...

Food & Drink

13 Feb 2020

Bringing about change in the beef industry

Order a Provenir beef dish at a local restaurant or cook a steak at home and you will experience a tender, tasty and juicy piece of beef, but what you...

Makers & Growers

13 Feb 2020

The beauty of bespoke at Gems and Jewels

Sparkling, shining, twinkling in the light. You’ve happened upon the most amazing jewellery box. The kind of jewellery box that is kept up high, in the top of the cupboard...

See & Do

05 Feb 2020

Join the fight against breast cancer at the 2020 Ballarat Cycle Classic

Get on your bike and raise money for breast cancer research at this month's 2020 Ballarat Cycle Classic. The Sunday 16 February event aims to raise over $300,000 to establish...

News

04 Feb 2020

Ballarat goes crazy for National Raspberry Drop Day

Ballarat businesses have joined forces with Sovereign Hill this February to celebrate the city's famous hard‐boiled lolly, the raspberry drop. Raspberry drop lemon meringue cakes, raspberry drop dessert pizzas and...

News

04 Feb 2020

Your guide to Ballarat's new Smarter Parking Plan

Ballarat’s new Smarter Parking Plan has been rolled out across the CBD. The parking meters are a mix of credit card and coin, with the added ability to pay via...

Food & Drink

04 Feb 2020

Get your craft beer (and, gin and cider) fix in Ballarat

Since we've already determined that Ballarat is the emerging craft beer capital, now we can disclose exactly where you can get your craft beer (and, gin and cider) fix. From...

See & Do

04 Feb 2020

Top six A-League showdown in Ballarat this February

Ballarat’s second A-League game this season will be a blockbuster when Western United and rivals Brisbane Roar rock Mars Stadium on Sunday 16 February. Brisbane Roar is coached by one...

News

30 Jan 2020

Ballarat to transform into a summer playground for big kids this February

Live music, fine food, craft beer plus elite and extreme sports will be the focus of Ballarat’s bumper line-up of events this February. In a coup for the city, Mars...

Food & Drink

30 Jan 2020

Discover the vast riches of the region with Eat Drink West

Kate Davis is a passionate foodie and expert in the culinary field, having focused on the beer, wine, and food industries over the last decade. She has long wanted to...

Makers & Growers

30 Jan 2020

How painting helped Anna Placidi heal

Our connection to nature begins at a young age. A thirst, or curiosity combined with the simple pleasure of free time; watching a snail slither across a path, a butterfly...

See & Do

23 Jan 2020

Take the plunge this summer

There’s something about summer that brings back memories of childhood. Is it the smell of the barbecues sizzling away with a hint of a water fight ready for action in...

Food & Drink

23 Jan 2020

Eat, drink, share at The Shared Table

Dianne Ray fondly remembers gathering around the dining room table as a child, enjoying a big breakfast in the presence of her loved ones.  Growing up on a dairy farm...

Makers & Growers

22 Jan 2020

A little slice of heaven at Lambley Gardens and Nursery

If ever there was a match made in heaven, it is very possible that it is the matching of David Glenn and Criss Canning.  David is a fourth-generation gardener and...

See & Do

21 Jan 2020

Celebrate the nation's top brews at the Ballarat Beer Festival

Australia's most popular regional beer festival returns to Ballarat this February for its ninth consecutive year. The Ballarat Beer Festival will be held on Saturday 15 February at North Gardens...

See & Do

14 Jan 2020

Step back in time at Rock Ballarat

Celebrate everything rock 'n' roll and rockabilly at Rock Ballarat this February. The 7-9 February festival will feature live music, fashion parades, classic cars, burlesque dance demonstrations, pin-up competitions and...

News

13 Jan 2020

More new live music venues and bars for Ballarat

Ballarat's entertainment scene continues to grow with the addition of several new bars and live music venues to the city's line-up in 2020. The sad face that resulted from the...

Food & Drink

13 Jan 2020

Your guide to Ballarat's best parmas

It's the classic pub dish that's developed a cult following - the chicken parmigiana. Ballarat folk love a good old parma so we put the call out on Facebook to...

News

10 Jan 2020

Ballarat secures RoadNats for another three years

In a coup for Ballarat, the city has scored the rights to host Cycling Australia's Road National Championships for the next three years. First held in Ballarat in 2002, the...

News

07 Jan 2020

How to support bushfire relief in Ballarat

If you’re visiting Ballarat this January, here's how you can help raise money to support those affected by the nation’s devastating bushfires. The Western Hotel’s Bushfire Fundraiser 1221 Sturt Street...

See & Do

20 Dec 2019

RoadNats set to roll into Ballarat this January

The most prestigious event on the Australian road cycling calendar returns to Ballarat next month. Between 8 and 12 January, the 2020 Federation University Road National Championships will see the...

News

20 Dec 2019

Ballarat to host Super Rugby match in 2020

Ballarat will become the first regional Australian town to host a Super Rugby match for premiership points in February 2020. The Melbourne Rebels will take on the Durban Sharks at...

See & Do

19 Dec 2019

A-League football is coming to Ballarat

A-League stars from around the world will bring top class football to Ballarat later this month. On Saturday 28 December, the city's adopted team, Western United, will go head to...

News

18 Dec 2019

Ballarat to show its creative side with new open studio program

Ballarat artists, makers and creatives will join forces for the city’s largest open studio program in April next year. From 3-13 April, Ballarat Open Studios: Art of Making will be...

Food & Drink

17 Dec 2019

The top beer gardens in Ballarat

Is there a better way to spend a lazy summer afternoon than enjoying a cold drink, good food and great company in a beer garden? From inner CBD gems to...

Family Friendly

17 Dec 2019

Summer school holiday programs in Ballarat

Think fun, think adventure, think summer school holidays in Ballarat. Sovereign Hill’s Summer Gold Rush program (26 December-27 January) brings with it a different adventure every day of the week...

See & Do

14 Dec 2019

You Am I frontman Tim Rogers to rock Summer Sundays

Australian rock musician Tim Rogers will form part of one of the biggest line-ups yet at Ballarat's popular Summer Sundays concert series this January. The You Am I frontman is...

See & Do

10 Dec 2019

The secrets to op shopping success in Ballarat

For Ballarat sustainable fashion advocate Bianca Flint, the benefits of shopping preloved are threefold. “Firstly and most importantly, it’s the right choice for our earth,” Bianca said. “We know we...

Food & Drink

10 Dec 2019

Where to get Ballarat’s best fish and chips

Think summer, think peak fish and chips season. From family picnics at Lake Wendouree to lazy lunches at the Eureka Stockade Gardens, fish and chips are definitely a quick and...

News

10 Dec 2019

Award accolades for Ballarat businesses

Ballarat continues to make its mark in the hospitality and tourism sectors, with a number of local businesses scoring statewide recognition at recent industry awards. The following businesses and individuals...

Sport & Outdoor Activities

09 Dec 2019

Hit the road on two wheels in Ballarat

— with @benxlehner

Ballarat has long been linked to bike riding. But you don’t have to wait for the annual championship in January. Instead there is something...

Family Friendly

09 Dec 2019

Enjoy a weekend away with your children

— with @chrissydore

Have toddler, will travel. Yes, I know what you’re thinking — in your dreams. But you can have an active little one, yet still...

See & Do

09 Dec 2019

A weekend for two in Ballarat

— with @ladydrewniak & @bykirstyirwin

With us both feeling a little stressed in the city, this wellbeing weekend in Ballarat seemed like just the thing. But if...

See & Do

05 Dec 2019

A yuletide adventure in Ballarat

Get into the festive spirit and discover all there is to see and do in Ballarat this December. Admire the Insta-worthy festival decorations along the city's main thoroughfare, follow the...

See & Do

05 Dec 2019

A summer of curious creatures

The Art Gallery of Ballarat is celebrating animals and art this summer with a series of exhibitions which all have a connection to creatures – creatures found in nature, creatures...

Family Friendly

05 Dec 2019

Ali Barter to headline Summer Sundays

Former triple j unearthed winner Ali Barter will take to the stage for week one of Summer Sundays at the Ballarat Botanical Gardens this January. The Melbourne-based singer/songwriter will be joined by Ballarat band Meraki...

Family Friendly

03 Dec 2019

Discover giant beasts and dinosaur fossils at Ballarat Bird World

Located just 15 minutes from the CBD, you’ll find Ballarat Bird World. But don’t let its name fool you, there is more to this popular sanctuary than first meets the...

Family Friendly

07 Nov 2019

Get ready to chart a creative journey of discovery

The long-awaited Fringe Benefits program – a complementary music, art and performance festival to the city’s largest inaugural music festival, Spilt Milk – has been launched. The city is set...

News

01 Nov 2019

Ballarat named UNESCO Creative City

The City of Ballarat has been announced as a UNESCO Creative City, in the area of Craft and Folk Art. Ballarat is one of 66 newly declared UNESCO cities and 246...

Family Friendly

23 Oct 2019

New ticket sales record for Nitro Circus ahead of 2020 Ballarat show

Nitro Circus’ upcoming Ballarat spectacular has broken a decade-long ticket sales record for the global sports entertainment leader. After just two days of pre-sale, nearly 2000 tickets have been sold...

Ballarat's best picnic spots

The sun is out, the lawns are lush and Ballarat’s parks and gardens are simply begging to be picnicked on! So grab your picnic basket and rug, pack up the...

Food & Drink

03 Sep 2019

Local producer wins prestigious medal

Local producer Creswick Open Range Farm is celebrating after winning a silver medalat the 2019 Australian Food Awards (AFA) for their superb free range eggs. This is the second time...

Places to Stay

24 Jul 2019

Once upon a time in a Ballarat palace…

Fancy a night or two in a 142-year-old Gothic bluestone mansion? Bishops Palace is one of Ballarat’s most unique accommodation offerings, giving visitors the chance to stay in a heritage-listed...

Family Friendly

09 Jul 2019

Ballarat’s best farm experiences

Get a taste of farm life and soak up the Ballarat region’s fresh air, fertile land and wide open spaces. Black Cat Truffles The Ballarat region is perfectly suited for...

News

09 Jul 2019

State recognition for The Provincial Hotel

After just eight months in business, The Provincial Hotel has been named Victoria’s best boutique style accommodation. The Ballarat hotel was awarded the accolade at the 2019 Tourism Accommodation Australia...

News

08 Jul 2019

Ballarat home to Australia’s best luxury day spa

A Ballarat day spa has been crowned Australia’s best of the best – not once, not twice but three times. Ballarat’s Sanctuary Day Spa snapped up three awards at the...

Food & Drink

08 Jul 2019

From petrol to pimped-up sandwiches

Have you heard the one about the old Ballarat service station that became a hip neighbourhood cafe? Introducing the NYC-inspired Drive, the culmination of 12 months of blood, sweat and...

Food & Drink

19 Jun 2019

A new high for Ballarat

The rollout of new Ballarat eateries continues this winter with the opening of the Melbourne-inspired Higher Society. If social media is anything to go by, locals and visitors alike are...