Ballaratians are spoilt for choice when it comes to eating out. You’ll find a strong and vibrant cafe culture just like in the big smoke. Farm-gate to plate doesn’t come any fresher than direct from the heartland of regional Victoria. Gourmet menus matched with boutique local wines can be savoured in intimate restaurants, or sample hand-crafted beer and hearty pub fare in rejuvenated historic venues. Ballarat is a foodie’s delight.
Haus Brewing
A traditional Spanish tapas bar and restaurant, at Meigas it’s all about sharing and enjoying a different cultural experience, while sampling a variety of traditional dishes from all over Spain. Open Tue – Thu 5pm – late, Fri – Sat 12pm – late. 33 Armstrong St Nth 5331 9444
We're a hand built brewery making great beer! Enjoy our beers on tap in our bar + local wines, cider & spirits. Kitchen always open. Our bar is cosy, relaxed & inclusive. Drop in for a meal or just drinks. See website for details.
884 Humffray St Sth Mt Pleasant 4343 1777 cubbyhausbrewing.com.au
Pic: ChipShots Photography Cubby
Saigon Allée
Take yourself back to the balmy nights of Vietnam with the warm environment and infused flavors of Saigon Allee, with a hint of France thrown in to add that extra little flair. Fully Licensed. Check online for our current opening hours.
30 Armstrong St Nth 4373 1583
6 Pancho
A standout Latin Bar and Eatery focusing on dishing up some of the best Central and South American eats coupled with a lively atmosphere and drinks to match. Open Wed 5pm – late, Thu– Sun 11:30am – late.
213 Mair St 5309 3070
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Follow the umbrellas down Hop Lane on Armstrong Street North to discover a place to eat, drink, socialise and explore 200+ craft beers.
Southern American style eats, including in house smoked meats.
Open Wednesday to Sunday
Rear of 24-28 Armstrong Street North Bookings at www.hoptemple.com.au
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In the old Goods Shed by Ballarat’s station tracks, ITINERANT SPIRITS hums with copper stills, clinking glasses, and the low buzz of good company. A distillery at work, a bar worth lingering in, and a room built for stories worth telling. Whether it’s a night out, a private bash, or rolling up your sleeves for a cocktail class or distillery tour. Call it in today!
The shopping hubs of Sturt St and Bridge Mall cater for almost anything you could need, but delve a little further and you’ll find some hidden gems. Ballarat’s shopkeepers bring colour to our streets in the form of beautifully curated spaces. Pay them a visit and find out why residents of our city love to #buylocalballarat.
The Crafty Squirrel
A must visit when in Ballarat. The Crafty Squirrel stocks unique one-of-a-kind craft kits, vintage goodies, gorgeous haberdashery & treasures from around the world.
Open Thu – Fri 10 – 5, Sat 10 – 4. (Closed 30 Aug - 20 Sep, 16 - 25 Oct).
A truly niche fragrance perfumery housing a large collection of the finest perfumes from around world. We love to share our knowledge of fragrance, together with our beautiful ranges of botanical skincare for face & body. Open Thu – Sat 11am – 3pm.
L1, 27 Sturt St (via Go Vita) 5332 9297
sweetfern.com.au
Hattie and the Wolf is Ballarat’s go-to destination for handmade, local, ethical and artisanal gifts, fashion and accessories. A ‘must visit’ creative hub for the social and eco conscious shopper. Open Tue – Fri 10 – 5, Sat 10 – 4, Sun 10 – 3. 202 South St 0478 088 055 hattieandthewolf.com.au
Rocket and Belle
Rocket and Belle sells an eclectic array of antiques, decorative vintage, farm and industrial pieces for your home and garden. Interesting new stock arrives weekly. Open Thu 11 – 2, Fri 11 – 3, Sat 11 – 4.
The Shed on Mair 37 Mair St 0402 032 088 rocketandbelle.com.au
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At the historic Adam Lindsay Gordon Cottage the Crafts Council of Ballarat sells a wide variety of quality handcrafted items made by artisans in the Ballarat area. Open Thu –Mon from Sep to Jun, weekends in Jul & Aug.
Ballarat Botanical Gardens, Lake Wendouree 5334 2005
craftscouncilballarat.com.au
38 Map1D5
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Ross Creek Gallery showcases pottery by Ruby Pilven alongside monthly exhibitions spotlighting diverse contemporary 2D and 3D artists. Open Sat & Sun 11am – 4pm or by appointment. Only 15 mins from Ballarat.
183 Post Office Rd Smythes Creek 0430 886 428 rubypilven.com
Pic: Bron Peters Photography
HAVE A WILD TIME
Take a relaxing walk around our picturesque park where you can learn and interact with our extensive collection of Australian native animals and reptiles as well as global and endangered species. Hand feed over 100 free roaming kangaroos, cuddle a koala, see Crunch the Super-Croc, Victoria's largest Komodo Dragon, Tassie devils, snakes, penguins, our Siberian/Sumatran tigers and much more...
OPEN 7 DAYS 9am - 5pm
Ballarat Tramway Museum
of times past.
ATTRACTIONS & TOURS
Cuthberts Tram High Tea
One of Australia’s best preserved heritage cities, Ballarat will have you intrigued with her grand historic buildings, beautiful gardens and cobbled laneways. Ballarat’s many museums and tours bring history to life, revealing secrets and stories of times past. With so much on offer in Ballarat you may just want to extend your stay!
Escapade is a live-action escape experience that will test your mental strength in a fun, exhilarating environment. Pick your team of 2-6 people to escape one of 3 experiences within 60 minutes. Open 7 days - book online. 10% OFF CODE: BESTOFBALLARAT
3/61 Curtis St (rear) 0411 491 008 escapadepuzzle.com.au
See trams between 100 and 135 years old that ran in Ballarat, Melbourne and Geelong, plus other pieces of tramway equipment and memorabilia. High Tea on Cuthberts Vintage Tram thru Spring. Open Tue 10am - 3pm, weekends & public hols. 11am - 4pm.
Wendouree Parade 5334 1580
btm.org.au
Ballarat Tramway Museum
EUREKA CENTRE BALLARAT
Be Active Walk 6km around scenic Lake Wendouree and stroll through the beautiful Botanical Gardens. Swim or Gym at Ballarat Aquatic & Lifestyle Centre. Tackle Black Hill Reserve Mountain Bike Park & Walking Tracks. For the kids there are fun adventure playgrounds at Lake Wendouree and Victoria Park. Explore the historic Old Cemetery with early gold rush graves, Eureka Stockade monuments & Chinese graves.
WHAT'S ON
Our mission is to make sure you never miss an event, and we love seeing visitors share these experiences with the locals. What better way to get under the skin of a city? With festivals, live music, theatre, exhibitions, markets and so much more, Ballarat has it all. Get amongst it!
BALLARAT INTERNATIONAL FOTO BIENNALE
23 Aug - 19 Oct 2025
TICKETS: BALLARATFOTO.ORG
The Ballarat International Foto Biennale is a thrilling blend of curated exhibitions, city‑wide pop‑ups, workshops, talks, and more—all under the festival’s central theme, Lifeforce.
I ♥ CAMPBELL
Campbell Addy (GHA/GBR)
Campbell Addy’s images are about the beauty of humans, about difference, about being seen. His work has featured in magazines including Dazed, i–D, Rolling Stone, The Wall Street Journal, Time and Vogue, and campaigns for global brands. This exhibition presents Addy’s most compelling works, including the selfportrait John Baptist, striking fashion images, and the film Decolonise My Tongue with Love, shot in Ghana exploring love and identity.
Ballarat Mining Exchange 12 Lydiard St Nth
ENNINFUL X MAPPLETHORPE
Robert Mapplethorpe (USA)
Robert Mapplethorpe (1946-1989) was a master photographer whose work created a pressure between light and dark, celebrity and underground, sacred and profane, ripple and form. Ghanaian-born British editor, Edward Enninful OBE in cooperation with the Robert Mapplethorpe Foundation, presents his singular vision of the photographer’s work.
Post Office Gallery Cnr Sturt & Lydiard St Nth
ONE–WAY TICKET TO VIETNAM
1966–1968
Catherine Leroy (FRA)
Catherine Leroy's work shows the emotion and humanity of both the troops and the Vietnamese people alike. Gravely wounded in action, captured by the People’s Army of Vietnam and later documenting the Fall of Saigon at her own initiative, Leroy’s fearless storytelling reshaped war photography.
Ballarat Town Hall First Floor 225 Sturt St
MARTIN KANTOR PORTRAIT PRIZE
The Martin Kantor Portrait Prize is an exceptional opportunity for photo media artists to showcase their talent and have their work viewed at one of the most prestigious photographic events in Australia. The prize is acquisitive, with the first prize of $15,000 awarded to the most exceptional portrait.
GovHub Catobeen Room 101 Armstrong St Nth
PROMPTED PECULIAR
International AI Prize
Now in its second year, the Prompted Peculiar International AI Prize brings us squarely into the rapidly evolving world of AI-generated imagery. This global competition explores the intersection of creativity and technology, inviting artists to use AI as a tool to generate visual art through the act of prompting.
The Miners Tavern 120 Lydiard St Nth THÀNH PHẨM
Lê Nguyên Phương (VNM/AUS)
Historically, global perceptions of the American War in Viet Nam have been shaped by the American ‘industry of memory’—a structure in which the Vietnam War is remembered and framed primarily by Western media. Thành Phẩm contextualises artist Lê Nguyên Phương’s attempt to offer a counter-archive to the hegemonic American perspective of this war.
Ballarat Library 178 Doveton St Nth
HIGH EXPOSURE
Annelìse Seréna Belladonna (AUS)
Max Deutscher (AUS) Jett Leduc (AUS)
Step beyond the gallery and into the streets. Featuring photographic artworks by emerging Ballarat-based artists in response to the 2025 Ballarat International Foto Biennale theme, Lifeforce, this curated outdoor exhibition spans the city’s laneways and heritage walls.
Various locations
MULTIPURPOSE
Brian O'Dwyer (AUS)
Multipurpose is a photography project capturing the early-morning attendees at the Ballarat Aquatic Centre. The photos focus on individuals who use the multipurpose pool, designed for injury rehabilitation, between 6am and 7:30am.
Backspace Gallery 43 Mair St
LONG EXPOSURE: THE LEGACY OF PRAHRAN COLLEGE
This exhibition demonstrates what a life-force photography can be. The exhibitors, all photography students at Prahran CAE from the late 1960s to its closure in 1991, continue to photograph after diverse careers. There was no ‘house style’ at Prahran in the 1960s, 70s and 80s, beyond its inspiration to make pictures.
The Miners Tavern 120 Lydiard St Nth
NIIJOURNAL
Campbell Addy (GHA/GBR)
Launched in 2016 by British-Ghanaian photographer Campbell Addy, Niijournal has become a vital and unapologetic platform for underrepresented voices — amplifying the work of Black creatives. This exhibition brings together highlights from across Niijournal’s issues, tracing a dynamic visual journey through themes of identity, race, sexuality & spirituality.
RACV Goldfields Resort
1500 Midland Hwy, Creswick
NATURE~ISTA
Leila Jeffreys (AUS)
Maria Fernanda Cardoso (COL)
Jeffreys and Cardoso explore the natural world’s most stylish inhabitants—birds, spiders, and mythical beasts—through studio photography and sculptural imagination. From feathers to fur, scales to silk, this exhibition invites us to see animals not just as subjects of science, but as icons of beauty, personality, and fashion.
RACV Goldfields Resort
1500 Midland Hwy, Creswick
HAGOROMO (FULL FLOWER MOON)
Hiromi Tango (JAP/AUS)
Inspired by classical Japanese theatre, Noh, as well as Hanakatoba, (the Japanese language of flowers), the Hagoromo (Full Flower Moon) series explores the artist’s Japanese—Australian cultural identity, delving into uncomfortable spaces of grief, separation, longing and loss.
RACV Goldfields Resort
1500 Midland Hwy, Creswick
MEMORY MATRIX
Jody Haines (AUS) Debasish Mukherjee (IND)
When the shifting containment of memory is poked and prodded by a place, its smell, its pace or even the tone of its lighting plays
with the chronology and weightage of the memory itself. Explored through the lens of two practitioners, Palawa artist Jody Haines and Debasish Mukherjee from New Delhi, this exhibition negotiates this relationship of memory and identity.
Bridge Mall/The Goods Shed 200 Lydiard St Nth
GUMA
Leicolhn McKellar (AUS)
Set in urban Darwin, Guma captures the everyday lives of First Nations families, celebrating their strength, connection and presence in spaces often excluded from mainstream representations. Guma reclaims the visual narrative, presenting First Nations peoples as they are: multifaceted, contemporary and unbound by stereotype.
Art Screen Alfred Deakin Place
GRADFOTO
Monika Makour (AUS) Harry Merriman (AUS) Jesse Pretorius (AUS) Emily Raffaele (AUS) GradFoto captures a new generation of artists working in contemporary photography. This exhibition presents the winners and highlycommended finalists of the 2024 GradFoto Award, an annual prize recognising the work of graduating photo-media artists from institutions across Australia and New Zealand.
GovHub Precinct 101 Armstrong St Nth
THE CITY DOESN’T KNOW YOUR NAME
Sam Bloor (AUS) Jesse Marlow (AUS)
At the height of the COVID19 lockdowns, WA visual artist Sam Bloor & Melbourne photographer Jesse Marlow found a creative connection across closed borders. The series began with a simple exchange: Marlow’s photographs sent across the country, Bloor’s words written in response. Installed as paste-up posters in their respective cities, the works appeared unannounced in public space.
Police Lane
BIFB OPEN PROGRAM
Over 90 exhibitions in diverse venues, turning Ballarat's cafes, bars, businesses & laneways into an immersive arts experience.
Details: ballaratfoto.org
EXHIBITIONS EXHIBITIONS
UNTIL 26 OCT
BEYOND THE CITY LIMITS
What is there to see in the regions of Ballarat?
See an eclectic mix of art from current members of the Ballarat Society of Artists, as they return to the museum once more with a new display.
Lake Wendouree Museum 27 Wendouree Pde
UNTIL 29 NOV
ARTIST IN RESIDENCE:
ALANA SMITH: CUT OFF YOUR HANDS JEWELLERY
Jeweller Alana Smith has set up a working studio and pop-up shop where visitors can view her heavily textured, oxidised, Brutalist-inspired pieces. Learn more about her creative practice and see her at work.
Art Hub 10 Lydiard St Nth
6 - 21 SEP
BREN LUKE:
THINGS NEAR PLACES DEAR
This collection of drawings, paintings and photographs comprise some of my most personal work to date. As the title of the show suggests, these are works which celebrate and investigate, in great detail, some of the everyday and familiar objects that surround me, the things near. Opening Sat 6 Sep, 1pm.
Ross Creek Gallery
183 Post Office Rd, Smythes Creek
6 - 28 SEP
TIM GRESHAM: ATMOS
This exhibition of photographs reflect the atmosphere and changing moods of Lake Wendouree, captured during the artist's morning walks. They explore the colours and forms in the sky and how it interacts with the water. The consistently centred horizon allows the photographs to effectively compose themselves and create an abstract dance from image to image.
Old Butchers Shop Gallery 112 Seymour St
6 SEP - 3
OCT
MAT RAM: DREAMS OF BAKERY HILL
The City of Ballarat is awake and Bridge Mall has become a bustling hive of business activity. But what happens when the city sleeps? Does the city dream with us? Who occupies the dreamscapes? Who lurks in the alleys and laneways? Take a step into the dreamscapes and explore the alleys and laneways of Bridge Mall and Bakery Hill. Opening Sat 6 Sep, 2pm.
TBH Studio 57 Bridge Mall
13 SEP - 4 OCT
EARTHING
Earthing is an invitation to remember. Through memory, folklore, and the raw elements of nature, eight artists trace the sacred threads that bind us to the Earth. Across diverse media, their works speak of rootedness, reverence, and the quiet power of place—reminding us that to touch the ground is to return home. Opening Sat 13 Sep, 2pm.
Kank Wolverang Records 30 Main Rd
15 SEP - 11 OCT
THE Y BALLARAT’S YOUTH ART EXHIBITION
This year’s Youth Art Exhibition explores the theme of “Identity”—who we are, where we come from, what we believe, and how we express ourselves in the world. Young creatives aged 12-25 were asked to respond to the theme and share their story through art.
Barkly Square 25-39 Barkly St
19 - 22 SEP
WEIRD AND WONDERFUL
Botanical art exhibition presented by the Ballarat Botanical Art Group. By definition certain plant species have unusual appearance; they can look odd, strange & bizarre. These plants & fungi, chosen by the artists, are grown in Australia and some have been illustrated in an enlarged format to show the specific, strange or unusual features of the plant.
Robert Clark Centre Gillies St, Wendouree issuu.com/bestofballarat
4 - 19 OCT
SHAC ON TRACK 25
The variety of artistic expression from Soldiers Hill Artist Collective members is truly amazing. This exhibition showcases the works of some of SHAC’s most recent members, alongside those established members. Opening Sat 4 Oct, 1pm.
Ross Creek Gallery
183 Post Office Rd, Smythes Creek
4 - 26 OCT
CASEY MCINTOSH: MERCHANTS AND MUSICIANS
Featuring vibrant and engaging painted portraits and places that celebrate the diverse individuals contributing to our community. Those portrayed include master chefs, a dedicated butcher, baker and musicians. Through these portraits the exhibition aims to capture their stories and unique character.
Old Butchers Shop Gallery
112 Seymour St
10 - 12 OCT
THE BUNINYONG ART PRIZE & EXHIBITION
Showcasing diverse works from emerging and established artists, with significant prizes awarded - and all artworks for sale. Set in the historic Buninyong Town Hall, it is a celebration of creativity and the region’s thriving arts community.
Buninyong Town Hall
309A Learmonth St, Buninyong
11 OCT - 8 NOV
WOMEN TO THE FRONT
Women to the Front celebrates the trailblazing front women of music through the eyes of local artists Emily N3ver and Craig Frankland. From Emily’s bold portraits of icons like Kate Bush and Dolly Parton to Craig’s sculptural creations inspired by the same fearless spirit, this exhibition is a vibrant tribute to women who changed the sound and the story of music.
Opening Sat 11 Oct, 2pm.
Kank Wolverang Records 30 Main Rd
25 OCT - 7 DEC
Petra Rodgers
Cherry sampler 2025
PETRA RODGERS: SONG IN THE WOOD
For Ballarat artist Petra Rodgers, timber has become her chosen material for carrying memories. The subjects rendered on the timber boards, sourced from old photographs and archives, are symbols of the artist’s life experiences. The drawings, paintings and assemblages explore aspects of her life, ranging from picking cherries as a child to current affections for folk music and textiles. In a digital and increasingly plastic age, the artist celebrates timber as a medium into a more tacit and analogue present.
Backspace Gallery 43 Mair St
28 OCT - 9 DEC
MARINA BOOTH: LOVE OF THE SEA
A collection of artworks in different mediums, from painting to sculpture, capturing the most unique and intriguing of water creatures, the octopus.
Unicorn Lane off 133 Sturt St (viewing 24/7)
31 OCT - 23 NOV
LEAH TORLY: BIG CITY LIGHTS
Artist Leah Torly has created a series of cityscape paintings of sites found in Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto and closer to home with Ballarat and Melbourne. Cities are captured in an Impressionist style with a Cyberpunk aesthetic.
Art Space Ballarat 14 Lydiard St Nth
1 - 16 NOV
ANGIE ROBINSON:
ELECTRIC EMBERS
My ceramics work is both a response to the natural environment that surrounds me and a connection to the legacy of ceramic work that has come before. My ceramics are more than objects; they are vessels of connection—to the earth and its raw materials, to the process of creation, and to the human imagination.
Opening Sat 1 Nov, 1pm.
Ross Creek Gallery
183 Post Office Rd, Smythes Creek
1 - 23 NOV
KERRY FLETCHER: WEATHERING
The exhibition reflects the climate differences we're experiencing and the shocking news-ofthe-world that we've all been having to come to terms with, both politically, geographically and ecologically...each through our own philosophical lens. The exhibition presents mainly local landscapes which traverse a multiverse of emotions. And the weather.
Old Butchers Shop Gallery 112 Seymour St
1 NOV - 6 DEC
EUREKA ART AWARD 2025
A biennial exhibition celebrating the rich depth of past Ballarat Arts Foundation Visual Arts grant recipients. Past winners include Kim Anderson, Aldona Kmiec, Ash Coates, Dr. Deanne Gilson and Ben Howell. A $2500 cash prize is awarded on the opening night. The $500 People Choice Award is voted by you, the public.
Gallery 10 10 Bridge Mall
6 - 23 NOV
SUNNYSIDE
Sunnyside is a brand new art experience which is bold, vibrant and wonderfully fantastical. Featuring internationally renowned UK artist Morag Myerscough, Sunnyside invites visitors on a journey of discovery from colourful
Pet Portrait Artist
High quality soft pastel portraits
Local artist Maggie Dannatt can create a lasting portrait of your beloved pet
laneways to unexpected creative spaces. This is a celebration of art, imagination, and place co-created with the community. Join us for an immersive experience, workshops, talks, pop-ups & more. Info: sunnysideart.com.au.
The Mining Exchange 12 Lydiard St Nth & surrounds
8 - 9 NOV
HIDDEN GEMS ARTIST STUDIOS
Nestled in the countryside just minutes from Ballarat, explore a mini arts trail with studios just minutes apart. Discover printmaking, sculpture, painting, ceramics and Aboriginal Art. Meet local artists & explore their diverse styles. Info: hiddengemsartstudios.com
15 - 23 NOV
EYE 2025
Showcasing undergraduate Visual Arts students currently studying Bachelor of Visual Arts and Bachelor of Education at Federation University Arts Academy, this important 'end of year' show celebrates new talent and skill and a snapshot and window into recent developments in contemporary art in the region.
Post Office Gallery Cnr Sturt & Lydiard St Nth
15 NOV - 13 DEC
COVER VERSIONS ’25
There’s a good chance that many hours of your youth were dedicated to wearing headphones while holding the record or CD covers of the bands and music you loved. They have become windows to our memories and often guide our own creativity into the future. Cover Versions is a group show of artists' re-interpretations of iconic (and obscure) record cover images in a wide variety of media and styles.
Opening Sat 15 Nov, 2pm.
Kank Wolverang Records 30 Main Rd
25 NOV - 10 DEC
16 DAYS OF ACTIVISM AGAINST GENDER BASED VIOLENCE
16 Days of Activism is a global campaign highlighting the issue of gender-based violence. It calls communities to action to prevent and
eliminate violence against women and girls. This exhibition showcases artworks of survivors of family and sexual violence.
Art Space Ballarat 14 Lydiard St Nth
29 NOV - 30 JAN HENRIK HAUKELAND: TEXT/SCREEN/TEXT
Swedish-born Henrik Haukeland is an earlycareer artist living in Naarm/Melbourne. His TEXT/SCREEN/TEXT is a work that draws from celluloid archives. By splicing together the title frames from countless films, Haukeland’s work presents a ‘mash-up’ that creates new sentences and meanings from movie titles. Haukeland’s application of cut-ups to moving image works dives deeper into an understanding of cinematic language.
Art Screen - Art Gallery of Ballarat
Alfred Deakin Place (at rear of the Gallery)
THE MAIN BAR
LIVE MUSIC LIVE MUSIC
26 Main Rd, Bakery Hill events.humanitix.com/host/the-main-bar
FRI 5 SEP 7pm Koun Vincent
FRI 12 SEP 7pm One Part Gin
FRI 19 SEP 7pm Jonny Driver
SAT 20 SEP 7pm Nasal Spray, Hot Lemons, DDS
FRI 26 SEP 7pm Aliyah Duo
SAT 4 OCT 7pm Victoriana Gaye Duo
SAT 11 OCT 7pm Distorta, Sons of Erebus, Cosmonaut
FRI 17 OCT 7pm Jessey Jackson
SAT 18 OCT 7pm Surfe
CIVIC HALL
300 Mair St • 5333 5888 • hermaj.com
FRI 5 SEP 7:30pm The Cat Empire
SAT 13 SEP 7:30pm John Butler
SAT 4 OCT 8pm Katie NoonanJeff Buckley’s Grace tour
THU 16 OCT 7pm Pub Choir
SAT 8 NOV 8pm Tania Kernaghan & Jason Owen
SUN 30 NOV 2pm Vic Opera - The Big Xmas Sing
HER MAJESTY'S THEATRE
17 Lydiard St Sth • 5333 5888 • hermaj.com
SUN 26 OCT 5:30pm Royal South Street Countpro Showcase
FRI 7 NOV 7:30pm RocKwiz Live in '25!
TUE 11 NOV 8pm The Animals (UK)
KILDERKIN DISTILLERY
14A Hill St, Mt Pleasant • 0424 791 790 kilderkindistillery.com.au
SUN 28 SEP 2pm Blue Ren
FRI 10 OCT 7:30pm Valley Road
FRI 7 NOV 7:30pm Out Of Hand, Sadie Mustoe
THE GOODS SHED
Terminus Theatre • 200 Lydiard St Nth thegoodsshedballarat.com.au
SAT 18 OCT 6pm Candlelight: Tribute to Queen
SAT 18 OCT 8pm Candlelight: The Best of Hans Zimmer
THU 23 OCT 7pm Australian Eagles Show
SAT 15 NOV 7:30pm The Simon & Garfunkel Story
WENDOUREE CENTRE
FOR PERFORMING ARTS
1220 Howitt St • 5338 0980 • wcpa.com.au
SAT 6 SEP 8pm Michael Jackson - King of Pop
SAT 13 SEP 7:30pm The 60 Four
SUN 14 SEP 6pm Taylor - A Tribute to the Eras of Taylor Swift
FRI 19 SEP 8pm One Night in MemphisPresley, Orbison, Cash
THU 2 OCT 7:30pm The Vallies - Frankie, Motown & Rock'n'Roll
SAT 4 OCT 7:30pm The 70s 80s 90s Show
SAT 11 OCT 7:30pm Elton John & The Divas
SUN 12 OCT 2pm Phantom - Michael Crawford Tribute
SAT 8 NOV 7:30pm The Beatles: Rebooted
SUN 9 NOV 2pm Bonegilla - The Migrant's Journey
SAT 15 NOV 7:30pm Creedence Clearwater Collective
KANK WOLVERANG RECORDS
30 Main Rd, Bakery Hill
SUN 7 SEP 2pm Exosquelette & Nampo
SUN 14 SEP 2pm Briamber Jane
SUN 21 SEP 2pm Michael Groth & Phil Coyle
SUN 28 SEP 2pm The Black Sea Country Club
SUN 5 OCT 2pm Tom & Freya
SUN 12 OCT 2pm Velora
SUN 19 OCT 2pm The Hot Lemons
SUN 26 OCT 2pm Jack Howe
SUN 2 NOV 2pm Rhyley McGrath
SUN 9 NOV 2pm 100 Moods
SUN 16 NOV 2pm Square Wave Bounce
SUN 23 NOV 2pm Dream Tree
SUN 30 NOV 2pm Paige Duggan
HOP
TEMPLE
Rear of 24-28 Armstrong St Nth 6155 2216 • hoptemple.com.au
WED NIGHTS 7pm Hop Trivia
THU NIGHTS 7pm Music Bingo
FRI NIGHTS 8:30pm Beats, Brews & BBQs + DJ
SATURDAYS 9pm Live Music
SUNDAYS 1:30pm Blues & Brews
SAT 6 SEP 9pm Untapped
SUN 7 SEP 1:30pm Bill Barber
SAT 13 SEP 9pm Bec & Marty
SUN 14 SEP 1:30pm Aaron Pollock
SAT 20 SEP 9pm Retro Revival
SUN 21 SEP 1:30pm Troy Wilson & Trevor Maddicks
SAT 27 SEP 9pm Travis McCarthy
SUN 28 SEP 1:30pm Grim Fawkner
SAT 4 OCT 9pm No Strings Attached
SUN 5 OCT 1:30pm Midnight Drive
SAT 11 OCT 9pm Bec & Marty
SUN 12 OCT 1:30pm Bret Mosley
SAT 18 OCT 9pm Retro Revival
SUN 19 OCT 1:30pm Jarrod Shaw
SAT 25 OCT 9pm Untapped
SUN 26 OCT 1:30pm Iseula
SAT 1 NOV 9pm Brodie Glen
SUN 2 NOV 1:30pm Gravy Train
SAT 8 NOV 9pm Bec & Marty
SUN 9 NOV 1:30pm Anna Scionti
SAT 15 NOV 9pm Retro Revival
SUN 16 NOV 1:30pm Mick Trembath
SAT 22 NOV 9pm Untapped
SUN 23 NOV 1:30pm Tommy McEwan
SAT 29 NOV 9pm Pink Moon
SUN 30 NOV 1:30pm Bill Barber
VOLTA
15 Field St • voltaballarat.com.au
SAT 20 SEP 7pm Merci, Mercy
SAT 27 SEP 7:30pm Peter Bibby
THU 2 OCT 7:30pm The Smith Street Band
SUN 5 OCT 7pm Thirsty Merc
THU 9 OCT 8pm Seth Sentry
FRI 17 OCT 7pm Eliza & The Delusionals
FRI 24 OCT 7pm Reliqa & Future Static
SAT 1 NOV 7pm The Tullamarines
BALLARAT PERFORMING
ARTS CENTRE
501 – 503 Neill St, Soldiers Hill bpacballarat.org
SAT 11 OCT 7:30pm 10 Years Of Tom: homage to Tom Waits
SUN 19 OCT 7:30pm The Passion of Joan of Arc - 1928 silent film with curated score of gothic-inspired music by French composer Erik Satie (Tix: ballaratfoto.org)
ODESSA AT LEAVER'S HOTEL
80 Albert Street, Creswick • 0428 694 258 facebook.com/OdessaAtLeaversHotel
SAT 6 SEP 2pm & 6pm Frente
FRI 12 SEP 7pm Hugo Race & Michelangelo Russo
FRI 19 SEP 6:30pm Juan Alban & The Guilt Zone (Trio)
SAT 20 SEP 7pm Lachie Gill
SUN 21 SEP 6pm Skyscraper Stan
FRI 3 OCT Bella Deer
SUN 26 OCT 1:30pm Tim Rogers
THU 6 NOV 6pm Isabel Rumble & Seren Spain
FRI 7 NOV 7pm Frank Yamma
SAT 8 NOV 7pm David Bridie
CHISHOLM ST.
Black Hill, Ballarat • chisholmst.com
5 & 6 SEP Piano Miniatures: Bronwyn Blaiklock
FRI 24 OCT Chris McNulty & friends
SUN 9 NOV Angelina Wang & Benjamin Bi
BALLAARAT
MECHANICS’ INSTITUTE
117 Sturt St • 5331 3042 • ballaratmi.org.au
SUN 5 OCT 3pm Three Russian Piano Trios
PIANO BAR BALLARAT
31 Sturt St • 0466 191 919 pianobarballarat.com.au
FRI & SAT NIGHTS 7pm Piano Bar by Request
THU NIGHTS 7pm Drag Bingo
SUN 7 SEP 2pm Nikki Nicholls: Songs & Story of Carole King
WED 17 SEP 7pm Granny Bingo
THU 18 SEP 7pm Kath & Kim Drag Bingo
SUN 5 OCT 2pm Bachelor Girl
SUN 12 OCT 2pm Fleetwood Max
SUN 19 OCT 2pm Listen to the Music: Santana & Doobie Brothers Tribute
SUN 23 NOV 2pm The Goddess of Pop: Cher Tribute
UNTIL 27 OCT
STAGE STAGE
ROYAL SOUTH STREET SOCIETY BALLARAT EISTEDDFOD
The Royal South Street Society Ballarat Eisteddfod is the country's oldest running Eisteddfod and home to Australia’s rising stars. The annual Eisteddfod stage is a nurturing platform for artistic growth, where performers can develop their talents and flourish in the spotlight, or simply develop a love and appreciation for the performing arts. Info: royalsouthstreet.com.au
FRI 5 SEP 12pm
THE GRUFFALO'S CHILD
Join the Gruffalo’s Child on her adventurous mission in this magical musical adaptation of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s much-loved picture book. One wild and windy night the Gruffalo’s Child ignores her father’s warnings about the Big Bad Mouse and tiptoes out into the deep dark wood. After all, the Big Bad Mouse doesn’t really exist... does he?
Tix: hermaj.com
Her Majesty’s Theatre 17 Lydiard St Sth
WED 10 SEP 7:30pm
DUCK POND
WED 17 SEP 7:30pm THU 18 SEP 11am
LOOKING FOR ALIBRANDI
Josie Alibrandi is in her final year of high school. Whip-smart and aspirational, she is a thirdgeneration Italian teenager and scholarship kid, with the shadow of a family curse and a penchant for rule-breaking. Juggling grades, boys, and the claustrophobia of an overbearing Nonna and saintly mother, Josie’s life becomes tangled in the webs of class, identity, and family history as she finds her place in a changing world. Tix: hermaj.com
Her Majesty’s Theatre 17 Lydiard St Sth
2 - 4 OCT 11am & 2pm
PILLOWLAND
Stanley always has trouble falling asleep –even counting sheep doesn’t help! When he receives an invitation to visit the Kingdom of Pillowland, he sets off on an exciting adventure with his friends Finn and Quinn. Pillowland is an interactive play for very young theatre audiences (ages 2 - 6).
Tix: creswicktheatre.com.au
Creswick Courthouse Theatre 2 Raglan St, Creswick
Creswick Theatre Company presents
Creswick Theatre Company presents
PILLOWLAND
October 2 - 4, 2025: 11am and 2 pm Creswick Theatre Company presents
A magical adventure for little audience members” October 2 - 4, 2025: 11am and 2 pm
October 2 - 4, 2025: 11am and 2 pm
Feathers will fly in Circa's exuberant take on Swan Lake. The world's most romantic ballet is re-imagined as a circus spectacular, full of Circa’s signature physicality and shot through with cheeky humour and a thoroughly contemporary energy. Be swept away by this tale of swans and hapless princes sparkling with quirky touches like the sequinned flipperwearing duck army and a burlesque black swan. There are sumptuous aerials, jaw-dropping acrobatics and of course feathers!
Tix: hermaj.com
Her Majesty’s Theatre 17 Lydiard St Sth
October 2 - 4, 2025: 11am and 2 pm
Written by Barbara Zinn Krieger
Written by Barbara Zinn Krieger Based on the song
Written by Barbara Zinn Krieger Based on the song “Pillowland” by Laurie Berkner
Written by Barbara Zinn Krieger Based on the song “Pillowland” by Laurie Berkner Originally produced by New York City Children’s Theatre
Written by Barbara Zinn Krieger Based on the song "Pillowland" by Laurie Berkner. Originally produced by New York City Children's Theatre
ROCKWIZLIVE.COM.AU
16 - 19 OCT
GOD OF CARNAGE
LIVE IN 2 5 ! HER MAJESTY’S
After the event of school yard bullying, four parents' differing views may have just created cause for another round; adults edition. By evening's end, the gloves are well and truly off, with the adults behaving in a manner that is eerily similar to that which occurred on the playground. God of Carnage is a one act black comedy play. It won best comedy at the 2009 Tony Awards and the 2009 Laurence Olivier Awards. Tix: bnt.org.au
Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute 117 Sturt St
THU 6 NOV 7:30pm
ROMEO AND JULIET
After a chance meeting, an intense but forbidden love is ignited between two young lovers, Romeo and Juliet. And despite the unending, violent feud between their families, they will risk everything to be together. This raw portrayal of Romeo & Juliet will envelop you in the passion, the intensity and the heartbreak of Shakespeare’s most evocative tragedy. Tix: hermaj.com
Her Majesty’s Theatre 17 Lydiard St Sth
7:30pm
ROCKWIZ LIVE IN '25!
Fresh questions, surprise special guests and the signature spark that has made it an Aussie cult classic. Expect big names alongside tomorrow’s stars, riotous singalongs, audience members sharing the stage, mayhem and madness and that unmistakable buzz when live music, spontaneous comedy and pure love for music collide. Julia Zemiro, Brian Nankervis, Dugald and the legendary RocKwiz Orkestra will supply the secret sauce for an uproarious night of entertainment. Tix: hermaj.com
Her Majesty’s Theatre 17 Lydiard St Sth
SUN 30 NOV 2pm
THE BIG CHRISTMAS SING
Let your voice and spirit soar – sing along with Victorian Opera, The Ballarat Choral Society and Ballarat Symphony Orchestra in an afternoon of festive music, operatic hits and orchestral favourites. This popular community event encourages audience members to sing along as we kickstart the holiday season.
Tix: hermaj.com
Civic Hall 300 Mair St
MORE TO DO MORE TO DO
ONGOING AURA
The story of gold in a 90 minute high impact, graphic presentation which explores the creation, discovery and impact of the precious metal, then and now. Tix: sovereignhill.com.au
Sovereign Hill Bradshaw St, Golden Point
SAT 13 SEP 8pm
LAUGH FOR LIFELINE
COMEDY FUNDRAISER
Lifeline supports people struggling with their mental health. What can some comedians in Ballarat do to help? We can boost positivity, give a room full of laughs and raise some funds. Tix: bpacballarat.org
BPAC 501 – 503 Neill St, Soldiers Hill
SUN 14 SEP 2pm
VANESSA LARRY MITCHELL: LUBE ME ALONE
Expect more dating stories (or lack-of-dating stories), more about parenting and anatomy awareness, and more things that should never be said out loud!
Tix: pianobarballarat.com.au
Piano Bar 31 Sturt St
27 SEP - 4 OCT
MODEL T FORD RALLY
The 15th Australian National Rally, hosted by the Model T Ford Club of Victoria, comes to Ballarat.
Public display day Wed 1 Oct near the Ballarat Greyhound Racing Club.
Info: mtfcv.com/eureka-gold-rally
SAT 18 OCT 1 – 5pm
BUNINYONG VILLAGE MARKET
Enjoy the quarterly Buninyong Village Market, with gorgeous craft, art and food stalls and much more.
Buninyong Town Hall
309 Learmonth St, Buninyong
Buninyong Village SPRING Market
BUNINYONG TOWN HALL
SATURDAY 18 OCTOBER 1pm to 5pm
Craft . Food . Art . Music facebook.com/buninyongvillagemarket
SUN 26 OCT 1pm
AFL FOOTBALL
Western Bulldogs v Geelong Cats. Tix: ticketmaster.com.au
Mars Stadium Creswick Rd, Wendouree
1 - 2 NOV
126TH LAKE GOLDSMITH
STEAM & VINTAGE RALLY
Over 65 display sheds featuring steam & oil powered engines, saw mills, motorcycles, trucks, tractors, food & refreshments and more.
Info: lakegoldsmithsteamrally.org.au
Lake Goldsmith Steam Rally
1234 Carngham-Lake Goldsmith Rd, Lake Goldsmith
7 - 9 NOV
BALLARAT SHOW
A showcase of local agriculture and produce, with competitions, exhibitions, live entertainment, rides, showbags and so much family fun.
Ballarat Showgrounds
6 Rose Hill Rd, Mount Rowan
Saturday check in • Sunday run to Scotsburn
Monday run to Dunolly • Tuesday run to Bungaree
Wednesday PUBLIC DISPLAY DAY near Ballarat Greyhound Racing Club (Sutton St & Rubicon St) 115 CARS ON DISPLAY
Thursday run to Beaufort & Aura Light Show
Friday run to Clunes & Creswick • Friday Dinner & Awards
Saturday farewell breakfast
Email: ballaratrally20t5@gmail.com Model T Ford Club of Victoria mtfcv.com/eureka-gold-rally
• Close to Ballarat CBD, Sovereign Hill & Wildlife Park
• Public Transport at our front door
• 1, 2 & 3 Bedroom Villas
• Powered & Ensuite Sites
• FREE WiFi & Foxtel • Games Room
• Camp Kitchen
• Playground & FREE Mini-Golf
• FREE Eureka Pool Next Door (Nov-Apr) Member Discounts for G'Day Park Members Dogs welcome (contact us for details)
SAT 8 NOV 8pm
LAWRENCE MOONEY
Dead Set Country is Lawrence’s brand-new hit show that’s all about a city boy gone bush. Tix: hermaj.com
Her Majesty's Theatre 17 Lydiard St Sth
SAT 15 NOV 9am – 8pm
CLUNES SHOW
A day of family fun with Scott Stunz comedy magician, music, animals, food & wine, art & craft, kids' activities, show bags, rides & more. Clunes Showgrounds 54 Victoria St, Clunes
FRI 21 NOV 7:30pm
BEN KNIGHT: THE PARENT
TEACHER INTERVIEW
Curious what teachers really think about you & your kids? Join The Parent Teacher Night—brutally honest comedy hosted by teacher Ben Knight! Tix: ballaratmi.org.au
Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute 117 Sturt St
FRI 21 NOV 7pm
BOB DOWNE: CHOOSE BOB! 40 RIDICULOUS YEARS
A high-energy comedy concert of ‘80s bangers, power ballads and mega pop classics. Tix: hermaj.com
Her Majesty's Theatre 17 Lydiard St Sth
SAT 22 NOV 7:30pm
DAVE HUGHES: WTF?
Lately, Hughesy has been saying 'WTF?' more than ever, and he’s created an entire show around it. Tix: hermaj.com
Her Majesty's Theatre 17 Lydiard St Sth
22 - 23 NOV
VICTORIAN MEDIEVAL FESTIVAL
Live jousts, sword battles, live entertainment, reenactors village, birds of prey, medieval feast & more.
Tix: kryalcastle.com.au
Kryal Castle 121 Forbes Rd, Leigh Creek
FRI 28 NOV 8pm
AKMAL
A master of unscripted comedy, Akmal has an incredible ability to deal with hot topics in an hilarious & slightly offensive way. Tix: ballaratmi.org.au
Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute 117 Sturt St
SAT 29 NOV 8pm
DANIEL MUGGLETON: YOU MAY BE WHITE, I MAY BE CRAZY
Daniel Muggleton is an Australian comedian in a tracksuit. His live shows frequently sell-out around the world. Tix: ballaratmi.org.au
Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute 117 Sturt St
SUN 30 NOV 10am - 4pm
SPRINGFEST BALLARAT
Enjoy 450+ market stalls plus family friendly activities, live music, entertainment & delicious food on the shores of Lake Wendouree. Info: ballaratspringfest.com.au
MARKETS
FIRST SATURDAY OF THE MONTH BRIDGE MALL • BALLARAT
Discover the very best fresh food and produce and buy direct from local farmers and producers. Join the slow food revolution and you’ll see why foodies only source their ingredients from local farmers markets.
THE BRIDGE MARKET
1ST SAT OF THE MONTH 9am – 1pm Bakery Hill, Ballarat
BALLARAT FARMERS MARKET
2ND & 4TH SAT OF THE MONTH 9am – 1pm Zoo Drive, Lake Wendouree (off Wendouree Pde)
BALLARAT SUNDAY MARKET
1ST SUN OF THE MONTH 9am – 1pm Morshead Park, Redan
CRESWICK MARKET
3RD SAT OF THE MONTH 9am – 1pm Victoria St, Creswick (18km from Ballarat)
SMYTHESDALE COUNTRY MARKET
3RD SAT OF THE MONTH 9am – 1pm Glenelg Hwy, Smythesdale (19km from Ballarat)
CLUNES FARMERS MARKET
2ND SUN OF THE MONTH 9am – 1pm Fraser St, Clunes (35km from Ballarat)
BALLAN FARMERS MARKET
2ND SAT OF THE MONTH 9am – 1pm Inglis St, Ballan (39km from Ballarat)
