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.
Cubby 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
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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Copper stills humming. Glasses clinking. Plates landing on tables. he easy buzz of great company filling the room. Itinerant Spirits is breathing new life into The Goods Shed next to the Ballarat Train Station with a bar you’ll want to stay awhile in, and spaces made for stories and events worth sharing. Drop in for a night out, book your next function or get hands-on with a cocktail making class or a distillery tour and tasting. info@itinerantspirits.com | 0497 552 280
RETAIL THERAPY
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.
Hattie and the Wolf
The Crafty Squirrel
A must visit when in Ballarat. The Crafty Squirrel stocks unique one-of-a-kind craft kits, vintage goodies, gorgeous haberdashery and treasures from around the world.
Open Thu – Fri 10 – 5, Sat 10 – 4. (Closed Sat 18 July).
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
Sweet Fern
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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
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
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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
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ATTRACTIONS & TOURS
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 and surrounds, 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
OR
LEARN ABOUT THE AUSSIE SCIENTIST WHO INVENTED VEGEMITE
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 experience on Cuthberts Vintage Tram. Open Tue 10am3pm, weekends & public hols. 11am - 4pm.
Wendouree Parade 5334 1580
btm.org.au
Ballarat Tramway Museum
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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
Explore the cultural impact of the gold rush and hear the stories of the men and women who risked their lives in the fight for miners' rights. Located on the site of the 1854 Eureka Stockade and home to the historic Eureka Flag . 102 Stawell Street South, Ballarat (enter next to aquatic centre) Refer to eurekacentreballarat.com.au for hours & booking info. Ph: 03 5333 0333
• 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)
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!
EXHIBITIONS EXHIBITIONS
UNTIL 13 JUN
60BC
Ballarat Arts Alive hosts a group show of works by their members alongside a selection of Castlemaine artists. Intersecting 60 artists from two of Victoria's major regional creative hubs.
Kank Wolverang Records 30 Main Rd
UNTIL 14 JUN
MICHAEL CREANEY
Ceramic artist Michael Creaney has created a series of works exploring the dynamic interplay between volume and space, emphasizing how negative space can redefine perception.
Art Space Ballarat 14 Lydiard St Nth
UNTIL 28 JUN
THE MOON BIRD SINGS
Carly Hitchcock's Japanese-inspired artwork combines contemporary illustration with traditional Eastern aesthetics, rendered primarily in shades of blue. Delicate line work, balanced composition and subtle references to nature create a calm, contemplative mood.
Kilderkin Distillery 14A Hill St, Mt Pleasant
UNTIL 17 JUL
THINKING OF PLACE IV: FLEET
A collaboration between 11 printmaking groups in a cross-cultural dialogue to create 11 vessels. The works link together via the common motif of a ship or boat, imagined, emblematic or referencing an actual vessel. Assembled, the fleet of vessels serves as a visual metaphor for diverse perspectives coming together as a cohesive unit.
Post Office Gallery Cnr Sturt & Lydiard St Nth
29 MAY - 7 JUL
TANIA BABIC: EARLY DAYS
An exhibition by Ballarat emerging sketch artist Tania Babic showcasing her detailed drawings inspired by nature, animals & human subjects. Unicorn Lane off 133 Sturt St (viewing 24/7)
29 MAY - 6 AUG
HANNAH BRONTË: POWA WAVE
Shot on the beaches of Kombumerri/ Yugambeh country, Coolangatta, POWA WAVE captures the natural beauty of an ocean sunrise as experienced by two Queer lovers. For Brontë, ‘being a woman in the surf, let alone a Queer woman, takes a sport so freeing & transcendent and makes it a radical act of defiance.'
Art Screen - Art Gallery of Ballarat Alfred Deakin Place (at rear of the Gallery)
30 MAY - 12 JUL
KATE GORMAN: SIRENS
‘Siren’ is a word found in Homer’s Odyssey to name the mythical female deities who lured seafarers into danger with their beguiling songs. Today, ‘sirens’ are an alert for urgent danger. Ballarat artist Kate Gorman draws upon both meanings of the word to express the impact of tourism, suburban growth and ‘progress’ on Victoria’s coastal landscape.
Backspace Gallery 43 Mair St
3 - 27 JUN
QUEER LENS
A celebration of creativity, identity and the power of art to challenge perceptions and inspire change. This Ballarat Pride Month exhibition aims to provide a platform for artists to delve into the multifaceted experiences and narratives that shape queer identities and communities. Opening Sat 13 Jun, 2pm.
TBH Studio 57 Bridge Mall
3 - 27 JUN
MEMENTO MORI UNLEASHED
An interactive art exhibition of images human, anatomical & floral by Savagely Queer. Colour in the works on the wall and leave your own mark on this exhibition! Opening Sat 6 Jun, 10:30am.
TBH Studio 57 Bridge Mall
6 - 28 JUN
BALLARAT DRAWERS 2026
This exhibition is part of a new annual series celebrating the depth of creative practice within our local community. Ballarat Drawers 2026 features Bren Luke, Kim Anderson, Peter Cougle, Alison Parkinson and Georgina Gould-Hardwick. Opening Sun 7 Jun, 2pm.
Ross Creek Gallery
183 Post Office Rd, Smythes Creek
6 JUN - 21 FEB
MYTH
AND
MEMORY: PRINTS FROM THE COLLECTION
Featuring prints representing the Eureka Stockade and gold rush Ballarat. These images occupy space between remembrance and interpretation, revealing a tension between the preservation of memory and the making of myth. Included in museum entry fee.
Eureka Centre Ballarat 102 Stawell St Sth
19 - 21 JUN
SOLSTICE
An ekphrastic exhibition. Soldiers Hill Artist Collective takes inspiration from the shortest night of the year to present a diverse showcase of artworks, to which a host of Central Highlands writers curated by Ballarat’s Words Out Loud have provided responses in prose and poetry. Opening Fri 19 Jun, 6pm.
North Ballarat Bowls Club 402 Gregory St
20 JUN - 18 JUL
GILLIAN SCHROETER & FAUSTIN EPEAHS: DIRTY HANDS
A photographic exhibition that turns attention to the quiet, enduring relationship between people and the land. Captured across diverse landscapes of Victoria, each image centres on hands, held within moments of contact with nature. Through intimate, grounded imagery, the exhibition traces a tactile narrative of connection, and care.
Kank Wolverang Records 30 Main Rd
27 JUN - 26 JUL
JULIA HOWE: CHRONIC
Inspired by her own lived experience with chronic illness, artist Julia Howe investigates the experiences of people with ‘hidden’ or unseen illness and disability in a bid to raise awareness and understanding with viewers.
Art Space Ballarat 14 Lydiard St Nth
JUL - SEP
ARTIST IN RESIDENCE: CAROLINE FREDERICKS
Photographer Caroline Fredericks will focus her time as Resident Artist documenting the stories of Ballarat’s unsung heroes through portrait and candid photography.
Art Hub 10 Lydiard St Nth
1 - 31 JUL
ACID GOTH: UNDERGROWTH
A multidisciplinary body of work by Georgie Stokol exploring transformation through vivid paintings and sculptures in steel and glass. Opening Sat 4 Jul, 2pm.
TBH Studio 57 Bridge Mall
4 - 26 JUL
OUTSIDE THE LINES
A group exhibition of women from Ballarat who have been artists and friends for years. All artists at some point worked at the iconic Australian artist fashion brand: Katsui. Featuring Janine Ronaldson, April Welfare, Tarli Glover, Sarah Lloyd, Maggie Dannatt and Sue Quinlan Brain. Opening Sun 5 Jul, 2pm.
Ross Creek Gallery
183 Post Office Rd, Smythes Creek
5 JUL - 25 OCT
SEASONS IN BALLARAT
An eclectic mix of art from current members of the Ballarat Society of Artists. Open Sundays 10am - 3pm.
Lake Wendouree Museum 27 Wendouree Pde
10 - 12 JUL
HIDDEN
ART on ALBERT GALLERY
A not-for-profit Gallery in Creswick, run by volunteers, to provide varied spaces for local and regional artists to exhibit and sell their work.
86 ALBERT ST CRESWICK Thur – Mon 10am to 4pm
Contact & expressions of interest
artonalbert86@gmail.com
Follow us on Facebook Art on Albert
A 3-day microfestival of inflatable art, hidden in Ballarat's Civic Hall. Six local artists. Air, colour and imagination. Slow down. Step inside. Info & tix: creativeballarat.com.au/hidden-26 Civic Hall 300 Mair St
10 JUL - 19 AUG
ARTHUR CREATIVE GROUP SHOW
A group show that will showcase the many different mediums and creative approaches of Ballarat’s Arthur Creative artists. Unicorn Lane off 133 Sturt St (viewing 24/7)
18 JUL - 30 AUG
JOANNE LINSDELL: MY SHADOW BOARD
Joanne Linsdell grew up on a fruit orchard near Bacchus Marsh. When she returned to the property in 2019, she found inspiration in her late father’s cherished workshop. She closely observed the familiar and everyday items of her father’s working life—including various hand tools and the ‘shadow boards’ they were stored on—and transformed them into fine ceramic
objects. Through an interplay of grief and joy, My Shadow Board celebrates the lifelong value of hands-on making and shared knowledge. Backspace Gallery 43 Mair St
18 - 19 JUL
CRESWICK ARTS TRAIL
Explore artist studios around the Creswick area - start from the Creswick Town Hall where you can pick up a map. Local artists and artisans will also have stalls with works for sale at the Town Hall. Open 10am - 4pm. Creswick Town Hall 70 Albert St, Creswick
31 JUL - 28 AUG
BENCHMARK26
Federation University’s Arts Academy’s important annual exhibition presents new work by undergraduate Visual Arts students. Showcasing a rich mix of media, ideas, themes, styles and concepts, this exhibition provides the unique opportunity for students to exhibit their work alongside their peers in a formally curated exhibition and professional gallery setting, as well as experience the challenge of presenting their work within the public realm.
Post Office Gallery Cnr Sturt & Lydiard St Nth
1 - 23 AUG
TAHLIA ROBERTS: YOU'LL GET FLOWERS ONCE YOU'RE DEAD
This series stems from a memory of emotional neglect, where gestures of care were withheld and only promised in suffering or death. Flowers become symbols of absence, reflecting how unmet needs can erode self-worth. The work questions why value is so often recognised only in absence, exploring themes of worthiness, visibility & the desire to be seen in the present.
Old Butchers Shop Gallery 112 Seymour St
1 - 29 AUG
PATRICK DUFFY: RIPPED, TORN & CUT
An exhibition in cardboard of art looking at you looking at art. Duffy’s solo exhibition of recycled cardboard busts turns the act of viewing into a quiet confrontation. Each sculpture, rough-edged yet meticulously shaped, depicts anonymous faces that seem to watch the audience as closely as they are being observed.
Kank Wolverang Records 30 Main Rd
2 - 30 AUG
INFUSE ART PRIZE 2026
Bringing together artists from across the region and beyond, the exhibition highlights works born from shared ideas, conversations, and creative exchange. Visitors are invited to experience a diverse range of contemporary artworks and to discover the finalists and prize-winning pieces that exemplify innovation, dialogue, and artistic growth.
Ross Creek Gallery
183 Post Office Rd, Smythes Creek
5 - 29 AUG
JUST ART
No theme. No limits. This is an open space for artists to share what they truly want to make, without the pressure of fitting into a brief.
Opening Sat 8 Aug, 2pm.
TBH Studio 57 Bridge Mall
7 AUG - 22 OCT
SHAUN GLADWELL: WOOLLOOMOOLOO
NIGHT
Filmed at a petrol station in Sydney’s central suburb of Woolloomooloo, Gladwell captures in sublime slow-motion a barefooted dancer, Emma Magenta, as she demonstrates her
capoeira moves. Gladwell’s signature slowmotion studies of urban street culture have become recognised visual mediations between the streets and fine art
Art Screen - Art Gallery of Ballarat
Alfred Deakin Place (at rear of the Gallery)
8 AUG - 6 SEP
NINA HASSALL: EIDOLONS
An exhibition of large oil paintings exploring dreams and perception in relation to place and time. These works are accompanied by smaller preliminary sketches, sculptures and writing that informed the final works.
Art Space Ballarat 14 Lydiard St Nth
8 AUG - 20 SEP
WORLD PRESS PHOTO
For the first time the Art Gallery of Ballarat will host the World Press Photo. Each year, the contest highlights the outstanding work of photojournalists and documentary photographers from across the globe. The exhibition offers broad perspectives and intimate insider views on issues such as the farreaching impact of the climate crisis, while also highlighting civic action and the fight for rights through images of protests in the US, women’s movements in Guatemala and youth protests in Madagascar.
The Mining Exchange 12 Lydiard St Nth
Chantal Pinzi
Farīsāt: Gunpowder’s Daughters (detail) World Press Photo
LIVE MUSIC LIVE MUSIC
Check websites & social media of venues for more shows & updates over the Winter period.
CIVIC HALL
300 Mair St • 5333 5888 • hermaj.com
SUN 7 JUN 8pm Dry Cleaning
FRI 7 AUG 8pm Tania Kernaghan & Jason Owen
SAT 8 AUG 7:30pm The Living End
HER MAJESTY'S THEATRE
17 Lydiard St Sth • 5333 5888 • hermaj.com
FRI 26 JUN 7:30pm Vika & Linda
SUN 28 JUN 6pm K-Pop Live!
FRI 10 JUL 7pm Melbourne Chamber Orchestra: Under the Canopy
SAT 1 AUG 7:30pm The Nervous Atmosphere
KANK WOLVERANG RECORDS
30 Main Rd, Bakery Hill
SUN 7 JUN 2pm Mick Dog
SUN 5 JUL 2pm The Neutron Flow
SAT 11 JUL 2pm Qu1nnix
SAT 18 JUL 2pm Solstice
SUN 2 AUG 2pm Faith & Gasoline
SAT 15 AUG 2pm Maddy Rolls
SUN 16 AUG 2pm Atticus
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
FRI 19 JUN 7pm The Countdown Years
FRI 26 JUN 7pm Sydney's Hot Shots
FRI 10 JUL 7pm Totally Stonez
FRI 17 JUL 7pm Starman - The David Bowie Tribute Show
FRI 31 JUL 7pm Spice Up Your Night
FRI 7 AUG 7pm Fleetwood Max
FRI 14 AUG 7pm Live Aid Revival
SAT 15 AUG 1pm Women in Blues showcase
FRI 21 AUG 7pm Aussie DC
FRI 28 AUG 7pm The Oh! Down Country Show
HOP TEMPLE
Rear of 24-28 Armstrong St Nth 6155 2216 • hoptemple.com.au
SUN 7 JUN 1:30pm Tommy McEwan
SAT 13 JUN 9pm Untapped
SUN 14 JUN 1:30pm Iseula
SAT 20 JUN 9pm Bec & Marty
SUN 21 JUN 1:30pm Gravy Train
SAT 27 JUN 9pm Retro Revival
SUN 28 JUN 1:30pm Shane Gilbert
SUN 5 JUL 1:30pm Rhyley McGrath
SAT 11 JUL 9pm Retro Revival
SAT 18 JUL 9pm Bec & Marty
SUN 26 JUL 1:30pm Midnight Drive
SAT 8 AUG 9pm Retro Revival
SAT 29 AUG 9pm Bec & Marty
VOLTA
15 Field St • voltaballarat.com.au
FRI 5 JUN 9pm Don't Stop Till You Get Enough: A Night Of Michael Jackson
SAT 13 JUN 7:30pm C.O.F.F.I.N
SAT 27 JUN 9pm The Spuds
FRI 3 JUL 7:30pm Every Breath You TakeA Tribute To The Police
THU 16 JUL 7pm Nirvanna (USA)Tribute To Nirvana
FRI 17 JUL 7:30pm Alex Lloyd
SAT 18 JUL 7pm Second Hand News - Tribute to Fleetwood Mac
SAT 25 JUL 8pm Shout at the DevilThe Australian Motley Crue Show
SAT 1 AUG 7:30pm Pierce Brothers
FRI 7 AUG 7:30pm Khan
SAT 8 AUG 8pm Alex Mather
SAT 15 AUG 7:30pm The Yatchski Brothers
SUN 16 AUG 7pm Hate Complex
SAT 22 AUG 7pm GAYC/DC (USA)
BALLAARAT
MECHANICS’ INSTITUTE
117 Sturt St • 5331 3042 • ballaratmi.org.au
FRI 3 JUL 8pm Joscho Stephan Trio
SAT 4 JUL 10am Whistle & Trick
TUE 14 JUL 7:30pm Grigoryan Brothers - live soundtrack to film A Boy Called Sailboat
BALLARAT PERFORMING
ARTS CENTRE
501 – 503 Neill St, Soldiers Hill bpacballarat.org
SAT 20 JUN 2pm Homophonic! - RESPECT
FRI 26 JUN 8pm The Music & Memories of Carole King, Carly Simon & James Taylor
SUN 2 AUG 2pm I Am Woman - Judith Durham, Olivia Newton-John & Helen Reddy tribute
SAT 15 AUG 7:30pm Moonwalker - Michael Jackson HIStory
SUN 16 AUG 3pm BALLARAT BLUES FEST
Joe Camilleri & the Wilbur Wilde Rock Royalty Revue, Dave Hole, Geoff Achsion, Nina Ferro, Jimi Hocking with John McNamara, Andrea Marr, Brett Garsed, Sammy Owen, Angus Burchall, James Black, Craig Newman, Shane Gilbert & more. (see page 5)
SAT 29 AUG 3pm Rhinestone Cowboy - John Denver & Glen Campbell tribute
ODESSA AT LEAVER'S HOTEL
80 Albert Street, Creswick • 0428 694 258 facebook.com/OdessaAtLeaversHotel
SUN 14 JUN 7:30pm Dylan Wright
WED 22 JUL 7pm Alex Lloyd
THU 23 JUL 7pm Alex Lloyd
FRI 21 AUG 8pm Dead Salesmen Duo
SAT 22 AUG 6pm Grigoryan Brothers
CHISHOLM ST.
Black Hill, Ballarat • chisholmst.com
SAT 25 JUL 6pm Robbie Melville's Secret Trio
SUN 30 AUG 2pm Young Pianists of Royal South Street Eisteddfod
KILDERKIN DISTILLERY
14A Hill St, Mt Pleasant • 0424 791 790 kilderkindistillery.com.au
SUN 7 JUN 3pm Karlo Arcinue
FRI 19 JUN 7:30pm Michael Waugh
SUN 28 JUN 3pm Steve Thew
THE GOODS SHED
Terminus Theatre • 200 Lydiard St Nth thegoodsshedballarat.com.au
SAT 4 JUL 7:30pm BABBA - ABBA tribute show
STAGE STAGE
SAT 6 JUN 5:30pm
QUEER BLAK+ DEADLY GALA WITH STEVEN OLIVER
A cabaret-style evening of celebration, connection and performance, featuring some of the most talented Queer First Nations artists on stage, with legendary guest host Steven Oliver. Tix: ballaratmi.org.au
Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute 117 Sturt St
13 JUN - 30 OCT
ROYAL SOUTH STREET SOCIETY BALLARAT EISTEDDFOD
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 & program: royalsouthstreet.com.au
18 - 21 JUN
THE DOLL TRILOGY
Ray Lawler’s The Doll Trilogy charts the transformation of a nation through the intimate lives of Roo, Barney, Olive, Nancy and those around them. From the playful romance of Kid Stakes in 1937, through the war-shadowed years of Other Times, to the shattering finale of Summer of the Seventeenth Doll in 1953, these characters embody idealism, disappointment, and resilience against the backdrop of a rapidly changing Australia. See any single play, or the complete trilogy performed back-to-back in a single day. Tix: hermaj.com
Her Majesty’s Theatre 17 Lydiard St Sth
TUE 30 JUN 3pm
MR SNOTBOTTOM VS THE ZOMBIE BOOGERS
Can fringe favourite Mr Snotbottom stop an army of barbaric boogies and monster mucus from suffocating the planet with foul phlegm?! Explore the science of snot, excite in ewwwy,
gooey experiments and giggle at grosstastic gags in this hilariously silly, slimy sci-fi perfect for kids ages 6 and up! Tix: bpacballarat.org
BPAC 501 – 503 Neill St, Soldiers Hill
WED 8 JUL 10am
ROBOT SONG
When 11-year-old Juniper May receives a petition signed by her entire class stating that she is ‘the most hated person in the school’ her life is thrown into complete turmoil. Juniper stops eating, she refuses to return to school, and her parents become increasingly desperate. Finally, her parents resort to the only thing they have left, a giant singing robot. Tix: hermaj.com
Her Majesty’s Theatre 17 Lydiard St Sth
FRI 10 JUL 2pm
WURRTOO: THE
WOMBAT WHO FELL IN LOVE WITH THE SKY
Bringing together classical music & storytelling through a uniquely Australian lens, a quintet of MCO string players will present a musical retelling of Tylissa Elisara’s charming story of Wurrtoo the wombat on his daring quest to marry the sky. Tix: hermaj.com
Her Majesty’s Theatre 17 Lydiard St Sth
SAT 11 JUL 7pm
21 HEARTS
Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner Brooke. A compelling true story from WWII, honouring the bravery, strength, love and hope of Australian Army Nurses in the face of adversity. 21 Hearts is a celebration of the human spirit and an uplifting, inspiring story which reminds us of the great futility of war. Tix: ballaratmi.org.au
Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute 117 Sturt St
15 - 16 JUL
BLUEY'S BIG PLAY
When Dad feels like a little bit of afternoon time out, Bluey & Bingo have other plans! Join them as they pull out all of the games and cleverness at their disposal to get Dad off that bean bag. Join the Heelers in their first live theatre show made just for you. Featuring brilliantly created puppets, this is Bluey as you’ve never seen it before, brought to real life. Tix: hermaj.com
Her Majesty’s Theatre 17 Lydiard St Sth
WED 22 JUL 7:30pm
COSENTINO: TRICKED
This isn’t just a magic show, it’s an immersive theatre experience where the line between reality and fantasy are blurred. Be captivated by breathtaking grand stage illusions, mindboggling close-up wonders and heart stopping escapes that will leave you mesmerised to the last jaw-dropping moment. Tix: hermaj.com
Her Majesty’s Theatre 17 Lydiard St Sth 23 - 26 JUL
GOD OF CARNAGE
Presented by Ballarat National Theatre. A playground scuffle brings two sets of parents together for a cordial meeting - but civility quickly unravels. What begins with espresso and diplomacy ends in chaos, as facades crack and tensions explode. This sharp, fast-paced satire takes a hilariously uncomfortable look at modern parenting, social pretence, and the thin line between order and anarchy. Tix: bnt.org.au Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute 117 Sturt St
SAT 25 JUL 1:30 and 7:30pm THE NUTCRACKER ACT II AND OTHER WORKS
The Australian Ballet is hitting the road with a spectacular program that weaves together timeless classics, beloved signature works and
daring contemporary creations. In partnership with The Australian Ballet School, these extraordinary dancers will light up Ballarat with highlights from an extensive repertoire, including the magical Act II of The Nutcracker, bringing a touch of festive joy to the stage. Tix: hermaj.com
Her Majesty’s Theatre 17 Lydiard St Sth
SAT 8 AUG 7:30pm
HEARTBREAK HOTEL
Story, science and a synth combine in an exhilarating performance that examines what happens in our bodies when we’ve had our heart broken. From acclaimed New Zealand company EBKM, Heartbreak Hotel tracks a woman’s broken heart in a wrenching and relatable journey that's studded with classic break-up songs and razor-sharp observations on the physiology of love. Tix: hermaj.com
Her Majesty’s Theatre 17 Lydiard St Sth 20 - 23 AUG
YOU CAN’T TELL ANYONE
Presented by Ballarat National Theatre. A philosophical thriller that examines the transition from adolescence to adulthood. Thanks to a game of Paranoia, this group of teens will never be the same again. No one is safe, not even the audience. Tix: bnt.org.au Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute 117 Sturt St
FRI 21 AUG 1pm and 7pm
GRIMM: TALES BY THE BROTHERS GRIMM
Happily, ever after? Never. GRIMM, the latest tour de force from Shake & Stir Theatre Co beckons you into a world where fairytales are reimagined with a profound intensity. Be warned – these bedtime stories may cause nightmares… Tix: hermaj.com
Her Majesty’s Theatre 17 Lydiard St Sth
SAT 22 AUG 4pm
UNWOMAN (THE PROTEST)
A live performance event celebrating the multitude of experiences around birth, in/ fertility and pregnancy. Participants will take the stage to share their testimony as an act of courage, rebellion and empowerment. Sign up to deliver your own testimony or come along to witness this special event. Free entry, but bookings essential. Tix: hermaj.com
Her Majesty’s Theatre 17 Lydiard St Sth
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
1 - 30 JUN
BALLARAT PRIDE MONTH
A celebration of LGBTIQA+ people with exhibitions, workshops, films, performances, online events, social groups and much more!
Info: ballaratpride.au
FRI 5 JUN, 3 JUL, 7 AUG 8pm
BALLARATCAT COMEDY
Big laughs & great atmosphere.
Jun: Richard Stubbs. Jul: Takashi Wakasugi. Aug: Tuck Shop Ladies.
Tix: bpacballarat.org
BPAC 501 – 503 Neill St, Soldiers Hill
SAT 6 JUN 7:30pm
LUKE KIDGELL
You’ve seen him on the internet, now it’s time to see him in real life.
Tix: hermaj.com
Civic Hall 300 Mair St
THU 18 JUN 7:30pm
LUKE HEGGIE
This show is a compilation of bits, lovingly curated from the last 5 years.
Tix: bpacballarat.org
BPAC 501 – 503 Neill St, Soldiers Hill
FRI 19 JUN 8pm
ROSS NOBLE
He's the Wizard of Waffle, The Rambler Royale, The Noodlers’ Noodler and he’s back to tour a tornado of tangents. Tix: hermaj.com
Civic Hall 300 Mair St
BUNINYONG FILM FESTIVAL
Join us for a fantastic global selection of award winning films! Tix: buninyongfilmfestival.com.au
Buninyong Town Hall 309 Learmonth St, Buninyong
SAT 20 JUN 11am & 4pm sessions
OBSIDIAN DARK
BEER FESTIVAL
14 independent Victorian craft breweries, more than 30 dark beers to sample, food & entertainment . Tix: hullabalooevents.com.au
The Mining Exchange 12 Lydiard St Nth
THU 25 JUN 7:30pm
AARON GOCS
Known for his viral cricket moment, TV appearances and unique Aussie humour. Tix: voltaballarat.com.au
Volta 15 Field St issuu.com/bestofballarat
COMEDY
26 JUN - 19 JUL
WINTER WONDERLIGHTS
As night falls, Sovereign Hill comes alive with stunning light projections, music, wintry treats & a magical winter glow. Tix: sovereignhill.com.au
Sovereign Hill
Bradshaw St, Golden Point
27 - 28 JUN
DESIGN EXCHANGE MARKET
Bringing together small businesses, hand makers, ethical traders and innovative creators to discover.
The Mining Exchange 12 Lydiard St Nth
27 JUN - 19 JUL
BALLARAT WINTER FESTIVAL
A diverse program that includes an ice-skating rink, hot chocolate trail, captivating light displays, immersive theatrical experiences, a showcase of local designers and much more!
Info: ballaratwinterfestival.com.au
SAT 27 JUN 7:30pm
BRON LEWIS
If you’ve ever thought ‘If one thing goes wrong, we’re all dead meat’ or ‘What the hell was I thinking?’ then this is the comedy show for you.
Tix: hermaj.com
MELANIE BRACEWELL
Her Majesty's Theatre 17 Lydiard St Sth
SAT 27 JUN 7:30pm
NICK CAPPER
Nick Capper returns to the stage with his unhinged existential spiral, Broke, Useless & Sterile. Tix: bpacballarat.org
BPAC 501 – 503 Neill St, Soldiers Hill
THU 2 JUL 7pm
LIFTING THE LID
An evening of personal stories across the generations, bringing people together. Produced by Lynden Nicholls. No bookings but be early.
The Crypt 14 Camp St
FRI 3 JUL 7pm
RAY O’LEARY
'A very strong comic indeed' — Chortle **** 'A jokesmith of the highest order' — The Skinny ****
Tix: hermaj.com
Her Majesty's Theatre 17 Lydiard St Sth
Melanie Bracewell is back with a brand-new hour about returning to unfinished things later in life.
Tix: hermaj.com
Civic Hall 300 Mair St
SAT 1 AUG 7pm
NAZEEM HUSSAIN
Expect wild stories, unhinged characters and still no sign of a filter.
Tix: hermaj.com
Civic Hall 300 Mair St
1 - 2 AUG
POCO FILM FEST
Watch up to 15 of Australia's best short films for one night only, plus industry talks from some of the best Australian talent.
Info & tix: pocofilmfest.com.au
FRI 7 AUG 7:30pm
BLAKE PAVEY
After finding out his terminal illness isn’t all that terminal anymore, he’s got a lot more time to think
of everything he’s scared of.
Tix: ballaratmi.org.au
Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute 117 Sturt St
15 - 16 AUG
BALLARAT BLUES FESTIVAL
A massive line up featuring showcase sets and a show stopping All Star Jam. Join the celebration and feel the power of the blues!
Info & tix: ballaratbluesfestival.com
FRI 21 AUG 8pm
NICK CODY
Nick Cody is back where he belongs, saying hilarious/distasteful things on stage. Tix: bpacballarat.org
BPAC 501 – 503 Neill St, Soldiers Hill
SAT 22 AUG 7pm
JOE AVATI
Let him take you on a trip down memory lane & reminisce about the ‘Good Old Days’.
Tix: bpacballarat.org
BPAC 501 – 503 Neill St, Soldiers Hill
MEDITATION & BUDDHISM Weekly Classes
• Wed | 7-8pm | $12
• No booking required
• Ballarat Mechanics Institute, 117 Sturt St meditate in ballarat .org
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 Ballarat Showgrounds, Rose Hill Rd Mt Rowan
BUNINYONG VILLAGE MARKET
SAT 29 AUG 1 – 5pm
Buninyong Town Hall Precinct (10km from Ballarat)
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 Brooke St, 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)
DAYLESFORD SUNDAY MARKET
SUNDAYS 8am – 3pm
18 Raglan St, Daylesford (45km from Ballarat)
BEAUFORT TOWN MARKET
FRI 17 JUL 5 – 9pm Beaufort Memorial Rose Garden (49km from Ballarat)
TALBOT FARMERS MARKET
3RD SUN OF THE MONTH 9am – 1pm Scandinavian Cres, Talbot (52km from Ballarat)
When the sun sets, the magic begins. Sovereign Hill lights up in a dazzling spectacle of colour, faux snow, and a warm wintry glow.
