Grace Barbé will perform at CRESFEST 4 - 6 April. Visit cresfest.com.au for program details. Pic: Tracy Catherine Frawley
Publisher: Paper Crow
Hill VIC 3354
Editors: Scott Bain & Libby Drew info@bestofballarat.com.au
Printer: Sovereign Press Ballarat
© BEST of Ballarat, your independent pocket guide to discover the best of Ballarat each month. All rights reserved including advertising, editorial and maps. No part of this publication can be reproduced in any form without the written consent of the publisher. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this guide, neither the publisher or producers can be held responsible for errors, changes or omissions to the information included. All information was correct at the time of publication. Advertising content is the responsibility of individual advertisers and not the guide’s publishers or producers.
EvEryonE’s favouritE rEgional fEstival Will sEll out - only 2000 tickEts!
16 intimatE vEnuEs small toWn vibE school holiday family fun dancing in thE strEEts acts from australia and around thE World including: JoE gEia thE maEs nEil murray apollinE grassy strings (india) gracE barbE afro-krEol (sEychEllEs) and so much morE f ull d E tails at cr Esf Est.com.au day tickEts, WEEkEnd passEs & camping on salE noW!
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.
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
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
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.
Midtown Cellars and Bar is Ballarat’s premier go-to for craft beer and wine. With six rotating taps — and a choice of over 150 beers and a wall of wine to either drink in or takeaway — there’s something to please everyone, every day of the week.
Explore our award-winning gins and liqueurs. Enjoy a gin flight, gin drinks, local beer and cider, along with light food options. A pleasant walk or 5-minute drive from the CBD with easy parking. For bookings call 0423 000 166.
Open: Thurs 12 to 5 Fri & Sat 12 to 7, Sun 12 to 5 14A Hill St, Mount Pleasant
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
A one-of-a-kind saloon-style cocktail bar bringing back the glitz and glamour of the city’s goldrush era.
With an Asian style food menu to share (03) 5303 0733 | info@grainerylane.com.au 35 Armstrong St N, Ballarat Central VIC 3350 www.grainerylane.com.au
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.
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 10 - 30 April).
Cnr Errard & Urquhart Sts 5331 4548 thecraftysquirrel.com.au
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 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
Specialising in Goldwork and Stumpwork embroidery and carrying a large range of specialty threads, beads, fabrics, kits, accessories and books – we have your needs catered for! Open by appointment only.
32 Silverwattle Dr, Invermay 5333 1476 alisoncoleembroidery.com.au
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
Raintree Art
Open Monday to Saturday 10 - 4 or by
Ross Creek Gallery showcases pottery by Ruby Pilven alongside monthly exhibitions spotlighting diverse contemporary 2D and 3D artists. Open Fri, Sat, Sun 11am - 4pm. Only 15 mins from Ballarat CBD.
183 Post Office Rd Smythes Creek 0430 886 428 rubypilven.com
4th Saturday Month 22 March 26 April 24 May
10am to 3pm
Outdoor + Indoor Stalls
408 Warrenheip Street & Buninyong Community House
www.bceinc.com.au/buninyong-makers-market
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 only Komodo Dragons, Tassie devils, snakes, penguins, our Siberian/Sumatran tigers and much more...
OPEN 7 DAYS 9am - 5pm
of times past.
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
Ballarat's New Tramway Museum is now open! See trams between 100 and 135 years old that ran in Ballarat, Melbourne and Geelong, plus other pieces of tramway equipment and memorabilia. Tue 10am3pm, weekends & public hols. 11am - 4pm. Wendouree Parade 5334 1580 btm.org.au
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)
HOLIDAY PARK
Stay with us in the heart of the historic Eureka Stockade precinct 104 Stawell St Sth, Ballarat 03 5331 2281 eurekaholidaypark.com.au
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.
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!
FEB - APR
Discover the practice and artworks of Natalie, who is passionate about exploring different mediums including ceramics, embroidery and watercolour, and inspired by wildlife conservation. Open Thursday - Sunday.
Art Hub 10 Lydiard St Nth
UNTIL 9 MAR
What compels us to reach for the untouchable, to pursue the forbidden, for better or worse? Artist Emily explores the allure of the unattainable through over 30 original pen and ink illustrations. Step into a world of intricate linework and storytelling, where the beauty of striving—and its consequences—come to life.
Art Space Ballarat 14 Lydiard St Nth
UNTIL 14 MAR
Federation University’s Cultural Collection includes the Historical Collection, alongside the Art Collection of over 2000 works featuring many renowned Australian artists, as well as the work of staff and students associated with Fed Uni and its predecessor institutions. This exhibition celebrates significant Australian artists' work that traces unseen relationships and draws on diverse lived experiences while responding to a myriad subjects and ideas.
Post Office Gallery Cnr Sturt & Lydiard St Nth
UNTIL 15 MAR
PEN, PAINT & INK: A VISION ENSEMBLE
A group exhibition by three friends - Andrew Sutherland, Melinda Williams and Daria Betley, encompassing their most recent visual artwork.
Kank Wolverang Records 30 Main Rd
UNTIL 16 MAR
Take a journey to Australia’s iconic “Big Things” using AI. This poetic road trip blends the surreal with the hyperreal. It’s a playful adventure through the Australian landscape, offering a joyous experience for the whole family!
ArtHouse at RACV Goldfields Resort 1500 Midland Hwy, Creswick
UNTIL 17 MAR
FUREA: FANTASY LIFE
Explore Furea’s fantastical worlds and adventurous characters. Step inside each scene and learn more about their stories.
Unicorn Lane off 133 Sturt St (viewing 24/7)
UNTIL 31 MAR
Presented to coincide with Ballarat’s Begonia Festival, Jenna Lee’s gwoyarr-ma pays tribute to another introduced plant to the Australian landscape, the lotus, and reflects upon its significance to First Nations communities.
Art Screen - Art Gallery of Ballarat Alfred Deakin Place (at rear of the Gallery)
1 MAR - 6 APR
A collective response by Ballarat artists to look beyond the obvious. By displaying a collective of artists from varied backgrounds & practices, this exhibition seeks to make visible what is typically out of sight, reflecting on the small, unobserved details of life and the beauty that lies within them. Opening Sat 1 Mar, 4pm.
Kyneton Ridge Artspace 517 Blackhill Rd, Kyneton
Jenna Lee gwoyarr-ma
Nostalgia includes drawings of objects like typewriters, the iconic Nokia phone & cassette tapes—memories from different decades. Michel believes nostalgia sparks happy memories and connects people, with each object in her collection holding a story: "In a room full of people, we’ll find a common story about a toy or gadget." Opening Sat 8 Mar, 1pm.
Ross Creek Gallery
183 Post Office Rd, Smythes Creek
Ellen presents multidimensional papercut lightboxes that tell the story of the artist's life and work. Sørensen's first solo exhibition explores her personal frameworks of home, while paying tribute to the range of creative communities and networks that give her life meaning. Opening Sat 8 Mar, 2pm.
Old Butchers Shop Gallery 112 Seymour St
MAR
An exhibition of rare playbills collection from the Theatre Royal, a grand gold rush era theatre that operated in Ballarat from 1858 to 1877.
Included in museum entry fee.
Eureka Centre Ballarat 102 Stawell St Sth
15 MAR - 13 APR
Botanical illustrations highlighting the intricate details, patterns and vibrant colours of our Australian flora and fauna.
Art Space Ballarat 14 Lydiard St Nth
15 MAR - 15 JUN
Next Gen 2025 showcases some of the best of the work created by students from schools from Ballarat and the South Western Victorian region in 2024. This annual showcase of VCE artworks gives Gallery visitors insights into the world of young people today by showing extraordinary works which reveal their vision, ideas and skills.
Backspace Gallery 43 Mair St
20 MAR - 27 APR
Find a little piece of magic in the child-like wonder of these one-of-a-kind collages. Designed to reflect the special interests of the artist's loved ones, these vivid paper worlds celebrate the niche nerdery of Autistic people. Unicorn Lane off 133 Sturt St (viewing 24/7)
22 MAR - 1 JUN
Inspired by Creswick artist Victor Litherland’s practice of setting up his easel on the streets of Creswick and painting the buildings, trees and people of the town. Visitors were invited to pick up pencils and partial views of Creswick and complete their own sketch of Creswick.
ArtHouse at RACV Goldfields Resort 1500 Midland Hwy, Creswick
Launch: Fri 11 April 6:30pm
Percy's new paintings, photographs, videos and digital works focus on the nexus of creativity and academic research through the lens of dyslexic thinking. A unique body of work, that illuminates the real and lived experience of dyslexia, Percy also expresses the personal challenge of late diagnosis and its impact on artistic expression, while offering new ways to consider and understand cognitive difference. Post Office Gallery
Cnr Sturt & Lydiard St Nth
5 - 27 APR
Four artists — Bill Davies, Peter Drakeford, Lisa Nolan & Monty Osewald — present four vastly different drawing styles. Each artist pivots toward a resurgence of enthusiasm for the practice and playful experimentation in figure drawing, which encompasses new and innovative methods of expression & materials. Old Butchers Shop Gallery 112 Seymour St
The 10th SHAC Artwalk 2025 marks a decade of the Soldiers Hill Artist Collective! A variety of Soldiers Hill businesses, schools and artist studios will showcase SHAC artworks. Official launch on Fri 11 Apr, 6:30pm at Ballarat North Bowling Club will kick off the celebrations!
Info: shacballarat.org.au
A variety of local artists offer a glimpse into the creative world of painters, sculptors, musicians, printers, photographers and much more, from across the area. A weekend to explore the rich cultural area of Golden Plains and the venues where artists will be working and exhibiting.
Info: gpartsinc.com.au
Featuring the latest works by the Goldfields Printmakers. This collective of artists meets several times each year to collaborate, exhibit and share techniques. The Goldfields Printmakers was founded by Jimmy Pasakos, who aimed to create a platform for printmakers in the historic Goldfields region to connect and collaborate. Opening Sat 12 Apr, 1pm.
Ross Creek Gallery 183 Post Office Rd, Smythes Creek
18 - 21 APR
The annual exhibition of the Ballarat Society Artists Inc. showcasing local artists. All artworks for sale. Free entry. Opening Fri 18 Apr, 2pm.
Robert Clark Centre
19 APR - 17 MAY
Noun (from the Old French verb trier, meaning to separate, sort, shift, or select). 1. sorting of patients (as in an emergency room) according to urgency. 2. assigning of priority order to projects on the basis of where resources can be best used. An unusual assortment of original non-traditional art works in a variety of media by three Ballarat-based contemporary artists. Opening Sat 19 Apr, 5pm.
Kank Wolverang Records
30 APR - 11 JUN
A collection of mixed media works that invites viewers to reconsider their perception of rebellion and the many forms it takes.
Unicorn Lane off 133 Sturt St (viewing 24/7)
3 - 18 MAY
Embracing nature's scorching heat & winter's cold mist, light glistens with jeweled gems. From this, with awareness of place and remembrance, observations with nature suggest that new forms and glazes stand quietly with old friends. Opening Sat 3 May, 1pm.
Ross Creek Gallery
183 Post Office Rd, Smythes Creek
3 - 25 MAY
A reflection on Ballarat's architectural heritage and its future. Architect Mick Moloney and artist Qun Zhang focus on the humble home, crafting narratives in miniature that explore their histories and stories. It envisions untold stories and investigates how these homes could be adapted to celebrate both traditional and contemporary craftsmanship in design while fostering a more sustainable future.
Old Butchers Shop Gallery 112 Seymour St
FREE ENTRY ART FOR SALE
ROBERT CLARK CENTRE
Ballarat Botanical Gardens
18 – 21 April 10am - 4pm
Official Opening Fri 18 April 2pm ballaratartists.asn.au
A retrospective celebrating the life & work of the late Peter Pilven, master potter. This exhibition is a tribute to his enduring spirit & extraordinary talent, showcasing his incredible skill, creativity & lifelong commitment to the craft. Many works will be available for purchase, with all proceeds going to charity and supporting his beloved grandchildren. Opening Sat 24 May, 1pm.
Ross Creek Gallery 183 Post Office Rd, Smythes Creek
25 MAY - 21 JUN
A poetic vision in collage. My art is about playing with words from the headlines of magazines & newspapers. It's an absurd mixture of the real and imaginary, the conscious and unconscious, the coherence and incoherence of our time. It's the way of acting, seeing, expressing and understanding the universe in which we live.
Kank Wolverang Records 30 Main Rd
Check websites & social media of venues for more shows & updates over the Autumn period.
CRESFEST
Creswick • cresfest.com.au
4 - 6 APR Joe Geia, The Maes, Neil Murray, Apolline, Grassy Strings (India), Grace Barbé Afro-Kreol (Seychelles) + much more.
HER MAJESTY'S THEATRE
17 Lydiard St Sth • 5333 5888 • hermaj.com
FRI 21 MAR 7:30pm Melbourne Symphony Orchestra - James Ehnes
SAT 22 MAR 6:30pm Sarah Blasko
THU 27 MAR 7:30pm Shake Rattle 'n' Roll
FRI 4 APR 7:30pm Vic Opera -Mansfield Park
SAT 5 APR 2pm Vic Opera - Mansfield Park
SAT 24 MAY 7:30pm Vandemonian Lags
CIVIC HALL
300 Mair St • 5333 5888 • hermaj.com
THU 27 MAR 7:30pm Ziggy Alberts
FRI 2 MAY 8pm The Kings of Country Rock
SAT 10 MAY 7:30pm Fanning Dempsey National Park
WENDOUREE CENTRE
FOR PERFORMING ARTS
1220 Howitt St • 5338 0980 • wcpa.com.au
SAT 15 MAR 7:30pm Anthony Callea & Tim Campbell - Songs of Elton & George
FRI 21 MAR 8pm Bjorn Again
FRI 4 APR 8pm 7th Wonder - Fleetwood Mac
SUN 6 APR 2:30pm The Roy Orbison Story
FRI 11 APR 8pm A Whole Lotta Shakin'
SAT 12 APR 8pm Ben Thompson Live as Elvis
FRI 2 MAY 7:30pm Man! I Feel Like a Woman
SAT 10 MAY 7:30pm James Reyne Duo
PIANO BAR BALLARAT
31 Sturt St • 5229 4086 pianobarballarat.com.au
FRI & SAT NIGHTS 7pm Piano Bar by Request
THU NIGHTS 6pm Drag Bingo
SUN 30 MAR 1pm It's Elton John & The Divas
Rear of 24-28 Armstrong St Nth • 5317 7158 hoptemple.com.au
WED NIGHTS 7:30pm 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 1 MAR 9pm Bec & Marty
SUN 2 MAR 1:30pm Mick Trembath
SAT 8 MAR 9pm Travis McCarthy
SUN 9 MAR 1:30pm Charlie Bedford
SAT 15 MAR 6:30pm Bec & Marty
SUN 16 MAR 1:30pm Dean Haitani
SAT 22 MAR 1:30pm Travis McCarthy
SUN 23 MAR 6:30pm Mark Easton
SAT 29 MAR 9pm Chrissy & Rod
SUN 30 MAR 1:30pm Matt Katsis
SAT 5 APR 9pm Retro Revival
SUN 6 APR 1:30pm Anna Scionti
SAT 12 APR 9pm Bec & Marty
SUN 13 APR 1:30pm Grim Fawkner
SAT 19 APR 9pm Travis McCarthy
SUN 20 APR 1:30pm Bret Mosley
SAT 26 APR 9pm Untapped
SUN 27 APR 1:30pm Gravy Train
SAT 3 MAY 9pm Retro Revival
SUN 4 MAY 1:30pm Tommy McEwan
SAT 10 MAY 9pm Travis McCarthy
SAT 17 MAY 9pm Untapped
SAT 24 MAY 9pm Bec & Marty
SUN 25 MAY 1:30pm Jarrod Shaw
SAT 31 MAY 9pm Retro Revival
BALLARAT TRADES HALL
24 Camp St • tradeshallevents.au
SAT 8 MAR 7pm Rose Turtle Ertler & Inga Liljestrom
FRI 14 MAR 7pm Oswin, Skinner & Lane
SAT 15 MAR 7pm Steve Platter & The Dirty Blues, The McNaMarr Project
THU 27 MAR 7pm The Brother Brothers (USA)
FRI 28 MAR 7pm Mick Trembath, Snake Valley Heavy Rescue
THU 10 APR 7pm David Francey (CANADA)
FRI 11 APR 7pm The Darlings Family Trust, Rhyley McGrath
SAT 12 APR 7pm Pyrex, Madi Walker
SAT 26 APR 7pm Trudy & Phil Edgeley
FRI 2 MAY 7pm Symon D Dower, Marcus Cassells
FRI 16 MAY 7pm Live at Union Square
SAT 17 MAY 7pm Live at Union Square
Victoria Theatre • Bradshaw St, Golden Point sovereignhill.com.au/events
SAT 22 MAR 7:30pm The Music of Ennio Morricone & the Spaghetti West: The Counterfeit feat. Freya Josephine Hollick
KANK WOLVERANG RECORDS
30 Main Rd, Bakery Hill
SUN 2 MAR 2pm Leo Gunn Solo
SAT 8 MAR 2pm Teira + Alby
SUN 9 MAR 2pm Osska Perrett
SUN 23 MAR 2pm Chaos Co Op
SAT 12 APR from 10:30am Uproar, Forklift Assassins, Milan, Vendetta, Primitive Deserters, Dirtbird, KXX
SAT 17 MAY 2pm Earthen Well
KILDERKIN DISTILLERY
14A Hill St, Mt Pleasant • 0424 791 790 kilderkindistillery.com.au
SAT 15 MAR 7:30pm Auld Alliance
Black Hill, Ballarat • chisholmst.com
FRI 21 & SAT 22 MAR 6pm Bronwyn Blaiklock
FRI 25 & SAT 26 APR 6pm Chris McNulty & Michael Westlake
SAT 17 MAY 6pm Swing Nova
VOLTA
15 Field St • voltaballarat.com.au
FRI 7 MAR 9pm Luke Combs Appreciation Night
FRI 21 MAR 8pm SPEED
SAT 12 APR 7:30pm Mia Wray
BALLAARAT
MECHANICS’ INSTITUTE
117 Sturt St • 5331 3042 ballaratmi.org.au
SUN 27 APR 4pm Ash Grunwald
SUN 18 MAY 2pm Dame Nellie Melba Celebration Performance - Melba Opera Trust
Terminus Theatre • 200 Lydiard St Nth thegoodsshedballarat.com.au
SAT 31 MAY 7pm Australian Eagles Show & Money For Nothing: Dire Straits Experience
BALLARAT PERFORMING
ARTS CENTRE
501 – 503 Neill St, Soldiers Hill bpacballarat.org
SAT 29 MAR 7pm BPAC Gala Concert: BCMA, Ballarat Choral Society, Ballarat National Theatre, Ballarat Lyric Theatre, Ballarat Symphony Orchestra, Ballarat Voices & more.
ODESSA AT LEAVER'S HOTEL
80 Albert Street, Creswick • 0428 694 258 facebook.com/OdessaAtLeaversHotel
SAT 1 MAR 7pm Mick Harvey
SUN 16 MAR 2pm Mikelangelo
FRI 28 MAR 7:30pm Rufous Whistler
SAT 29 MAR 7:30pm Dave Warner
FRI 18 APR 6pm Majelen
THU 24 APR 7pm Karl S. Williams & Sally Wiggins
FRI 23 MAY 7pm Daniel Champagne
FRI 30 MAY 7pm Geoff Achison
SAT 31 MAY 7pm Shaun Kirk
Featuring MARK SHELLEY
Experience the wonder of Roy Orbison in this brilliant portrayal of the man, his music, his voice, & his life.
ONLY THE LONELY… RUNNING SCARED...
SWEET DREAM BABY… ANYTHING YOU WANT… CANDY MAN…BLUE BAYOU… IN DREAMS…CRYING… WORKIN FOR THE MAN… PENNY ARCADE… PRETTY WOMAN… MANY MORE…
WENDOUREE CENTRE FOR PERFORMING ARTS
SUNDAY 6 APRIL 2025 - 2:30PM
27 FEB - 9 MAR
Presented by Ballarat Lyric Theatre
Charlie Price has reluctantly inherited his father’s shoe factory, which is on the verge of bankruptcy. Trying to live up to his father’s legacy and save his family business, Charlie finds inspiration in the form of Lola, a fabulous entertainer in need of some sturdy stilettos. As they work to turn the factory around, this unlikely pair find they have more in common than they realised… and discover that when you change your mind, you can change your whole world. Tix: ballaratlyrictheatre.com.au
Her Majesty’s Theatre 17 Lydiard St Sth
8 - 10 MAR
At Ballarat Begonia Festival
Created by renowned puppetry company Spare
Parts Puppet Theatre, with designer and puppet maker Leon Hendroff, The Last Numbat is a large-scale, interactive performance installation that uses puppetry to explore connection, community and collaboration. With the help of 14 audience participants, The Last Numbat weaves a story of identity, endangered species and caring for our environment.
Info: ballaratbegoniafestival.com
Ballarat Botanical Gardens Gillies St, Wendouree
FRI 14 MAR 7:30pm
Suhani Shah is the world’s most subscribed mentalist, with over four million YouTube subscribers and two million Instagram followers. With her charm, incredible knowledge of human behaviour and unparalleled skills in mind reading, Suhani will have audiences on their feet. Let go of logic and let Suhani take over. Tix: hermaj.com
Her Majesty’s Theatre 17 Lydiard St Sth
19 - 23 MAR
Presented by The BallaRat Pack
An original musical revue showcasing the best that Broadway and Ballarat have to offer. Set in a rundown theatre inhabited by a motley collection of ghosts, this musical tells the story of what happens when the ghosts meet Mabel, a little girl who can see them. Filled with drama, comedy, music and romance this show has a bit of everything and is sure to delight audiences of all ages. Tix: ballaratmi.org.au
Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute 117 Sturt St
THU 27 MAR 7:30pm SHAKE RATTLE 'N' ROLL
The music you loved, the music you grew up with! With a dynamic stellar cast of singers, smoking hot dancers – including some from Dancing With The Stars, dazzling costumes, eye candy stage effects and sizzling choreography from Jive, Latin Ballroom, Cha-cha, Waltz, Fox Trot and Jazz, will transport you back to the rockin’, boppin’, unforgettable ‘50s and ‘60s jukebox era. Tix: hermaj.com
Her Majesty’s Theatre 17 Lydiard St Sth
SAT 29 MAR 12 & 2:30pm
One of the most-read children's books of all time, The Very Hungry Caterpillar emerges off the page in a masterful theatrical experience for children 18 months+ and their adults. Brought to life with a menagerie of 75 loveable puppets, this critically-acclaimed production faithfully adapts four of Eric Carle’s stories, including Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?, Ten Little Rubber Ducks, The Very Busy Spider and of course, the star of the show – The Very Hungry Caterpillar. Tix: hermaj.com
Her Majesty’s Theatre 17 Lydiard St Sth
TUE 1 APR 10am & 12pm
A hilarious musical about the importance of believing in yourself, realising your dreams and ... a dancing kangaroo! Josephine is a kangaroo who loves to dance. When a ballet troupe comes to the sleepy town of Shaggy Gully, Josephine desperately wants to dance like the
SAT 17 - SUN 18 MAY creswicktheatre.com.au
ballerinas in pink tutus. On the day of the first performance the prima ballerina twists her ankle and the understudy has a splinter in her toe. Josephine's talents are called upon to help save the day. Can she do it, and does it matter that she's a kangaroo? Tix: hermaj.com
Her Majesty’s Theatre 17 Lydiard St Sth
4 - 5 APR
Presented by Victorian Opera
Published in 1814, Jane Austen’s Mansfield Park tells the story of Fanny Price who, as a girl, was sent from her impoverished family to live with her wealthy relatives in their opulent manor. Jonathan Dove’s musical adaptation of Mansfield Park invites guests to be a fly on the wall in Jane Austen’s world of family drama, marriage negotiations, class and flirtation. Tix: hermaj.com
Her Majesty’s Theatre 17 Lydiard St Sth
4 & 6 APR
Presented by Ballarat National Theatre
A lack of empathy, a lack of meaning, and of love and of connectedness is one of the great
challenges for 21st Century humanity (and the planet we live on). Come see Ballarat National Theatre perform a dramatic reading of thematically connected short plays, songs, character monologues and interludes written by Ballarat local Barry Kay and directed by Louise Permezel. Tix: humanitix.com
Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute 117 Sturt St
5 - 6 APR 4pm
Presented by Ozact Theatre Company
Trouble arises in Athens, when young lovers Hermia and Lysander flee to escape Duke Theseus’s justice. In hot pursuit are Demetrius, who is in love with Hermia, and Helena who is in love with Demetrius. Chaos! In the forest, the lovesick foursome encounters the chaotic fairy Puck whose penchant for mischief goes a little too far! Fairy King, Oberon is unhappy with his fairy Queen, Titania. This contest of wills is just too much for a poor group of amateur actors who fall victim to their magic! Tix: ozact.com
Hepburn Sound Shell
Mineral Springs Reserve Rd, Hepburn Springs
FRI 11 APR 10:30am & 1pm
In this colourful adventure through stories of identity, body positivity and the power of imagination, Turtle & Sugar Rush lead the ultimate dance party for children and their ‘chosen’ families. Featuring their original pop bangers Different, Frown to Crown, Fruit Time and the instant classic My Chosen Family, this day-doof disco overflows with high energy and entertainment. Perfect for children aged 2 to 7. Tix: hermaj.com
Her Majesty’s Theatre 17 Lydiard St Sth
SAT 26 APR 2pm
Presented by Lyster Opera
Lyster Opera returns to the historic Creswick Town Hall in this rousing new production of Mozart's great comedy, The Abduction from the Seraglio. Featuring a vibrant cast and all new sets and costumes, this is a fast paced romp with some of Mozart's most demanding and exciting music. Tix: lysteropera.com.au Creswick Town Hall 70 Albert St, Creswick
5 & 6 April 2025
Hepburn Sound Shell, Hepburn Springs
Demonstrations | Exhibitions | Events
10am-4pm 17-18 | 24-25 May 2025
Ballarat Mining Exchange
Lydiard St North, Ballarat Central
Free entry
AURA
AURA immerses you in 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
THU 6 MAR 7pm
THU 3 APR 7pm
THU 8 MAY 7pm
GOODWILL COMEDY CLUB
A rotating line-up of local and Melbourne acts, hosted by award-winning comedian Neptune Henriksen. Tix: trybooking.com
Ellington's Wine Bar 405A Sturt St
8 - 10 MAR
BALLARAT BEGONIA FESTIVAL
Celebrate the beauty of begonias, sustainability & community spirit + family friendly activities, garden displays and entertainment. Info: ballaratbegoniafestival.com
Ballarat Botanical Gardens Wendouree Pde, Lake Wendouree
13 - 15 MAR 9:30am – 4pm
CRAFTALIVE BALLARAT
CraftAlive is a hands-on event. A chance to learn from world-class specialists with interactive classes. Retailers will have kits, supplies and equipment available. craftalive.com.au/events/ballarat
The Grounds 6 Rose Hill Rd, Mt Rowan 14 - 27 MAR
HARMONY FEST
The City of Ballarat's vibrant celebration of our culturally diverse community and their contributions to society. Info: facebook.com/ harmonyfestballarat
22 - 23 MAR
CLUNES BOOKTOWN FESTIVAL
The pinnacle gathering for book enthusiasts, authors, and thinkers alike. A festival full of author talks, workshops and live entertainment. Discover the outdoor book bazaar with over one hundred stall holders. Info: clunesbooktown.com.au
SUN 23 MAR 8:30am
BALLARAT COLOUR FRENZY
Walk, run, dance, or crawl through a 5km course filled with five vibrant colour stations, a bubble-filled foam station, and inflatable crawl obstacles. Tix: colourfrenzy.com.au
Victoria Park Russell St, Newington
29 - 30 MAR THE SMASHES
JOUSTING TOURNAMENT
A fierce yet friendly jousting battle between the great sporting nations of Australia and England. Tix: kryalcastle.com.au
Kryal Castle
121 Forbes Road, Leigh Creek
4 - 6 APR
CRESFEST
Creswick comes alive with intimate performances by celebrated contemporary folk and roots artists. Info: cresfest.com.au
SAT 5 APR 1 – 5pm
BUNINYONG VILLAGE MARKET
Enjoy the colours of Autumn at the Buninyong Village Market, with gorgeous craft, art and food stalls. Buninyong Town Hall
309 Learmonth St, Buninyong
SUN 6 APR 6pm
NAN'S FAVOURITES
Aussie comedy icons Liam Dowling & Ben Christopher, have teamed up to create one of the most viral skit duos seen in years.
Tix: voltaballarat.com.au
Volta 15 Field St
SATURDAY 5 APRIL
1Pm to 5pm Craft . Food . Art . Music facebook.com/buninyongvillagemarket
SAT 12 APR 10:30am – 5pm
RECORD STORE DAY
Attention vinyl lovers and music aficionados! A day for music enthusiasts, collectors and fans to visit guest record seller stalls, with live music all day .
Kank Wolverang Records 30 Main Rd
THU 17 APR 7pm
NEPTUNE HENRIKSEN:
BEING A WOMAN FOR MONEY
Presented by Goodwill Comedy Club. Critically acclaimed tour de force, Neptune Henriksen, looks back at their time as a stripper, life model, and full-service sex worker, in a fast-paced, absurdist, queer AF show.
Tix: trybooking.com
Ellington's Wine Bar 405A Sturt St
26 - 27 APR
BALLARAT MARATHON
A weekend running festival in stunning Ballarat featuring two days of running for all ages and abilities. Info: ballaratmarathon.com.au
2 - 4 MAY
GRAMPIANS GRAPE ESCAPE
A weekend of regional wine, food and music with masterclasses, live music, guest chefs, kids activities, plus a village of more than 100 stalls. Info & tix: grampiansgrapeescape.com.au
Halls Gap Recreation Reserve
Grampians Rd, Halls Gap
SAT 3 MAY 1pm
AFL FOOTBALL
Western Bulldogs v Port Adelaide. Tix: ticketmaster.com.au
Mars Stadium Creswick Rd, Wendouree
3 - 4 MAY
125TH LAKE GOLDSMITH
STEAM & VINTAGE RALLY
65 display sheds, steam & oil engines, cars, motorcycles, tractors & trucks, blacksmithing, model boats & more. Info: lakegoldsmithsteamrally.org.au
Lake Goldsmith Steam Rally 1234 Carngham-Lake Goldsmith Rd, Lake Goldsmith
10 - 11 MAY
ANDERSON’S MILL
HERITAGE WEEKEND
Art & craft displays, heritage steam engines, rare trades, face painting, food & coffee vans and much more. Anderson's Mill Elizabeth St, Smeaton
THU 15 MAY 6:30pm
KEVIN BLOODY WILSON
Australia’s most controversial and outrageous comedian. Tix: oztix.com.au
The Goods Shed 200 Lydiard St Nth
FRI 16 MAY
HIDDEN
A vibrant micro-festival showcasing projection-based, site-responsive works of 8 talented local artists. Be led through a hidden circuit trail to discover stories and immerse yourself in a spectacle that transforms ordinary indoor-outdoor spaces into extraordinary visual experiences. Info & tix: creativeballarat.com.au/ hidden-25
16 - 18 MAY
28 quality antique dealers exhibiting antiques including furniture, china, jewellery, silver, artworks, militaria, objects d'art & more. All items for sale.
Civic Hall 300 Mair St
16 - 25 MAY
With Ballarat’s stunning Victorian architecture as the backdrop, the annual festival highlights the city’s golden past & evolving future. Vintage steam trains, car show, tweed ride, tours, entertainment & more.
Info: ballaratheritagefestival.com.au
17 - 18 & 24 - 25 MAY
CRAFT LAB 25
Over two weekends, a selection of the finest makers from Ballarat and surrounds. Heritage trades, fine arts,
traditional practices, cultural rituals & contemporary practice combined. Practitioners share their knowledge, expertise and techniques with the public over four full days. Ballarat Mining Exchange 12 Lydiard St Nth
THU 22 MAY 7pm
FRANKLY: DOOM BOX
Presented by Goodwill Comedy Club. Silly, snappy and side-splittingly naughty, Frankly’s all singing - no dancing - high energy hour of original musical comedy is “THE one-woman cabaret” (Weekend Notes) not to miss. Tix: trybooking.com
Ellington's Wine Bar 405A Sturt St
23 - 24 MAY
Join us for a fantastic global selection of award winning films! Full program and tickets available online at: buninyongfilmfestival.com.au
Buninyong Town Hall 309 Learmonth St, Buninyong
FOOD
FIRST SATURDAY OF THE MONTH BRIDGE MALL • BALLARAT
Visit our website or social pages for full schedule
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)
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)
DAYLESFORD SUNDAY MARKET
SUNDAYS 8am – 3pm 18 Raglan St, Daylesford (45km from Ballarat)
BEAUFORT TOWN MARKET
SAT 19 APR 9am – 1pm
SAT 31 MAY 9am – 1pm Beaufort Memorial Rose Garden (49km from Ballarat)
TALBOT FARMERS MARKET
3RD SUN OF THE MONTH 9am – 1pm Scandinavian Cres, Talbot (52km from Ballarat)
