Artist Linda Franklin Gilded Ink & Bluestone
Made of: Ballarat Experiences madeofballarat.com
Artist Linda Franklin Gilded Ink & Bluestone
Made of: Ballarat Experiences madeofballarat.com
PO Box 1289
Hill VIC 3354
Editors: Scott Bain & Libby Drew info@bestofballarat.com.au Printer: Sovereign Press Ballarat
We acknowledge the Wadawurrung people as the traditional custodians of this region and pay our respects to their elders past and present.
© 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.
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 unique range of beers in our brewery bar + local wines, cider & spirits. Relaxed & inclusive, our bar is a great venue for your next function. See website for details.
884 Humffray St Sth Mount 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
saigon-allee.business.site
9
Latin American Eatery + Bar + Takeaway. Think ceviche, empanadas, arepas, juices, sweets and late night cocktails! Traditional Latin street food at its best, with plenty of vegetarian options too. Open Wed – Thu 5pm – late, Fri – Sun 11:30am – late.
36 Armstrong St Nth
5309 3070
Wait at the window bench, lounge in the laneway or sit inside whilst you sip on a Coffee Supreme latte or savour a crispy cooked toastie, sweet tasty treat, Prana Chai or perfectly brewed T2. A funky, fun and fabulous shopping destination too!
Open Mon – Sat 7:30am – 3pm.
313 Lydiard St Nth
4343 1414
Wed - Fri : 4pm - 11pm Sat : 2pm - 11pm
Midtown Cellars and Bar is Ballarat’s brand new go to for delicious wine and craft beer. Being situated in the heart of Sturt Street’s 400 strip and open seven days a week, makes Midtown Cellars the ideal drinking spot for locals and tourists alike. With a choice of over 150 craft beers and a wall of wine to either drink in or takeaway,there is something to please everyone, every day.
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 10am – 5pm, Sat 10am – 4pm.
Cnr Errard & Urquhart Sts
5331 4548
thecraftysquirrel.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
furniture@pamoindustries.com
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. Mon – Fri 9:30 – 5, Sat 9:30 – 3.
27 Sturt St
5332 9297
sweetfern.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 Fri – Sat 11am - 4pm, Sun 11am - 3pm.
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 Monday – Thursday or by appointment.
32 Silverwattle Dr, Invermay 5333 1476
alisoncoleembroidery.com.au
Nicola Cerini creates nature-inspired products for the body and the home. Our collections emphasize beauty, practicality, high-quality, low impact and durable materials. Bags, Clothing, Floor Rugs & more. See website for opening hours.
36A Main Rd 0402 355 977
nicolacerini.com
Pre-loved books for all tastes, comfy chairs and friendly smiles
We are a bookshop that also holds live music events. And we support new titles by local authors.
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!
Go2000 ToursEscapade 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
Ballarat
Ballarat Sightseeing Tours
Sightseeing Tours
Ballarat City and Region Tours Sightseeing Tours Go2000.com Travel
• Old Gold Towns Tour
• 90 min City Tour
• Great Ocean Road
• 90 Minute City Heritage Tour
• Old Gold Towns Tour
• 4 Hour Old Goldtowns Tour
• The Grampians
• Great Ocean Road
• Dr Blake Mysteries Tour
• Gardens & galleries
• The Grampians
• Gardens & galleries
• Ballarat CBD Walking Tour
• And more...
Book online or by phone
Book online or by phone visit www.go2000.com.au or call 0407 966 651
• And more... Every tour is a postcard from the past
Book online or by phone visit www.go2000.com.au or call 0407 966 651
www.go2000.com.au 0407 966 651
The Official Dr Blake Ballarat Tours Visit up to 10 of the Ballarat filming sites used in producing the Dr Blake Mysteries series. Book online or by phone with Go2000 Sightseeing visit www.go2000.com.au or call 0407 966 651
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!
Craft Lab Image: Tony EvansUNTIL 11 MAR
EBONY GULLIVER:
THINKING BODY, FEELING MIND
Ebony Gulliver’s abstract paintings explore the relationship between consciousness and embodiment. A Backspace Gallery exhibition. Art Gallery of Ballarat 40 Lydiard St Nth
UNTIL 17 MAR
KENNETH KRONBERGER: BEHOLD THE ANIMATED DIORAMA!
Through an investigation into the historically intriguing, silent and static miniaturised world of the diorama and the contemporary art of animation, Kronberger’s new work & PhD exam exhibition integrates these intriguing imagined
formats, creating his own metamorphised ‘worlds’ and fantastical illusionistic spaces.
Post Office Gallery Cnr Sturt & Lydiard St
UNTIL 19 MAR
MOTHER NATURE'S TREASURES
Gillian Freestone works in oil, acrylic and mixed media - many of her paintings are of flowers and birds. Paul Carter is an aerosol artist with 20+ years experience using spray paint, from his early days of street art to producing fine art on canvas and large scale murals.
Mercure Ballarat 613 Main Rd
UNTIL 26 MAR
WEAVING A NEW LIFE:
KAREN TAPESTRY WEAVERS
The Karen people are an ethnic minority group forced to escape Myanmar due to persecution. In 2013, master weaver Sara Lindsay led a tapestry training program for a group of Karen women living in Melbourne. Four weavers emerged from this program, Cha Mai Oo, Mu Naw Poe, Paw Gay Poe and Shuklay Tahpo.
Eureka Centre Ballarat 102 Stawell St Sth
ALL ART FOR SALE
7-10 APRIL 2023 10am - 4pm (FREE)
Official opening Friday 7 April 2pm
BALLARAT BOTANICAL GARDENS
Robert Clark Horticultural Centre
UNTIL 16 APR
Next Gen 2023 showcases the work of students from schools from Ballarat and its broader region who have just completed VCE studies in Art, Studio Arts, Design & Technology, Visual Communication and Design & Media. Art Gallery of Ballarat 40 Lydiard St Nth
UNTIL 15 MAY
Over a period of 43 years, the Gallery Women’s Association has raised money to support the Gallery with acquisitions and conservation. Including works by Ian Fairweather, Rona Green, Kevin Lincoln, Gwyn Hanssen-Pigott, Albert Namatjira and Margaret Stones.
Art Gallery of Ballarat 40 Lydiard St Nth
1 MAR - 31 MAY
This Autumn the UNESCO display at the Ballarat Visitor Centre is showcasing local artists that
contemporise heritage creative practices. Ballarat Visitor Information Centre
Ballarat Town Hall, 225 Sturt St
2 MAR - 11 APR
KNOLL:
A collection of handcrafted strings of beads made from seeds, flowers and wood, collected from in and around Ballarat showcasing a specific place or species.
Unicorn Lane off 133 Sturt St (viewing 24/7)
4 - 26 MAR
Tamzin is an artist & psychologist, studying both areas over the last 30 years. These paintings are inspired by experiences with the elements of water, earth, air and fire and also include pieces about the intimacy of domestic spaces.
Old Butchers Shop Gallery 112 Seymour St
4 MAR - 30 APR
This major exhibition draws together practitioners who reimagine practices in textiles and fibre art. Through expanded painting, assemblage, performative gesture, sound, video and installation, the exhibition presents contemporary Australian textiles and fibre art in expansive and plural forms, altering perceptions of materials, form and function. A UNSW Galleries touring exhibition.
Art Gallery of Ballarat 40 Lydiard St Nth
11 MAR - 10 APR
JOHN SULLIVAN:
MULTIMEDIA MAN - UP TILL 80
Celebrating his 80th birthday, John will showcase a selection of his paintings, photographs and video art filmed in Ballarat, created over 30 years.
Art Space Ballarat 14 Lydiard St Nth
16 MAR - 7 MAY
SEIKO HOASHI: EPIGRAPHS
Seiko Hoashi describes her expressive calligraphic works as visual poetry. She incorporates Japanese ancient words, quotes and poems, drawing on her Japanese-Australian identity. A Backspace Gallery exhibition.
Art Gallery of Ballarat 40 Lydiard St Nth
22 MAR - 16 APR
Recent works including still life and portraiture by local Ballarat artist Abbie Matthews.
Mercure Ballarat 613 Main Rd
31 MAR - 28 APR
SCOPE showcases new work by lecturers, teachers, research associates and research fellows from Federation University's Gippsland and Ballarat campus, who, as educators and researchers, also sustain an ongoing rigorous artistic practice.
Post Office Gallery Cnr Sturt & Lydiard St
1 APR - 20 AUG
New textile and fibre artworks by Donna Blackall, Amanda Ho, Sara Lindsay, David Pearce and Gosia Wlodarczak in response to the formal and material qualities of the Flag of the Southern Cross, also known as the Eureka Flag.
Eureka Centre Ballarat 102 Stawell St Sth
4 - 23 APR
ROBERT WHITSON: SOUTH BY SOUTH WEST
An inquiry into tracks and trails from Western Victoria and Tasmania, where Robert has done a lot of landscape painting over the past 40 years.
Old Butchers Shop Gallery 112 Seymour St
7 - 10 APR
The annual exhibition of the Ballarat Society of Artists Inc. showcasing local artists, with all artworks for sale. Cards, unframed artworks and merchandise also available. Free entry.
Robert Clark Centre Ballarat Botanical Gardens
13 APR - 23 MAY
Nikkole depicts the 5 stages of grief through the lens of her roles as a nurse, specialising in care that often leads to supporting families through the beginning of their grief journey.
Unicorn Lane off 133 Sturt St (viewing 24/7)
16 APR - 14 MAY
A study of oil paintings and sculptures responding to different bodies of water, with the artist creating new works whilst in Art Space.
Art Space Ballarat 14 Lydiard St Nth
17 APR - 14 MAY
An exhibition by Ballaarat Quilters Inc. of miniature quilts measuring 40cm x 40cm. Quilters showcase their personal style in their work, using a design of their choice.
Mercure Ballarat 613 Main Rd
29 APR - 16 JUL
Ballarat-based artist Stephen Davidson draws on childhood memories, his experience as a migrant and a decade of travel to reflect on metaphor, simile and analogy in a series of works in different media including prints, drawings and ceramics.
Art Gallery of Ballarat 40 Lydiard St Nth
6 - 7 MAY
Showcasing over 50 artists at studios and other venues, right across Golden Plains Shire. Wide open spaces, big skies and beautiful bushlands inspire our local artists in all their various mediums - visiting these spaces provides an intimate peek into their arts practice.
Info: gpartsinc.com.au
6 - 28 MAY
PATRICK DUFFY: OUT OF THE BOX!
The artist explores the versatility of repurposed cardboard to produce larger than life sculptures that challenge the viewer to not think outside the box, but what’s been achieved with the box.
Old Butchers Shop Gallery 112 Seymour St
11 MAY - 25 JUN
LISA GERVASONI: REIMAGING OUR CULTURAL LANDSCAPES
Landscape painter Lisa Gervasoni brings to her painting practice her experience as a Heritage Planner, incorporating aerial and oblique views of well-known landscapes. She abstracts and applies thematic colouring to develop layers within the landscape. A Backspace Gallery exhibition.
Art Gallery of Ballarat 40 Lydiard St Nth
16 MAY - 11 JUN
THE LANDSCAPE OF TIME & PLACE
Oil paintings of fungi that have been found in the Napoleons area reveal the beauty, bounty and diversity of these magnificent organisms.
Mercure Ballarat 613 Main Rd
19 - 28 MAY
SHAC ARTWALK
This year the Soldiers Hill Artist Collective ArtWalk will align with the Ballarat Heritage Festival. Exhibitions in shopfronts & businesses, view and buy local art. The ArtWalk Map is available in participating venues, or view on your phone at SHAC social media sites. Info: shacballarat.org.au
20 MAY - 6 AUG
The Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood are amongst the most loved artists of the 19th century. This outstanding international exhibition draws from the extraordinary collections of the Ashmolean Museum in Oxford to tell the stories of the artists, their lives and loves. These rarely-seen, often fragile art works offer an intimate and rare look into the world of the Pre-Raphaelite artists, models and friends. Presented in Australia exclusively by the Art Gallery of Ballarat.
Art Gallery of Ballarat
40 Lydiard St Nth
SHAC ARTWALK 19-28 MAY 2023
INSTAGRAM: SHACBALLARAT
20 MAY - 6 AUG IN THE COMPANY OF MORRIS
In conjunction with Pre-Raphaelites, the Art Gallery of Ballarat presents In the company of Morris, an exhibition celebrating the ongoing legacy of William Morris in the work of Australian artists in the Art Gallery of Ballarat Collection from the 19th century until today. Contemporary artists include; Kate Rohde, Elizabeth Pulie, Stephen Bird, Deborah Klein and Paul Yore.
Art Gallery of Ballarat
40 Lydiard St Nth
20 MAY - 6 AUG
DEL KATHRYN BARTON: INSIDE ANOTHER LAND
Del Kathryn Barton’s work is a celebration of body, self and sexual expression. This exhibition features works from her collage series Inside another land which capture a sense of ‘longing, sexual agency, colour, violent abundance’. Works on loan from the Arndt Collection.
Art Gallery of Ballarat
40 Lydiard St Nth
Let your curiosity take flight with a new series of experiences led by award-winning Ballarat creatives.
• Capture Ballarat’s backstreets on film with photographer Jacqueline Matisse
• Cast silver jewellery using the lost wax process with Claire McArdle
• Join Steph Wallace for a wild clay experience
• Paint a ceramic pot or vase in the colourful Ivy&Coco studio
• Embellish vintage prints with gold leaf under the guidance of Linda Franklin
• Indulge your inner wordsmith as you explore hidden laneways and cultural spots with poet Megan J Riedl
• Enjoy a local Larrikin gin flight and create an abstract botanical painting with Laura Day.
Craft your own adventure at madeofballarat.com
Explore Ballarat’s thriving creative culture with this new series of experiences led by awardwinning local makers and creators. From gold leafing in a bluestone cellar to capturing moody backstreets on film, these hands-on adventures will take you off the beaten path and help you unlock your creative potential. Info & bookings: madeofballarat.com
SAT 11 & 25 MAR 4:30 – 6pm
Learn about the Niche Fragrance world and discover the Michael Edwards Fragrance Wheel, learning to distinguish between fragrance families. Bookings: sweetfern.com.au
Sweet Fern 27 Sturt St
FRI 17 MAR 10am – 12pm
A guided creative writing workshop designed to get the creative juices flowing in a fun, pressurefree environment. Presented by local poet and spoken word performer, Megan J. Riedl. Bookings: humanitix.com
Ballarat Library at Town Hall 225 Sturt St
SUN 19 - TUE 21 MAR
A fabulous 3-day Japanese themed craft retreat, open to all skill levels. Be prepared to go home with some great crafty projects, new friends and a love of all things Japanese! Info & bookings: thecraftysquirrel.bigcartel.com
THU 23 MAR 5 – 9pm
A fun and immersive workshop using a simple screen printing technique with cut-paper stencils. In this class, Nicola will teach the basics of screen printing on fabric and give you the skills and knowledge to set up your own fabric printing studio. Bookings: nicolacerini.com
Nicola Cerini 36A Main Rd
FRI 3 MAR 10:30am – 12pm
Discover forms of found poetry such as blackout, erasure and cut-out. Hosted by Megan J. Riedl.
SAT 4 MAR, WED 12 APR, SAT 20 MAY 1 – 3pm
A Zine is a DIY, low-cost publication that can be made up of writing, cut-and-paste elements, drawings and more.
SAT 11 MAR 12:30pm – 2:30pm
SAT 27 MAY 11:30am – 1:30pm
Toni Louise will guide you through creating a mixed-media artwork that combines a variety of materials and techniques.
WED 15 MAR, SAT 22 APR,
WED 10 MAY 1 – 3pm
Come try the relief printing process of linocut. Learn design, image transfer, carving, papers & printing techniques.
WED 22 MAR, SAT 8 APR, SAT 13 MAY 2 – 4pm
COLLAGE WORKSHOP
With Toni Louise, a skilled collage artist, you'll learn the basics of cut & paste.
SAT 15 APR 10:30am – 12pm
Learn the process of drawing portraits from where to begin to the importance of tone, value and composition.
Bookings: thefemxleexperience@gmail.com
Femxle Experience Art Rebellion
57 Bridge Mall
FRI 24 MAR 10am – 12pm
Discover forms of found poetry such as blackout, erasure and cut-out. Use old books & magazines to create visually arresting pieces of writing by removing, rearranging and changing words from existing pieces of text. Presented by local poet and spoken word performer, Megan J. Riedl. Bookings: humanitix.com
Ballarat Library at Town Hall 225 Sturt St
FRI 31 MAR 10am – 12pm
A relaxed session of writing poetry as personal catharsis. Let your feelings flow onto the page with a series of writing prompts and the gift of time to write, with the option to share your works out loud in a safe space. Presented by local poet and spoken word performer, Megan J. Riedl. Bookings: humanitix.com
Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute 117 Sturt St
SAT 1 APR 2 – 5pm
Create your very own nature-inspired design by applying textures and patterns provided to a pre-cut plywood panel. Take your plywood artwork home complete with colourful hanging cord, packaged in a box, ready to give as a gift or hang on your wall! Bookings: nicolacerini.com
Nicola Cerini 36A Main Rd
FRI 14 APR 10am – 12pm
Using your original writing or a variety of existing texts – including poetry, informal prose,
117 Sturt St • 5331 3042 • ballaratmi.org.au
THU 2 MAR 7:30pm Daniel Champagne
FRI 3 MAR 7pm Juan Alban & The Resentments, Shadow Feet, Messenger Hall
1220 Howitt St • 5338 0980 • wcpa.com.au
SAT 11 MAR 7:30pm Leaving Jackson
SAT 18 MAR 2pm The Australian Tenors
SUN 19 MAR 2:30pm Ballarat Symphony
SAT 25 MAR 7:30pm Best of the Bee Gees
SAT 22 APR 8pm Australian Fleetwood Mac Show
FRI 5 MAY 7:30pm Cirque Mother Africa
THU 11 MAY 8pm The Robertson Brothers
dramatic monologue and political speeches –explore structure, dynamics and rhythm in the delivery of your text and learn techniques to engage your audience. Presented by local poet and spoken word performer, Megan J. Riedl. Bookings: humanitix.com
Ballarat Library at Town Hall 225 Sturt St
SAT 29 APR 1:30 – 5:30pm
Be part of a small group and make a beautiful, functional bag from your choice of Nicola's printed fabric. The tote includes an optional inside pocket, lining and long leather strap. Bookings: nicolacerini.com
Nicola Cerini 36A Main Rd
Casual classes in Goldwork and Stumpwork embroidery for beginners to advanced. Day and evening classes available, dates at alisoncoleembroidery.com.au. Bookings: 5333 1476 or alison@alisoncoleembroidery.com.au
Alison Cole Embroidery
32 Silverwattle Dr, Invermay
Rear of 24-28 Armstrong St Nth • 5317 7158 hoptemple.com.au
THU NIGHTS 7pm Music Bingo
FRI NIGHTS 8pm Chill DJ Set
SAT NIGHTS 9pm Live Music
SUN AFTERNOONS 12pm Blues & Brews
SAT 4 MAR 9pm Untapped
SAT 11 MAR 9pm Trunk Unpacked
SAT 18 MAR 9pm Untapped
SAT 25 MAR 9pm Trunk Unpacked
FRI 31 MAR 8pm Hop Hootananny
SAT 1 APR 9pm Untapped
SAT 8 APR 9pm Untapped
SAT 15 APR 9pm Retro Revival
SAT 22 APR 9pm Live Music
FRI 28 APR 8pm Hop Hootananny
SAT 29 APR 9pm Bec & Marty
SAT 6 MAY 9pm Untapped
SAT 13 MAY 9pm Bec & Marty
SAT 20 MAY 9pm Untapped
FRI 26 MAY 8pm Hop Hootananny
SAT 27 MAY 9pm Bec & Marty
VOLTA
15 Field St • voltaballarat.com.au
SAT 4 MAR 8pm Anticline
SUN 5 MAR 7pm Old Mervs
SAT 11 MAR 8pm Rum Jungle
FRI 17 MAR 8pm These New South Whales
SAT 18 MAR 8pm Majak Door
THU 23 MAR 7pm Alivan Blu
FRI 24 MAR 8pm Urthboy
SAT 1 APR 8pm Steph Strings
THU 6 APR 8pm Yacht Club DJ's
FRI 14 APR 8pm British India
SAT 15 APR 7pm No Bragging Rights (USA)
SAT 6 MAY 7:30pm The Go Set
FRI 26 MAY 8pm Cosmic Psychos
THE EASTERN
81 Humffray St Nth • 0483 809 906 theeasternballarat.com
FRI 3 MAR 8pm Mick Daley's Corporate Raiders
SAT 4 MAR 7pm Connor Toomey
FRI 10 MAR 8pm Hidden Intent
FRI 17 MAR 9pm Ben Salter
SAT 18 MAR 7pm Gutless
Creswick • cresfest.com.au
31 MAR - 2 APR
Kutcha Edwards, Ami Williamson, Tenzin
Choegyal, While & Matthews (UK), Chris Stout & Catriona McKay (Scot), Natalie & Brittany Haas (USA), Martha Spencer (USA) + more
BOARDWALK COUNTRY
MUSIC FESTIVAL
Kryal Castle • oneworldentertainment.com.au
SAT 22 APR
Jimmie Allen (USA), Gavin DeGraw (USA), Kasey Chambers, Busby Marou, Shannon Noll, The Wolfe Brothers, Darlinghurst
THE WORLD IS A VAMPIRE
Kryal Castle • oneworldentertainment.com.au
SUN 23 APR
The Smashing Pumpkins (USA), Jane's Addiction (USA), Amyl & The Sniffers, Redhook, Battlesnake + local acts & Pro Wrestling
between Billy Corgan’s NWA (National Wrestling Alliance) and the WAOA (Wrestling Alliance of Australia)
SAT 11 MAR 7:30pm
THE JOHNNY CASH & JUNE CARTER SHOW
Relive the moments that captured the life of a legend. For more than 40 years Johnny Cash and June Carter enthralled audiences around the world with their songs of life, love and heartache. A love story played out through some of the greatest songs ever written: Folsom Prison Blues, Jackson, Walk the Line, A Boy Named Sue, Ring of Fire, San Quentin, Big River, Get Rhythm, Sunday Morning Coming Down and much more. A heart-warming and inspiring night of music for all to enjoy. Tix: wcpa.com.au
WCPA
1220 Howitt St, Wendouree
SAT 18 MAR 2pm
THE AUSTRALIAN TENORS
Presenting the songs of Andrew Lloyd Webber, Stephen Sondheim, Leonard Bernstein and other greats in a concert filled with the songs that have inspired generations worldwide. Five of the best tenor voices in Australia bring romance, excitement, warmth and humour to their performances. With support vocalist, Opera Australia soprano Giuseppina Grech and backed by The Southern Cross Orchestra. Tix: wcpa.com.au
WCPA
1220 Howitt St, Wendouree
14 - 22 APR
Presented by Ballarat National Theatre
It is February 2029 and the world is on the brink of crisis. Water is scarce, the first nuke has been launched and each week, somewhere in the world natural disasters are occurring – brought on by global warming. A group of families have been pooling their resources, slowly building a bunker on some remote bushland to protect them all. To survive. Tix: hermaj.com
Mount Rowan School Theatre
453-457 Forest St, Wendouree
FRI 21 APR 1:30pm
Presented by Promac Productions and Her Majesty's Ballarat
This salute to the ANZACS & Vietnam veterans will again contain many hit songs, stories and indeed laughter, all in front of a backdrop of incredible images on the big screen. With a stunning cast led by narrator/compere Chris Mckenna, star tenor Roy Best, international soprano Alison Jones and rising piano virtuoso William Schmidt. Many great singers who performed during the wars are highlighted in this wonderful production – Dame Vera Lynn, The Andrews Sisters, Bob Dylan, Normie Rowe and many more. Tix: hermaj.com
Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute 117 Sturt St
FRI 5 MAY 7:30pm
The heartbeat of Africa pulsates throughout this jaw-dropping show as the musicians and artists transport audience members to the breathtaking continent of Africa. This extravaganza combines the very best talent from nine African countries including Ethiopia, South Africa, Kenya and Tanzania to provide the wonder, suspense and joy that is Cirque Mother Africa. Combining the best of contortion, acrobatics, traditional dance, live music, pan spinning, hand balancing and so much more. Tix: wcpa.com.au
WCPA
1220 Howitt St, Wendouree
SAT 20 MAY 7:30pm
REVUE DE’ BALLARAT BURLESQUE & VARIETY SHOW
Presented by The Australian Pinup Pageant
A night of naughty & nice, fun & laughter and total guaranteed entertainment. Headlining the revue are The Sugar Show Girls, with our MC Sugar Derramar. Special performances by Vivian Fonteyn, Miss Mini Mayhem, Lucy Furr, Rassputin, Miss Lulu Lipstick, Rose Spencer and Liam Kelly. Tix: hermaj.com
Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute 117 Sturt St 24 - 28 MAY
Presented by The BallaRat Pack
The BallaRat Pack returns with a brand new show: a musical whodunnit set in Ballarat's gold rush era. Featuring a cast of dazzling characters brought to life by local performers, a host of classic Broadway show-tunes and plenty of intrigue, this black comedy is sure to delight audiences of all ages. Tix: trybooking.com
Craig's Royal Hotel 10 Lydiard St South
FRIDAY, 21 APRIL1.30pm
Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute
All tickets: $30.00
BOX OFFICE: 5333 5888 hermaj.com
11 - 13 MAR
BALLARAT BEGONIA FESTIVAL
Festival-goers can expect vibrant floral displays, markets, live music, family activities, roving entertainment and more!
Info: ballaratbegoniafestival.com
Ballarat Botanical Gardens
Wendouree Pde, Lake Wendouree
16 - 26 MAR
HARMONY FEST
The City of Ballarat’s vibrant celebration of our culturally diverse community and their contributions to society. Info: facebook.com/ harmonyfestballarat
FESTIVAL
May 20~28
a celebration of MAKER, ARTIST, ARTISAN.
FESTIVAL
25 - 26 MAR
CLUNES BOOKTOWN FESTIVAL
A festival full of author & artist talks, workshops and live entertainment. Discover the outdoor book bazaar with over a hundred stall holders. Info: clunesbooktown.com.au
31 MAR - 2 APR
CRESFEST
Creswick comes alive with intimate performances by celebrated contemporary folk and roots artists. Info: cresfest.com.au
SAT 1 APR 2 – 6pm
MARKET
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
issuu.com/bestofballarat
SAT 22 APR 2pm
BOARDWALK COUNTRY
MUSIC FESTIVAL
A mix of classic and contemporary country music with Jimmie Allen (USA), Gavin DeGraw (USA), Kasey Chambers, Busby Marou, Shannon Noll, The Wolfe Brothers and Darlinghurst.
Tix: oneworldentertainment.com.au
Kryal Castle
121 Forbes Rd, Leigh Creek
SUN 23 APR 2pm
THE WORLD IS A VAMPIRE FESTIVAL
A legendary line up with The Smashing Pumpkins, Jane’s Addiction, Amyl & The Sniffers, RedHook, Battlesnake plus new and up and coming local acts.
Tix: oneworldentertainment.com.au
Kryal Castle
121 Forbes Rd, Leigh Creek
SUN 30 APR 5:30pm
MELBOURNE INTERNATIONAL COMEDY FESTIVAL ROADSHOW
A stellar line-up with Roadshow favourites + breakthrough stars of the moment. Tix: humanitix.com
Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute
117 Sturt St
5 - 7 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
19 - 20 MAY
BUNINYONG FILM FESTIVAL
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
• 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)
19 - 28 MAY
BALLARAT HERITAGE FESTIVAL
Celebrating a city rich with history, & culture. Expect thought-provoking art, interactive encounters, captivating heritage moments and delectable food & drink experiences. Info: ballaratheritagefestival.com.au
SAT 20 MAY 12pm
VICTORIAN PINUP PAGEANT
A celebration of Pinups in a performance-based presentation where entrants can achieve their personal best. Tix: hermaj.com
Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute
117 Sturt St
20 - 28 MAY
CRAFT LAB 23
Over two weekends, a selection of the finest makers from Ballarat and surrounds. Heritage trades, fine arts, traditional practices, cultural rituals & contemporary practice combined. Ballarat Mining Exchange
12 Lydiard St Nth
STOCKADE
Ballarat Library at Town Hall is open, offering the library services you love right in the heart of town.
Browse the collection, collect holds, access public computers, attend a technology or children’s program and more.
You will find us next to the Visitor Information Centre on the ground floor. Entry is via Bath Lane.
Ballarat Library at Doveton Street is closed for renovations.
225 Sturt Street, Ballarat Central Visit the library...
Monday - Friday 9am-5pm | Saturday 10am-4pm | Sunday 1-4pm
FIRST SATURDAY EACH MONTH BRIDGE MALL • BALLARAT
thebridgemarket.com.au
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.
BARKLY SQUARE GLOBAL MARKET
FRI 24 MAR 3 – 8pm
Barkly Square, 25-39 Barkly St
THE BRIDGE MARKET
1ST SAT OF THE MONTH 9am – 1pm Bridge Mall, Ballarat
BALLARAT MARKET
SUNDAYS 8am – 12:30pm
Ballarat Showgrounds, Cnr Creswick Rd & Howitt St
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 10am – 2pm
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
96 Inglis St, Ballan (39km from Ballarat)
DAYLESFORD SUNDAY MARKET
SUNDAYS 8am – 3pm
18 Raglan St, Daylesford (45km from Ballarat)
TALBOT FARMERS MARKET
3RD SUN OF THE MONTH 9am – 1pm
Scandinavian Cres, Talbot (52km from Ballarat)