Best of Ballarat - Winter 2024

BALLARAT

find eat shop events art music

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

EAT & DRINK

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

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

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

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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

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.

Roy Hammond welcomes you to a place where stories are plenty and memories are made. Be inspired by our spirit shelves, tailored cocktails and asian inspired street food. www.royhammond.com.au

Aunty Jacks is an eclectic brewpub created from repurposed materials where the 1950’s meets steampunk. Hidden behind doors is a multi-level brewery, a place to be enjoyed with family and friends.

We brew our award winning beer on site where we serve signature dishes inspired by the classics.

Follow the umbrellas down Hop Lane on Armstrong Street North to discover a place to eat, drink, socialise and explore 200+ craft beers.

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. (03) 5303 0733 | info@grainerylane.com.au 35 Armstrong St N, Ballarat Central VIC 3350 www.grainerylane.com.au

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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.

Ross Creek Gallery

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

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.

27 Sturt St 5332 9297

sweetfern.com.au

Hattie and the Wolf

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 – Sat 11am – 4pm.

The Shed on Mair

37 Mair St 0402 032 088 rocketandbelle.com.au

Rocket and Belle

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Sweet Fern

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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

Raintree Art

Saturday

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39 Map1D5

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Bring the taste of Australia to your table. Ignite your senses and spark an Australian foodie adventure to enjoy in your own home. We offer a premium range of Australian cooking ingredients, art, bushfoods and condiments. Visit website for events & hours.

110 Urquhart St 0499 328 076 saltbushkitchen.com.au

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

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 only Komodo Dragons, Tassie devils, snakes, penguins, our Siberian/Sumatran tigers and much more...

OPEN 7 DAYS 9am - 5pm

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 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

EUREKA CENTRE BALLARAT

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

George Browning

Eureka Stockade, 1854 (detail)

Eureka Centre Ballarat

The Cyril Callister Museum celebrates all things Vegemite! Discover the man who invented this famous Aussie icon and enjoy a wide range of Vegemite memorabilia and merchandise. Open Tue – Sun 10am - 2pm (book for groups).

23 Neil St, Beaufort 0414 082 754

cyrilcallisterfoundation.org

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.

L IGHTS WINTER

BALLARAT, VICTORIA

EXHIBITIONS EXHIBITIONS

UNTIL

2 JUN

NAN GOLDIN: THE BALLAD OF SEXUAL DEPENDENCY

Nan Goldin’s extended photographic study of her chosen family – her ‘tribe’ – began life as a slide show screened in the clubs and bars of New York where Goldin and her friends worked and played. We see her alongside her friends and lovers as they live their lives – hanging out, falling in and out of love, having children. But this is a community that would be decimated by HIV/AIDS and drug-related deaths. The Ballad has become as much a testament to how much Goldin and her community have lost, as it is a record of the look and feel of a past time.

Art Gallery of Ballarat 40 Lydiard St Nth

UNTIL 15 JUN

BALLARAT QUEER STORIES

A captivating art exhibition serving as a platform for those yearning to express themselves. Every stroke of a brush and every flick of a pen becomes a powerful voice, echoing the diverse experiences and stories of those who have longed to express themselves freely.

TBH Studio 57 Bridge Mall

UNTIL 29 JUN

BEAST

A contemporary group art exhibition featuring Peter Sparkman, Jackie Gorring, Diokno Pasilan, Frances Guerin, Stephen Beaumont and Linda Franklin.

Gallery 10 10 Bridge Mall

UNTIL 7 JUL

A LINDSAY MENAGERIE

Animals loomed large in the works of the famous Lindsay family of artists, Percy, Lionel, Norman, Ruby & Daryl. As children growing up in Creswick near Ballarat, the Lindsays were fascinated by a collection of birds including parrots, macaws and peacocks kept by a

neighbour and later, throughout their careers, each included birds and animals in their prints, drawings and paintings.

Art Gallery of Ballarat 40 Lydiard St Nth

UNTIL 7 JUL

BILL BUCKLEY: ORNAMENTS TO THE GODS

Ornaments to the gods features totems, icons and adornments for modern society to worship. Bill Buckley lives and works in Mount Doran, southeast of Ballarat. The nearby Bungal State Forest houses the remnants of a blast furnace and blacksmith workshops. These serve as reminder of the lasting impact on the environment by colonisation and have provided Buckley with inspiration for his first solo exhibition. A Backspace Gallery exhibition.

Art Gallery of Ballarat 40 Lydiard St Nth

UNTIL 29 JUL

JOAN ROSS: LET’S PARTY LIKE IT’S 1815

Joan Ross’s 2022 video work Let’s party like it’s 1815 is a critique on Australian colonisation. Ross sees Australian colonisation as ‘a car crash; in slow motion we watch the lack of regard and insensitivity– the long-drawn-out slide towards an inevitable crumpled heap. We saw it happening, but we couldn’t stop it, now it’s left for us to clean up.’

Art Screen - Art Gallery of Ballarat

Alfred Deakin Place (at rear of the Gallery)

UNTIL 11 AUG

BELINDA FOX: THE LIGHT CREPT IN

Belinda Fox is a Melbourne-based artist who works across printmaking, painting, drawing, glass and sculpture. Precious objects and intricate artworks serve as reminders to protect and pay attention to the natural environment which is suffering in a seemingly endless cycle of drought, flood, bushfire and other catastrophic weather events.

Art Gallery of Ballarat 40 Lydiard St Nth issuu.com/bestofballarat

15 JUN–22 SEPT 24

Ermas Taufik Plin Plan (Indecisive) 2013. synthetic polymer paint on polyester resin and fibreglass. The Konfir Kabo Collection. © the artist

UNTIL 1 SEP LOST IN PALM SPRINGS

Fourteen creative minds – including artists, photographers and thinkers from America and Australia – respond to, capture, or reimagine the magical qualities of the landscape and celebrated mid-century modern architecture found in the desert city. Connections between Palm Springs and Australia are remarkably strong, particularly when viewed through the lens of the current renaissance of interest in modernist architecture.

Art Gallery of Ballarat 40 Lydiard St Nth

UNTIL 15 SEP

FLOSSIE PEITSCH: APRONSTRINGS

Suspended blue aprons enclose and entangle the viewer as a metaphor for the selfless investment of heart and soul by women across time. This creates a space to reflect on the lives and struggles of women at Eureka and beyond. People are encouraged to add tags to the apron strings to honour the memory of historical women, but also to celebrate the lives of women of personal importance to them.

Eureka Centre Ballarat 102 Stawell St Sth

MAR - SEP

ARTIST IN RESIDENCE: ROSE HUDSON

Art Hub is hosting theatrical milliner Rose Hudson as Artist-in-Residence who is showcasing her traditional techniques in creating headwear.

Art Hub 10 Lydiard St Nth

1 - 14 JUN YELLOW DOT EXHIBITION

Presented by the Ballarat International Foto Biennale. A photography exhibition of works by Australian and international artists to raise funds for the 2025 Biennale. All works have been donated by the artists and will be available to purchase at the Yellow Dot Fundraiser on Fri 14 June 6pm - bookings essential: ballaratfoto.org Windflower 131 Sturt St (upstairs)

1 - 16 JUN

JAN ALEXANDER: SPACE BETWEEN MOVEMENT

Jan Alexander's debut solo exhibition delves into the intricate relationships between human actions and the interconnectedness of our world, using ceramic art to convey a delicate balance between motion and tranquility, encouraging viewers to find moments of reflection amidst the chaos of existence and the beauty of nature. Opening Sat 1 June, 1pm. Ross Creek Gallery 183 Post Office Rd, Smythes Creek

1 - 23 JUN

JADE WALSH: EMO-SHONE

An exhibition of diary paintings and textiles exploring emotions, humour and everyday life as a woman, artist and new mother. Jade’s visual diary pages, full of emotional experiences in sketches and words, have evolved into this exhibition of bright, humourous and truthful artworks. Opening Sat 1 June, 4pm.

Old Butchers Shop Gallery 112 Seymour St

1 - 30 JUN

QUEER VIEWS: NEW PERSPECTIVES ON THE COLLECTION

Experiencing art allows endless possible perspectives and narratives to be uncovered. In recent years, museums and galleries across the world have undertaken ‘queering’ projects to challenge hetero-normative narratives found in institutional spaces and to explore the multitude of ways that artworks and objects can be approached. Almost any artwork can tell a queer story, not necessarily through its provenance or creation, but through its interpretation.

Art Gallery of Ballarat 40 Lydiard St Nth

Jade Walsh Walking to Work 2024 (detail)

Sara Nash: DeSign

Art Hub: Rose Hudson

1 - 30 JUN

BALLARAT'S QUEER HISTORY

In association with the Australian Queer Archives. Come and see stories from Ballarat's LGBTIQA+ history, told through photographs, newspaper clippings & other ephemera, all on loan from the Australian Queer Archives (AQuA).

Ballarat Library 178 Doveton St Nth

3 JUN - 7 JUL

EXPRESSIONS

A collaboration of the Golden Plains Artists Collective, has resulted in a stunning and diverse array of artworks from both professional & emerging artists within the Shire. On display will be works by nationally & internationally acclaimed artists, as well as up and coming artists, who are members of GPARTSINC.

Mercure Ballarat 613 Main Rd

7 JUN - 7 JUL

SARAH STOCKDALE: MY BEAUTIFUL HOME

Discover scenes of Ballarat in this series of acrylic paintings by local emerging artist Sarah Stockdale.

Art Space Ballarat 14 Lydiard St Nth

7 JUN - 10 JUL

CHARLI TIMMS-MCLEAN: TRANSCENDING

Celebrating Pride month, Charli has created a series of artworks using humour to share the beauty of being transgender.

Unicorn Lane off 133 Sturt St (viewing 24/7)

8 - 16 JUN

FLORIBUNDA

The annual exhibition of the Crafts Council of Ballarat, featuring interesting and unique arts and crafts created by local artisans.

Opening Sat 8 June, 2pm.

The Conservatory Ballarat Botanical Gardens

15 - 30 JUN

RYNELLE WALKER: LIFE

Rynelle Walker is a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community. As an Aboriginal artist, she paints how she sees life today. The struggles that are around us and those that are within.

Opening Sat 15 June, 5pm.

4 Talbot St Sth

Dadang Christanto Silver

Ebb and Flow - Art Gallery of Ballarat

15 JUN - 22 SEP

EBB AND FLOW: CONTEMPORARY INDONESIAN SCULPTURE FROM THE KONFIR KABO COLLECTION

Indonesian art has had a tumultuous history, ebbing and flowing due to various internal and external forces and government and secular inhibiting interests. Featuring more than 40 contemporary sculptures, 22 Indonesian artists represent the new wave in this contemporary artform through highly sophisticated work engaged with deep ideas. Drawn from the collection of Indonesian Australian collector Konfir Kabo, this exhibition adds to the too recent history of understanding the diversity and abundance of talent our Indonesian neighbours bring to the cultural table.

Art Gallery of Ballarat 40 Lydiard St Nth

22 JUN - 6 JUL

RAINBOW COFFEE PORTRAITS

Cheryl Szöllősi is a local photographer and the powerhouse behind Rainbow Coffee and Uncoordinated Queers. Every week she takes stunning photos of the LGBTIQA+ folks & allies that come to Rainbow Coffee. This exhibition highlights some of those images and people. Sebastopol Library

181 Albert St, Sebastopol

Convict Tokens

Travelling exhibition from the National Museum of Australia

“When this you see remember me.”

Tuesday 16 July – Wednesday 21 August

Ballarat Library, 178 Doveton Street Ballarat

6 - 21 JUL

SEIKO HOASHI: PROLOGUE

Seiko Hoashi, a contemporary calligraphy artist, extends her exploration of literary elements and storytelling in her latest solo exhibition Prologue, following the thematic trajectory initiated in her previous exhibition Epigraph, showcased at Backspace in the Art Gallery of Ballarat in 2023. Opening Sat 6 July, 1pm.

Ross Creek Gallery

183 Post Office Rd, Smythes Creek

8 JUL - 11 AUG

THROUGH OUR EYES

Tress Street Studio artists have been guided by artist Katrina Jens for the last 20 years. They present an eclectic group of work and hope you enjoy it as much as they enjoy producing it.

Mercure Ballarat

613 Main Rd

11

JUL - 25 AUG

GEORGIA BIGGS: THE BENEFITS OF NOT KNOWING

Georgia Biggs works predominantly in abstract painting, using oil paint, wax, glue, collage and pastel to build complex, textural surfaces. Her paintings show layers of material applied and scraped back with sharp tools, becoming a tangible manifestation of the mind's journey. The action of adding and subtracting layers reflects the interplay between conscious thought and subconscious intuition.

A Backspace Gallery exhibition.

Art Gallery of Ballarat 40 Lydiard St Nth

12 JUL - 21 AUG

FED UNI ARTS ACADEMY: IMPRESSIONS – EXPLORATIONS IN PRINTMAKING

A selection of printmaking works created by Federation University Arts Academy Visual Arts students.

Unicorn Lane off 133 Sturt St (viewing 24/7)

13 JUL - 11 AUG

KELSIE WHITE, KARIMA BAADILLA & RACHEL TURNER: BLOW-INS

A collection of works by artists taking time to understand and capture the geographical spaces of their new home town and how they feel within it.

Art Space Ballarat 14 Lydiard St Nth

16 JUL - 21 AUG

CONVICT TOKENS

Convict tokens are a powerful link to Australia’s past representing an enduring connection between the convicts who made them and those they left behind. View this travelling exhibition from the National Museum of Australia at the Ballarat Library.

Ballarat Library 178 Doveton St Nth

20 JUL - 20 OCT

SASSY PARK: I HAVE CONFIDENCE IN SUNSHINE

Sassy Park plays with the history of domestic ceramics to explore ideas of vulnerability and fragility through scale, intimacy and humour. I have confidence in sunshine explores intertwined themes of gender, confidence and domestic spaces in response to the Lindsay family of artists from Creswick.

Art Gallery of Ballarat 40 Lydiard St Nth

3 - 18 AUG

SUE BRAIN: YOU'RE ONLY HERE ONCE

In Sue Brain's recent work, she immerses herself in everyday scenes of the rural landscape, finding beauty in the ordinary and capturing it through a blend of Plein Air & studio techniques, primarily employing oil and acrylic paints while occasionally incorporating mixed media. She aims to convey the ever-changing nature of farm scenery and feels a profound connection to the land, experiencing a sense of flow and contentment in the act of creation.

Opening Sat 3 August, 1pm.

Ross Creek Gallery

183 Post Office Rd, Smythes Creek

12 AUG - 15 SEP

TONY VAN ROEVAN: BLENDED PORTRAITS UNLEASH MASTERS

An exhibition of paintings exploring a blend of portraits with a twist on the Dutch Masters. Mercure Ballarat

613 Main Rd

24 AUG - 24 NOV

CLARICE BECKETT: PAINTINGS FROM THE NATIONAL COLLECTION

Deeply sensitive to the effects of colour, light and atmosphere, Beckett painted the life and scenery of her coastal home in south-east Naarm/Melbourne with an eye for the commonplace and fleeting effects of nature. Her work captures a world on the cusp of modernisation, evoking both the natural environment and simple pleasures of suburbia. In 1972, the artist’s sister Hilda Mangan donated a group of Beckett’s works to the National Gallery. This collection will be on view for the first time, their freshness and vitality recently restored by extensive conservation treatment.

Art Gallery of Ballarat 40 Lydiard St Nth

31 AUG - 13 OCT

DIOKNO PASILAN: IMPRINT

Imprints are the memories we hold onto which are always with us. Ballarat based artist Diokno Pasilan has created an installation examining memory in relation to belonging. Prints and sculptures evoke a feeling of nostalgia in the artist, as the materials he uses draws from his childhood memories of growing up in a boat-making community in the Philippines. Using found images from magazines and books from the 1930’s to the present, Pasilan prints onto wood using gel medium technique. Geometric and organic forms are layered to reflect the fluidity of memory and personal narrative.

A Backspace Gallery exhibition.

Art Gallery of Ballarat 40 Lydiard St Nth

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

FRI 21 JUN 8pm Bohemian Rhapsody

SAT 20 JUL 7:30pm Seven Drunken Nights

SUN 21 JUL 7pm Polaris

9 - 11 AUG BE_HEAR / NOW:

Aaliyah Bise, Coda Chroma, Dayfever, Surfe, ZÖJ

Details: creativeballarat.com.au/music

VOLTA

15 Field St • voltaballarat.com.au

FRI 7 JUN 9pm Round Up Country Club Night

SAT 15 JUN 8pm PEZ

THU 20 JUN 7:30pm SIX60

FRI 21 JUN 8pm Sidechella

SAT 22 JUN 7:30pm Dog Trumpet & The SnarskiCircusLindyBand

FRI 28 JUN 9pm Mamma Mia! Musical Party

SAT 29 JUN 9pm Tom Santa

FRI 5 JUL 8pm Hurricane: The Australian Luke Combs Cover Show

THU 11 JUL 7:30pm The Radiators

SAT 13 JUL 8pm REPUTATION: The Ultimate Taylor Swift Show

FRI 2 AUG 8pm Fall & Resist

SAT 17 AUG 7pm Telenova

RJMs WINE BAR

95 Mair St East • 4313 4949 rjmswinebar.com.au

SUN 2 JUN 1:30pm The Valentines

SUN 16 JUN 1:30pm Steve Plater

SUN 23 JUN 1:30pm Back Alley Sally

SUN 25 AUG 1:30pm Steve Plater & the Dirty Blues (Ballarat Blues Festival)

ART GALLERY OF BALLARAT

40 Lydiard St Nth • 5320 5858 artgalleryofballarat.com.au

SAT 15 JUN 6pm Bananagun

SAT 13 JUL 6pm Nice Biscuit

SAT 17 AUG 6pm Art Late - band TBA

PIANO BAR BALLARAT

31 Sturt St • 5229 4086 pianobar.com.au/ballarat

FRI & SAT NIGHTS 7pm Piano Bar by Request

THU NIGHTS 6pm Drag Bingo

WED 12 JUN 6pm Freddie Mercury Songbook

SAT 6 JUL 12:30 & 3:30pm Taylor Swift

Sing-a-long (all ages)

WED 17 JUL 6pm Taylor Swift Sing-a-long (18+)

SUN 4 AUG 1pm The Tina Turner Experience FRI 16 AUG 6pm BeeGees Revival Show

SAT 24 AUG 2:30pm Women in Blues Showcase: Anna Scionti, Andrea Marr Band, Rhiannon Simpson, Paula Maki

SUN 25 AUG 7pm Blues Festival After Party: Rod Paine & the Full Time Lovers, Jawn

FRI 30 AUG 6pm Taylor Swift Sing-a-long

HOP TEMPLE

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 JUN 9pm Untapped

SUN 2 JUN 1:30pm Mark Easton

SAT 8 JUN 9pm Three's A Crowd

SUN 9 JUN 1:30pm Shane Gilbert

SAT 15 JUN 9pm Travis McCarthy

SAT 22 JUN 9pm Bec & Marty

SAT 29 JUN 9pm Travis McCarthy

SUN 11 AUG 1:30pm Midnight Drive

SAT 17 AUG 9pm Untapped

SAT 24 AUG 1pm Aaron Pollock (Ballarat Blues Festival) 9pm Travis McCarthy

SUN 25 AUG 1:30pm Matt Katsis (Ballarat Blues Festival)

SAT 31 AUG 9pm Bec & Marty

THE EASTERN

81 Humffray St Nth • 0483 809 906 theeasternballarat.com

FRI 7 JUN 7pm The Maggie Pills

SAT 8 JUN 3pm Lettuce Fest Volume 3: MYSTERY, The Shadow Ministers, Nasal

AUSTRALIAN GLOBAL ENTERTAINMENT PRESENTS

AN AFTERNOON AT

WENDOUREE CENTRE

FOR PERFORMING ARTS

1220 Howitt St • 5338 0980 • wcpa.com.au

SAT 8 JUN 7:30pm The Joe Cocker Experience

MON 10 JUN 6pm The World of Musicals

THU 13 JUN 7:30pm One Night in Memphis

SAT 15 JUN 8pm Forever 80s

SAT 29 JUN 7:30pm Leaving Jackson

Johnny Cash & June Carter Show

SAT 6 JUL 8pm The Animals (UK) Farewell Tour

SAT 24 AUG 8pm Diana Ross - Queen Supreme

SUN 25 AUG 2:30pm

BALLARAT BLUES FESTIVAL: Nathan Cavaleri, Karise Eden, Geoff Achison, Jimi Hocking, Wilbur Wilde, The McNamarr Project, Kathleen Halloran Trio, Joe Creighton, Eddy Boyle, Shane Gilbert, Paula Maki

SAT 31 AUG 7:30pm Kate Miller-Heidke

AUNTY JACKS

315-317 Mair St • 5300 1407

auntyjacks.com.au

SAT 24 AUG 3pm Rhyley McGrath (Ballarat Blues Festival)

BALLARAT WELCOME CENTRE

25 Barkly St, Ballarat East

BOÎTE IN BALLARAT

SUN 16 JUN 2pm Hijazz Duo, Deborah N, A.O.Jay

SUN 23 JUN 2pm Makepisi, Ajak Kwai, Mini Hanzon Drums

SUN 30 JUN 2pm Saikat Bhattacharya, Raga Saga

STAGE STAGE

FRI 14 JUN 8pm

THE SUNSHINE CLUB

It’s the summer of 1946, and the war is over. Aboriginal soldier Frank Doyle has spent years fighting shoulder-to-shoulder with troops from all over Australia, but when he steps onto the Brisbane wharf he finds some things haven’t changed. Frank just wants a better life — the simple pleasures of music and laughter, a place where he can dance with Rose, the beautiful girl next door. Filled with hope and defiance, Frank sets up his own ballroom, The Sunshine Club, where everyone is invited to meet, mingle and sway the night away. Tix: hermaj.com

Civic Hall 300 Mair St

4 - 14 JUL

9 TO 5 THE MUSICAL

Presented by BLOC Music Theatre

Inspired by the hit film, this hilarious musical is about teaming up, standing up and taking care of business! 9 to 5 The Musical tells the story of Doralee, Violet and Judy – three workmates pushed to boiling point by their sexist, egotistical boss. Concocting a plan to kidnap and turn the tables on their despicable supervisor, will the ladies manage to reform their office – or will events unravel when the CEO pays an unexpected visit?

Tix: hermaj.com

Civic Hall 300 Mair St

5 - 14 JUL

A DATE WITH DEATH

Presented by Ballarat National Theatre

A smorgasbord of short plays and monologues that explore a theme that touches every single one of us. We’re offering 10 separate courses by local and international writers that touch on the joys of life, the crushing inevitability of our mortality, and the curiosity and absurdity of death. Featuring the one act play The Death of Ellen Moore, written & directed by Jon Amesbury, we are showcasing brutal comedies

to heart-breaking dramas and everything in between. The talents of our actors and directors will make you laugh until you cry and just, well... cry? Tix: hermaj.com

Open Door

106 Albert St, Sebastopol

FRI 19 JUL 11am & 1pm

GRUG

Presented by Windmill Theatre Co

Once the top of a Burrawang tree fell to the ground. Then the grassy top began to change. It became Grug! Stunning design and beautiful live puppetry combine to bring Ted Prior’s iconic picture book character to the stage in a smash-hit production that sees audiences join Grug on some of his most exciting adventures. Along with his friends Snoot the Echidna and the crabby Cara the Carpet Snake, audiences will step into Grug’s burrow and help him grow cabbages, learn to dance and explore his wondrous new world in a charming show designed for even the youngest theatregoers (and Grug fans of all ages).

Tix: hermaj.com

Civic Hall 300 Mair St

SUN 28 JUL 1pm

THE GRANDPARENTS CLUB

A comedy musical. Written by comedy legend Wendy Harmer with toe-tapping, sing-a-long music from John Field, this is a show that understands how truly Grand life can be! Join Lynne McGranger (Home and Away), Andrew James and Meredith O’Reilly in a whirl of stand up, send-up and song as they share their hearts, stories and mishaps over coffee … or was that a gin … in the famous Grandparents Club. Tix: wcpa.com.au

WCPA 1200 Howitt St, Wendouree

1 - 10 AUG

TITUS ANDRONICUS

Presented by The Bard in Buninyong

Join us for The Bard in Buninyong's first 18+ Dark Bard show Titus Andronicus. Set in a dark 80s nightclub, Titus has returned from a brutal 10-year war having lost 21 sons in battle. Betrayed by his nation, and with his family in pieces, a series of bloody events follows as he and Tamora, Queen of the Goths begin a violent cycle of revenge. Tix: trybooking.com

The Crypt 14 Camp St

SAT 3 AUG 7:30pm

CELTIC ILLUSION

A breathtaking array of experiences, fusing Irish dance, magic and influential flavours of Fosse & Michael Jackson with a Broadway style. Starring the multi talented former lead dancer of Michael Flatley’s Lord of the Dance and star illusionist Anthony Street, with Georgia May, a marvel in both dance and illusion. These impeccable performers lead a cast of champion dancers recruited from renowned productions across the world, such as Lord of the Dance and Riverdance, into a theatrical masterpiece that will have you mesmerised from the moment the curtain is raised. Tix: wcpa.com.au

WCPA 1200 Howitt St, Wendouree

22 -25 AUG

FESTIVAL OF AUSTRALIAN QUEER THEATRE

A ground-breaking event that is set to revolutionise the Australian theatre landscape, bringing together leading artists and thinkers from the queer theatre community. Featuring a diverse range of events including talks, panel discussions, script readings of classic queer Australian plays, open rehearsals of new works, and theatre masterclasses led by some of Australia's most influential queer theatre makers. From captivating theatrical works to panel discussions, this festival promises an array of experiences that will challenge what you think you know about LGBTIQA+ communities.

Info & tix: faqt.au

FRI 30 AUG 7:30pm

THE TAP PACK

Picking up where The Rat Pack left off, The Tap Pack conjures up a modern twist to the crooners and artists from the ‘50s through to the noughties! Featuring songs from Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Jr to Ed Sheeran, Michael Bublé and Beyoncé. The Tap Pack mix slick humour, high-energy entertainment, and world-class tap dance. A show of pure entertainment inspired by the legendary kings of swing, The Rat Pack, freshly created for the audience of today.

Tix: wcpa.com.au

WCPA 1200 Howitt St, Wendouree

MORE TO DO MORE TO DO

ONGOING

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

SAT 1 JUN

WHITE NIGHT

White Night will transform the streets and venues of Ballarat through illuminations, projections, music and interactive works.

Info: whitenight.com.au/ballarat

1 - 30 JUN

FESTIVAL

BALLARAT PRIDE MONTH

Join us for a celebration of LGBTIQA+ people with exhibitions, community art projects, indoor sports, coffees and catch ups, films, panels and Q&As and much more!

Info: ballaratpride.au

SUN 2 JUN 10am - 3pm

PRIDE MONTH MARKET

Art & craft stalls, trash & treasure and second hand goods stalls as well as the awesome Trans & Gender Diverse Clothing Swap, A Queer Little Library plus live music & face painting.

Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute 117 Sturt St

SAT 8 JUN 7:30pm

JIMEOIN: WHO’S YOUR MAN?!

With more facial expressions than a baby eating a lemon, don’t miss Jimeoin as he takes you on a journey that’ll have you none the wiser by the time he takes his final bow!

Tix: hermaj.com

Civic Hall 300 Mair St

22 JUN - 21 JUL

FROZEN KINGDOM

Immerse yourself in the magic of winter as Knights battle with fiery swords and horses jump over flames! Plus winter-inspired activities, crafts, and more. Tix: kryalcastle.com.au

Kryal Castle

121 Forbes Road, Leigh Creek

28 JUN - 21 JUL

WINTER WONDERLIGHTS

10 years shining! Enjoy ‘faux snow’ falls, much-loved theatre, food & activities. In the evening, light projections bring the famous streetscape to life in a spectacular display of colour & movement.

Tix: sovereignhill.com.au

Sovereign Hill

Bradshaw St, Golden Point

FESTIVAL

FESTIVAL MARKET

COMEDY

MARKET

Buninyong Village WINTER Market

BUNINYONG TOWN HALL

SATURDAY 27 JULY

1Pm to 5pm

Craft . Food . Art . Music facebook.com/buninyongvillagemarket

29 JUN - 21 JUL

BALLARAT WINTER FESTIVAL

Experience the sound, lights and wintry delights of Sovereign Hill’s Winter Wonderlights, watch a spectacular fire joust at Kryal Castle, enjoy the pop-up ice skating rink in the Ballarat CBD and much more! Info: ballaratwinterfestival.com.au

29 JUN - 21 JUL

ICE SKATING

Get your skates on and take to the ice with the return of the much-loved pop-up ice-skating rink this winter. Armstrong St Sth next to Town Hall

SAT 29 JUN 11am & 4pm

OBSIDIAN DARK BEER FESTIVAL

Celebrate the rich tapestry of dark beer styles. Enthusiasts and novices alike come together to explore the dark side of craft brewing. Tix: hullabalooevents.com.au

The Mining Exchange 8 Lydiard St Nth

FESTIVAL

6 - 7 JUL

DESIGN EXCHANGE MARKET

Discover creative designers & makers, artisan foods, talented musicians and a cosy, relaxed atmosphere. The Mining Exchange 8 Lydiard St Nth

SAT 27 JUL 1 – 5pm

BUNINYONG VILLAGE MARKET

Enjoy the quarterly Buninyong Village Market, with gorgeous craft, art and food stalls and much more.

Buninyong Town Hall 309 Learmonth St, Buninyong

2 - 3 AUG

POCO FILM FEST

Ballarat’s very own short film festival returns this August! Watch up to 15 amazing finalist films at Regent Cinema One and hear from leaders in the industry at the 'Poco TalksBehind The Lens' event.

Tix & info: pocofilmfest.com.au

SAT 3 AUG 7pm

COMEDY

EM RUSCIANO: OUTGROWN

A hilarious, searing and multi-sensory look at the beauty that can emerge, after everything has been burned to the ground. Tix: hermaj.com Civic Hall 300 Mair St

Ballarat Winter Festival Ice Skating

COMEDY

FRI 9 AUG 7pm

ROSS NOBLE: JIBBER JABBER JAMBOREE

Join Ross Noble for an evening of the sort of inspired nonsense that has cemented his place as the supreme master of stream of conscious freewheeling stand up.

Tix: hermaj.com

Civic Hall 300 Mair St

9 - 11 AUG

BE HEAR NOW

A live music festival showcasing local talent: Aaliyah Bise, Coda Chroma, Dayfever, Surfe, ZÖJ. Details: creativeballarat.com.au/music

Civic Hall 300 Mair St

17 - 18 AUG

HIGHLAND SPECTACULAR

Massed pipe bands, Highland dancing, Highland Games, Clan tents to find out about your ancestry & much more! Tix: kryalcastle.com.au

Kryal Castle 121 Forbes Road, Leigh Creek

22 - 25 AUG

FESTIVAL OF AUSTRALIAN QUEER THEATRE

A ground-breaking event that is set to revolutionise the Australian theatre landscape, bringing together leading artists and thinkers from the queer theatre community.

Info & tix: faqt.au

SAT 24 AUG

AFL FOOTBALL

Western Bulldogs v GWS Giants. Tix: ticketmaster.com.au

Mars Stadium Creswick Rd, Wendouree

24 - 25 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

issuu.com/bestofballarat

• 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)

MARKETS

1ST & 3RD SATURDAY OF THE MONTH BAKERY HILL • BALLARAT

Discover the very best fresh food and produce and buy direct from local farmers and producers. Join the slow food revolution and you’ll see why foodies only source their ingredients from local farmers markets.

BARKLY SQUARE GLOBAL MARKET

FRI 21 JUN 3:30 – 7:30pm Barkly Square, 25-39 Barkly St

THE BRIDGE MARKET

1ST & 3RD 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)

TALBOT FARMERS MARKET

3RD SUN OF THE MONTH 9am – 1pm Scandinavian Cres, Talbot (52km from Ballarat)