BALLARAT magazine Vol 3 April 2026

Nintendo and Pokémon. But make it art.

Unwin(e)d in the Pyrenees / Nature slightly beyond your fingertips Beyond Ballarat / WIN a getaway & much more

Acknowledgement of Country

Across Victoria’s Midwest, we acknowledge that we travel across the ancient landscapes of many First Peoples communities.

These lands have been nurtured and cared for over tens of thousands of years and we respect the work of Traditional Custodians for their ongoing care and protection.

We recognise the past injustices against Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples in this country. As our knowledge grows, we hope that we can learn from their resilience and creativity that has guided them for over 60,000 years.

As we invite people to visit and explore Victoria’s Midwest, we ask that alongside us, you also grow to respect the stories, living culture and connection to Country of the Ancestors and Elders of our First Peoples.

Think again.

Ballarat hums, crackles, sparks. Creativity spills from every corner. It’s where heritage meets now in the best possible way – colliding, mingling and often dazzling you with a brilliantly unexpected moment you never saw coming.

Taste the next viral sensation during Ballarat’s Best Pie, sip on the magic created by Pyrenees winemakers or discover traditional cooking techniques that have stood the test of time.

Dive into bold, unexpected collaborations where artists collide and your senses come alive in the most surprising ways.

Meander beyond Ballarat and uncover magical moments in nature, historical wonders and feel the country town charm that makes venturing out of the city so special.

And that’s just the start of the story. There’s a whole lot more waiting to inspire, surprise and spark your curiosity – we promise! And all just a short drive or train ride from Melbourne.

a two-night Ballarat getaway. See page 19 or scan the QR code.

Nintendo and Pokémon. But make it art.

Who said craft was only about knitting Grandpa’s sweater? Ballarat Craft + Design Week (BCDW) is turning that myth on its head and putting you at the centre of it.

Taking over the city from 1-10 May, it promises to be a whirlwind of creativity, collaboration and, yes, a lot of beautifully designed and crafted artworks. It’s the result of a six-monthlong creative journey and what better way to celebrate than with Ballarat’s dynamic art community?

Bound by creativity

For the inaugural BCDW, the event’s theme, Bound, focuses on the collaborative spirit of the craft and design world. With an emphasis on textiles, memory and restorative practices, it’s the perfect backdrop for showcasing some of the most innovative design the city has seen. Whether you’re into sustainability, craftsmanship or simply love tactile art, BCDW is for you. And we’re not just talking about exhibitions – this is an interactive extravaganza. Think of it as a mix of museum, marketplace and workshop.

A crafty dream team

BCDW isn’t just about showcasing individual talent – it’s all about the collaboration. Local artists and designers have been paired – or, in one case, triod (definitely a real word that we didn’t make up!) – to create incredible works that respond to the themes of textile, memory and cultural connection. These aren’t just people throwing things together. This is carefully crafted synergy.

Take, for instance, Spencer Harrison and Nick Doran Adams, two local artists who are merging 1980s pop culture nostalgia with innovative glass artistry. Who knew Nintendo and Pokémon could look so good in glass?!

Or how about Jude Ng, the champion of gender-neutral tailoring, joining forces with Dearne Mills, the master of transforming discarded materials into jewellery? Together, they’re proving that zero-waste definitely doesn’t mean zero style.

Five collaborations, one unforgettable experience

The hero of BCDW is (don’t say immersive, don’t say immersive!) umm… an immersive exhibition in the iconic Ballarat Mining Exchange

Expect to be blown away by five unique projects, each taking visitors on a sensory journey. The exhibition won’t just be for looking at – it’s meant to be explored. You’ll touch, feel, engage and maybe even learn something new. Some works are ephemeral, while others will live on and become an ongoing part of the cultural landscape. These projects are not only about celebrating what’s now – they’re about the future of craft and design.

And there’s more – get ready for hands-on workshops, inspiring talks and experiences that dive deep into the creative process. BCDW is where learning about art becomes

as fun as making it. Whether you’re keen to roll up your sleeves and try a new skill or just enjoy watching the magic unfold, there’s something for everyone.

Plus, you can grab a little something as you exit via the Made of: Ballarat gift shop. Go on. You deserve it!

Why Ballarat?

If you didn’t know, Ballarat is a UNESCO Creative City of Craft and Folk Art. That’s right: Ballarat isn’t just the gold rush town you remember from school excursions – it’s a buzzing hub for craft and design that’s attracting global attention. BCDW highlights everything that makes the city an international beacon for creativity: sustainability, innovation and cultural exchange. So, what can visitors expect? An unmissable celebration of creativity and craftsmanship, sure, but also an exciting glimpse into the future of design. We’re talking about everything from wearable art to glass sculptures and textile-based installations. It’s a true testament to what happens when talent comes together to create something extraordinary.

Mark your calendar

BCDW runs from May 1-10. Clear your schedule. Trust us, you won’t want to miss it!

Get your hands dirty (metaphorically, of course!) and join us for a week of stunning innovation, skill-sharing and some good ol’ fashioned Ballarat charm.

Unwin(e)d in the Pyrenees

As the weather starts to cool, make a bold choice and take a journey to a little-known wonder on Ballarat’s doorstep – the Pyrenees wine region.

A playground of lush landscapes, vibrant local culture and, of course, world-class wine, the Pyrenees is the perfect place to indulge in a day full of exploration, relaxation and unforgettable experiences.

Just over 30 minutes from Ballarat, you’ll hit the region when you arrive at Waubra’s Wayward Winery. Set atop a dormant volcano, it offers stunning vineyard views, exceptional wines and mouthwatering dishes. Celebrate local produce cooked in a woodfired oven and over a flaming Argentinian grill. Fitting given the volcanic location!

If stretching your legs is on your must-do list, a visit to Mount Cole’s iconic Ben Nevis Lookout will sort you out. From here, the panoramic views of the surrounding Pyrenees region will

take your breath away. As you stand high above the rolling hills, you might even catch a glimpse of a wedge-tailed eagle soaring overhead – a truly majestic sight.

After soaking in some natural beauty, it’s time to taste the region. Nestled near the village of Moonambel, Dalwhinnie Wines is regarded as one of Victoria’s top wine producers, combining fantastic wines with jaw-dropping scenery. Whether you’re into bold reds or crisp whites, their selection won’t disappoint. And it would probably be rude to not sample one of their cheese boards – they’re practically calling your name! Sip, snack and take in the landscape as you learn all about the winemaking process from the passionate folks behind the bottles and barrels.

Your day wouldn’t be complete without an unexpected twist, so head over to The Flywheel Bar and Cafe in Beaufort to check out Mrs Baker’s Still House’s brand-new cellar door (yes, the iconic wine region also features an award-winning distillery).

If you’ve ever wondered about the art of distilling, this is your chance to uncover it all, from homegrown botanicals to solar-powered distillation methods. Sip some craft spirits, nibble on (more) locally-inspired treats and get a taste of the more spirited side of the Pyrenees.

But we’re not done yet – after all that indulgence, it’s time to really kick back and unwind. Enter Unyoked at Warrenmang’s Peerick Winery. Tucked away in the rolling hills, your home for the night is a beautiful, ecofriendly cabin with stunning vineyard views. Whether you’re sipping a glass of wine on the deck or curling up inside with a good book, Unyoked is the perfect place to escape from it all and recharge after a day of exploring.

And before you call it a night, be sure to catch the sunset over the vines, perhaps with a glass of local wine in hand. After all, you’re in one of the most picturesque wine regions in Victoria –and there’s no better place to relax and reflect on a day full of unforgettable moments.

The Pyrenees is not just about wine – though, let’s be real, there’s a lot of that with over 25 cellar doors and counting! It’s also about discovering art, history and breathtaking nature, all while enjoying the good life.

From the vibrant Australian Barking Owl mural on the Avoca silo to Beaufort’s charming Cyril Callister Museum (which tells the story behind the local man who invented Vegemite), there’s always something new to discover.

So, pack your bags and make your way to the Pyrenees. You might even find yourself planning your next trip before you leave!

Discover more, beyond

Alice Zaslavsky: from MasterChef to mastering Ballarat

Award-winning author, broadcaster and taste-maker Alice Zaslavsky is known for bringing vibrancy and vitality to every plate through great produce and clever cooking.

Alice is the author of four internationally bestselling cookbooks, host of ABC TV show A Bite to Eat with Alice and columnist for Good Food and The Guardian. And this 23-24 May, she will headline Sovereign Hill’s Heritage Harvest Weekend, part of the annual Ballarat Heritage Festival

When did you realise food could be your career, not just a passion?

A lot later than you’d think! I went on MasterChef Australia at the end of 2011 (can you believe that’s 15 years ago!?), fully expecting to return to my work as deputy head of humanities in a Melbourne school. I just wanted my students to see me on TV to encourage them to do the food & culture elective I’d planned to run for Year 8s. It was only when I returned to visit my students (once I came off the show) and they were all enraptured that ALICE FROM MASTERCHEF was at their school that I realised I had been afforded a platform to take my food & culture elective much broader than just 20 students at a time!

Who or what shaped your early approach to cooking and food?

I come from a family who talk about dinner over breakfast, so I was always going to be a foodie! My grandfather was a keen kitchen gardener – he even grew his own grapes to make wine at home in Georgia. And everybody cooked! I was always pottering around the kitchen, picking herbs and sneaking snacks. So, I suppose it was a very natural progression from eater to cook!

Is there a dish that changed the way you think about food?

I had an incredible salt-baked whole fish dish when I was a teenager who’d accidentally been sent to a very expensive restaurant in Portugal! My parents were at a conference dinner and the riff-raff family members all went to this place on the water instead – not realising it was actually a very ritzy, very happening place. This fish, which was served table-side, was so exquisitely simple yet so perfectly cooked that I was… hooked!

What surprising snack do you secretly love?

I’m obsessed with toasted sunflower seeds!! I’ll toast them in-shell and sit and crack and crunch them like a bird when I’m reading a book. That’s my idea of heaven!

What Ballarat spots or flavours have stayed with you from past visits?

I absolutely LOVE Babae at Hotel Vera – I can’t wait to taste more of Roy Rosenfeld’s food when I visit! I love how he’s brought all his international fine-dining experience for the most refined restaurant experience. I’ll also be making a beeline for brunch in Black Cat Truffles’ beautiful garden. Liam Downes is such a character and he’s created something really special there. Common Ground is terrif for coffee and pretty café meals too. And, of course, I’ll be visiting the brilliant Collins Booksellers in Lydiard St to sign my books, which they always have plenty of.

What’s something unexpected about Ballarat you love telling people?

Our tiny daughter got to hold a HUGE anaconda at the Ballarat Wildlife Park and she’s still telling people about it!

What drew you to Sovereign Hill’s Heritage Harvest Weekend?

I’ve been hearing all about the Heritage Harvest Weekend on my breakfast radio show for the past few years and been feeling increasing FOMO (fear of missing out) so how could I resist the invitation!? I love how it brings together the region’s best artisans, makers, growers and chefs to give the community –and visitors – a truly unforgettable weekend of inspiration and connection.

How do traditional techniques and seasonal growing align with your food philosophy?

Any foodie will tell you that seasonal growing and eating is the best way to get the most out of every meal – from both a flavour and nutrition perspective! Getting back to basics, appreciating how easy it is to make your own butter, to use what you’ve got, to get your hands in the dough and the soil is what everybody could use more of in this busy world.

What do you hope visitors take away from your Heritage Harvest Weekend sessions?

My hope is that visitors come away with cooking inspiration from my dish but also feeling inspired to think a little more creatively in the kitchen more broadly. I want to give them the kind of hacks and tips and tricks that they’d expect from seeing my TV show, along with some seasonal flavours that will be solid gold as the weather cools.

Sovereign Hill’s Heritage Harvest Weekend runs 23-24 May and is part of the annual Ballarat Heritage Festival.

7 unexpected Ballarat foodie moments

From farm to fork and farmers’ markets to fine dining, there’s a story behind every bite in Ballarat.

Black Cat Truffles

150 Howards Rd, Wattle Flat (just 15 minutes from Ballarat)

Smell that?! We call it Eau de Black Cat Truffles – an alluring blend of freshly-foraged truffles and culinary delights.

Every summer and winter, join the hunt to unearth these black diamonds at the 20-acre Ballarat truffière (which featured on MasterChef Australia in 2024!).

And all year round, savour the unique, earthy notes with a truffle-infused degustation lunch or casual brunch.

Pancho

213 Mair St, Ballarat Peru? Columbia? Nope – Ballarat!

They’re dishing up the real deal at Latin American bar and eatery Pancho

Born in Spain and raised in Venezuela, owner and chef Jose Fernandez knows how to pack a punch with his hearty homeland flavours.

Think tacos, tamales, tequila, tostadas and more!

PS. Keep the good times going at Pancho’s sister restaurant, the Spanish tapas bar Meigas, which is just around the corner in Armstrong St Nth.

Naomi & i 449 Doveton St Nth, Ballarat

For a small space, Naomi & i packs a massive punch.

The unique concept store sells a delectable range of gorgeous cakes, cookies, coffee and drinks.

On the menu at this takeaway-only pit stop is A+ Coffee Roasters seasonal blends, Tea Co brewed teas and an ever-changing roster of specialty drinks including strawberry matcha, Turkish delight spiders and lavender lemonade spiders.

Naomi & i was also home to the winner of Ballarat’s Best Pie 2025 – the viral sensation that was Mrs Browne Bakes’ raspberry goldfields cookie pie.

Grainery Lane

35 Armstrong St Nth, Ballarat

It’s high tea but not as you know it. Grainery Lane’s G&Tea is the kind of Sunday sesh you can take your Mum or Nan too.

Put your pinkies up for free-flowing gin teapot cocktails served in dainty tea cups and paired with delectable bites.

Sip spirits meticulously crafted to evoke flavours of the 1900’s while celebrating local grains, herbs, berries and botanicals.

The lavish CBD distillery and cocktail bar exudes the charm and elegance of a bygone era, with its rich mahogany furnishings and vintage decor. Think Peaky Blinders meets The Great Gatsby

Underbar

3 Doveton St Nth, Ballarat

Looking for Michelin-style eats on the Ballarat streets? Stop looking and start booking at Underbar

With skills honed at New York’s three Michelinstarred restaurant Per Se under chefs Thomas Keller and Eli Kaimeh, chef Derek Boath focuses on using high-quality local ingredients, forming partnerships with local purveyors and producers to showcase these regional gems. And, naturally, Underbar has consistently been recognised by The Age Good Food Guide, currently holding one chef’s hat.

Plus, with a name inspired by the Swedish word meaning delectable, divine, gorgeous, great, lovely, marvellous and wonderful, how can you go wrong?!

The Shared Table

317 Learmonth St, Buninyong

From farm to fork, Ballarat style.

Food doesn’t get much more local than at The Shared Table, where the seasonal menu is a celebration of what’s fresh and available.

Owner and chef Dianne Ray champions local producers, farmers and suppliers to bring the best regional ingredients to your plate with flair.

From preserving and pickling to baking and fermenting, The Shared Table honours every ingredient’s journey — making sure each plate tells a story of season, place and purpose.

Ballarat Farmers’ Market

North Gardens Reserve, Lake Wendouree

Want a one-stop shop for all of our best local produce?

The Ballarat Farmers’ Market is the answer to your prayers!

The city’s biggest farmers’ market is held on the second and fourth Saturday of each month at North Gardens Reserve from 9am-1pm.

Some of our faves to look out for include:

• Flying Chillies’ Malaysian and Indonesian street food

• Wedgetail Farmstead’s handmade goats’ cheese

• Kilderkin Distillery’s artisan spirits

• Mrs Browne Bakes’ pimped-up cookies and sweet treats

Nature slightly beyond your fingertips

When you hear ‘Ballarat’, you might picture Sovereign Hill and old-timey gold rush vibes. But beyond the historical landmarks lies a world of wild beauty just waiting to be explored. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist, a hiking enthusiast or someone who just wants to enjoy a quiet picnic, the landscapes around Ballarat are bursting with opportunities to get outdoors and get moving.

Lake Wendouree: Ballarat’s water wonderland

Just a stone’s throw from the CBD, Lake Wendouree is where locals go to play. This 238-hectare beauty is a haven for sailing, rowing and picnicking. The 6km Steve Moneghetti Track wraps around the lake, making it the perfect spot for a stroll jog or cycle. Keep an eye out for the resident wildlife – black swans, rakali (native water rats), cormorants and even the elusive Cape Barren goose may make an appearance.

The Djuwang Baring mountain bike trails in Creswick

Looking for something a little more adrenalinepumping? Head to the Djuwang Baring mountain bike trails in Creswick. With 60km of twists, turns and forest views, these trails cater to all levels – from beginners to thrill-seekers. Just 20 minutes from Ballarat, the tracks weave through the stunning cultural lands of the Dja Dja Wurrung people. Plus, around 30% of the trails are specially designed for adaptive mountain biking, so everyone’s welcome to ride!

La Gerche: Creswick’s hiking haven

For those who like to take things at a slower pace, La Gerche Forest Walk in Creswick is the place to be. This hidden treasure is the perfect spot for wandering through peaceful forests and rocky terrain. With its serene vibe and spectacular views, La Gerche is your ticket to total tranquility. Whether you’re after a quick wander or an all-day adventure, you’ll feel like you’re miles away from the hustle and bustle.

Admire the majestic Lal Lal Falls

Lal Lal Falls – it’s the kind of waterfall that makes you stop and stare. With a jaw-dropping 34-metre drop, it’s one of Victoria’s most iconic natural wonders. But it’s not just a pretty face – the falls hold significant cultural importance for the region’s First Nations people. It’s a must-see, a picture-perfect spot that’ll make you feel small in the best possible way.

Goldfields Track: Where history meets nature

And if you’re really looking to earn those outdoor adventure bragging rights, the Goldfields Track is calling your name. This 210km stretch links Ballarat, Creswick, Daylesford, Castlemaine and Bendigo, combining history, culture and nature into one epic journey. Whether you’re hiking, cycling or just soaking in the sights, this is the ultimate way to discover the beauty (and history) of the region.

So, whether you’re after a heart-pumping bike ride or a lazy picnic by the lake, Ballarat’s outdoor playground is all yours to explore. Time to lace up those shoes, grab the sunscreen and get outside!

What’s on

There’s always something happening in Ballarat. From dazzling lights and knights wielding flaming swords to wintry delights and iconic performances, there’s plenty of reasons to lock in a Ballarat vacay.

Pyrenees Pop-Up Cellar Door –Makers Series

The Pyrenees wine region has come to Ballarat at the Pyrenees Pop-Up Cellar Door at The George Hotel. Don’t miss your chance to mingle with the people behind the barrels at the Makers Series (1, 8 & 15 May)

Obsidian Dark Beer Festival

Explore complex dark beer styles as the Obsidian Dark Beer Festival returns for its third year. The unforgettable event is a gathering place for established and emerging breweries in the heart of Ballarat. 19-20 June

Winter Wonderlights at Sovereign Hill

Sovereign Hill dazzles once more as Winter Wonderlights shines bright during the Ballarat Winter Festival. By day, soak up the classic gold rush experiences – ride a coach, try your luck panning for gold and explore the township. As night descends, the streets shimmer to life with spectacular light projections, music and a truly magical winter glow. 26 June-19 July

Ballarat Winter Festival

Winter is a whole lot wonderful in Ballarat and there’s no better way to experience it than at the Ballarat Winter Festival. Glide into the heart of the festival at the pop-up ice-skating rink, taste your way around the Hot Chocolate Trail, be dazzled by Winter Wonderlights at Sovereign Hill, be immersed in a medieval winter with Kryal Castle’s Knights of Fire (including literal flaming swords) and much more! 27 June-19 July

High

Tea on Cuthbert’s 939 Vintage Tram

All aboard for the Cuthbert’s 939 High Tea! Step back in time aboard this beautifully restored 1940s tram for an afternoon of sweet and savoury delights at Lake Wendouree. Various Sundays throughout the year

The Doll Trilogy at Her Majesty’s Theatre

Attention theatre lovers – you don’t want to miss this. In a regional Victorian exclusive, Ballarat’s Her Majesty’s Theatre is proud to present The Doll Trilogy, beautifully realised by Red Stitch. Lauded as a defining monument of 20th-century Australian theatre, Ray Lawler’s The Doll Trilogy charts the transformation of a nation through the intimate lives of Roo, Barney, Olive, Nancy and those around them. Presented in three parts, the Ballarat run includes an opportunity to see all three in the same day. 18-21 June

Meander a market or two

Ours is a region of makers, growers, artisans and artists, and every weekend sees a market or two pop up for you to explore and enjoy. Browse arts and crafts, vintage clothing and memorabilia; sample artisanal eats and farm-fresh produce; or chat to local sellers and craftspeople. Every weekend

Poco Film Fest

This biennial short film festival is back in Ballarat in 2026. Poco brings the best of Australian filmmaking to regional Victoria, culminating in live screenings and award presentations for Best Short, Jury Prize and Best Student Film. 1 August

World Press Photo exhibition at the Ballarat Mining Exchange

The Art Gallery of Ballarat will host the World Press Photo exhibition at Ballarat’s historic Mining Exchange. The annual World Press Photo Contest recognises and celebrates the best photojournalism and documentary photography produced over the last year. 8 August–20 September

See more of what’s on in and around Ballarat

Five ways to do the Ballarat Heritage Festival

Every year, Ballarat comes alive for the Ballarat Heritage Festival. A celebration of the city’s history, community and architecture, the 21-24 May festival is renowned for bringing the past to life in unexpected ways. Don’t miss it!

Explore the festival’s newest exhibition

Prepare to step back in time with Hidden Histories: Shared Together. This exciting new exhibition will transform the Ballarat Mining Exchange into a space dedicated to the city’s layered past. The showstopper? A huge replica of Ballarat’s 1901 Chinese Arch, celebrating the pivotal role of Chinese communities during the gold rush. Plus, a dedicated First Nations space will share the vibrant culture and stories of the Wadawurrung people, the Traditional Owners of our land.

Enter the Beard and Stache Competition

Time to show off that well-groomed ‘stache or beard! The annual Ballarat Beard and Stache Competition returns for 2026 at Hop Temple on Saturday 23 May . If you’ve been tending to your whiskers for months (or years), this is your chance to snag the crown of the best dressed face in town!

Take a steam train ride

Hop aboard the Steamrail Victoria vintage train for a scenic ride between Ballarat and Yendon and return. This charming trip through the countryside is a delightful blast from the past. Whether you’re a history buff, a family looking for adventure or just someone who loves a good train ride, this nostalgic journey is one you won’t want to miss.

Experience a feast of local flavours at Sovereign Hill

Sovereign Hill’s Heritage Harvest Weekend is a feast for the senses! Stroll through the Harvest Village packed with local produce, gourmet treats and homemade goodies. Kids can get crafty with hands-on sessions, while live demos from famous foodies, including headliner Alice Zaslavsky, will showcase old-timey skills. It’s food, fun and history – all in one!

Enjoy returning festival favourites

Some old friends are back! The ever-popular Ballarat Old Gaol tours, vintage car show and Ballarat Antiques Fair are returning to keep the heritage vibes rolling. These festival classics never fail to entertain, so be sure to catch them while you’re in town!

Scan for more Heritage Festival fun!

A brilliantly unexpected world awaits beyond Ballarat

Past the bustling historic streets of Ballarat lies a treasure trove of adventures waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re into hiking, cycling, creative pursuits or just soaking in the local charm, there’s always something to marvel at.

Relax, ride and recharge in historic Hepburn

The Hepburn region is renowned for its historic townships, great hospitality and natural beauty. The area is perfect for a getaway or excursion from your Ballarat base.

Start with a visit to the quaint town of Creswick, where you’ll be greeted by Le Peche Gourmand, a French patisserie offering fresh bread and pastries. The bakery sources ingredients locally, including from Brooklands Free Range Farms, Salt Kitchen Charcuterie, Tuki, Buninyong Blueberry Farm and Southern Light Herbs, bringing the essence of the region to every bite.

Then it’s time to get your nature on – whether it’s meandering the La Gerche Forest Walk or some two-wheel action on the Djuwang Baring mountain bike trails – your adventure cup will be well and truly filled.

After working up an appetite, head over to the aforementioned Tuki in Smeaton, where seasonal menus showcase the best of local produce and you can even enjoy a serene trout pond-to-plate dining experience.

Tucked on the picturesque banks of Birch’s Creek in Smeaton, Anderson’s Mill is a stunning blast from the past. Once a flour mill, this five-storey bluestone beauty stands as a tribute to the thriving industry that boomed after the 1850s gold rush. Over 100 years later, it’s still standing tall, pretty much unchanged, in the heart of an area known for its rich volcanic soils and gold mining heritage. The annual National Trust Anderson’s Mill Heritage Weekend (9-10 May) is the perfect time for a visit.

Round off your trip with a stop at Creswick Woollen Mills, Australia’s last coloured wool spinning mill. Browse through a variety of locally made woolly apparel and homewares. And you might even get to pat an alpaca!

Golden times in Golden Plains

While today’s Golden Plains is known for its lively music festivals and natural wonders, the region is steeped in gold rush history. The landscape tells the story of days gone by and one of the best ways to experience it is on the Ballarat-Skipton Rail Trail. This 53km stretch takes you through native grasslands, past historical sites and offers a particularly scenic view of Nimons Bridge, one of the trail’s standout features.

But it’s not just marvels of nature that make the region shine. Another must-visit is Ross Creek Gallery, the passion project of local ceramics queen Ruby Pilven and her mother, fellow artist Janine Ronaldson. With a wealth of experience in the arts, the dynamic duo opened the gallery – which sits beside Ruby’s studio – to support and showcase local talent, from emerging to established artists. The gallery proudly displays a range of works, including pieces by Ruby and Janine, along with rotating exhibitions from other talented local artists.

New to the region is the Meredith Farm Produce Store and Café, which is paddock-to-plate with personality. Shelves are stacked with cheese, yoghurt and capretto – all raised and made on the Meredith Dairy farm. Stay for coffee, flaky pastries, hearty plates and a cheeky wine. It’s farm fresh, feel good and just a little bit indulgent.

Moorabool’s magic moments

For something truly unique, head to the Moorabool region, which is known for its rich history and diverse landscapes.

Pick your own fruit right off the tree at Payne’s Orchard or embark on a medieval adventure at the iconic Kryal Castle when Legends of Steel (23-24 May) transforms the space into a battleground for the bravest knights and most skilled fighters. Or hike the rugged and beautiful trails of Werribee Gorge

Lal Lal Falls, a significant cultural landmark, is another must-see. It offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the beauty of the region, with this time of year being the best to see the falls at full force. Whether you’re a history buff or nature lover, Moorabool has a surprising mix of attractions that will keep you coming back for more.

Ballarat on a budget –fun without breaking the bank

Who says you need a hefty budget to enjoy a getaway? With a little creativity, Ballarat offers a whole lot of fun without putting a dent in your wallet. Here’s how to enjoy all the best bits of this charming city for less.

Getting here and around

Getting to Ballarat is super easy on a V/Line train! Once you’ve arrived, getting around is a breeze. Public buses will whisk you off to popular spots like Sovereign Hill, the Ballarat Wildlife Park, Eureka Centre, and the beautiful Botanical Gardens

20 things to do for $20 or less (or even FREE!)

1. Stroll through the stunning Ballarat Botanical Gardens and Robert Clark Conservatory – free entry!

2. Check out the free exhibitions at Backspace Gallery featuring local and up-and-coming artists.

3. Dive into the gold rush history at the Eureka Centre (free for Ballarat locals with ID).

4. Go on a nature adventure to Lal Lal Falls, Mount Buninyong, Woowookarung Regional Park or the Ballarat-Skipton Rail Trail

5. Take a ride on a vintage tram at the Ballarat Tramway Museum

6. Let loose and bounce around at Xtreme Bounce indoor play centre.

7. Discover Ballarat like never before on the Brilliantly Ballarat Walking Tour or go with a self-guided option.

8. Knock down some pins at Oz Tenpin Ballarat

9. Take a free tour of the Ballarat Town Hall (Tuesdays and Thursdays, 2pm) or check out the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute (Tuesdays, 2pm).

10. Visit during the Ballarat Winter Festival and get your skates on at the pop-up ice rink.

11. Cruise around Lake Wendouree on the Golden City Paddle Steamer (Sundays, November–April) or rent a pedal boat for some fun.

12. Try your hand at mini golf at Gold Rush Mini Golf

13. Get up close with native birds at Ballarat Bird World

14. Check out top playgrounds like Lake Wendouree Adventure Playground and Victoria Park Inclusive Play Space

15. Grab a G&T, vodka soda, spritz or cocktail at Itinerant Spirits –conveniently located in The Goods Shed right beside the Ballarat Train Station.

16. At Aunty Jacks, snap up a burger and pot for just $20 (Fridays, midday–4pm).

17. Make the most of the School’s Out happy hour at the Lake View Hotel (weekdays 3.30pm–5pm).

18. Get in on $20 pizza Thursdays at North Star Hotel or enjoy weekday happy hour specials.

19. Savour a $19.50 express lunch at Golden City Hotel (weekdays, 11am–5pm).

20. Grab a pimped-up sandwich at Pat’s Sandwiches, Cobb’s Coffee or Shep St Sandos

Who says you need to spend big for an unforgettable experience? Ballarat proves that a little goes a long way!

Feast on world-class eats, get up close (and we mean CLOSE) with cute critters, go on a spooky tour that’s a true crime lover’s dream then stay at an ultra luxe hotel in the heart of the city.

Sign up to our mailing list for your chance to win an incredible Ballarat adventure for two people.

The prize includes two nights of luxury accommodation, unexpected experiences, gastronomic delights and more!

Scan the QR code or head to visitballarat.com.au/about/competitions for your chance to win. Terms and conditions apply.

Swap traffic jams for trailblazing