🙌 Big Wins for Ballarat Women

Good morning, Ballarat! Hope you’re all staying warm while making the most of the Winter Festival I’ve been living on hot choccies and wearing two pairs of socks this week just to survive the chilly mornings! Today’s edition is packed with stories, events, and little gems to make your week a bit warmer and brighter.

In today’s edition

• Ballarat’s first female plumbing graduates making history

• Where to find the best hot choc this winter (map included!)

• NAIDOC Week celebrations around town

• Bus disruptions today – plan ahead

• Raven Collective: hampers with heart

• Café of the week

• Events and gigs

- Luciano Devoto

FEATURE STORY

👷‍♀️ Fixing Pipes and Breaking Barriers

Ballarat just celebrated a milestone with Ebony Poole and Alyssa Lucas becoming Fed TAFE’s first-ever female plumbing graduates.

Ebony, a fourth-gen plumber from Derrinallum, switched from teaching to plumbing during COVID and loves the variety of jobs she gets out in the region. She’s keen to gain some urban experience next and get her licences. Alyssa jumped into her apprenticeship straight after Year 11, drawn to plumbing’s hands-on, ever-changing work (plus, she reckons plumbers are more organised than sparkies!). She dreams of running her own plumbing business one day.

Women now make up 3% of plumbing students, up from 1% just two years ago – and numbers are rising across other trades too, like cabinet-making, baking, engineering, and electrical. It’s so good to see more women stepping into these fields and changing what the industry looks like for the better.

WINTER FESTIVAL

☕ Where’s the Best Hot Choc in Ballarat? There’s a Map for That!

One of my favourite parts of the Ballarat Winter Festival is back! The Hot Chocolate Showdown kicked off last Saturday, with over 25 local cafes and venues serving up their specialty hot choccies for you to taste, vote on, and help crown Ballarat’s best.

🔎 Find Your Next Hot Choc Fix

To make your chocolate adventure easier, we’ve launched an interactive map showing every participating venue, plus details about their hot chocolate creation, price, address, and more.

When you open the map on your phone, it instantly shows you the closest spots based on your location, so you can get your hot choccie fix fast (and maybe discover a new favourite along the way).

Check out the interactive map here

If you find this little widget useful, please share it (and the newsletter) with your friends!

. . .

🚋 All Aboard Ballarat’s Night Tram (Hot Choc Included)

If you’ve ever wanted to soak up winter magic without turning into an icicle, the Ballarat Night Tram is your ticket.

These vintage trams, decked out in colourful lights, will be rolling through the Botanical Gardens on Fridays and Saturdays this July from 6pm to 9pm.

Each ride lasts about 30 minutes, and you’ll score a free hot chocolate to keep your hands (and heart) toasty while you cruise along. Plus, the Tramway Museum will be open after dark, so you can wander through and geek out on some local tram trivia while you’re there.

Tickets are selling fast, with some sessions already booked out – so don’t miss your chance to hop on board.

COMMUNITY DIGEST

🎨 Kids Wanted: Waste Truck Art Competition!

Our council is running a Waste Collection Vehicle Art Competition to celebrate the launch of its new FOGO and glass recycling services.

They’re calling on primary and secondary school students to create original artwork that inspires the community to use their bins correctly. It could show what goes in each bin, or remind us why sorting our waste properly really matters.

The prize: Two winning artworks will be featured on the sides of the city’s waste collection trucks, so your child’s message of sustainability will travel all over Ballarat!

Entries are open to all students living or studying in Ballarat. Submissions close Sunday, 24 August 2025.

👉 For templates and digital submission details head to the City of Ballarat website.

. . .

🚛 Waste Vouchers Expire Soon!

And while we’re on the topic of rubbish (and getting creative), just a reminder that if you’ve still got your City of Ballarat waste vouchers lying around, they’re set to expire on 30 July 2025.

I know how easy it is to leave these things until the last minute, but if you want to beat the end-of-July rush, it’s worth heading down to the Ballarat Transfer Station sooner rather than later. Plus, it’s a good excuse to do a winter clean-out before the month’s out.

You can use the vouchers for green waste and general household waste, but just keep in mind they don’t cover things like mattresses, soil, rocks, asbestos, tyres, or fridges and air conditioners.

. . .

🛑 Heads Up: Ballarat Bus Services Disrupted Today

Again?? Yep… another industrial action is set to disrupt bus services today (Thursday 10 July). The Department of Transport and Planning has advised that all routes across Ballarat will be affected.

If you’re catching the bus today, it’s worth planning ahead and lining up a backup option just in case.

👉 For the latest updates, check the Public Transport Victoria website.

. . .

🖤💛❤️ NAIDOC Week in Ballarat

This week is NAIDOC Week (7–14 July), a time to celebrate and recognise the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Ballarat kicked things off on Monday with a Flag Raising Ceremony at BADAC, followed by a community walk honouring Wadawurrung ancestor Frank “Mullawallah” Wilson.

This year’s theme is “Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud & Proud,” celebrating the strength, resilience, and ongoing cultures of First Nations communities.

Check out the events and ways to get involved on Ballarat’s First Nation’s website

CHARITY

💜 Hampers with Heart: Meet Raven Collective

This week, we’re shining a spotlight on Raven Collective, a remarkable Ballarat-based social enterprise helping women rebuild their lives after domestic and family violence.

Through their 10-week paid training and employment program, Raven Collective gives women practical work experience packing and distributing beautiful gift hampers, alongside essential skills training to build confidence and financial independence. Every hamper purchased directly supports their mission.

🎉 Dress Up, Dance and Do Good

Want to support Raven Collective in style? Grab your tickets to the upcoming Goldfields Health Collective Charity Ball, proudly backing Raven’s life-changing programs.

The night promises gourmet roaming bites, live entertainment, and exciting live and silent auctions. Plus, every dollar raised goes straight to helping local women gain the skills and confidence to thrive. But hurry, there are only 200 tickets available!

🗓️ When: Saturday, 2 August 2025
📍 Where: Ivory Pavilion, Buninyong
💃 Dress Code: Formal – get glammed up!
👉 Book your tickets here: Goldfields Health Collective Charity Ball

CAFE OF THE WEEK

🥪 Rouben, Coffee, and Garage Vibes

If you're craving a top-notch toastie, Little Square Garage at 81A Humffray Street North is the place to be.

This quirky garage-turned-cafe is known for its epic toasties, quality coffee, and sweet treats from Every Little Crumb. The space is cosy with an industrial vibe – one of those hidden gems Ballarat does so well. Pro tip: try their Rouben toastie – trust me, it’s a winner.

They’ve also got a mini shop section with creative and unique products. From local maker goodies and quirky homewares to things you won’t find in mainstream stores. Perfect if you’re after a thoughtful gift or just something a bit different for yourself or a friend.

🕒 Opening hours:
Mon–Fri: 7am – 2pm
Sat: 7am – 2pm
Sun: Closed

👉 Check them out on Insta: @littlesquareballarat

WHAT’S ON

🎭️ Happenings Around Town

Ballarat Winter Festival: Top Picks

See the complete program and events here

Winter Wonderlights | 10:00AM - 7:00PM, Until 27 July (Info)
Location: Sovereign Hill
Description: Sovereign Hill is transformed with light projections, faux snow, and festive treats for a magical winter experience.

Christmas in July at Hop Temple | 10-12 July (Info)
Location: Hop Temple
Description: A festive wonderland with fairy lights, live carols, snow, hot chocolate, mulled wine, and festive food specials.

Planet Lava | 11:00AM - 11:40AM & 6:00PM - 6:40PM, 10-12 July (Info)
Location: Ukiyo Tent
Description: An interactive and silly show with circus skills designed to empower an audience of very clever alien children.

The Doogans (Family & Grown-ups Edition) | 10-12 July (Info)
Location: Ukiyo Tent
Description: A tribute to classic vaudevillian greats with quirky improvised chitchat and phenomenal circus skills.

Doctor Hubble's Bubbles | 11:00AM - 11:40AM & 1:00PM - 1:40PM, 13 - 20 July (Info)
Location: Ukiyo Tent
Description: A funny and slightly educational journey into the world of bubbles, with the biggest bubbles you have ever seen.

Arts, Culture & Entertainment

Art Gallery of Ballarat Art Screen: Peter Waples-Crowe - Ngaya (I Am) | Until 1 August (FREE)
Location: Alfred Deakin Place
Description: An exhibition by Ngarigo artist Peter Waples-Crowe exploring the intersection of his First Nations and LGBTQI+ identity.

AURA Sound and Light Show at Sovereign Hill | 10 July (Info)
Location: Sovereign Hill
Description: A 90-minute, high-impact graphic presentation immersing you in the story of gold, transforming Sovereign Hill with hi-tech projections.

Andrew Hamilton - Jokes about the time I went to Prison | 7:30PM - 9:00PM, 11 July ($35 - $50)
Location: Ballarat Mechanics Institute
Description: Andrew Hamilton's debut solo show about his time in prison, which garnered him critical acclaim and a nomination for Best Newcomer.

Hurtigruten Scandinavian Film Festival 2025 | 11 July - 3 August (Info)
Location: Palace Regent Cinemas
Description: A superb lineup of the best new cinema from the Nordic region.

Beyond the City Limits - Ballarat Society of Artists Inc. Exhibition | 10:00AM - 3:00PM, 13 July (Info)
Location: Lake Wendouree Museum
Description: A bright, colourful, eclectic exhibition of artworks that move away from the Ballarat City to the countryside and beyond.

Window Art with Yuval Zommer | 10:00AM - 12:00PM, 16 July (FREE)
Location: Collins Booksellers on Lydiard
Description: See Yuval Zommer's window art come to life, based on his Big Book of series.

Community

Frost Bites Food Festival | 12:00PM-8:00PM, 10 July ($2)
Location: Ballarat Showgrounds
Description: A food festival featuring street food trucks, dessert vendors, market stalls, kids' rides, and carnival games.

Ballarat Farmers Market | 9:00AM - 1:00PM | 12 July (FREE)
Location: North Gardens Reserve
Description: A vibrant market with fresh produce, hot food, crafts, and more.

Clunes Farmers and Makers Market | 9:00AM - 1:00PM | 13 July (Info)
Location: Fraser Street, Clunes
Description: Artisanal food, seasonal produce, artists, makers, plants and more.

All Booked Out | 9:00AM - 4:00PM, 12-13 July (FREE)
Location: Ballarat Inter Club Drop In Centre
Description: A book fest for readers, writers, and authors with an author market, kids' corner, panels, readings, and a book swap.

Winter Whimsy Junk Journal Workshop | 2:00PM - 5:00PM, 10 July ($60)
Location: The Workshoppery
Description: Craft a one-of-a-kind junk journal inspired by the rich textures, vintage feel, and wintry beauty of Ballarat.

Family Fun

Magician Show at Golden Point Hotel | 6:30PM | 10 July (Info)
Location: Golden Point Hotel
Description: An amazing magician show with incredible illusions and lots of laughs for the kids

Slime Lab! | 11:00AM | 10 July (Info)
Location: Collins Booksellers
Description: A sticky, slimy fun session. Spaces are limited and bookings are essential.

Stufflers Bear Building | 9:30AM-4:00PM, 14-18 July ($10)
Location: Delacombe Town Centre
Description: Make your own furry friend for only $10! Choose from various animal skins and bring your new friend to life.

Winter School Holiday Fun at Central Square | 11:00AM - 2:00PM, Until 18 July (FREE)
Location: Central Square Ballarat
Description: Free face painting and the popular Furals Winter Workshop, plus a food court and retail therapy.

City of Ballarat Community Hubs Winter School Holiday Program | Until 18 July (FREE)
Location: Various venues and activities
Description: An exciting range of activities from creative arts and crafts to dancing with dinosaurs.

Dinosaur Dance! | 11:00AM - 12:00PM | 14 July (FREE)
Location: Djila-tjarriu Community Hub, Alfredton and Lucas Community Hub
Description: A fun and interactive dance session for kids.

Craft Morning | 10:30AM - 12:00PM | 15 July (FREE)
Location: Djila-tjarriu Community Hub, Alfredton
Description: Get creative at this craft morning for all ages.

Storytelling with Em Chandler | 10:00AM - 11:00AM | 15 July (Info)
Location: Lucas Community Hub, Lucas
Description: Join Em Chandler as she shares silly and spectacular folk and fairy tales from around the world.

Art Pop! Winter School Holiday Program | 1:00PM - 3:00PM | 15-17 July (Info)
Location: Ballarat East Neighbourhood House
Description: A fun and creative art program for kids during the school holidays.

. . .

🎵 Live Music

Please note: Always double-check with venues for any last-minute changes or ticketing requirements.)

Thursday, 10 July

Hop Temple | Musical Bingo

The Sporting Globe Ballarat | Kaze Karaoke

Friday, 11 July

Odessas | Frank Sultana | $35 | 7:00PM - 10:30PM

Union Square | Bob Sedergreen and Friends | $20.00 - $25.00 | 7:00PM - 10:00PM

Wendouree Centre for Performing Arts | Dolly - I Will Always Love You | $45 - $65 | 8:00PM - 10:30PM

JD's Bar & Lounge | Kaze Karaoke | FREE | 8:00PM - 11:59PM

Volta | Diabolica Records Presents "Live at Volta" | 8:00PM

Saturday, 12 July

The Deck Ballarat | John Course (Ministry Of Sound) | 7:00PM - 1:30AM

The Main Bar | SPACEJUNK Album Launch | 2:00PM - 5:00PM

Her Majesty's Theatre | You Am I - Hi Fi Way Live | $59.09 | 8:00PM - 10:30PM

Hop Temple | Saturday Live Music | Info | 6:00PM - 10:00PM

Hop Temple | Travis McCarthy | 12:00PM - 10:00PM

The Munster Arms Hotel | White Line Fever

Buninyong Town Hall | Live Aid 40th Anniversary Concert | $15 | 6:30PM - 11:00PM

The Cattleyards Inn | Kaze Karaoke | FREE | 8:00PM - 11:59PM

Sunday, 13 July

Hop Temple | Blues, Brews and Barbeque - Bret Mosley | 1:30PM - 9:00PM

Cubby Haus Brewing | Syrah Duo | 2:00PM - 5:00PM

Itinerant Spirits, Soldiers Hill | Sunday Sessions | FREE | 2:00PM - 5:00PM

Monday, 14 July

Sip Champagne Bar | Bastille Day: Live Music with Lucy Riddett | $40 | 6:00PM - 8:00PM

Tuesday, 15 July

The Robin Hood Hotel | Kaze Karaoke

Wednesday, 16 July

Volta | THY ART IS MURDER | Brutality Across Australia | 7:00PM

🌤️ Weather

Thursday, 10 July
3°🌡️7° | 🌧️ | ☔95% | 💨 Light winds

Friday, 11 July
3°🌡️12° | 🌦️ | ☔80% | 💨 Light winds

Saturday, 12 July
4°🌡️13° | ⛅ | ☔40% | 💨 Light winds

Sunday, 13 July
5°🌡️12° | 🌦️ | ☔80% | 💨 Light winds

Monday, 14 July
3°🌡️8° | 🌧️ | ☔90% | 💨 Light winds

Tuesday, 15 July
2°🌡️9° | 🌦️ | ☔80% | 💨 Light winds

Thanks for reading today’s edition of Ballarat Life. If you found something useful, please share it with your friends 🙏

Until next Thursday!