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💪 Hercules is back! And looking better than ever

💪 Hercules is back! And looking better than ever

Luciano Devoto
July 17, 2025

G’day, Ballarat! It’s been peak Ballarat winter this week with freezing mornings, a bit of rain and that constant chilly breeze doing its thing. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of good stuff happening to make up for it.

In today’s edition

Hercules is back and flexing at the Gardens
New sensory-friendly nights at Winter Wonderlights
Where to get your next hot choc fix
Ballarat’s newest laneway needs a name
Volunteer legends making waves at Grampians Health
Korean fried chicken heaven
What’s on around town

- Luciano Devoto

FEATURE STORY

💪 Hercules is back! And looking better than ever

Photo: Ballarat Council

The statue of Hercules is back where he belongs in the Botanical Gardens, after a top-to-toe restoration. And it’s all thanks to local legend Richard Thege, who tipped in a whopping $240,000 of his own cash to get the job done.

Hercules was taken down in 2022 after cracking up (literally), but now he’s back all patched up, standing tall, and flexing with pride again.

It’s the first time ever a local has personally funded the restoration of one of our public statues. Council’s even popped up a plaque in Richard’s honour (fair enough!).

So, next time you’re at the gardens, go say g’day to old mate Hercules. Community pride doesn’t get much better than this.

WINTER FESTIVAL

All the glow, none of the chaos: New sensory-friendly nights at Winter Wonderlights

Photo: Sovereign Hill

Sovereign Hill is taking Winter Wonderlights to the next level this year with brand new Relaxed Sessions running 21 to 24 July. These sensory-friendly evenings are a total game-changer for families and anyone who finds big crowds a bit much.

It’s all done in partnership with Aspect (Autism Spectrum Australia) and the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program. A brilliant move to make sure everyone gets to enjoy the winter magic without the sensory overload.

These sessions run during peak festival nights, meaning you don’t have to miss out on the fun. If you’ve always been curious about Winter Wonderlights but crowds put you off, this is your golden ticket to experience the sparkle on your terms.

☕ Still on the hunt for the best hot choc in town?

Photo: Visit Ballarat

Quick reminder! The Ballarat Life interactive Hot Chocolate Showdown map is still live and ready to guide you to the closest (and cosiest) cup in town. Over 25 local cafes are in the running, and the map makes it super easy to see who’s serving what, where, and for how much.

It even shows you the nearest spots based on your location, which is perfect if you’re out and about enjoying the Winter Festival and feel the choccie craving hit.

Don’t forget that by voting for your favourite hot chocolate you’ll go in the draw to win a $100 local gift voucher. So it’s basically a win-win: drink hot choc, support local, and maybe treat yourself later.

COMMUNITY DIGEST

📍Name Ballarat’s newest laneway

Photo: City of Ballarat

Ballarat’s got a brand new laneway off Errard Street South and it’s waiting for an official name. Right now, it goes by the working name “Promise Lane”, inspired by Ballarat’s gold rush era notion of the “promise of gold,” hope, and new beginnings that drew settlers here in the 1850s.

Council’s opening it up to the community to either keep it as Promise Lane or suggest something else. Personally, I’m leaning towards Lower the Rates Lane (kidding… mostly).

Submissions close 15 August on MySay Ballarat, so if you’ve got a clever idea, now’s your chance to make your mark.

. . .

💙 Local legends just joined Grampians Health

Photo: Grampians Health

Last month, 15 new volunteers have just completed their induction at Grampians Health’s Base Hospital, and have already started learning the ropes, welcoming visitors in A&E, guiding patients, and generally brightening the place up .

Earlier this year, Grampians Health held a Well‑Being & Support session just for volunteers, offering Tai Chi, meditation, storytelling and more just in case hospital duty gets a bit heavy.

If you’ve ever thought about volunteering, Grampians Health is still recruiting so check out their website. You’ll be doing something generous and might even snag a free Tai Chi session!

. . .

🌱 Fancy getting your hands dirty?

Photo: City of Ballarat

If you’ve been meaning to learn a bit more about Ballarat’s bushland (and maybe meet some nice locals along the way), Nature Stewards is back for its fourth year. It’s a 10-week program running from September to November, covering everything from local plants and wildlife to Traditional Owner knowledge and climate.

No experience needed, just curiosity. It’s mostly running on Saturday mornings with a few optional field trips. There’s only 25 spots, it’s reasonably affordable for locals, and applications close 24 August. Definitely worth checking out.

. . .

🗑️ Tip runs just got cheaper (for locals)

Bit of a heads-up if you’ve got a tip run planned. Since 1st July the Ballarat Transfer Station on Gillies Street has new fees and load limits. Locals now get cheaper rates (finally!), but you’ll need to show proof of residency like a licence or rates notice. Out-of-towners will be paying a bit extra which seems fair enough (time for other councils to handle their own mess).

There are also new load limits with 2 cubic metres max on rubble and green waste, plus caps on mattresses, fridges and tyres.

Full details on Ballarat’s Council website.

RESTAURANT OF THE WEEK

🍗 Black Vault: Korean Fried Chicken Paradise

Photo: Uber Eats

If you're chasing bold flavour and an unforgettable feed, Black Vault on 34 Doveton St North is where it's at. Chef Jenny brings fresh Korean-fusion magic to Ballarat with double‑battered fried chicken, loaded burritos, quesadillas, bibimbap, dumplings, and vegan hits like tempeh burritos and kimchi-mushroom quesadillas.

Open Wednesday to Saturday, from 11:30 am til 8 pm, this licensed takeaway gem has earned its 205 reviews (4.8★ on Google!), with fans loving the crispy chicken, hearty portions, and friendly vibe.

Whether you're after a quick midweek meal or a casual weekend feast, Black Vault nails it every time. Perfect comfort dining, ideal for solo diners, families, or casual catch-ups, and yes, the vegan options are seriously worth a shout-out.

Check out their website and menu.

WHAT’S ON

🎭️ Happenings Around Town

Ballarat Winter Festival: Top Picks

Last chances and new events this week! See the program and events here

Winter Wonderlights at Sovereign Hill | July 17 - 21 ($38.50 - $69.50)
Location: Sovereign Hill, Bradshaw Street, Golden Point
Description: Sovereign Hill transforms into a sparkling wonderland with light projections, faux snow & wintry treats. Relaxed and sensory-friendly sessions are available from July 21-23.

Ukiyo Tent Circus & Comedy | July 17 - 20 ($8.50 - $35)
Location: Ukiyo Tent
Description: The Ukiyo tent in the CBD is your go-to for circus, comedy, and family fun, with six high-energy 40-minute shows daily. Don't miss Doctor Hubble's Bubbles!

Pop-Up Ice Skating Rink | July 17 - 23 ($10 - $49)
Location: Pop-Up Ice Skating Rink
Description: Lace up your skates! The pop-up ice rink is back, delivering frosty fun and thrilling glides in the CBD. A must-do winter experience for all ages and skill levels.

Christmas in July at Hop Temple | July 17 - 23 (FREE)
Location: Hop Temple
Description: Hop Temple becomes a festive wonderland with twinkling lights, carols, and even snow! Indulge in hot chocolate, mulled wine, and special festive food.

Winter Wonderland at Go Karts and Laserforce | July 17 - 20 (info)
Location: Ballarat Indoor Go Karts & Laserforce
Description: Enjoy unlimited Laserforce, Karaoke, and free Winter Wonderland slushies. A perfect indoor activity to escape the cold for some high-energy fun.

Arts & Exhibitions

Royal South Street Society Eisteddfod | July 17 - 23 (ticket or info)
Location: Various Venues throughout Ballarat
Description: Australia's premier performing arts eisteddfod. Enjoy a vast array of performances including Dance, Calisthenics, Debating, Music, Speech, Drama & more.

Theatre Royal Playbills 1858-1877 Exhibition | until August 17 ($5 - $7)
Location: Eureka Centre Ballarat
Description: Step back in time with a rare collection of playbills from the gold rush-era Theatre Royal, offering a captivating look into colonial Ballarat society.

Seasons of Women by Janette Wotherspoon | 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM, July 17 - 23 (Info)
Location: Art Space Ballarat
Description: Handwritten, digitally printed & handcrafted narratives on cloth banners from nearly 100 women across Australia. Enjoy live entertainment on Saturday!

Storylines IV Exhibition | Until July 25 (FREE)
Location: SMB Library
Description: See the work of 2nd year Visual Arts students. Their folios focus on "Artist Books of Ballarat History," exploring significant stories through narrative art.

Beyond the City Limits Exhibition | Until October (FREE)
Location: Lake Wendouree Museum
Description: The Ballarat Society of Artists presents an eclectic exhibition of artworks exploring the beauty of the countryside and beyond.

Comedy

Vanessa Mitchell: Lube Me Alone | 7:00 PM, Friday July 18 ($40)
Location: Piano Bar, 31 Sturt St, Ballarat Central
Description: Following her acclaimed debut, Vanessa Larry Mitchell returns with more hilarious life events, dating stories, and things that should never be said out loud!

Court House Hotel Talbot | Comedy Night | 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM, Saturday July 19 (ticket)
Location: Court House Hotel Talbot
Description: Looking for a good laugh? Head over to the historic Court House Hotel for a night of stand-up comedy.

Family Fun

Emma Memma Dance Island Party | 10:00 AM & 12:30 PM, Thursday July 17 ($37.88)
Location: Civic Hall, 300-304 Mair Street, Ballarat Central
Description: Get your little ones dancing! A vibrant, fun-filled dance party for the whole family, featuring two sessions of music and movement with Emma Memma.

International Moon Day Screening: New Eye on the Universe | 1:30 PM - 3:30 PM, Sunday July 20 (FREE)
Location: Ballarat Library
Description: Celebrate International Moon Day with a special screening of a documentary that explores the universe through new eyes.

Community & Lifestyle

Ballarat Green Drinks | 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM, Thursday July 17 (info)
Location: Bunch of Grapes Hotel
Description: A gathering for "Green Drinks," perfect for networking and discussing environmental topics and sustainable living within our community.

Boxing: Road to Contender - Weigh In | 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM, Friday July 18 (info)
Location: Ballarat Leagues Club
Description: Get a sneak peek at the gladiators before they enter the ring! The live weigh-in for a major boxing event, featuring local and international boxers.

Boxing: Road to Contender - Showcase | 4:00 PM - 10:30 PM, Saturday July 19 (info)
Location: Selkirk Stadium
Description: The main event! A massive night of boxing featuring a lineup of professional and amateur bouts with both local and international fighters.

No Lights No Lycra Ballarat | 8:00 PM, Monday July 21 ($10)
Location: 240 Lydiard St N, Soldiers Hill
Description: A one-hour dance party in the dark. A non-judgmental place that brings people together for the pure joy of dancing. Bookings online only.

EM J's Monday Night Trivia | 7:00 PM - 9:30 PM, Monday July 21 (FREE)
Location: The Cattle Yards Inn
Description: Dust off your thinking caps! Test your wits, challenge your memory, and enjoy a fantastic atmosphere with great prizes to be won.

NETWALK & LAUGH: Wellness in the Heart of Ballarat | 2:00 PM - 4:30 PM, Tuesday July 22 ($55 - $99)
Location: Lake Wendouree & Ballarat Venue TBA
Description: Calling all Ballarat businesses & entrepreneurs! This event combines networking with wellness, offering a unique opportunity to connect.

Hop Temple Christmas in July Trivia Night | 7:00 PM, Wednesday July 23 (FREE)
Location: Hop Temple, 24-28 Armstrong St N, Ballarat Central
Description: Ballarat's most entertaining trivia! Quirky rounds, exciting mini-games, and plenty of laughs. Free to play with fantastic prizes.

. . .

🎵 Live Music

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

Friday, 18 July

Saturday, 19 July

Sunday, 20 July

🌤️ Weather

Thursday, 17 July
5°🌡️11° | 🌧️ | ☔80% | 💨 N 20–25 km/h

Friday, 18 July
1°🌡️11° | 🌤️ | ☔10% | 💨 NW 15–25 km/h

Saturday, 19 July
2°🌡️11° | 🌥️ | ☔50% | 💨 NNW 25–35 km/h

Sunday, 20 July
3°🌡️11° | ☁️ | ☔30% | 💨 NNW 15–25 km/h

Monday, 21 July
1°🌡️11° | 🌤️ | ☔30% | 💨 N 20–35 km/h

Tuesday, 22 July
5°🌡️10° | 🌧️ | ☔80% | 💨 N 25–35 km/h

Wednesday, 23 July
4°🌡️10° | 🌧️ | ☔60% | 💨 NW 20–30 km/h

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Until next Thursday!

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