🍻 Say hello to Ballarat’s newest pub

Good morning, Ballarat! Footy fever’s in the air and the AFL long weekend is finally here. Hopefully it means a bit of extra time with friends, family, or just a well-earned breather. If you haven’t locked in your plans yet, don’t worry, there’s plenty on around town to help you make the most of it. Let’s dive in.

– Luciano Devoto
Keep Ballarat Life brewing by shouting me a coffee ☕

FEATURE STORY

🏅 Ballarat gets the Games (and the good vibes)

Guess who’s about to play host to hundreds of athletes, volunteers, and enough high-fives to make your palms sting? Yep, Ballarat. The Special Olympics Victoria State Games are rolling into town next weekend, Friday 3 to Sunday 5 October.

The action’s spread far and wide: golf at Ballarat Golf Club, athletics at Llanberris Reserve, swimming at the Aquatic & Lifestyle Centre, basketball and netball at Selkirk Stadium, bocce at Sebastopol Bowling Club, plus football, gymnastics and table tennis across the city.

You can check out the info and full schedule in the Ballarat Times, So, warm up those vocal cords, grab a mate, and get ready to witness sport in its purest, happiest form.

POLL

🧩 Fancy a Ballarat Puzzle?

I’ve been toying with an idea of creating a Ballarat-themed jigsaw puzzle, featuring this beautifully and peaceful picture captured by Kristian Bell of Lake Wendouree’s iconic swans and boat sheds.

I’m thinking of doing a limited short run but only if there’s enough interest. Aiming to sell them for $49, which should be doable based on printing, freight and other costs. I think it would make a lovely gift or a nice spring project to enjoy at home.

. . .

COMMUNITY DIGEST

🌏 86 new neighbours pass the welcome mat

Ballarat’s family just got bigger. On Australian Citizenship Day, 86 locals from 21 different countries officially pledged their commitment to Australia and to our city. From Fiji to Ireland, Vietnam to Zimbabwe, each brings traditions, talents and fresh stories that make Ballarat richer.

Our city’s always been shaped by newcomers from gold rush migrants in the 1850s to today’s global citizens. This latest group carries that legacy forward, adding new chapters to Ballarat’s story as a diverse and welcoming community.

. . .

🌸 106 years of unstoppable spirit

Ballarat has farewelled Amy Ellen Bessie Burow AM, who lived an extraordinary 106 years. A pioneer of women’s athletics from the 1930s, Amy went on to serve as an official, mentor and tireless advocate for inclusion in sport. .

Beyond athletics she gave back in countless ways, from teaching to community volunteering. A century of passion, grit and kindness!

. . .

🎂 New Gen turns 20 and still knows how to party

The Probus Club of Ballarat New Generation has officially hit the big 2-0, celebrating two decades of mentoring, networking, and creating opportunities for Ballarat’s next generation of leaders.

What began in 2004 with just a handful of keen young professionals has grown into a buzzing community of hundreds of members, alumni, and friends. Along the way they’ve hosted events, sparked collaborations, and given countless locals a leg-up in their careers.

. . .

🏆 Bridge Mall wins big

On Tuesday, the Bridge Mall Redevelopment won Best Regional Main Street or Town Centre at the 2025 Mainstreet Australia Awards. The $23 million project has transformed the historic strip with people-friendly spaces, fresh design, and a new buzz that’s already drawing crowds.

Not everyone’s sold on the final layout and it’s been one of those classic “love it or loathe it” debates online. But either way the Mall’s fresh look is definitely an improvement and it’s turning heads.

. . .

THROWBACK

 📖 This month in history…

1869 - Flames at the Town Hall

In September 1869, Ballarat’s original Town Hall went up in flames, leaving only the clock tower standing. The blaze was a major setback but locals wasted no time planning a grand replacement, rising from the ashes the following year.

1870 - From Borough to City

September 1870 marked Ballarat’s leap from “borough” to “city” status - essentially graduating from a small local council to a fully fledged urban authority. For a town built on gold dust, it was a shining upgrade.

1925 - Mabel vs the Washing Machine

September 1925 wasn’t kind to Mabel Shields of Scotts Parade, whose hand was badly crushed in a newfangled mechanical washing machine. Here is your reminder to be grateful for today’s washers; they do their job quietly and inflict only vanishing socks!

1971 - The Last Tram Ride

On a sunny September day in 1971, Ballarat’s tram system clattered along Sturt Street for the very last time. Crowds gathered to wave off the beloved green and yellow trams, which had been running since the horse-drawn days. You can still hop aboard at the Tramway Museum, but the daily rides are history.

BUSINESS

🍻 Meet the Painted Lady 1862

If you haven’t already noticed, the Eastern Hotel has had a serious glow-up, and now she’s strutting around town as the Painted Lady 1862. New name, new look, same prime spot on 81 Humffray St N Ballarat East.

The Lady opened her doors on last Saturday and has had great success so far, with live music, and a vibe that makes you want to make it the weekend regular. It’s like your bestie getting a fresh haircut and looking an enviable 10 years younger. I’ll raise a glass to that!

WHAT’S ON

🎭️ Happenings Around Town

Handpicked activities for all ages

Markets

Ballarat Nightlife Market | Fri, 26 Sep | 2:00pm - 7:00pm | (Info)
Venue: Ballarat City Oval
Description: Bringing together the best street food traders, artisans and kid's activities, with over 100 stalls featuring handmade, unique, and pre-loved goods. 

Ballarat Farmers Market | Sat, 27 Sep | 9:00am - 1:00pm | (Info)
Venue: North Gardens Reserve
Description: A bustling market near Lake Wendouree with fresh produce, artisanal goods, hot food, coffee, gifts, and live music. 

Festivals

2025 Ballarat International Foto Biennale: Open Program | All Week | (Info)
Venue: Festival Hub at the Ballarat Mining Exchange
Description: Explore the works of international and Australian photographers in unexpected spaces throughout Ballarat, from galleries and laneways to local businesses and historic buildings. 

PopCon 2025 | Sun, 28 Sep | 11:00am - 4:00pm | (Free)
Venue: Civic Hall and Ballarat Library
Description: Ballarat’s favourite pop culture convention returns with a cosplay competition, over 40 artist stalls, Live Action Role Play with Swordcraft, tabletop gaming, a Just Dance Zone, and more. 

ST. ALi Italian Film Festival at the Palace Regent Cinema | Various Times | (Info)
Venue: Palace Regent Cinemas
Description: The annual Spring escape to Italy arrives in Ballarat for the first time, with a selection of box office hits and award-winning films. 

For Kids

Adopt a Pet Workshops | Thu, 25 Sep | 1:00pm - 4:00pm | (Info)
Venue: The Art Club Hub
Description: A series of super cute creative workshops for children aged 5-10. Adopt a cat (1-2pm) or an exotic animal (3-4pm), decorate their carrier and accessories, and take a new furry friend home.

Art Pop School Holiday Program | Tue, 30 Sep - Wed, 1 Oct | 1:00pm - 3:00pm | (Info)
Venue: Eureka Centre
Description: The Art Gallery of Ballarat pops up at the Eureka Centre for a series of Spring-inspired art-making workshops for children.

Cardmaking Workshop | Thu, 25 Sep | 10:30am - 12:00pm | (Free)
Venue: Lucas Community Hub
Description: For ages 5-12. Design and decorate their own greeting cards with pop-up surprises, fold-out messages or slide designs. 

Free Spring Holiday Fun | Thu, 25 Sep, Tue, 30 Sep & Wed, 1 Oct | 11:00am - 3:00pm | (Free)
Venue: Central Square Ballarat
Description: Celebrate the Grand Final Season by testing your handball skills, or enjoy a magical sand art experience to make your own colourful, sparkly masterpiece to take home. 

Maker Space Teen Takeover | Thu, 25 Sep | 3:30pm - 5:30pm | (Free)
Venue: Ballarat Library Maker Space
Description: For ages 15-18. A teen-only drop-in for young creatives. Staff are on hand to guide you through using the 3D printer, sewing machines, sublimation printer, heat press and badge makers. 

Dinosaur Excavation | Tue, 30 Sep | 11:30am - 12:30pm | (Free)
Venue: Wendouree Library
Description: For ages 8-13. Learn how paleontologists get fossils out of the ground as we dig into some prehistoric fun this Spring. 

Extreme Space | All Week | Various Times | (Info)
Venue: Ballarat Municipal Observatory and Museum
Description: Learn about the extremes of space with hands-on experiences for kids during the day and observatory tours and telescope viewings in the evening. 

Kids Karaoke at The Robin Hood Hotel Ballarat | Wed, 1 Oct | 1:00pm - 3:30pm | (Free)
Venue: The Robin Hood Hotel
Description: A custom stage, excellent sound, and an extensive song list await as your little ones become the stars in a fun, friendly atmosphere. 

Teddy Bear Fun Day | Wed, 1 Oct | (Info)
Venue: Collins Booksellers Ballarat Bridge Mall
Description: Bring your teddy friend and enjoy storytime, decorate teddy bear biscuits, make a teddy bear bookmark and go on a Teddy Friend Hunt. Bookings essential.

Community Events

Taskmaster Night | Sat, 27 Sep | 7:00pm | (Free)
Venue: Victoria Bowls Club
Description: Join an evening of ridiculous challenges and creative problem-solving. Whether you're cunning, chaotic or just plain confused there's a place for you in this battle of absurdity. 

Steamrail Victoria – Eureka Express | Sun, 28 Sep | 9:00am - 5:48pm | (Info)
Venue: Ballarat Railway Station
Description: Join aboard The Vintage Train as it travels via the Golden Plains to Ballarat, returning 'up the straight' with an R class steam locomotive. 

National Model T Ford Rally - Public Display Day | Wed, 1 Oct | 10:00am - 3:00pm | (Free)
Venue: Ballarat Greyhound Racing Club
Description: Over 100 magnificent Model T Fords will be on public display for all to view and interact with the owners. Food and drink will be available to purchase. 

Workshops

Tie-Dyed Bookmark Making | Thu, 25 Sep | 2:00pm | (Info)
Venue: Collins Booksellers Ballarat Bridge Mall
Description: Get groovy and make your very own tie-dyed bookmark. Spaces are limited and bookings are essential. 

Casual Canvas Sessions | Sat, 27 Sep | 10:00am - 4:00pm | (Info)
Venue: The Art Club Hub
Description: No pressure, just a few hours of painting. Choose a pre-drawn canvas or start with a blank one. All supplies are provided, and they clean up the mess. Suitable for all ages. 

Art Workshop: 'Call it Out' Respect Women | Wed, 1 Oct | 11:00am - 1:00pm | (Free)
Venue: Main Road Creative
Description: For ages 14-17. A free workshop and safe space to explore gender equity and respectful relationships through creating individual artworks. 

Visual Arts Folio Workshop | Wed, 1 Oct | 9:30am - 4:00pm | (Info)
Venue: Arts Academy, Camp Street
Description: A hands-on session for VCE students and mature-age participants covering practical drawing and printmaking activities, with expert guidance to help build skills and confidence. 

. . .

🎵 Live Music

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

Thu, 25 Sep

Freight Bar and Rooftop | Primitive Deserters, Chaos Co-Op, Shon Dunn | 7:00pm | (Free)
Hop Temple | Grand Final Musical Bingo | 7:00pm | ($2.00)
The Sporting Globe Ballarat | Kaze Karaoke | 8:00pm

Fri, 26 Sep

JD’s Bar and Lounge Ballarat | Kaze Karaoke | 8:00pm - 11:59pm
The Main Bar | Sláinte (Old Melbourne Road Duo) | 7:00pm - 11:00pm

Sat, 27 Sep

Piano Bar Ballarat | Piano by Request | 6:00pm - 11:59pm
Hop Temple | Saturday Live Music | 6:00pm - 10:00pm
The Cattleyards Inn Delacombe | Kaze Karaoke | 8:00pm - 11:59pm
The Deck Ballarat | Ben Gerrans | 9:00pm - 3:00am
The Munster Arms Hotel | Live Irish Music Duo | 7:00pm - 10:00pm 

Sun, 28 Sep

The Park Hotel | Troy Elliot | 5:00pm - 8:00pm

Tue, 30 Sep

The Robin Hood Hotel Ballarat | Kaze Karaoke | 7:00pm - 11:00pm

🌤️ Weather

Thursday, 25 September
16 °C 🌡️ 8 °C | 🌦️ | ☔ ~60% | 💨 W 25 km/h

Friday, 26 September
17 °C 🌡️ 6 °C | 🌧️ | ☔ ~80% | 💨 NW 30 km/h

Saturday, 27 September
14 °C 🌡️ 5 °C | 🌦️ | ☔ ~50% | 💨 W 25 km/h

Sunday, 28 September
14 °C 🌡️ 4 °C | ☁️ | ☔ ~30% | 💨 SW 20 km/h

Monday, 29 September
16 °C 🌡️ 5 °C | 🌦️ | ☔ ~60% | 💨 NNW 20 km/h

Tuesday, 30 September
16 °C 🌡️ 6 °C | 🌦️ | ☔ ~60% | 💨 WNW 25 km/h

Wednesday, 1 October
15 °C 🌡️ 5 °C | 🌦️ | ☔ ~60% | 💨 W 20 km/h

. . .

Big thanks for subscribing to Ballarat Life! If you’d like to support this free community newsletter and keep local stories brewing each week, you can shout me a coffee.

Until next Thursday!