☕️ This local café is doing way more than serving coffee

Good morning, Ballarat! The Winter Festival is in its final days so if you haven’t yet, now’s the time to rug up and dive in. There’s still plenty happening around town, just don’t forget your umbrella. There’s a decent dose of rain on the radar this weekend.

In today’s edition

• Business Awards finalists revealed

• Donation honours Janine Owen’s legacy

• Winter Festival wraps up this weekend

• Choral Festival returns for its 27th year

• Roll up your sleeves for National Tree Day

• Red Duck Brewery officially hits the market

• Café of the week: Our Kitchen Social

• What’s on around town

- Luciano Devoto

FEATURE STORY

🏆 Celebrating Local Legends in Business

Awards season is upon us and no, it’s not the Logies. It’s better! The 2025 Commerce Ballarat Business Excellence Awards finalists are out, and it’s a cracking list of local legends.

From family-run cafés to standout tradies and social enterprises, the list is packed with local businesses making a real difference in our region (and caffeinated!). This year also sees the debut of the Accessibility & Inclusion Award, shining a light on businesses going the extra mile to make their services welcoming for everyone.

👉 Have a stickybeak at the finalists: See the Full List

Winners will be announced in August, so if your favourite made the cut, give ’em a shoutout or a Google review. That works too.

WINTER FESTIVAL

⛄ Ballarat Winter Festival Wrapping Up!

If you haven’t tested your balance on ice yet, now’s the time as the Ballarat Winter Festival finishes this Sunday 27 July.

What’s Been Hot (Despite the Chill):

• Over 14,400 people have glided (and wobbled) across the pop-up ice rink, booking out sessions faster than you can say “wipeout.”

• The new 7.5-metre Ukiyo Spiegeltent has been a crowd favourite, serving up clowning, acrobatics, magic, and even bubble-fun shows.

• The Hot Choc Showdown has drawn out the chocoholics with 25+ venues and nearly 1,000 votes cast for Ballarat’s ultimate winter sip.

Pro Tips for the Final Days

• Get 15% off ice rink tickets when you dine local. Just flash a receipt of $25+ from a participating café or restaurant.

• Open the Hot Choc Interactive Map on your phone to hunt down the closest spot serving up steamy, chocolatey goodness.

It’s your last chance! Check out the festival’s calendar and activities before it all melts away.

. . .

COMMUNITY DIGEST

💙 A Lasting Legacy for Janine

A generous gift has been made in honour of the late Janine Owen, a much-loved Ballarat local and dedicated advocate for families doing it tough.

Janine’s unexpected passing in 2012 inspired the creation of the Janine Owen Fund, set up by the Ballarat Foundation to continue her compassionate work. Since then, more than $130,000 has been distributed to support causes like family violence prevention, mental health, homelessness, and food insecurity.

This latest donation, from Janine’s own family and estate will help the fund grow even further, ensuring kids and families in need continue to receive support in the way Janine would have wanted.

If you’re looking for ways to give back to the community, visit the Ballarat Foundation.

. . .

🎶 Choral Festival Hits the Right Notes This Weekend

If you hear sweet harmonies floating through the air this weekend, don’t be surprised. The Ballarat’s Choral Festival is back for its 27th year!

This Sunday 27 July, St Patrick’s Cathedral will come alive with performances from a dozen local choirs. Expect everything from classic folk tunes to Beatles hits and even a bit of ABBA magic. It’s a full afternoon of feel-good singing, and it’s totally free.

And wait for it… as all the choirs come together for a mass sing-along finale, guaranteed to leave you with goosebumps (and maybe a tear or two).

📍 1:30pm start, St Patrick’s Cathedral. Free entry (just rock up and enjoy).

Easily one of the best things happening in Ballarat this weekend. Good vibes, local talent, no entry fee!

. . .

🌳 Roll Up Your Sleeves for National Tree Day

Get your gumboots ready because the National Tree Day is back this Sunday 28 July, and Ballarat locals are invited to get their hands dirty (for a good cause, of course).

This year’s big planting session is happening at the Buninyong Botanical Gardens, with help from the Buninyong & District Community Association and Ballarat Wild Plants Rescue.

Everyone’s welcome! Families, first-time tree planters, and seasoned green thumbs alike. All tools and guidance provided, just bring your enthusiasm!

The session kicks off at 9am with a cuppa and safety briefing, followed by planting until midday. Morning tea’s on the house, and you’ll leave knowing you’ve helped future-proof Ballarat’s greenery!

BUSINESS

🍻 Cheers to Red Duck’s Next Chapter

Ballarat’s much-loved Red Duck Brewery & Distillery has officially been listed for sale after 20 years of delighting locals with its bold, small-batch brews.

Scott and Vanessa Wilson‑Browne began brewing on Lake Purrumbete in 2005, before relocating to Alfredton in 2009. Their quirky, all-natural creations, loyal following, and award-winning reputation led to the opening of a cellar door soon after.

Now, the complete operation including brewing and distilling equipment, cellar door, brand IP, licenses, and handwritten recipe collection is up for grabs for anyone keen to carry on the Red Duck legacy. 👉 Learn more

. . .

☕ Café of the Week: Our Kitchen Social Café

Nestled in Barkly Square at 25 Barkly Street, Our Kitchen Social Café isn’t your average coffee stop. It’s a social enterprise and training hub run by the Ballarat Neighbourhood Centre.

Open Monday to Friday mornings, the café helps long-term unemployed locals build barista and hospitality skills through its 9-week "Café Skills" program, with hands-on experience and accredited training.

And if you’ve got a team lunch or office event coming up, they also offer affordable catering services, with every order supporting workforce training and local job pathways.

. . .

WHAT’S ON

🎭️ Happenings Around Town

Christmas in July

Christmas in July at Hop Temple | 23-26 JUL | 3:00 PM - 10:00 PM | (Free)
Location: Hop Temple
Description: The venue and lane are transformed into a festive wonderland with snow, hot chocolate, mulled wine, and festive food specials. URLs:

Christmas in July at Drag Bingo Edition! | Thu, 24 JUL | From 6:00 PM | ($10)
Location: Piano Bar Ballarat
Description: Festive campery and chaotic bingo fun. Features performances, prizes, and Christmas cocktails. Ugly Christmas jumpers encouraged!

Christmas in July at the Boatshed | Fri, 25 JUL | 5:00 PM - 11:00 PM | ($135) 
Location: Boatshed Restaurant
Description: A magical evening of festive flavour. Enjoy a four-course Christmas dinner perfectly paired with seasonal cocktails.

Christmas in July at Mt Coghill Vineyard | 26-27 JUL | ($85)
Location: Mt Coghill Vineyard
Description: Enjoy a festive feast fireside with all the trimmings. Includes a three-course meal and a glass of sparkling wine.

Winter Glow | Sat, 26 JUL | (Free)
Location: The Shared Table, Buninyong
Description: A heartwarming community celebration with a snow machine, fire pits, live acoustic music, and festive food and drink.

Christmas in July - Gin & Gingerbread | Sat, 26 JUL | 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM | (Info)
Location: Gindu, Woodend
Description: Decorate gingerbread sweets while sipping locally distilled gin at this warm, wintery Christmas in July event, including canapes.

Markets

Ballarat Farmers Market | SAT, 26 JUL | 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM | (Info) 
Location: North Gardens Reserve
Description: Enjoy fresh vegetables, fruit, bread, gifts, and hot food at this market set in the park lands near Lake Wendouree.

Comedy

Luke Heggie: YUCK | Thu, 24 JUL | 6:00 PM & 8:00 PM | (From $37.00)
Location: Volta
Description: A stand-up comedy show by acclaimed Australian comedian Luke Heggie, known for his dry, sardonic wit. Two sessions available.

Trivia Nights

EM J's Wednesday Night Trivia | Wed, 30 JUL | 7:30 PM | (Free)
Location: The Royal Mail Hotel
Description: Test your wits at this weekly trivia night. Gather your friends for a whirlwind of knowledge, fun, and great prizes. Hosted by Kaze Entertainment.

Aunty Jacks 'Old School Trivia' | Wed, 30 JUL | 7:00 PM | (Free)
Location: Aunty Jacks
Description: Ballarat's favourite trivia night, hosted by Spud! Free to play, with a complimentary drink on arrival and prizes to be won.

Hop Temple Trivia | Wed, 30 JUL | 7:00 PM | (Free)
Location: Hop Temple
Description: Weekly trivia night with prizes, team-based fun, and food/drink specials.

F.R.I.E.N.D.S Trivia, Paint and Sip Night | Fri, 25 JUL | 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM | ($65) 
Location: Pinot & Picasso Ballarat
Description: Could this class be any more fun? Paint an artwork inspired by the show, enjoy a curated playlist, and take part in F.R.I.E.N.D.S trivia.

EM J's Monday Night Trivia | MON, 28 JUL | 7:00 PM - 9:30 PM | (Free)
Location: The Cattleyards Inn
Description: A whirlwind of knowledge and fun every Monday night, testing your wits and memory with great prizes to be won.

Arts & Exhibitions

Jill's Paintings | Until 9 AUG | 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM | (Free) 
Location: Tin Roof cafe
Description: A display of Jill's paintings at the Tin Roof Cafe, featuring China as she remembers it. A unique glimpse into her artistic memory.

Chrissy Button - Daughters of Baba Yaga | Until 17 AUG | 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM | (Free) 
Location: Backspace Gallery
Description: Local artist Chrissy Button’s works, inspired by Polish folklore and the feminine, respond to patriarchal symbolism found in the Baba Yaga fairy tale.

Seasons of Women by Janette Wotherspoon | Until AUG | (Free)
Location: Art Space Ballarat
Description: A collection of handwritten, digitally printed, and handcrafted narratives on cloth banners, from nearly 100 women across Australia.

Community & Special Events

Royal South Street Society Eisteddfod: Pianoforte & Vocal Competitions | 24 JUL - 30 JUL | 9:15 AM - 7:00 PM | ($8 - $10)
Location: Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute
Description: A week-long showcase of emerging talent in piano and vocals as part of the historic Royal South Street Society competitions.

Red Series 2025 | Fri, 25 & Sat 26 JUL | From 12:00 | (65.00)
Location: The Ballarat Mining Exchange
Description: Winemakers from the Grampians and Pyrenees including established icons and emerging producers.

Celebrating Chopin - The Margaret Schofield Memorial Prize | Sun, 27 JUL | 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM | ($8 - $10) 
Location: Ballarat Mechanics' Institute
Description: One of Australia's most prestigious piano competitions. Enjoy an afternoon of exquisite music in a beautiful venue.

Rare Book Week: Uncover Hidden Treasures | Wed, 30 JUL | 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM | (Booking)
Location: Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute
Description: A panel discussion with librarians from historic Mechanics' Institutes showcasing rare books and discussing their rich collections.

Ballarat Jobs & Training Expo 2025 | Fri, 25 JUL | 10:00 AM - 4:30 PM | (Free) 
Location: The Goods Shed
Description: A careers, training, and skills expo with over 80 organizations, offering workshops and networking opportunities.

Central Highlands Swing Dance | From Thu, 24 JUL Until AUG | 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM | (Info)
Location: Creswick Neighbourhood Centre
Description: Learn partner dancing with Swing and Lindy Hop! A fabulous style of dance where you can love the music, the fashion and the community.

Paint your Mate | Sat, 26 JUL | 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM | ($60)
Location: Hop Temple
Description: A fun-filled afternoon of sips, paints, and laughs in a boozy art class. Your ticket includes canvas, lunch, and a complimentary drink.

. . .

🎵 Live Music

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

Thursday, 24 JULY

Volta | Novaspace | 7:00 PM | ($20)

Friday, 25 JULY

Freight Bar | Adam Cameron | 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM | (Free)
Red Lion Hotel | Jerome Wools Live | (Free)
Piano Bar Ballarat | SOS: The Australian ABBA Tribute Show | Doors 6:00 PM, Show 7:00 PM | ($30)
Kilderkin Distillery | Fiona Ross | 7:30 PM - 10:30 PM | ($25)
Odessa at Leaver's Hotel | Gelareh Pour - Neo - Persian Experimentalism

Saturday, 26 JULY

The Shared Table | Blues Fusion | 12:00 PM
Freight Bar | Rooftop Saturdays: Cooper Pratt | 7:00 PM - Late | (Free)
Hop Temple | Saturday Live Music | 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM | (Free)
Ballarat Trades Hall | Juan Alban & The Guilt Zone - Album Launch | 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Odessa at Leaver's Hotel | Crank Williams and Patsy DeCline

Sunday, 27 JULY

Freight Bar | BJ Humphrey | 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM | ($10.00)
Market Hotel | Three’s a crowd | 3:00 PM
Freight Bar | SundaySesh with LIPPA | 7:00 PM - LATE | (Free)
Hop Temple | Blues, Brews and Barbeque with Shane Gilbert | 1:30 PM - 8:00 PM | (Free)
Kank Wolverang Records | The Darlings Family Trust Live
The Grand Ballarat | Jeremy Beggs & The Long Road Travellers and The Distant South
Odessa at Leaver's Hotel | Meg Washington | 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM
Mulberry Manse, Clunes | Revenge Tango

Wednesday, 30 JULY

Wendouree Centre for Performing Arts | 10cc Live in Concert | 7:00 PM

🌤️ Weather

Thursday, 24 July
   1°🌡️12° | 🌥️ | ☔10% | 💨 NW 15–25 km/h

Friday, 25 July
   3°🌡️10° | 🌧️ | ☔95% | 💨 N→NE 15–35 km/h

Saturday, 26 July
   3°🌡️10° | 🌧️ | ☔90% | 💨 NE 25–35 km/h

Sunday, 27 July
   5°🌡️9° | 🌧️ | ☔90% | 💨 NW 15–30 km/h

Monday, 28 July
   4°🌡️10° | 🌧️ | ☔80% | 💨 W→NW 20–30 km/h

Tuesday, 29 July
   3°🌡️9° | 🌧️ | ☔70% | 💨 N–NW 15–25 km/h

Wednesday, 30 July
   3°🌡️8° | 🌧️ | ☔25% | 💨 NW 18 km/h

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Until next Thursday!

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