This display investigates some of the first catholic priests who worked in the surrounding goldfields and within the western district of Victoria. It explores the formation of the Catholic Diocese of Ballarat and the installation of Bishop Michael O’Connor in 1874 .

With Ballarat’s stunning Victorian architecture as the backdrop the annual festival highlights the city’s golden past and evolving future. Starting May 17th and over the next 10 days experience all there is to offer and immerse yourself in Ballarat. https://ballaratheritagefestival.com.au

From the moment you enter our Antique Fair held in the majestic Art Deco Ballarat Civic Hall you will be amidst the. most beautiful antiques from the Victorian, Edwardian, Art Deco and Mid century eras,

This free event is going to display more than 50 items, also this is the first time the City of Ballarat has ever exhibited these collections to public.

In conjunction with The Mechanics Institute the National Trust Ballarat Branch will run a walking tour, static display and information session. Fabulous photos of historic Ballarat, information about our built heritage and views not always available to the public.

Always been curious about the 165 year-old Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute but stopped short at the door? All are welcome to the ‘secular cathedral’ of the mechanics’ – no not that type of mechanic! Come along to our exhibition and talks to discover what we do and how institutions like ours survive.

The Oddie Lecture recognises the legacy of James Oddie, who was instrumental in the establishment of the Observatory in 1886.

The atmospheric Anderson's Mill comes alive with displays of heritage crafts, machinery and historical information. The huge waterwheel turns majestically transporting all who see it back to the days when machinery ran quietly and cannot be heard inside the mill with its thick bluestone walls.

The Hepburn family graves are a private family cemetery, that were once part of a historical pastoral holding called Smeaton Hill Run. The graves are situated close to the original homestead – Smeaton House – which was built by Scottish émigré Captain John Stuart Hepburn. Hepburn died in 1860 and his grave is representative of the style of tomb of the time. The town of Hepburn Springs

Learn to make beautiful hand made soap using traditional methods & learn to extract essential oil from lush garden plants such as lavender. A gorgeous class that showcases the simple art of soap making & how herbs can be used to create a botanically enriched soap fragrance.

Chestnuts you are delicious! We will forage & prize open burs by stomping our feet like horses. Then score, bake, & create a rich botanical chestnut sauce. Together we will make pappardelle (fresh pasta) & slurp on this simple but delicious lunch, with tiramisu, folk songs & peasant side dishes.

A unique look into the early history of Australian football in Meredith and it’s surrounding areas, and it’s immersion within those local communities. Local greats include the first player to play 300 games, Geelong and South Melbourne star Peter “The Great” Burns.

Come and see a display on the history and heritage of the old Ballan Shire.

The Lake Goldsmith Steam rally never fails to impress with the collection of home and visitor exhibits. Lake Goldsmith is unique on the Australian Rally scene in that it has permanent sheds owned by club members which house their magnificent toys.

Learn the history behind the famous Australian ICON - Vegemite. Nestled in the heart of the Pyrenees Shire, Victoria is the birth place of inventor Cyril Callister. The recently opened museum showcases a collection of memorabilia, historical items, merchandise and two art exhibits. You will be a very happy little Vegemite once you have enjoyed this unique experience.