News

AUDI CENTRE BALLARAT RECEIVES AWARD 27 March 2024

Audi Centre Ballarat has been awarded the 2023 Rural Audi Foundation Dealer of the Year, which is a huge honour for the team. While the Award is certainly a mark of distinction, the Ballarat team said knowing they help progress the futures of individuals in need of support is immensely satisfying and something they will continue to do year after year. Read more »

EASTER AT HOP TEMPLE 27 March 2024

Looking for something to do with the family this easter Sunday? Hop down to Hop Temple - a venue that is all about good beer, wine and food. The Easter bunny will be making a visit overnight, leaving some yummy choccies for the kids to hunt on Easter Sunday. BOOK NOW and celebrate the Easter weekend with the team! Read more »

WOMEN'S SELF DEFENSE CLASS 27 March 2024

Authentic Spaces has partnered with Andre Conate from The Self Defence Hub to present a half day self-defence workshop.This four-part workshop is perfect for beginners who want to gain valuable insights into situational awareness, de-escalation techniques, and emergency response strategies.Our expert female instructors will teach you stand-up and ground techniques that will help you defend yourself effectively in any situation. The workshop is scheduled for Tuesday 30 April. Full details onEVENT BRIGHT. Read more »

APCO ALFREDTON SWEEPS AWARDS

APCO Alfredton recently won the honour of the Best Independent Store Award of the Year and The Best Store Overall at the Australian Association of Convenience Stores Awards in Sydney. This is an impressive distinction when you consider they have only been in operation for a year! Congratulations to the team and owners for their hard work! Read more »

SCHOOL HOLIDAYS AT SOVEREIGN HILL 27 March 2024

Ballarat's renowned historic attraction has plenty in store for the school holidays. Win a $500 nugget as you test your luck at Gold Strike and hold real gold worth $80,000 as the Australia nugget makes a rare public appearance. Hear from the miners who made the discovery as they share the exciting story of one of the largest gold nuggets ever found. Discover the art of candle-making, explore the timeless magic of traditional photography using glass plate negatives, and uncover the whimsical world of wind-up toys. BOOK TICKETS Read more »

EASTER EGG HUNT WITH INTEGRA AND POWER FM 27 March 2024

Power FM and Integra are hosting an Easter Egg hunt on Saturday 30 March. There will be age specific sessions for children to join the fun and hunt for yummy easter eggs. Power FM will be broadcasting live, along with a roving magician, arts and crafts, food trucks and much more. Tickets to the hunt are $12 each and includes entry into the hunt and hunting bag. The sessions start from 9:30am to 1:40 pm.Book your spot and don't miss a chance to get photos with the Easter Bunny. Read more »

EASTER SNAPS AT CENTRAL SQUARE 27 March 2024

Get your free photos with the Easter Bunny and a free Easter gift for children at Central Square on Saturday 30 April, from 11am to 3pm. Simply head to the ground floor with your friends, family or workmates to click a photo on your phone, camera or any other device. Visit Central Square WEBSITE for more information. Read more »

BALLARAT HERITAGE FESTIVAL'S PROGRAM REVEALED

Ballarat’s iconic Victorian architecture will serve as the backdrop for the annual festival that explores the hidden treasures and untold stories of the region’s history and its people. The 10-day festival will be held from 17-26 May 2024, celebrating Ballarat’s rich heritage, unique stories and vibrant creative community. Head to the website for the full program and plan your next heritage escape. Keep up to date through the Facebook Page. Read more »

EASTER EGGS ARE BACK IN BALLARAT

The Easter bunny has landed in Ballarat and is leaving his eggs everywhere. Head to a colourful display of 18 neon installations by Melbourne artist Carla O’Brien, 18 giant eggs painted by Ballarat artist Rebecca Warr and 5 gold Easter bunnies in the Sturt Street Garden. The display will be in place from 29 March to 1 April. Get your cameras ready for a fun filled long weekend and some Instagram worthy pictures. Read more »

SUNDAY SPOTLIGHT

A self-taught baker, Erika Browne has turned a relatively new passion into a thriving business - Mrs Browne Bakes- and was voted the winner of the 2023 Growers, Makers & Producers People's Choice Award. Erika took the time to tell us a bit about how it all began, and what her personal favourites are.See more Read more »

DOING BUSINESS IN THE AMERICAS 27 March 2024

Are you interested in doing business in the Americas? Join Regional Development Grampians as they host two senior Trade Directors in Ballarat on April 23rd at the Gov Hub. This initiative aims to bolster local businesses currently exporting or eyeing markets in the Americas (USA, Canada, Latin America). Attendees will gain insights directly from the Trade Directors, understanding their pivotal role in supporting growth opportunities across the Americas. This event serves as a gateway for Ballarat's businesses to tap into the extensive services and programs offered by Global Victoria. They are welcoming all businesses, irrespective of size, sector, or export experience, to participate. If you're interested, please contact jodie@commerceballarat.com.au, and we'll ensure your details are passed on promptly. Read more »

#BALLBEA2024 NOMINATIONS ARE OPEN!

Last night marked the exciting launch of the 2024 Federation University Commerce Ballarat Business Excellence Awards at the Mining Exchange. With over 150 attendees gathered, the event set the stage for an exciting celebration of our local businesses. The aim of the Awards is to showcase, celebrate and support our local businesses in all they have achieved, from growth to creativity to innovation. Businesses are encouraged to nominate themselves or another. View this year's categories on the Commerce Ballarat website. Nominations close 10 April at 5pm. Read more »

BUSINESS ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

The Business Assistance Program will connect eligible businesses to desired advice and support in a broad range of areas. Support includes: Human Resources Financial Business Planning Content Creation / Marketing If successful you will be eligible for up to 4 hours of one-on-one support with a provider able to assist with your desired outcomes. Who can apply? Any businesses located in the Ballarat Local Government Area. How to apply Complete the Expression of Interest form for consideration. The Business Assistance Program is funded by the City of Ballarat and delivered by Commerce Ballarat. Read more »