Commerce Ballarat

Gen-AI in Agriculture: Practical Solutions for Everyday Tasks - Presented by Australian Regional AI Network
2025-08-07 08:00 - 17:00 (Australia/Melbourne)
Simple tools to reduce admin, improve planning, and support decisions

Discover how Gen AI can save you time, cut admin and support smarter decisions on the farm. In this hands-on one-hour workshop, the Australian Regional AI Network (ARAIN) will demonstrate real AI tools tailored for agriculture, helping with tasks like planning, reporting, and communications. You will hear practical case studies, receive prompting guides, and leave with ready to use tools. Whether you are in the field or the office, this session is designed to make AI work for your day-to-day farm operations.Discover how to:• 🔍 Sharpen your strategy – Turn paddock, weather, and market data into clear, actionable farm management plans in minutes.• ✍️ Streamline your operations – Generate crop reports, grant applications, and customer communications faster—and stay consistent.• 💬 Get better answers – Use proven prompting frameworks to get consistent, accurate outputs from tools like ChatGPT for tasks like equipment decisions or seasonal planning.• ✅ Stay safe and compliant – Learn best practices for responsible, risk-aware AI use in farm data and business operations.
What to Expect
• 🛠️ Live, step-by-step demos of AI tools solving real agri-business challenges• 📚 Case studies from successful farm and agribusiness AI applications• ❓ Interactive Q&A with ARAIN experts• 📄 Access to our micro-learning site for prompting guides, frameworks, and risk-mitigation tips
Featured Speakers
Experts from the Australian Regional AI Network (ARAIN) will share real-world insights on how AI is helping Australian farmers and agribusinesses save time, improve productivity, and build resilience.
About ARAIN
The Australian Regional AI Network (ARAIN) is a government-funded initiative backed by the Department of Industry, Science, and Resources. We support regional Australian industries, including agriculture, by delivering hands-on AI education and tools to boost competitiveness and innovation, ensuring no farm is left behind in the digital transformation.

NextGen Collective: Leadership, The Mindset.
2025-08-07 08:00
Join us for the latest edition of NextGen Collective Development: Leadership, The Mindset.
In this session, we’ll explore how understanding your unique leadership style through the DiSC framework can unlock more effective, confident, and empathetic leadership.
In this fun and interactive session, you’ll gain insight into how you naturally lead, communicate, and collaborate — and how to flex your style to better connect with others. Because better leadership starts with knowing yourself.
This session will not only contain invaluable advice, but also a spooky cocktail in one of the most unique venues in town – The Crypt. You’ll be treated to light grazing and a couple of complimentary beverages, whilst enjoying haunting ambience and some casual networking. Drinks and vital career advice – what else can you ask for on a Thursday afternoon?

This event is part of B31 August Business Festival

Getting Paid on Time - Presented by Small Business Commissioner
2025-08-06 08:00 - 17:00 | Commerce Ballarat, 119 Lydiard Street North, Ballarat Central, Victoria, 3350, Australia
Cash flow is a key concern for small business owners. Join this webinar to hear practical guidance on how you can give yourself the best chance possible of being paid on time for your goods and services.
Victorian Small Business Commissioner Lynda McAlary-Smith will provide tips on everything from setting up contracts and invoices to following-up outstanding payments, and where you can get assistance in resolving a payment dispute.

Industry Chat: Growers, Producers and Farming Industry
2025-08-05 09:00 - 10:00
Join us for an insightful gathering featuring Biznet speaker David Jochinke, tailored specifically to growers, producers, and anyone involved in agribusiness in our region. Limited places, so don’t miss out on this exclusive opportunity.

Stepping up into Leadership - Presented by BGT Jobs + Training
2025-08-05 08:00 - 2025-08-19 17:00
This course supports individuals transitioning into leadership roles or seeking to grow their leadership capabilities. It focuses on developing practical skills in communication, decision-making, delegation, and team motivation. Participants will explore what makes an effective leader and how to manage challenges with confidence and professionalism. Whether you’re stepping into a supervisory role or preparing for leadership opportunities, this course provides a solid foundation for leading with purpose and impact.
Purchase One-Day Course Tickets here
Purchase Two-Dy Course Tickets here

August Biznet Breakfast - B31 Launch!
2025-08-05 07:00 - 09:00 | RACV Goldfields, 1500 Midland Hwy, Creswick, Victoria, 3363, Australia
Join us on 5th August to launch the B31 August Business Festival Program and hear from David Jochinke, affectionately known as ‘DJ’ who is a third-generation dryland mixed farmer based in Murra Warra, in Victoria’s Wimmera region.
DJ is the President of the National Farmers’ Federation and on the board of Grampians Wimmera Mallee Water and chairs Grampians Wimmera Mallee Tourism. He also finds the time to contribute to his local community by taking part in many committees.
Biznet Breakfasts are held on the first Tuesday of every month and provide attendees with the opportunity to hear from a diverse range of speakers. These events are attended by industry across all sectors and is a great opportunity to network.

Leadership Development Session: Elevate - Presented by Committee for Ballarat
2025-08-05 - 2025-08-06 | Hotel Bellinzona, 77 Main Road, Hepburn Springs, Victoria, 3461, Australia
This all-inclusive cost provides participants with two full days of engaging leadership content, all catering, including a three-course dinner, and overnight accommodation.
Are you looking to collaborate with regional leaders who are dedicated to making a positive impact in our region?
The Elevate Program is designed for leaders who are looking for an opportunity to immerse themselves in the principles of
community leadership. This immersive, retreat-style, professional development opportunity allows participants to step outside the day-to-day pressures of their current position and create space to think big, connect with purpose and elevate their leadership, featuring special guest Christine Nixon AO, APM.
With a limited number of just 20 places, the Elevate program offers a unique opportunity to recharge your regional leadership connection.

Customer Service Training - Presented by BGT Jobs + Training
2025-08-04 09:00 - 2025-08-18 16:00
Delivering excellent customer service is essential in any industry. This practical course explores key customer service principles, including communication, problem-solving, handling complaints, and creating positive experiences. Participants will build confidence and learn strategies to manage customer interactions professionally and effectively. Ideal for those working in front-line roles or looking to refresh their skills, this course supports the development of strong, customer-focused service that builds trust and satisfaction.

Ballarat's Best Pie 2025: Awards Ceremony - Presented by Tourism Midwest Victoria
2025-08-02 15:00 - 16:00
Cost: Free
The 2025 Ballarat’s Best Pie Awards will be held on Saturday 2 August at Itinerant Spirits from 3pm.
Renowned cook, author and television presenter Julia Busuttil Nishimura will host this special event.
Each category winner will be awarded a one-off hand-painted pie dish crafted by Ballarat’s ceramics queen Shelby Sherritt.
Meanwhile, the People’s Choice Pie will be determined by a public vote running from 1-31 August, with the winner announced in early September.

Next Level Growth Program - Presented by City of Ballarat (Applications CLOSED)
2025-07-30 08:00 - 2025-09-17 17:00
APPLICATIONS NOW CLOSED
In 8-weeks of targeted business education, coaching and mentoring you will develop the most effective growth plan to help you take your business to the next level.
This impactful program is being delivered by the award nominated team at 25eight with ten years experience in getting economic results for the small and medium business they work with. With a unique approach and proven methodology, you’ll develop an effective growth plan and gain the knowledge, skills and confidence to action it.
For more details about the program including the format, eligibility, selection criteria and terms and conditions, please download the Program Brochure
Whilst the program is flexible and delivered mostly online, by applying you agree to attend commit 2 hours per week to working on the program and to attend each of the Group Sessions scheduled at:

Welcome session (in-person in City of Ballarat, location TBC) -July 30th 12pm – 2pm

Session 2 – August 13th 12pm – 1pm

Session 3 – August 27th 12pm – 1pm

Session 4 – September 17th 12pm – 1pm

You get out, what you put in, as the saying goes and so those committed to being supported to grow their business and completing all aspects of the program will benefit the most.

Ballarat Jobs & Training Expo
2025-07-25 08:00 - 17:00
Cost: FREE
The 2025 Ballarat Jobs & Training Expo will be on Friday 25th July, at the Goods Shed. 10:00am – 4:30pm
The Ballarat Jobs & Training Expo is a careers, training and skills Expo that hosts over 100 organisations and employers.
Industries represented include training and employment pathway opportunities within Ballarat and surrounding areas. All designed to support and engage our community.
The Expo is a great chance for attendees to talk to professionals in industries of interest, attend interactive workshops, team building, networking activities, forums and seminars.

Baby and Child First Aid Training Course
2025-07-22 08:00 - 17:00 | First Aid Training Group, 3/311 Gilles St N, Wendouree, VIC, 3355, Australia
Join us for our Baby & Child First Aid Course – one night only, Tuesday July 29th!
First Aid Training Group’s baby and child first aid course is perfect for expecting or current parents, grandparents and carers. Our course will empower you with life-saving first aid skills and knowledge to ensure that you have the confidence to help your little one/s when in need. In just 90 minutes, you’ll learn the essentials and walk away feeling more confident if the unexpected happens.
Our comprehensive course covers:
Infant and child CPR
Allergies and anaphylaxis
Respiratory distress
Choking
Common illnesses and health issues
And more!
All participants will receive a non-accredited certificate and goodie bag upon completion.

Youth Mental Health First Aid - 2 Day Course
2025-07-18 08:00 - 17:00
Cost: 2 Day Course, $200 per person
The Youth Mental Health First Aid course trains participants to provide initial support to a young person (aged 12-18) who may be experiencing a mental health problem or mental health crisis, until professional help is received, or the crisis resolves.
Course participants learn about the signs and symptoms of common mental health problems in adolescents, how to recognise and respond to an emerging or worsening mental health problem, and the treatments and supports available.

Intervene early
Offer support
Respond in a crisis
Reduce stigma

Held over 2 Days on Friday 18th July & Friday 25th July.
Ready to enrol or like to know more? Contact our team on training@bgt.org.au
We are also able to offer group bookings. Contact us to find out more.

#BallBEA2025 Finalist Announcement
2025-07-17 10:00 - 11:30
Come and be a part of the 2025 Finalist Announcement celebrating the businesses selected as finalist for the 2025 Federation University Commerce Ballarat Business Excellence Awards.

The Executive Roundtable
2025-07-17 08:00 - 17:00
Discover a unique opportunity to connect, learn, and grow with like-minded executive leaders in your community of executives who share insights, strategies and experiences to grow together
No networking, just real conversations. We are not a network group – we a re a community
Peer learning. Learn from the challenges and triumphs of other senior leaders, gaining actionable insights that you can apply directly to your business
We are not a network group – we are a community of executives who share insights, strategies, and experiences to grow together

All Booked Out Fest
2025-07-12 08:00 - 17:00
Cost: Free
Coven Press is excited to be hosting our first event – the first of many!
When:
Saturday 12th and Sunday 13th July 2025
9:00am – 4:00pm
Where:
Inter Club Drop-in Centre, 320 Pleasant St S, Ballarat VIC 3350
Theme:
Themes We Orbit
An exploration of the ideas, thoughts,
dreams and fantasies we can’t ignore.
Cost:
Free (after hours events may be ticketed)
All Booked Out is a book fest for readers, writers, authors and those interested in the indie publishing industry. With an author market, kids’ corner, panels, readings and a book swap on offer, All Booked Out is your haven for all things books.
Taking place in the heart of winter, All Booked Out celebrates the stories and local authors that keep our hearts warm. With the theme of ‘Themes We Orbit’ threaded through the event, authors and attendees are invited to explore the ideas, thoughts, dreams and fantasies they just can’t ignore.
Coven Press invites writers and readers alike to join them on Saturday 12th and Sunday 13th July 2025 from 9am-4pm at the Inter Club Drop In Centre to delight in all things local and literary.

Leadership Training and Network Event
2025-07-10 08:00 - 17:00
Cost: Free
On behalf of the Collaborative Evaluation and Research Centre (CERC), Federation TAFE, Federation University and the Department of Jobs, Skills, Industry and Regions (DJSIR), we are pleased to invite you to a free one-day leadership training specifically tailored for the construction and manufacturing sectors.
This fully catered event offers practical training in inclusive leadership and management, along with valuable networking opportunities.
You will gain insights and strategies to lead with inclusivity in mind, foster a positive workplace culture, and connect with peers across the industry to share experiences and build lasting professional relationships.
The objectives of the training:
• To develop an understanding of inclusive work environments
• Share experiences from senior leaders of inclusive practices
• To develop a network of emerging leaders
Benefits:
• Practical, hands-on learning with actionable takeaways
• Expert facilitators with industry experience
• Small-group coaching for deeper understanding of concepts
• Proven track record of successful leadership programs
• Opportunities for networking and creating professional relationships.
Please click on the registration link to secure your place.
We look forward to seeing you there!

gforce Career Gateways
2025-07-03 08:00 - 17:00
Cost: FREE
gforce is proudly delivering the Career Gateways project – matching employers with candidates living with disability through apprenticeship and traineeship pathways. We are seeking interest from local employers interested in building inclusive workplaces.
Join us for an lunch and learn session featuring special guest speaker, Christopher Strickland from the Australian Disability Network and find out how you can create a dynamic and inclusive workplace.
Lunch to follow.

How to create inclusive guest experiences that drive bookings (Online webinar)
2025-07-03 08:00 - 17:00
Cost: Free
Join Tourism Midwest Victoria for a free online webinar designed to help your businesses create more inclusive, welcoming experiences for LGBTIQ+ guests.
Led by Charlie Douty, Founder of Welcome With Pride, this session will explore how LGBTIQ+ inclusive tourism is not only the right thing to do, but a smart business decision. You’ll hear inspiring success stories from operators who are leading the way in inclusive practice, and discover simple steps your business can take to foster a safe, respectful, and welcoming environment for every guest.
You’ll also learn how to access free, TMV-supported staff training, created to support businesses of all sizes in their journey toward genuine inclusion.
What you’ll gain:
• Practical tools for creating inclusive experiences driving guest satisfaction and loyalty
• Insights into how inclusive practice enhances staff culture and guest satisfaction
• Real-world examples from tourism businesses across Australia
• Access to free training for your team to deliver stand-out inclusive experiences, driving repeat and referral bookings, delivered by Welcome with Pride supported by Tourism Midwest Victoria.
Who should attend:

Tourism and hospitality operators, managers, business owners, and front-line staff across the Midwest Victoria region.
Time-poor businesses looking for easy, high-impact ways to improve guest experience and tap into the high-value LGBTIQ+ travel market.

If you have any questions or require further information, please reach out to Tourism Midwest Victoria at hello@tourismmidwest.com.au

Boosting Your Security Posture with the Essential Eight
2025-07-03 08:00 - 17:00
Cost: Free
Are you a business in Ballarat looking to enhance your cyber security? Join the Lateral Plains Nerd Herd for our next Drinks & Discover instalment, where we’ll be breaking down the Essential Eight.
You’ll hear from our team of experts and guest speakers, who’ll cover:

What these mitigation strategies are and how they can improve your security posture.
Compliance, and how the Essential Eight fits into this journey.
The importance of identity and access management (IAM) to safeguard data.

Alongside these cyber security insights, there’ll be drinks, delicious food, and time to network with the Ballarat business community. Everyone’s welcome, and you don’t have to be a Lateral Plains client to join us, learn, and have a great evening.
We’re looking forward to seeing you there and helping local businesses to strengthen their cyber defences. Registrations are essential, so lock in your spot today!
Oh, and we should probably mention that there’ll be door prizes up for grabs too…

April Biznet Breakfast
2025-07-03 07:00 - 08:30 | Craig’s Royal Hotel, 10 Lydiard Street South, Ballarat Central, Victoria, 3350, Australia
bjhiWe are going to be talking about local spend!
And when we say local, we don’t mean Australia and New Zealand.
The panel led by Michael Poulton will talk about local content and how we make the most of every opportunity.
Bill will be joined by:
Lisa Maro – Renewable Energy Industry Adviser, Industry Capability Network,
Jeff Wanliss – Engineering, Estimating and Business Development Manager, Keppel Prince Engineering
Geoff Crittenden – Chief Executive & Executive Director, Weld Australia

July Biznet Breakfast
2025-07-01 07:00 - 09:00 | Sovereign Hill, Bradshaw St, Golden Point, Victoria, 3350, Australia
Biznet Breakfasts are held on the first Tuesday of every month and provide attendees with the opportunity to hear from a diverse range of speakers. These events are attended by industry across all sectors and is a great opportunity to network.

Ballarat Tradie Network: Knock Offs
2025-06-25 16:30 - 18:00 | North Ballarat Sports Club, 725 Creswick Road, Wendouree, Victoria, 3350, Australia
This is an opportunity to kick back and relax with your peers and a drink in hand. It’s a chance to connect with other workers in your sector, as well as capitalise on a delicious selection of free drinks and free food!

Stronger Together – Empowering the Future of Tourism
2025-06-24 08:00 - 17:00
Cost: $89 – $179
Tourism Midwest Victoria and Daylesford Macedon Tourism are proud to invite you to Stronger Together — a one-day conference bringing together industry leaders, operators, and changemakers across tourism, hospitality and accommodation sectors.
Set against the backdrop of the Goldfields region, this event is designed to inspire connection, spark new ideas, and equip your business with the tools to grow in a fast-changing tourism landscape.
Event details
Date: Tuesday 24 June
Time: 8:30am Registration | 3:30–5pm Wrap-up & networking drinks
Location: RACV Goldfields Resort, Creswick
What to expect

Practical insights on attracting high-value visitors and building brand strength
Strategies for collaboration and shared impact across the visitor economy
Dynamic speakers, relevant case studies and actionable ideas you can take back to your business
Networking opportunities and end-of-day drinks to celebrate our shared momentum.

Ticket cost

TMV Industry Partner ticket: $89
Non-Industry Partner ticket: $179

Together, we’re building a stronger, more vibrant tourism future. We can’t wait to see you there!

NextGen Next Steps
2025-06-19 12:00 - 13:30 | SMB Campus, Federation University, 107 Lydiard Street South, Ballarat Central, Victoria, 3350, Australia
The NextGen Collective is excited to take on developing the up and coming professionals in our city. This month, sponsor and Inspire HQ Director Ange Connor will facilitate a Panel Session with three young leaders, uncovering the secrets of how they climbed the ladder in their own careers and how you can too! Lunch will be included.

Thrive Online - Five Smart, Sustainable Ways to Market Your Business in 2025
2025-06-17 08:00 - 17:00
Cost: Free
Delivered by Melbourne Innovation Centre as part of the Digital Solutions Program, this event series is designed for business owners, entrepreneurs, founders, and go-getters seeking real talk, fresh insights, and meaningful connections. Whether you’re looking to grow your business, boost your online presence, or connect with like-minded entrepreneurs who just get it, Thrive Online is your space to learn, share, and grow.
Ballarat Thrive Online – Five Smart, Sustainable Ways to Market Your Business in 2025 presented by Felicity Pascoe
Stop posting into the void. Here are the 5 marketing strategies that actually convert followers into paying clients in 2025.
Tired of the content creation hamster wheel? This session cuts through the noise to show you exactly which marketing moves matter—and which ones are just keeping you busy. Walk away with a sustainable system that builds your business while you sleep.

Thrive Online - Launch, Scale, Grow: How to Build a Business That Actually Works (& Sells)
2025-06-17 08:00 - 17:00
Cost: Free
Delivered by Melbourne Innovation Centre as part of the Digital Solutions Program, this event series is designed for business owners, entrepreneurs, founders, and go-getters seeking real talk, fresh insights, and meaningful connections. Whether you’re looking to grow your business, boost your online presence, or connect with like-minded entrepreneurs who just get it, Thrive Online is your space to learn, share, and grow.
Launch, Scale, Grow: How to Build a Business That Actually Works (& Sells) Presented by Felicity Pascoe
Forget the fairy tales. This is the real, unfiltered roadmap to building a business that doesn’t just survive—it absolutely thrives. Whether you’re selling products, services, or both, you’ll walk away with the exact blueprint that turned one Australian brand into a multi-million dollar success story.

Farmer's Night Off
2025-06-16 17:30 - 21:30 | Ballarat Showgrounds, 6 Rose Hill Road, Mount Rowan, Victoria, 3352, Australia
In Partnership with Ballarat Agricultural & Pastoral Society
This is an event dedicated to the hardworking, sometimes overlooked, resilient farmers of our region – we want to give you the night off!
Featuring a few drinks, BBQ, music from Billy & Isaac, kids fun hosted by the Art Gallery of Ballarat, a magic show from Ben Cole, plus door prizes from Ballarat Wildlife Park. We want to ensure you take the time to relax and enjoy yourself, so jump in the car with the family and come and enjoy the festivities.
Farmers Only!

The 2025 Ballarat Sleepout
2025-06-13 08:00 - 17:00
The 2025 Ballarat Sleepout is happening in June – to raise corporate and community awareness to the plight of homelessness in the Central Highlands, and to raise funds.
This is a partnership between the Central Highlands Homelessness Alliance (CHHA) of 14 local agencies supporting those experiencing homelessness and family violence, and The Lions Club of Haddon will be hosting this event. All funds raised will go to local agencies to support those experiencing or at risk of homelessness.
We are inviting corporate sponsorship –organisations can donate with or without participation – though we encourage participation. They will be given recognition on a sponsor board and receive a certificate.
We also invite individuals or teams to participate, or they can sponsor a participant, or just donate.
All those sleeping out must register, and there is a minimum age of 18 years.
Cost: $50, Concession: $30.
Children can attend until 9 pm, and there will be entertainment, including four local musical acts.
Registration cost includes the entertainment, evening food, and a Sleepout beanie.
Tax receipts are available, and all donations are tax-deductible. CHHA agencies are registered charities.
All the information is on the attached poster, including links to register.
More details are here: 2025 Corporate & Community Sleepout | Central Highlands Ho
Direct link to register: https://fundraise.unitingvictas.org.au/event/view/ballarat-sleepout-2025

Ballarat Bioenergy Forum
2025-06-04 08:00 - 17:00
Join us for a day about building the Bioenergy Industry in Victoria and how it can help regional economies to thrive.
The Hon. Lily D’Ambrosio MP Minister for Climate Action, Minister for Energy and Resources, Minister for the State Electricity Commission will be opening the forum. We have a list of speakers from bioenergy policy experts, bioenergy project developers and operators as well as academia, Ballarat City Council and the Committee for Ballarat.
