Culture

You’ll be amazed at how much creativity and culture are crammed into this spectacular city. Once the stomping ground of iconic poets and artists, it is now home to a unique indigenous centre and the oldest regional art gallery in Australia. Marvel at the original Eureka Flag, contemplate Australia’s only national Prisoner of War Memorial and immerse yourself in the music and family atmosphere of the Royal South Street Society Competitions.

Ballarat has a powerful legacy of artistic and cultural endeavour. Goldrush prosperity strengthened this legacy, fashioning bold streetscapes lined with imposing architecture and statues donated by the city’s founders. It was their vision that Ballarat would be a place where the arts were always welcome. Proof is in the regal façade of Her Majesty’s Theatre and on the walls of the Art Gallery of Ballarat.

Ballarat is also one of the few places in the country where art, culture and heritage weave together so seamlessly. The mythology and history of the Eureka Flag are as captivating today as it was 150 years ago. See the original flag and learn about its remarkable journey for yourself.

Explore the cottage home of balladeer Adam Lindsay Gordon who lived in Ballarat briefly during the 1860s. Immerse yourself in the contemporary creations of local sculptor Peter Blizzard. One of his most insightful works is the Australian Ex-Prisoners of War Memorial near Lake Wendouree.