Ballarat Parkland Ride

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Two of Ballarat's popular recreational venues are good for bike riding. Take in one or both, as they are not far apart.

Victoria Park was modelled on an English park when originally planted in a single day in 1890. It is an expanse of open parkland with broad tree lined avenues, and dotted with clusters of native and European trees, notably elms, poplars, planes and cedars. The park is criss-crossed by sealed and unsealed roadways and pathways.

Lake Wendouree and its surrounding parkland have always been an important area for relaxation and sport. Rowing, yachting, fishing, walking and jogging are popular pursuits here. In the settlement's earliest days the lake was Ballarat's original water supply. Some early brick work can still be seen. In 1956 Ballarat played host to rowing and kayaking events for the Melbourne Olympic Games. The water level of the lake has been low since 2005 due to prolonged drought and climate change.

Ride Highlights

1. Steve Moneghetti Track

The unsealed trail around the lake, used by cyclists and walkers, is named in honour of Ballarat's four time Olympic Marathon runner and signs along the path tell of Mona's achievements and memories.

2. View Point

A promenade was constructed in 1874 and until 1957 there was a jetty here. Paddle steamer trips across the lake used to be a major draw card. A boardwalk was built around the edge of View Point in 2008.

3. Rowing course

The start and finish of the 1956 Olympic rowing course are marked on the path.

4. Rowing clubs, yacht clubs and boatsheds

Some of the clubs and their boatsheds date from as early as the 1860s and they make a pretty sight perched at the lake edge. In 1864 reeds in the lake were first cut back to enable aquatic events to take place.

5. Botanical Gardens

Across Wendouree Parade are Ballarat's Botanical Gardens. On the Eastern side of the lake you can see the cones of Mount Buninyong and Mount Warrenheip.

6. Islands

Several reedy islands in the lake provide sanctuary for numerous species of water birds. You can detour off the main pathway to explore further.

7. Australian Ex-Prisoners of War Memorial

Formally recognised for its national significance this Memorial has the names of over 35,000 Australian Ex-Prisoners of War.

8. Olympic Precinct

The monument here is a tribute to Ballarat's Olympic representatives and all athletes who competed on Lake Wendouree during the 1956 Olympic Games.

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