A blooming recovery

Image of Botanical Gardens staff in the gardens

A new-look Ballarat Begonia Festival is at the heart of plans to entice visitors to Ballarat this year.

Re-imagining the Ballarat Begonia Festival

City of Ballarat Events Manager Sarah Kennedy says this year’s event will look very different.

“We’re shaking things up. Activities will take place across Ballarat and the CBD will be brought to life with high-impact floral art installations,” she says.

“After admiring Ballarat’s beloved begonias in our world-class Botanical Gardens, visitors will be drawn to the action and energy in the heart of our city.”

In another first, the festival will run over three weeks in March. Sarah says extending the festival period will provide further benefit for local businesses.

“That’s four weekends that you can invite your friends and family to visit.”

A garden destination

City of Ballarat Parks and Nursery Curator Peter Marquand says our parks and gardens play an important role in attracting visitors.

“Our gardens set us apart,” Peter says.

“From the heritage-listed Ballarat and Buninyong Botanical Gardens to the Eureka Memorial Gardens and the Sturt Street Gardens.

“Ballarat is truly a unique garden experience destination.”

Proudly Made of Ballarat

City of Ballarat City Marketing Coordinator Lucy Ibrahim wants to change visitors’ perceptions about Ballarat.

“Melburnians and Victorians who haven’t visited for a while will find a lot to love,” she says.

Lucy says the launch of the new and improved Made of Ballarat and WEEKENDS campaigns will build on their success.

“We’ll be telling the stories of our people – what’s special about our local artisans, businesses, activities and events.

“Ultimately, it’s about celebrating the energy of Ballarat life every day and showing off our contemporary culture, distinctive character and diverse experiences.

“Against the backdrop of our unique history and heritage, it makes Ballarat a pretty enticing destination.”

An outdoor dining destination

City of Ballarat Economic Growth Team Leader Kelli Moran says alfresco dining is the future of dining in Ballarat.

“We are facilitating as many outdoor spaces and dining precincts as possible. We want to make it something locals and visitors embrace.“

The City of Ballarat is encouraging Ballarat residents to share their love of our city with as many friends and family as possible.

“Invite them to stay. Take them out to show off our beautiful city,” Lucy says.