Mayor's message for winter 2026

When winter rolls around, many places slow down, but in Ballarat, we do the exact opposite. We lean into the chill, embrace our reputation for cold and turn winter on like no other city can.

This winter edition of ourballarat reflects the energy, creativity and community spirit that defines our city, no matter the temperature. 

At the heart of this issue is our cover story on McCallum Enterprises, an organisation that is changing lives through expanded skill sets and meaningful employment opportunities. 

By supporting people to contribute in practical and positive ways, McCallum is strengthening our community while also playing an important role in Ballarat’s circular economy. It’s a remarkable organisation, and one that the City of Ballarat is proud to partner with.

We also explore how the Eureka Centre is expanding its reach well beyond its walls. Through a new school program, the story of Eureka is being brought directly into classrooms, helping children connect with Ballarat’s history through some symbols and signs they see every day around town. It’s a powerful way to build understanding, pride and curiosity in our next generation.

Ballarat continues to prove it is a leader in regional sport, recently hosting the Blind and Low Vision Tennis Tournament – the first event of its kind to be held in Victoria outside Melbourne. Supporting athletes of all abilities, and encouraging active and healthy goals, remains a key focus for our city.

And winter wouldn’t be complete without getting out and about. We launch Pride Month, the Ballarat Winter Festival, Biodiversity Week and the much loved POCO Film Festival returns home to the Palace Regent Cinema, adding another highlight to our cultural calendar. 

Be sure to check out the What’s On pages because winter here in Ballarat isn’t about slowing down – it’s about showing up. See you out there!

Mayor Cr Tracey Hargreaves

1. Advocacy Priority Projects Pipeline
2. Helping Ballarat locals thrive through meaningful work at McCallum Enterprises
3. Ballarat’s winter events 2026
4. A home for Australian short stories
5. Ballarat hosts landmark Blind and Low Vision Tennis Tournament
6. Preserving Ballarat’s past, one artwork at a time
7. Taking Eureka into the classroom