Mayor’s Message – Friday 24 July 2026

Ballarat is home to an extraordinary natural environment, and next month we have a wonderful opportunity to celebrate it.

From 1 to 7 August, the inaugural Ballarat Biodiversity Week will bring together community groups, environmental organisations, experts and residents for a city-wide celebration of the plants, animals, waterways, landscapes and people that make our region so special.

This exciting new initiative has grown from the strong partnerships between the City of Ballarat and our local environmental community, whose passion and dedication continue to play a vital role in protecting and enhancing our natural assets.

The week also marks two important milestones: two years since the adoption of the City of Ballarat Biodiversity Strategy: Healing Country Together, and the 10th anniversary of Woowookarung Regional Park. Both achievements reflect our community's ongoing commitment to caring for and restoring the natural environment for future generations.

With more than 40 events on offer, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you are a lifelong nature enthusiast, a keen gardener, a citizen scientist, or simply looking to learn more about the environment around you, Ballarat Biodiversity Week provides countless opportunities to get involved.

One of the highlights will be the Look How Far We've Come: Ballarat's Biodiversity Story exhibition at Ballarat Town Hall. Through powerful images and stories, it will showcase the challenges, achievements and community efforts that have helped nature recover and thrive across our municipality.

Throughout the week, residents will also be encouraged to participate in the Ballarat Biodiversity Week BioBlitz by recording local plants, animals and fungi using the iNaturalist app. It is a simple yet meaningful way for people of all ages to contribute to our understanding of local biodiversity.

Importantly, the program has been designed to be accessible and inclusive, with many free or low-cost events available and a range of indoor and outdoor activities suitable for different interests and weather conditions.

Ballarat's biodiversity contributes enormously to our city's identity, liveability and wellbeing. It supports healthy ecosystems, provides spaces for recreation and connection, and helps create the unique character that makes Ballarat such a great place to live. 

Mayor Cr Tracey Hargreaves