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G'day Ballarat! I'm trialling a slightly leaner version of the newsletter this week. The headlines are still here, the stories still matter, and there's plenty worth knowing before the big weekend ahead. Let me know your thoughts!
– Luciano Devoto
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FEATURE
Ballarat's five music acts to watch in 2026 have been named
Creative Ballarat
The Be Hear Now 2026 cohort is confirmed: Backyard Utopia, Atomic Entourage, Oscar Perrett, Patlova, and The Darlings Family Trust. Each will be mentored by national acts including Hayley Mary, Montaigne and DMA's guitarist Johnny Took. Patlova has a work-in-development showing this Saturday at the Rat Lab on Camp Street.
AROUND TOWN
Full and Half Marathons sold out, but there's still a race with your name on it
In just three years, the Ballarat Marathon has grown into the fourth biggest marathon in Australia. The full and half distances are gone, but places remain in the 10km, 5km and Mile. The course takes in Sturt Street, Victoria Park, the Arch of Victory and Lake Wendouree across the weekend of 25 and 26 April.
Auto Fest is back this Sunday at Ballarat High School
Cars, motorcycles, food trucks, show and shine, a raffle motorbike and all proceeds going to Keeley's Cause, a Ballan-based charity that buys iPads for kids with learning disabilities. Gold coin entry, runs 10am to 3pm this Sunday 19 April at Ballarat High School on Sturt Street. More info here.
Nyajima Jock is now the second fastest Australian woman over 200m
The Ballarat sprinter earned national silver at the recent championships to claim the ranking. The Courier describes her as part of a new generation of local runners to aspire to (timely words with the Marathon just around the corner). She trains right here in Ballarat. Read The Courier story.
Nominations are open for the 2026 Victorian Volunteering Awards
Know someone who gives up their time to make Ballarat better? Nominations are now open for the Victorian Volunteering Awards, recognising individuals and organisations across the state doing outstanding volunteer work. Worth passing on to someone who deserves a nod. Nominate here.
A critically acclaimed dark comedy is coming to BPAC next weekend
Neptune Henriksen brings 'With Legs Wide Open' to the Ballarat Performing Arts Community in Soldiers Hill on 24 and 26 April. Fresh from Adelaide Fringe, the show has collected five-star reviews internationally for its take on trauma, therapy and sexuality. Tickets from $22.
Coaches replace trains between Ararat and Ballarat this weekend
If you're travelling the Ararat to Ballarat stretch this Saturday through Monday, trains are off and coaches are running in their place due to maintenance works. Trains continue between Ballarat and Southern Cross. Allow extra time and check your timetable before you head out. Details here.
Fuel Watch
Here’s the cheapest petrol and diesel around town:
Unleaded 91
199.1 Pearl Energy, Bakery Hill
199.3 APCO, Alfredton
199.3 Pearl Energy, Wendouree
199.3 APCO, Ballarat
199.3 Burk, Ballarat North
Diesel
299.1 Pearl Energy, Bakery Hill
299.3 APCO, Alfredton
299.3 Pearl Energy, Wendouree
299.3 APCO, Ballarat
299.3 Burk, Ballarat North
FUN
Ballarat Trivia
Steve Moneghetti is one of Ballarat's most celebrated athletes and the Ballarat Marathon course was designed with his legend in mind.
HOUSE HUNCH
23 Lovenear Grove, Ballarat East
realestate.com.au
3🛏️ 1🛁 2🚗 | House | 727m²
Hints: Quiet street in Ballarat East. 727m² block. Good bones, natural light, and a backyard with room to breathe. The shedding out back is the real talking point — tradie, hobbyist or just someone who needs space, it's got you covered. Freeway access for the Melbourne commute.
What do you reckon the asking price is?
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SUPPORT
Support Ballarat Life
Ballarat Life is 100% free, independently owned and operated. We research and curate interesting local stories and list over 100 events in our calendar every week to keep you connected to what's happening in your city. Your contributions go toward keeping it going so we can have more fun and build more community. I appreciate any and all support! - Luciano
WHAT’S ON
Things to do this week
Discover all events, activities, and live music around Ballarat each week inside our events calendar. Check it out!
Festivals & Major Events (3)
Markets (2)
Comedy (1)
Performances (1)
Live Music (14)
Community Events (12)
Family & Kids (9)
Health & Wellness (8)
Art & Exhibitions (2)
Sports & Recreation (5)
Talks & Ideas (7)
Garage Sales (1)
Food & Drink (7)
Bingo, Trivia & Karaoke (11)
Workshops & Classes (14)
Weather Forecast
The Bureau of Meteorology
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Until next Thursday!
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