Ballarat launches into a Summer of Fun

New discoveries, exciting food and drink and balmy summer evenings are front and centre of a fresh campaign promoting Ballarat as a visitor destination this summer.

The City of Ballarat is working alongside Commerce Ballarat, Ballarat Regional Tourism and the city’s tourism and hospitality industry to launch a new campaign showcasing Ballarat’s outstanding food and wine, places to explore and award-winning attractions.

Mayor of Ballarat Cr Daniel Moloney said the Summer of Fun in Ballarat will target the visiting friends and relatives’ market and visitors from Melbourne and across Victoria.

“At the end of a tough year, people are ready for a summer of fun: they’re eager to explore and there’s no better place to be this summer than Ballarat.”

“People may think they know our city, but there’s so much more to explore, and this campaign is designed to encourage them to look again.”

“There is so much to discover in Ballarat, from our numerous great eateries featuring fresh local produce, shady and inviting places to cool off and of course our award-winning visitor attractions.”

“Whether it’s couples looking for a place to unwind, or families in search of a new school holiday experience, our warm days and balmy summer evenings make Ballarat the ideal setting for summer fun.”

Cr Moloney said the campaign would be promoted into Melbourne and regional Victoria, with Ballarat residents playing a key role in activating the city’s visitor economy too.

“Ballarat has always benefitted from a strong ‘visiting friends and relatives’ market and we’re encouraging locals to invite their families to Ballarat this summer and experience together all that our city has to offer.”

Commerce Ballarat Chief Executive Officer, Jodie Gillett says the city’s tourism and hospitality industry is a key driver for the Ballarat economy. 

"Our hotels, cafes, restaurants and accommodation providers are among Victoria’s best and play a vital role in the cultural and economic life of our city. 

“When they do well, our city does well. After the challenges of 2020, we look forward to welcoming visitors to eat, play and stay in Ballarat and to make 2021 a summer of fun."

Kate Davis, Owner and Director of Plate Up Ballarat and Eat Drink West, and acclaimed food writer Richard Cornish, have worked with venues to develop a series of menus, activations and itineraries for the summer, embracing what Davis calls Ballarat’s “revolution of food”.

“Ballarat’s culinary creatives have been busy creating, and this Summer there will be lots to discover for everyone. It's going to be fun and relaxing - a throwback to the best Summers of your life - think new spins on retro summer classics, and great offerings for kids and adults alike,” said Ms Davis of the planned activity.

"Ballarat has its own energy, its own identity, its own character. I have been coming here for the food for decades. The welcome is warm, each building's brimming with its own history and the food and wine offer extensive and impressive," added Richard Cornish.