Mayor's Message - Friday 24 June

Nearly every week, of every month in Ballarat, there is something going on; a new event, a commemorative occasion whether cultural, sporting or business related and that is a great thing.  

Sometimes it may not involve everyone in the community, but that nonetheless does not diminish each’s importance. It is our diverse interests that make Ballarat such an enjoyable and interesting place to live, work and play.  

19 to 25 June is Refugee Week and a time where we welcome new citizens to our growing community throughout Australia.   

The aim of Refugee Week is to celebrate and acknowledge the invaluable contributions of refugees to our community and to learn about the experiences of people escaping oppression and seeking asylum. It is also a time to celebrate what our Ballarat refugee community bring to our broader community.  

Likewise, Ballarat is very proud of our First Nations people and their significance to not only our local culture, but also their contribution to our community.  

The Koorie Engagement Action Group (KEAG) has just called for expressions of interest for membership. KEAG plays a critical role in enhancing the opportunities for local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents to contribute, participate and benefit from Ballarat’s community life.  

The committee membership is limited, and I would urge people that want to help KEAG visit the City of Ballarat website and submit an expression of interest at ballarat.vic.gov.au/KEAG  

Finally this week, you know winter is truly here when you see the Ice Rink is up in the middle of town. The 2022 Winter Festival is upon us and runs from Saturday 25 June to Sunday 17 July and is sure to bring some warmth to locals and visitors alike with yet another fantastic line up of winter activities.  

This is the perfect time to get together and invite family and friends to visit and help support Ballarat business. All the program details can be found at ballaratwinterfestival.com.au