World-class wrestling entertainment coming to Civic Hall

Civic Hall is set to be transformed into a high-octane battleground this year when professional wrestling returns to Ballarat.

Oceania Pro Wrestling (OPW) will once again bring world-class wrestling entertainment to Ballarat on the weekend of 30 August – 1 September 2024 for its 'Gold Rush' weekend of events.  

The Gold Rush weekend will feature three nights of top-tier wrestling and officially launch OPW's partnership with the international promotion Major League Wrestling (MLW). In addition, a major international star, to be revealed soon, will headline one night of the event.

Fans can anticipate high-level competition as OPW's fan-favourite stars go head-to-head with MLW's formidable international roster. With multiple championship belts on the line, the bouts promise high-stakes drama to captivate crowds.

In addition to premium in-ring action, attendees will have opportunities to engage directly with larger-than-life competitors during meet and greets and other fan events organised throughout the city that weekend.

City of Ballarat Mayor, Cr Des Hudson said the wrestling event was a great way to diversify the usage of Civic Hall.

"It certainly looms as an event with a difference and we look forward to having a packed Civic Hall for what is certain to be quite a spectacle," he said.

"We understand wrestling has a significant following, and I’m looking forward to having it broadcast from within Civic Hall, showcasing Ballarat throughout Australia and the rest of the world."

Oceania Pro Wrestling Managing Director Cameron Vale said he was excited to bring more wrestling action to Ballarat.

"We are thrilled to bring our electrifying OPW action back to the passionate fans in Ballarat," he said.  

"Teaming up with a premier wrestling organisation like MLW will allow us to deliver even more hard-hitting, dramatic championship action to our loyal fans. We can't wait for fans to witness our homegrown OPW athletes battle MLW's international all-star roster for three nights of must-see title fights."

Major League Wrestling CEO Court Bauer said this will be a world class event, not to be missed.

"This partnership and weekend of matches packs a punch, much like the world class fighters fans will experience from Major League Wrestling and OPW,” he said.

“We're excited to work with OPW, celebrate combat sports, and bring the incredible fans of Australia matches that the world will be talking about."

The City of Ballarat secured the event via its Event Development Fund.

Tickets for the ‘Gold Rush’ weekend of events will go on sale in April, with an early access offer to those who pre-register at www.oceaniaprowrestling.com.