Preliminary planning has started on expanding and connecting the trail network in Ballarat East
The City of Ballarat has four trail projects that will connect to major attractions and link up existing and planned trails across the district
these projects will provide walking and cycling options from the Yarrowee River Trail in Brown Hill to Sovereign Hill in Golden Point’ from Sturt Street in the city centre to Woowookarung Regional Park in Canadian; and the continuation of the Warrenheip Gully Trail
Changes in Ballarat East include connecting the Bunny Trail to the Yarrowee River Trail on Queen Street North
the Bunny Trail to Pennyweight Gully–Sparrow Ground Trail
the Warrenheip Gully Trail to Sparrow Ground
and Pennyweight Gully to Sovereign Hill via Lake Esmond
The project will also include the installation of safe crossing treatments at some sites
City planners are seeking public comment on the project locations and details
You can provide feedback by using the interactive map to pin your comments and ideas and by answering a short survey
The second round will include drop-in sessions in coming months
said improving connections will make the routes more accessible for recreational and active transport users
we need to get these plans right and that’s why I’d encourage community members to view the plans and let us know what you think,” he said
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The Great Victorian Bike Ride is set to return in 2025 on 24–28 November
offering an exciting new format while keeping the spirit of this beloved event alive
Bicycle Network Memberships offer benefits to all kinds of riders
The Peaks Challenge Ride2School fundraiser is on again for this year's epic event on Sunday 9 March
The City of Adelaide will undertake a speed limit review to understand the need for reducing speeds to support business and residents and create a safer city environment
Work on the much-anticipated $38.9 million Sydney Harbour Bridge ramp upgrade has begun
the bike lane will link the country's most famous bridge to the bike network in Milsons Point
we launched our Affiliate Membership program
specially designed for cycling groups and clubs
Orange in New South Wales is in line for a nice new stretch of bike path
one that will expand the off-road network and improve access to schools
Work has kicked off on a key Canberra bike route
setting the wheels in motion for safer and more pleasant journeys through the city’s northern suburbs
In a submission to the federal government’s draft National Urban Policy
Bicycle Network and seven other Australian bicycle organisations have called for active transport infrastructure funding to be increased to 10% of federal transport investment
Many of our best bike journeys are along coastlines
or up and down the creeks and rivers that meet the sea
But with rising sea levels some of this vital infrastructure is at threat of inundation
erosion and from changes in groundwater chemistry
Residents can now provide feedback on proposed changes to walking and cycling trails in Ballarat East
The City of Ballarat is in the early stages of planning improvements to the trail network
designed to increase safety and accessibility for recreational active transport users in the area and is seeking community input to progress the designs
these projects will provide walking and cycling options from the Yarrowee River Trail in Brown Hill to Sovereign Hill in Golden Point
or from Sturt Street in the CBD to Woowookarung Regional Park in Canadian
and a continuation of the Warrenheip Gully Trail
Changes to the trail network in Ballarat East include:
The project will also see the installation of safe crossing treatments at some locations
This is the first of two rounds of consultation on the Ballarat East Trails and Connections project
Community members can get involved in the first stage of consultation via MySay
will provide community members with an opportunity to attend drop-in sessions to have their say
Improving the Ballarat East trail network is one of the actions outlined in the Ballarat East Local Area Plan
Cr Ben Taylor encouraged Ballarat East residents and beyond to view the plans and provide feedback
“Improving connections throughout Ballarat East will make these spaces more accessible for recreational and active transport users,” he said
That’s why I’d encourage community members to view the plans and let us know what you think.”
Residents can provide feedback on the proposed changes to the Ballarat East trails network via the MySay page until 30 April
5320 5500
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info@ballarat.vic.gov.au
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The City of Ballarat acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land we live and work on
the Wadawurrung and Dja Dja Wurrung People
and recognises their continuing connection to the land and waterways
present and emerging and extend this to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People
Active transport: Proposed changes to walking and bike trails in Ballarat East include connecting the Bunny Trail to Pennyweight Gully-Sparrow Ground Trail
BALLARAT residents are invited to provide feedback on proposed changes to walking and bike trails in Ballarat East
Early-stage planning is underway to improve the trail network by increasing safety and accessibility for recreational active transport users
it will provide walking and cycling options at the Yarrowee River Trail in Brown Hill to Sovereign Hill in Golden Point
from Sturt Street in the CBD to Woowookarung Regional Park in Canadian
and the continuation of the Warrenheip Gully Trail
the Bunny Trail to Pennyweight Gully-Sparrow Ground Trail
“Improving connections throughout Ballarat East will make these spaces more accessible for recreational and active transport users,” City of Ballarat deputy mayor Cr Ben Taylor said
“That’s why I’d encourage community members to view the plans and let us know what you think.”
This is the first of two rounds of community consultation and is open on the City’s MySay website until Wednesday 30 April
Ballarat East where a shared path is proposed
A shared path upgrade has been proposed to improve the safety
amenity and comfort for residents and those walking and riding in Ballarat East
It is proposed to connect Barkly Street to Warrenheip Gully and Pennyweight Gully via Callow Street
as the first stage of a multi-staged project
that eventually could connect to the Woowookarung Regional Park
The proposed upgrade would assist those walking
pushing a pram and those with accessibility issues
This path would connect recreational spaces with others open spaces to encourage those connections for people to enjoy
It will also provide increased safety
with an improved crossing point over the busy Main Road
The City of Ballarat is now seeking the community’s feedback as to how this suits the local community
The community are being asked to review the concept plans and have their say on aspects such as:
Cr Des Hudson said local knowledge is invaluable for the teams to understand how these projects address local issues.
it is your chance to help shape the path to benefit you and highlight things you would like to see in the area,” he said
“The shared path supports an active and healthy community and provides alternative transport opportunities for those not wanting to rely on their car all the time.”
The consultation will run for four weeks and will close on 27 August 2024. The community can review the concept designs, see more information, ask questions and provide their feedback via the City of Ballarat’s MySay page
Hard copies of the concept designs can also be viewed at City of Ballarat’s Customer Service
This is probably not the page you’re looking for
Party time: Ballarat East Neighbourhood House staff Liz Wade
Eve Bastock and Kay Miller will celebrate the organisation's first five years next week
A FIFTH birthday Celebration for the Ballarat East Neighbourhood House is set for next Thursday
BENH staff are inviting the community to mark the milestone with them over afternoon tea within the Barkly Square atrium
“It would be wonderful for the local community to join us to look back over what we have achieved through the enormous contribution of our volunteers
staff and community members and many collaborations with amazing groups and organisations in Ballarat,” said BENH manager Sarah Greenwood-Smith
“We will have some speeches at 10.30.”
Ms Greenwood-Smith said there have been some key programming highlights since 2019
alongside their regular free and low-cost activities and clubs
“One has been the strategic partnership with the City of Ballarat which has seen the delivery of our governance workshop series,” she said
“It’s been a significant project and has had such an impact on a broad range of community groups
and that has a ripple effect across the community
has been really valuable because we know how beneficial they are not just for the children but for parents for their mental health and social connection
“We’re also really proud of the Ballarat East Community News which is a big project
We’re printing and delivering 8000 copies four to five times a year
Ballarat East Neighbourhood House was first led by Kate Owen and stemmed from the Ballarat Neighbourhood Centre
It originally had an office at Woodman’s Hill Secondary College
Ms Greenwood-Smith was appointed manager in 2020
and operations moved to Barkly Square community centre in 2021
The team of staff has grown from two part-timers to six part-timers
The afternoon tea is free of charge and will take place on Thursday 27 June from 10am to 12pm at 25-39 Barkly Street
Registration is required and numbers are limited to 50 people
Register at ballarateastnh.org.au/about-us/celebrations
Questions and enquiries can be made via ballarateastnh.org.au/contact-us
safe environment for families with young children (aged 0-5) to connect
build friendships and support children’s learning and development through play
At playgroup you get to meet other people going through similar experiences and find out about local community
There are two main types of playgroups in the Ballarat region
Community Playgroups and Supported Playgroups
A community playgroup is typically run by parents/carers or volunteers
Playgroup sessions are generally run weekly
at various locations and venues in the community
Community playgroups welcome all families to attend
there is usually a small fee which covers the running costs of the playgroup
We have many community playgroups in the Ballarat region
See the list of Ballarat’s community playgroups below:
Smalltalk supported playgroups are a free program for families across Victoria with children from birth to school age
A qualified facilitator leads 10* fun sessions where parents develop their skills and confidence to support their child’s wellbeing and development
Your facilitator will guide you through simple practical strategies that can help your child feel safe and nurtured; that helps their language
and social skills develop; and that really get them interested in the world around them
There's even an opportunity to learn and practise these strategies in your own home
parents and children enjoy a range of fun play opportunities and activities together
Parents also find out about local services and support networks in the community
Smalltalk supported playgroups are state funded and free to attend for eligible families
Small Talk Groups are provided across Ballarat
Register your interest below and a Small Talk facilitator will give you a call with further information including session locations and times
* Families are funded to attend our supported playgroups for 2-3 terms
then assistance is given to transition to another activity or early educational program
This playgroup is connected the Ballarat Toy Library and so a different range of toys are selected every week
A casual and relaxed playgroup that meets to play outdoors
Location changes every term so please check the Facebook page for more details.
Contact: ballaratnatureplaygroup@gmail.comFollow us on FacebookSessions: Tuesdays 10.30am to 12 noonCost: Please change Cost to - $5 per session (per family) or $20 for the whole term
Address: Russell Square – Corner of Stawell and Humffray Street, Brown Hill Contact: info@bnnh.org.auSessions: Mondays 9.15am to 11amCost: Gold coin donation
We meet at a different Ballarat park location each term where we connect with nature and each other in a relaxed session
Address: Currently meeting at Brown Hill reserve Contact: Janet Lovejoy Email: ballaratoutdoorplaygroup@fastmail.comPhone: 0401 315 396Sessions: Friday mornings from 9.30am to 11.15amCost: $125 per term (covers part of facilitator's time and supplies)
Buninyong playgroup sessions move around between Buninyong primary school
Please check the website for a term calendar with more information
Playgroup includes discussion of Baha’i Faith
Lessons focus on a spiritual quality and feature prayer and a quotation set to music
If you would like to join for breakfast before playgroup at 9:30am please bring along a plate of food to share
Address: Delacombe Primary School – 110 Greenhalghs Road, DelacombeContact: Nabiheh Nosherwan Email: nabiheh.nosherwan@hotmail.comPhone: 0476 991 172Website: bahaiballarat.org.au/brilliant-stars-playgroupSessions: Saturdays during school term from 10.30amCost: Free
A relaxed and informal playgroup for Grandparents and other families to have some fun together
The session includes time spent at an indoor playgroup
Please bring along a snack box and water bottle for your child
Address: York Street Church of Christ, 410 York Street, Ballarat EastContact: Trish Zukauskas Phone: 0418 355 522Sessions: Tuesdays 9.30 to 11.30am Cost: $3 per session
Currently there is no Japanese story time or Japanese activities
Address: Sebastopol Primary School - Warreen St, Sebastopol Contact: Yuri Matthews Email: yurimathews.au@gmail.comSessions: Tuesdays 9.30 to 11.30 Cost: Free for drop ins $5/$10 per year to cover insurance
and craft to provide a fun and engaging playgroup experience for families with children aged 0-5 years
Address: 65 Albert Street, SebastopolFollow us on FacebookWebsite: kardiniachurch.com/playgroupsSessions: Monday 9.30am - 10.45am & 11am – 12.30pmTuesday 9.30am – 11amWednesday 9.30am – 11amThursday 9.30am – 10.45am & 11am – 12pmCost: $140 per family
Discounted fees are available for NDIS and pensioner concession cards
Our Playgroup welcomes families with children ages 0-5 to join our weekly gatherings
Our playgroup offers the perfect blend of structured activities and free play in a warm
Playgroup is followed by Library Storytime at 10.30am
Address: Wendouree Neighbourhood Centre, 12 Holly GroveContact: KristinaPhone: 5303 0507Follow us on FacebookSessions: Wednesdays 9.30am to 10.30am
Playgroup runs during school term.Cost: Free
These weekly sessions are full of fun songs and rhymes
designed to engage children and adults alike
Designed for children from newborn to pre-school
Craft and special theme days throughout the term
Address: 2/26 Grandlee Drive, WendoureeContact: ballarat@enjoy.churchFollow us on FacebookSessions: Wednesdays during school term
Enjoy 30 minutes of music with your preschool child
Meet and chat with others in the same season of life
Your child will delight in the play time after the music session
Please book online at the one 2 one Church website.
Address: 121 Gillies Street, AlfredtonContact: admin@churchone2one.org.auWebsite: churchone2one.org.au/ministry/ballarat-playgroupSessions: Thursdays during school term 10 to 11.30 amCost: $5 per family
please check our Facebook page for more details
Address: Miners Rest Community Hall, Market Street, Miners RestContact: Please contact through FacebookSessions: Fridays during school term 9.30 to 11.30amCost: Free
sharing Storytime in 21 languages and more. Please contact Nyibol before attending the playgroup.
Address: Ballarat Welcome Centre, Barkly Square, 25-39 Barkly St, Ballarat EastContact: Nyibol DengEmail: n.deng@brmc.org.auPlaygroup Sessions: Thursdays during school term
10.30am to 12pmStorytime Sessions: Mandarin Storytime
10:00am to 10:40amNuer (thok Naath) Storytime
Our playgroup is led by a OSHC coordinator and is open to parents and their children who are under school age (from babies up to 5 years of age)
Address: Kindergarten at 4721 Colac-Ballarat Road, NapoleonsContact: Call the School Office on 5342 0414Email: napoleons.ps@education.vic.gov.auSessions: Alternating Thursdays from 9am to 11amCost: Free
in partnership with Grampians Early Parenting Centre
offers a playgroup for children aged 0–5 that supports early learning and school readiness
Led by our passionate and innovative teaching team
and foundational skills in a fun and welcoming environment
Families can also connect with others and receive parenting support from trained early childhood educators
All families from schools and the wider community welcome
Address: St. Aloysius Primary School, 800 Ripon St South, Redan Contact: Call the School Office on 5335 8177 Sessions: Monday mornings during school terms
Address: St. James' Parish Primary School - 260 Albert St, Sebastopol Contact: Call the School Office on 5335 8750Sessions: Thursday mornings during school terms
9am to 10.30am (please add)Cost: Free
We offer open play and good opportunities for everyone to meet people over a “cuppa.” The playgroup is for babies and toddlers up to 3-years old with their parents
A place for children to play and explore freely
Play Move with Lauren from Coco Sounds is an interactive 30-minute session to encourage children to sing
During the warmer months this held in the gardens and during the colder months this is held indoors
Families are welcomed to stay and connect after the singing session and children are welcomed to enjoy a fresh fruit platter
Address: Gardens of Parker Place 702 Pleasant Street South, Redan Contact: Alison Ford. Email: alison.ford@salvationarmy.org.auSessions: Wednesday mornings 10am to 12.00pmCost: Free
Our playgroup is a nurturing flow of activities that support your child’s natural development
Little explorers can roam and discover our beautiful gardens in a safe environment
Address: 244 Moss Avenue, Mount HelenContact: Call the school on 5341 8188Website: ballaratsteinerschool.com.auSessions: Tuesdays
Wednesdays and Thursdays mornings during school terms
Stepping Stones Playgroup is a part of Hilltop Church Ballarat
and we are simply a community playgroup that aims to be a safe place for parents and children in the community of Ballarat
Address: 17 Dawson Street Nth, Ballarat CentralContact: Shiand@hilltop.churchFollow us on FacebookSessions: Wednesday mornings
during school terms 10am to 12.00pmCost: Free
The Well is Ballarat’s only Children’s Wellbeing and Creativity Hub – committed to community
Our child-led playgroups are run by experienced and passionate facilitators
Our indoor/outdoor centre welcomes all children
parents and carers including those with additional needs or challenging behaviours
single parent and health care card holder discounts
Address: Warrenheip Primary School, 92 Warrenheip Road, WarrenheipContact: Please call the school on: 5334 7294Sessions: Friday mornings during school terms 9.15am to 11.15amCost: Free
To get started the first step is to reach out to the City of Ballarat Community Playgroup Officer:
Email: ballaratplaygroups@ballarat.vic.gov.au
The Community Playgroup Officer will provide support with the following:
There are many benefits to volunteering as a playgroup leader such as building a strong community network whilst gaining valuable skills and experience for future work or volunteering opportunities
Phone: 5320 5820 Email: ballaratplaygroups@ballarat.vic.gov.auIn person: Visit one of our Parent Place locations
The City of Ballarat acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land we live and work on, the Wadawurrung and Dja Dja Wurrung People, and recognises their continuing connection to the land and waterways. We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging and extend this to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People.
Picture by Alex DalzielTwo cats have been saved by firefighters after they were pulled from a burning unit in Ballarat East
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Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueFirefighters were called to Eureka Street about 3.55 pm on Monday
after reports of smoke coming from the roof space
The fire was confined to one bedroom in the unit and was discovered by the occupant when she returned home
Firefighters and police at the scene of a house fire on Eureka Street
Picture by Alex DalzielThe two cats were pulled from the smoking property and given CPR and oxygen on the scene
A bystander provided the firefighters with a slab of bottled water
which was given to the cats as they were slowly nursed back to health
Firefighters at the scene of the fire in Ballarat East
Picture by Alex DalzielBallarat CFA lieutenant Mark Cartledge said the cause of the fire was undetermined
"Both cats will be heading down to the vets in Geelong to be checked over
which is a really good outcome," Mr Cartledge said
The fire is not being treated as suspicious
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Alex DalzielJournalist
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Picture supplied by Victoria PoliceTHURSDAY
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe alleged driver of a Holden Captiva that was involved in an alleged hit-run with another vehicle in Ballarat East has been interviewed by police
The incident happened at the intersection of Fussell and Victoria streets when the Captiva and a grey Mazda SUV collided about 7.25am on Tuesday
A Victoria Police spokesperson said investigating officers were told two men inside the Captiva allegedly fled on foot
One of those men was apprehended by a member of the public on Scott Parade until police arrived
alleged to have been the driver of the Captiva
was soon identified by police before he was interviewed at the Ballarat Police Station
The driver of the Mazda suffered minor injuries
Police are urging anyone with information on the incident or anyone who has dashcam footage to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000
or submit a confidential report online at crimestoppersvic.com.au
while another is on the run after a hit-run in Ballarat East on Tuesday morning
The incident happened at the intersection of Fussell and Victoria streets when a black Holden Captiva and a grey Mazda SUV collided about 7.25am on August 27
A Victoria Police spokesperson said investigating officers were told the two men inside of the Captiva fled on foot
"A 23-year-old Ballarat man was detained by a member of the public before police arrived," the spokesperson said
"He was taken to hospital for observation under police guard
"Police continue to search for the other male occupant of the Captiva and investigations are ongoing."
The incident happened just before the busy morning school run
Police are urging anyone with information on the incident to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000
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Picture suppliedA house has been damaged by fire in Ballarat East
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueEmergency crews were called to the scene on Castle Court about 6.40pm Thursday night to find the back of a brick house engulfed by flames
A neighbour told The Courier they had started to leave for dinner when they were called back to the court by another neighbour
They said there was black smoke everywhere
which could be seen from one kilometre away
The neighbour said it was "quite scary" to see a fire start so quickly and so close to other homes
The fire was brought under control about 7.05pm
with a warning issued to the community via the VicEmergency app for smoke in the area
The neighbour said emergency services were there for a few hours clearing the scene
The fire was mostly in the back section of the house
with the front looking undisturbed on Friday morning
A fence has been put around the front of the house
There was no information on the cause of the fire
but police confirmed there was no criminality involved
Nieve is The Courier's political reporter. She covers council, state and federal politics. Something bothering you in the community or want to see change? Send an email at nieve.walton@thecourier.com.au
File picture by Adam TraffordA teenager has been charged with several offences after an alleged stabbing involving another youth in Ballarat East
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe incident allegedly occurred on Corbett Street
near the Ballarat Leagues Club about 8pm on Wednesday
Police were told a youth was allegedly stabbed after an altercation with another person
The 17-year-old alleged victim from Wendouree was taken to hospital with non-life threatening injuries
while a 17-year-old from Ballarat East was arrested at a property in Ballarat East about 10pm last night
It is believed the alleged offender and victim are known to each other
The Wendouree teen has been charged with intentionally causing injury
He was bailed to appear in a Childrens Court at a later date
Picture by Adam SpencerA home in Ballarat East has been heavily damaged after a fire in a bathroom spread into the roof late on Sunday night
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueCFA firefighters
including volunteers from the Ballarat Fire Brigade
along with Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) crews were called to the scene on Scott Parade about 11.45pm on August 18
after the fire was reported to Triple Zero
"Firefighters arrived on scene within four minutes to find a bathroom fire had spread to the roof and fully engulfed the single-storey home," a Fire Rescue Victoria spokesperson said
"Crews wore breathing apparatus to battle the blaze
and the scene was deemed Under Control at 12.33am."
CFA crews remained at the scene for several hours to ensure the fire was completely out
The Fire Investigation Unit was also called to help determine the cause of the fire
The fire, which spread to the roof, fully engulfed the home. Picture by Adam SpencerNeed more news from The Courier? Check out our WhatsApp channel for stories as they go online, and download our app for breaking news alerts - and daily puzzles
Picture by Lachlan BenceA house in Ballarat East has been gutted by fire
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueCFA and Fire Rescue Victoria firefighters were called to Nunn Street about 7pm on Wednesday
they found a house fully alight and worked to extinguish the flames," a CFA spokesperson said
"All occupants had already evacuated the property."
The fire was deemed under control about 7.15pm and the incident was deemed safe just before 10pm
Police were also at the scene on Thursday morning
however a Victoria Police spokesperson said the fire was not suspicious
Picture by Adam TraffordThe new owners of Ballarat East's Queen's Head Hotel decided to enter the pub industry after a conversation about what they would do with hypothetical Powerball winnings
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueCouple Damian Sebzda and Bianca Easdown are newcomers to pub ownership
and came to Ballarat by way of Bannockburn and Werribee
and Ms Easdown operated a cake business from home while looking after their three children
Ms Easdown decided to study at a culinary school
going on to work in the kitchen of a pub in Bannockburn
and there was a $200 million Powerball jackpot
and we were talking about what we would do with the money," Mr Sebzda said
"I was a little bit annoyed with the boss I had at the time
and I said 'I would love to buy his pub and tell him what to do'
That apparently put a seed in his (Damian) head
not long after we came home he started showing me pubs," Ms Easdown said
one of us gets stuck on an idea and brings the other one around
Much will remain the same behind the pub's 117 year old bar
Picture by Adam TraffordThe couple fell in love with the old pub on their first visit
particularly with its eclectic and vintage decor
"You are supposed to keep your cool when you are looking at places to buy but we were not," Ms Easdown said
"There are so many pubs that you walk into and you aren't sure if you are in a pub or a doctor's office until they hand you a menu."
which Ms Easdown said she will refocus with her own tastes
It will just be pub food," Ms Easdown said
I don't like teeny tiny portions of anything
The couple had a simple mantra when it came to running a pub
"I just want to make good food that people want to eat
I don't want anyone to feel when they are working here that they don't have a safe place to be
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Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe blaze broke out at the property on Larter Street about 5am on Sunday
with the home well alight when firefighters from three Ballarat CFA units along with Fire Rescue Victoria firefighters arrived
A part of the roof had also fallen in due to the damage. No one was inside the home at the time of the fire, according to a post on the Ballarat Fire Brigade CFA Facebook page
A CFA spokesperson said the fire spanned 10 metres by 15 metres
Victoria Police and relevant power and gas company were called to the scene," the spokesperson said
Picture by Adam Spencer"(The) incident (was) deemed under control at 5.25am and safe at 7.03am
The property was fenced off and police tape tied up on the boundary of the property on Monday morning
New era: A century after it was built, the Meagher's Hotel is back serving its original purpose. Photos: EDWINA WILLIAMS
ABOUT thirty years ago, Meagher’s Hotel closed its doors as a pub.
In the decades that followed, the Victoria Street icon operated as a picture framing gallery, it was a land surveyor’s home, and a boarding house.
Experienced publican Anthony Koop walked past the building many times and wondered why Ballarat East had gone without the pub for so long.
“It eventually got the better of me,” he said. “Two years ago, I bought the lease, and did the place up.”
A month ago, Mr Koop reopened the Meagher’s Hotel’s doors as a pub and the beers began to flow again.
“We had some really big nights in the first couple of weeks, with everyone wanting to come and have a look, and have a drink,” he said. “It took off quickly.
“I’m not trying to reinvent the wheel. I just want it to be a country pub that’s warm and comfortable.
“People can sit at the bar, there’s good beer, and ultimately good food. The kitchen and dining room will open later in the year.”
Mr Koop said he has been as sympathetic as he could to the Meagher’s Hotel’s original set-up, and feedback from patrons has been positive.
“The bar’s the same shape, and I’ve used parts of the old bar, like the brass inlay all around the bottom,” he said. “The timber, front and back, is from the old bar.
“I want people to just come in and sit at the bar like we always used to, which you can’t at a lot of pubs now.”
Mr Koop formerly ran the Brown Hill Hotel and the Eureka Stockade Hotel.
His career in hospitality began in 1983, and he has also operated various bars around Melbourne, including at the St Kilda Football Club for four seasons.
“I like pubs, I like the work, and I like the people,” he said.
The Meagher’s Hotel has a pool table, and Mr Koop plans to offer a TAB service.
Picture by Lachlan BenceBallarat Football Netball League clubs are counting the cost of a brutal first week of football
with injuries rearing their head in the opening week of the season
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueAnd it's North Ballarat that could have the most concerns this week leading into their clash with East Point at Mars Stadium
with AFL recruits Denver Grainger-Barras and Josh Morris both hurt in the epic draw with Ballarat at Alfredton
Grainger-Barras went down with an ankle injury and is expected to miss at least this week's clash
who was one of the Roosters' best players with four goals
reported some hamstring tightness in the second quarter and will be monitored during the week
North Ballarat coach Clinton Proctor confirmed Morris would be tested this week
"Josh played out the game but will need to be tested and looked into," Proctor said
"It's sad for Denver (for that to happen) in his first hit-out."
Proctor said he was proud of his team's performance
"The opposition brought a really strong contest and defensive effort
which allowed them to control the ball movement for most of the day
"It was a great effort to wrestle that back in our favour in the last quarter
This week's opponent East Point is also counting the cost with Alex Molan
who kicked two goals in the win over Sebastopol
going down with what looks to be a low-level hamstring
Kangaroos coach Joe Carmody said the Kangaroos wouldn't rush Molan back
"He kicked a couple of goals and looked really good
He's had a couple of issues with that over the years
but we'll be pretty cautious with him," he said
Sebastopol will also monitor Chris Jeffrey who was sore after the match with East Point
Melton's Lachlan Phillips is also under a cloud for this weekend
Picture by Lachlan Bence"He copped a big knock and will be assessed," Sebastopol coach Tony Lockyer said
"I thought Chris did a great job on (Jackson) Merrett."
Darley and Melton also were counting the cost of a physical encounter against each other with both teams losing players to cramp throughout the match
Melton coach Troy Scoble said he was proud of the way his team fought through adversity to get an important win
"We lost Lachie Phillips and we hope he'll be okay
but you do get to a stage in round one where just don't want to take a risk with anybody," Scoble said
"Josh Stewart our ruckman also got injured as well
you get down to on rotation and it becomes a challenge
"They had to fight really hard to scrap a win
it's not every time after round one you have that sense of pride
Picture by Adam Trafford Two drivers were lucky to walk away from a crash on Victoria Street in Ballarat East
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueEmergency crews were called to the corner of Victoria and King streets about 3pm
and was seen on the side of the road with an information center sign crushed underneath
a black SUV was also seen with damage to the front
Two cars collided on Victoria Street on August 13
Picture by Adam Trafford Victoria Street remained open
with traffic moving slowly along one lane on the Ballarat-bound side
but King Street was briefly blocked from Victoria Street
An Ambulance Victoria spokesperson said no emergency treatment or transport was required
Police at the scene said the crash will need further investigation
and urged drivers to "slow down and obey the 40kmh speed zones"
accused of smashing almost 100 windows at a primary school in Ballarat East
File picture by Adam TraffordA teenager has been arrested for allegedly smashing almost 100 windows at a primary school in Ballarat East
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinuePolice were called to Canadian Lead Primary School on Otway Street South about 7.40pm on Wednesday
following reports the windows had been damaged
"The 17-year-old was arrested at the premises and interviewed," a Victoria Police spokesperson said
Police said the teen was charged on summons
A Department of Education spokesperson confirmed classes were relocated to Mount Pleasant Primary School for the day
Picture by The CourierYet another two-car crash at the Eureka Street and Otway Street intersection in Ballarat East has residents wondering what else can be done to improve safety
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueEmergency crews were called to the scene about 1.55pm Monday
Powercor crews quickly arrived to make the scene safe
Police at the scene said it appeared to be a T-bone crash
and urged drivers to drive to the conditions
The crash follows the installation of new concrete islands at the intersection
but neighbours say they haven't stopped cars from driving too fast along Eureka Street
who has lived in on Eureka Street since the late 1990s
said he heard the bang and "knew it was a pretty major prang"
The scene at the corner of Eureka Street and Otway Street in Ballarat East
Picture by The Courier"I've argued it should be a 40kmh zone through here
I don't know if they'd take any notice," he said
"People are just simply ignoring the speed limits
and there should really be prominent signs."
Tammy said she heard the bang and thought her car had been hit again
months after it was written off in another Eureka Street crash
Emergency crews at the scene of a crash on Otway Street in Ballarat East
my car was involved in an accident right there in front of my house - maybe about four or five months ago
Picture by The Courier"It's crazy because we notice how dangerous it is
I think it got to the point where I've seen the guys come out the council
come out and fix that one sign two or times a week
that's how often that sign's being hit on the new island."
It's not clear if there were any injuries - Ambulance Victoria has been emailed for more information
Celebrating 45 years of service, members of the Ryan's group of IGA supermarkets enjoy cake with staff at their Ballarat stores.
THE Ryan’s group of IGA supermarkets are marking forty-five years of providing groceries to the Ballarat community this month.
Ryan family members involved in the business, including Shay Ryan, Ben Ryan, Gin Shillito, Leo Ryan, Keely Shillito, Nathan Ryan and Alaina Ryan were part of celebrations last week, enjoying some cake with staff at the Northway, Pleasant Park, Mount Clear, and Ballarat East stores.
“We opened our first store in Ballarat North in 1979, followed by Pleasant Park in 1982, Mount Clear in 1989 and Ballarat East in 2022,” a statement from the Ryan’s group said.
“Our Mount Clear head office, as well as our Ryan’s Fresh and Management Team, supports our daily operations in all stores.
“Our family and team are proud to be a part of the Ballarat community, employing over 400 locals.”
Ryan's IGA team members Shay Ryan, Ben Ryan, Gin Shillito, Leo Ryan, Keely Shillito, Nathan Ryan and Alaina Ryan with the celebratory cake. Photo: SUPPLIED
THE Ryan’s group of IGA supermarkets is marking 45 years of providing groceries to the Victorian community this month.
Members of the Ryan family involved in the business, including Shay Ryan, Ben Ryan, Gin Shillito, Leo Ryan, Keely Shillito, Nathan Ryan and Alaina Ryan were part of celebrations last week, enjoying some cake with staff in the Ballarat-based stores.
Ryan’s IGA also has stores in Torquay, Beaufort and Colac East.
“Our Mount Clear head office, as well as our Ryan’s Fresh and Management Team, supports our daily operations in all stores.”
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Picture by Kate HealyA FIRST half goal haul from Bryson McDougall has led East Point to a big win over North Ballarat to celebrate the 200th games of Joel Van Meel and Drew Murphy
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueOn a huge day for the club
the Kangaroos dominated the first half with 13 goals to open up a match-winning lead
with McDougal booting seven of his eight for the day before half time
While Ballarat showed the grit and determination they have been renowned for all season in the second half
it's fair to say East Point also took its foot slightly off the gas after the main break
The game was capped off in the dying seconds when Murphy
who only received a call-up to the seniors after the Roosters pulled out of the reserves game due to a lack of numbers
snapped a terrific goal to lead his side to a 19.11 (125) to 10.5 (65) win
For the Roosters they are running out of soldiers quickly and will be desperate for the final round bye to come in order for them to get some rest into some tired players
They now sit just percentage ahead of Ballarat
the team they drew with last weekend and could slip to sixth by the end of the season and potentially face an elimination final against arch-rival Darley
The Devils loom as the wildcard again this season to Melton and East Point dominance after a fantastic display against Sunbury
For three quarters little could separate the sides
but Darley rose to a new level which we have not seen in many weeks
slamming home nine last-quarter goals to run out easy winners 19.7 (121) to 8.8 (56)
It was also a good day for Ballarat which overcame a slow start to comfortably defeat Sebastopol
but eight-goals-to-three in the middle two quarters broke the game their way as they won 14.15 (99) to 9.10 (64)
Ballarat overcame a first quarter deficit to defeat Sebastopol
Picture by Kate HealyEast Point wasn't the only club to have a big day with Redan celebrating the 300th game of Ash Barker with wins in both the seniors and
But they were made to do it the hard way in the seniors as Melton South threatened all day to spoil the party in one of the club's best showings of the year
The Lions eventually prevailed 17.9 (111) to 13.9 (87) with Lachlan Bond and Grant Bell sharing 11 goals between them
The final game of the round saw a blow-out win to Melton
but really it was only after half time they tore away from a pl;ucky Bacchus Marsh
The Bloods though were in a different league in the second half with 14 goals
including eight in the last quarter to win 27.14 (176) to 7.8 (50)
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The petition of certain citizens of the State of Victoria draws to the attention of the Legislative Council the planned building of a major electrical substation by Powercor at 203 York Street
The petitioners therefore request that the Legislative Council call on the Government to intervene and halt the planned building of a major electrical substation by Powercor in Ballarat East as it is closely surrounded by residences and request that the land be rezoned
Create change and stand up for your beliefs by starting your own petition today
Take a look at some other petitions related to causes you care about
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Signing more petitions and sharing them with your friends and family can help bring attention to important issues and create lasting impact
I plan to actively participate in local events
and collaborate with the community generally
Associated with a political party or movement
The secret ballot system was introduced in Victoria in the 1850s
and I do not intend to divulge my political leanings
Preferencing: To be determined once I meet the other candidates
Infrastructure Development and Safety: Investing in key infrastructure is essential for growth and liveability…
Effective Town Planning: Crucial in creating safe pathways and ensuring that developments meet the needs of the community…
Support for Young Families: Expanding access to affordable childcare services
ensuring that working parents can find quality early education for their children
This support not only benefits families but also strengthens community as a whole
The three-bedroom house at 2/68 Masons Lane
located in one of Hotspotting’s “supercharged suburbs”
Affordable suburbs in regional Victoria and the outskirts of Melbourne are predicted to see home prices boom in the next 12 months
Hotspotting’s winter Price Predictor Index revealed 10 areas primed for growth
based on steadily increasing sales volumes over four or more consecutive quarters
Seven suburbs in the report’s top 50 “supercharged suburbs” were in regional areas
Kennington at Bendigo and Leopold and Torquay near Geelong
RELATED: 10 Melbourne suburbs set to go from doom to boom after AFL Grand Final
Suburbs that Victorians never want to leave revealed
Regions where a Melbourne home ‘pays for itself’
on Melbourne’s north and west urban fringe were also expected to see the strongest growth in home values
The report also identified Sandringham and Blackrock in Melbourne’s bayside as “rising markets”
where increasing sales activity continued over at least three quarters
Hotspotting founder Terry Ryder warned that this could be impacted if the state government introduced any new policy changes and additional costs that impeded property investors or the construction industry
The house has $730,000-$770,000 price hopes
He said decisions making it more onerous for people to own a rental property in the state gave the impression the Victorian government were not “terribly bright”
maintenance costs have increased a lot; land taxes increased a lot,” Mr Ryder said
“It’s got to the point where the average investor just can’t afford all these extra expenses
“Contrary to the opinion some politicians may have – they’re not wealthy people
“We’re definitely seeing fewer investors buying into Victorian markets and we’re seeing more and more investors selling out of Victoria.”
Mr Ryder said Melbourne was poised for better price growth this year than the previous two years
“The median house price grew only 3 per cent in the 12 months to May but sales activity
boosted by a solid economy and high population
“Population figures are stronger for Melbourne than for anywhere else in Australia.”
The four-bedroom house at 12 Otway St South
The house has a $599,000-$629,000 price guide
He added that the common thread between the regional Victorian areas that made the “supercharged suburbs” list was that they were all pretty close to Melbourne
an important factor in the era of people working from home part time
Ray White Deer Park director Leigh Grixti said Deer Park would be the “hot ticket” for home price growth
especially with a Costco coming to neighbouring suburb Ardeer
“We’ve seen a huge increase in first home buyers
in young families to this area and I think the driver is it’s such close proximity to the city and still affordable,” Mr Grixti said
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MORE: Cheapest homes near Vic’s best NAPLAN schools mapped
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Mitcham house sells for more than $120,000 above expectations
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Members of the public asked not to attend search for body
nearly four months after Murphy was last seen
Police say “items of interest” have been found in a new search to find the body of missing Ballarat woman Samantha Murphy
with detectives scouring areas of the regional Victorian city on Wednesday
Murphy, 51, was last seen nearly four months ago
when she left her Ballarat East home to go for a run on 4 February
In March, police charged 22-year-old Patrick Stephenson with Murphy’s murder after arresting him in the nearby farming town of Scotsburn
Victoria Police said detectives from the missing persons squad “located some items of interest” in Buninyong
on Wednesday morning during the search for Murphy
View image in fullscreenVictoria police search a dam a south of Ballarat as part of their investigation into the alleged murder of Samantha Murphy. Photograph: ABC NewsFootage and photographs from the scene show officers lifting what appears to be a phone on the bank of a dam, although police would not confirm what the items of interest were.
“The area has been cordoned off and those items will now be forensically tested,” police said.
Read more“The items were located during today’s targeted search
which involved investigators and other specialist units from across Victoria Police and assistance from the AFP.”
Police said further information would be provided after the testing was completed
police said they were “undertaking a targeted search in the Ballarat area” on Wednesday
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“Police ask that members of the public do not attend the search at this time.”
Murphy’s family has been advised of the search
On Thursday morning police said there were “no plans for police to search the same area” it did on Wednesday
and that the investigation remained ongoing
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telling you what’s happening and why it matters
Victoria Police said since Murphy’s disappearance detectives had conducted a range of inquiries and small-scale searches as part of the investigation
Ballarat locals also organised volunteer-led searches in an effort to assist the investigation
Past searches have zeroed in on Enfield state park, about 25km south of Ballarat, and Buninyong
Searches have also focused on the Woowookarung regional park
Police charged Stephenson on 6 March and he was taken into custody
He is due to appear at Ballarat magistrates court on 8 August
issued an emotional plea after police charged Stephenson
saying he hoped the 22-year-old had information that would help police find the body
Police have not disclosed if they know how Murphy was killed but the commissioner
He said Stephenson was not known to Murphy’s family and alleged that he had acted alone
Murphy’s family reported the mother of three missing when she did not return home from a 7am run on Sunday 4 February
She had told family and friends she planned to go for a 14km run
According to the Melbourne Age on 27 August 1920 a public poll revealed the amalgamation was unanimously supported by the more culturally and business orientated West municipality but not so by the largely working class East
The West supported the amalgamation with a majority of 1,120 and the East supported it with a majority of only 60.
On 25 May 1921 the municipalities came together under amalgamation
Councillors from both townships kept their positions for one year before retired and a new City of Ballaarat Council was voted in
The sewerage construction commenced on 6 Dec 1922
Ballarat Mayor Cr Daniel Moloney commented that “One hundred years on to the day it is opportune to reflect on a regional city facing waste challenges of a different type
more energy and waste efficient sustainable environment
the community and the Council all play a role in ensuring in another 100 years Ballarat remains an enviable community in which to work
In more recent times in 1994 it was the amalgamation of the former City of Ballaarat
the Borough of Sebastopol and parts of the Shires of Bungaree
Grenville and Ripon that gave rise to Ballarat as we now know it
This amalgamation was part of the Kennett government’s sweeping changes to local councils in Victoria
which saw the number of municipalities reduced from 210 to 78 (then increased to 79 with the split of shires of Benalla and Mansfield)
According to local reports it was a trying time and reactions to Ballarat’s new ‘super council’ were mixed.
“The joining of East and West a century ago and the more recent amalgamation of local shires in 1994 shows how throughout our storied history Ballarat has adapted and changed to meet the challenges of the day
Text description provided by the architects. On the fringe of southern regional city Ballarat (Victoria, Australia) on a native treed half acre plot looking over the regional city, this house sits in its environment engaging every element of its site.
© Derek SwalwellThe house is wrapped in a locally sourced vertically clad native Australian hardwood board and batten cladding
This emulates its vertically native treed environment whilst light and shadow change on the three-dimensional cladding throughout the days progress
The two main living/ private pavilions are defined by a dark stained Australian hardwood ship lap vertically clad entry/ circulation area enlivening the architectural experience from the hideaway laneway view
The passerby pedestrian is welcomed with an unassuming surprise in a neighborhood of common suburbia
Locally sourced recycled Australian hardwood floorboards line the floor
whilst un-apologetically character filled native hardwood joinery celebrates the craft of local tradesmen and qualities of local wood
Travertine stone in the kitchen picks up on the warm tones but shows many layers of geology adding to the experience of the material
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Forensic assessments being carried out on ‘items of interest’ found in search for missing woman
Victoria police have ended their search of farmland south of Ballarat amid forensic testing of “items of interest”
after finding a phone at a dam during their investigation into missing woman Samantha Murphy
In March police charged 22-year-old Patrick Stephenson with Murphy’s murder after arresting him in the nearby farming town of Scotsburn.
Read moreIn a major development in the search for Murphy, police on Wednesday said “items of interest” had been found in Buninyong
Footage and photographs from the scene show officers lifting what appears to be a phone on the bank of a dam
although police would not confirm what the items of interest were
Footage also showed some searchers hugging each other after seeing the object at the dam
Murphy’s phone last pinged off a tower in Buninyong tower at 5pm on the day she went missing
On Thursday morning police said the search of the area had concluded
View image in fullscreenMurphy disappeared after leaving her home to go for a run in February
Composite: VIC PolicePolice had cordoned off the area on Wednesday and said items they found would be forensically tested
“The items were located during today’s targeted search
which involved investigators and other specialist units from across Victoria Police and assistance from the AFP,” police said on Wednesday
They said further information would be provided after the testing was completed
Detectives had scoured areas of the regional Victorian city after announcing the renewed search
Murphy’s family had been advised of the search
Police said detectives had conducted a range of inquiries and small-scale searches as part of the investigation
Stephenson is due to appear at the Ballarat magistrates court on 8 August
The City of Ballarat has received important funding to commence restoration works on Tourello Avenue of Honour and Ballarat East Avenue of Honour.
The City of Ballarat will receive grant funding of $15,000 from the Victorian Government’s Restoring Community War Memorials and Avenues of Honour Grant Program
which supports local war memorials in Victoria that commemorate those who served in wars
conflicts and peacekeeping operations.
This grant provides an opportunity for restoration at two of Ballarat’s lesser-known Avenues.
The Tourello Avenue of Honour funding will be used to conduct minor ground works and the replacement of 15 English Walnut trees.
At the Ballarat East Avenue of Honour the funding will be utilised in the planting of 72 trees
along what is believed to be the original alignment of the trees prior to the freeway works being conducted many years ago
It will also include the introduction of signage to better inform visitors.
The tree restoration work will be delivered by the City of Ballarat
with volunteers from the Ballarat Lions Club and the Brown Hill Progress Association.
The City of Ballarat applied for this grant based on an audit of our 13 Avenues of Honour
and determining the best fit in line with the grant program.
The City of Ballarat is committed to the ongoing protection and enhancement of our Avenues
This includes advocating for further research
and tree plantings to re-establish missing sections of the Avenues.
City of Ballarat Councillor Samantha McIntosh said that these Avenues are an integral part of our history and it is important to preserve them for future generations to learn from.
"With the support of this grant and some people power it’s pleasing to see our continued enhancement of Avenues of Honour throughout Ballarat,” she said.
Minister for Veterans said the veteran community helped make Victoria what it is today and this funding would help maintain their stories for future generations.
“I am proud to continue the Victorian Government’s support for communities honouring and commemorating our proud war heritage,” he said.
Member for Wendouree Juliana Addison said it is vital to continue to honour the heroes that are part of the community.
“I’m proud that the Andrews Labor Government continues to support Ballarat’s Avenues of Honour,” she said.
more local Avenues are an important reminder that the many soldiers who didn’t come home after WW1 lived in our streets
went to local schools and were a part of our community.
and preserving their memory is an important part of our ANZAC story.”
The planting will occur over the next few months at the Tourello Avenue of Honour and the Ballarat East Avenue of Honour.
The Tourello Avenue of Honour was established in 1918 to commemorate World War One
This Avenue of Honour is located at Tourello Road Tourello
one kilometre west of the Ascot to Clunes Road (Ballarat-Maryborough Road.
The Ballarat East Avenue of Honour was established between 1917 and 1920 to commemorate World War One
This Avenue of Honour is located Melbourne Road Ballarat East
The tree restoration at Tourello Avenue of Honour and Ballarat East Avenue of Honour is supported by the Victorian Government.
One of Ballarat’s historic sporting gems is set to undergo an important facelift.
The Eastern Oval grandstand is in line for repair works over summer to renew and repair building damage that has developed over time.
The City of Ballarat has put the project out for tender and is seeking expressions of interest to complete the works.
Removal and replacement of timber flooring to the grandstand
Installation of flashings to the grandstand sub floor structure
Renewal of ceilings and services to storeroom areas
The historic wooden bench seating is likely to be removed while works are carried out
although it will be returned after the timber flooring is restored.
will be closed to the public while works are being conducted.
Cr Des Hudson said it was vital to protect such historic community assets.
“The Eastern Oval grandstand has been around longer than anyone in Ballarat has been alive,” Cr Hudson said.
“Every now and then it is going to need some love and attention
“It should only be a matter of months before we see it restored to its magnificent best.”
The City of Ballarat's Recreation Services team will liaise with sporting groups to ensure that any impact on programming is managed
It is not anticipated that sporting groups will be detrimentally impacted by the work.
a heritage-protected tree planted in 1874 in honour of legendary English cricketer Dr W.G Grace
It is hoped the project will start in early February
to be completed in time for the 2023 Ballarat Football Netball League season.
The restoration works align with goals two and four of the City of Ballarat’s Council Plan 2021-2025:
Goal four – a city that conserves and enhances our natural and built assets
For more information on this project and to view the Expression of Interest documents, visit the City of Ballarat website by 12pm on 21 December 2022.
For Golden Point: Tess Morgan is standing for Ballarat council in a new ward. Photo: SUPPLIED
AHEAD of spring’s City of Ballarat council elections, teacher Tess Morgan has announced her candidacy for the new Golden Point Ward.
Ms Morgan, also a parent and keen trail runner, held an informal campaign launch last month and said she is putting her hand up for the first time to make the city fairer and safer.
“Like many other families I’ve chosen Ballarat as the best place to raise my kids,” she said.
“I often feel so lucky and thankful to call Ballarat my home. I use council services every day and in many ways we have some great facilities and services.”
But Ms Morgan said she is frustrated some areas of Ballarat get more attention than others regarding footpaths, roads, gardens, lighting, and the provision of free indoor public spaces.
“I want to challenge that,” she said. “I also want to help the Ballarat community feel safer. People are particularly worried about safety right now and I am too.”
Ms Morgan will be doorknocking in the lead-up to the election.
The Golden Point ward not only includes the titular suburb, but parts of Redan, Mount Pleasant, Canadian, Ballarat East and Eureka.
Picture: Adam TraffordOne of Ballarat's largest supermarket chains is set to be a key tenant in a new shopping complex in the city's east
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueRyan's IGA is planning to open a new store in the shopping centre on the former Ballarat Orphanage site
after the group's lease on its Bakery Hill location expires
The development on the orphanage site at the corner of Victoria Street and Stawell Street will include a supermarket
a childcare centre and 109 car parking space
but it is believed the new shopping centre could be open by the end of the year after works started in early 2020
A planning permit application for a supermarket was lodged with the City of Ballarat in April 2018
which had the former orphanage building incorporated into the development
an application was also submitted for the childcare centre portion of the development
Plans for the centre included space for 84 children
Ryan's IGA general manager Ben Ryan said he believed there was a valuable customer base in the city's eastern fringe
so we're keen to find an opportunity to keep serving them going forward for a number of years," he said
The group will temporarily be without a Ballarat East location when its lease on the Bakery Hill bottle shop expires in late April
with the Coles Group recently submitting a planning permit to council to change the signage in the Bakery Hill shopping centre
Mr Ryan said staff from the bottle shop would be redeployed to other supermarkets
An artist's impression of the proposed signage for a Liquorland at Bakery Hill."Our lease at the premises finishes in late April and the landlord hasn't hasn't offered us a new lease
so we'll finish at the end of April at that site and redeploy our staff that are there to other supermarkets," he said
"We'll be opening a new store at the Ballarat East complex when it opens later this year."
a Coles Liquor spokesperson said: "We are constantly evaluating our store network to ensure we are delivering the best shopping experience for our customers
Ballarat customers have the option of finding great value and convenience at our Peel Street South and Stockland Wendouree Liquorland stores
We'll be sure to keep the Ballarat community informed on any future plans for Coles supermarket
If you are seeing this message you are a loyal digital subscriber to The Courier
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Picture by Nieve WaltonBallarat's biggest men's shed has its eyes on future developments to ensure its important community connections can continue to grow
Changes are on the way for Ballarat East Men's Shed
which has secured funding for facility upgrades
President Steve Andrusiak said he had his eyes on a digital future
including how Microsoft computer software and artificial intelligence could help keep their membership database up-to-date
our age group is about 60 upwards," he said
"We have to show people out there that by going digital we are able to keep up with demand and ..
get an accurate description of our daily and monthly attendance."
Mr Andrusiak said he was also looking to update the group's website and social media so it could keep growing
The group has 140 members and about 300 visitors a month
Mr Andrusiak moved to Ballarat from Melbourne
I have an IT background and love to work with my hands," he said
"I kept on moaning that I wanted to get into welding - that is how I ended up here."
Men's sheds were an important form of social connection
Some people who attend have skills they are wanting to pass on
The groups have a number of projects with other sectors of the community
They have built event boards for the library
possum boxes for the Ballarat Wildlife Park and toys which they send to Syria
"We are multifunctional and have skillsets across the board," Mr Andrusiak said
strong winds and heavy rain damaged the roof and guttering of the men's shed
the committee will be able to fix the roof
Eureka MP Michaela Settle said the men's shed was a shining example for Ballarat and the region
Something bothering you in the community or want to see change
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and a report will be prepared for the Coroner
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinuePREVIOUSLY:
Police are investigating after a man's body was found by passers-by on Otway Street in Ballarat East on Saturday night
The circumstances surrounding the death are unknown at this time
and police are awaiting the results of a post-mortem
Anyone with information is urged to phone Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000
Have you tried The Courier's app? It can be downloaded here
and Buninyong for missing woman Samantha Murphy
Picture by Adam Trafford/inset from Victoria Police MediaCommunity members have united to help police search for a missing Ballarat East woman not seen since Sunday morning
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueSamantha Murphy
left her home in Ballarat East at 7am on Sunday
including police and volunteers from the SES and CFA
community members from Ballarat and Buninyong joined the search for Ms Murphy
Some members of the community knew her through her children's school or the community theatre productions Ms Murphy was involved in
SES volunteers coordinate the search from Buninyong
Picture by Adam TraffordOthers knew the Canadian State Forest or Buninyong area well or were able to lend a hand searching on bikes
Victoria Police's Acting Inspector Lisa Macdougall said Ms Murphy was in a regular habit of running or walking in the Canadian State Forest
"She is well known in the community and had lots of friends that knew she would go out walking and running in the morning," Acting Inspector Macdougall said
There were high temperatures on Sunday afternoon in Ballarat
with some parts of the city getting to 36 degrees
Acting Inspector Macdougall said there was "increased risk because of the heat"
Acting Inspector Lisa Macdougall speaking in Buninyong
Picture by Adam TraffordMs Murphy had her phone with her Sunday morning
and Acting Inspector Macdougall said the data police received from the phone informed the extensive search area
spanning from the Murphy's home in Ballarat East out to Buninyong
including at the back of the Buninyong Golf Course
"We're going to look into all the possibilities of where she might have gone," Acting Inspector Macdougall said
The mounted police and police on motorbikes were brought in on Monday afternoon to help with the search in rough terrain
Ms Murphy has been involved with the Ballarat Centre of Music and the Arts community for two decades
BCMA director Paula Heenan said Ms Murphy and her family were "a very big part of their community"
"We're doing what we can to support our students in and out of the studio," Ms Heenan told The Courier
"We're providing them a safe place for them to express their concerns."
Many BCMA parents and volunteers aided the search on Monday
Mounted police search for missing woman Samantha Murphy
Picture by Adam Trafford"We hope to see the whole family back together and happy as soon as possible," Ms Heenan said
Different community members pitched in where they could
has been organising a group of people from the community theatre space to help with the search after the school pick-up
"I have a big group chat going with the theatre crowd helping out as much as we can," she said
SES volunteers search bushland near Canadian for missing woman Samantha Murphy
Picture by Adam TraffordDr Wang Sheludko said she met Ms Murphy while working on last year's Lyric Theatre production of The Sound of Music
"She is such a lovely lady," Dr Wang Sheludko said
about 173cm tall with a slim build and shoulder-length blonde hair
She was last seen wearing black half-length leggings and a maroon/brown coloured singlet
Police searching near Macs Road in Buninyong
Picture by Adam Trafford/inset from Victoria Police MediaUPDATE 3.20pm: Police will continue to search for missing 51-year-old Samantha until nightfall
At a media conference at the Buninyong police station on Monday afternoon
spokesperson Acting Inspector Lisa Macdougall told reporters mounted police will soon join the search
Samantha was last seen leaving her house at 7am on Sunday to go for a run or a walk
Police said they believe she was going towards the Canadian State Forest
and the area around her house is well-known to her
Officers on dirt bikes check a map in Buninyong before continuing the search
Picture by Adam TraffordShe had her phone on her
police on motorbikes and horses will be searching difficult terrain
Dozens of community members have also joined the search
Police urged community members to drive around the area
sticking to residential roads or areas they know well
"They're the eyes and ears - don't do anything that would make you feel uncomfortable
and phone Crime Stoppers (on 1800 333 000) or triple-zero if you see anything," Acting Inspector Macdougall said
UPDATE 2.15pm: Large numbers of volunteers
have been seen searching bushland around Buninyong for missing 51-year-old Samantha
including the dog squad and the police Air Wing helicopter
Picture by Adam TraffordPairs of volunteers with maps have been sent to search trails across the town
including in bushland south of the Buninyong golf course
Samantha was last seen leaving her property on Eureka Street in Ballarat East about 7am Sunday
A police update is expected about 3pm Monday
A large-scale search is under way for missing Ballarat East woman Samantha
the 51-year-old was last seen leaving her property on Eureka Street to go for a run in Canadian State Forest about 7am on Sunday
Samantha was last seen wearing black half-length leggings and a maroon/brown coloured singlet
who was last seen wearing a maroon/brown shirt and black leggings
Picture from Victoria Police MediaPolice and family have concerns for Samantha's welfare due to the hot weather and her disappearance being out of character
Police with the assistance of SES will search the state forest area on Monday
Anyone with information is urged to phone Ballarat police on 5336 6000
Link copiedShareShare articleIn short: Police are searching an area south of Ballarat for the body of missing woman Samantha Murphy.They said the search of Buninyong Bushland Reserve was based on intelligence from a number of sources.What's next
Patrick Orren Stephenson was charged with murder over Ms Murphy's disappearance and is due to face court in August.Victoria Police have called off their search of bushland south of Ballarat for the body of missing Victorian woman Samantha Murphy
Investigators said they were focusing on the Buninyong Bushland Reserve based on "intelligence derived from a number of sources"
But authorities wrapped up the search shortly after 2pm
and said Ms Murphy's body had not been located
was last seen on February 4 leaving her home in Ballarat East
police have searched the Canadian Forest area
their search included parts of the Buninyong area
The area searched on Wednesday is known to contain mineshafts
Those searches involved specialist Victoria Police units and members of the public who volunteered to help
extensive searches have been conducted in the Ballarat area and today we will focus on an area of bushland in Buninyong," Detective Acting Superintendent Mark Hatt said
"We will have a range of specialist resources involved
however as we are searching for Samantha's body
we ask that members of the public do not try and join today's search."
Police continued their search through surrounding bushland on Wednesday
"The Ballarat community is a proud and strong one
and I want to say that we support you during this difficult time," she said
"Thank you for the way you have shown great support for one another through this period of challenge and adversity."
Police are searching an area south of Ballarat for the body of missing woman Samantha Murphy
Patrick Orren Stephenson, 22, was charged with murder earlier this month over Ms Murphy's disappearance
His identity was initially suppressed by a Ballarat magistrate after his lawyers told the court there were concerns about his mental health and fears he would not receive a fair trial
media organisations challenged the suppression order and the application was later withdrawn by Mr Stephenson's lawyer
Over the weekend, more than 100 people took part in a run in Victoria's west dedicated to Ms Murphy.
Picture: Lachlan BenceAnother bank branch is set to close in Ballarat in the coming weeks
continuing the trend of closures across the state over the last few years
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe Ballarat East branch of ANZ (in the Bridge Mall) has become the latest victim
joining more than 100 branches across all banks in Victoria
with the Bridge Mall location set to close on September 15
ANZ has closed 32 branches across the state
since the start of the pandemic in March 2020 with Ballarat East one of another eight to close in the near future
The latest closure comes after Commonwealth Bank recently announced that its Sebastopol and Ballan branches would both close early next month
Commonwealth Bank's number of branches has been steadily decreasing since June 2016
from 1131 to 967 at the end of the June 2020 quarter
The bank's number of ATMs has also seen a significant reduction with more than 800 removed in the same period
Commonwealth Bank said there had been a 47 per cent drop in transactions at the Ballan branch with 35 per cent of customers already using the Ballarat or Bacchus Marsh branches
NAB also closed its branch at 329 Sturt Street
consolidating it with the 1001 Sturt Street location
and moved its Wendouree branch to Delacombe Town Centre
Victorian Council of Social Services CEO Emma KingNAB closed 43 branches in the 12 months from March 2020 to March 2021
with the Ballarat branch to be refurbished as a banking hub and business banking centre late next year
NAB said more than 93 per cent of its customer transactions were now taking place online
while ANZ said 70 per cent of its customers referred digital banking and many of its few remaining passbook-only customers had moved to debit cards for the first time
Bendigo Bank also closed its Wendouree branch along with 10 others across the state since March 2020
While the branch closures make good business sense for the banks
they could be leaving a gap in the available services in many areas
Victorian Council of Social Services chief executive Emma King said bank closures could rip the heart out of a town
Ditchy's view"Bank closures compound the digital divide in our communities," she said
"Online banking can also be more difficult for people with disabilities and older people
they must ensure their clients are able to confidently continue banking through alternative means."
Ms King said governments needed to support people in improving digital literacy to make the shift of services such as banking easier
by supporting the work of Neighbourhood Houses) and by supporting free or discount access to the internet for everybody (free Wi-Fi zones and public libraries
"Nobody should be left behind when services shift online."
The eight-metre-tall Messmate (or Eucalyptus obliqua) is one of 15 nominations that have been received for addition to the Exceptional Tree Register
The Messmate has an unusual structure and is believed to be more than one hundred years old.
who was astonished by the tree’s growth and resilience
The tree spreads 19-metres and is a true remnant of the suburb from the last century.
The City of Ballarat’s Exceptional Tree Register is a formal list of significant trees in Ballarat
The register helps to identify and protect exceptional trees on private and public land.
The Exceptional Tree Register lists 4298 exceptional trees
groups of trees and avenues from across the municipality.
This year the City of Ballarat received 15 nominations
all from community members passionate about trees
These nominations were considered against 12 selection criteria
it must be recognised in at least three of the criteria.
The following are the newest additions to the Exceptional Tree Register.
The Ulmus x hollandica (Dutch Elm) a group of 7 trees in Britannia Reserve Ballarat East.
The 2 Sequoiadendron giganteum (Sierra Redwood) at Central Park
The Angophora costata (Smooth Bark Apple Myrtle) at 12 Dover Street Wendouree.
The Populus deltoides (Cottonwood) at 5 Clissold Street Black Hill.
The Fraxinus excelsis ‘Aurea’ (Golden Ash) at 175 Gillies Street North.
The Quercus robur (English Oak) at 1712 Sturt Street Lake Wendouree.
The Eucalyptus obliqua (Messmate) at 128 Spencer Street Canadian.
The Sequoia sempervirens (Coast Redwood) in Turner Court Brown Hill.
The trees were assessed by qualified arborists and an expert panel reviewed and recommended these trees for inclusion in the register.
It is the aim of the register to recognise and celebrate Ballarat’s trees by promoting and raising awareness of existing exceptional trees.
The Exceptional Tree Register is a working document that will change to reflect the dynamic nature of our urban forest.
Cr Daniel Moloney said the Exceptional Tree Register is a great showcase of the fantastic trees we have in Ballarat.
the opportunity to recognise and celebrate the exceptional trees that exist on private and public land in our city,” he said.
“Every one of our trees on the Exceptional Tree Register has a story to tell and if people haven’t already
they should jump online and discover the significant trees local to them.”
To view the Exceptional Tree Register, or nominate an outstanding tree visit the City of Ballarat website here.
Pictures by Kate HealyThe Queen's Head Hotel in Ballarat East is back open for business with a fresh coat of paint and some new faces behind the taps
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueTaken over by Dean Mangion and Gigi Milone from South Street's Royal Oak Hotel earlier this year
and there's clearly an interest from locals keen to see what's changed - there were a few punters looking through the window when The Courier dropped by on a Saturday afternoon
Already the reaction from locals has been strong
with rusted-on regulars quickly finding a seat back at the bar
and the original ceilings brought up to scratch
A new leadlight in the front bar from a Ballarat designer.The mismatched chairs add to the homey feel in the bistro.The decor is period-appropriate for a pub built in 1907
with an eclectic collection of dining room chairs
and a display dedicated to Queen Elizabeth II on the back wall
Ms Milone said the couple started collecting old newspapers and postcards well before the monarch's death last month
The walls are full of Queen memorabilia and old newspaper articles.She said it's part of making the venue feel like an authentic English pub - Ms Milone is from London originally
and Mr Mangion has worked in several pubs in the mother country
while the Queen's Head's new head chef is from Cornwall
Pictures of the Queen's Head through the years were donated by a resident.Ms Milone and Mr Mangion spent weeks looking for heritage-style light fittings."The Oak came with that homey vibe to it
and I think that gave us the confidence to know that people really do enjoy this
"There are a lot of beautiful stunning modern places in Ballarat
The taps were salvaged from the Royal Oak.The front bar's had a coat of paint.Mr Mangion said it had been a "rollercoaster" getting the renovations complete
but he was grateful for all the local support
"Some of the regulars at the Royal Oak put their hand up and got stuck in when we started talking about pulling down the ceiling," he said
they just got in and enjoyed getting involved with it."
The pub is still looking for a few helping hands for its growing staff
including an assistant manager so the couple can split their time between the two pubs
but the plan is to be open for dinners five nights a week
the natural light - we want it to feel like an extension of your home
"I hope people think we've achieved that - people's local pubs are important to them
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