What's on in Ballarat

The Ballarat Winter Festival is upon us again and there is plenty to keep the kids away from burying their heads in electronic devices. What could possibly be better in the middle of winter than having a pie competition? Federation University Tafe are conducting this gut warming event and you can vote for your favourite pie and share your pics on Instagram using the hashtag #pieballarat.
There will also be Bastille Day celebrations on July 14 from 7pm-11pm at the Ballarat Mining Exchange. Entry is $50 and the band La Mauvaise Reputation will play their hot jazz and gypsy swing. There is also a a French DJ. Tres Bon! Christmas in July will light up Main Street with the winter wonderlights on display at night too if you have the courage to brave the chilly night air!
July 13 will see Warrnambool artist Didirri play at Karova Lounge. On a recent interview on ABC FM, the young charismatic writer from the ‘Bool was saying how overwhelming his latest success had been. Must get along to this one so I’ll hopefully see you there! It’s $20 to get in.
Friday 27 July has WA bad boys The Southern River Band. Pretty cool bunch of lads; these guys say they are a product of their surroundings and have no real way of describing their sound, other than “A Rock`n`Roll Dance Party”. Sounds like a grand way to spend a Friday night in Ballarat.
Word from Simon down at The Lane is that The George is about to undergo a bit of a renovation. In other good news for beer drinkers of the Rat, The George now has their own GB Lager on tap. Quite honeyed on the palate and light in colour, it is an easy drinker this brew. Around 4.2% in alcohol and a really nice drop to session on. Well done to Simon and the crew at The George.
Looking ahead, 360 is coming to Karova on Wednesday August 22. After his epic #1 ARIA album Vintage Modern and subsequent National Tour, 360’s trademark charm, sharp raps and sonic guitars will hit the town, with long-time collaborator PEZ as the support act. It’s $35 to get in, but it might be wise to get your tickets early.
The Cabaret Club still has live music through the winter months and Shane Gilbert will do his thing on Friday 13 July. Folk, rhythm ‘n blues and rock tunes… with the odd original thrown in. Rick Price is coming to this venue on October 20, so that one is worth putting into your diary and getting along to.
Written by Glen Anderson