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Baldy Top Lookout — Image credit: Tourism and Events Queensland

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Baldy Top Lookout

The best views in the Quilpie Shire are at Baldy Top lookout, along the Natural Sciences Loop and Warrego Way. Located 7.4 kilometres from Quilpie on the Toompine Road rests a red rocky formation, aptly named Baldy Top Lookout, one of the most elevated points in South West Queensland. Explore caves and crevices, untouched by civilisation whilst traversing this magnificent boulder formation which was created naturally over millions of years. A climb to the summit of Baldy Top is a relatively easy ten minute scramble. Although Baldy Top appears quite small in its surroundings, once atop this hill, one is amazed by the breathtaking panoramic landscapes that stretch as far as your imagination. Baldy Top is a photographer’s delight either at sunrise or sunset. As ancient as time itself, Baldy Top offers visitors stunning sunsets whilst experiencing the serenity and solitude of the Outback. You have not seen the Australian Outback until you have seen it from Baldy Top.

Quilpie QLD

Bales Beach

Natural Attractions

Bales Beach

Bales Beach is one of the few accessible surfing beaches along the south coast of the island. It is located just 1 km off the Seal Bay road and has a small car park providing access to the main beach but no other facilities. It's a neighbour to the popular Kangaroo Island attraction Seal Bay, but you're unlikely to find any sea lions at Bales Beach. Instead, there's just a long stretch of sand that's good for walks. While you're occupying your time at the beach, keep in mind that fishing is one activity that is not permitted. The restriction is due to the site being part of an Aquatic Reserve that is being used to protect the breeding colony of Australian sea lions in the area. The reserve is itself an extension of the conservation park at Seal Bay.

Seal Bay SA

Balgal Beach

Natural Attractions

Balgal Beach

Balgal Beach forms part of the popular Northern Beaches district of Townsville North Queensland. Offering a superb sand beach and secure swimming in the stinger net from November to May, Balgal is ideal for a relaxing day by the ocean or a fun way to spend time with the whole family. The area is also a renowned river fishing location. For those wishing to explore deeper and head out to the Great Barrier Reef, Balgal Beach provides excellent boat ramp facilities and easy access to the spectacular Palm Island group. There are a number of licensed cafés and accommodation available in the area including holiday units and designated tent camping and vehicle camping areas. Please note, for access to the free RV camping site you must book online.

Balgal Beach QLD

Balingup entry statement — Image credit: Tourism WA

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Balingup Heritage Precinct

The Balingup Heritage Precinct includes both the heritage exhibition located at the back of the Packing Shed and the Balingup Avenue of Honour. Take the time to explore the Packing Shed and you’ll find that − at least for history lovers − the best has been saved for last. At the back of the old Pattersons Packing Shed is the Balingup Heritage Exhibition, which offers a fascinating insight into the early life of the town. The attractive exhibition includes both static and themed displays that showcase the working and social life of the town. Explore the room and you’ll find a replica classroom, as well as a replica World War 1 dugout and uniform that brings to life the Wall of Remembrance. The exhibition highlights five of the original homesteads all built prior to 1900. The story is also told of Shire Councillor Lieutenant Colonel Noel Brazier who is affectionately known as the Father of the 10th Light Horse. The oak-lined avenue of honour is a tribute to those who lost their lives in World War One. The names of people who sacrificed themselves are engraved on plaques at the base of the trees.

Balingup WA

Nearby Andrews Point Lookout at Cape Hillsborough — Image credit: Mackay Isaac Tourism

Natural Attractions

Ball Bay

Ball Bay is a picturesque beach settlement 35 kilometres north of Mackay, which offers secluded camping on a small grassy campground. Ball Bay, you can fish off the beach in this small piece of paradise, surrounded by lush bushland and offers easy and close access to Cape Hillsborough National Park walking tracks. Flatback turtles have been sighted hatching in the early hours of the summer months.

Ball Bay QLD

Ballaarat Engine — Image credit: City of Busselton

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Ballaarat Engine

The much-loved Ballaarat locomotive is the oldest Australian-built steam locomotive still extant and the first steam engine to operate in Western Australia. It was built in Ballarat, Victoria and named after the town using the original spelling. The engine was commissioned by the Western Australian Timber Company (WATC) which had been awarded a milling concession by the Colony's governor. The Ballaarat arrived by ship to the Lockeville Jetty in Wonnerup in 1871. It hauled timber 19 kilometres in the Jarrahwood State Forest until the mill closed in 1887. The Ballaarat has a colourful history. Burnt in a shed and left in a paddock, donated to the Council who donated it to the Western Australian Museum around 1924. The Museum received it but found it too big to move and too expensive to restore, so it was sent to the Western Australian Government Rail Yards. In 1929, it featured in the State Centenary Parade before returning to the Midland railyards. The Busselton community lobbied for its return and after three years, it was sent home and installed in Victoria Square in 1937. In 2012, it was disassembled and lovingly put back together taking over 550 volunteer hours, local business support and grants. In 2024, a 3D model of the engine was developed alongside stories and information. Please find more information on the website.

Busselton WA

The Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute in all it's glory!

Entertainment Venues

Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute

Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute (BMI), sitting proudly under the watchful eye of Minerva, has welcomed a diverse group of people through its doors, from the founding fathers, to miners and others seeking knowledge through education. Since 1859, the BMI has been used for balls, lectures, markets, cinema, library, concerts and cultural events. Following a magnificent restoration in 2013, the BMI continues its significant role in Ballarat’s rich cultural heritage. All are welcome to visit for tours, cultural events and exhibitions, and to hire our unique function rooms. The BMI is a special venue for holding celebrations, weddings, conferences and performances.

Ballarat Central VIC

Balladonia Heritage Museum

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Balladonia Heritage Museum

The Balladonia Heritage Museum is located in the Balladonia Hotel Motel complex. They have spent years collecting interesting artifacts and curating a range of informative displays that give visitors an understanding of the local area and history. You can easily spend an hour or two rifling through the various exhibits and learning fun facts about this unique part of Australia. The museum covers a range of interesting subjects including Aboriginal heritage, European exploration and settlement, Afghan cameleers, artifacts from settler's life, the history of the Royal Flying Doctor Service, construction of the Eyre Highway, an around Australia car race and information about local flora and fauna. The main focus of the museum is on the fiery re-entry of NASA's (National Aeronautics and Space Administration) Skylab space station in 1979 (which incidentally coincided with Balladonia's centenary of settlement). The collection includes documents from NASA, a recreation of actual events, photos and related ephemera. There is even a life-sized replica of some of the debris sitting on top of their roof! After leaving Norseman, Balladonia is one of the first stops travelling east. It is at the beginning of one of the longest, straight stretches of road in the world.

Balladonia WA

Ballan Historic Tree Walk - Trees 19 - Monterey Cypress — Image credit: Ballan Arboretum Group

Natural Attractions

Ballan Historic Tree Walk

The Ballan Historic Tree Walk is a self-guided tour through the historic township of Ballan. This self-guided tour includes QR codes that link to a webpage of information on each tree. Wander around at your own pace and follow the map at your leisure. Use the printable map and guide or view it online to guide your experience. Simply locate a tree with a QR code, scan it on your phone, and learn all about the tree species, including its common name, origin, horticultural information, pictures of the tree, interesting facts and stories. An audio tour is also available on the website where you can listen to the information about the trees. The webpage will guide you to your next stop when you select 'next tree'. Follow the map or choose your own adventure and find all 29 trees across the town. You can start the tour anywhere you like, but we suggest starting at Ballan Railway Station. The Ballan Historic Tree Walk is an initiative of the Ballan Arboretum Group to create a leisurely walk through the township of Ballan, noting trees of significance.

Ballan VIC

Ballan Mineral Springs

Natural Attractions

Ballan Mineral Springs

Adjacent to the Bostock Reservoir, the small Ballan Mineral Reserve has spring water comparable to that of Hepburn Springs. Access is via a steep path and vehicle access is limited. For those willing to find their way down the slope, they will be treated to views of the river valley lying close to the riverbed. The indigenous sculpture Brim Brim (the Wadawurrung word for spring waters), reconnects the two mineral springs sites at Spargo Creek and Ballan with the Moorabool River and broader landscapes of the area and acknowledges the Indigenous connection to the sites. The sculptural installations consist of two interconnected works made from 120 year old locally sourced red gum, that reflect the ecological and cultural values of the mineral springs and the Moorabool River.

Ballan VIC

Ballandean Pyramid — Image credit: Granite Belt Wine & Tourism

Landmarks and Buildings

Ballandean Pyramid

It’s certainly a surprise to encounter a giant stone pyramid south of Stanthorpe near the village of Ballandean! Built from blocks of local granite, the pyramid stands 17.5 metres in height, 30 metres square at the base and contains 7,500 tonnes of rock. It was built using an excavator and dump truck and took eight months to complete. Why is it there? The land owner had excess granite from excavations on the property and he built it just because he could! We’re certainly glad he did, as it’s an unusual landmark and quite incredible to see sitting against the backdrop of Girraween National Park. The pyramid can be seen through the trees along the highway south of Ballandean. To reach the pyramid for a closer look, turn off the highway (eastward towards the Ballandean Tavern) on Eukey road, then turn immediately right onto Jacobsens Road. Follow Jacobsons Road for 1.7km until you reach the giant pyramid on the right. The pyramid sits on private property, so no approaching the pyramid, however the roadside is close enough to capture a view and a photo of this impressive site.

Ballandean QLD

Ballarat Aquatic and Lifestyle Centre

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Ballarat Aquatic and Lifestyle Centre

The Ballarat Aquatic and Lifestyle Centre, or BALC, is here for you. Located in the heart of Ballarat, the centre provides a welcoming environment for members and visitors of all ages and stages with plenty of options to keep you moving. The centre's aquatic facilities include a heated 50 metres pool, heated 25 metres pool, heated rehabilitation and multipurpose pool, spa, steam room, and Learn to Swim pool with frog slide. Their Health Club is equipped with the latest machines and weight training equipment, and their fully qualified trainers are always on hand to guide you through your fitness journey Over 80 weekly group fitness classes are held in our modern studios, including their cycle studio with 30 of the latest Technogym bikes to give you the best indoor cycling experience in town. Creche services, café and retail shop are also available onsite. The team can't wait to welcome you.

Lake Gardens VIC

Airmen recording message by Morse Code

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Ballarat Aviation Museum

Ballarat Aviation Museum is located within the grounds of the Ballarat Aerodrome. The museum is dedicated to the history of aviation. It has a great collection of aircraft, engines, aviation radios, cameras and aviation memorabilia. The Ballarat Aerodrome was a Royal Australian Air Force base during World War Two for the No.1 Wireless and Air Gunners school, and post war the School of Radio. Learn about the stories of nine Ballarat men who completed their training between 1940 and 1945. The training in Morse Code was one of the skills required by these men. You will have the opportunity to test your skills relaying a message in Morse Code.

Mitchell Park VIC

Ballarat Bird World

Zoos, Sanctuaries, Aquariums and Wildlife Parks

Ballarat Bird World

Take a stroll along the raised walkway past the landscaped waterfall and gardens to view the birds on display. Some of the varieties on display include Major Mitchell and Red Tailed Black cockatoos. An added attraction is the full-sized adult animatronic Triceratops dinosaur and baby Triceratops and T-Rex dinosaurs. Children will enjoy the fossil dig table and the timber maze. Find the three stamps in the maze to win a small prize. There is also an outdoor picnic area next to the maze. The nine hole outdoor mini golf course is now open and provides lots of fun for all ages. The café serves all-day cake and coffee. Ice creams, hot chips and nuggets, wedges, pies and sausage rolls and cold drinks are also available. The outdoor deck provides an opportunity to get up close to the native birds in the area and listen to the waterfall in the background. The gift shop stocks a variety of bird souvenirs to choose from.

Mount Helen VIC

Ballarat Botanical Gardens

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Ballarat Botanical Gardens

Located on the western shore of Lake Wendouree, approximately four kilometres from Ballarat's city centre, the Gardens are a popular and invaluable heritage and recreational location for residents and visitors. Established in 1858 it is one of Victoria's oldest Botanical Gardens. The gardens are home to an extensive array of flowering plants, exotic trees, floral bedding displays and an extensive collection of Italian marble statues throughout. Experience the stunning Robert Clark Conservatory and walk in amongst the changing seasonal displays of the celebrated collections of hydrangeas, fuchsias, and chrysanthemums throughout the year, and their world renown tuberous Begonia Collection mid-March to mid-April. The Ballarat Botanical Gardens welcomes thousands of visitors each year to City of Ballarat's much-loved Summer Sundays picnic and live music events during January. It also attracts more than 60,000 for the three-day annual Ballarat Begonia Festival over the Labour Day weekend in March. Robert Clark Conservatory is open 9.00am to 6.00pm daily, excluding Christmas Day. The Statue Pavilion is open from 9.00am to 4.30pm daily, excluding Christmas Day.

Lake Wendouree VIC

Ballarat Old Cemetery 2 — Image credit: Ballarat Cemeteries

Natural Attractions

Ballarat Cemeteries

Step back in time and explore Ballarat's rich heritage at Ballarat Old Cemetery, home to over 30,000 interments telling the story of the city's gold rush beginnings. Wander through peaceful gardens and admire a range of striking heritage features, including the impressive front gates, the graves and monuments of the soldiers and diggers involved in the 1854 Eureka uprising, a decorative fountain, a ceremonial oven in the Chinese section, and a beautifully restored historic rotunda. Visit the Information Centre at the Old Cemetery, your gateway to Ballarat's past. Discover a wealth of stories, records, and historical insights, or use the touch screen computer to research your family history. Learn about the enduring legacy of the city's early European and Chinese settlers. All resources are free to explore, with donations welcomed to help preserve the cemetery and its services. Continue the journey just two kilometres away at the Ballarat New Cemetery, where history meets natural beauty. Stroll among monuments encompassing historic examples from the High Victorian era to current, contemporary designs. Take in sweeping, elevated views of the surrounding countryside, and admire heritage features set within the cemetery's magnificent botanic gardens, featuring more than 2,000 roses in bloom from November to June.

Invermay Park VIC

Darrell Lea Ballarat Chocolate Experience Store — Image credit: Darrell Lea Ballarat

Shopping and Markets

Ballarat Chocolate Experience Store

Welcome to the Ballarat Chocolate Experience Store, where every visit promises a sweet adventure. Indulge your senses in a world of decadent chocolates, delightful lollies and irresistible treats that will make your taste buds dance with joy. All day lunch is available, choose from loaded waffles, toasties, pizza subs and much more. Every corner is filled with the magic of confectionery delights. From scrumptious chocolates to mouth-watering sweets and desserts, they've got something to satisfy every craving, including creamy gelato, indulgent cakes and slices, rich coffee, and a variety of gourmet foods. And that's not all – brace yourself for a taste sensation like no other with their monster shakes, towering sundaes and velvety hot chocolates that will warm your soul. But wait, there's more. Discover the Sweet Owl Hampers, a beautifully curated selection of goodies that make the perfect gift for any occasion. Whether you're treating yourself or someone special, these hampers are guaranteed to spread sweetness wherever they go locally and across Australia using local Australian products. So why wait? Join the team at Ballarat Chocolate Experience Store, your ultimate destination for all things delicious. Come hungry, leave happy – and with a heart full of dessert-induced joy for the young and young at heart.

Ballarat Central VIC

Karts — Image credit: Jake Plumridge

Amusement and Theme Parks

Ballarat Indoor Go Karts, Laserforce and Entertainment Centre

Ballarat Indoor Go Karts and Laserforce delivers high-energy indoor go-karting, laser tag missions and engaging arcade games, offering all-weather fun for families, groups and travellers. As one of Ballarat's top indoor attractions, it provides unforgettable entertainment and an action-packed option for visitors seeking the best things to do in the Ballarat region. Its standout features include top-performing karts designed for comfort and safety, adult and junior-friendly sessions, and the indoor track that lets guests enjoy the thrill of racing in any weather. The Laserforce arena delivers energetic, mission-based gameplay with dynamic lighting and interactive targets that draw players into the action, while the arcade area offers classic favorites and modern skill-based games that keep the fun going between sessions. With a welcoming team, dedicated party spaces and a strong reputation as one of Ballarat's most engaging family entertainment centres, the venue creates excitement and inclusivity for all. Located close to popular attractions such as Sovereign Hill, the Ballarat Wildlife Park and the many experiences of central Ballarat, the venue offers free parking and is an ideal addition to a day of local exploring. As a long-running, family-owned business with a proud local presence, it is known for delivering safe, fun and energetic experiences. Visitors are invited to explore what the venue offers and start planning their next action-packed experience.

Ballarat North VIC

BPAC Chapel — Image credit: BPAC

Entertainment Venues

Ballarat Performing Arts Centre

Ballarat Performing Arts Centre is a multi-venue performing arts and community hub. Including their stunning Chapel venue with its incredible acoustics and beautiful features, and several other spaces available for hire for performances, rehearsals and community events. Keep an eye on their website for upcoming shows and events, and how to get involved.

Soldiers Hill VIC

Ballarat Public Art Walks

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Ballarat Public Art Walks

Explore Ballarat's Public Art Collection, which holds over 120 artworks and is one of the largest, and most significant regional public art collections in Australia. Discover Ballarat's dynamic history and creative legacy through a series of self-guided public art walks. There are four self-guided walking tours that cover statues along Sturt Street, Contemporary artworks, War History and Lake Wendouree. The Contemporary Walk includes First Nations artist Deanne Gilson's Acknowledgement of Country Mural: Mundi-gurrk and Wurring, wurring Family Gathering by the Biyal. Located within the Ballarat Town Hall's Visitor Information Centre's Bath Lane entrance foyer, it consists of 20 paintings by the Wadawurrung artist which have been printed on 220 metres of vinyl. These self-guided walking tours are available for collection from both the Ballarat Visitor Information Centre located in the Ballarat Town Hall, and at the Ballarat Botanical Gardens Visitor information Centre located at the Robert Clark Centre directly opposite the Conservatory. You can also find digital copies available via the website.

Ballarat Central VIC

Ballarat Real Tennis Club — Image credit: Maggie Henderson-Tew

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Ballarat Real Tennis Club

The Ballarat Real Tennis Club proudly celebrates its Goldrush heritage. Real Tennis, Australia's first racquet sport, began in the 1860s on Main Road, predating modern tennis. Today, Real Tennis is a niche sport, with only five venues nationwide, three in Victoria. Walk-in visitors and pre-booked players are welcome daily. Watch a match or book an introduction by contacting the operator via phone or email. Members of the club can book using the website. Non-members pay guest fees, while member subscriptions support full-time club professionals who welcome, coach, find opponents, maintain the court and equipment and make every ball used. Community engagement events include classes for school groups, collaborative events with local tennis and squash clubs, workshops in ball-making and racquet-stringing, and tailored programs for juniors, women and older adults to maximize inclusion. With origins stretching back around 800 years into medieval Europe, Real Tennis is the oldest racquet sport. The sport's complex rules focus on strategy and experience rather than power or speed. Its unique handicapping system lets players of all ages and abilities compete equally, encouraging intergenerational activity. The club welcomes participants regardless of gender, age or skill level.

Golden Point VIC

Ballarat Tram No 26 — Image credit: No

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Ballarat Tramway Museum

Travel back in time through the beautiful Ballarat Botanical Gardens alongside Lake Wendouree. By riding one of the 100 year old trams which provided Ballarat's public transport until 1971. The recently opened Display Hall, is where you can learn the story of the Ballarat trams and its people is told through photographs, historic films and tramway memorabilia. Representatives of the Ballarat tramcar fleet are on display alongside a wonderfully restored former Geelong tram. On loan is a restored tram which until 1959 the Victorian Railways ran from St Kilda Station to Brighton. Included in the display is Ballarat Horse Drawn Tram No. 1. This was the first tram to operate in Ballarat in 1887. Under restoration is one of the first electric trams to be operated in 1905 by the original Electric Supply Company of Victoria fleet. The running fleet includes nine tramcars which initially ran in Melbourne and arrived in Ballarat between 1930 and 1951, and four acquired directly from Melbourne by the Museum. Run by volunteers, the Museum is open every Saturday, Sunday and Tuesday. We are open on most Victorian public holidays. During Victoria school holidays we open on Thursdays. Guided tours and group visits can be arranged. Souvenir items may be purchased from the shop.

Lake Wendouree VIC

Ballarat Turf Club

Entertainment Venues

Ballarat Turf Club

Located just over an hour's drive from Melbourne, the Ballarat Turf Club offers a country atmosphere with metropolitan quality. Racing is held across the year on their turf and synthetic tracks, with the club proud to host 37 race meetings per season. The Ballarat Turf Club also features premium training facilities which is utilised by nearly 80 trainers and approximately 700 horses. All upcoming race days and events details on their website. On race days, visit their bar and bistro for drinks and a meal. On non-event days, the tracks are actively used for training from Monday to Saturday in the morning. Visitors are walk-in to see the horses in training as they prepare for their next run. If you would like to watch the jump outs, this can be arranged by contacting the club at least a day prior. It is subject to the Ballarat Turf Club racing calendar. On request and subject to availability, free tours of the facility are also offered. This includes access to key areas that are often used typically on a race day and some of the tracks they commonly use. To book a tour experience, please contact them via phone or email. Please note that on non race days, the only public entry point is via 72 Midas Road. Their office is open from Monday to Friday.

Miners Rest VIC

Coloured Glass

Shopping and Markets

Ballarat Vintage and Collectables Market

Come and visit the Ballarat Vintage and Collectables Market, where every day is a treasure hunt. Their expansive range of vintage and collectables is located on the Western Highway at Warrenheip, inside the Great Southern Wool Shed. Since opening their doors, they have become the go-to destination for those searching for rare and unique items and they bring together an amazing array with over 80 stalls that offer a range of goods to suit all tastes. Whether you're looking for vintage, retro, collectables, antiques, or furniture, you name it - they sell it.

Warrenheip VIC

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