About Me

Ballarat, Victoria, Australia
In 2012 I moved back to my home town of Ballarat in Victoria, Australia. Join me as I re-discover Ballarat, one of Victoria's largest inland cities, famous for the Goldfields. You may be a resident, tourist or new comer to Ballarat. I hope to provide you with useful information about Ballarat as I re-discover my home town. I will also provide information on places which are a short drive from Ballarat. So residents and visitors come and discover Ballarat with me.

Wednesday, May 29, 2013

Welcome Fairy Bella to Ballarat!

Welcome Fairy Bella to Ballarat!

How did you move into the area of performing at children's parties?
I grew up with my family in Perth and from a young age I developed a love for performing. I started working in a Fairy Shop that hosted parties and was constantly asked by parents about doing 'at home' parties. After discovering that there was quite a big market for this kind of entertainment I decided to start up a little business of my own. After just appearing at a few parties, word began to spread and with very little advertising my name began to grow just through word of mouth. After developing quite a following Perth, this year I moved to Ballarat to continue my studies in Performing Arts, and so Fairy Bella has moved with me!

What do you love about children's parties?
I feel so privileged to be asked into people's homes to help them celebrate their special occasions. The parties I remember most as a child are the intimate parties created at home with love by my parents, and I aim to help make these moments even more special.


What do your parties involve?
A child's imagination is so special and my aim is to help keep the magic real for as long as I can. My Fairy Parties are full of singing, dancing, magic, games and many more surprises. Through years of experience I have developed a program that keeps children entertained, but I will also work closely with each parent to make sure I create a unique party for each special event.  Whilst I specialise in Fairy Parties, I also offer Ballerina Parties for older children (5+) and I offer face painting.

How can parents contact you?
My website is www.fairybellaperth.webs.com 
Contact number:  0430 407 293

Facebook Page - Click Here

Nicole (Fairy Bella)

Photo used with permission from Nicole (Fairy Bella)

Tuesday, May 28, 2013

Visiting Sovereign Hill by Craig Thatcher



Thank-you to my regular blog follower Craig Thatcher who wrote this post for you all on his recent visit to Sovereign Hill. Enjoy!


Today I had a very special experience at Sovereign Hill Ballarat. We were able to participate in the “Make Cancer History Walk" which was a 2km or 4km walk around Sovereign Hill and Blood on the Southern Cross.  Walking around Blood on the Southern Cross was such a very special experience that very few have ever had the chance to experience by day.  I'm so glad that we were given the opportunity, especially with all the proceeds going towards cancer cures.

I have been to Sovereign Hill twice before and once to Blood on the Southern Cross just a few months ago.  Each time I have had very special experiences for different reasons. This time was different! Not only did we have that very special experience in Blood on the Southern Cross, but also undertook a great amount of learning of where Sovereign hill started and how many volunteers give up two weeks a year of their to be part of it for no other reason than they love to be part of the history behind it, and enjoy the friendships they have made there.



During our visit we went into the candle making shop, where young children were learning something that is not commonly taught in schools these days. They had plain candles pre-made for them and were able to learn about prime colours and how when combined, can make another colour. I remember doing this when I was in primary school, and thought it was wonderful that this basic thing was being taught again.  These kids loved every moment. 

I came across “Lizzy” the peacock who found a warm place in front of the fire in the cafĂ©, much to the delight of the kids that were around, and if I’m honest to my wife and I too. 

I met a volunteer who talked about the costs associated with the day to day running of the site. He mentioned that from the $47 admission fee, only $1 is revenue above the day to day costs which knocked me for six. To be honest, like a lot of people I would have thought it was a money making machine, but the whole thing is run “not for profit” and everything goes towards the cost of preserving history. I know that from today, the next time I visit and hand over my hard earned money I will look at it in a very different manner.

Sovereign Hill to me is a place of history, comradeship, spirit and education. It represents something that should be preserved forever and never to be compromised. The history in this wonderful outdoor museum is very special and to walk through Ballarat, it is obvious that the city has never forgotten and not likely to forget anytime soon. It should be remembered by all Australians as all other fights in history have been, to preserve our freedom and rights in our everyday lives. Sovereign Hill represents all of these things to me and so much more. It will be something I will pass on to my kids when the day comes and hopefully they will do the same with theirs as well. It is the most wonderful experience and a humbling journey of discovery for every person who enters the gates to re-live one of our most important times in our history. 


Author - Craig Thatcher - 26 May 13

Thursday, May 9, 2013

Ballarat Heritage Weekend (11-12 May 2013)

Explore the heritage of our city this weekend, as our beautiful town opens its doors to some of our best heritage buildings.  Enjoy tours and an array of entertainment.

For a full list of tours and entertainment, you can pick up a an official event program from the Town Hall or Phoenix Building.  You can also visit the website:  www.ballaratheritageweekend.com

Margaret's Pick - Horse Trams at Ballarat Botanical Gardens, Wendouree (Sunday 11am - 4pm).  Charges apply.

Enjoy!

Wednesday, May 1, 2013

Museum of Australian Democracy at Eureka - LAUNCHES THIS WEEKEND! 4-5 May 13

This weekend (4-5 May 13) the Museum of Australian Democracy at Eureka (M.A.D.E) launches, with free entry and activities all weekend!  Enjoy a series of speakers, a BBQ, kids activities, stage performances and of course, the museum.  Bookings are required to listen to the range of speakers on offer.  See the website link below.

Location:  Corner of Stawell Street Sth & Eureka Street, Ballarat

Museum Opening Times:  10am - 5pm

For more information on the Launch Weekend visit:
http://www.made.org/WhatsOn/Events/MADEInBallaratLaunchWeekend.aspx

Ballarat & Queen's Old Grammarians' Association Progressive Dinner - 22 June 2013

I had never heard of a Progressive Dinner until now.  Apparently, each course of the meal is held at a different venue. A very interesting concept indeed.

Here are the details of the Ballarat & Queen's Old Grammarians' Association Progressive Dinner which I have been asked to share with you all.