Another day in Ballarat on a quest for discovery - Guest Post by Craig Thatcher

A regular follower of 'Discover My Ballarat', Craig Thatcher was back in Ballarat to visit us again.  What did he get up to this time?

Another day in Ballarat on a quest for discovery

This time around we discovered Kryal Castle. On the rainy day that it was, the jousting was cancelled so a weapons display was set into the program. It was quite good, and all the kids loved it, but I must admit the visit was not quite what I had expected. To be honest, I felt that Kryal Castle is targeted towards children, more than adults. The characters were playing with the kids in sword fights and having a ball doing it I would say. The fun for the adults came in the form of a “pull apart table”.  In fact I had the pleasure of making my best friend several inches taller, by tying ropes to her arms and legs and then yanking. Lots of fun and highly recommend it!

To fill the rest of the day we decided to visit M.A.D.E (Museum Australian Democracy & Eureka). It was absolutely brilliant and the learning experience was just fantastic. The voyage starts with the Eureka uprising, and follows through time looking at the greatest speeches ever spoken including Nelson Mandela, Enid Lyons, Winston Churchill, Paul Keating, Martin Luther King and so many more. Its all based around one single premise and delivers in immensely powerful images and thought provoking words. The original Eureka flag is also on display.  Returned to it’s home and birthplace. It’s quite fitting as M.A.D.E is build on the site the Eureka rebellion, and the flag takes centre stage in a darkened room and glass case. It’s quite humbling to think of what the flag represents and the event that the flag was the centrepiece to. I found myself sitting there just looking at it, thinking of the history and significance of it. It’s quite a powerful thing to be in the presence of. Sadly nearly 40% is now missing. Over the years the flag had been chopped up and the pieces given away like a trophy to friends of the family who owned it. What is left has been preserved quite literally thread by thread and saved for the rest of it’s days.  If you are pondering a day in Ballarat then M.A.D.E must be on the to do list. It’s just brilliant! 

Last but not least we finished the day at the Golden City Hotel in Sturt Street. It's the fifth time I have been there as the food is perfect every time and the atmosphere is just great. Meals range from the “parma” to the most exquisitely presented meat dishes. It’s really hard to beat and it won’t break the bank. The perfect way to end a visit to Ballarat. 

Every time we visit it gets harder to leave and one day we won’t.  With any luck it will be sooner than later. We love exploring the area which is so rich in history and beauty. It is rapidly becoming a place to call home.

 Author - Craig Thatcher - 18 June 13

Gluten Free Cake at Golden City Hotel (GC's)

Does that picture make you feel hungry or what?  It looks like a photo out of a food magazine.  I took this happy snap while I was on an outing to Golden City Hotel with my friend for a catch up.  Pictured above is a Gluten Free Flourless Orange Cake with an English Breakfast Tea.  It was my dessert following a beautiful Beef with Plum and Oyster Sauce from the wok.  Golden City has an extensive Gluten Free menu which I enjoy.  They even have gluten free pizza bases for their pizza.  So if you are looking for a yummy meal and great evening out, I recommend Golden City Hotel for your next outing.  A favourite with the locals, it is sure to impress, whether you need a gluten free meal or not.

Location:  Golden City Hotel, 427 Sturt Street, Ballarat.

Their menu can be viewed at www.goldencityhotel.com.au

* Always speak to the chef about your individual dietary requirements to make sure the food is suitable for you.

Table 48 Restaurant

So here is my first restaurant review.  Today I went out to lunch with friends, accompanied by my children.  Table 48 had a lovely feel to the place.  Modern decor on the inside.  The food was delicious. I had fish & chips with a salad. My son chose the ham, pineapple and cheese pizza from the kids menu.  I busily fed my 10 month old her own solids as us mums have to do. The owner Gus was so friendly, helpful and welcoming.  I was really impressed and will be taking my husband back sometime soon.  This restaurant has Gluten Free & Vegetarian options on the menu for those who need them*

Location:  48 Humffray Street, Bakery Hill, Ballarat
Ph: (03) 5338 8818

* Always speak to the chef about your individual dietary requirements to make sure the food is suitable for you.