A community celebration and commemoration of the 171st anniversary of the Eureka Stockade

BALLARAT is preparing to honour a defining moment in its history with a program marking the 171st anniversary of the Eureka Stockade.

This year’s commemorations bring together reflection, learning and community connection, inviting locals and visitors to engage with the legacy of this significant event.

At the heart of the program is the Eureka Sunday in the Park on 30 November, a free community celebration and playgroup extravaganza that will enliven the Eureka Centre precinct from 10am – 2pm.

Eureka Centre’s program will be complemented by a free all-day community event at the Eureka Outdoor Pool to active the entire Eureka Stockade Memorial Park.

For those wishing to explore the history more deeply, the day begins with the Eureka Landscapes: Then and Now Walking Tour. This guided experience traces the route from Old Government Camp to the site of the Stockade. Shuttle buses will be available to return walkers to the CBD.

Eureka Sunday also features a suite of insightful talks and creative presentations. Cultural historian Peter Freund presents Commemorations and Crisis: Evocations of the Eureka Stockade 1930-1960 exploring how artists, writers and performers reinterpreted Eureka during formative period in the forging of Australia’s national identity. Later in the afternoon, The Silver Stars of Freedom – a rehearsed reading of a 1935 play inspired by the rebellion, provides a rare chance to encounter a historical work that captures the spirit and ideals of the time.

Eureka Day on 3 December marks the 171st anniversary of the attack of the Eureka Stockade. A commemorative service will be held at 8am to honour those who died and were involved in the rebellion, providing the community with a moment remember the fallen and honour the democratic legacy of their struggle and sacrifice. Eureka Stockade Commemorative Service on 3 December. The service will be followed by a free breakfast at the Eureka Centre.

Eureka Day also features the Peter Tobin Oration at 6pm, which will be delivered by distinguished journalist and author, George Megalogenis. His presentation ‘Eureka, the rise, fall and return of Ballarat as a population magnet’ promises to be insightful, reflecting on Ballarat’s past and its future. with a moment to remember and reflect their courage and contribution.

Plan your celebration weekend and head to eurekacentreballarat.com.au to explore the full program.

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