Fest to uncover hidden histories

HIDDEN histories of Ballarat will be uncovered as the city’s Heritage Festival returns over 21-24 May.

A young harpist playing live music before the town hall and two horses pulling an old carriage last week helped mark the official countdown to the festival that is Ballarat’s signature autumn event.

The program will return over four days with the new theme of Hidden Histories, inviting visitors to discover and explore some of the intriguing lesser-known stories, characters and moments that shaped the region.

A line-up of special performances, tours, exhibitions and interactive experiences are planned.

Among them, Cobb & Co Carriages of Kilmore will be bringing their horses Portia, Milky, Mallee and Ebony to offer carriage rides around town, providing a living experience of yesteryear transportation.

Young Ballarat harpist Anna Macak, who helped launch the festival with a live performance on Sturt Street, will also be playing throughout the four days, City of Ballarat events manager Sarah Conaughton said.

A major centrepiece of the program, Ballarat Revealed: Hidden Histories, Shared Together will happen at the Mining Exchange, inviting visitors to experience a free immersive exhibition.

One of the pieces on show will be a large-scale recreation of an historic Chinese arch.

“The Ballarat Revealed exhibition is a standout, giving people the chance to connect with stories that have shaped our city in powerful and unexpected ways,” City of Ballarat mayor Cr Tracey Hargreaves said.

Steam train rides between the Ballarat Station and Yendon, a vintage car show, the Ballarat Antiques Fair, and the Beard and Stache competition are among returning festival favourites with the full program at ballaratheritagefestival.com.au