Pottage move to help mould upgraded Bridge Mall

POSSIBLY one of Ballarat’s biggest social media mysteries was answered last week when a business popular for its hands-on ceramic making revealed its new home.

There had been much chatter online about where The Pottage would next locate its kilns and wheels.

However, ceramicist Shelby Sherritt, The Pottage’s owner, announced that her business was moving to Bridge Mall.

The Pottage will open their doors at what is now becoming the arty end of the mall next month.

With a need for more space, the ceramic artist wanted a number of things from her next location, which the mall, now 12 months after its reopening, was able to offer.

“One of the big things was actually access for people who require public transport, who may require mobility aids to access the facility,” she said.

“But something that’s a little bit more central, and that’s a part of the nightlife culture and part of the culture that’s already in the CBD, was a big criteria for us to move too.

“Because often when people come to our sessions, they’ll want to go out for dinner afterwards or they’ll want to go for lunch.”

Ms Sherritt said The Pottage attracted people from Melbourne and interstate.

She said that how the mall was developing, with new businesses and a cluster of creative stores at the Peel Street South end, was exciting.

“There’s Timezone, we’ve already got the other art workshops spaces down here, so it becomes a bit more of an arty activity tourism hub in a way, because we’ve got so many things that you can do,” she said.

“There’s just so much potential down here with people taking that chance to open up their business here.”

The Pottage began operations in 2024. Ms Sherritt said the business has given her so much joy.

“It’s honestly been the most enriching experience of my career so far as a ceramic artist,” she said.

“Because it is so fulfilling to be able to see people’s eyes light up with pride and excitement over something that they’ve created.

“To just see them make memories here is really special. We don’t take it for granted at all. We’re really grateful for everyone that’s visited us before and hopefully continue to visit us in this new space.”

More information about The Pottage can be found following the business on Instagram and Facebook. It will open at 11am on Saturday 14 March.