SpringFest returns with Market Sunday

SPRINGFEST Ballarat will be back at the gardens precinct by Lake Wendouree this November to raise funds for community organisations and projects.

An initiative of the Rotary Club of Ballarat, the iconic Market Sunday event will take place on Wendouree Parade, between St Aidans Drive and Carlton Street, on Sunday 24 November.

With over 450 stalls, the market will include artisanal goods, handmade crafts, clothing, and food.

Broadcaster Julia Zass and chef Tim Bone are on board as ambassadors of the family event for a fifth year.

“We love SpringFest, and now it’s different for us because we’ve both got kids,” Mr Bone said.

“We see it through their eyes and it puts another wonderful perspective on such a great event.

“I’ll have my toastie stall; the food trucks are my favourite part of the day.”

This year’s Market Sunday will include two new bigger food precincts, a sports zone, kids’ area, the Bedggoods Show n Glow vintage and classic car display, a frontline services space, live music and roaming performers.

“We’re bringing more of the food back down towards Wendouree Parade so it’s more accessible near the market stalls, so you can grab a bite to eat and wander through,” Ms Zass said.

“It’s all in the one spot and not too far for little legs to walk.”

This year’s fundraising beneficiaries and community partners are Cafs, Miners Rest Primary School and Kindergarten, and Phoenix P-12 Community College. Some funds raised will also be put towards the local and international projects of the Rotary Club of Ballarat.

“It’s a fun day out, but it’s an important fundraiser for some really great local beneficiaries,” Ms Zass said.

Less than 80 stall spots are remaining for businesses interested in taking part.

A Harness Racing Night on Thursday 3 October, the SpringFest Ballarat Online Raffle, and support from Ballarat Carols by Candlelight on Sunday 22 December will also boost funds raised. There are 550 tickets available in the raffle.

SpringFest Ballarat is supported by major sponsor Optus. Visit ballaratspringfest.com.au for more information.