Time to play as Ballarat's Monopoly launches

MOVE over Park Lane and Mayfair, and make way for Ballarat Town Hall, Sovereign Hill and Kryal Castle.

The Ballarat edition of Monopoly was launched last week at the city’s Botanical Gardens which was fitting given they are among inclusions on the board that features many iconic local landmarks like Federation University and Lake Wendouree.

Federation University deputy chancellor Rhonda Whitfield, chancellor Dr Philip Freier and vice-chancellor and president Professor Duncan Bentley meet Mr Monopoly during the launch of the Ballarat edition of Monopoly. Federation University is among many well known inclusions on the new local edition of the famed board game.

The board was developed by Winning Moves, the company that produces regional Monopoly editions under license from Hasbro, a leading games, IP and toy company.

After months of collaboration with residents, local council, and businesses, the Ballarat edition properties were revealed on a life-sized board and Mr Monopoly joined special guests including City of Ballarat mayor Cr Tracey Hargreaves.

Winning move: Mr Monopoly with Ballarat Tramways Museum assistant operations manager Neville Britton during the launch of the debut Ballarat edition of Monopoly. Photos: EVIE LAMB

“We are very excited to bring the Ballarat community into the world of Monopoly with this specially created edition,” Winning Moves representative Louisa Grundy said.

“This game celebrates the places, people and stories of the town, and we hope it will inspire both residents and visitors to connect with the city in a new and engaging way.”

Cr Hargreaves said she was “absolutely delighted” that Ballarat now has its very own edition of Monopoly.

Ballarat resident Sharon Upham checks out the Ballarat edition of Monopoly.

“It is an iconic family board game that showcases what makes Ballarat so special to tourists and locals alike,” Cr Hargreaves said.

“It’s wonderful to see so many local businesses and tourism attractions share our enthusiasm for the Ballarat edition.”

Delighted at the Botanical Gardens inclusion, City of Ballarat curator gardens and nursery Donna Thomas was among those planning to pick up a copy or two.

“What a beautiful thing to give to people who have left Ballarat to remind them of home,” she said.

Among those at the launch, assistant operations manager and volunteer with Ballarat Tramways Museum Neville Britton said he was especially pleased to see aspects of the city’s historic tramways also get a look-in on the local version of the famous game.

“I think it’s critical because trams have been a part of Ballarat since 1887,” Mr Britton said adding that the tramways museum intends to stock some copies of the game for sale.

The Ballarat edition of Monopoly will also be available at the Eureka Centre, the City’s visitor information centre and plenty of retail outlets.