Begonia Fest to bloom for 70th time

THE run into this year’s Begonia Festival is underway, with the much-loved event getting its official launch at the Robert Clark Conservatory last week.

City of Ballarat mayor Cr Daniel Moloney revealed that the 70th iteration of the festival would once again be spread out across Ballarat, with events planned for the CBD and what’s become the traditional home in the Botanical Gardens.

Since 1953, the festival has sought to deliver a program of creative culture, markets, workshops, and floral attractions, and the Cr Moloney promised this year’s event will include “something for everyone.”

“The City of Ballarat is excited to deliver this event for our community, immersing locals in a uniquely Ballarat experience,” he said.

With the last couple of festivals stretched to four weeks because of COVID-19, this year’s event is shorter and set to run for 10 days from Friday, 11 until Sunday, 20 March.

Special guests will include garden guru Jamie Durie and former MasterChef contestant and host of Freshly Picked Simon Toohey.

As a new addition to the festival, places like McKenzie Street, Hop Lane and Police Lane will bloom into the Begonia Byway with designs by artists Hattie Molloy and Esther Olsson.

Also new in 2022 are a Food Truck Friday event at Alfred Deakin Place, Weed Foraging walks set for Sovereign Hill, and the return Begonia Classic Fun Run in support of the Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute.

Classic events are back to, with The PowerFM Begonia Parade on Labour Day and the traditional display of 700 begonias are again set to bloom at at Robert Clark.

One of the musicians set to perform at the gardens is Hugh McKelvey. He said his shows will spotlight collaborations between local artists and established groups.

“You’re going to hear some things that you haven’t heard before,” he said.

In another milestone, Central Highlands Water will mark its 25th year as community partner with the festival, and board chair Angeleen Jenkins said they are excited to join in the dual celebration.

“At this year’s Begonia Festival, CHW will continue to showcase our delivery that water is safe, smart and sustainable,” she said.

Organisers estimate the festival delivers a of $3.445 million boost to the city with an average attendance of over 60,000.