Victoria Park

A Legacy of Community Gathering

Established in 1890, Victoria Park has served as Ballarat's premier recreational destination for over 130 years. What began as a traditional city park has evolved into one of the region's most beloved community spaces, attracting approximately 140,000 visitors annually. The park's enduring appeal lies not just in its extensive facilities, but in its ability to bring together people from all walks of life in a shared appreciation for outdoor recreation and community connection.

Inclusive Design and Natural Beauty

Victoria Park's commitment to accessibility and inclusion is perhaps its most defining characteristic. The park's inclusive play space, opened in 2016, represents a thoughtful approach to community recreation that welcomes visitors of all abilities. This design philosophy extends throughout the park, with a 6.61-kilometer accessible walking track that accommodates pedestrians, wheelchair users, and cyclists alike. The carefully maintained paths, ranging from 1.5 to 2.4 meters wide, wind through the park's natural landscape, offering both sealed and compacted gravel surfaces that ensure year-round accessibility.

The park's natural environment provides a peaceful contrast to urban Ballarat, with mature trees creating shaded areas perfect for picnics and relaxation. Seasonal changes bring their own beauty, with the landscape transforming throughout the year to offer different experiences for repeat visitors.

Community Heart and Cultural Significance

Victoria Park serves as more than just a recreational space. It's a cultural hub that brings the Ballarat community together. The park hosts significant annual events including the Australia Day Picnic in the Park, where families gather to celebrate national pride in a setting that has witnessed over a century of community celebrations. The park has also welcomed renowned artists for concerts, with performances by Crowded House, Angus and Julia Stone, The Church, Mark Seymour, Vika and Linda, and The Waifs, cementing its reputation as a premier entertainment venue.

The Vic Park Soccer Club, operating under Football Victoria, represents the park's sporting heritage and community spirit. With teams for various age groups and skill levels, the club embodies the park's role in fostering local talent and community connections. The dog park along Poplar Avenue reflects the park's understanding of modern community needs, providing a spacious, grassy off-leash area where both pets and their owners can enjoy the outdoors together.

Victoria Park's evolution from a traditional 19th-century park to a modern, inclusive community space demonstrates its ability to adapt while maintaining its core mission of serving the people of Ballarat. Whether visitors come for the walking tracks, the inclusive playground, the sports facilities, or simply to enjoy the natural beauty, they become part of a legacy that spans generations.