Art enthusiasts, garden admirers and sporting fanatics are welcomed to Ballarat and its historic villages this March to enjoy a range of fun-filled activities suitable for the whole family. With events including photography exhibitions, antique fairs, garden festivals and rowing competitions, located just 75 minutes drive from Melbourne, Ballarat offers the ideal escape to the country.

Events and activities taking place in Ballarat and its historic villages this March include;

Queen Elizabeth II by Cecil Beaton exhibition: A Diamond Jubilee photography exhibition
Saturday 25 February till Sunday 15 April 2012
The Art Gallery of Ballarat is pleased to showcase the Queen Elizabeth II by Cecil Beaton: A Diamond Jubilee photography exhibition (www.artgalleryofballarat.com.au) from Saturday 25 February till Sunday 15 April 2012. The exhibition will feature a series of portraits compiled by the famous royal photographer Cecil Beaton. This event is exclusive to The Art Gallery of Ballarat as it will be the only location in Australia to house the exhibition which tours from London.

Head of the Lake 100th Anniversary
Sunday 4 March 2012
2012 marks the 100th Anniversary for the Ballarat Head of the Lake (www.visitballarat.com.au) event on Sunday 4 March 2012 and the return of the event to Lake Wendouree. The regatta is the key event in the Ballarat Schools rowing calendar, the categories include Girls and Boys division in Year 9, 10 and Senior Four events. The scenic outdoor event will host a variety of special activities for former, current and spectator rowers to partake in.

Ballarat Begonia Festival
Labour Day weekend, Saturday 10 till Monday 12 March, 2012
Celebrating its 60th year in 2012, the annual Ballarat Begonia Festival (www.ballaratbegoniafestival.com) will be held on Labour Day weekend, Saturday 10 till Monday 12 March on the foreshore of Lake Wendouree and the Ballarat Botanical Gardens. The event engages visitors with activities suited for the whole family including free music, garden, nursery tours and fun woodworking activities for children.  

Ballarat Antique Fair
Labour Day weekend, Saturday 10 till Monday 12 March 2012