Golden Hour Games: Gin Rummy Edition
Golden Hour Games
$26pp, Friday 11 September 2026, from 6pm, Ballarat Old Colonists’ Club, Lydiard St Nth
A friendly gin rummy tournament supporting the 2027 Ballarat International Foto Biennale.
About the event
Golden Hour Games is an evening of friendly rivalry, card skills and community – all in support of the Ballarat International Foto Biennale. Whether you’re a gin rummy veteran or sitting down to the game for the first time, you’re welcome at the table.
How it works
Players compete individually in a round-robin format, with each player matched against different opponents throughout the evening. Points accumulate across rounds, with the leading players progressing to a knockout final. A Tournament Director is on hand throughout to keep play fair, friendly and moving. Full rules are provided on arrival – no prior experience required.
Why it matters
Every ticket sold goes directly towards the 2027 Biennale and the opening of the National Centre for Photography – a landmark project for the photographic arts. Your seat at the table is a direct investment in the future of photography.
Seats are limited; secure yours today.
Event Details
Date: Friday 11 September 2026
Doors open: 6:00 pm
First game: 6:30 pm sharp
Venue: Old Colonists’ Club, Lydiard Street North, Ballarat
Tickets: $26 per person, includes light refreshments and your first drink (beer, wine or soft drink)
Places: Strictly limited
Golden Hour Games — Frequently Asked Questions
About the event
What is Golden Hour Games?
Golden Hour Games is a fundraising event hosted by the Ballarat International Foto Biennale. Proceeds support the 2027 Ballarat International Foto Biennale and the opening of the National Centre for Photography.
Who can enter?
Anyone is welcome – gin rummy experience is not required. The event is designed to be social and light-hearted, and full rules are provided on arrival. The Tournament Director is on hand throughout the evening to help with any questions.
How many players are in the tournament?
The tournament requires an even number of players, and we are limited by available room space. Once places are full, no further bookings will be accepted.
The format
How does the tournament work?
Players compete individually across a round robin format, meeting different opponents across multiple rounds. Points accumulate throughout the evening, with leading players progressing to a knockout final to determine the champion.
Do I need to know how to play gin rummy?
No. A printed rules sheet is provided to every player on arrival, and the Tournament Director will run through the format and key rules before the first game begins. If you have questions during the event, simply call the Tournament Director to your table.
How long does each game take?
Individual matches run to approximately 15 minutes. The first game begins at 6:30 pm sharp and the full event runs until approximately 8:30 pm.
What happens if there is a dispute during play?
Either player may pause the game and call the Tournament Director (TD). Both players explain their position, the rules sheet is consulted, and the TD delivers an immediate ruling. All TD decisions are final.
Tickets & booking
How much are tickets?
Tickets are $26 per person and include light refreshments and your first drink (beer, wine or soft drink) on arrival. Not a card player? You can still be part of the evening. All tickets are $26 – every one of them goes towards the 2027 Biennale and the National Centre for Photography, whether you’re at the table or cheering on a friend.
How do I book?
Tickets are available via [insert booking link]. Places are strictly limited so early booking is recommended.
Can I book for a group?
You are welcome to book multiple tickets, but please note that all places are for individual competitors. There are no team entries.
Is there a waitlist if the event sells out?
Yes. If the event reaches capacity, please contact info@ballaratfoto.org to be added to the waitlist in case a place becomes available.
Can I get a refund if I can’t attend?
Tickets are non-refundable, however they are transferable. If you are unable to attend, please contact us at info@ballaratfoto.org as soon as possible so we can arrange a name transfer.
On the night
What time should I arrive?
Doors open at 6:00 pm. We recommend arriving promptly as the Tournament Director will conduct a rules briefing before the first game begins at 6:30 pm sharp. Late arrivals may forfeit their place.
Where is the event held?
Golden Hour Games is held at the Old Colonists’ Club, Lydiard Street North, Ballarat. This event is upstairs and is not fully accessible for people with mobility difficulties.
Is parking available nearby?
Lydiard Street North has on-street parking available.
What is included in my ticket?
Your ticket includes entry to the tournament, light refreshments throughout the evening, and your first drink on arrival (choice of beer, wine or soft drink). Additional drinks will be available for purchase.
What should I bring?
Just yourself and a sense of fun. Rules, cards, scorecards and everything else you need will be provided on the night.
About the cause
Where does the money go?
All proceeds go directly to the Ballarat International Foto Biennale, supporting the 2027 Biennale and the opening of the National Centre for Photography.
What is the National Centre for Photography?
The National Centre for Photography (NCP) is a landmark project being developed by the Ballarat International Foto Biennale. Based in Ballarat, it will serve as a centre for exhibitions, education, collection and community engagement with photography.
Further questions? Contact us at info@ballaratfoto.org
