Family Highlights: Must-See Spots and Activities
If you’re planning to take the kids (or teens) to the Ballarat International Foto Biennale, there’s plenty to capture the imagination – and it won’t cost your wallet much. Children under 16 receive free entry to the ticketed Core Program (but little ones still require a ticket – book for free online), and the Open Program spans multiple venues across the city, all with free access. Here are some top suggestions for a fun and inspiring family jaunt during the festival:
Featured Artwork & Exhibitions
Mounted on the facade of the home of the National Centre for Photography on historic Lydiard Street South, this public art installation by Dave Jones in collaboration with Wadawurrung knowledge-holder Dr Deanne Gilson is striking by day, and spectacular after dusk. Mumu Mirri, or “moth” in Wadawurrung, offers a powerful visual connection to place.
Nature~ista at RACV Goldfields Resort, Creswick
Located about 15 minutes north of Ballarat, RACV Goldfields Resort offers a great base with its serene bushland setting. This free exhibition by Leila Jeffreys and Maria Fernanda Cardoso is a tribute to the beauty and flair of the animal world, captured through contemporary lenses.
For older families, Hiromi Tango’s exhibition Hagoromo (Full Flower Moon) series explores the artist’s Japanese—Australian cultural identity, delving into sometimes uncomfortable spaces of grief, separation, longing, and loss.
Alive at Federation University Camp Street Campus, North Building
This group exhibition by Federation University students explores the essence of Lifeforce through a lens of photographic and digital innovation.
School Holiday Drop-in Activities (20 September – 5 October)
Get crafty! Make a moth inspired by Mumu Mirri, try your hand folding an origami camera — drop-in sessions designed for younger creators. You’ll find all the necessary materials ready to go at 101 Lydiard (corner of Mair and Lydiard St North).
Other Highlights
Guma on the Art Screen at Alfred Deakin Place
A reflective, moving work by Leicolhn McKellar. Guma (“blood” in Budjiti) explores pan-Aboriginal identity through everyday life and family connections. Alfred Deakin Place is an outdoor space perfect for kids to run around in the fresh air.
Prompted Peculiar International AI Prize at the Miners Tavern
If your family is curious about tech and art, this one’s for you. Finalist works in AI-generated imagery or ‘promptography’. Note: this exhibition is upstairs in a heritage-listed building and does not have lift access (so prams are not ideal). Included with a Festival Pass (ticketed exhibition).
Memory Matrix in Bridge Mall and The Good Shed Plaza
These two large-scale installations weave together community-submitted photographs into a glowing tapestry of light and shadow. The result is an immersive experience where personal memories form a collective artwork — moving, reflective, and a great conversation starter for families. There is also a great playground for youngsters to explore in Bridge Mall.