Ballarat Old Gaol Tours

Ballarat

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Step beyond the iron gates and into the shadows of history at the Ballarat Old Gaol. This year, they invite you to experience a chilling new chapter—the difficult history of solitary confinement in the Goldrush.

Join their knowledgeable guides as they lead you through the remnants of this once formidable prison, sharing stories and events that paint a vivid picture of its colourful history.

Through authentic artifacts, historical records, and haunting personal accounts, discover how the strict regimes of the 19th-century penal system shaped the fate of those imprisoned here. From notorious criminals to the unjustly condemned, their struggles, fears, and fates are brought to life in this immersive experience.

Content: Tales from Rat City

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Actively welcomes people with access needs.

17 & 18 May

9am–5pm

Federation University SMB Campus

107 Lydiard Street South, Ballarat Central VIC 3350

Accessibility Information

Actively welcomes people with access needs.

Stay In the Know

Across Victoria’s Midwest, we acknowledge that we travel across the ancient landscapes of many First Peoples communities. These lands have been nurtured and cared for over tens of thousands of years and we respect the work of Traditional Custodians for their ongoing care and protection.

We recognise the past injustices against Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in this country. As our knowledge grows, we hope that we can learn from their resilience and creativity that has guided them for over 60,000 years. As we invite people to visit and explore Victoria’s Midwest, we ask that alongside us, you also grow to respect the stories, living culture and connection to Country of the Ancestors and Elders of our First Peoples.

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Ballarat In The Know. This initiative is funded by the City of Ballarat and Tourism Midwest Victoria.