Queer Goldfields – A Celebration of Hidden Histories

Ballarat Performing Arts Centre

501- 503 Neill Street,
Soldiers Hill VIC 3350

Get directions

  • Sat 17 May

7pm–8pm

Step into the hidden history of Victoria's queer past at the launch of Queer Goldfields (queergoldfields.au), part of the Ballarat Heritage Festival. This lively variety night brings to life LGBTIQA+ figures from the 19th century through performance, music, and storytelling.

Meet trailblazers like bushranger Captain Moonlite, trans pioneer Edward De Lacey Evans, performer Miss Goddard, sculptor Dora Ohlfsen, and queer icon Lola Montez. Discover lesser-known lives such as poet Lesbia Harford, cook Fredrick Wilson, and young trans woman Joey Hanslow.

Based on over 300 historical newspaper articles, Queer Goldfields uncovers the resilience, defiance, and legacy of Ballarat's queer community. Presented by City of Ballarat and Federation University, this is a night of insight, celebration, and powerful untold stories.

Content: City of Ballarat

Accessibility Information

  • Disabled access available, contact operator for details.

Please note: The accessibility information above is provided by the business operator. For more information, please contact the business directly.

Stay In The Know

Sign up to our newsletter and get the latest updates.

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.

cob_logo
cob_logo

© 2025 Ballarat In The Know. This initiative is funded by the City of Ballarat and Tourism Midwest Victoria.