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Youth Housing and Homelessness Support Services

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BCH Youth Housing and Homelessness Services Now Co‑Located with headspace Ballarat

headspace Ballarat

Working together to support young people

Ballarat Community Health (BCH) has strengthened its commitment to supporting young people experiencing or at risk of homelessness by bringing its youth housing and homelessness services together under one roof with headspace Ballarat.

The new co-location creates a collaborative and community‑focused space where young people can access integrated support across housing, health and wellbeing—making it easier to get the right help, in the right place, at the right time.

Youth Housing

The BCH youth housing and homelessness team provides a range of programs designed to support young people aged 15–25 who are experiencing homelessness or facing housing instability. Services now delivered from the co‑located site include

  • Youth Specialist Homelessness Support
  • Specialist case management and support for young people experiencing homelessness or at risk.

Find out more about Youth Housing

Creating Connections

A program helping young people secure stable, longer-term housing by providing brokerage, advocacy and case coordination. 

Find out more about Creating Connections

Innovative Health Services for Homeless Youth (IHSHY)

A flexible program providing tailored health and wellbeing support for young people disengaged from traditional services.

IHSHY Resources

By co‑locating with headspace Ballarat, BCH is creating a more streamlined pathway for young people to access housing support alongside mental health, physical health, and wellbeing services.

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      We invite you to take part in the CycLink Co‑Design Study

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      We invite you to take part in the CycLink Co‑Design Study

      headspace Ballarat

      We invite you to take part in the CycLink Co‑Design Study: From Principles to Program. This project brings together young people with disability, their families, and community partners to help design a new, inclusive cycling program.

      What is CycLink?

      CycLink is a cycling program being created with young people with disability and their families. The goal is to make cycling fun, flexible, and accessible for everyone—no matter what kind of bike you use or where you live.

      CycLink is ethics approved and Co-designed by The University of Melbourne, La Trobe University and Australian Catholic University (ACU).

      What We’re Working on Together

      We want to work with you to

      • Create a community‑based cycling program led by trained coaches
      • Develop easy‑to‑use online cycling resources for young people with disability and their families.

      How You Can Get Involved

      We are looking for young people with disability and their families to join online group workshops.

      In these workshops, you can

      • Share your ideas and experiences
      • Help us design how CycLink should look and work
      • Tell us what helps make cycling easier, more enjoyable, and more inclusive

        Workshop Details

        Format Online via Zoom

        Who

        • Adults can join up to three workshops
        • Children can join one workshop

        When February 2026

        Want to Join? Please read the information and register your interest by submitting the
        Registration of Interest Form.

        Contact

        If you have any questions, please contact
        Alesha Southby, Project Coordinator

        email [email protected]

        Phone 0401 015 252

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        headspace Ballarat

        When we make sport more inclusive, everyone wins

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        When we make sport more inclusive, everyone wins

        headspace Ballarat

        Access to Sport Survey

        In 2025 headspace Ballarat surveyed 94 Ballarat based young people aged 12-25 to identify barriers that trans and gender diverse young people face when accessing sport. The average age of participants was 18.5, with 50% identifying as Women, 32% Transgender or Gender Diverse and 18% as men.

        The results show significant differences between cisgender and transgender and gender diverse (TGD) youth.

        • While 56% of cisgender youth find it easy or very easy to access sport, only 33% of TGD youth report the same experience. TGD young people are much more likely to face barriers when trying to participate.

        • Bullying and discrimination are also more common for TGD youth, with 60% reporting negative experiences in sport compared to 47.6% of cisgender youth.

        • TGD youth are five times less likely to be open about their gender identity in sport settings and three in four feel anxious about being accepted or affirmed by others.

        Overall, the findings highlight the need for overtly inclusive, affirming, and safe sport environments to support the participation and wellbeing of transgender and gender diverse young people. Sport clubs, organisations, and communities can play a vital role in supporting TGD youth by actively addressing discrimination, by offering trans-affirming programs that prioritise safety, belonging, and enjoyment for ALL young people.

        pdf Headspace Ballarat Access to Sport Survey 2025

        In headspace 229 downloads

        Download (pdf, 373 KB)
        Headspace Ballarat Access to Sport Survey 2025

        In 2025 headspace Ballarat surveyed 94 Ballarat based young people aged 12-25 to identify barriers that trans and gender diverse young people face when accessing sport.

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        2025 Ballarat Community Health Client Feedback

        Shaping the way we support our community

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        Shaping the way we Support our Community

        2025 Ballarat Community Health Client Feedback

        2025 Annual Client Feedback

        Your feedback matters – and it’s shaping the way we support our community.

        Thank you to the 500 people/to those who shared their experiences in our 2025 Annual Client Feedback Survey. From feeling heard, involved and supported, to improving health and wellbeing – your insights help us do better, every day.

        This year’s feedback shows that people/our clients feel more heard, more involved, and more confident managing their health and wellbeing with BCH/us by their side. We’re proud to support you – and grateful you’ve trusted us with your care.

        We’re proud to support you – and grateful you’ve trusted us with your care.

        Your feedback tells us what matters most: personalised care, feeling understood, and services that make life easier. Thank you to everyone who shared their experience in our 2025 survey – your voice helps shape the care we deliver.

        Thank you to the 500 people who completed our 2025 Annual Client Feedback Survey. Your insights help us understand what we’re doing well and where we can continue to improve.

        This year you told us

        • You feel heard and understood
          (93% agree)

        • It’s easier to get the care you need
          (92% agree)

        • You feel involved in decisions about your health
          (94% agree)

        • You’re setting goals and gaining strategies to support daily living

        You also shared why you choose BCH – personalised support, affordability, and feeling genuinely cared for. 

        Thank you for sharing why you choose BCH.
        Thank you for helping us deliver community-centred, person-focused care.
        Thank you to everyone who shared their experience in our 2025 survey – Your voice helps shape the care we deliver.

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        We’re Looking for an Experienced VR GP to join our Howitt Street Practice

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        We’re looking for an experienced VR GP to join our Howitt Street Practice

        Ready for a community-focused role that supports your growth and work-life balance? Ballarat Community Health is seeking a VR GP (3+ years experience) to join our Howitt Street team and help support the growth of our GP registrar program.

        This is a unique opportunity to step into an established caseload, enjoy above-average remuneration for supervision, and work alongside a dedicated team in a truly supportive environment.

        With no on-call or weekend work, you’ll have the work–life balance you need while still making a meaningful impact in our community.

        We’re also offering

        • Professional development support
        • Strong wrap-around services and referral pathways
        • A sign-on bonus of up to $5,000 – to be negotiated with the right candidate
        • A referral bonus of up to $5,000 for successful recommendations

        If this sounds like the right next step in your career, we’d love to hear from you! Call Danni/Danielle Walker for a confidential discussion on 0498619669.

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        Christmas Support in Ballarat 2025 – Food Relief & Other Resources

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        Christmas Support in Ballarat – Food Relief & Other Resources

        Ballarat Community Health Pharmacotherapy Team

        Christmas is often seen as a time of joy and celebration—but for some, it can bring stress, loneliness, or financial pressure. If this season feels difficult, remember: you’re not alone. Support is available.

        Ballarat food relief services – emergency groceries and essentials
        Christmas hampers and gift cards – toys, vouchers, and festive support
        Community assistance programs – practical help for families and individuals

        Christmas Relief information

        pdf 2025 Festive Season Information November 2025 Edition

        In Community Programs 1102 downloads

        Download (pdf, 341 KB)
        2025 Festive Season Information November 2025 Edition

        2025 Festive Season Information, hampers food relief and other wellbeing resources for the festive season.  Compiled by the Innovative Health Services for Homeless Youth (IHSHY), Ballarat Community Health, November 2025.

        Visit Food Access for emergency support available in the Ballarat area throughout the year.

        This season, let’s look out for each other. With patience and kindness, an open ear, or a small gesture can make a big difference.

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        2024/2025 Annual Report and Annual General Meeting

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        Reflecting on a Year of Impact

        Eat Well Feel Good Lunch

        Ballarat Community Health held its 2025 Annual General Meeting, Wednesday November 5th. A time to reflect on achievements and express gratitude for the incredible work happening across our organisation.

        The meeting began with a heartfelt Welcome to Country from Shannen Mennen of the Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation, setting a respectful and inclusive tone for the evening.

        Board Chair Dr Jessie Harman AM shared a year in review, highlighting the milestones and successes that shaped the past year before the Annual Report was formally adopted. Our financial position was then presented by Shelley Wood and Danielle Walker, providing transparency and confidence in BCH’s ongoing stability.

        A special moment of the evening was the farewell to outgoing Board members Robert Hook AM and Mat Muldoon, who have each dedicated close to a decade of service. Their leadership and commitment to community health were warmly acknowledged and deeply appreciated.

        We welcomed newly elected Board members Pauline Buckland and Sari Baird, whose expertise and passion will help guide BCH’s future with a strong community focus.

        The 2024–25 Annual Report celebrates the impact of our work and the dedication of our staff in improving client outcomes and access to care every day.

        • Dr Jesse Harman AM, Board Chair

        • Sean Duffy, Chief Executive Officer

        • Robert Hook AM, outgoing Board Member

        • Mathew Muldoon, outgoing Board Member

        • A/Prof David Pierce Board Member

        • Danielle Walker, Chief Operating Officer

        BCH Annual Report

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        Annual General Meeting 2025 – You’re Invited

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        Annual General Meeting 2025

        Grampians, Victoria, Australia

        Join us to celebrate the organisation’s successes in 2024/25, and hear more about our strategic direction and ongoing commitment to community.

        Date Wednesday 5th November

        Time 5:00pm for a 5:15pm commencement

        Venue 12 Lilburne Street, Lucas, 3350

        RSVP By Wednesday 29th October

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        Ballarat Mental Health Collective Art Exhibition 2025

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        Momentum – Small Steps, Big Impact

        Welcome to the Ballarat Mental Health Collective Art Exhibition, where local artists use their creative genius to raise awareness about mental health in our community.

        Entries are from people making artwork and using creativity to practice and promote positive mental wellbeing. Lend your support for our artists and vote for your favourite work.

        Using the form at the bottom of the page, type in the name of the artist and the title of their work you wish to vote for. Artworks that are for sale all have a price detailed in the description. Please contact the artist directly to arrange your purchase.

        • Brigitte Halliwell – Happiness

          Happiness
          Artist Name Brigitte Halliwell
          Medium Marker and pen
          Price Not for sale
          Contact N/A
          Artist Statement I decided to draw some of things that make me happy and keep my mental health on track. I think that all of the small things that contribute to my happiness create a big impact when put together and make my life a lot more interesting and rewarding.

        • Willow Groten – Angelic Whispers

          Name Willow Groten
          Title Angelic Whispers
          Medium Mixed Media, watercolour, feathers, lace
          Price Not for Sale
          Contact N/A
          Artist Statement My name is Willow, I joined an art class at BHC about 8-9 years ago due to receiving a diagnosis of MS and needing to reduce my stress load. I find that art really soothes me and brings me back into the moment while distracting me from the symptoms of my condition.

        • The Black Dog – Wendy Walker

          Name Wendy Walker
          Title Black Dog
          Medium Digital
          Price Not for Sale
          Contact N/A
          Artist Statement Turning their back on the Black Dog of depression and taking small steps toward a brighter future. There is no set path on the way out, only a hope that things can get better. The dead trees represent bad days. The dark trees extend into the light as a reminder that some bad days will still occur but we can still struggle back from those into better days.

        • Tunde – Manifest

          Name Tunde
          Title Manifest
          Medium Watercolour
          Price $30
          Contact [email protected]
          Artist Statement Small things can manifest big things in the universe. Never underestimate the impact small acts of kindness can have.

        • Alison Smith – Challenges

          Challenges
          Artist Name Alison Smith
          Medium Mixed Media
          Price Contact Artist
          Contact [email protected]
          Artist Statement This exhibit is intended through snakes and ladders, to share my circuitous path to leaving Grampians as a patient and obtaining appropriate compensation for the obliteration of my central nervous system by Big Pharma and incompetent, nepotistic psychiatrists.

        • Tim Spriggs – Evolve or Devolve

          Name Tim Spriggs
          Title Evolve or Devolve
          Medium Blackpoint pen and pencil.
          Price Not for sale
          Contact N/A
          Artist Statement This piece delves into the cost of progress, the weight of expectation and the structure of society. Gratitude and ambition. No stance, only observation.

        • Teresa Foster – The Path to Potential

          Name Teresa Foster
          Title of Work The Path to Potential
          Medium Watercolour
          Price $15
          Contact [email protected]
          Artist Statement Mental health is lived in everyday moments. Healing doesn’t have to be dramatic; it can be quiet, steady, and deeply human. The lakeshore walk reminds me that no matter how heavy things feel, there is always a path forward.

        • Susan Clarke – Make A Little Time Magic Will Happen

          Artist Name Susan Clarke
          Medium Collagraph
          Price $60
          Contact [email protected]
          Artist Statement Making a little time to sit with a friend or on your own to recuperate and make that little time for self will make magic happen in your life. Friendship may grow and “me time” like butterflies gives a chance to fly.

        • Sue – The Ripple Effect

          Artist Name Sue
          Medium Graphite marker, watercolour
          Price Not for sale
          Contact N/A
          Artist Statement Small, kind gestures can have wide ranging effects. Make the ripple.

        • Sheila Kors – Tiny Steps Tall Blooms

          Artist Name Sheila Kors
          Medium Textile/Cross Stitch
          Price $35
          Contact [email protected]
          Artist Statement This work celebrates the strength found in small, everyday efforts. Each stitch reflects a moment of care, healing, and the courage it takes to keep moving forward.

        • Sarah Stockdale – Outside World

          Artist Name Sarah Stockdale
          Medium Acrylic on Paper
          Price $100
          Contact [email protected]

        • Robyn – Small Steps

          Artist Name Robyn
          Medium Pencil and paper
          Price $10
          Contact [email protected]
          Artist Statement Small Steps, Wait for me, Growth for both, There you are! Everything of inspiration comes from my imagination. When I start something, I don’t know what it is going to be until it is finished.

        • Philippa Burton – Untitled Composition

          Artist Name Philippa Burton
          Medium Wool, Cotton, Plastic, Acrylic Polymer, Wood
          Price Contact Artist
          Contact [email protected]

        • Noel Walsh – CONTINUUM

          Artist Name Noel Walsh
          Medium Pencil and paper
          Price $50
          Contact [email protected]
          Artist Statement I was encouraged to join the art group by a friend last year and that enabled me to expand my appreciation of art and creative endeavors.

        • Myfanwy McLean – Momentum Small Steps Big Impact

          Artist Name Myfanwy McLean
          Medium Collage
          Price Not for sale
          Contact N/A
          Artist Statement Materials, Recycled Packaging, Block Inks, Artliner, Fabric, Glue, Double Sided Tapes.

        • Melissa Mulree – Self Love

          Artist Name Melissa Mulree
          Medium Acrylic Markers
          Price Contact Artist
          Contact [email protected]
          Artist Statement For me small steps, little changes have led to self love which is too me is the ultimate big impact.

        • Megan Fromholtz – Brave Vitality

          Artist Name Megan Fromholtz
          Medium Mixed Media photo collage
          Price Not for sale
          Contact N/A
          Artist Statement I made 5 frames as I was so excited about exploring this theme. So I have tried to put them all in a collage to fit one frame. The irony of this fits perfectly with my neurology and the way I operate in the world.

        • Matthew McLoughlin – Untitled

          Artist Name Matthew McLoughlin
          Medium Photo collage
          Price Contact Artist
          Contact [email protected]

        • Mark Saunders – Happy Free Bird in Nature

          Artist Name Mark Saunders
          Medium Mixed Media
          Price Not for sale
          Contact N/A
          Artist Statement I like making things in Art Therapy
          When making things I feel happy
          I can create in many ways
          I love nature
          I can fill the space
          The bird is happy and free in Nature
          My universe is all around

        • M Moore – Light Through Darkness

          Artist Name M Moore
          Medium Sketching
          Price $50
          Contact [email protected]
          Artist Statement Just the smallest little flicker of light through the darkness always helps

        • Lori Jolliffe – Stone Contemplation

          Artist Name Lori Jolliffe
          Medium Watercolour
          Price Not for sale
          Contact N/A
          Artist Statement Frozen in contemplation of the chaos in her head. Unable to think or act.

        • Lorena Chandler – Golden Linings

          Artist Name Lorena Chandler
          Medium Watercolour, Gold Mica Ink & Acrylic
          Price $65
          Contact [email protected]
          Artist Statement My piece was created with intention — inspired by our beautiful hometown of Ballarat and the quiet resilience in all of us. I chose dahlias, which bloom abundantly in the Ballarat Botanical Gardens, as symbols of elegance, strength, and growth. Woven through the piece are golden linings — a nod to Ballarat’s gold rush history and a reimagining of “silver linings,” reflecting a brighter kind of hope. “Golden Linings” represent the small moments of hope, positivity and gratitude— often overlooked — that accumulate and create powerful emotional momentum in the journey toward mental well-being.

        • Linda – Terminal Velocity

          Artist Name Linda
          Medium Crochet
          Price $20
          Contact [email protected]
          Artist Statement This piece was inspired by the day-to-day grind of constantly be on the go the need to reach terminal velocity. A reminder to step back enjoy the stars.

        • Leann – Taking Flight

          Artist Name Leanne
          Medium Digital
          Price Contact Artist
          Contact [email protected]

        • Karl Cvirn – Making an Impression

          Artist Name Karl Cvirn
          Medium Pen and watercolour
          Price $75
          Contact [email protected]

        • Karene – Meteor Momentum

          Artist Name Karene
          Medium Gouache and texta
          Price $15
          Contact [email protected]
          Artist Statement This is a meteor going through space. It shows momentum going forward just like some people do. The stars signify people moving at a different pace. The earth and mars give the painting balance. A balance of possibilities through different choices.

        • Oplus – 16908322

        • Jules Gallard – Just Pause

          Artist Name Jules Gallard
          Medium Mixed Media
          Price $100
          Contact [email protected]
          Artist Statement Inspiration behind just pause is how my brain feels when chaos takes over this is displayed in the intertwined circle representing my brain, travelling through the face into a moment of pausing before breathing out and embracing my neurodiversity. This piece is mixed media utilising gel plates, acrylics, stencils and cut outs from paper and magazines.

        • Jennifer Bearham – Perfectly Different Differently Perfect

          Artist Name Jennifer Bearham
          Medium Painting
          Price Not for sale
          Contact N/A
          Artist Statement My family has Autism. Through our journey, there have been many small steps taken to reach goals that evolve to a continuous journey that is never ending for our child. All the pieces discovered build a brighter symbol of hope, equality and accepted differences. I have selected some steps that helped us maintain momentum in doing so.

        • Janinew McKay – Pansy Perfection

          Artist Name Janine McKay
          Medium Watercolour
          Price $40
          Contact [email protected]

        • Immi Anne – LetitBe

          Artist Name Immi Anne
          Medium Glass paint, paint pens
          Price Not for sale
          Contact N/A
          Artist Statement ‘Let it be’ is an artwork about trying to let go of our own sense of perfectionism piece by piece. Things in life do not have to be perfect in order to be amazing and beautiful.

        • GrahamHills – Lost my Marbles

          Artist Name Graham Hills
          Medium Pencil and Paper
          Price $50
          Contact [email protected]
          Artist Statement I have enjoyed entering the competition and I thank Ballarat Community Health who have given me the opportunity to display my work. I am constantly inspired by my classmates and teacher. This piece of art is inspired by racing marbles, which color will win??

        • Glenn Dennert – Foot Into the Unknown

          Artist Name Glenie D Art by Glenn Dennert
          Medium Watercolour pencil
          Price $80
          Contact [email protected]
          Artist Statement Things can just be better on the other side of the door, don’t be afraid to try new things.

        • Gary Buchan – Heart Brain Momentum Machine

          Artist Name Gary Buchan
          Medium Watercolour/gouache
          Price Not for sale
          Contact N/A
          Artist Statement Good mental health relies on both our hearts and our minds. Both must be exercised and also synchronised with earth other. Take note that this displayed machine, based upon on a Newton’s Cradle, is not real! However, the concept that you can draw back either your brain or your heart, putting energy into either, then release one, have it swing and transfer momentum through various parts to the other which in turn starts a rhythmic momentum movement, is a practical imagination of what I feel helps produce balance between the two. Once the initial energy transfer is initiated then the cyclic synchronised movements will keep the two swinging in regular balanced motion, and, for a while at least, peace and balance are achieved as both organs work together maintaining momentum, and ideally, a moment to reflect on our own mental state. So, how to use this machine? Focus on either your heart or brain. Put energy into your chosen organ, heart or brain, gently pulling back and away from cradle. Release, in order to transfer energy to the other. If all is balanced then momentum will be ignited and maintained, giving you a moment to see some positivity and light, and hopefully your next step through whatever darkness and/or challenges that consume you and that you keep combatting with every single day. It is so important to see just the next step or handhold, and take it, to make it possible to at least live that one more day at a time. Once a regular balanced synchronous momentum in our own brains and hearts is established then our need for this machine is reduced as we walk on together with others to recovery.

        • Fay Aussie – Meeting Place

          Artist Name Fay
          Medium Paperbark, water colour and ink
          Price Not for sale
          Contact N/A
          Artist Statement I enjoy using natural material in my art work hence the paperbark which i gathered from my garden. The Australian animals inspired me to create the Meeting Place, where they can relate whilst they enjoy our beautiful country which is great for their mental health as it is mine.

        • Ellen Johnson – All You Need is Love and a Cat

          Artist Name Ellen Johnson
          Medium Photo collage
          Price Not for sale
          Contact N/A
          Artist Statement A cat shares so much love, with every look. Patting your cat can be a small act, but makes you relax & feel so good.

        • Edwin Hollick – Transition

          Artist Name Edwin Hollick
          Medium Marker and oil pastel
          Price $30
          Contact [email protected]
          Artist Statement Colour and rendering to perceive change of balance and bright interest

        • Dot Cherry – Mindfulness

          Artist Name Dot Cherry
          Medium Mixed Media
          Price $10
          Contact [email protected]
          Artist Statement Mindfulness has no limits and these words speak for themselves

        • Deshka Kruger – Dawn on the Trail

          Artist Name Deshka Kruger
          Medium Acrylic paint on canvas
          Price $60
          Contact [email protected]
          Artist Statement It is the dawn of a brand new day on a trail through the mountains. Marked on the trail is the rune Dagaz, which symbolises transformation, new beginnings and each new day being a new opportunity. A little further along is a stone cairn as a trail marker, showing that you’re not truly alone on this path, that many have walked it before, that it is achievable.

        • David Pudney – Crossover

          Artist Name David Pudney
          Medium Monotype Print
          Price Not for Sale
          Contact N/A
          Artist Statement I have created a symbolic image of a rope bridge, signifying the fragility of life’s journey. The image is composed of found fabric materials attached to a cardboard surface, then printed as a Monotype.

        • Dana Watts – Untitled

          Artist Name Dana Watts
          Medium Pencil on Paper
          Price $160
          Contact [email protected]

        • Cazza – Swimming Lessons

          Artist Name Cazza
          Price $20
          Contact [email protected]
          Artist Statement What a beautiful sight!

        • Cate Billing – Momentum Chrysalis

          Artist Name Cate Billing
          Medium Mixed Media
          Price Not for sale
          Contact N/A
          Artist Statement The art piece came together slowly, building momentum, changing over time. Like the butterfly, this was leaving my chrysalis of comfort, disintegrating the components before being reborn.

        • Bernadette Aitken – My Favourite Things

          Artist Name Bernadette Aitken
          Medium Textiles…print and embroidery
          Price $50
          Contact [email protected]
          Artist Statement When l print on fabric, or sew, l am concentrated on the piece at hand, and all other concerns vanish. When l finish, l feel relaxed, renewed and happy. I hope you can find something that makes you feel this way 😊🌻

        • Anonymous – Trying to Find the Word

          Artist Name Anonymous
          Medium Mixed Media
          Price Not for sale
          Contact N/A

        • Anonymous – Little Things

          Artist Name Anonymous
          Medium Mixed Media
          Price Not for sale
          Contact N/A
          Artist Statement It represents how small things can come together to make a big difference.

        • Anonymous – Tethered

          Artist Name Anonymous
          Medium Mixed Media
          Price Not for Sale
          Contact N/A
          Artist Statement I have struggled with mental health alone for such a long time and my piece is about the bond with my dogs and how they support me through the ups and downs physically, mentally and emotionally. They are the only ones who love me unconditionally and never judge me. I am incredibly grateful they chose me, because I wouldn’t be here without those caring, loving souls.

        • Ang Kernick – Dont Forget to Water

          Artist Name Ang Kernick trading as Antayjo Art
          Medium Thread, graphic marker and paint marker on paper
          Price $160
          Contact [email protected]
          Artist Statement For as long as I can remember my mental health has been something that I have needed to consistently work on. A bit like a garden that you need to tend to or water if you like, to ensure the flowers bloom. Art is my “go to” that helps me not overthink and feel some sort of peace from my thoughts.

        • Ally Stranks – Pollination

          Artist Name Ally Stranks
          Medium Watercolour – Ink Pen
          Price Not for sale
          Contact N/A
          Artist Statement I produce my work as part of an art group

        • Adi Ryan – Flashes of Light

          Artist Name Adi Ryan
          Medium Photography
          Price $10
          Contact [email protected]
          Artist Statement Sometimes all it takes is a little light to break through the darkness and allow you to start seeing colour again. Opening up to allow this light has let me once again experience the beauty beyond the dark.

        The Ballarat Mental Health Collective 2025 Art Exhibition will be displayed at the ArtBox Gallery at the Ballarat South Community Hub. The exhibition can be viewed daily from 1st – 31st October 2025.

        Vote for your favourite artwork

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        Thriving Communities Eat Well Feel Good

        Written by on . Posted in News.

        Thriving Communities

        Eat Well Feel Good Lunch

        Ballarat Community Health and the City of Ballarat have teamed up to launch the Eat Well Feel Good campaign at the Ballarat Aquatic and Lifestyle Centre (BALC), making it easier for visitors to choose healthier food and drinks.

        With over 60,000 visits each month, BALC is a busy community hub — and the Afloat Café plays a big role in helping people refuel with nutritious options.

        A recent survey showed strong interest in healthier menu choices. People asked for; more fruit and fresh salads, healthier sandwich and wrap fillings, yoghurt and granola options and fewer fried foods, sugary drinks, and confectionery.

        Based on this feedback, the café is making some great updates with support from Ballarat Community Health and the City of Ballarat; healthier drinks now fill the fridge, confectionery has been moved and reduced, popcorn is promoted over chips, a “green zone” in the display cabinet highlights nutritious options and new menu items include healthier meals, snacks, and a kids’ meal deal.

        The campaign is being promoted throughout BALC with; posters and digital screens, colouring competitions for kids, nudge cards at the counter, shelf labels to highlight healthy choices and email updates for members.

        It’s working! Early feedback shows the new healthy options are popular and selling well — a great sign that the community is on board.

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