- Published:
- Friday 16 March 2018
Ballarat will come alive and welcome thousands of visitors this weekend as White Night returns for a second time.
Minister for Tourism and Major Events John Eren joined Member for Wendouree Sharon Knight, Member for Buninyong Geoff Howard and White Night Artistic Director David Atkins OAM in Ballarat today to officially launch the event and inspect final preparations.
In a testament to the success of the inaugural Ballarat White Night last year – this year’s program has doubled in size, with more than half of the commissions created by local artists.
Locals and visitors can look forward to seeing Stuart Walsh’s Ghosts of Eureka – a large scale light and audio installation that brings the Eureka Stockade of 1854 to life.
Then there’s The Eagle – an LED animation of Bunjil, the creator, inspired by the artwork of Ballarat’s Auntie and Indigenous Elder Marlene Gibson.
Overhead skyline drone imaging will be used to create Ballarat from Above, while the Town Hall and Craig’s Royal Hotel projections will bathe the city in colourful light.
These highlights, plus many more, will combine the signature visuals that White Night is famous for with the unique character of Ballarat.
The first White Night in regional Victoria saw more than 40,000 people flock to the centre of Ballarat, generating more than $3 million for Ballarat’s economy – and this year is tipped to get even bigger.
White Night Ballarat will take place Saturday 17 March from 7:00pm and run until 2:00am – rain, hail or shine. For more information on the program and how to get there visit whitenight.com.au/ballarat.
Quote attributable to Minister for Tourism and Major Events John Eren
“White Night isn’t just about fancy lights and installations – it’s an incredible opportunity to support local businesses, back local jobs and bring thousands of new visitors to the region.”
Quote attributable to Minister for Creative Industries Martin Foley
“White Night is a celebration of our best creative minds. It gives our talented local artists the chance to get involved, showcase their work to thousands of people and put their unique stamp on Ballarat.”
Quote attributable to Member for Wendouree Sharon Knight
“Tomorrow night, Ballarat will put on a show. And going by last year’s success, I know this year’s White Night won’t disappoint.”
Quote attributable to Member for Buninyong Geoff Howard
“We’re so proud to be bringing White Night back to Ballarat – creating more business for local traders and providing a real shot in the arm to our local economy.”