THINGS TO DO IN BALLARAT

Arch Of Victory

The Arch commemorates the Allied victory in the Great War but, for a community finally emerging from four years of anxiety and grief, the word “Victory” offered some consolation and comfort that the hardship had not been in vain.

The Arch

Arch of Victory

The foundation stone for the Arch was laid by General Sir William Birdwood on February 7th, 1920.  A team of thirteen local bricklayers, plasterers and carpenters undertook the construction which was completed in four months and utilised 70,000 bricks donated by the local Selkirk company.  The Arch, topped by the emblem of the AIF – the Rising Sun, stands at 17.5 metres high and 19.7 metres wide is the largest commemorative arch in Australia.

The Arch was officially opened by HRH Prince Edward, the Prince of Wales, on June 2nd, 1920. 

The Arch marks the beginning of the Avenue of Honour –  Australia’s longest commemorative avenue of honour.

The memorial trees along the avenue are accompanied by a plaque each that carries the name of one of the 3,801 World War 1 service personnel who enlisted as residents of the then City of Ballaarat and Township of Ballarat East.

The Arch of Victory is just a 10 minute taxi/rideshare or car ride away from Prospect Cottage Ballarat, opposite the Ballarat Botanical Gardens.

Other places to visit…

Ballarat Skate Park

Ballarat Skate Park

Located in central Ballarat next to the Ballarat Botanical Gardens and near Victoria Park, Lake Wendouree offers a wide range of attractions and recreational activities both on and off the water.

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Accommodation near Arch Of Victory