Journalist and co-host of Network Ten’s Studio 10 and host of Shark Tank talks about her love of camping and how to hit Fortitude Valley.
1. As a child, our family holidays were always to…
Cheap and cheerful spots where we would pitch a tent and get back to nature. One of my favourite places to go as a kid was Second Lagoon on Bribie Island, where you can camp almost on the beach, just behind the dunes. Falling asleep to the roar of the ocean is heaven!
2. Now if I have time for a short break…
I love to pop down to the Gold Coast to unwind. Tallebudgera Creek and Palm Beach are gorgeous, easygoing places.
3. My local’s tip for my home town brisbane is…
To make sure you grab some brunch at a cool cafe in Fortitude Valley before taking a stroll along the Riverwalk in the sunshine. Finish the day with a cheap beer at Merthyr Bowls Club at New Farm on the river – they do great food, too.
4. My souvenir of choice is…
A fridge magnet. I’m a sucker for these from faraway places – the gaudier, the better.
Need tips, more detail or itinerary ideas tailored to you? Ask AT.
AI Prompt
5. My carry-on is usually filled with…
A spare change of clothes, a book and a pack of cucumber and aloe make-up wipes, which are great for a quick ‘truckie shower’ if you want to feel fresh in a hurry.
6. My travel wardrobe always consists of…
A super comfy pair of walking shoes. I love getting to know new places on foot.
7. When I’m on the road, I’m listening to/watching…
A new podcast or documentary on my iPhone, but if I’m on a plane for any extended period of time then it’s trashy reality telly all the way!
8. My last holiday read was…
Murder in Mississippi by John Safran. It’s a murder mystery that I could not put down when I visited Positano in Italy a couple of years back. I was pregnant with my son, Paul, so I took that trip a little easier, soaking up the sun and reading by the beach.
9. I can’t leave home without my…
Cucumber and aloe wipes! The next time you’re on a plane for 14 hours, you’ll know why.
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10. My favourite Australian restaurant is…
A little Italian joint called Il Perugino in Mosman, Sydney. The staff are warm, the food is authentic and it’s a special place for my hubby and me – he proposed after dinner there.
11. The most adventurous thing I’ve ever done on holiday is…
Well, I’m actually pretty sedate on holidays. I’d rather chill out and recharge than chase an adrenaline high. While my husband has run with the bulls in Spain, the most daring thing I’ve done is get a fish pedicure in Thailand.
12. The last place I visited was…
Zurich, Switzerland (stunning place, so expensive!) for three days and we haven’t really had a holiday since having our son (born December 2015). I think we’re at that phase of our lives where our trips will be very kid friendly. I just have to convince my city-slicker husband to give camping a go.
Watch Sarah on Shark Tank, which airs Tuesday evenings on TEN.
In recent years, Ballarat has emerged as one of Victoria’s most dynamic and daring cities. And, this spring, two unexpected creative showcases will take over the town.
No matter the season, it’s always a good time to visit Ballarat – but spring might be the most ideal. The weather is warmer, the skies are clearer, the flowers across its botanical landscapes are in bloom. And events in Ballarat transform the city into a playground of creativity.
This year, Ballarat will welcome both new and returning artistic events, best paired with a jaunt through the city’s eclectic array of things to eat, drink and explore. Here’s how to spend a spring weekend in this cool cultural hub.
The events
Two of the most exciting events hitting Ballarat this spring are the 2025 Ballarat International Foto Biennale and the inaugural edition of Sunnyside, a captivating and immersive art extravaganza.
Ballarat International Foto Biennale
Discover powerful stories through the lens at Ballarat International Foto Biennale. (Image: Astrid Mulder)
Whether you’re a photography enthusiast or simply curious, the Ballarat International Foto Biennale is a must. The event permeates the entire city, with works by over 360 local and international photographers adorning over 100 buildings, businesses, streets and public spaces.
This year marks the 11th chapter and will centre on ‘Lifeforce’ – a theme that’s all about humanity and connection. Among the many talents on show, the headline artist is Campbell Addy, a British-Ghanaian creative who explores roots and identity. Be sure to visit before it ends in 2025 on 19 October.
Sunnyside
Explore 17 days of bold art at Sunnyside. (Image: Nice To Meet You Again, Morag Myerscough 2023. Photographer: Gareth Gardner)
Sunnyside is making its debut this year, introducing a brand-new celebration of colour, creativity and community to Ballarat. The 17-day celebration, from 6 to 23 November, will feature immersive installations and experiences, talks, a vibrant opening night gala, and workshops covering everything from crochet to neon block printing.
Internationally acclaimed London-based artist Morag Myerscough will lead the celebration and convert Ballarat’s historic Mining Exchange – a gold rush era trading hall – and the city’s streets into a multi-sensory art spectacle.
While you’re there
Don’t miss out on everything else Ballarat has to offer. Here’s where to eat, drink, see and stay in the city.
Where to eat
Savour bold Latin American dishes at Pancho. (Image: Einwick)
For daytime dining, you’re spoiled for choice. Johnny Alloo does contemporary cafe fare in a warm and inviting space, while Hydrant Food Hall is a popular pick for breakfast and lunch classics. Eclectic Tastes makes seasonal dishes that incorporate plenty of local produce, giving you a great opportunity to taste the region’s flavours.
At night, head to Roy Hammond for delicious cocktails and contemporary Asian-inspired eats or Pancho for vibrant (and very good) Latin American food in fun surrounds. At Hop Temple, you’ll find an incredible selection of craft beers (more than 200, to be exact) and punchy pub fare, or you can head slightly out of town for tasty bistro classics at the historic and character-filled Buninyong Hotel .
In the mood for something fancy? Visit one of Ballarat’s many hatted restaurants, like Babae (produce-driven fine dining inspired by regional Victoria), Mr Jones (modern Asian by a chef with a Michelin pedigree) and Underbar (an ultra-exclusive spot doing ultra-refined tasting menus).
Where to drink
Relax over wine at Blue Pyrenees Estate. (Image: Visit Victoria)
No matter your poison, you’ll find a venue to suit in Ballarat. Aunty Jacks is a local institution, serving a generous line-up of beers made in the on-site brewery. Renard is perfect for a pre-dinner drink or nightcap, with a menu that spans creative signature cocktails, locally produced wines and Australian spirits.
Try some of Ballarat’s finest creations at one of its many boutique distilleries, includingGrainery Lane and Itinerant Spirits. The former specialises in gin and vodka, while the latter offers gin, vodka and craft whiskey. Buy a bottle from either as a memento of your trip.
You can also venture a little further afield to one of the area’s renowned wineries and cellar doors. There are 25 scattered around the Pyrenees (Ballarat’s very own surrounding wine region), including Dalwhinnie, Summerfield and Blue Pyrenees Estate. Eastern Peake – a family-owned winery led by Young Gun of Wine 2025, Owen Latta – is also a must-visit.
What to see
Meet a koala at Ballarat Wildlife Park. (Image: Visit Victoria)
If you’ve got time to spare after the thrill of the spring festivities, there’s lots to see and do. More art can be found in the city’s streets and laneways, with local street artists transforming the walls with impressive murals and installations.
Ballarat is equally renowned for its heritage architecture, much of which flourished during the gold rush. Notable buildings include Ballarat Town Hall, Her Majesty’s Theatre and Craig’s Royal Hotel, all located centrally and within walking distance of one another.
Travelling with kids? Head to Sovereign Hill for a living-history adventure or Ballarat Wildlife Park to meet koalas, reptiles and free-roaming kangaroos.
Where to stay
Enjoy all-out luxury at Hotel Vera. (Image: Visit Victoria)
If you’re venturing to the city by train and want to stay somewhere central, Quest Ballarat Station is an excellent pick. The modern serviced apartments are situated just 250m from the station and a short stroll from downtown Ballarat, making coming, going and exploring the city incredibly easy. There’s also an on-site gym, barbecue area and accessible rooms available.
For a touch of French luxe in regional Victoria, The Provincial Hotel is a standout choice, with gorgeously appointed rooms and suites in a restored heritage-listed building. The hotel is also conveniently located on Lydiard Street, which is lined with grand historic architecture.
If you’re after something truly luxe, book a few nights at Hotel Vera. The exclusive collection of only seven suites presents all-out opulence: think lush linens, designer furniture, works by notable artists and gilded touches. It also happens to house fine-dining favourite Babae, making it an optimal stay if you’re keen to try the restaurant.
Getting there
Turn your Ballarat visit into a memorable weekend. (Image: Einwick)
One of the best things about Ballarat is its proximity to Melbourne. It’s only 90 minutes away by car – an easy journey down the Western Freeway – or can be easily reached by rail. The train from Southern Cross to Ballarat Station takes less than 90 minutes and drops you right in the centre of town.
