The summer edition of ourballarat is out now

There’s something for everyone in the latest edition of the ourballarat magazine, which is hitting mailboxes across Ballarat now.  

The ourballarat magazine is produced by the City of Ballarat. The articles are designed to keep residents and ratepayers up-to-date with services, programs, initiatives and events delivered by the City of Ballarat.

This front cover of the summer edition features ninety-two-year-old local artist Tamara Bekier and her exhibition Between Worlds, which is currently on display at the Art Gallery of Ballarat.

Born in Russia, Tamara’s family were taken to Germany during World War II and subjected to unimaginable degradation. Her exhibition, filled with dense and colorful works, explores the contrast between her experiences in Europe and her life in Australia.  

Art Gallery of Ballarat Director Louise Tegart said Tamara’s exhibition reflected the Gallery’s ongoing support and celebration of artists living within the Ballarat community.   “We see the importance of reflecting the stories and experiences of our community, as well as providing opportunities for local artists to their stories through their art practice,” she said.  

“Tamara Bekier has lived an extraordinary life — these are exciting works by an important artist living in our community.”  

The summer edition also features a summer events calendar including an interview with local rapper Sami Regague, who performed at the popular Spilt Milk festival at the weekend.  

Several City of Ballarat staff also feature in this edition, including the Emergency Management team who have been working hard to prepare the city for the fire season. Readers will also meet the team behind the magnificent Victoria Street gardens, who create the annual Christmas garden displays each year.  

Readers will also meet the new Ageing Well Services team and discover the ways they are supporting community members aged 55 and over.  

The results from the ourballarat magazine consultation, which occurred throughout September and October, are currently being collated by council officers, with results to be released early in 2024.  

The summer edition of the ourballarat magazine is available online. Residents can also pick up a copy of the magazine from the City of Ballarat facilities including Customer Service Centre and Visitor Information Centre.  

To learn more about Tamara Bekier and her exhibition, watch her interview with ourballarat here.