Victoria Park is set to be transformed into a giant campground this week as Girl Guides from all over Australia descend on Ballarat.
The Australian Girl Guide Jamboree, known as Kani-Karrung, will be held in Ballarat from 15-21 January.
Kani-Karrung is a Wadawurrung word which means “women camping together”.
The camp will see girls aged 10-17 call Victoria Park home for a week of fun activities, developing lifelong friendships and empowering them to discover their potential as leaders.
It is expected more than 1000 guides will be in attendance, as well as 450 adult volunteers.
Jamborees are usually held every three years, but due to the COVID pandemic, the last such event was held in Sydney in 2018.
Included in the week will be activities on Lake Wendouree, bushwalking, rock climbing, city exploring and even some trips to Melbourne or the beach.
City of Ballarat Deputy Mayor, Cr Amy Johnson said the council was very excited for so many Girl Guides to visit the city.
“It sounds like the girls have an amazing week ahead of them in and around Ballarat,” Cr Johnson said.
“We are thrilled to see Victoria Park used in such a way and see it become a hive of activity.
“Recently we saw the park used for Spilt Milk music festival and I can’t wait to see it transformed again for the Girl Guides’ event.
“I encourage everyone in Ballarat to make them feel welcome and we hope to see them come back again in the future.”
The City of Ballarat attracted the event through the Tourism Event Grant Program, while also making Victoria Park available.
Chief Commissioner for Girl Guides Australia Rosemary Derwin said the entire organisation was excited to come to Ballarat.
“Girl Guides thank the Ballarat community for being so welcoming; we are excited to be gathering in Ballarat,” she said.
“A Girl Guide Jamboree is an unforgettable adventure. Those attending have an exciting week. They will discover, explore, create and achieve. They will make wonderful new friendships and create lifelong memories.”
There will be limited access to Victoria Park throughout the event, with setup and road closures already underway this week.
Victoria Park road closures
The following roads will be closed until 3pm on Monday 23 January:
Military Drive
Elm Avenue
Pine Avenue
Cedar Ave between Winter Street and Quercus Avenue
The following roads will be closed all day Wednesday 18 January:
Military Drive
Elm Avenue
Pine Avenue
Cedar Avenue
Quercus Avenue
Poplar Avenue
