A new Ballarat attraction will protect, conserve and encourage people to learn more about Australia’s rare trades.

The Centre for Rare Arts & Forgotten Trades is set to open this spring in the former Gold Museum next to Sovereign Hill.

A world-class education facility, it will host hands-on workshops and masterclasses with leading practitioners.

This will not only encourage innovation and exploration but also shine a light on contemporary practices that derive from historic or artisan trades.

The centre is described as being “built from a love of heritage and a desire to create things that last, and our ambition is to connect people to lifelong learning”.

“We believe in human capability and the mastery of practice and are passionate about preserving the knowledge and ability of those that have come before us.”

The first program release (see below) includes everything from knifemaking and locksmithing to weaving and armoury.

Find out more at raretradescentre.com.au