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Ballarat’s Best Pie Awards Ceremony 2026

Itinerant Spirits

200 Lydiard Street North,
Soldiers Hill VIC 3350

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  • Sat 1 Aug

3pm–4pm

The humble pie takes centre stage as Ballarat's most delicious competition returns.

Come along to Itinerant Spirits to witness the crowning of the winners of Ballarat's Best Pie 2026.

From classic favourites to Brilliantly Unexpected twists, this year's entries highlight the creativity, passion and skill of Ballarat's talented local bakers and chefs.

Expect good vibes, great company and a big serve of regional pride, celebrating the very best pies Ballarat has to offer.

This year's judging panel includes Ballarat's very own Tim Bone, Herald Sun food and wine editor Kara Monssen, acclaimed Melbourne chef Alejandro Saravia, food writer Richard Cornish plus City of Ballarat Deputy Mayor Cr Ben Taylor. Award categories include Ballarat's Best Pie 2026, Best Savoury Pie, Best Sweet Pie, Best Bakery Pie, Brilliantly Unexpected Pie, and People's Choice Pie.

Winners take home serious bragging rights plus a custom handcrafted pie dish by Ballarat ceramicist Shelby Sherritt.

And from 1-31 August, vote for your favourite in the People's Choice Pie competition. Cast your vote and go in the running to win a Ballarat escape for two valued at over $1200 (conditions apply).

The winner of People's Choice Pie will be announced in September.

Content: City of Ballarat

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Visitor Information Centres

Ballarat Town Hall
225 Sturt Street
Ballarat VIC 3350

Ballarat Botanical Gardens
401-405 Wendouree Parade
Lake Wendouree VIC 3350

Acknowledgement of Country

Across Victoria’s Midwest, we acknowledge that we travel across the ancient landscapes of many First Peoples communities. These lands have been nurtured and cared for over tens of thousands of years and we respect the work of Traditional Custodians for their ongoing care and protection.

We recognise the past injustices against Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in this country. As our knowledge grows, we hope that we can learn from their resilience and creativity that has guided them for over 60,000 years. As we invite people to visit and explore Victoria’s Midwest, we ask that alongside us, you also grow to respect the stories, living culture and connection to Country of the Ancestors and Elders of our First Peoples.


©️ 2026 Visit Ballarat. This initiative is funded by the City of Ballarat and Tourism Midwest Victoria.