What's on

Inside the Botanical Studio: A Spot It Adventure

Gatekepers Cottage Ballarat Botanical Gardens

Nursery Drive, North Gardens Reserve,
Ballarat VIC 3350

Get directions

  • 17–25 May

10am–4pm

Step into a live recreation of a 19th-century botanist's field tent and test your observation skills with the Spot It!

Challenge, a fun and interactive experience for families and sharp-eyed explorers during the Ballarat Heritage Festival.



Nestled inside the Gatekeeper's Cottage, this hands-on installation invites you to explore the canvas tent of a travelling botanical artist. Inside, you'll find pressed flowers, sketchbooks, watercolour palettes, specimen jars, and all the fascinating tools of the trade.



But hidden among the details are eight secret objects waiting to be found. Can you spot the magnifying glass, hidden butterfly, and unfinished drawing?

 Pick up your Spot It! game sheet, search the tent, and return for a special artist's stamp when complete!

 A perfect activity for curious minds of all ages, blending nature, art, and a touch of adventure.

Free to play – drop in anytime!

Schools, scout groups, family groups of more than 10 will need to book a time.

Content: Friends of the Ballarat Botanical Gardens, Ballarat Botanikids

Accessibility Information

  • Welcomes and assists people who have challenges with learning, communication, understanding and behaviour. (includes people with autism, intellectual disability, Down syndrome, acquired brain injury (ABI), dyslexia and dementia)
  • Caters for people who use a wheelchair.

Please note: The accessibility information above is provided by the business operator. For more information, please contact the business directly.

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.


©️ 2025 Visit Ballarat. This initiative is funded by the City of Ballarat and Tourism Midwest Victoria.