Ballarat is famous for its gold rush history, beautiful town centre and attractions. It is also a spot for pickleball enthusiasts. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, discover how you can enjoy pickleball with your friends and family in this historic town.
The Bros recently went on a family holiday for a long weekend to Ballarat. And wouldn’t you know it, Ballarat isn’t just a gold mining town anymore, they have Pickleball, and plenty of it.
We put together this guide on playing Pickleball in Ballarat. Whether you are new in town looking to play, a pickleball beginner or a tourist passing through. Ballarat has it all.
Let’s take a look at where you can play Pickleball in Ballarat
Key Takeaways:
- Pickleball in Historic Ballarat: Known for its gold rush history, Ballarat now offers great pickleball facilities, making it a must-visit for players and tourists alike.
- Top Venues to Play: Play competitively at Ken Kay Badminton Stadium or if you are a tourist, stay and play with family at Sovereign Park Motor Inn, both perfect for different levels of play.
- A Perfect Blend of Fun and Tourism: Combine pickleball with Ballarat’s attractions like Sovereign Hill and botanical gardens for a fun family-friendly getaway.
Where To Play Pickleball in Ballarat
Ballarat has a healthy Pickleball community. Just visit the Pickleball Ballarat Facebook page for evidence of that. Ballarat also has two great options for Pickleballers, perfect for beginners through to experts. Let’s take a look at their amazing local Pickleball court.
1. Local Pickleball Courts
The Ballarat Badminton Association is located on the outskirts of the city of Ballarat called Wendouree. It is located at the Ken Kay Badminton Stadium, the venue aims to introduce new players to Badminton. The place is huge with 6 courts available for Pickleball play.
PROS
- 6 Courts Available for Pickleball
- Many sessions available for Play
- Great Community of Players in Ballarat
CONS
- N/A
How to get Started
Social and competition Pickleball is available at the venue for all players. Check the Badminton Ballarat Website Pickleball Page for pickleball game times. Or visit the Ballarat Pickleball page for the latest information on competitions, times and details.
Local Court Details
- Location: Ken Kay Badminton Stadium, Dowling Street, Wendouree
- Features: 6 well lit, indoor courts available for play.
- Availability: Different Sessions are available on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and most Sundays for social or competition play.
- Booking: Pickleball beginners may want to call Ballarat Badminton or visit the Pickleball Ballarat Facebook page. Existing or experienced players could jump onto the Pickleball Ballarat court bookings page.
- Who plays: Regular Social and Competition sessions are available.
- Cost: Members $5 and Non-Members $9 per session.
Local Court Contact Details:
Details to contact Ballarat Pickleball to book or play at the Ken Kay Badminton Stadium.
- Phone Number: 03 5339 4601
- Website: Ballarat Badminton Pickleball Page
- Facebook Page: Ballarat Pickleball Facebook Page
- Timetable for social play and court hire: Ballarat Badminton Portal Page
2. Tourist Park with Pickleball Courts
At the moment, there is one tourist park with Pickleball Courts in Ballarat. Let’s take a look.
Sovereign Park Motor Inn
In the heart of Ballarat is the Sovereign Park Motor Inn and it welcomes over 1000 customers every week. It’s located 5 minute away from Sovereign Hill, Sovereign Park has an extensive range of facilities. From a heated pool, complete gym, and of course, a Pickleball court.
PROS
- Courts Available for All-Day play
- Paddles and Balls available from Reception
- Perfect way to get your family into Pickleball while on holiday
CONS
- Dead Spots on the Court
- Low roof can doesn’t allow for high lobs
The Sovereign Park Experience
The Bros and their extended family stayed at Sovereign Park had a fantastic time. And it was a luxury being able to play Pickleball any time, any day. Paddles and balls are available at reception and the best part was we could get the extended family involved.
They had all heard of this new game with a weird name, but had never played Pickleball before. Older relatives and non-sport playing wives all got involved. Even other holiday-makers saw us having fun and joined in for a few games.
And the best part, the friends and family that played Pickleball for the first time enjoyed the experience. They finally understand what Pickleball is about and they want to play again back in the real world.
The only downside is the court has a few dead spots on it. So you need to allow for that, but that doesn’t stop the holiday fun with family and friends having a great time. And it is a way to get your family hooked on pickleball by stealth. That is a WIN.
Sovereign Park Details
- Location: 223 Main Rd, Ballarat VIC 3350
- Facilities: The Motor Inn has a gym, indoor heated pool, spa, sauna, table tennis, pool table and pickleball court. More than enough to keep the family happy and entertained.
- Ideal for tourists: It was great to combine pickleball with a holiday away. And it was great to get other family members to finally try the sport and who enjoyed pickleball and want to play again.
- Cost: Depending on Room size and room type, it could cost $200+. Best to check the Motor Inn and see what is available.
Sovereign Park Contact Details
Details to contact Sovereign Park Motor Inn to book accommodation or ask questions about their Pickleball facilities.
- Phone Number: 03 5331 3955
- Website: Sovereign Park Website
- Bookings: Sovereign Park Bookings
- Email Address: reservations@sovpark.com
Getting Started with Pickleball in Ballarat
There are two great options for playing pickleball in Ballarat. The Badminton Stadium with Pickleball Ballarat or the Sovereign Park Motor Inn Court. But which one is right for you, based on your skill level and location Let’s take a look.
1. Badminton Stadium: Ballarat Locals or Tourists
The Badminton Stadium is perfect for Ballarat Locals or Tourists that want to play.
Pickleball Beginners
If you have never picked up a paddle, joining a Beginners session via Pickleball Ballarat is your best choice. Most venues will ask if you have played before and help walk you through the rules. And they will have equipment so you can easily pick up and play pickleball.
Social or Competitive Pickleball Players
More experienced players can play a social game, or play a competetive game at the Stadium. WIth so many sessions available, it’s a great option for Pickleballers.
2. Sovereign Park: Tourists Only
The Sovereign Park court is only available for people staying at the Motel.
Pickleball Beginners
The Motor Inn is great to have a hit or play a casual game just to try Pickleball. If you want to bring your own paddles and balls, you can buy a Super Cheap Paddle Set and have a go. Well worth the $15-50 investment to get started playing the game.
Social or Competitive Pickleball Players
Experienced players that are visiting Ballarat may get frustrated by the dead spots on the court. The court is great for a casual game, while holding a beverage and playing with family. But for a competitive game, head to the Badminton Stadium.
There are two different options available for playing Pickleball in Ballarat. Tourists of all skill levels can try both, but any player cannot go wrong playing at the Pickleball Stadium.
Why Ballarat Pickleball Fits Perfectly with Tourism
When you aren’t looking for your next Pickleball fix, there is a lot of great places to visit in Ballarat. On the top of that list of Ballarat Tourist attractions is Sovereign Hill, which is in walking distance from the Sovereign Park Motor Inn. The history of Ballarat and the gold rush of the 1850s is fascinating, you MUST visit this “living museum”.
The city centre is amazing too. It has old buildings and monuments and plaques with stories of the past on every corner. Ballarat has the richest history of any city in Victoria and the Bros enjoyed the learning about the era.
Ballarat is a beautiful city with the Botanical Gardens, Ballarat wild life park and lush greenery. There are also some different places to check out, like Kryal Castle. And don’t forget the Ballarat Vintage & Collectable Market. The Bros dropped some cash there too.
As you can see, Ballarat has a lot to see and do. And when you have some spare time, a pickleball game is not far away. Ballarat is a great place to visit and explore. The Bros, and our extended family had a fantastic Pickleball long weekend.
Final Thoughts
Grab some paddles, coerce your family and take a pickleball vacation in Ballarat. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just curious about the game, Ballarat offers the perfect mix of pickleball fun and an amazing tourist experience.
It’s the best way to spend time with your family, get them hooked on pickleball, and enjoy a pickleball fueled vacation. Pickleball tourism is becoming a thing in the United States, and we can see the appeal. It’s so much fun. Seriously, grab a paddle and plan your trip today. Tell them the Bros sent you.
Pickle On!
The Aussie Pickleball Bros.