October is the peak time to view this astronomical event.
2025 has been a dazzling year of astronomical events. The planetary parade alongside a host of meteor showers like the Perseid has delighted stargazers, perfectly in line with the growing astrotourism trend. The astronomical events are set to continue this year, with the Orionid meteor shower set to peak later this month.
October 2025 is set to be a particularly good year for viewing the Orionid meteor shower, as it lines up with a new moon, which means darker skies and therefore better visibility from Earth.
What are comets and meteor showers?
2025 has been a dazzling year for watching astronomical events. (Image: Getty Images / Adventure_Photo)
World-renowned astrophotographer and educator Adam Block from the Steward Observatory, part of the Department of Astronomy at the University of Arizona, explains that comets are remnants from the early part of the solar system, made from both water ice and other frozen gases.
“Basically, you have a ball of rock with a trail of gas coming out behind it. It’s the sun that controls all of that; the solar wind blows the gas back," he tells Australian Traveller. “But it’s not just gas; there are also particles of dust released and liberated from the surface of this dirty iceball."
That gas and dust particles released from the surface form a tail behind the comet, creating a trail in space.
“If the Earth runs through that stream of dust, those dust particles will enter the Earth’s atmosphere at around 30 kilometres per second, so they literally burn up in the upper atmosphere," he says.
Simply put, the resulting light trail is the meteor.
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The Orionids and Halley’s comet
A comet is an icy, dusty celestial body that orbits the sun. (Image: Adam Block)
Halley’s Comet is one of the most famous comets. Last seen in 1986, it appears roughly every 75 years, with its expected return in 2061. Even though Halley’s Comet isn’t visible in the sky right now, the Orionids are one of the two meteor showers that it creates.
When is the best time to see the Orionids?
The Orionids meteor shower occurs from 26 September to November.
According to Adam, the best time to view the Orionids is after midnight, when the Earth is turned and facing the same direction as we are travelling through space, and it directly encounters the meteoroid stream.
October 20-21 will offer the best viewing opportunities because of the new moon, which offers extra dark skies. Adam also advises heading away from city lights.
How to see the Orionid meteor shower
The good news, according to Adam, is that you don’t need a telescope or optical aid to witness the event; you just need “a dark sky, a clear view and some patience."
For the Orionids, the average is roughly 20 meteors per hour. But given you can’t see the whole sky at once, Adam says you’re doing well if you see a meteor once every five or 10 minutes.
And if you’re lucky, he says you might even see a fireball, also known as a bolide.
Rachael Thompson is Australian Traveller's Evergreen Editor and a self-proclaimed cheese and Chablis connoisseur. In her role, she creates and manages online content that remains relevant and valuable over time. With a background in publishing and e-commerce in both interior design and travel, Rachael is dedicated to curating engaging content that informs and inspires. She began her career at Belle magazine, then went on to become Senior Content Producer at Homes to Love focusing on Australian House & Garden and Belle, followed by Editor at Bed Threads. Her work has also appeared in Qantas Travel Insider. When she's not writing, editing, or optimising content, Rachael enjoys exploring the city's newest restaurants, bars, and hotels. Next on her Aussie travel wish list are Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park and Lord Howe Island.
In recent years, Ballarat has emerged as one of Victoria’s most dynamic and daring cities. And, this spring, two unexpected creative showcases will take over the town.
No matter the season, it’s always a good time to visit Ballarat – but spring might be the most ideal. The weather is warmer, the skies are clearer, the flowers across its botanical landscapes are in bloom. And events in Ballarat transform the city into a playground of creativity.
This year, Ballarat will welcome both new and returning artistic events, best paired with a jaunt through the city’s eclectic array of things to eat, drink and explore. Here’s how to spend a spring weekend in this cool cultural hub.
The events
Two of the most exciting events hitting Ballarat this spring are the 2025 Ballarat International Foto Biennale and the inaugural edition of Sunnyside, a captivating and immersive art extravaganza.
Ballarat International Foto Biennale
Discover powerful stories through the lens at Ballarat International Foto Biennale. (Image: Astrid Mulder)
Whether you’re a photography enthusiast or simply curious, the Ballarat International Foto Biennale is a must. The event permeates the entire city, with works by over 360 local and international photographers adorning over 100 buildings, businesses, streets and public spaces.
This year marks the 11th chapter and will centre on ‘Lifeforce’ – a theme that’s all about humanity and connection. Among the many talents on show, the headline artist is Campbell Addy, a British-Ghanaian creative who explores roots and identity. Be sure to visit before it ends in 2025 on 19 October.
Sunnyside
Explore 17 days of bold art at Sunnyside. (Image: Nice To Meet You Again, Morag Myerscough 2023. Photographer: Gareth Gardner)
Sunnyside is making its debut this year, introducing a brand-new celebration of colour, creativity and community to Ballarat. The 17-day celebration, from 6 to 23 November, will feature immersive installations and experiences, talks, a vibrant opening night gala, and workshops covering everything from crochet to neon block printing.
Internationally acclaimed London-based artist Morag Myerscough will lead the celebration and convert Ballarat’s historic Mining Exchange – a gold rush era trading hall – and the city’s streets into a multi-sensory art spectacle.
While you’re there
Don’t miss out on everything else Ballarat has to offer. Here’s where to eat, drink, see and stay in the city.
Where to eat
Savour bold Latin American dishes at Pancho. (Image: Einwick)
For daytime dining, you’re spoiled for choice. Johnny Alloo does contemporary cafe fare in a warm and inviting space, while Hydrant Food Hall is a popular pick for breakfast and lunch classics. Eclectic Tastes makes seasonal dishes that incorporate plenty of local produce, giving you a great opportunity to taste the region’s flavours.
At night, head to Roy Hammond for delicious cocktails and contemporary Asian-inspired eats or Pancho for vibrant (and very good) Latin American food in fun surrounds. At Hop Temple, you’ll find an incredible selection of craft beers (more than 200, to be exact) and punchy pub fare, or you can head slightly out of town for tasty bistro classics at the historic and character-filled Buninyong Hotel .
In the mood for something fancy? Visit one of Ballarat’s many hatted restaurants, like Babae (produce-driven fine dining inspired by regional Victoria), Mr Jones (modern Asian by a chef with a Michelin pedigree) and Underbar (an ultra-exclusive spot doing ultra-refined tasting menus).
Where to drink
Relax over wine at Blue Pyrenees Estate. (Image: Visit Victoria)
No matter your poison, you’ll find a venue to suit in Ballarat. Aunty Jacks is a local institution, serving a generous line-up of beers made in the on-site brewery. Renard is perfect for a pre-dinner drink or nightcap, with a menu that spans creative signature cocktails, locally produced wines and Australian spirits.
Try some of Ballarat’s finest creations at one of its many boutique distilleries, includingGrainery Lane and Itinerant Spirits. The former specialises in gin and vodka, while the latter offers gin, vodka and craft whiskey. Buy a bottle from either as a memento of your trip.
You can also venture a little further afield to one of the area’s renowned wineries and cellar doors. There are 25 scattered around the Pyrenees (Ballarat’s very own surrounding wine region), including Dalwhinnie, Summerfield and Blue Pyrenees Estate. Eastern Peake – a family-owned winery led by Young Gun of Wine 2025, Owen Latta – is also a must-visit.
What to see
Meet a koala at Ballarat Wildlife Park. (Image: Visit Victoria)
If you’ve got time to spare after the thrill of the spring festivities, there’s lots to see and do. More art can be found in the city’s streets and laneways, with local street artists transforming the walls with impressive murals and installations.
Ballarat is equally renowned for its heritage architecture, much of which flourished during the gold rush. Notable buildings include Ballarat Town Hall, Her Majesty’s Theatre and Craig’s Royal Hotel, all located centrally and within walking distance of one another.
Travelling with kids? Head to Sovereign Hill for a living-history adventure or Ballarat Wildlife Park to meet koalas, reptiles and free-roaming kangaroos.
Where to stay
Enjoy all-out luxury at Hotel Vera. (Image: Visit Victoria)
If you’re venturing to the city by train and want to stay somewhere central, Quest Ballarat Station is an excellent pick. The modern serviced apartments are situated just 250m from the station and a short stroll from downtown Ballarat, making coming, going and exploring the city incredibly easy. There’s also an on-site gym, barbecue area and accessible rooms available.
For a touch of French luxe in regional Victoria, The Provincial Hotel is a standout choice, with gorgeously appointed rooms and suites in a restored heritage-listed building. The hotel is also conveniently located on Lydiard Street, which is lined with grand historic architecture.
If you’re after something truly luxe, book a few nights at Hotel Vera. The exclusive collection of only seven suites presents all-out opulence: think lush linens, designer furniture, works by notable artists and gilded touches. It also happens to house fine-dining favourite Babae, making it an optimal stay if you’re keen to try the restaurant.
Getting there
Turn your Ballarat visit into a memorable weekend. (Image: Einwick)
One of the best things about Ballarat is its proximity to Melbourne. It’s only 90 minutes away by car – an easy journey down the Western Freeway – or can be easily reached by rail. The train from Southern Cross to Ballarat Station takes less than 90 minutes and drops you right in the centre of town.
