FAQs

To enquire about dates, pricing or to book a tour, you can contact the Ballara Receptions team by phone, email or through the website enquiry form. A function specialist will guide you through availability, packages and the next steps to secure your date.

These options depend on safety regulations, local council requirements and venue policies. They must be discussed and approved in advance.

In many cases, pets are welcome to be part of outdoor ceremonies, subject to prior arrangement and venue guidelines.

Ballara is suitable year round:

– Spring and summer offer lush gardens and long daylight for outdoor ceremonies and photos 

– Autumn provides warm colors and soft light 

– Winter is ideal for romantic chapel ceremonies and cosy receptions, with the added benefit of extended reception hours in winter months 

Most couples host between 80 and 140 guests at Ballara, but the venue can comfortably accommodate both smaller and larger groups within its capacity.

Reception end times depend on the package, any pre arranged extensions and licensing requirements. Exact times can be confirmed with your function manager.

Yes. Ballara is accessible for guests with mobility needs. You can discuss specific requirements with the team.

Yes. Ballara provides onsite parking for guests.

In the Prestige Package, a 5 hour DJ and MC service from Ballara’s preferred supplier is included. In other packages, you can either arrange your own DJ or add one through Ballara.

Yes. Ballara offers a variety of picturesque photo spots, including:

– The private lake and jetty 

– Manicured gardens and weeping willows 

– The chapel interior and exterior 

– The courtyard and verandahs 

– Fairy lit gardens and outdoor spaces at night

External catering is generally not required, as Ballara provides full in house catering. In some cultural or specific circumstances, arrangements may be discussed with the venue.

Yes. Ballara can cater for a wide range of dietary requirements, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten free, dairy free, nut free and halal friendly needs. Dietary details are confirmed closer to the event.

Yes. Menu tastings are offered, giving couples the opportunity to sample dishes and finalise menu selections.

Yes. Many couples incorporate cultural rituals, special entrances, traditional music, symbolic ceremonies and specific decor. These can be discussed with your function manager to ensure they are accommodated within venue guidelines.

Yes. Ballara frequently hosts multicultural and multifaith weddings, including Indian, Sri Lankan, Chinese, Greek, Italian and many other cultural backgrounds.

Yes. Ballara offers beverage upgrades including:

– Premium beer or cider upgrades 

– Cocktail service at canape or gap time 

– Spirit service packages 

These can be discussed with your wedding coordinator.

The standard beverage package usually includes:

– De Bortoli Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Moscato, Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon 

– De Bortoli Sparkling Cuvee 

– Carlton Draught, Great Northern and Cascade Light beers 

– Soft drinks, orange juice and water 

Spirits can be added at bar prices or as part of an agreed package.

The grazing cocktail style reception generally includes:

– A more casual reception layout with lounges, bar tables and seated areas 

– A grazing table with cheeses, cured meats, fruit, vegetables, dips, breads and crackers 

– Roaming canapes served to guests 

– Dessert buffet or dessert grazing station 

– Tea, coffee and wedding cake 

The shared feasting package generally includes:

– 5 hour reception duration 

– Chef selection of hot canapes with pre dinner drinks 

– For weddings with more than 100 adults, the Little Ballara Cart used as a bar for pre dinner drinks 

– Shared antipasto platter entree 

– Three roast meats with two salads served to the table as mains 

– Platters of petite desserts for each table 

– Tea, coffee and wedding cake 

The alternate drop package generally includes:

– 5 hour reception duration 

– Chef selection of hot canapes served in the foyer and on the front verandah with pre dinner drinks 

– For weddings with more than 100 adults, an additional Little Ballara Cart bar for pre dinner drink service 

– A three course gourmet meal with two choices per course served alternating 

– Tea, coffee and wedding cake served to guests 

Ballara offers three main menu formats:

– Alternate drop plated dining 

– Shared feasting style 

– Grazing cocktail reception 

Each format includes canapes and dessert, plus tea and coffee and your wedding cake served.

Yes. You are welcome to use your preferred external vendors for photography, videography, styling and floral design.

Yes. Private venue tours are highly recommended. You can walk through the chapel, gardens, reception space and grounds, and discuss your plans with the function team.