Overview
The Ballarat Marathon draws about 2,300 finishers each May through Victoria's historic gold-rush city. The course passes Lake Wendouree, the Eureka Stockade memorial, and the Victorian-era boulevards of central Ballarat. May autumn weather in the western Victorian highlands and a rolling goldfields profile make it regional Victoria's premier marathon.
Ballarat Marathon is a certified 42.195 km (26.2 mile) marathon — the standard World Athletics marathon distance.
Ballarat Marathon 2027 race day
The next Ballarat Marathon is scheduled for Sunday, 9 May 2027 with a 7:00 am start. The certified course covers 42.195 km (26.2 miles) with 150 m of climbing on a rolling with gentle hills layout.
Ballarat Marathon course route
The Ballarat Marathon is a loop that starts and finishes at Lake Wendouree, passing the Eureka Centre, Ballarat's historic centre, and the botanical gardens. Rolling sections around the lake and through town reward controlled pacing, and community support is strongest at the lake hub and shared city-centre stretches.
Ballarat Marathon elevation profile
The Ballarat Marathon course is rolling with gentle hills over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). Runners cover 150 metres of climbing and 140 metres of descent, with a net climb of 10 metres from start to finish.
Entry requirements
The Ballarat Marathon uses open registration at ballaratmarathon.com.au with no ballot or qualifying time. Sign-up for the May race in regional Victoria typically opens early in the year. The modest field size means places usually remain available until closer to race day.
Ballarat Marathon course video
Race-day footage from the course to help you picture the route, crowds, and key landmarks on marathon day.
Tour the Run Ballarat course with Steve Moneghetti
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Ballarat Marathon elevation profile?
- The Ballarat Marathon has 150 metres of total climbing and 140 metres of descent over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). The course is rolling with gentle hills, with 10 metres of net climb from start to finish.
- How long is the Ballarat Marathon?
- The Ballarat Marathon is the standard marathon distance of 42.195 kilometres (26.2 miles), certified to World Athletics rules. Starts and finishes at Lake Wendouree.
- What time does the Ballarat Marathon start?
- The 2027 Ballarat Marathon starts at 7:00 am local time on Sunday, 9 May 2027. Arrive early for baggage drop and corral access — official race communications on www.ballaratmarathon.com.au/ confirm any last-minute schedule changes.
- Where does the Ballarat Marathon finish?
- The finish is at Lake Wendouree in the heart of Ballarat.
- Does the Ballarat Marathon pass the Eureka Stockade site?
- Yes. The Eureka Centre and stockade memorial are course highlights in the historic gold-rush city.
- When is the Ballarat Marathon?
- The race is held in May. Registration is at https://www.ballaratmarathon.com.au/.
- Is the Ballarat Marathon flat?
- The course has gentle rolling terrain around Lake Wendouree and through the city.
- What is Ballarat weather in May?
- May is cool autumn in Victoria, typically 6–14 °C (43–57 °F).
Last updated 18 July 2026. Edition dates and course details are reviewed regularly.
Nearby Marathons
Other races closest to Ballarat.
Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia· 536 km away
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The Canberra Marathon is Australia's capital city marathon, drawing about 2,000 finishers each April around Lake Burley Griffin. The course passes Parliament House, the Australian War Memorial, and the lake's scenic shores. April autumn weather in the bush capital and a flat lake loop make it the ACT's premier marathon.
Next race: Sunday, 4 April 2027
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia· 1,389 km away
Gold Coast Marathon
The Gold Coast Marathon draws approximately 6,500 finishers on a scenic coastal road in Gold Coast, Australia. The course starts and finishes at Southport Broadwater Parklands. Very flat and fast, with no significant hills.
Next race: Sunday, 4 July 2027
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The Brisbane Marathon draws approximately 5,500 finishers on an urban road in Brisbane, Australia. The course starts and finishes at South Bank Parklands. The route crosses the Story Bridge, passes the Kangaroo Point cliffs, and follows the Brisbane River. Mostly flat with a climb on the Story Bridge.
Next race: Sunday, 6 June 2027
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