This company was similar cost to Harvey Norman and Good Guys. The difference was the service. Smooth and easy set up of installation date. Chris and Dave arrived on the dot, were friendly and polite, installed the unit with a minimum of fuss and even managed to save some plants in the garden that I'd thought would have to go to fit the outdoor unit. Then they cleaned up beautifully. Great job.

This restaurant seems to have reopened with new chefs. Five of us at a dinner each had a different main. All were delicious, well presented, quality meals, much better than you would get for the same price at some of Ballarat's pubs, which are really just pubs with overpriced pub food. This is a fine restaurant. We only went for dinner in the restaurant and can't vouch for the accommodation, but would highly recommend the food.

Approximate cost: $28

I have rated this place highly in the past, but we have just had a terrible meal from there. The cook must have changed, or the owner. Four of us ordered takeaway and no one could finish their meal. The curries were like flour paste with colouring and bits of gristle in them. I'm so disappointed.

I've been to bands and readings and get-togethers in the bar here. It's a great atmosphere, relaxed, no pressure, no drunken thugs. Some great music and the wines are good and not too expensive (but not cheap).
But recently (2010) went to an event where they'd provided finger food. It was revolting and cheap and stale. Would have done better heating up some fish fingers.

The shop assistants here are extraordinarily rude. They are abrupt when they serve you (as if they are doing you a favour), their system of arranging books is made to suit them and is incomprehensible if you are looking for a book, and worst of all, I've been at the counter twice when they've been making rude comments about customers! I was shocked. Book City has the best range of books in Ballarat, but after hearing one staff member complaining to another (at the counter!) about how a customer smelled I decided never to return. I'd rather buy online.

Fast, friendly, cheap and tasted great. No MSG, no artificial colours. Brilliant homemade chicken dim sims. It also has claypot dinners, which we're going to try next. Apparently they're delicious.

Approximate cost: $9

When I pay this sort of price I expect a decent meal. My hamburger had cold, unmelted cheese and the salad on the side was gritty and badly washed. My husband's meal took ages to come and was cold by the time it did. Then, to top it off, the coffee was weak and tepid. The staff really need some training.

My husband is a complete snob about Indian food and wouldn't go anywhere in Ballarat after our first horrible experience (see Deeva). A friend had a celebration at the Curry House and we went reluctantly, then surprise! The fussy one rated it 5 stars. Me too. Service was great, food even better. T0p quality taste, not oily, good size. And great value.

Approximate cost: $12-15

Relaxed but funky. Drinks are good quality for the price. Wish they had pizza on Sundays but otherwise, great. Friendly bar staff and no pressure to buy more drinks or food, but always there when you need to.

This is a briliant walk among the treetops in the Otway Rainforest off the Great Ocean Road in Victoria. It's very high in the trees and beautifully maintained. You can look out at the crowns of mountain ashes, and down at tree ferns on the forest floor. Absolutely stunning.

Approximate cost: $20