20 Square Blocks

Why do we collect things? Some use it to relax, others for the thrill of the hunt. Then there are those that use it as a way to keep the past alive.

Comedy Ballarat has been going for just a few years and is enjoying the spoils of smart, honest and often gut-busting local comedy. This month we spoke with local comedian Crystal Rae. Tassie bred, she worked her way from Hobart Radio before moving to the mainland and finding her way into the world of stand-up. In this episode we also spoke with other local comedians such as Jamie Josephs, Josh Arthur and Leasa Kaitoa moments before they took the step from the greenroom to the stage.

In 1996, following the closure of many psychiatric hospitals around the country, Ballarat’s own asylum, the Lakeside Mental Hospital closed its doors. Ballarat’s mental asylum was the home to many patients during this time but also the staff.

Through the centre of Ballarat flows the Yarrowee. Not many people know it’s there because it harbours many a disguise such as a trickling stream, a junction, and a dangerous storm water drain travelling through underground tunnels and popping out the other-side like nothing happened.