This year, dessert not only trumped but THUMPED dinner in Ballarat’s Best Pie 2025 competition. In fact, it was such a monumental clean sweep, that sweet pies took out First, Second AND Third place prize.

Raspberry and Chocolate, a winning combination

Mrs Browne Bakes’ raspberry goldfields cookie pie, found at Naomi & i, enjoyed top honours outshining 36 other pies, both savoury and sweet, from local Ballarat venues.

The annual pie competition in its third year was held on Saturday 2 August at Itinerant Spirits and hosted by MasterChef Australia semi-finalist and Good Chef Bad Chef co-host Tim Bone.

Joining Tim on the judging panel, food writer Richard Cornish, Melbourne restaurant critic Kara Monssen, acclaimed chef Alejandro Saravia and City of Ballarat Deputy Mayor Cr Ben Taylor.

To find Ballarat’s award-winning pie makers visit:

• Grand Prize (and Best Sweet Pie): Raspberry goldfields cookie pie by Mrs Browne Bakes at Naomi & i
• 2nd Place: Peach and Portuguese custard pie at Lydiard General
• 3rd Place: Apple sty pie at Mondegreen Café
• Best Savoury Pie: Lechon paksiw pie at Stables Café & Bar
• Best Bakery Pie: Beef rendang pie at Turret Bakehouse
• Most Unexpected Pie: Lechon paksiw pie at Stables Café & Bar
• Pie with Purpose: Feral Pie at The Shared Table

Where to Camp and Stay Near Ballarat

If you’re looking to sample sensational pies and more in the Goldfields region why not unhitch the caravan or pitch a tent at these awesome tourist parks below.

BIG4 Ballarat Windmill Holiday Park

This park offers extensive family-friendly facilities, including a heated indoor pool and an adventure playground.

NRMA Ballarat Holiday Park
Close to Sovereign Hill, this park has ensuite sites, family cabins, a heated pool, jumping pillow and excellent facilities.

Eureka Stockade Holiday Park

Set in a quiet, leafy location, this park is just a short walk from the historic Eureka Centre and its surrounding parklands.

• Need more touring advice in and around Ballarat? Why not dip into the What’s Up Downunder archives and catch this awesome episode from Season 8.