The Shire Hall in Roman Revival style from 1871 has an imposing facade with its robust colonnade capped by a strong pediment. The hall is situated on the municipal reserve along Barkly street. Also visible in the panorama are the Shire Hall Hotel and the former State Savings Bank. For excellent fish and chips or gyros try the Take Away Fish on Barkly nearby.

Ararat Shire Hall - Ararat visitor guide showing a virtual tour of 'Ararat Shire Hall' linked to an interactive map with local and travel information. 360° panoramas from Victoria.

Founded by Chinese settlers who chanced upon gold and started a major gold rush, Ararat rapidly grew in the 1850s and 60s as a boom town. When gold was depleted a few decades later, tens of thousands moved on to go prospecting elsewhere, meanwhile pastors and farmers cultivated the land to forge a sustainable community.

The Shire Hall and the Town Hall were built at the height of the Gold Rush boom as meeting places for the townsfolk. As municipal buildings, they were the focus of community activities. Now they remain as historic landmarks with infrequent use for functions outside their regular official use. A grand reminder of the importance and wealth of bygone days.