Bigger hearts. Stronger community.
We support people living with dementia, their carers and families across Ballarat — through community programs, creative activities, education and local action.
An accredited Dementia Australia alliance — working since 2016 to improve the quality of life of people living with dementia, their family, friends and carers in the greater Ballarat area.
How can we help today?
Choose what brings you here. Each path leads somewhere useful.
I need support
For myself or someone I love.
Find helpJoin a program
Carers Catch Up, Choir, Art-Escape, more.
See programsVolunteer
Give time, skills or warmth.
Get involvedShop art
Original artwork from Art-Escape. Coming soon.
Learn moreDonate
Help fund local programs and community work.
Give nowPrograms that connect, support and include
Our work happens week in, week out — in community halls, parks, on stage, and around tables in Ballarat and Creswick.
Carers Catch Up
A regular space for people caring for someone living with dementia. Meets the third Monday of each month.
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Bigger Hearts Choir
Weekly singing led by musician Geoff Hassall. Connection, joy and the powerful link between music and memory.
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Art-Escape
A weekly art program for people living with dementia. A specially designed and supportive space for socialisation, creativity and friendship.
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Sensory Trail
Australia's first dementia-friendly forest and sensory trail, at Woowookarung Regional Park. Open to everyone.
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Memory Walk & Jog
Our annual community walk in Ballarat, in partnership with Dementia Australia. A day of togetherness and remembrance.
Learn moreSee all programs
Explore the full set of programs and activities Bigger Hearts runs across Ballarat and Creswick.
Visit pageBigger hearts begin with bigger hearts
"We were inspired to share with the community about the real challenges of living with dementia and at the same time try to find the positive in each situation."
— Edie Mayhew
Bigger Hearts began in 2016, inspired by Edie Mayhew and Anne Tudor. They described their response to living with Edie's younger-onset dementia as having made their hearts bigger.
What started as their story became a movement — a Ballarat community committed to making life better for everyone affected by dementia. Edie's vision continues to guide our work.
Read our full storyCelebrating a decade of community
2026 marks ten years since Bigger Hearts began. Join us at one of our anniversary events across Ballarat and Creswick.
A kinder, more connected Ballarat starts with you
Your support keeps Carers Catch Up running, the choir singing, the Sensory Trail open, and Art-Escape welcoming new people every week.