The Allan Labor Government is backing a major boost to Ballarat’s events calendar, with the global professional wrestling convention Starrcast Downunder, headed for the Goldfields region from 10-14 April 2024.

Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos today announced Ballarat will host the first Starrcast pro wrestling event staged outside the United States, attracting fans from across the state, Australia and overseas to regional Victoria.

Held over five days, Starrcast will feature fan events, signing sessions, stage shows, and interactive panels across Ballarat Mining Exchange and Civic Hall alongside wrestling events at Selkirk Basketball Stadium – set to delight thousands of local and visiting fans.

The event has been made possible by the Regional Events Fund via Visit Victoria.

Legendary WWE Hall of Fame wrestler, Bret “The Hitman” Hart, and six-time WWE Women’s Champion Mickie James have signed on to lead the cadre of international wrestling stars to take part in the action.

Joining Hart and James at Starrcast Downunder will be a handful of soon-to-be-announced legends, alongside 30 Australian and international wrestlers who will put on three action-packed nights of wrestling throughout the event.

This will include an international wrestling show, an Australian showcase and Empowerr, the groundbreaking all-female wrestling show created by Mickie James in 2021.

The wrestling events will be streamed internationally from Selkirk Basketball Stadium, showcasing Ballarat to wrestling fans around the world.

It marks the most recent addition to Ballarat’s packed 2024 calendar of events, alongside the Road National Championships in January, two Western Bulldogs AFL matches at Mars Stadium, and the recently announced White Night Ballarat, which will take over the city in June.

For more information about the event, including future updates and tickets, visit oceaniaprowrestling.com.

Quote attributable to Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos

“We’re proud to support Starrcast Downunder – not just for the boost it will deliver to the region’s tourism sector, but because it joins the packed calendar of events bringing Ballarat to life for everybody to enjoy.”

Quote attributable to Member for Wendouree Juliana Addison

“This international exclusive event will bring pro wrestling fans up close to their favourite legends right here in Ballarat, adding to our already jam-packed events calendar.”

Quote attributable to Member for Eureka Michaela Settle

“Starrcast Downunder will attract pro wrestling fans from across Victoria – and further afield – to Ballarat for an incredible five days of action, supporting local hospitality, hotels and keeping the economy booming.”

Quote attributable to Member for Ripon Martha Haylett

“From stage shows, interactive panels and fan events, there will be something for everyone to enjoy at Starrcast Downunder. It’s going to be fantastic to see Ballarat’s local buildings and stadiums come alive with fans and wrestling legends from near and far.”