2023 CORVETTE NATIONALS
The Nationals will be held in and around Ballarat, Victoria’s third largest city. During the 1800s, Ballarat was the epicentre of Australia’s first gold rush, spawning the Eureka stockade as well as a rich history, culture, and well-preserved colonial-era heritage. That’s why we’re calling this event the 2023 Gold Rush Corvette Nationals – we’ll also take the opportunity to profile and feature the new Corvette C8.
Corvettes of Melbourne, Vic Vettes and Surfcoast Corvettes will host the first Corvette Nationals since Queensland in 2019, due to the enduring Covid 19 pandemic. It is important that we recognise and thank the South Australian and Canberra Clubs for their ongoing efforts attempting to hold the Nationals in the face of insurmountable odds.
Taking place in historic Ballarat, the 2023 Gold Rush Corvette Nationals will run from Friday 24th – Monday 27th March 2023. This event has been moved away from Easter to avoid congestion and make our event more affordable for attendees.
Mercure Ballarat Hotel and Convention Centre will transform into the Corvette HQ during the event. The good news is we’ve been able to negotiate a fantastic rate for these Nationals so we advise you to get your bookings in early – otherwise, overflow accommodation will be available at a nearby hotel.
Update 27-Jul-2022: Mercure now fully booked, overflow hotels include:
Best Western Plus (next to the Mercure)
Book on (03) 5329 0200 Advise them you are booking for the Corvette National Convention.
Sovereign Views Apartment (600 metres from the Mercure)
There is undercover parking available and full kitchen facilities
Book on 0490 835 165
Sovereign Hill Hotel, Magpie St Ballarat.
(1.3km drive from the Mercure) Separate to but part of the Sovereign Hill precinct
Book on (03) 5337 1199
Open car parking which has security cameras and is patrolled.
There are other Motels which can be viewed online that are not too far from the Mercure.
The Program
Friday 24 March 2023
On Friday, book into the event, receive your gift bag, and mingle at the traditional Meet and Greet to follow that night.
The National Presidents’ meeting will take place at 4pm.
Saturday 25 March 2023
A Show ‘n’ Shine will be held at scenic Lake Wendouree.
On Saturday night, we’ll venture over to Sovereign Hill for a unique gold rush experience and to take a closer look into history of the era. Substantial finger food will be provided and drinks will be available to purchase from the bar.
Sunday 26 March 2023
On Sunday, we’ll take a picturesque cruise through the local gold country and surrounding country towns, enjoying lunch together and some Show ‘n’ Shine awards presentations before returning to the Mercure Hotel.
Upon arrival back at the hotel, there will be time to relax and have a drink with old and new friends.
The gold-themed gala dinner will be held on Sunday night at the Mercure Hotel. There will be plenty of music, so glam up in your finest attire, dress to impress, and wear your best gold dancing shoes. Here, there will be additional presentations as well as auctions and raffles.
Monday 27 March 2023
Time to pack your Corvettes, say farewell, and make the safe journey home.