Thursday – Arrival and Check-In

Pilgrims arrive in Ballarat and check in at the Christus Rex registration desk, located at St Patrick’s Cathedral Hall. Upon arrival, you’ll receive your pilgrim ID, luggage tags, and any pre-purchased items.

Accommodation for the night is provided in halls near the Cathedral, with separate arrangements for male and female pilgrims and families. Please bring your own sleeping gear, including a sleeping bag rated for cold conditions. Limited indoor space means compact bedding is encouraged. Dinner is not provided on Thursday night—pilgrims are encouraged to enjoy one of Ballarat’s local restaurants.

Friday – The Pilgrimage Begins

Pilgrims rise early for morning Mass and breakfast before the official pilgrimage departure from the front steps of St Patrick’s Cathedral. Following a traditional blessing, pilgrims begin their journey through the streets of Ballarat, the surrounding countryside, and scenic forest tracks.

The first day covers approximately 35km, with stops for morning tea, lunch by St George’s Lake, and afternoon tea at the historic Avenue of Honour in Kingson. Each stop features short spiritual reflections or sermons. The day ends in Smeaton, where pilgrims enjoy a hearty vegetarian dinner and rest overnight—either camping in a nearby field or sleeping in a local hall, depending on age and gender.

Saturday – Solemn Mass and Continued Journey

Day two includes a full schedule of walking, prayer, music, and fellowship. Pilgrims begin with an early breakfast and proceed toward Campbelltown, where a Solemn High Mass is celebrated outdoors beneath a pine grove. A traditional paella lunch follows.

After lunch, the group continues on to Newstead via Sandon Cemetery, where prayers are offered for deceased pilgrims and loved ones. Saturday concludes with a communal barbecue dinner and overnight accommodation in local halls and campgrounds. Facilities for showers are available.

Sunday – Arrival and Christ the King Mass

After breakfast, pilgrims are transported by coach to the outskirts of Maldon to begin the final walking stages of the pilgrimage. The morning includes music preparation and a short walk to Lockwood South for morning tea and hymn practice.

The longest walk of the weekend follows—an 11km stretch to Kangaroo Flat, where lunch is provided. The final leg is a 4km walk into Bendigo’s Sacred Heart Cathedral for the climactic Mass of Christ the King.

Upon arrival, pilgrims are blessed on the Cathedral steps before processing inside for the final liturgy. Following Mass, participants gather for a group photo and can collect their luggage. Pilgrims are warmly invited to join an informal dinner at a local venue to celebrate the conclusion of the pilgrimage.

Plan Your Journey

This Catholic pilgrimage in Australia requires physical endurance, spiritual openness, and a willingness to embrace the pilgrim spirit. For details on preparation, what to pack, and registration, visit our Pilgrim’s Portal.