The month is shaping up as a boom time for Ballarat as the city's accommodation providers prepare to cash-in on three major tourism events.

The Queen's Baton Relay (March 8), the Begonia Festival (March 9-13) and the Commonwealth Games (March 15-26) are all set to draw thousands of visitors to the city.

Accommodation is already in short supply with many motels close to full despite four months to go.

Ballarat's Mid City Motel, which has 71 rooms, said it was heavily booked between March 11 and March 31 with only a few rooms to spare.

Director Kay Hurley said the hotel is also set to play host to 190 members of an Indian cultural delegation and the New Zealand basketball team.

"It's certainly looking very promising that we're taking so many bookings that far in advance," she said.

Stephen Wills, general manager of Doherty Ballarat Lodge in Main Rd, said bookings in March were "very strong".

"We're fielding enquiries from around the world, especially in relation to the Commonwealth Games," Mr Wills said.

"We still have some rooms left but we're holding them at premium rates because we're expecting to receive a lot of confirmed business nearing the time.

"But with four months to go, it's looking very busy."

Meanwhile, Peter Canny, from the Sovereign Park Motor Inn in Main Rd, said March was shaping up as one of its busiest months of the year.

"March is traditionally a strong month for us and it's already looking pretty solid for 2006," Mr Canny said.

"It's always a good month for the conference market, without taking into account the Begonia Festival and the Commonwealth Games next year."

George Sossi, City of Ballarat's Manager City Attractions, said the city was looking to exploit the lucrative South Australian and Melbourne markets.

"We know we can't compete with Melbourne but we're looking to promote Ballarat as an attractive alternative just an hour away," Mr Sossi said.

"That's a key selling feature for us, especially to tourists from South Australia who have to travel through the city."