Ivan and Margaret Bolt faced a huge damage bill after the hole opened on July 3.

The pensioners, who would have struggled to afford the repairs, are waiting to see how much insurance will cover.

In the meantime, more than 15 offers of help have flooded in from far and wide.

This includes a woman from Bright, who has offered about $6000.

She will receive a free weekend's accommodation and entry to some of Ballarat's attractions for her generosity.

Several groups are also planning a Backyard Blitz day to get the backyard looking its best again.

Mrs Bolt said she was very grateful for the community's support.

"We are very happy with the help," she said.

"We didn't know what to expect - we just thought whatever comes our way we'll be happy with."

The hole had to be filled with concrete immediately, as it had stretched to within 50cm of the house.

It was 5m wide and 4m deep when it was filled three days after it collapsed.

It had already swallowed the fish pond and nearly the pet dog Barney.

The total damage bill has reached about $12,000, without taking into account the shed which had to be demolished.

Mrs Bolt said the blitz would spruce up the area where the hole was filled.

Caledonian ward councillor Stephen Jones has been helping the Bolts co-ordinate the support effort.

"We're going to see how much is covered by insurance before we do anything," he said.

"It's been a very humbling experience for Mr Bolt that's for sure."