What is happening to Sovereign Hill?
I realise that it is now 40 years old, and despite this the buildings etc. are in very good order, but what of the atmosphere?
Where is the feeling that one is back in time?
Where is the fun and the laughter that once existed? A very tired Lola Montez presented itself with as much enthusiasm as the actors could conjure up due to very few people there to see it.
My last visit consisted of electric saws, nail guns, electric drills etc.
To top it off, a ute was then driven up the main street 1850-1860s? I don't think so.
After having to pay an exorbitant amount to enter, I was bitterly disappointed to see this.
And what of the very modern kiosk which proudly stands out amongst it all? Why was such a thing built in such a way? I know that there are now health regulations in place, but that is only for the preparation and cooking of food.
The outside of the building could have been designed to fit in with the museum. What a modern eyesore!
Why not continue with the same theme as the New York Bakery eatery? I remember, too, the strictness of the costumed staff, which now seems to be lacking. A different "era" seems to be creeping in.
I remember so much more from my other visits. It was so good to see that the Friends of Sovereign Hill still exist, as they sit in parlours and houses, some cooking, knitting, or just having morning tea, making one feel very much part of the period.
I'm also told that the derelict woman who sits out on the veranda with her bottle of whatever is also a volunteer.
I know it is not the fault of the paid staff, that they can't just "sit around", but can't they be allowed to do more in the way of fun activities in the main street or in the theatre, which is very underused?
Exorbitant prices will also keep many families out, especially families in Ballarat.
I'm sure that they would wish to visit a little more regularly but with the prices the way they are, who can afford more than one visit in a decade?
Having to pay over $200 for entry and food, I know that I won't be back for a long time.
I know there are memberships available but they are still a little pricey.
Please don't lose what is so very important to Ballarat. Don't create another era. In the 10 years of gold mining in Ballarat which Sovereign Hill portrays, time did not change.
It is part of our past history and one cannot change history.
It will remain the same and so should Sovereign Hill.
DIANE HUDSON
Ballarat