THE ROARS of a tank will be heard as one rolls into town for this year's Heritage Weekend.
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A 1952 Centurion Tank MK5-1 used during the Vietnam War will be on display to the public at the Military History Road Display on the weekend.
The 50 tonne tank which was used extensively at The Battle of Binh Ba in 1969 during the Vietnam War will make its way to Lydiard Street South to accompany a huge display of military vehicles and equipment used across the decade war.
The original crew from the 1st Armoured Regiment will also be on hand to delve into the history of the machine.
The tank's operator during the Vietnam War Leigh Jukes said the display was the perfect chance to understand more about the Vietnam War and ensure the truths of war were never forgotten.
"If people don't learn about the past, when we die who will pass on the stories then," he said.
"We had 24 tanks in Vietnam, this tank was there for the whole campaign and was one of few tanks who got out without being completely destroyed."
This year's theme of A Century of Service continues with Australia's military history a focus of many programs across the two days.
Fashion icon Charlotte Smith returns to Heritage Weekend with her war themed fashion parade. Held at the Ballarat Mechanic's Institute at 12 and 3pm over both days, Smith's parade will portray the influence of war on fashion through the decades.
The Pacific Bells and John Schumann will also perform live throughout the weekend, with wartime news reel screenings further delving back into the history books.
Additionally, Children have the chance to learn about Morse code and explore the story of the Anzacs in a specialised children's show.
"This year, the event will be taken to a new level," Mayor John Philips said.
"It is an opportunity to encourage a younger demographic to learn of the significant events and changes which happened as a result of the wartime periods."
On Friday V/Line trains will be swapped for steam trains as Steamrail Victoria prepares to transfer its trains to Ballarat for Heritage Weekend.
The steam trains will be transferred from Newport to Ballarat with the chance to travel on the train for the length of the journey.
The Ballarat bound train will be headed by two steam locomotives including the K153 and the Ballarat built Y112.
Steamrail Victoria marketing manager Cathie Skelton said it was a perfect chance to see the steam trains in action and admire their fascinating features.
"It takes many people back to their childhood," she said.
"It's a nostalgia thing.
"The 125-year-old Y112 was built in Ballarat and as far as we know it's the oldest operating locomotive in Australia."
The trains are due to arrive in Ballarat around 7pm and will be operating shuttles throughout the weekend.
For more information about the steam train transfer visit www.steamrail.com.au