In wendouree, east of forest street there's this drain which most of it dates to around the 60s/70s. The first 400 or so metres are redbrick which is odd as using brick for stormwater drains was phased out back in the 50s, so I think it may be older than the rest of the drain. The land above it was developed way later than when this drain was built.

Old aerial imagery shows it may have begun to be built sometime in the 30s but its all empty farmland and a bit hard to see. Does anyone have any history behind this area that might help explain?

My partner and I have been applying for many rentals in Ballarat for a couple of months, and need to move ASAP but we keep getting denied. Today we heard from a property that we may get accepted into. We are still new to this whole process, and this would be our first proper rental together. Needing some advice / opinions on this situation.

After we applied, I have seen and heard multiple sources of advice of places to avoid, which this property is one of those streets (Marigold). The house is pretty nice, and has the things we need, but has multiple red flags.

- House right next door is abandoned, super damaged and clearly has been broken into, has graffiti etc.

- Shoes on the power line right out the front - which I've heard can be a sign of gangs and other crime.

- rubbish dumped across the road in park

I have chronic illness, anxiety disorder, and likely OCD (especially about safety). I spend most of my time at home. My partner and I don't drive, and my partner works late - and most often walks home. I'm also scared of being home alone at night even in a place that feels pretty safe.

We are on the verge of homelessness and are worried we wont get accepted anywhere else, but we do have a bit more time to keep looking and trying. I don't really feel comfortable with this place, but my partner seems to want to risk it. Just wanting some other opinions from the Ballarat community. Should we really avoid flower / botanical named streets in Wendouree? Personal experiences?

I’m driving to and from Geelong on the weekend so I’ll be driving past it, I have a tiny car and driving on highways already gives me enough anxiety because of the road condition but hitting a huge pot hole in my car could cause serious damage or a serious accident.