The community is invited to share final views on a proposal to name the currently un-named laneway adjoining 118 Barkly Street in Ararat as Sparrows Lane, commemorating a remarkable local story from 1867.
The proposed name relates to the ceremonial release of 14 English house sparrows from the former Bull & Mouth Hotel balcony at this exact site, an event that drew great public interest and made Ararat one of the earliest locations of bird acclimatisation in Australia.
Historical accounts from the community describe how townspeople followed the birds through Ararat's streets, fascinated by their flight. The simple act became part of the town's folklore, linking Ararat to a nationally significant moment in environmental and cultural history.
If the naming proposal is successful, renowned Australian artist Anna-Wili Highfield will be commissioned by architect and original Ararat resident Adam Haddow to create a series of 14 bronze sparrows, each representing one of the original birds. The installation would include nine sparrows perched on the Barkly Street façade overlooking the laneway, while five more will be placed across key locations around town, forming a "sparrow trail" that encourages people to rediscover Ararat's history in an engaging way.
A heritage plaque would also be installed to interpret the story for residents and visitors, highlighting the site's ties to the 19th-century acclimatisation movement.
Ararat Rural City Council CEO Dr Tim Harrison said the proposal honoured the community's creative and historical spirit through storytelling and placemaking.
"Sparrows Lane brings to life a piece of Ararat's past that many people have never heard about. It's a wonderful reminder that our town has always been curious, connected, and proud of its place in history. This project combines art, heritage, and community in a way that adds real character to our civic heart," Dr Harrison said.
The proposed naming is now available for community feedback on www.engage.ararat.vic.gov.au until 10 January 2026 to help Council finalise its decision early in the new year.
