An Insider's View on Ballarat Style with Gorgi Coghlan
To celebrate the opening of our new Cable Ballarat boutique, we welcomed the local community for an afternoon of conversation, connection and style.
Hosted by Ballarat local, broadcaster, actress and farmer Gorgi Coghlan, the event brought together supporters of Australian wool and regional living. Dressed in our Evelyn Suit in Berry, Gorgi shared her connection to wool, life on the land and why natural fibres remain essential to her wardrobe.
Guests also heard from McGrath Cancer Care Nurse Sue, who spoke about the McGrath Foundation's work supporting people and families experiencing cancer. Through our partnership, $10 from every Heritage 365 knitwear piece sold from August to October will be donated to the McGrath Foundation.
Here, Gorgi shared her insider's guide to Ballarat, her approach to style and the local places she loves most…
What do you love most about living in the Ballarat region?
It's the sense of connection. Being surrounded by nature, feeling part of a genuine community and seeing familiar faces wherever you go. Whether it's a glass of red by the fire at the Buninyong Hotel or a catch-up around town, it always comes back to community and belonging.
What does "country style with a modern sensibility" mean to you?
I'm a country girl through and through, and that shapes how I dress. I gravitate towards timeless, beautifully made pieces that are versatile and practical. Fashion must feel good first, and if it looks great too, that's ideal.
No two days are the same. One day I'm on the farm in jeans and a knit, the next I'm hosting an event. I need a wardrobe that moves with me, which is why I'm drawn to Cable: classic pieces with a contemporary edge, made to last.
As someone with deep ties to the wool industry, why do you love wearing merino?
My father was a wool classer for more than 50 years, and my brother has worked as a wool buyer and exporter. I grew up appreciating the care and passion behind Australian merino wool.
For me, it's one of Australia's greatest natural fibres: warm, breathable, comfortable and versatile. From jumpers and suits to T-shirts and socks, wool is always our family's first choice.
What excites you most about welcoming Cable to Ballarat?
That I no longer have to travel to Melbourne to shop Cable!
We're incredibly lucky to have Cable in Ballarat. Its quality, family values and support of Australian wool make it a natural fit for our region and climate. I wear Cable knitwear everywhere, from work and travel to farm weekends and chilly mornings watching my daughter's soccer matches.
Gorgi's Ballarat Guide
Best coffee: Johnny Alloo
Favourite restaurant: Babae for a special occasion, or Mr Jones for great Thai
Favourite walk: Mount Buninyong
Best place to take visitors: The Buninyong Hotel
Hidden gem: In Knead Bakery on Blackberry Lane, Buninyong
Favourite season: Autumn
One thing every visitor should experience: Autumn around Lake Wendouree and the Ballarat Botanical Gardens
Current Cable favourite: Brushed Cashmere Wool Turtleneck in Parchment
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us to celebrate the opening of Cable Ballarat. We look forward to becoming part of the community and continuing to share our love of Australian wool, timeless style and meaningful connection.
