The Ballarat Soup Bus, a project of the Ontrack Foundation Inc., continues to be a beacon of compassion in the community, delivering after-dark meal services to the city’s homeless and vulnerable. Operated by an experienced, locally-based not-for-profit charitable foundation, the Soup Bus has long been supported by the generosity and cooperation of the Ballarat community.
Now, in an exciting development, the Ontrack Foundation is nearing completion of a second Soup Bus, designed to extend support to the under-served communities in the southern parts of Ballarat. This new initiative involves co-funding the installation of a commercial kitchen in the second vehicle, further enhancing the organisation’s capacity to provide practical, on-the-ground help where it’s needed most.
Balwyn Rotary has proudly contributed $50,000 to support the fit-out of this second Soup Bus. This significant funding demonstrates Balwyn’s ongoing commitment to addressing homelessness and supporting regional communities. Rotary Club of Ballarat has also played a key role, acting as a major source of volunteers for the Soup Bus’s nightly operations. Both clubs’ involvement reflects the spirit of Rotary—engaged, responsive, and deeply connected to community needs.
The transformation of the second bus is almost complete, with approximately 90% of the internal fit-out finished. Final touches are expected to be wrapped up by the end of June. The exterior painting and signage have already been completed, giving the bus a fresh, professional appearance that proudly reflects its mission.
This project is more than a mobile kitchen—it’s a symbol of hope, dignity, and community care. And with the second Soup Bus soon ready to roll, even more lives in Ballarat will be reached with a warm meal and a sense of belonging.