Friction Bouldering

Bouldering in Ballarat

Friction Bouldering is a locally owned indoor bouldering gym on Laidlaw Drive in Delacombe, on the western edge of Ballarat. It opened in February 2022 and has around 250 m² of bouldering walls over padded matting, so there are no ropes or harnesses involved. Alongside the main walls there is a steep 40° wall, a cave section, a Kilter Board and a free-weights area for strength work.

Visiting

It is a walk-in gym: there is no need to book a session and no time limit once you are in. Everyone fills in a waiver first, and under-18s need a parent or guardian to sign it. Climbers must be at least 6, and children need active adult supervision throughout. Climbing shoes are required and can be hired at the desk. There is parking on site and in the street.

Learning and community

• Beginner class: a one-hour introduction to bouldering on Sunday mornings, with entry and shoe and chalk hire included.
• Coaching: one-to-one sessions of an hour on technique, strength training or a particular project, arranged with the gym.
• Competitions and socials: a seven-week Winter Social Comp that ends with a finals night, plus themed evenings such as a Halloween party.
• School holidays: the gym has set a kids' wall of easier climbs during past holidays.

Friction is also a drop-off point for Scotty Dog climbing shoe resoles, and hosts unhosted birthday parties at weekends.