David Cook-Doulton always thought Ballarat had a world-class feel. He can see it in the wide streets, the grand buildings, the city’s confidence. The glint of gold still in the air. To a designer with a luxe aesthetic and a deep respect for quality, Ballarat seemed like the perfect place to realise a very particular dream. And so, with partner and marketing guru Martin Shew on board, Hotel Vera was born.