Donations

 DONATE TO THE BMI ANNUAL APPEAL

Thank you for considering a tax-deductible donation to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute (BMI) 2026 Appeal.

For more than 166 years, the BMI has been part of Ballarat’s story. Established in 1859, it continues the proud tradition of Mechanics’ Institutes — organisations created to provide education, knowledge and community connection for everyone.

 If you are a returning donor, we sincerely thank you for your ongoing support. Your contribution helps ensure that the BMI remains a community-owned cultural institution, providing generations of Ballarat residents with a sense of belonging, a connection to our shared history, and a place to learn, meet and engage with ideas.

If you are a new supporter, we welcome you to an organisation that has served Ballarat independently for over a century and a half. The BMI is a secular, non-political and community-driven institution, sustained by its members, volunteers and supporters, and operating without recurrent government funding.

To find out more go to the Give Now button below and or view our video.

Paula Nicholson, President 

Paula Nicholson, Board Chair

 DONATE any time to the BMI

The BMI holds deductible gift recipient status with the ACNC – Ballarat Mechanics Institute Library and Building Development and Restoration Fund, ABN 53 004 034 575.

You may do this on-line or by direct credit.  Details are:

Ballaarat Mechanics Institute  BSB – 083-526,  Account – 515667832.  

Donations will be accepted at any time of the year.  

The BMI remains eternally grateful for your support as you continue to underpin the community ownership of the BMI  providing so many with a sense of belonging, a sense of history, a place to meet and learn and an opportunity to contribute and be a part one of Ballarat’s most important cultural venues.  

Trivia Night Fundraiser

26 August Doors open 6.45pm | Tickets also available at the door

$25 per person | $20 BMI members

Minerva's Secrets Night Tours

Tue 19 May with special visit to Lantern Vaults

Tour 1 at 7pm – Tour 2 at 9pm. 

BMI Fundraising Events book donation promotional image

Calling for Pre-loved books

These donation assist in our Library Fundraising Activities

We can take delivery during regular Library operating hours. See website footer.

 Coming in November

Stella Day Out, Ballarat, Rachael Johns & Margaret Hickey

Spring Season, History Talks:

Ballarat's Henry Lawson - The Dragon's Den - Gold! Gold! Gold!

Wed 3, 17 & 24 September, 5.30pm

Christmas Holiday Closures | Library

Monday 23 December – Sunday 5 January

Vintage Fashion Parade

Bubbly on arrival featuring quality items from our Vintage Shop

 Pre-Sale $60 from 6 Aug to 9 Aug - $65 thereafter

The Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute 2026 Calendar

Featuring illustrations from our Heritage Book Collection $40

Tax Deductible 

Your gift will be tax-deductible this financial year if you make it before June 30.

We need
your help.

2024 End of Financial Year Appeal 

Or alternatively go to our Donations web page.

Our Challenge

Like many organisations the BMI faces significant funding challenges. 

We thank you for your support.