The BMI certainly had a busy and productive 2025/2026 financial year, filled with so much generosity of spirit, innovative thinking, positive action and energy that would be the envy of any For Profit business. Of course there have been challenges, but as has been the case for 166 years, these challenges have been seen as opportunities and we are stronger than ever, as we build on the ambition and tenacity of those early civic leaders striving to deliver knowledge through the establishment of the BMI and therefore hope for a stronger, united and more resilient community. In these uncertain times, this aim seems to remain true, relevant and important.
As we head into April the BMI Board and Management are busily preparing our budget and business plan for the next financial year – 1st May 2026 – 30th April 2027. As the end of our financial year approaches, we invite you to help continue the remarkable story that is the BMI. Your tax-deductible donation will support the preservation of our heritage collections, the maintenance of our historic building, and the cultural programs that bring new generations through our doors. With your support, the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute can continue to be what it has always been: a place where knowledge, culture and community come together.
Speaking of advocacy, several BMI Members, staff and volunteers attended a recent meeting of the Ballarat Historical Society where our Curator Ellen Becker had been invited to speak. The excellent presentation was very well received. Delivering the BMI message to other community groups is not new to us, but continues to be very effective in gaining members and interest, we hope to expand this type of activity via our volunteers and staff in the coming months.
Much of our work going forward will focus on partnerships and collaborations to leverage our efforts as mentioned by our Executive Manager Neville Ivey, in his piece below. Liam Mudge our Venue Manager is getting to work on the first stages of the innovative “Stage Ready” – by securing partnering organisations who will participate in and benefit from practical experience in lighting, sound, stage-craft and venue operations. In this way the BMI will be central to the training and support of a new generate of theatre and events technicians. This project will be delivered thanks to the Australian Government’s Regional Arts Fund. We look forward to keeping you up to date with this initiative.
We have recently hosted some very big and busy events in the Minerva Room including the gala night for Ballarat Lyric Theatre and the award night for Ballarat’s Great Women now under the auspice of The Ballarat Foundation – a special vote of thanks from the Board to the events staff as they continue to work hard to showcase the BMI and consistently provide a BMI welcome to new users.
Thanks to Mark Potter for once again compiling the very long list of offerings at the BMI, forming your monthly newsletter. We sincerely hope you enjoy the information and the knowledge that your support as Members and visitors to the BMI underpins our ability to continue to offer the variety in programming and the quality services that you have come to expect from your BMI!
Paula Nicholson, President
It has been another active month at the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute, with a great mix of events, meetings and planning taking place behind the scenes. If you haven’t already, I encourage you to take a look at the “What’s On” page to see the range of talks, activities and events happening at the Institute this month.
Alongside our regular programs, we’ve also been working on a number of initiatives to support BMI’s future. During March we submitted a Strategic Partnerships application to the City of Ballarat as well as a Commonwealth Volunteer Grant application, both aimed at strengthening the Institute and supporting the wonderful work of our volunteers.
I’ve also had the opportunity to meet with a range of community partners and supporters, including Council staff, local organisations and potential corporate members, as we continue to explore new collaborations and opportunities for BMI.
At the same time, we’re continuing to improve our internal systems, with updated OH&S and Code of Conduct policies circulated to staff and volunteers for feedback.
There are also some exciting ideas in development, including potential heritage projects, partnerships with the Ballarat RSL, and a proposal to bring specialist disaster preparedness training for museums and collecting organisations to Ballarat.
As always, thank you to our members, volunteers and supporters for your continued interest in BMI.
Nev Ivey, Executive Manager.
To promote an inclusive and diverse community. This is achieved through sharing knowledge, providing a unique place to engage with history, and a vibrant hub for community events.
