BMI – President Paula Nicholson
Paula is currently away. Our Executive Manager, Nev Ivey has provided the following report…
Executive Manager Update – September Newsletter – Nev Ivey
BMI has enjoyed another busy and productive month, with strong activity throughout the building and continued progress on a number of exciting initiatives.
During July an estimated 1,200–1,250 people attended activities across BMI, highlighting the wonderful diversity of ways our historic building is being used. Theatre, comedy, author talks, community groups, corporate events, meetings and regular venue hirers have all contributed to another vibrant month at the Institute.
Schools Program
BMI Schools Program
Our new BMI Schools Program is also moving closer to its formal launch. Following successful trial activity, the program is being developed to provide students with an engaging combination of customised BMI tours and learning experiences exploring local history, heritage, civics, community and design.
The program will help introduce a new generation of young people to BMI and its remarkable history while strengthening our relationships with schools across the region.
Library
From the Library
The Library continues to be an important and active part of BMI, with 575 members recorded at the end of July and 320 books borrowed during the month.
Our popular Author Talk program also continues, with an exciting line-up of writers scheduled over the coming months, including Lauren Williams, Penny Tangey, Pam Swanborough, Sally Mackinnon, Michael Robotham and Monica McInerney.
Twilight Talks
BMI Patron – Phil Roberts
Phil has been busy putting together Season 2 of this popular series of talks. We would love to see you support the diverse program.
Our Building
Looking After Our Building
Recent heavy rainfall resulted in significant water entering areas of the BMI basement. The affected areas were immediately taken out of use and investigations are underway with the relevant specialists and the City of Ballarat.
As custodians of this important heritage building, we are treating the matter as a priority and will continue working to identify and address the underlying causes.
Fundraising Events
We hope you can support our upcoming fundraising events. These events help nurture our BMI Member Community and our Volunteer Program, requiring many volunteer hours planning and delivering these events.
Saturday & Sunday 5 & 6 September
10am – 2pm
Royal Australian Navy 125th Anniversary Concert is a fundraiser for Ballarat RSL & BMI.
Looking Ahead
Looking Ahead
There is plenty happening at BMI. Over the coming month, our team will continue progressing the Schools Program, Stage Ready and opportunities to improve our production infrastructure, while delivering the diverse range of events, programs and community activities that bring BMI to life.
It is wonderful to see so many people coming through our doors and using BMI in so many different ways. We look forward to another busy month ahead.
Nev Ivey, Executive Manager
Our Vision
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.
