Board and Staff

BMI Board Members

The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute is a not for profit organisation, with a Board comprising of community members, usually for a period of three years, with the option of applying for reappointment. A position on the Board is voluntary, with members receiving no remuneration. The Board is responsible for governance and, within its financial limitations, has developed a strategic direction for the management of the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute.

Institute Patrons

The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute nominates and invites people within the community to become a patron of the organisation. These patrons change regularly, and include the ‘Mayor-of-the-day’ and any other notable people who have contributed to the Institute or wider community.

Governance

BOARD MEMBERS
President Paula Nicholson
Vice President Jane Valpied
Secretary Cathy Drake
Edward Petrie Treasurer
Board Member Malcolm Roberts
Board Member Jennifer Hudson
Board Member Charlotte King
Organisation Staff
Executive Manager Currently BMI Chair
Venue Operations Manager Liam Mudge
Venue Booking Coordinator Leah Pappaluca
Library Services Rosemary McInerney
Cultural Development & Services Manager Mark Potter
Arts & Events Officer Katrina Hill
Heritage Collection Curator Ellen Becker
Finance Officer Carry Fungsi
Volunteering Coordinator Marilyn Furness (volunteer)
Systems Volunteer Travis Charlton (volunteer)

BMI News

with Kylie Ladd

 Wed 25 June at 6pm

Connections to War from a Ballarat Perspective

Wed 2-30 April, 5.30pm

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.
The Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute 2025 Calendar

Featuring the BMI Image Collection | Now $20

Devonshire Tea & Fashion Parade

Bubbly on arrival & Featuring quality items from our Vintage Shop | $60

Christmas Holiday Closures | Library

Monday 23 December – Sunday 5 January

Dame Nellie Melba Birthday Celebration

  Performance – 18 May.

Australian Heritage Festival Events at the BMI

18 April to 18 May

Ballarat Heritage Festival Events at the BMI

16 to 25 May 

with Gail Holmes

 Wed 4 June at 6pm

Dame Nellie Melba Birthday Celebration

  Performance – 18 May.

portrait of author with book cover

Australian Heritage Festival

Natasha Lester in conversation

1 May at 6pm

guides dressed in period costum

Australian Heritage Festival

Minerva's Secrets

25 April – Tour 1 at 7.30pm – fully booked
Tour 2 at 9.30pm – still tickets. 

portrait of author with book cover

Australian Heritage Festival

Natasha Lester in conversation

1 May at 6pm

Ballarat Heritage Festival BMI Day Tours

Two tours  on 20 &  21 May 

 

with Nicole Alexander

28 May at 6pm

BMI Fundraiser

Featuring:
The Hideaways,
The Harmonies &
Surf Shadows. 

2 course dinner & lots
of dancing