Ballarat Mechanics' 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.
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.
President
Paula Nicholson
Paula believes her membership of the BMI Board allows her to assist in the facilitation of the maximum usage of this iconic facility in the CBD, inspiring collaboration with organisations concentrating on education, research, heritage, information dissemination, and community building.
Paula returned to live in Ballarat over 25 years ago, and has been active in the Not for Profit sector in Fundraising, Events, Community Engagement and Governance for over 15 years across a range of local organisations.
Having a long-term connection with Ballarat, she attended Ballarat College as a Boarder for the final two years of her secondary education, then completed a Science Degree at Melbourne University majoring in Psychology. Paula went on to subsequently work in Business Analysis, Human Resources, Customer Service and Management, in Melbourne and Singapore for multi-national Dunn and Bradstreet.
In 1996 she returned to Ballarat where, with her husband, they purchased the generational family business, Nicholson Construction. Having grown up in the small regional community of Nhill, Paula has an understanding of the way smaller communities can work together to create opportunities for advancement, investment and growth. She believes that Ballarat is a wonderful and unique place to live and one where those who wish to, can make a real difference to the future of this prosperous regional centre by getting involved and making and leveraging connections of their own.
To this end, she sees herself as a Community Builder and is committed to utilising her experience and large network to encourage the broader community to be involved with both the heritage and future of the Ballarat Mechanics’ Institute.
Paula is also Chair of the Heritage Collection Committee
Vice President
Jane Valpied
Jane is an accomplished property valuer, building designer & community and landowner engagement professional who has excellent communication and project management skills. Jane lives in Ballarat with her husband Tim & has three adult children. Jane is passionate about the preservation of Ballarat’s historic buildings. Jane loves to catch up with family & friends in her spare time.
Jane is also Chair of the Building Committee
Secretary
Chris Hutton
Chris is a lifelong Ballarat resident with a deep-rooted commitment to preserving the city’s rich heritage. His longstanding interest in heritage trades and Ballarat’s distinctive built environment, including the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute (BMI), underscores his dedication to community and cultural preservation.
With a solid foundation in electrical trades and extensive experience in the construction industry, Chris has applied his engineering expertise across various sectors. Early in his career, he focused on designing and implementing automated machine systems within the manufacturing industry. His tenure as Facilities Manager for the City of Ballarat spanned seven years, during which he also contributed to the Heritage Advisory Committee, reflecting his commitment to integrating heritage considerations into urban development.
Chris furthered his impact on heritage conservation through his roles at Sovereign Hill, serving initially as Engineering Manager and subsequently as Director of Engineering over a decade-long period. Currently, he brings his wealth of experience to Homes Victoria, where he oversees multiple social housing programs within the Victorian State Government, aiming to enhance community well-being through sustainable housing solutions.
Chris‘s blend of technical proficiency, leadership in heritage-focused initiatives, and dedication to community development makes him a valuable asset to the BMI Board.
Treasurer
Edward Petrie
Edward has spent his entire life connected to Ballarat. Growing up in the nearby town of Ampitheatre and attending school in Ballarat, he understands the importance of connection to place as well as planning for the future.
Originally qualified as a heavy diesel mechanic and employed within the mining industry for close to a decade, Edward sought a change of career and is now an accountant for a local Ballarat firm. Edward lives in Ballarat with his partner and their young daughter. In his spare time, Edward enjoys walking, hiking, playing golf and spending time with his family and friends.
Edward is also Chair of the Finance and Risk Committee
Board Member
Malcolm Roberts
Malcolm Roberts is Ballarat born and educated. He has had a varied business career in hospitality, corporate management and senior management where he was responsible for delivering high levels of customer service. Malcolm has a firm commitment and passion for the Ballarat community and the region, supporting local small businesses and understands their impact on the economy of our great city. Malcolm sits on the Ballarat Art Foundation Board and is a proud Alfredton Rotarian.
Malcolm is also Chair of the Fundraising and Appeals Committee
Board Member
Jennifer Doolan
Jennifer has a Diploma of Business in Accounting and a Master of Business Administration and has an extensive understanding of business operations and management. She brings over 10 years of service and experience as a Company Secretary and Director to the BMI Board.
Jennifer enjoys being involved in the local community and is an active Rotarian and Past President of the Rotary Club of Wendouree Breakfast. She is also a member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and a Fellow of the Institute of Managers and Leaders Australia & New Zealand; which ensures she keeps abreast of current management and governance issues.
Jennifer’s particular areas of interest in an organisation are finance, strategy, and governance.
Board Member
Leigh Ericksen
Leigh grew up in Bacchus Marsh but found his home in Ballarat, arriving for university and quickly discovering a deep connection with the city’s lifestyle, community, and rich history. The decision to stay was an easy one.
Beginning his career as a graphic designer over twenty years ago, Leigh has built long-standing relationships with local businesses and community organisations across the region. Today he is the founder and Creative Director of Stoke Design, a Ballarat-based creative studio serving clients nationally. Leigh brings to the board a strong grounding in brand strategy, marketing, and visual communication, skills that translate directly into how organisations present themselves, engage their audiences, and grow their impact.
Outside of work, Leigh enjoys spending time with his family, indulging a passion for electronics and 3D printing, and plane spotting.
