National Science Week
15 – 23 August | As BMI associated events are confirmed they will be listed HERE.
National Science Week Read More »
BMI Monthly Calendar 2026
$40 – limited stock This year our 2026 calendar will feature twelve illustrations from the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute heritage book collection. All funds raised will go towards supporting the BMI – a not-for-profit community-owned organisation, continuing to share knowledge through our library and associated member services, providing a unique place to engage with history, and a vibrant hub for community events. The Calendar: If you would like to purchase the
BMI Monthly Calendar 2026 Read More »
Update from Liam Mudge, Venue Manager | Stage Ready
Stage Ready The BMI has received funding to launch Stage Ready — a new non-formal technical-theatre training program for regional creatives. The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute (BMI) is pleased to announce it has secured $22,946 to deliver Stage Ready, a training program designed to support emerging production talent and strengthen regional creative capability. Launching in 2026, Stage Ready
Update from Liam Mudge, Venue Manager | Stage Ready Read More »
A Message from the Chair | BMI Board of Directors | December 2025
Hello everybody, it is hard to believe we are writing the December edition of the BMI newsletter, but while the year seems to have dashed by, a lot has been achieved at the BMI, for you the Members and for the wider community. Much of this activity has been internal, with Finance and HR audits
A Message from the Chair | BMI Board of Directors | December 2025 Read More »
The Guardian | The Rural Newtork – I joined the oldest and most overlooked library in my town – and it feels like being part of a secret club – Dellaram Vreeland
The Ballarat Mechanics’ Institute has had a reading room for 165 years but today it has just 530 members – and tens of thousands of book lovers are missing out. I love my local libraries. I adore the staff, the ambience, the facilities and the free wifi. As a freelancer, hot-desking without needing to pay
A Message from the Chair | BMI Board of Directors | November 2025
The Governor was especially pleased to have a tour with myself and Ellen. I’d like to thank Katrina Hill for her involvement in the tour. Her Excellency was then thrilled to join staff and Collection and Library volunteers for a morning tea prepared by Malcolm Roberts. She enjoyed a chat with the small group where
A Message from the Chair | BMI Board of Directors | November 2025 Read More »
Ballarat Begonia Festival
7 to 9 March 2026 Festival Highlights Begonia Parade | Conservatory display | Family entertainment | Markets | Food and drink. Events at the BMI during the Fesitval will be listed here as they are confirmed Your ideas Why not let us know what Festivals & Events you think the BMI should participate in. The
Ballarat Begonia Festival Read More »
Ballarat Heritage Festival
21 – 24 May 2026 With Ballarat’s stunning Victorian architecture as the backdrop the annual festival highlights the city’s golden past and evolving future. Stay tuned for event updates on the Ballarat Heritage Festival. 2026 theme, Hidden Histories, will shine a light on the lesser-known stories, characters, and moments that have shaped Ballarat — the
Ballarat Heritage Festival Read More »
School tour of the BMI – October 2025
School Tours of the BMIOn 9 October the BMI hosted students from: Lucas Primary School Lal Lal Primary Delecombe Primary Buninyong Primary, and, Mt Egerton Primary Event Overview An engaging, educational day at the Ballaarat Mechanics Institute, designed to spark creativity and curiosity. The program includes a poetry writing workshop to develop writing skills, a guided
School tour of the BMI – October 2025 Read More »
Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute – Life Time Membership, Heritage Collection Volunteer, Marion Blythman
Marion Blythman Marion has been working on the BMI Heritage Collection for about 18 years! She loves working with her current volunteer team, Dani Stonehouse, Mary Walker and Judy Peters, and is very keen to promote and publicize the wonderful treasure filled collection much more widely. Marion is also looking to include new volunteers
