Important Dates Hi Folks I have a confession to make- I’m writing this note from a plane heading from Budapest to Nice and it is definitely warmer here. I tell you this not to boast but because as you can expect my husband and I are enjoying many cultural and heritage sites and buildings. Amongst […]
A Message from the Chair | BMI Board of Directors | July 2025 Read More »
Why are there windows in the basement? This is an updated account on the original article written by heritage architect, consultant and good friend of the BMI, Wendy Jacobs. Wendy was part of the architect and advisory team that devised and formulated the extensive plans for the building renovations, including the theatre, Humffray room, lift
Rex’s Snippets | The Basement… The Truth Read More »
A Treatise On the 20th. June 1868, the secretary of the BMI, Mr. Batten, wrote to Mr. W.F.Fowler in London, the following… “Only one vol. of Briton came by mail before last March, please send Volunteers Services Gazette, no news of the long promised case of books; I ordered many months ago Pole’s Treatise on Cornish
Rex’s Snippets | Cornish Pumping Engines Read More »
Newspaper Reading Room | Victoria League Room (ground floor) Lending Library | Batten Room Stand in the entry to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute and straight ahead is a long passage with five doors that could go anywhere. Open the double doors at the far end, you will find a room now called the Batten Room.
Rex’s Snippets | Visiting the BMI? | Where are you? Read More »
James Robert Pound was born to Mr James Henry and Mrs Selina Maude (nee Walton) Pound at their home Lyndon in Riversdale Road Auburn, Victoria on 22 April 1888. James studied Metallurgy at the School of Mines, Ballarat (SMB) where he was founder of the SMB Literary and Debating Society, and foundation member and Editor
BMI Notables | Contribution by Neil Leckie | Dr James Robert Pound, Benefactor Read More »
This is a open file of the minutes of the Institute from the inaugural meeting in 1859 to the annual meeting in 1863. It shows the optimism and the hardships encountered during the formation period and the problems encountered with the later lining of the great hall ceiling and the state of the trusses, the
Rex’s Snippets | The BMI The Early Days Read More »
Your gift will be tax-deductible this financial year if you make it before June 30.
Like many organisations the BMI faces significant funding challenges.
Featuring the BMI Image Collection | Now $20
Bubbly on arrival & Featuring quality items from our Vintage Shop | $60
Australian Heritage Festival
Minerva's Secrets
25 April – Tour 1 at 7.30pm – fully booked
Tour 2 at 9.30pm – still tickets.
2 course dinner & lots
of dancing
