Our stallholders – listed here as they are confirmed
Anthony Kearle (author)
‘My writing process is pretty simple. I put on my headset, open my playlist and just start writing. I match songs (usually soundtracks) to scenes/chapters to help set the tone. If I can’t visualize what I write, then I won’t write it. For me, it has to seem real, regardless of the fantasy elements within. I like to jot down notes on my phone. These can be broad notes such as the weather in a scene, the terrain, or who is there. The notes could also be direct quotes, lines, or passages of text. As soon as I arrive home, I copy all the notes into my Word document beneath the chapter title they will be in.’
Excerpt from Author Serivces Australia Interview by Clayton Hobbs – 21 May 2023
BMI Vintage Shop – Geraldine
The BMI Vintage & Collectables Shop is a volunteer run shop located at the front of the BMI. The stock is kindly donated by BMI members and friends. The shop sells clothing and accessories, prints, photos, books and pre-loved objects. All funds support building maintainance projects.
Celestial Dragon – Mikayla
Crazy Cracker Creates – Emily
Digby Stevens (author)
Digby Stevens has lived and worked in Ballarat for over thirty years. He is an artist, teacher, music aficionado and lover of popular culture, and enjoys the works of Raymond Chandler and Ian Rankin. He also hosts a show on community radio exploring Progressive Rock music, and enjoys walking and writing.
Elisse Hay (author)
I’m the author of Something Wicked and Fate Untethered. I have no patience for bullshit, lots of words to share, and love fiercely.
…but there isn’t room in my life for toxicity. Give me big, wholesome and heartfelt!
I live, work and learn on the Wadawurrung lands of the Kulin Nation and acknowledge that the First Nations’ people have a deep and magical connection to the land, which they have never ceded.
Ellie alker Creations – Kellie
Ellie alker started out as something to do keeping busy during lockdown and one thing led to another. I up-cycle old kitchen utensils and chopping boards/ trays making them into jewellery , hair accessories or adding resin to give the item a new lease on life as a serving board.
Human Designs – Zlatko
Human Designs: Zlatko Balazic & John McKee (aka Jack Morph).
Both Zlatko & John have come from very different backgrounds. This has made for a highly fertile and vibrant mix of life experiences upon which to synthesis innovative design ideas, producing truly original artwork. As such, this creative process has involved the inimitable blending of various art mediums and new technologies. The organic, ‘morphic’ quality of our work has become our binding signature style. Presently our main goal is to engage our audience through direct, tactile light and sound displays.
Zlatko will be out the front of the BMI with his roving, whimsical contraption is no ordinary musical act-it’s an interactive sound playground on wheels! See it. Hear it. Play it! With a wild mix of instruments, the Oompah invites you to step up, make some noise, and be part of the performance.
JC Rycroft (author)
I’ve written stories for most of my life. Ever since I was a child, I’ve been entranced by stories and storytelling. I am vastly entertained by the unchosen heroes who can’t quite believe it, by encounters that are funny by accident, by desire that pokes its head where it’s not quite wanted (why hello queerness fancy meeting you here… again!), by fury that fills the soul and cannot be tamed. I love some meat on the bones of a story, but I want a rollicking good read. So that’s what I write.
Lisè Jewellery
I did a Cert IV business course and that’s where Lisè Jewellery was born.
Little Rae Vintage – Benne
‘Cuteness and curios for all ages’
The Little Rae stall has a selection of handmade textile items including toys, bags, soft furnishings and fashion accessories, made from high quality fabrics sourced from around the world. These are combined with a few eclectic pieces of vintage homeware including vases, serving ware and artworks. Items start at $5 – everyone can afford a treat or treasure from Little Rae.
Melanie Ansley (author)
I’m an award-winning author and filmmaker of Chinese descent. I love stories involving magic, underdogs, and the power of art in our lives.
I’ve written and produced films that have screened on Netflix, been held at gunpoint during a film festival, and penned a series that won a student Emmy.
When I’m not doing those things, I’m juggling writing, filmmaking, and raising two children (all of which involve a certain level of magic and a lot of luck).
Nicas Nik Naks – Nicole
Nicholas Wetemans (author)
YA Fantasy Author of The Blackburn Chronicles, In The Darkness & Let There Be Light-Available now!
Sukha Art Face Painting – Tam
With over 20 years experience, Tam from Sukha Art Face Painting can say yes to just about any request! Big and little faces are welcome. Tam is a local educator, artist and face painter – glitter tattoos, hand made bling, headbands and gift bags are also available if face/ arm painting isn’t your thing 🙂
TBH Studio – Toni Louise
Meet the unstoppable trio behind TBH Studio – Toni Louise, Brittany Wallmeyer, and Holly Would. Together, they’ve created a bold and vibrant art collective in the heart of Ballarat. TBH Studio is all about creativity, connection, and having a damn good time. Whether you’re an artist, an art lover, or just curious, there’s always something fresh and exciting happening. Come be part of the fun!
Twin Hearts – Jackie
Twin Hearts is a charitable foundation launched in 2017. Think local. Act global.