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The Reading Room 

This volunteer run reading and discussion group meets monthly. It is anticipated that members will read the selected book prior to attendance.
If you would like to be a part of this group (free to BMI members) please complete the Expression of Interest. We welcome your feedback through this form as we progress this member lead initiative. 
 
Expression of Interest to participate >

For more information go to

This event is a BMI Community Cultural Project – Ballarat’s Oldest Cultural Institution

Rosemary’s Book of the Week

The Ghosts of August Peter Watt. An Australian family answers the call to arms of the First World War… In Sydney,  Josiah Steele is the new head of the family and grappling with his two very different sons – David, upstanding, decent and heir to the family enterprises; and Benjamin, wayward, restless and a  magnet for trouble.  To give Ben some responsibility, Josiah sends him on a trade mission straight into the territory of their soon-to-be-enemy. As war erupts across

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book cover

Rosemary’s Book of the Week

Into the Storm Cecelia Ahern. A storm lies ahead of her. Freedom lies beyond it. One Night It is a wild night in the middle of December, and GP Enya is crouched over a teenage boy, performing CPR in the rain. On Moment The boy survives, but Enya’s life splinters in two.  Trapped in a loveless marriage, the storm propels her to break free. One Chance To Be Free But even in the remote country town that becomes her sanctuary,

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Rosemary’s Book of the Week

Molly Rosalie Ham. Love, Death, War & Corsetry…. Her burgeoning corsetry business is starting to take off, thanks to some high-profile supporters.  She’s marching with Melbourne’s suffragists for better conditions for women everywhere.  And her family – her eccentric, confounding, adored father and aunt – are turning their minds to country retirement. But as the clouds of war gather and an ominous figure starts skulking in the shadows of her life, Molly’s dreams begin to falter.  Then, when true love

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Newsletter – December 2024

This issue … Message from the Chair | Medieval to Metal: Rockumentary Film Series | BMI Fundraisers, Golf, Open Garden, Book Sale | Stella Day Out | Volunteer Christmas Party | Album Launch Jackson Dahlenburg | Library New Releases and Recommendations | Christmas Library Closures

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Christmas Holiday Closures | Library

Monday 23 December – Sunday 5 January

Devonshire Tea & Fashion Parade

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

The Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute 2025 Calendar

Featuring the BMI Image Collection | $40

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.

BMI Fundraiser

Featuring:
The Hideaways,
The Harmonies &
Surf Shadows. 

2 course dinner & lots
of dancing