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The Reading Room (2pm in the Library for a start @ 10.30am – 12noon)

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 great new initiative. 
 
Expression of Interest to participate >

 

For more information go to

A Tale of Two Cities | Charles Dickens

APRIL SESSION

A Tale of Two Cities | Charles Dickens

After eighteen years as a political prisoner in the Bastille, the ageing Doctor Manette is finally released and reunited with his daughter in England. There the lives of two very different men, Charles Darnay, an exiled French aristocrat, and Sydney Carton, a disreputable but brilliant English lawyer, become enmeshed through their love for Lucie Manette. From the tranquil lanes of London, they are drawn against their will to the vengeful, bloodstained streets of Paris at the height of the Reign of Terror, and they soon fall under the lethal shadow of La Guillotine.

Review a title

Why not review a book for the benefit of our members. We will publish these reviews in our social media and website from time to time.

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

Rosemary’s Book of the Week

Three Boys Gone Mark Smith. Mark Smith presents the ultimate moral dilemma in a breathtaking psychological thriller. Would you try to save them?‘First rule of rescue: don’t create another casualty.’ Grace Disher is about to face every teacher’s worst nightmare. Three of her students are going to die. On a high school camping trip, three

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A Message from the Chair | BMI Board of Directors | April 2025

Hello everyone. As the leaves start to fall, pace is really picking up here at the BMI! Both the Twilight Talk and Author talks are attracting enthusiastic audiences and our Library is busy as usual. Don’t forget to invite your friends to join you as these events, wouldn’t want them to miss out!! Professor Geoffrey

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Rosemary’s Book of the Week

Wild Dark Shore Charlotte McConaghy. From the New York Times bestselling author of Migrations and Once There Were Wolves, a novel about a family living alone on a remote island, when a mysterious woman washes up on shore. At once a gripping mystery, an exquisitely written ode to the natural world, and a taut, psychological thriller, Wild Dark Shore is a

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Rosemary’s Book of the Week

Peter Stevens: Much More Than Cars Dr Phil Roberts OAM. This is the story of a successful Ballarat businessman involved in multiple community enterprises. The book, lavishly illustrated with images from his time in the motor industry, traces Peter’s early life, recounts the intriguing story of his business adventures and pays testimony to his community spirit

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Rosemary’s Book of the Week

The Florentine Quilt Chrissie Bellbrae. The Florentine Quilt is a beautifully written tale woven over multiple timelines connecting three women and a medieval quilt. The woman are also connected in an ancient tale of forbidden love. Australia 2024- Upcycle boutique owner and textile conservator Theodora Harris is still grieving her grandmother’s death when she finds herself

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portrait of author with book cover

Australian Heritage Festival

Natasha Lester in conversation

1 May at 6pm

guides dressed in period costum

Australian Heritage Festival

Minerva's Secrets

25 April – 2 tours: 7.30pm & 9.30pm

portrait of author with book cover

Australian Heritage Festival

Natasha Lester in conversation

1 May at 6pm

Dame Nellie Melba Birthday Celebration

Fundraising Dinner
17 May. 

  Performance – 18 May.

Ballarat Heritage Festival Events at the BMI

16 to 25 May 

Connections to War from a Ballarat Perspective

Wed 2-30 April, 5.30pm

Australian Heritage Festival Events at the BMI

18 April to 18 May

Dame Nellie Melba Birthday Celebration

Fundraising Dinner
17 May. 

  Performance – 18 May.

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 | Now $20

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