BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute - ECPv6.17.1//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:Australia/Melbourne BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+1100 TZOFFSETTO:+1000 TZNAME:AEST DTSTART:20240406T160000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+1000 TZOFFSETTO:+1100 TZNAME:AEDT DTSTART:20241005T160000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+1100 TZOFFSETTO:+1000 TZNAME:AEST DTSTART:20250405T160000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+1000 TZOFFSETTO:+1100 TZNAME:AEDT DTSTART:20251004T160000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+1100 TZOFFSETTO:+1000 TZNAME:AEST DTSTART:20260404T160000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+1000 TZOFFSETTO:+1100 TZNAME:AEDT DTSTART:20261003T160000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+1100 TZOFFSETTO:+1000 TZNAME:AEST DTSTART:20270403T160000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+1000 TZOFFSETTO:+1100 TZNAME:AEDT DTSTART:20271002T160000 END:DAYLIGHT END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260414T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260414T193000 DTSTAMP:20260331T045131Z CREATED:20260303T223948Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T045131Z UID:71084-1776189600-1776195000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with Gerardine Christou: The story of Peg Rankin DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Anthea Hodgson \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n June 17\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Palace of Lost Virture \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anthea Hodgson \n \n Anthea will be in conversation with local author  A J Lyndon \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n At its core\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a story of female friendship and resilience. \n \n Blending real historical events with beautifully written fiction\, the novel shines a light on overlooked chapters of Australian history. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Marigold is a devout Christian working with her mother to save the local women from a life dedicated to sex work. Pansy is one of those sex workers and the owner of Pansy Arlington’s Palace of Pleasure. When the women’s paths cross\, what ensues is an extraordinary friendship\, a shocking murder trial and a history that gives voice to the lives of the remarkable women who lived and died in the goldfields. \n \n Set in Kalgoorlie between 1898 and 1926\, this intimate story of female friendship is drawn from Western Australia’s dark past and real history. Inspired by the real-life murders of policemen Alexander Pitman and John Walsh\, this novel threads a brutal act of violence through its narrative. As the investigation unfolds\, questions of guilt\, justice and truth become increasingly blurred. \n \n The character of Pansy Arlington and the Women’s Christian Temperance Union are also based on real people and movements from the Kalgoorlie area. For around 90 years\, Kalgoorlie employed a system called “containment” whereby prostitution was illegal\, but brothels could operate if they abided by specific rules. The hidden history of women living on the margins and in the “containment” system exposes the hypocrisy and control embedded in society’s treatment of so-called “fallen” women. In The Palace of Lost Virtue\, Anthea challenges the rigid ideas of good and bad women. \n \n \n \n At its core\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a story of female friendship and resilience. Amongst hardship\, isolation and crime\, the bond between Pansy and Marigold becomes a source of strength and survival. Their relationship offers a moving exploration of loyalty and compassion in a world that both divides and judges them. \n \n Blending real historical events with beautifully written fiction\, the novel shines a light on overlooked chapters of Australian history. Fromthe lives of sex workers to infamous murders\, Anthea Hodgson brings depth and voice to stories long ignored. With its combination ofemotional intensity and historical insight\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a powerful story of violence\, loss and enduring love. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anthea Hodgson is a country girl from the WA Wheatbelt. She worked as a radio producer in WA\, NSW and Queensland before returning to WA\, where she lives with her husband and two children. She is the author of The Drifter\, The Cowgirl and the highly acclaimed 2023historical novel based on the Bangka Island Massacre\, The War Nurses. She is co-host of the Rachael Johns Book Club on facebook and the podcast Reading Between Deadlines. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About host A J Lyndon \n \n \n \n \n \n I have a long standing interest in history\, particularly the English Civil Wars of the 17th century. In 2014 I started writing a novel about the “War Without an enemy” as it was described by an army commander in 1643. The Welsh Linnet was published in 2017. The sequel of which is The Tawny Sash. My short stories have been published in a number of literary journals and anthologies. Despite being Australian I keep in regular contact with historical experts in the UK who patiently answer questions on every aspect of 17th century life on and off the battlefield. I am married with two children and a very spoiled dog. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/in-conversation-with-gerardine-christou/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/sp-promo-talks-v4.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260324T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260324T193000 DTSTAMP:20260202T030026Z CREATED:20260201T232719Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260202T030026Z UID:70486-1774375200-1774380600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with Chrissie Bellbrae DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Anthea Hodgson \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n June 17\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Palace of Lost Virture \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anthea Hodgson \n \n Anthea will be in conversation with local author  A J Lyndon \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n At its core\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a story of female friendship and resilience. \n \n Blending real historical events with beautifully written fiction\, the novel shines a light on overlooked chapters of Australian history. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Marigold is a devout Christian working with her mother to save the local women from a life dedicated to sex work. Pansy is one of those sex workers and the owner of Pansy Arlington’s Palace of Pleasure. When the women’s paths cross\, what ensues is an extraordinary friendship\, a shocking murder trial and a history that gives voice to the lives of the remarkable women who lived and died in the goldfields. \n \n Set in Kalgoorlie between 1898 and 1926\, this intimate story of female friendship is drawn from Western Australia’s dark past and real history. Inspired by the real-life murders of policemen Alexander Pitman and John Walsh\, this novel threads a brutal act of violence through its narrative. As the investigation unfolds\, questions of guilt\, justice and truth become increasingly blurred. \n \n The character of Pansy Arlington and the Women’s Christian Temperance Union are also based on real people and movements from the Kalgoorlie area. For around 90 years\, Kalgoorlie employed a system called “containment” whereby prostitution was illegal\, but brothels could operate if they abided by specific rules. The hidden history of women living on the margins and in the “containment” system exposes the hypocrisy and control embedded in society’s treatment of so-called “fallen” women. In The Palace of Lost Virtue\, Anthea challenges the rigid ideas of good and bad women. \n \n \n \n At its core\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a story of female friendship and resilience. Amongst hardship\, isolation and crime\, the bond between Pansy and Marigold becomes a source of strength and survival. Their relationship offers a moving exploration of loyalty and compassion in a world that both divides and judges them. \n \n Blending real historical events with beautifully written fiction\, the novel shines a light on overlooked chapters of Australian history. Fromthe lives of sex workers to infamous murders\, Anthea Hodgson brings depth and voice to stories long ignored. With its combination ofemotional intensity and historical insight\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a powerful story of violence\, loss and enduring love. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anthea Hodgson is a country girl from the WA Wheatbelt. She worked as a radio producer in WA\, NSW and Queensland before returning to WA\, where she lives with her husband and two children. She is the author of The Drifter\, The Cowgirl and the highly acclaimed 2023historical novel based on the Bangka Island Massacre\, The War Nurses. She is co-host of the Rachael Johns Book Club on facebook and the podcast Reading Between Deadlines. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About host A J Lyndon \n \n \n \n \n \n I have a long standing interest in history\, particularly the English Civil Wars of the 17th century. In 2014 I started writing a novel about the “War Without an enemy” as it was described by an army commander in 1643. The Welsh Linnet was published in 2017. The sequel of which is The Tawny Sash. My short stories have been published in a number of literary journals and anthologies. Despite being Australian I keep in regular contact with historical experts in the UK who patiently answer questions on every aspect of 17th century life on and off the battlefield. I am married with two children and a very spoiled dog. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/in-conversation-with-chrissie-bellbrae/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/sp-promo-chrissie-bellbrae.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260310T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260310T193000 DTSTAMP:20260309T233337Z CREATED:20251110T032113Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260309T233337Z UID:68454-1773165600-1773171000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with Kate Mildenhall & Josh Pomare DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Anthea Hodgson \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n June 17\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Palace of Lost Virture \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anthea Hodgson \n \n Anthea will be in conversation with local author  A J Lyndon \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n At its core\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a story of female friendship and resilience. \n \n Blending real historical events with beautifully written fiction\, the novel shines a light on overlooked chapters of Australian history. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Marigold is a devout Christian working with her mother to save the local women from a life dedicated to sex work. Pansy is one of those sex workers and the owner of Pansy Arlington’s Palace of Pleasure. When the women’s paths cross\, what ensues is an extraordinary friendship\, a shocking murder trial and a history that gives voice to the lives of the remarkable women who lived and died in the goldfields. \n \n Set in Kalgoorlie between 1898 and 1926\, this intimate story of female friendship is drawn from Western Australia’s dark past and real history. Inspired by the real-life murders of policemen Alexander Pitman and John Walsh\, this novel threads a brutal act of violence through its narrative. As the investigation unfolds\, questions of guilt\, justice and truth become increasingly blurred. \n \n The character of Pansy Arlington and the Women’s Christian Temperance Union are also based on real people and movements from the Kalgoorlie area. For around 90 years\, Kalgoorlie employed a system called “containment” whereby prostitution was illegal\, but brothels could operate if they abided by specific rules. The hidden history of women living on the margins and in the “containment” system exposes the hypocrisy and control embedded in society’s treatment of so-called “fallen” women. In The Palace of Lost Virtue\, Anthea challenges the rigid ideas of good and bad women. \n \n \n \n At its core\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a story of female friendship and resilience. Amongst hardship\, isolation and crime\, the bond between Pansy and Marigold becomes a source of strength and survival. Their relationship offers a moving exploration of loyalty and compassion in a world that both divides and judges them. \n \n Blending real historical events with beautifully written fiction\, the novel shines a light on overlooked chapters of Australian history. Fromthe lives of sex workers to infamous murders\, Anthea Hodgson brings depth and voice to stories long ignored. With its combination ofemotional intensity and historical insight\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a powerful story of violence\, loss and enduring love. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anthea Hodgson is a country girl from the WA Wheatbelt. She worked as a radio producer in WA\, NSW and Queensland before returning to WA\, where she lives with her husband and two children. She is the author of The Drifter\, The Cowgirl and the highly acclaimed 2023historical novel based on the Bangka Island Massacre\, The War Nurses. She is co-host of the Rachael Johns Book Club on facebook and the podcast Reading Between Deadlines. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About host A J Lyndon \n \n \n \n \n \n I have a long standing interest in history\, particularly the English Civil Wars of the 17th century. In 2014 I started writing a novel about the “War Without an enemy” as it was described by an army commander in 1643. The Welsh Linnet was published in 2017. The sequel of which is The Tawny Sash. My short stories have been published in a number of literary journals and anthologies. Despite being Australian I keep in regular contact with historical experts in the UK who patiently answer questions on every aspect of 17th century life on and off the battlefield. I am married with two children and a very spoiled dog. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/in-conversation-with-christian-white-josh-pomare/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/square-promo-kate-josh.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260225T183000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260225T200000 DTSTAMP:20251008T030310Z CREATED:20251008T011020Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251008T030310Z UID:67900-1772044200-1772049600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with Paula McLean DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Anthea Hodgson \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n June 17\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Palace of Lost Virture \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anthea Hodgson \n \n Anthea will be in conversation with local author  A J Lyndon \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n At its core\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a story of female friendship and resilience. \n \n Blending real historical events with beautifully written fiction\, the novel shines a light on overlooked chapters of Australian history. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Marigold is a devout Christian working with her mother to save the local women from a life dedicated to sex work. Pansy is one of those sex workers and the owner of Pansy Arlington’s Palace of Pleasure. When the women’s paths cross\, what ensues is an extraordinary friendship\, a shocking murder trial and a history that gives voice to the lives of the remarkable women who lived and died in the goldfields. \n \n Set in Kalgoorlie between 1898 and 1926\, this intimate story of female friendship is drawn from Western Australia’s dark past and real history. Inspired by the real-life murders of policemen Alexander Pitman and John Walsh\, this novel threads a brutal act of violence through its narrative. As the investigation unfolds\, questions of guilt\, justice and truth become increasingly blurred. \n \n The character of Pansy Arlington and the Women’s Christian Temperance Union are also based on real people and movements from the Kalgoorlie area. For around 90 years\, Kalgoorlie employed a system called “containment” whereby prostitution was illegal\, but brothels could operate if they abided by specific rules. The hidden history of women living on the margins and in the “containment” system exposes the hypocrisy and control embedded in society’s treatment of so-called “fallen” women. In The Palace of Lost Virtue\, Anthea challenges the rigid ideas of good and bad women. \n \n \n \n At its core\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a story of female friendship and resilience. Amongst hardship\, isolation and crime\, the bond between Pansy and Marigold becomes a source of strength and survival. Their relationship offers a moving exploration of loyalty and compassion in a world that both divides and judges them. \n \n Blending real historical events with beautifully written fiction\, the novel shines a light on overlooked chapters of Australian history. Fromthe lives of sex workers to infamous murders\, Anthea Hodgson brings depth and voice to stories long ignored. With its combination ofemotional intensity and historical insight\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a powerful story of violence\, loss and enduring love. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anthea Hodgson is a country girl from the WA Wheatbelt. She worked as a radio producer in WA\, NSW and Queensland before returning to WA\, where she lives with her husband and two children. She is the author of The Drifter\, The Cowgirl and the highly acclaimed 2023historical novel based on the Bangka Island Massacre\, The War Nurses. She is co-host of the Rachael Johns Book Club on facebook and the podcast Reading Between Deadlines. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About host A J Lyndon \n \n \n \n \n \n I have a long standing interest in history\, particularly the English Civil Wars of the 17th century. In 2014 I started writing a novel about the “War Without an enemy” as it was described by an army commander in 1643. The Welsh Linnet was published in 2017. The sequel of which is The Tawny Sash. My short stories have been published in a number of literary journals and anthologies. Despite being Australian I keep in regular contact with historical experts in the UK who patiently answer questions on every aspect of 17th century life on and off the battlefield. I am married with two children and a very spoiled dog. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/paula-mclean/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/sp-promo-paula-mclean.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260214T120000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260214T140000 DTSTAMP:20260112T060448Z CREATED:20260112T012814Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260112T060448Z UID:69779-1771070400-1771077600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In conversation with Tori Baxter | Book Launch DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Anthea Hodgson \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n June 17\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Palace of Lost Virture \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anthea Hodgson \n \n Anthea will be in conversation with local author  A J Lyndon \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n At its core\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a story of female friendship and resilience. \n \n Blending real historical events with beautifully written fiction\, the novel shines a light on overlooked chapters of Australian history. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Marigold is a devout Christian working with her mother to save the local women from a life dedicated to sex work. Pansy is one of those sex workers and the owner of Pansy Arlington’s Palace of Pleasure. When the women’s paths cross\, what ensues is an extraordinary friendship\, a shocking murder trial and a history that gives voice to the lives of the remarkable women who lived and died in the goldfields. \n \n Set in Kalgoorlie between 1898 and 1926\, this intimate story of female friendship is drawn from Western Australia’s dark past and real history. Inspired by the real-life murders of policemen Alexander Pitman and John Walsh\, this novel threads a brutal act of violence through its narrative. As the investigation unfolds\, questions of guilt\, justice and truth become increasingly blurred. \n \n The character of Pansy Arlington and the Women’s Christian Temperance Union are also based on real people and movements from the Kalgoorlie area. For around 90 years\, Kalgoorlie employed a system called “containment” whereby prostitution was illegal\, but brothels could operate if they abided by specific rules. The hidden history of women living on the margins and in the “containment” system exposes the hypocrisy and control embedded in society’s treatment of so-called “fallen” women. In The Palace of Lost Virtue\, Anthea challenges the rigid ideas of good and bad women. \n \n \n \n At its core\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a story of female friendship and resilience. Amongst hardship\, isolation and crime\, the bond between Pansy and Marigold becomes a source of strength and survival. Their relationship offers a moving exploration of loyalty and compassion in a world that both divides and judges them. \n \n Blending real historical events with beautifully written fiction\, the novel shines a light on overlooked chapters of Australian history. Fromthe lives of sex workers to infamous murders\, Anthea Hodgson brings depth and voice to stories long ignored. With its combination ofemotional intensity and historical insight\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a powerful story of violence\, loss and enduring love. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anthea Hodgson is a country girl from the WA Wheatbelt. She worked as a radio producer in WA\, NSW and Queensland before returning to WA\, where she lives with her husband and two children. She is the author of The Drifter\, The Cowgirl and the highly acclaimed 2023historical novel based on the Bangka Island Massacre\, The War Nurses. She is co-host of the Rachael Johns Book Club on facebook and the podcast Reading Between Deadlines. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About host A J Lyndon \n \n \n \n \n \n I have a long standing interest in history\, particularly the English Civil Wars of the 17th century. In 2014 I started writing a novel about the “War Without an enemy” as it was described by an army commander in 1643. The Welsh Linnet was published in 2017. The sequel of which is The Tawny Sash. My short stories have been published in a number of literary journals and anthologies. Despite being Australian I keep in regular contact with historical experts in the UK who patiently answer questions on every aspect of 17th century life on and off the battlefield. I am married with two children and a very spoiled dog. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/in-conversation-with-tori-baxter/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Author Talk ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Untitled-1.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260128T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260128T193000 DTSTAMP:20251215T040410Z CREATED:20251120T065224Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251215T040410Z UID:68764-1769623200-1769628600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with Geoff Parkes and Susi Fox DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Anthea Hodgson \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n June 17\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Palace of Lost Virture \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anthea Hodgson \n \n Anthea will be in conversation with local author  A J Lyndon \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n At its core\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a story of female friendship and resilience. \n \n Blending real historical events with beautifully written fiction\, the novel shines a light on overlooked chapters of Australian history. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Marigold is a devout Christian working with her mother to save the local women from a life dedicated to sex work. Pansy is one of those sex workers and the owner of Pansy Arlington’s Palace of Pleasure. When the women’s paths cross\, what ensues is an extraordinary friendship\, a shocking murder trial and a history that gives voice to the lives of the remarkable women who lived and died in the goldfields. \n \n Set in Kalgoorlie between 1898 and 1926\, this intimate story of female friendship is drawn from Western Australia’s dark past and real history. Inspired by the real-life murders of policemen Alexander Pitman and John Walsh\, this novel threads a brutal act of violence through its narrative. As the investigation unfolds\, questions of guilt\, justice and truth become increasingly blurred. \n \n The character of Pansy Arlington and the Women’s Christian Temperance Union are also based on real people and movements from the Kalgoorlie area. For around 90 years\, Kalgoorlie employed a system called “containment” whereby prostitution was illegal\, but brothels could operate if they abided by specific rules. The hidden history of women living on the margins and in the “containment” system exposes the hypocrisy and control embedded in society’s treatment of so-called “fallen” women. In The Palace of Lost Virtue\, Anthea challenges the rigid ideas of good and bad women. \n \n \n \n At its core\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a story of female friendship and resilience. Amongst hardship\, isolation and crime\, the bond between Pansy and Marigold becomes a source of strength and survival. Their relationship offers a moving exploration of loyalty and compassion in a world that both divides and judges them. \n \n Blending real historical events with beautifully written fiction\, the novel shines a light on overlooked chapters of Australian history. Fromthe lives of sex workers to infamous murders\, Anthea Hodgson brings depth and voice to stories long ignored. With its combination ofemotional intensity and historical insight\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a powerful story of violence\, loss and enduring love. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anthea Hodgson is a country girl from the WA Wheatbelt. She worked as a radio producer in WA\, NSW and Queensland before returning to WA\, where she lives with her husband and two children. She is the author of The Drifter\, The Cowgirl and the highly acclaimed 2023historical novel based on the Bangka Island Massacre\, The War Nurses. She is co-host of the Rachael Johns Book Club on facebook and the podcast Reading Between Deadlines. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About host A J Lyndon \n \n \n \n \n \n I have a long standing interest in history\, particularly the English Civil Wars of the 17th century. In 2014 I started writing a novel about the “War Without an enemy” as it was described by an army commander in 1643. The Welsh Linnet was published in 2017. The sequel of which is The Tawny Sash. My short stories have been published in a number of literary journals and anthologies. Despite being Australian I keep in regular contact with historical experts in the UK who patiently answer questions on every aspect of 17th century life on and off the battlefield. I am married with two children and a very spoiled dog. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/in-conversation-with-geoff-parks-susi-fox/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/sq-promo-geoff.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251206T100000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251206T140000 DTSTAMP:20251128T005707Z CREATED:20251110T024632Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251128T005707Z UID:68436-1765015200-1765029600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:BMI Christmas Book Sale DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Anthea Hodgson \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n June 17\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Palace of Lost Virture \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anthea Hodgson \n \n Anthea will be in conversation with local author  A J Lyndon \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n At its core\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a story of female friendship and resilience. \n \n Blending real historical events with beautifully written fiction\, the novel shines a light on overlooked chapters of Australian history. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Marigold is a devout Christian working with her mother to save the local women from a life dedicated to sex work. Pansy is one of those sex workers and the owner of Pansy Arlington’s Palace of Pleasure. When the women’s paths cross\, what ensues is an extraordinary friendship\, a shocking murder trial and a history that gives voice to the lives of the remarkable women who lived and died in the goldfields. \n \n Set in Kalgoorlie between 1898 and 1926\, this intimate story of female friendship is drawn from Western Australia’s dark past and real history. Inspired by the real-life murders of policemen Alexander Pitman and John Walsh\, this novel threads a brutal act of violence through its narrative. As the investigation unfolds\, questions of guilt\, justice and truth become increasingly blurred. \n \n The character of Pansy Arlington and the Women’s Christian Temperance Union are also based on real people and movements from the Kalgoorlie area. For around 90 years\, Kalgoorlie employed a system called “containment” whereby prostitution was illegal\, but brothels could operate if they abided by specific rules. The hidden history of women living on the margins and in the “containment” system exposes the hypocrisy and control embedded in society’s treatment of so-called “fallen” women. In The Palace of Lost Virtue\, Anthea challenges the rigid ideas of good and bad women. \n \n \n \n At its core\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a story of female friendship and resilience. Amongst hardship\, isolation and crime\, the bond between Pansy and Marigold becomes a source of strength and survival. Their relationship offers a moving exploration of loyalty and compassion in a world that both divides and judges them. \n \n Blending real historical events with beautifully written fiction\, the novel shines a light on overlooked chapters of Australian history. Fromthe lives of sex workers to infamous murders\, Anthea Hodgson brings depth and voice to stories long ignored. With its combination ofemotional intensity and historical insight\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a powerful story of violence\, loss and enduring love. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anthea Hodgson is a country girl from the WA Wheatbelt. She worked as a radio producer in WA\, NSW and Queensland before returning to WA\, where she lives with her husband and two children. She is the author of The Drifter\, The Cowgirl and the highly acclaimed 2023historical novel based on the Bangka Island Massacre\, The War Nurses. She is co-host of the Rachael Johns Book Club on facebook and the podcast Reading Between Deadlines. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About host A J Lyndon \n \n \n \n \n \n I have a long standing interest in history\, particularly the English Civil Wars of the 17th century. In 2014 I started writing a novel about the “War Without an enemy” as it was described by an army commander in 1643. The Welsh Linnet was published in 2017. The sequel of which is The Tawny Sash. My short stories have been published in a number of literary journals and anthologies. Despite being Australian I keep in regular contact with historical experts in the UK who patiently answer questions on every aspect of 17th century life on and off the battlefield. I am married with two children and a very spoiled dog. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/bmi-christmas-book-sale/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Fundraiser,Important Dates,Library,Market ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/book-sale-square-promo-christmas-1.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251202T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251202T193000 DTSTAMP:20251113T003410Z CREATED:20251113T001614Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251113T003410Z UID:68682-1764698400-1764703800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with William McInnes DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Anthea Hodgson \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n June 17\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Palace of Lost Virture \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anthea Hodgson \n \n Anthea will be in conversation with local author  A J Lyndon \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n At its core\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a story of female friendship and resilience. \n \n Blending real historical events with beautifully written fiction\, the novel shines a light on overlooked chapters of Australian history. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Marigold is a devout Christian working with her mother to save the local women from a life dedicated to sex work. Pansy is one of those sex workers and the owner of Pansy Arlington’s Palace of Pleasure. When the women’s paths cross\, what ensues is an extraordinary friendship\, a shocking murder trial and a history that gives voice to the lives of the remarkable women who lived and died in the goldfields. \n \n Set in Kalgoorlie between 1898 and 1926\, this intimate story of female friendship is drawn from Western Australia’s dark past and real history. Inspired by the real-life murders of policemen Alexander Pitman and John Walsh\, this novel threads a brutal act of violence through its narrative. As the investigation unfolds\, questions of guilt\, justice and truth become increasingly blurred. \n \n The character of Pansy Arlington and the Women’s Christian Temperance Union are also based on real people and movements from the Kalgoorlie area. For around 90 years\, Kalgoorlie employed a system called “containment” whereby prostitution was illegal\, but brothels could operate if they abided by specific rules. The hidden history of women living on the margins and in the “containment” system exposes the hypocrisy and control embedded in society’s treatment of so-called “fallen” women. In The Palace of Lost Virtue\, Anthea challenges the rigid ideas of good and bad women. \n \n \n \n At its core\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a story of female friendship and resilience. Amongst hardship\, isolation and crime\, the bond between Pansy and Marigold becomes a source of strength and survival. Their relationship offers a moving exploration of loyalty and compassion in a world that both divides and judges them. \n \n Blending real historical events with beautifully written fiction\, the novel shines a light on overlooked chapters of Australian history. Fromthe lives of sex workers to infamous murders\, Anthea Hodgson brings depth and voice to stories long ignored. With its combination ofemotional intensity and historical insight\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a powerful story of violence\, loss and enduring love. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anthea Hodgson is a country girl from the WA Wheatbelt. She worked as a radio producer in WA\, NSW and Queensland before returning to WA\, where she lives with her husband and two children. She is the author of The Drifter\, The Cowgirl and the highly acclaimed 2023historical novel based on the Bangka Island Massacre\, The War Nurses. She is co-host of the Rachael Johns Book Club on facebook and the podcast Reading Between Deadlines. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About host A J Lyndon \n \n \n \n \n \n I have a long standing interest in history\, particularly the English Civil Wars of the 17th century. In 2014 I started writing a novel about the “War Without an enemy” as it was described by an army commander in 1643. The Welsh Linnet was published in 2017. The sequel of which is The Tawny Sash. My short stories have been published in a number of literary journals and anthologies. Despite being Australian I keep in regular contact with historical experts in the UK who patiently answer questions on every aspect of 17th century life on and off the battlefield. I am married with two children and a very spoiled dog. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/william-mcinnes/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/william-sq-promo.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251120T183000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251120T200000 DTSTAMP:20251110T031636Z CREATED:20251110T031233Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251110T031636Z UID:68444-1763663400-1763668800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:An Evening with Peter FitzSimons AM DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Anthea Hodgson \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n June 17\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Palace of Lost Virture \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anthea Hodgson \n \n Anthea will be in conversation with local author  A J Lyndon \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n At its core\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a story of female friendship and resilience. \n \n Blending real historical events with beautifully written fiction\, the novel shines a light on overlooked chapters of Australian history. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Marigold is a devout Christian working with her mother to save the local women from a life dedicated to sex work. Pansy is one of those sex workers and the owner of Pansy Arlington’s Palace of Pleasure. When the women’s paths cross\, what ensues is an extraordinary friendship\, a shocking murder trial and a history that gives voice to the lives of the remarkable women who lived and died in the goldfields. \n \n Set in Kalgoorlie between 1898 and 1926\, this intimate story of female friendship is drawn from Western Australia’s dark past and real history. Inspired by the real-life murders of policemen Alexander Pitman and John Walsh\, this novel threads a brutal act of violence through its narrative. As the investigation unfolds\, questions of guilt\, justice and truth become increasingly blurred. \n \n The character of Pansy Arlington and the Women’s Christian Temperance Union are also based on real people and movements from the Kalgoorlie area. For around 90 years\, Kalgoorlie employed a system called “containment” whereby prostitution was illegal\, but brothels could operate if they abided by specific rules. The hidden history of women living on the margins and in the “containment” system exposes the hypocrisy and control embedded in society’s treatment of so-called “fallen” women. In The Palace of Lost Virtue\, Anthea challenges the rigid ideas of good and bad women. \n \n \n \n At its core\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a story of female friendship and resilience. Amongst hardship\, isolation and crime\, the bond between Pansy and Marigold becomes a source of strength and survival. Their relationship offers a moving exploration of loyalty and compassion in a world that both divides and judges them. \n \n Blending real historical events with beautifully written fiction\, the novel shines a light on overlooked chapters of Australian history. Fromthe lives of sex workers to infamous murders\, Anthea Hodgson brings depth and voice to stories long ignored. With its combination ofemotional intensity and historical insight\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a powerful story of violence\, loss and enduring love. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anthea Hodgson is a country girl from the WA Wheatbelt. She worked as a radio producer in WA\, NSW and Queensland before returning to WA\, where she lives with her husband and two children. She is the author of The Drifter\, The Cowgirl and the highly acclaimed 2023historical novel based on the Bangka Island Massacre\, The War Nurses. She is co-host of the Rachael Johns Book Club on facebook and the podcast Reading Between Deadlines. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About host A J Lyndon \n \n \n \n \n \n I have a long standing interest in history\, particularly the English Civil Wars of the 17th century. In 2014 I started writing a novel about the “War Without an enemy” as it was described by an army commander in 1643. The Welsh Linnet was published in 2017. The sequel of which is The Tawny Sash. My short stories have been published in a number of literary journals and anthologies. Despite being Australian I keep in regular contact with historical experts in the UK who patiently answer questions on every aspect of 17th century life on and off the battlefield. I am married with two children and a very spoiled dog. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/an-evening-with-peter-fitzsimons-am/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/cover-peter-fitzsimonos-book-e1762145093105.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251118T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251118T193000 DTSTAMP:20250930T062718Z CREATED:20250917T050616Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250930T062718Z UID:67363-1763488800-1763494200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with Margaret Hickey DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Anthea Hodgson \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n June 17\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Palace of Lost Virture \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anthea Hodgson \n \n Anthea will be in conversation with local author  A J Lyndon \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n At its core\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a story of female friendship and resilience. \n \n Blending real historical events with beautifully written fiction\, the novel shines a light on overlooked chapters of Australian history. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Marigold is a devout Christian working with her mother to save the local women from a life dedicated to sex work. Pansy is one of those sex workers and the owner of Pansy Arlington’s Palace of Pleasure. When the women’s paths cross\, what ensues is an extraordinary friendship\, a shocking murder trial and a history that gives voice to the lives of the remarkable women who lived and died in the goldfields. \n \n Set in Kalgoorlie between 1898 and 1926\, this intimate story of female friendship is drawn from Western Australia’s dark past and real history. Inspired by the real-life murders of policemen Alexander Pitman and John Walsh\, this novel threads a brutal act of violence through its narrative. As the investigation unfolds\, questions of guilt\, justice and truth become increasingly blurred. \n \n The character of Pansy Arlington and the Women’s Christian Temperance Union are also based on real people and movements from the Kalgoorlie area. For around 90 years\, Kalgoorlie employed a system called “containment” whereby prostitution was illegal\, but brothels could operate if they abided by specific rules. The hidden history of women living on the margins and in the “containment” system exposes the hypocrisy and control embedded in society’s treatment of so-called “fallen” women. In The Palace of Lost Virtue\, Anthea challenges the rigid ideas of good and bad women. \n \n \n \n At its core\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a story of female friendship and resilience. Amongst hardship\, isolation and crime\, the bond between Pansy and Marigold becomes a source of strength and survival. Their relationship offers a moving exploration of loyalty and compassion in a world that both divides and judges them. \n \n Blending real historical events with beautifully written fiction\, the novel shines a light on overlooked chapters of Australian history. Fromthe lives of sex workers to infamous murders\, Anthea Hodgson brings depth and voice to stories long ignored. With its combination ofemotional intensity and historical insight\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a powerful story of violence\, loss and enduring love. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anthea Hodgson is a country girl from the WA Wheatbelt. She worked as a radio producer in WA\, NSW and Queensland before returning to WA\, where she lives with her husband and two children. She is the author of The Drifter\, The Cowgirl and the highly acclaimed 2023historical novel based on the Bangka Island Massacre\, The War Nurses. She is co-host of the Rachael Johns Book Club on facebook and the podcast Reading Between Deadlines. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About host A J Lyndon \n \n \n \n \n \n I have a long standing interest in history\, particularly the English Civil Wars of the 17th century. In 2014 I started writing a novel about the “War Without an enemy” as it was described by an army commander in 1643. The Welsh Linnet was published in 2017. The sequel of which is The Tawny Sash. My short stories have been published in a number of literary journals and anthologies. Despite being Australian I keep in regular contact with historical experts in the UK who patiently answer questions on every aspect of 17th century life on and off the battlefield. I am married with two children and a very spoiled dog. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/margaret-hickey-25/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Fundraiser,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/margaret-hickey-sq-promo.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251106T183000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251106T200000 DTSTAMP:20250813T003339Z CREATED:20250711T034827Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250813T003339Z UID:66176-1762453800-1762459200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with Rachael Johns DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Anthea Hodgson \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n June 17\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Palace of Lost Virture \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anthea Hodgson \n \n Anthea will be in conversation with local author  A J Lyndon \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n At its core\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a story of female friendship and resilience. \n \n Blending real historical events with beautifully written fiction\, the novel shines a light on overlooked chapters of Australian history. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Marigold is a devout Christian working with her mother to save the local women from a life dedicated to sex work. Pansy is one of those sex workers and the owner of Pansy Arlington’s Palace of Pleasure. When the women’s paths cross\, what ensues is an extraordinary friendship\, a shocking murder trial and a history that gives voice to the lives of the remarkable women who lived and died in the goldfields. \n \n Set in Kalgoorlie between 1898 and 1926\, this intimate story of female friendship is drawn from Western Australia’s dark past and real history. Inspired by the real-life murders of policemen Alexander Pitman and John Walsh\, this novel threads a brutal act of violence through its narrative. As the investigation unfolds\, questions of guilt\, justice and truth become increasingly blurred. \n \n The character of Pansy Arlington and the Women’s Christian Temperance Union are also based on real people and movements from the Kalgoorlie area. For around 90 years\, Kalgoorlie employed a system called “containment” whereby prostitution was illegal\, but brothels could operate if they abided by specific rules. The hidden history of women living on the margins and in the “containment” system exposes the hypocrisy and control embedded in society’s treatment of so-called “fallen” women. In The Palace of Lost Virtue\, Anthea challenges the rigid ideas of good and bad women. \n \n \n \n At its core\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a story of female friendship and resilience. Amongst hardship\, isolation and crime\, the bond between Pansy and Marigold becomes a source of strength and survival. Their relationship offers a moving exploration of loyalty and compassion in a world that both divides and judges them. \n \n Blending real historical events with beautifully written fiction\, the novel shines a light on overlooked chapters of Australian history. Fromthe lives of sex workers to infamous murders\, Anthea Hodgson brings depth and voice to stories long ignored. With its combination ofemotional intensity and historical insight\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a powerful story of violence\, loss and enduring love. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anthea Hodgson is a country girl from the WA Wheatbelt. She worked as a radio producer in WA\, NSW and Queensland before returning to WA\, where she lives with her husband and two children. She is the author of The Drifter\, The Cowgirl and the highly acclaimed 2023historical novel based on the Bangka Island Massacre\, The War Nurses. She is co-host of the Rachael Johns Book Club on facebook and the podcast Reading Between Deadlines. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About host A J Lyndon \n \n \n \n \n \n I have a long standing interest in history\, particularly the English Civil Wars of the 17th century. In 2014 I started writing a novel about the “War Without an enemy” as it was described by an army commander in 1643. The Welsh Linnet was published in 2017. The sequel of which is The Tawny Sash. My short stories have been published in a number of literary journals and anthologies. Despite being Australian I keep in regular contact with historical experts in the UK who patiently answer questions on every aspect of 17th century life on and off the battlefield. I am married with two children and a very spoiled dog. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/rachael-johns/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Fundraiser,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/sq-promo-rachael-johns.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251105T191500 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251105T200000 DTSTAMP:20251021T035952Z CREATED:20250812T054350Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251021T035952Z UID:66822-1762370100-1762372800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Stella Day Out Ballarat | Samah Sabawi 'Cactus Pear For My Beloved' in conversation with Fatima Measham DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Anthea Hodgson \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n June 17\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Palace of Lost Virture \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anthea Hodgson \n \n Anthea will be in conversation with local author  A J Lyndon \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n At its core\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a story of female friendship and resilience. \n \n Blending real historical events with beautifully written fiction\, the novel shines a light on overlooked chapters of Australian history. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Marigold is a devout Christian working with her mother to save the local women from a life dedicated to sex work. Pansy is one of those sex workers and the owner of Pansy Arlington’s Palace of Pleasure. When the women’s paths cross\, what ensues is an extraordinary friendship\, a shocking murder trial and a history that gives voice to the lives of the remarkable women who lived and died in the goldfields. \n \n Set in Kalgoorlie between 1898 and 1926\, this intimate story of female friendship is drawn from Western Australia’s dark past and real history. Inspired by the real-life murders of policemen Alexander Pitman and John Walsh\, this novel threads a brutal act of violence through its narrative. As the investigation unfolds\, questions of guilt\, justice and truth become increasingly blurred. \n \n The character of Pansy Arlington and the Women’s Christian Temperance Union are also based on real people and movements from the Kalgoorlie area. For around 90 years\, Kalgoorlie employed a system called “containment” whereby prostitution was illegal\, but brothels could operate if they abided by specific rules. The hidden history of women living on the margins and in the “containment” system exposes the hypocrisy and control embedded in society’s treatment of so-called “fallen” women. In The Palace of Lost Virtue\, Anthea challenges the rigid ideas of good and bad women. \n \n \n \n At its core\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a story of female friendship and resilience. Amongst hardship\, isolation and crime\, the bond between Pansy and Marigold becomes a source of strength and survival. Their relationship offers a moving exploration of loyalty and compassion in a world that both divides and judges them. \n \n Blending real historical events with beautifully written fiction\, the novel shines a light on overlooked chapters of Australian history. Fromthe lives of sex workers to infamous murders\, Anthea Hodgson brings depth and voice to stories long ignored. With its combination ofemotional intensity and historical insight\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a powerful story of violence\, loss and enduring love. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anthea Hodgson is a country girl from the WA Wheatbelt. She worked as a radio producer in WA\, NSW and Queensland before returning to WA\, where she lives with her husband and two children. She is the author of The Drifter\, The Cowgirl and the highly acclaimed 2023historical novel based on the Bangka Island Massacre\, The War Nurses. She is co-host of the Rachael Johns Book Club on facebook and the podcast Reading Between Deadlines. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About host A J Lyndon \n \n \n \n \n \n I have a long standing interest in history\, particularly the English Civil Wars of the 17th century. In 2014 I started writing a novel about the “War Without an enemy” as it was described by an army commander in 1643. The Welsh Linnet was published in 2017. The sequel of which is The Tawny Sash. My short stories have been published in a number of literary journals and anthologies. Despite being Australian I keep in regular contact with historical experts in the UK who patiently answer questions on every aspect of 17th century life on and off the battlefield. I am married with two children and a very spoiled dog. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/stella-day-out-samah-sabawi/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Important Dates,Library,Stella Day Out ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/square-promo-samah.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251105T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251105T184500 DTSTAMP:20251021T040122Z CREATED:20250812T005546Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251021T040122Z UID:66788-1762365600-1762368300@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Stella Day Out Ballarat | Katia Ariel 'The Swift Dark Tide' in conversation with Kelly Gardiner DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Anthea Hodgson \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n June 17\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Palace of Lost Virture \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anthea Hodgson \n \n Anthea will be in conversation with local author  A J Lyndon \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n At its core\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a story of female friendship and resilience. \n \n Blending real historical events with beautifully written fiction\, the novel shines a light on overlooked chapters of Australian history. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Marigold is a devout Christian working with her mother to save the local women from a life dedicated to sex work. Pansy is one of those sex workers and the owner of Pansy Arlington’s Palace of Pleasure. When the women’s paths cross\, what ensues is an extraordinary friendship\, a shocking murder trial and a history that gives voice to the lives of the remarkable women who lived and died in the goldfields. \n \n Set in Kalgoorlie between 1898 and 1926\, this intimate story of female friendship is drawn from Western Australia’s dark past and real history. Inspired by the real-life murders of policemen Alexander Pitman and John Walsh\, this novel threads a brutal act of violence through its narrative. As the investigation unfolds\, questions of guilt\, justice and truth become increasingly blurred. \n \n The character of Pansy Arlington and the Women’s Christian Temperance Union are also based on real people and movements from the Kalgoorlie area. For around 90 years\, Kalgoorlie employed a system called “containment” whereby prostitution was illegal\, but brothels could operate if they abided by specific rules. The hidden history of women living on the margins and in the “containment” system exposes the hypocrisy and control embedded in society’s treatment of so-called “fallen” women. In The Palace of Lost Virtue\, Anthea challenges the rigid ideas of good and bad women. \n \n \n \n At its core\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a story of female friendship and resilience. Amongst hardship\, isolation and crime\, the bond between Pansy and Marigold becomes a source of strength and survival. Their relationship offers a moving exploration of loyalty and compassion in a world that both divides and judges them. \n \n Blending real historical events with beautifully written fiction\, the novel shines a light on overlooked chapters of Australian history. Fromthe lives of sex workers to infamous murders\, Anthea Hodgson brings depth and voice to stories long ignored. With its combination ofemotional intensity and historical insight\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a powerful story of violence\, loss and enduring love. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anthea Hodgson is a country girl from the WA Wheatbelt. She worked as a radio producer in WA\, NSW and Queensland before returning to WA\, where she lives with her husband and two children. She is the author of The Drifter\, The Cowgirl and the highly acclaimed 2023historical novel based on the Bangka Island Massacre\, The War Nurses. She is co-host of the Rachael Johns Book Club on facebook and the podcast Reading Between Deadlines. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About host A J Lyndon \n \n \n \n \n \n I have a long standing interest in history\, particularly the English Civil Wars of the 17th century. In 2014 I started writing a novel about the “War Without an enemy” as it was described by an army commander in 1643. The Welsh Linnet was published in 2017. The sequel of which is The Tawny Sash. My short stories have been published in a number of literary journals and anthologies. Despite being Australian I keep in regular contact with historical experts in the UK who patiently answer questions on every aspect of 17th century life on and off the battlefield. I am married with two children and a very spoiled dog. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/stella-day-out-katia-ariel/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Important Dates,Library,Stella Day Out ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/square-promo-katia.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251021T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251021T193000 DTSTAMP:20251020T045545Z CREATED:20250919T003912Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251020T045545Z UID:67443-1761069600-1761075000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with J Mary Masters *This event has now been CANCELLED* DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Anthea Hodgson \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n June 17\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Palace of Lost Virture \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anthea Hodgson \n \n Anthea will be in conversation with local author  A J Lyndon \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n At its core\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a story of female friendship and resilience. \n \n Blending real historical events with beautifully written fiction\, the novel shines a light on overlooked chapters of Australian history. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Marigold is a devout Christian working with her mother to save the local women from a life dedicated to sex work. Pansy is one of those sex workers and the owner of Pansy Arlington’s Palace of Pleasure. When the women’s paths cross\, what ensues is an extraordinary friendship\, a shocking murder trial and a history that gives voice to the lives of the remarkable women who lived and died in the goldfields. \n \n Set in Kalgoorlie between 1898 and 1926\, this intimate story of female friendship is drawn from Western Australia’s dark past and real history. Inspired by the real-life murders of policemen Alexander Pitman and John Walsh\, this novel threads a brutal act of violence through its narrative. As the investigation unfolds\, questions of guilt\, justice and truth become increasingly blurred. \n \n The character of Pansy Arlington and the Women’s Christian Temperance Union are also based on real people and movements from the Kalgoorlie area. For around 90 years\, Kalgoorlie employed a system called “containment” whereby prostitution was illegal\, but brothels could operate if they abided by specific rules. The hidden history of women living on the margins and in the “containment” system exposes the hypocrisy and control embedded in society’s treatment of so-called “fallen” women. In The Palace of Lost Virtue\, Anthea challenges the rigid ideas of good and bad women. \n \n \n \n At its core\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a story of female friendship and resilience. Amongst hardship\, isolation and crime\, the bond between Pansy and Marigold becomes a source of strength and survival. Their relationship offers a moving exploration of loyalty and compassion in a world that both divides and judges them. \n \n Blending real historical events with beautifully written fiction\, the novel shines a light on overlooked chapters of Australian history. Fromthe lives of sex workers to infamous murders\, Anthea Hodgson brings depth and voice to stories long ignored. With its combination ofemotional intensity and historical insight\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a powerful story of violence\, loss and enduring love. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anthea Hodgson is a country girl from the WA Wheatbelt. She worked as a radio producer in WA\, NSW and Queensland before returning to WA\, where she lives with her husband and two children. She is the author of The Drifter\, The Cowgirl and the highly acclaimed 2023historical novel based on the Bangka Island Massacre\, The War Nurses. She is co-host of the Rachael Johns Book Club on facebook and the podcast Reading Between Deadlines. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About host A J Lyndon \n \n \n \n \n \n I have a long standing interest in history\, particularly the English Civil Wars of the 17th century. In 2014 I started writing a novel about the “War Without an enemy” as it was described by an army commander in 1643. The Welsh Linnet was published in 2017. The sequel of which is The Tawny Sash. My short stories have been published in a number of literary journals and anthologies. Despite being Australian I keep in regular contact with historical experts in the UK who patiently answer questions on every aspect of 17th century life on and off the battlefield. I am married with two children and a very spoiled dog. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/j-mary-masters/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Fundraiser,Library,Victorian Seniors Festival ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/sq-promo-judith-final.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251001T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251001T193000 DTSTAMP:20250905T043730Z CREATED:20250708T020553Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250905T043730Z UID:66044-1759341600-1759347000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with Rozzi Bazzani DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Anthea Hodgson \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n June 17\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Palace of Lost Virture \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anthea Hodgson \n \n Anthea will be in conversation with local author  A J Lyndon \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n At its core\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a story of female friendship and resilience. \n \n Blending real historical events with beautifully written fiction\, the novel shines a light on overlooked chapters of Australian history. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Marigold is a devout Christian working with her mother to save the local women from a life dedicated to sex work. Pansy is one of those sex workers and the owner of Pansy Arlington’s Palace of Pleasure. When the women’s paths cross\, what ensues is an extraordinary friendship\, a shocking murder trial and a history that gives voice to the lives of the remarkable women who lived and died in the goldfields. \n \n Set in Kalgoorlie between 1898 and 1926\, this intimate story of female friendship is drawn from Western Australia’s dark past and real history. Inspired by the real-life murders of policemen Alexander Pitman and John Walsh\, this novel threads a brutal act of violence through its narrative. As the investigation unfolds\, questions of guilt\, justice and truth become increasingly blurred. \n \n The character of Pansy Arlington and the Women’s Christian Temperance Union are also based on real people and movements from the Kalgoorlie area. For around 90 years\, Kalgoorlie employed a system called “containment” whereby prostitution was illegal\, but brothels could operate if they abided by specific rules. The hidden history of women living on the margins and in the “containment” system exposes the hypocrisy and control embedded in society’s treatment of so-called “fallen” women. In The Palace of Lost Virtue\, Anthea challenges the rigid ideas of good and bad women. \n \n \n \n At its core\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a story of female friendship and resilience. Amongst hardship\, isolation and crime\, the bond between Pansy and Marigold becomes a source of strength and survival. Their relationship offers a moving exploration of loyalty and compassion in a world that both divides and judges them. \n \n Blending real historical events with beautifully written fiction\, the novel shines a light on overlooked chapters of Australian history. Fromthe lives of sex workers to infamous murders\, Anthea Hodgson brings depth and voice to stories long ignored. With its combination ofemotional intensity and historical insight\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a powerful story of violence\, loss and enduring love. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anthea Hodgson is a country girl from the WA Wheatbelt. She worked as a radio producer in WA\, NSW and Queensland before returning to WA\, where she lives with her husband and two children. She is the author of The Drifter\, The Cowgirl and the highly acclaimed 2023historical novel based on the Bangka Island Massacre\, The War Nurses. She is co-host of the Rachael Johns Book Club on facebook and the podcast Reading Between Deadlines. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About host A J Lyndon \n \n \n \n \n \n I have a long standing interest in history\, particularly the English Civil Wars of the 17th century. In 2014 I started writing a novel about the “War Without an enemy” as it was described by an army commander in 1643. The Welsh Linnet was published in 2017. The sequel of which is The Tawny Sash. My short stories have been published in a number of literary journals and anthologies. Despite being Australian I keep in regular contact with historical experts in the UK who patiently answer questions on every aspect of 17th century life on and off the battlefield. I am married with two children and a very spoiled dog. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/rozzi-bazzani/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Fundraiser,Library,Victorian Seniors Festival ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/sq-promo-rozzi-final-1.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250925T183000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250925T200000 DTSTAMP:20250813T002121Z CREATED:20250611T003027Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250813T002121Z UID:65587-1758825000-1758830400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with Paula Gleeson DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Anthea Hodgson \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n June 17\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Palace of Lost Virture \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anthea Hodgson \n \n Anthea will be in conversation with local author  A J Lyndon \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n At its core\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a story of female friendship and resilience. \n \n Blending real historical events with beautifully written fiction\, the novel shines a light on overlooked chapters of Australian history. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Marigold is a devout Christian working with her mother to save the local women from a life dedicated to sex work. Pansy is one of those sex workers and the owner of Pansy Arlington’s Palace of Pleasure. When the women’s paths cross\, what ensues is an extraordinary friendship\, a shocking murder trial and a history that gives voice to the lives of the remarkable women who lived and died in the goldfields. \n \n Set in Kalgoorlie between 1898 and 1926\, this intimate story of female friendship is drawn from Western Australia’s dark past and real history. Inspired by the real-life murders of policemen Alexander Pitman and John Walsh\, this novel threads a brutal act of violence through its narrative. As the investigation unfolds\, questions of guilt\, justice and truth become increasingly blurred. \n \n The character of Pansy Arlington and the Women’s Christian Temperance Union are also based on real people and movements from the Kalgoorlie area. For around 90 years\, Kalgoorlie employed a system called “containment” whereby prostitution was illegal\, but brothels could operate if they abided by specific rules. The hidden history of women living on the margins and in the “containment” system exposes the hypocrisy and control embedded in society’s treatment of so-called “fallen” women. In The Palace of Lost Virtue\, Anthea challenges the rigid ideas of good and bad women. \n \n \n \n At its core\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a story of female friendship and resilience. Amongst hardship\, isolation and crime\, the bond between Pansy and Marigold becomes a source of strength and survival. Their relationship offers a moving exploration of loyalty and compassion in a world that both divides and judges them. \n \n Blending real historical events with beautifully written fiction\, the novel shines a light on overlooked chapters of Australian history. Fromthe lives of sex workers to infamous murders\, Anthea Hodgson brings depth and voice to stories long ignored. With its combination ofemotional intensity and historical insight\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a powerful story of violence\, loss and enduring love. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anthea Hodgson is a country girl from the WA Wheatbelt. She worked as a radio producer in WA\, NSW and Queensland before returning to WA\, where she lives with her husband and two children. She is the author of The Drifter\, The Cowgirl and the highly acclaimed 2023historical novel based on the Bangka Island Massacre\, The War Nurses. She is co-host of the Rachael Johns Book Club on facebook and the podcast Reading Between Deadlines. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About host A J Lyndon \n \n \n \n \n \n I have a long standing interest in history\, particularly the English Civil Wars of the 17th century. In 2014 I started writing a novel about the “War Without an enemy” as it was described by an army commander in 1643. The Welsh Linnet was published in 2017. The sequel of which is The Tawny Sash. My short stories have been published in a number of literary journals and anthologies. Despite being Australian I keep in regular contact with historical experts in the UK who patiently answer questions on every aspect of 17th century life on and off the battlefield. I am married with two children and a very spoiled dog. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/paula-gleeson/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Fundraiser,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/sq-promo-paula-gleeson.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250918T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250918T193000 DTSTAMP:20250813T001953Z CREATED:20250611T030703Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250813T001953Z UID:65608-1758218400-1758223800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with Chrissie Bellbrae DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Anthea Hodgson \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n June 17\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Palace of Lost Virture \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anthea Hodgson \n \n Anthea will be in conversation with local author  A J Lyndon \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n At its core\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a story of female friendship and resilience. \n \n Blending real historical events with beautifully written fiction\, the novel shines a light on overlooked chapters of Australian history. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Marigold is a devout Christian working with her mother to save the local women from a life dedicated to sex work. Pansy is one of those sex workers and the owner of Pansy Arlington’s Palace of Pleasure. When the women’s paths cross\, what ensues is an extraordinary friendship\, a shocking murder trial and a history that gives voice to the lives of the remarkable women who lived and died in the goldfields. \n \n Set in Kalgoorlie between 1898 and 1926\, this intimate story of female friendship is drawn from Western Australia’s dark past and real history. Inspired by the real-life murders of policemen Alexander Pitman and John Walsh\, this novel threads a brutal act of violence through its narrative. As the investigation unfolds\, questions of guilt\, justice and truth become increasingly blurred. \n \n The character of Pansy Arlington and the Women’s Christian Temperance Union are also based on real people and movements from the Kalgoorlie area. For around 90 years\, Kalgoorlie employed a system called “containment” whereby prostitution was illegal\, but brothels could operate if they abided by specific rules. The hidden history of women living on the margins and in the “containment” system exposes the hypocrisy and control embedded in society’s treatment of so-called “fallen” women. In The Palace of Lost Virtue\, Anthea challenges the rigid ideas of good and bad women. \n \n \n \n At its core\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a story of female friendship and resilience. Amongst hardship\, isolation and crime\, the bond between Pansy and Marigold becomes a source of strength and survival. Their relationship offers a moving exploration of loyalty and compassion in a world that both divides and judges them. \n \n Blending real historical events with beautifully written fiction\, the novel shines a light on overlooked chapters of Australian history. Fromthe lives of sex workers to infamous murders\, Anthea Hodgson brings depth and voice to stories long ignored. With its combination ofemotional intensity and historical insight\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a powerful story of violence\, loss and enduring love. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anthea Hodgson is a country girl from the WA Wheatbelt. She worked as a radio producer in WA\, NSW and Queensland before returning to WA\, where she lives with her husband and two children. She is the author of The Drifter\, The Cowgirl and the highly acclaimed 2023historical novel based on the Bangka Island Massacre\, The War Nurses. She is co-host of the Rachael Johns Book Club on facebook and the podcast Reading Between Deadlines. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About host A J Lyndon \n \n \n \n \n \n I have a long standing interest in history\, particularly the English Civil Wars of the 17th century. In 2014 I started writing a novel about the “War Without an enemy” as it was described by an army commander in 1643. The Welsh Linnet was published in 2017. The sequel of which is The Tawny Sash. My short stories have been published in a number of literary journals and anthologies. Despite being Australian I keep in regular contact with historical experts in the UK who patiently answer questions on every aspect of 17th century life on and off the battlefield. I am married with two children and a very spoiled dog. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/chrissie-bellbrae/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Fundraiser,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/sq-promo-chrissie-bellbrae.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250917T173000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250917T183000 DTSTAMP:20250826T032241Z CREATED:20250728T041859Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250826T032241Z UID:66377-1758130200-1758133800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Twilight Talks 2025\, Season 3\, Spring Season | Into the Dragon's Den\, The Chinese community in Bendigo DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Anthea Hodgson \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n June 17\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Palace of Lost Virture \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anthea Hodgson \n \n Anthea will be in conversation with local author  A J Lyndon \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n At its core\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a story of female friendship and resilience. \n \n Blending real historical events with beautifully written fiction\, the novel shines a light on overlooked chapters of Australian history. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Marigold is a devout Christian working with her mother to save the local women from a life dedicated to sex work. Pansy is one of those sex workers and the owner of Pansy Arlington’s Palace of Pleasure. When the women’s paths cross\, what ensues is an extraordinary friendship\, a shocking murder trial and a history that gives voice to the lives of the remarkable women who lived and died in the goldfields. \n \n Set in Kalgoorlie between 1898 and 1926\, this intimate story of female friendship is drawn from Western Australia’s dark past and real history. Inspired by the real-life murders of policemen Alexander Pitman and John Walsh\, this novel threads a brutal act of violence through its narrative. As the investigation unfolds\, questions of guilt\, justice and truth become increasingly blurred. \n \n The character of Pansy Arlington and the Women’s Christian Temperance Union are also based on real people and movements from the Kalgoorlie area. For around 90 years\, Kalgoorlie employed a system called “containment” whereby prostitution was illegal\, but brothels could operate if they abided by specific rules. The hidden history of women living on the margins and in the “containment” system exposes the hypocrisy and control embedded in society’s treatment of so-called “fallen” women. In The Palace of Lost Virtue\, Anthea challenges the rigid ideas of good and bad women. \n \n \n \n At its core\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a story of female friendship and resilience. Amongst hardship\, isolation and crime\, the bond between Pansy and Marigold becomes a source of strength and survival. Their relationship offers a moving exploration of loyalty and compassion in a world that both divides and judges them. \n \n Blending real historical events with beautifully written fiction\, the novel shines a light on overlooked chapters of Australian history. Fromthe lives of sex workers to infamous murders\, Anthea Hodgson brings depth and voice to stories long ignored. With its combination ofemotional intensity and historical insight\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a powerful story of violence\, loss and enduring love. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anthea Hodgson is a country girl from the WA Wheatbelt. She worked as a radio producer in WA\, NSW and Queensland before returning to WA\, where she lives with her husband and two children. She is the author of The Drifter\, The Cowgirl and the highly acclaimed 2023historical novel based on the Bangka Island Massacre\, The War Nurses. She is co-host of the Rachael Johns Book Club on facebook and the podcast Reading Between Deadlines. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About host A J Lyndon \n \n \n \n \n \n I have a long standing interest in history\, particularly the English Civil Wars of the 17th century. In 2014 I started writing a novel about the “War Without an enemy” as it was described by an army commander in 1643. The Welsh Linnet was published in 2017. The sequel of which is The Tawny Sash. My short stories have been published in a number of literary journals and anthologies. Despite being Australian I keep in regular contact with historical experts in the UK who patiently answer questions on every aspect of 17th century life on and off the battlefield. I am married with two children and a very spoiled dog. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/twilight-talks-saving-dragons/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Fundraiser,Important Dates,Library,Members,Talk,Twilight Talks ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/square-promo-20252.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250904T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250904T190000 DTSTAMP:20250826T233613Z CREATED:20250603T000019Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250826T233613Z UID:64998-1757008800-1757012400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Tracey Lee Holmes: A Life Through Sport DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Anthea Hodgson \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n June 17\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Palace of Lost Virture \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anthea Hodgson \n \n Anthea will be in conversation with local author  A J Lyndon \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n At its core\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a story of female friendship and resilience. \n \n Blending real historical events with beautifully written fiction\, the novel shines a light on overlooked chapters of Australian history. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Marigold is a devout Christian working with her mother to save the local women from a life dedicated to sex work. Pansy is one of those sex workers and the owner of Pansy Arlington’s Palace of Pleasure. When the women’s paths cross\, what ensues is an extraordinary friendship\, a shocking murder trial and a history that gives voice to the lives of the remarkable women who lived and died in the goldfields. \n \n Set in Kalgoorlie between 1898 and 1926\, this intimate story of female friendship is drawn from Western Australia’s dark past and real history. Inspired by the real-life murders of policemen Alexander Pitman and John Walsh\, this novel threads a brutal act of violence through its narrative. As the investigation unfolds\, questions of guilt\, justice and truth become increasingly blurred. \n \n The character of Pansy Arlington and the Women’s Christian Temperance Union are also based on real people and movements from the Kalgoorlie area. For around 90 years\, Kalgoorlie employed a system called “containment” whereby prostitution was illegal\, but brothels could operate if they abided by specific rules. The hidden history of women living on the margins and in the “containment” system exposes the hypocrisy and control embedded in society’s treatment of so-called “fallen” women. In The Palace of Lost Virtue\, Anthea challenges the rigid ideas of good and bad women. \n \n \n \n At its core\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a story of female friendship and resilience. Amongst hardship\, isolation and crime\, the bond between Pansy and Marigold becomes a source of strength and survival. Their relationship offers a moving exploration of loyalty and compassion in a world that both divides and judges them. \n \n Blending real historical events with beautifully written fiction\, the novel shines a light on overlooked chapters of Australian history. Fromthe lives of sex workers to infamous murders\, Anthea Hodgson brings depth and voice to stories long ignored. With its combination ofemotional intensity and historical insight\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a powerful story of violence\, loss and enduring love. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anthea Hodgson is a country girl from the WA Wheatbelt. She worked as a radio producer in WA\, NSW and Queensland before returning to WA\, where she lives with her husband and two children. She is the author of The Drifter\, The Cowgirl and the highly acclaimed 2023historical novel based on the Bangka Island Massacre\, The War Nurses. She is co-host of the Rachael Johns Book Club on facebook and the podcast Reading Between Deadlines. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About host A J Lyndon \n \n \n \n \n \n I have a long standing interest in history\, particularly the English Civil Wars of the 17th century. In 2014 I started writing a novel about the “War Without an enemy” as it was described by an army commander in 1643. The Welsh Linnet was published in 2017. The sequel of which is The Tawny Sash. My short stories have been published in a number of literary journals and anthologies. Despite being Australian I keep in regular contact with historical experts in the UK who patiently answer questions on every aspect of 17th century life on and off the battlefield. I am married with two children and a very spoiled dog. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/bmi-twc-tracey-lee-holmes/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Culture,Fundraiser,Important Dates,Talk ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/sq-promo-tracey-holmes-v4.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250901T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250901T193000 DTSTAMP:20250813T001637Z CREATED:20250711T023001Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250813T001637Z UID:66163-1756749600-1756755000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with Gabriel Bergmoser DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Anthea Hodgson \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n June 17\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Palace of Lost Virture \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anthea Hodgson \n \n Anthea will be in conversation with local author  A J Lyndon \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n At its core\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a story of female friendship and resilience. \n \n Blending real historical events with beautifully written fiction\, the novel shines a light on overlooked chapters of Australian history. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Marigold is a devout Christian working with her mother to save the local women from a life dedicated to sex work. Pansy is one of those sex workers and the owner of Pansy Arlington’s Palace of Pleasure. When the women’s paths cross\, what ensues is an extraordinary friendship\, a shocking murder trial and a history that gives voice to the lives of the remarkable women who lived and died in the goldfields. \n \n Set in Kalgoorlie between 1898 and 1926\, this intimate story of female friendship is drawn from Western Australia’s dark past and real history. Inspired by the real-life murders of policemen Alexander Pitman and John Walsh\, this novel threads a brutal act of violence through its narrative. As the investigation unfolds\, questions of guilt\, justice and truth become increasingly blurred. \n \n The character of Pansy Arlington and the Women’s Christian Temperance Union are also based on real people and movements from the Kalgoorlie area. For around 90 years\, Kalgoorlie employed a system called “containment” whereby prostitution was illegal\, but brothels could operate if they abided by specific rules. The hidden history of women living on the margins and in the “containment” system exposes the hypocrisy and control embedded in society’s treatment of so-called “fallen” women. In The Palace of Lost Virtue\, Anthea challenges the rigid ideas of good and bad women. \n \n \n \n At its core\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a story of female friendship and resilience. Amongst hardship\, isolation and crime\, the bond between Pansy and Marigold becomes a source of strength and survival. Their relationship offers a moving exploration of loyalty and compassion in a world that both divides and judges them. \n \n Blending real historical events with beautifully written fiction\, the novel shines a light on overlooked chapters of Australian history. Fromthe lives of sex workers to infamous murders\, Anthea Hodgson brings depth and voice to stories long ignored. With its combination ofemotional intensity and historical insight\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a powerful story of violence\, loss and enduring love. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anthea Hodgson is a country girl from the WA Wheatbelt. She worked as a radio producer in WA\, NSW and Queensland before returning to WA\, where she lives with her husband and two children. She is the author of The Drifter\, The Cowgirl and the highly acclaimed 2023historical novel based on the Bangka Island Massacre\, The War Nurses. She is co-host of the Rachael Johns Book Club on facebook and the podcast Reading Between Deadlines. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About host A J Lyndon \n \n \n \n \n \n I have a long standing interest in history\, particularly the English Civil Wars of the 17th century. In 2014 I started writing a novel about the “War Without an enemy” as it was described by an army commander in 1643. The Welsh Linnet was published in 2017. The sequel of which is The Tawny Sash. My short stories have been published in a number of literary journals and anthologies. Despite being Australian I keep in regular contact with historical experts in the UK who patiently answer questions on every aspect of 17th century life on and off the battlefield. I am married with two children and a very spoiled dog. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/gabriel-bergmoser/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Fundraiser,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/gabriel-bergmoser-sq-promo.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250823T140000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250823T170000 DTSTAMP:20250715T044101Z CREATED:20250714T045240Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250715T044101Z UID:66222-1755957600-1755968400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Laura J Fitzwilson\, Book Launch - The Fool DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Anthea Hodgson \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n June 17\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Palace of Lost Virture \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anthea Hodgson \n \n Anthea will be in conversation with local author  A J Lyndon \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n At its core\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a story of female friendship and resilience. \n \n Blending real historical events with beautifully written fiction\, the novel shines a light on overlooked chapters of Australian history. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Marigold is a devout Christian working with her mother to save the local women from a life dedicated to sex work. Pansy is one of those sex workers and the owner of Pansy Arlington’s Palace of Pleasure. When the women’s paths cross\, what ensues is an extraordinary friendship\, a shocking murder trial and a history that gives voice to the lives of the remarkable women who lived and died in the goldfields. \n \n Set in Kalgoorlie between 1898 and 1926\, this intimate story of female friendship is drawn from Western Australia’s dark past and real history. Inspired by the real-life murders of policemen Alexander Pitman and John Walsh\, this novel threads a brutal act of violence through its narrative. As the investigation unfolds\, questions of guilt\, justice and truth become increasingly blurred. \n \n The character of Pansy Arlington and the Women’s Christian Temperance Union are also based on real people and movements from the Kalgoorlie area. For around 90 years\, Kalgoorlie employed a system called “containment” whereby prostitution was illegal\, but brothels could operate if they abided by specific rules. The hidden history of women living on the margins and in the “containment” system exposes the hypocrisy and control embedded in society’s treatment of so-called “fallen” women. In The Palace of Lost Virtue\, Anthea challenges the rigid ideas of good and bad women. \n \n \n \n At its core\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a story of female friendship and resilience. Amongst hardship\, isolation and crime\, the bond between Pansy and Marigold becomes a source of strength and survival. Their relationship offers a moving exploration of loyalty and compassion in a world that both divides and judges them. \n \n Blending real historical events with beautifully written fiction\, the novel shines a light on overlooked chapters of Australian history. Fromthe lives of sex workers to infamous murders\, Anthea Hodgson brings depth and voice to stories long ignored. With its combination ofemotional intensity and historical insight\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a powerful story of violence\, loss and enduring love. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anthea Hodgson is a country girl from the WA Wheatbelt. She worked as a radio producer in WA\, NSW and Queensland before returning to WA\, where she lives with her husband and two children. She is the author of The Drifter\, The Cowgirl and the highly acclaimed 2023historical novel based on the Bangka Island Massacre\, The War Nurses. She is co-host of the Rachael Johns Book Club on facebook and the podcast Reading Between Deadlines. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About host A J Lyndon \n \n \n \n \n \n I have a long standing interest in history\, particularly the English Civil Wars of the 17th century. In 2014 I started writing a novel about the “War Without an enemy” as it was described by an army commander in 1643. The Welsh Linnet was published in 2017. The sequel of which is The Tawny Sash. My short stories have been published in a number of literary journals and anthologies. Despite being Australian I keep in regular contact with historical experts in the UK who patiently answer questions on every aspect of 17th century life on and off the battlefield. I am married with two children and a very spoiled dog. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/laura-j-fitzwilson/ LOCATION:Heritage Reading Room\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/square-promo-laura-l-fitzwilson.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250820T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250820T193000 DTSTAMP:20250813T001437Z CREATED:20250522T034400Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250813T001437Z UID:65063-1755712800-1755718200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with Michael Robotham DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Anthea Hodgson \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n June 17\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Palace of Lost Virture \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anthea Hodgson \n \n Anthea will be in conversation with local author  A J Lyndon \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n At its core\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a story of female friendship and resilience. \n \n Blending real historical events with beautifully written fiction\, the novel shines a light on overlooked chapters of Australian history. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Marigold is a devout Christian working with her mother to save the local women from a life dedicated to sex work. Pansy is one of those sex workers and the owner of Pansy Arlington’s Palace of Pleasure. When the women’s paths cross\, what ensues is an extraordinary friendship\, a shocking murder trial and a history that gives voice to the lives of the remarkable women who lived and died in the goldfields. \n \n Set in Kalgoorlie between 1898 and 1926\, this intimate story of female friendship is drawn from Western Australia’s dark past and real history. Inspired by the real-life murders of policemen Alexander Pitman and John Walsh\, this novel threads a brutal act of violence through its narrative. As the investigation unfolds\, questions of guilt\, justice and truth become increasingly blurred. \n \n The character of Pansy Arlington and the Women’s Christian Temperance Union are also based on real people and movements from the Kalgoorlie area. For around 90 years\, Kalgoorlie employed a system called “containment” whereby prostitution was illegal\, but brothels could operate if they abided by specific rules. The hidden history of women living on the margins and in the “containment” system exposes the hypocrisy and control embedded in society’s treatment of so-called “fallen” women. In The Palace of Lost Virtue\, Anthea challenges the rigid ideas of good and bad women. \n \n \n \n At its core\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a story of female friendship and resilience. Amongst hardship\, isolation and crime\, the bond between Pansy and Marigold becomes a source of strength and survival. Their relationship offers a moving exploration of loyalty and compassion in a world that both divides and judges them. \n \n Blending real historical events with beautifully written fiction\, the novel shines a light on overlooked chapters of Australian history. Fromthe lives of sex workers to infamous murders\, Anthea Hodgson brings depth and voice to stories long ignored. With its combination ofemotional intensity and historical insight\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a powerful story of violence\, loss and enduring love. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anthea Hodgson is a country girl from the WA Wheatbelt. She worked as a radio producer in WA\, NSW and Queensland before returning to WA\, where she lives with her husband and two children. She is the author of The Drifter\, The Cowgirl and the highly acclaimed 2023historical novel based on the Bangka Island Massacre\, The War Nurses. She is co-host of the Rachael Johns Book Club on facebook and the podcast Reading Between Deadlines. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About host A J Lyndon \n \n \n \n \n \n I have a long standing interest in history\, particularly the English Civil Wars of the 17th century. In 2014 I started writing a novel about the “War Without an enemy” as it was described by an army commander in 1643. The Welsh Linnet was published in 2017. The sequel of which is The Tawny Sash. My short stories have been published in a number of literary journals and anthologies. Despite being Australian I keep in regular contact with historical experts in the UK who patiently answer questions on every aspect of 17th century life on and off the battlefield. I am married with two children and a very spoiled dog. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/michael-robotham/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Fundraiser,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/sq-promo-robotham.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250806T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250806T193000 DTSTAMP:20250616T021316Z CREATED:20250527T025831Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250616T021316Z UID:65197-1754503200-1754508600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In conversation with Chloe Adams & Alli Sinclair DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Anthea Hodgson \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n June 17\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Palace of Lost Virture \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anthea Hodgson \n \n Anthea will be in conversation with local author  A J Lyndon \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n At its core\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a story of female friendship and resilience. \n \n Blending real historical events with beautifully written fiction\, the novel shines a light on overlooked chapters of Australian history. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Marigold is a devout Christian working with her mother to save the local women from a life dedicated to sex work. Pansy is one of those sex workers and the owner of Pansy Arlington’s Palace of Pleasure. When the women’s paths cross\, what ensues is an extraordinary friendship\, a shocking murder trial and a history that gives voice to the lives of the remarkable women who lived and died in the goldfields. \n \n Set in Kalgoorlie between 1898 and 1926\, this intimate story of female friendship is drawn from Western Australia’s dark past and real history. Inspired by the real-life murders of policemen Alexander Pitman and John Walsh\, this novel threads a brutal act of violence through its narrative. As the investigation unfolds\, questions of guilt\, justice and truth become increasingly blurred. \n \n The character of Pansy Arlington and the Women’s Christian Temperance Union are also based on real people and movements from the Kalgoorlie area. For around 90 years\, Kalgoorlie employed a system called “containment” whereby prostitution was illegal\, but brothels could operate if they abided by specific rules. The hidden history of women living on the margins and in the “containment” system exposes the hypocrisy and control embedded in society’s treatment of so-called “fallen” women. In The Palace of Lost Virtue\, Anthea challenges the rigid ideas of good and bad women. \n \n \n \n At its core\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a story of female friendship and resilience. Amongst hardship\, isolation and crime\, the bond between Pansy and Marigold becomes a source of strength and survival. Their relationship offers a moving exploration of loyalty and compassion in a world that both divides and judges them. \n \n Blending real historical events with beautifully written fiction\, the novel shines a light on overlooked chapters of Australian history. Fromthe lives of sex workers to infamous murders\, Anthea Hodgson brings depth and voice to stories long ignored. With its combination ofemotional intensity and historical insight\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a powerful story of violence\, loss and enduring love. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anthea Hodgson is a country girl from the WA Wheatbelt. She worked as a radio producer in WA\, NSW and Queensland before returning to WA\, where she lives with her husband and two children. She is the author of The Drifter\, The Cowgirl and the highly acclaimed 2023historical novel based on the Bangka Island Massacre\, The War Nurses. She is co-host of the Rachael Johns Book Club on facebook and the podcast Reading Between Deadlines. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About host A J Lyndon \n \n \n \n \n \n I have a long standing interest in history\, particularly the English Civil Wars of the 17th century. In 2014 I started writing a novel about the “War Without an enemy” as it was described by an army commander in 1643. The Welsh Linnet was published in 2017. The sequel of which is The Tawny Sash. My short stories have been published in a number of literary journals and anthologies. Despite being Australian I keep in regular contact with historical experts in the UK who patiently answer questions on every aspect of 17th century life on and off the battlefield. I am married with two children and a very spoiled dog. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/chloe-adams-alli-sinclair/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Ballarat Winter Festival,Fundraiser,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/sq-promo-chloe-and-alli-v2.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250716T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250716T193000 DTSTAMP:20250714T011514Z CREATED:20250604T015536Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250714T011514Z UID:65475-1752688800-1752694200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with Irma Gold | This event has now been CANCELLED due to low ticket sales DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Anthea Hodgson \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n June 17\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Palace of Lost Virture \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anthea Hodgson \n \n Anthea will be in conversation with local author  A J Lyndon \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n At its core\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a story of female friendship and resilience. \n \n Blending real historical events with beautifully written fiction\, the novel shines a light on overlooked chapters of Australian history. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Marigold is a devout Christian working with her mother to save the local women from a life dedicated to sex work. Pansy is one of those sex workers and the owner of Pansy Arlington’s Palace of Pleasure. When the women’s paths cross\, what ensues is an extraordinary friendship\, a shocking murder trial and a history that gives voice to the lives of the remarkable women who lived and died in the goldfields. \n \n Set in Kalgoorlie between 1898 and 1926\, this intimate story of female friendship is drawn from Western Australia’s dark past and real history. Inspired by the real-life murders of policemen Alexander Pitman and John Walsh\, this novel threads a brutal act of violence through its narrative. As the investigation unfolds\, questions of guilt\, justice and truth become increasingly blurred. \n \n The character of Pansy Arlington and the Women’s Christian Temperance Union are also based on real people and movements from the Kalgoorlie area. For around 90 years\, Kalgoorlie employed a system called “containment” whereby prostitution was illegal\, but brothels could operate if they abided by specific rules. The hidden history of women living on the margins and in the “containment” system exposes the hypocrisy and control embedded in society’s treatment of so-called “fallen” women. In The Palace of Lost Virtue\, Anthea challenges the rigid ideas of good and bad women. \n \n \n \n At its core\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a story of female friendship and resilience. Amongst hardship\, isolation and crime\, the bond between Pansy and Marigold becomes a source of strength and survival. Their relationship offers a moving exploration of loyalty and compassion in a world that both divides and judges them. \n \n Blending real historical events with beautifully written fiction\, the novel shines a light on overlooked chapters of Australian history. Fromthe lives of sex workers to infamous murders\, Anthea Hodgson brings depth and voice to stories long ignored. With its combination ofemotional intensity and historical insight\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a powerful story of violence\, loss and enduring love. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anthea Hodgson is a country girl from the WA Wheatbelt. She worked as a radio producer in WA\, NSW and Queensland before returning to WA\, where she lives with her husband and two children. She is the author of The Drifter\, The Cowgirl and the highly acclaimed 2023historical novel based on the Bangka Island Massacre\, The War Nurses. She is co-host of the Rachael Johns Book Club on facebook and the podcast Reading Between Deadlines. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About host A J Lyndon \n \n \n \n \n \n I have a long standing interest in history\, particularly the English Civil Wars of the 17th century. In 2014 I started writing a novel about the “War Without an enemy” as it was described by an army commander in 1643. The Welsh Linnet was published in 2017. The sequel of which is The Tawny Sash. My short stories have been published in a number of literary journals and anthologies. Despite being Australian I keep in regular contact with historical experts in the UK who patiently answer questions on every aspect of 17th century life on and off the battlefield. I am married with two children and a very spoiled dog. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/irma-gold/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Ballarat Winter Festival,Fundraiser,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/irma-sq-promo.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250709T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250709T193000 DTSTAMP:20250528T004045Z CREATED:20250527T060905Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250528T004045Z UID:65240-1752084000-1752089400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with Matthew Spencer DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Anthea Hodgson \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n June 17\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Palace of Lost Virture \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anthea Hodgson \n \n Anthea will be in conversation with local author  A J Lyndon \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n At its core\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a story of female friendship and resilience. \n \n Blending real historical events with beautifully written fiction\, the novel shines a light on overlooked chapters of Australian history. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Marigold is a devout Christian working with her mother to save the local women from a life dedicated to sex work. Pansy is one of those sex workers and the owner of Pansy Arlington’s Palace of Pleasure. When the women’s paths cross\, what ensues is an extraordinary friendship\, a shocking murder trial and a history that gives voice to the lives of the remarkable women who lived and died in the goldfields. \n \n Set in Kalgoorlie between 1898 and 1926\, this intimate story of female friendship is drawn from Western Australia’s dark past and real history. Inspired by the real-life murders of policemen Alexander Pitman and John Walsh\, this novel threads a brutal act of violence through its narrative. As the investigation unfolds\, questions of guilt\, justice and truth become increasingly blurred. \n \n The character of Pansy Arlington and the Women’s Christian Temperance Union are also based on real people and movements from the Kalgoorlie area. For around 90 years\, Kalgoorlie employed a system called “containment” whereby prostitution was illegal\, but brothels could operate if they abided by specific rules. The hidden history of women living on the margins and in the “containment” system exposes the hypocrisy and control embedded in society’s treatment of so-called “fallen” women. In The Palace of Lost Virtue\, Anthea challenges the rigid ideas of good and bad women. \n \n \n \n At its core\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a story of female friendship and resilience. Amongst hardship\, isolation and crime\, the bond between Pansy and Marigold becomes a source of strength and survival. Their relationship offers a moving exploration of loyalty and compassion in a world that both divides and judges them. \n \n Blending real historical events with beautifully written fiction\, the novel shines a light on overlooked chapters of Australian history. Fromthe lives of sex workers to infamous murders\, Anthea Hodgson brings depth and voice to stories long ignored. With its combination ofemotional intensity and historical insight\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a powerful story of violence\, loss and enduring love. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anthea Hodgson is a country girl from the WA Wheatbelt. She worked as a radio producer in WA\, NSW and Queensland before returning to WA\, where she lives with her husband and two children. She is the author of The Drifter\, The Cowgirl and the highly acclaimed 2023historical novel based on the Bangka Island Massacre\, The War Nurses. She is co-host of the Rachael Johns Book Club on facebook and the podcast Reading Between Deadlines. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About host A J Lyndon \n \n \n \n \n \n I have a long standing interest in history\, particularly the English Civil Wars of the 17th century. In 2014 I started writing a novel about the “War Without an enemy” as it was described by an army commander in 1643. The Welsh Linnet was published in 2017. The sequel of which is The Tawny Sash. My short stories have been published in a number of literary journals and anthologies. Despite being Australian I keep in regular contact with historical experts in the UK who patiently answer questions on every aspect of 17th century life on and off the battlefield. I am married with two children and a very spoiled dog. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/matthew-spencer/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Ballarat Winter Festival,Fundraiser,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/sq-promo-matthew-spencer.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250708T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250708T193000 DTSTAMP:20250707T031118Z CREATED:20250527T041755Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250707T031118Z UID:65216-1751997600-1752003000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Author Talk | Ella Stone - 'Breakfast With You' | Now CANCELLED DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Anthea Hodgson \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n June 17\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Palace of Lost Virture \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anthea Hodgson \n \n Anthea will be in conversation with local author  A J Lyndon \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n At its core\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a story of female friendship and resilience. \n \n Blending real historical events with beautifully written fiction\, the novel shines a light on overlooked chapters of Australian history. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Marigold is a devout Christian working with her mother to save the local women from a life dedicated to sex work. Pansy is one of those sex workers and the owner of Pansy Arlington’s Palace of Pleasure. When the women’s paths cross\, what ensues is an extraordinary friendship\, a shocking murder trial and a history that gives voice to the lives of the remarkable women who lived and died in the goldfields. \n \n Set in Kalgoorlie between 1898 and 1926\, this intimate story of female friendship is drawn from Western Australia’s dark past and real history. Inspired by the real-life murders of policemen Alexander Pitman and John Walsh\, this novel threads a brutal act of violence through its narrative. As the investigation unfolds\, questions of guilt\, justice and truth become increasingly blurred. \n \n The character of Pansy Arlington and the Women’s Christian Temperance Union are also based on real people and movements from the Kalgoorlie area. For around 90 years\, Kalgoorlie employed a system called “containment” whereby prostitution was illegal\, but brothels could operate if they abided by specific rules. The hidden history of women living on the margins and in the “containment” system exposes the hypocrisy and control embedded in society’s treatment of so-called “fallen” women. In The Palace of Lost Virtue\, Anthea challenges the rigid ideas of good and bad women. \n \n \n \n At its core\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a story of female friendship and resilience. Amongst hardship\, isolation and crime\, the bond between Pansy and Marigold becomes a source of strength and survival. Their relationship offers a moving exploration of loyalty and compassion in a world that both divides and judges them. \n \n Blending real historical events with beautifully written fiction\, the novel shines a light on overlooked chapters of Australian history. Fromthe lives of sex workers to infamous murders\, Anthea Hodgson brings depth and voice to stories long ignored. With its combination ofemotional intensity and historical insight\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a powerful story of violence\, loss and enduring love. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anthea Hodgson is a country girl from the WA Wheatbelt. She worked as a radio producer in WA\, NSW and Queensland before returning to WA\, where she lives with her husband and two children. She is the author of The Drifter\, The Cowgirl and the highly acclaimed 2023historical novel based on the Bangka Island Massacre\, The War Nurses. She is co-host of the Rachael Johns Book Club on facebook and the podcast Reading Between Deadlines. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About host A J Lyndon \n \n \n \n \n \n I have a long standing interest in history\, particularly the English Civil Wars of the 17th century. In 2014 I started writing a novel about the “War Without an enemy” as it was described by an army commander in 1643. The Welsh Linnet was published in 2017. The sequel of which is The Tawny Sash. My short stories have been published in a number of literary journals and anthologies. Despite being Australian I keep in regular contact with historical experts in the UK who patiently answer questions on every aspect of 17th century life on and off the battlefield. I am married with two children and a very spoiled dog. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/ella-stone/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Ballarat Winter Festival,Fundraiser,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/sq-promos-davidson-h-t3.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250708T150000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250708T163000 DTSTAMP:20250707T030941Z CREATED:20250523T031147Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250707T030941Z UID:65105-1751986800-1751992200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Author Talk | J.S. Davidson 'Hunted' & 'Tethered' | Now CANCELLED DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Anthea Hodgson \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n June 17\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Palace of Lost Virture \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anthea Hodgson \n \n Anthea will be in conversation with local author  A J Lyndon \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n At its core\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a story of female friendship and resilience. \n \n Blending real historical events with beautifully written fiction\, the novel shines a light on overlooked chapters of Australian history. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Marigold is a devout Christian working with her mother to save the local women from a life dedicated to sex work. Pansy is one of those sex workers and the owner of Pansy Arlington’s Palace of Pleasure. When the women’s paths cross\, what ensues is an extraordinary friendship\, a shocking murder trial and a history that gives voice to the lives of the remarkable women who lived and died in the goldfields. \n \n Set in Kalgoorlie between 1898 and 1926\, this intimate story of female friendship is drawn from Western Australia’s dark past and real history. Inspired by the real-life murders of policemen Alexander Pitman and John Walsh\, this novel threads a brutal act of violence through its narrative. As the investigation unfolds\, questions of guilt\, justice and truth become increasingly blurred. \n \n The character of Pansy Arlington and the Women’s Christian Temperance Union are also based on real people and movements from the Kalgoorlie area. For around 90 years\, Kalgoorlie employed a system called “containment” whereby prostitution was illegal\, but brothels could operate if they abided by specific rules. The hidden history of women living on the margins and in the “containment” system exposes the hypocrisy and control embedded in society’s treatment of so-called “fallen” women. In The Palace of Lost Virtue\, Anthea challenges the rigid ideas of good and bad women. \n \n \n \n At its core\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a story of female friendship and resilience. Amongst hardship\, isolation and crime\, the bond between Pansy and Marigold becomes a source of strength and survival. Their relationship offers a moving exploration of loyalty and compassion in a world that both divides and judges them. \n \n Blending real historical events with beautifully written fiction\, the novel shines a light on overlooked chapters of Australian history. Fromthe lives of sex workers to infamous murders\, Anthea Hodgson brings depth and voice to stories long ignored. With its combination ofemotional intensity and historical insight\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a powerful story of violence\, loss and enduring love. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anthea Hodgson is a country girl from the WA Wheatbelt. She worked as a radio producer in WA\, NSW and Queensland before returning to WA\, where she lives with her husband and two children. She is the author of The Drifter\, The Cowgirl and the highly acclaimed 2023historical novel based on the Bangka Island Massacre\, The War Nurses. She is co-host of the Rachael Johns Book Club on facebook and the podcast Reading Between Deadlines. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About host A J Lyndon \n \n \n \n \n \n I have a long standing interest in history\, particularly the English Civil Wars of the 17th century. In 2014 I started writing a novel about the “War Without an enemy” as it was described by an army commander in 1643. The Welsh Linnet was published in 2017. The sequel of which is The Tawny Sash. My short stories have been published in a number of literary journals and anthologies. Despite being Australian I keep in regular contact with historical experts in the UK who patiently answer questions on every aspect of 17th century life on and off the battlefield. I am married with two children and a very spoiled dog. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/hunted-tethered-davidson/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Ballarat Winter Festival,Fundraiser,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/sq-promos-davidson-h-t.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250625T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250625T193000 DTSTAMP:20250624T020208Z CREATED:20250403T040834Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250624T020208Z UID:64256-1750874400-1750879800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with Kylie Ladd | This event has now been CANCELLED DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Anthea Hodgson \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n June 17\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Palace of Lost Virture \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anthea Hodgson \n \n Anthea will be in conversation with local author  A J Lyndon \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n At its core\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a story of female friendship and resilience. \n \n Blending real historical events with beautifully written fiction\, the novel shines a light on overlooked chapters of Australian history. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Marigold is a devout Christian working with her mother to save the local women from a life dedicated to sex work. Pansy is one of those sex workers and the owner of Pansy Arlington’s Palace of Pleasure. When the women’s paths cross\, what ensues is an extraordinary friendship\, a shocking murder trial and a history that gives voice to the lives of the remarkable women who lived and died in the goldfields. \n \n Set in Kalgoorlie between 1898 and 1926\, this intimate story of female friendship is drawn from Western Australia’s dark past and real history. Inspired by the real-life murders of policemen Alexander Pitman and John Walsh\, this novel threads a brutal act of violence through its narrative. As the investigation unfolds\, questions of guilt\, justice and truth become increasingly blurred. \n \n The character of Pansy Arlington and the Women’s Christian Temperance Union are also based on real people and movements from the Kalgoorlie area. For around 90 years\, Kalgoorlie employed a system called “containment” whereby prostitution was illegal\, but brothels could operate if they abided by specific rules. The hidden history of women living on the margins and in the “containment” system exposes the hypocrisy and control embedded in society’s treatment of so-called “fallen” women. In The Palace of Lost Virtue\, Anthea challenges the rigid ideas of good and bad women. \n \n \n \n At its core\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a story of female friendship and resilience. Amongst hardship\, isolation and crime\, the bond between Pansy and Marigold becomes a source of strength and survival. Their relationship offers a moving exploration of loyalty and compassion in a world that both divides and judges them. \n \n Blending real historical events with beautifully written fiction\, the novel shines a light on overlooked chapters of Australian history. Fromthe lives of sex workers to infamous murders\, Anthea Hodgson brings depth and voice to stories long ignored. With its combination ofemotional intensity and historical insight\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a powerful story of violence\, loss and enduring love. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anthea Hodgson is a country girl from the WA Wheatbelt. She worked as a radio producer in WA\, NSW and Queensland before returning to WA\, where she lives with her husband and two children. She is the author of The Drifter\, The Cowgirl and the highly acclaimed 2023historical novel based on the Bangka Island Massacre\, The War Nurses. She is co-host of the Rachael Johns Book Club on facebook and the podcast Reading Between Deadlines. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About host A J Lyndon \n \n \n \n \n \n I have a long standing interest in history\, particularly the English Civil Wars of the 17th century. In 2014 I started writing a novel about the “War Without an enemy” as it was described by an army commander in 1643. The Welsh Linnet was published in 2017. The sequel of which is The Tawny Sash. My short stories have been published in a number of literary journals and anthologies. Despite being Australian I keep in regular contact with historical experts in the UK who patiently answer questions on every aspect of 17th century life on and off the battlefield. I am married with two children and a very spoiled dog. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/kylie-ladd/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Fundraiser,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/kylie-ladd-promo-v2.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250604T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250604T193000 DTSTAMP:20250324T051907Z CREATED:20250307T025149Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250324T051907Z UID:62519-1749060000-1749065400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with Gail Holmes DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Anthea Hodgson \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n June 17\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Palace of Lost Virture \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anthea Hodgson \n \n Anthea will be in conversation with local author  A J Lyndon \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n At its core\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a story of female friendship and resilience. \n \n Blending real historical events with beautifully written fiction\, the novel shines a light on overlooked chapters of Australian history. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Marigold is a devout Christian working with her mother to save the local women from a life dedicated to sex work. Pansy is one of those sex workers and the owner of Pansy Arlington’s Palace of Pleasure. When the women’s paths cross\, what ensues is an extraordinary friendship\, a shocking murder trial and a history that gives voice to the lives of the remarkable women who lived and died in the goldfields. \n \n Set in Kalgoorlie between 1898 and 1926\, this intimate story of female friendship is drawn from Western Australia’s dark past and real history. Inspired by the real-life murders of policemen Alexander Pitman and John Walsh\, this novel threads a brutal act of violence through its narrative. As the investigation unfolds\, questions of guilt\, justice and truth become increasingly blurred. \n \n The character of Pansy Arlington and the Women’s Christian Temperance Union are also based on real people and movements from the Kalgoorlie area. For around 90 years\, Kalgoorlie employed a system called “containment” whereby prostitution was illegal\, but brothels could operate if they abided by specific rules. The hidden history of women living on the margins and in the “containment” system exposes the hypocrisy and control embedded in society’s treatment of so-called “fallen” women. In The Palace of Lost Virtue\, Anthea challenges the rigid ideas of good and bad women. \n \n \n \n At its core\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a story of female friendship and resilience. Amongst hardship\, isolation and crime\, the bond between Pansy and Marigold becomes a source of strength and survival. Their relationship offers a moving exploration of loyalty and compassion in a world that both divides and judges them. \n \n Blending real historical events with beautifully written fiction\, the novel shines a light on overlooked chapters of Australian history. Fromthe lives of sex workers to infamous murders\, Anthea Hodgson brings depth and voice to stories long ignored. With its combination ofemotional intensity and historical insight\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a powerful story of violence\, loss and enduring love. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anthea Hodgson is a country girl from the WA Wheatbelt. She worked as a radio producer in WA\, NSW and Queensland before returning to WA\, where she lives with her husband and two children. She is the author of The Drifter\, The Cowgirl and the highly acclaimed 2023historical novel based on the Bangka Island Massacre\, The War Nurses. She is co-host of the Rachael Johns Book Club on facebook and the podcast Reading Between Deadlines. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About host A J Lyndon \n \n \n \n \n \n I have a long standing interest in history\, particularly the English Civil Wars of the 17th century. In 2014 I started writing a novel about the “War Without an enemy” as it was described by an army commander in 1643. The Welsh Linnet was published in 2017. The sequel of which is The Tawny Sash. My short stories have been published in a number of literary journals and anthologies. Despite being Australian I keep in regular contact with historical experts in the UK who patiently answer questions on every aspect of 17th century life on and off the battlefield. I am married with two children and a very spoiled dog. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/gail-holmes/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Fundraiser,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/sq-promo-gail-holmes-final.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250531T100000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250601T140000 DTSTAMP:20250409T012549Z CREATED:20250409T000912Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250409T012549Z UID:64380-1748685600-1748786400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Winter Book Sale | Stockpile your winter reading DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Anthea Hodgson \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n June 17\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Palace of Lost Virture \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anthea Hodgson \n \n Anthea will be in conversation with local author  A J Lyndon \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n At its core\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a story of female friendship and resilience. \n \n Blending real historical events with beautifully written fiction\, the novel shines a light on overlooked chapters of Australian history. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Marigold is a devout Christian working with her mother to save the local women from a life dedicated to sex work. Pansy is one of those sex workers and the owner of Pansy Arlington’s Palace of Pleasure. When the women’s paths cross\, what ensues is an extraordinary friendship\, a shocking murder trial and a history that gives voice to the lives of the remarkable women who lived and died in the goldfields. \n \n Set in Kalgoorlie between 1898 and 1926\, this intimate story of female friendship is drawn from Western Australia’s dark past and real history. Inspired by the real-life murders of policemen Alexander Pitman and John Walsh\, this novel threads a brutal act of violence through its narrative. As the investigation unfolds\, questions of guilt\, justice and truth become increasingly blurred. \n \n The character of Pansy Arlington and the Women’s Christian Temperance Union are also based on real people and movements from the Kalgoorlie area. For around 90 years\, Kalgoorlie employed a system called “containment” whereby prostitution was illegal\, but brothels could operate if they abided by specific rules. The hidden history of women living on the margins and in the “containment” system exposes the hypocrisy and control embedded in society’s treatment of so-called “fallen” women. In The Palace of Lost Virtue\, Anthea challenges the rigid ideas of good and bad women. \n \n \n \n At its core\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a story of female friendship and resilience. Amongst hardship\, isolation and crime\, the bond between Pansy and Marigold becomes a source of strength and survival. Their relationship offers a moving exploration of loyalty and compassion in a world that both divides and judges them. \n \n Blending real historical events with beautifully written fiction\, the novel shines a light on overlooked chapters of Australian history. Fromthe lives of sex workers to infamous murders\, Anthea Hodgson brings depth and voice to stories long ignored. With its combination ofemotional intensity and historical insight\, The Palace of Lost Virtue is a powerful story of violence\, loss and enduring love. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anthea Hodgson is a country girl from the WA Wheatbelt. She worked as a radio producer in WA\, NSW and Queensland before returning to WA\, where she lives with her husband and two children. She is the author of The Drifter\, The Cowgirl and the highly acclaimed 2023historical novel based on the Bangka Island Massacre\, The War Nurses. She is co-host of the Rachael Johns Book Club on facebook and the podcast Reading Between Deadlines. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About host A J Lyndon \n \n \n \n \n \n I have a long standing interest in history\, particularly the English Civil Wars of the 17th century. In 2014 I started writing a novel about the “War Without an enemy” as it was described by an army commander in 1643. The Welsh Linnet was published in 2017. The sequel of which is The Tawny Sash. My short stories have been published in a number of literary journals and anthologies. Despite being Australian I keep in regular contact with historical experts in the UK who patiently answer questions on every aspect of 17th century life on and off the battlefield. I am married with two children and a very spoiled dog. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/book-sale-june-2025/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Culture,Fundraiser,Library,Members ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/book-sale-winter-sq-promo-pexels-clem-onojeghuo-375892-v2.webp END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR