BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute - ECPv6.16.3//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:20260530T100000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260530T110000 DTSTAMP:20260610T132819 CREATED:20260528T041002Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260528T034920Z UID:73311-1780135200-1780138800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Lantern Vaults DESCRIPTION:Lantern Vaults \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 30\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n10:00 am\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n11:00 am\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$25 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Basement* \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Plus bkg. fee \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lantern Vaults \n \n A new immersive installation in the basement of the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute as part of the Ballarat Heritage Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The work is shaped by historical research and guided by the voice of Florence Batten\, the twelve- year-old daughter of William Henry Batten\, Secretary of the Institute\, and based in the early 1870s. As visitors move through the vaults\, her story unfolds through image\, light and sound\, offering a glimpse into early Ballarat and the Batten family’s story. \n \n The installation is built from original artworks created by local artist Amanda Western for this project\, drawing on historical photographs and records of the family\, the Institute and the cultural life of the period. \n \n At its centre is a family closely connected to the Institute\, at a time when access to learning was beginning to open out. The Mechanics’ Institute was founded to bring knowledge within reach of ordinary people\, and this work reflects that shift\, how learning moved beyond a small few and into the wider community. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Experience Schedule \n \n \n \n \n \n Two sessions: 30 May at: 10:00am &  11:00am (aporoximately 25 minute duration). \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n Art for sale \n \n \n \n \n \n \n WH Batten at Desk c1871 | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Minerva | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Auctioneer\, BMI Art Union | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Florence Batten & baby Sarah | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Original artworks from Lantern Vaults will be available for sale with 10% of sales going to the BMI. These funds help support the ongoing committment – To providing a unique place to engage with history\, and a vibrant hub for community events. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tickets $25 per person plus bkg fees. Visitors are to meet in the BMI Foyer. The experience duration is approximately 25 minutes. \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 \n \n \n \n Accessibility: \nMuch of this experience is not wheelchair accessible. The journey to the basements does involve stairs. The tour is not Auslan interpreted\, and the guide does not use any amplification system. Groups will enter dimly lit areas of the building under supervision of the guide. \nBMI Accessibility information can be found at https://ballaratmi.org.au/accessibility  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the artist \n \n \n Amanda Western\n \n \n \n Amanda Western is a visual artist based in Ballarat\, whose work explores the relationship between people and the land. Through printmaking\, I reflect on ecological fragility\, resilience and the shifting nature of landscape\, extending traditional print processes across new materials and forms. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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/lantern-vaults-reprised/ LOCATION:BMI – Multiple Spaces\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Art programs,Ballarat Heritage Festival,Important Dates,Tours ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/sq-promo-events-lantern-vaults.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260523T113000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260524T121500 DTSTAMP:20260610T132819 CREATED:20260421T025952Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260521T053103Z UID:72387-1779535800-1779624900@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Ballarat Heritage Festival - Tours of the Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute DESCRIPTION:Lantern Vaults \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 30\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n10:00 am\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n11:00 am\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$25 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Basement* \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Plus bkg. fee \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lantern Vaults \n \n A new immersive installation in the basement of the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute as part of the Ballarat Heritage Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The work is shaped by historical research and guided by the voice of Florence Batten\, the twelve- year-old daughter of William Henry Batten\, Secretary of the Institute\, and based in the early 1870s. As visitors move through the vaults\, her story unfolds through image\, light and sound\, offering a glimpse into early Ballarat and the Batten family’s story. \n \n The installation is built from original artworks created by local artist Amanda Western for this project\, drawing on historical photographs and records of the family\, the Institute and the cultural life of the period. \n \n At its centre is a family closely connected to the Institute\, at a time when access to learning was beginning to open out. The Mechanics’ Institute was founded to bring knowledge within reach of ordinary people\, and this work reflects that shift\, how learning moved beyond a small few and into the wider community. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Experience Schedule \n \n \n \n \n \n Two sessions: 30 May at: 10:00am &  11:00am (aporoximately 25 minute duration). \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n Art for sale \n \n \n \n \n \n \n WH Batten at Desk c1871 | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Minerva | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Auctioneer\, BMI Art Union | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Florence Batten & baby Sarah | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Original artworks from Lantern Vaults will be available for sale with 10% of sales going to the BMI. These funds help support the ongoing committment – To providing a unique place to engage with history\, and a vibrant hub for community events. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tickets $25 per person plus bkg fees. Visitors are to meet in the BMI Foyer. The experience duration is approximately 25 minutes. \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 \n \n \n \n Accessibility: \nMuch of this experience is not wheelchair accessible. The journey to the basements does involve stairs. The tour is not Auslan interpreted\, and the guide does not use any amplification system. Groups will enter dimly lit areas of the building under supervision of the guide. \nBMI Accessibility information can be found at https://ballaratmi.org.au/accessibility  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the artist \n \n \n Amanda Western\n \n \n \n Amanda Western is a visual artist based in Ballarat\, whose work explores the relationship between people and the land. Through printmaking\, I reflect on ecological fragility\, resilience and the shifting nature of landscape\, extending traditional print processes across new materials and forms. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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/ballarat-heritage-festival-tours/ LOCATION:Meet in the Foyer\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Australia CATEGORIES:Ballarat Heritage Festival,Important Dates,Tours ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/sq-promo-day-tours.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260521T100000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260524T160000 DTSTAMP:20260610T132819 CREATED:20260418T053218Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260522T063609Z UID:72320-1779357600-1779638400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Lantern Vaults DESCRIPTION:Lantern Vaults \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 30\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n10:00 am\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n11:00 am\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$25 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Basement* \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Plus bkg. fee \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lantern Vaults \n \n A new immersive installation in the basement of the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute as part of the Ballarat Heritage Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The work is shaped by historical research and guided by the voice of Florence Batten\, the twelve- year-old daughter of William Henry Batten\, Secretary of the Institute\, and based in the early 1870s. As visitors move through the vaults\, her story unfolds through image\, light and sound\, offering a glimpse into early Ballarat and the Batten family’s story. \n \n The installation is built from original artworks created by local artist Amanda Western for this project\, drawing on historical photographs and records of the family\, the Institute and the cultural life of the period. \n \n At its centre is a family closely connected to the Institute\, at a time when access to learning was beginning to open out. The Mechanics’ Institute was founded to bring knowledge within reach of ordinary people\, and this work reflects that shift\, how learning moved beyond a small few and into the wider community. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Experience Schedule \n \n \n \n \n \n Two sessions: 30 May at: 10:00am &  11:00am (aporoximately 25 minute duration). \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n Art for sale \n \n \n \n \n \n \n WH Batten at Desk c1871 | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Minerva | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Auctioneer\, BMI Art Union | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Florence Batten & baby Sarah | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Original artworks from Lantern Vaults will be available for sale with 10% of sales going to the BMI. These funds help support the ongoing committment – To providing a unique place to engage with history\, and a vibrant hub for community events. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tickets $25 per person plus bkg fees. Visitors are to meet in the BMI Foyer. The experience duration is approximately 25 minutes. \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 \n \n \n \n Accessibility: \nMuch of this experience is not wheelchair accessible. The journey to the basements does involve stairs. The tour is not Auslan interpreted\, and the guide does not use any amplification system. Groups will enter dimly lit areas of the building under supervision of the guide. \nBMI Accessibility information can be found at https://ballaratmi.org.au/accessibility  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the artist \n \n \n Amanda Western\n \n \n \n Amanda Western is a visual artist based in Ballarat\, whose work explores the relationship between people and the land. Through printmaking\, I reflect on ecological fragility\, resilience and the shifting nature of landscape\, extending traditional print processes across new materials and forms. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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/lantern-vaults/ LOCATION:BMI – Multiple Spaces\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Art programs,Ballarat Heritage Festival,Important Dates,Tours ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/sq-promo-events-lantern-vaults.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260519T210000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260519T220000 DTSTAMP:20260610T132819 CREATED:20260310T002124Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T044437Z UID:71139-1779224400-1779228000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Minerva's Secrets | Night Tour DESCRIPTION:Lantern Vaults \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 30\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n10:00 am\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n11:00 am\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$25 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Basement* \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Plus bkg. fee \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lantern Vaults \n \n A new immersive installation in the basement of the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute as part of the Ballarat Heritage Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The work is shaped by historical research and guided by the voice of Florence Batten\, the twelve- year-old daughter of William Henry Batten\, Secretary of the Institute\, and based in the early 1870s. As visitors move through the vaults\, her story unfolds through image\, light and sound\, offering a glimpse into early Ballarat and the Batten family’s story. \n \n The installation is built from original artworks created by local artist Amanda Western for this project\, drawing on historical photographs and records of the family\, the Institute and the cultural life of the period. \n \n At its centre is a family closely connected to the Institute\, at a time when access to learning was beginning to open out. The Mechanics’ Institute was founded to bring knowledge within reach of ordinary people\, and this work reflects that shift\, how learning moved beyond a small few and into the wider community. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Experience Schedule \n \n \n \n \n \n Two sessions: 30 May at: 10:00am &  11:00am (aporoximately 25 minute duration). \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n Art for sale \n \n \n \n \n \n \n WH Batten at Desk c1871 | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Minerva | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Auctioneer\, BMI Art Union | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Florence Batten & baby Sarah | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Original artworks from Lantern Vaults will be available for sale with 10% of sales going to the BMI. These funds help support the ongoing committment – To providing a unique place to engage with history\, and a vibrant hub for community events. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tickets $25 per person plus bkg fees. Visitors are to meet in the BMI Foyer. The experience duration is approximately 25 minutes. \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 \n \n \n \n Accessibility: \nMuch of this experience is not wheelchair accessible. The journey to the basements does involve stairs. The tour is not Auslan interpreted\, and the guide does not use any amplification system. Groups will enter dimly lit areas of the building under supervision of the guide. \nBMI Accessibility information can be found at https://ballaratmi.org.au/accessibility  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the artist \n \n \n Amanda Western\n \n \n \n Amanda Western is a visual artist based in Ballarat\, whose work explores the relationship between people and the land. Through printmaking\, I reflect on ecological fragility\, resilience and the shifting nature of landscape\, extending traditional print processes across new materials and forms. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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/minervas-secrets-night-tour-18-may-26-2/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Australian Heritage Festival,Important Dates,Night Tours,Tours ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/received_265285705882698-e1708919200874.jpeg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260519T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260519T203000 DTSTAMP:20260610T132819 CREATED:20260414T044444Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260418T054257Z UID:72157-1779219000-1779222600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Lantern Vaults | Special Preview DESCRIPTION:Lantern Vaults \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 30\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n10:00 am\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n11:00 am\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$25 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Basement* \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Plus bkg. fee \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lantern Vaults \n \n A new immersive installation in the basement of the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute as part of the Ballarat Heritage Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The work is shaped by historical research and guided by the voice of Florence Batten\, the twelve- year-old daughter of William Henry Batten\, Secretary of the Institute\, and based in the early 1870s. As visitors move through the vaults\, her story unfolds through image\, light and sound\, offering a glimpse into early Ballarat and the Batten family’s story. \n \n The installation is built from original artworks created by local artist Amanda Western for this project\, drawing on historical photographs and records of the family\, the Institute and the cultural life of the period. \n \n At its centre is a family closely connected to the Institute\, at a time when access to learning was beginning to open out. The Mechanics’ Institute was founded to bring knowledge within reach of ordinary people\, and this work reflects that shift\, how learning moved beyond a small few and into the wider community. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Experience Schedule \n \n \n \n \n \n Two sessions: 30 May at: 10:00am &  11:00am (aporoximately 25 minute duration). \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n Art for sale \n \n \n \n \n \n \n WH Batten at Desk c1871 | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Minerva | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Auctioneer\, BMI Art Union | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Florence Batten & baby Sarah | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Original artworks from Lantern Vaults will be available for sale with 10% of sales going to the BMI. These funds help support the ongoing committment – To providing a unique place to engage with history\, and a vibrant hub for community events. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tickets $25 per person plus bkg fees. Visitors are to meet in the BMI Foyer. The experience duration is approximately 25 minutes. \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 \n \n \n \n Accessibility: \nMuch of this experience is not wheelchair accessible. The journey to the basements does involve stairs. The tour is not Auslan interpreted\, and the guide does not use any amplification system. Groups will enter dimly lit areas of the building under supervision of the guide. \nBMI Accessibility information can be found at https://ballaratmi.org.au/accessibility  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the artist \n \n \n Amanda Western\n \n \n \n Amanda Western is a visual artist based in Ballarat\, whose work explores the relationship between people and the land. Through printmaking\, I reflect on ecological fragility\, resilience and the shifting nature of landscape\, extending traditional print processes across new materials and forms. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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/lantern-vaults-preview/ LOCATION:The Basement\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Art programs,Ballarat Heritage Festival,Important Dates ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/sq-promo-events-lantern-vaults.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260519T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260519T200000 DTSTAMP:20260610T132819 CREATED:20260310T001332Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T035527Z UID:71137-1779217200-1779220800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Minerva's Secrets | Night Tour DESCRIPTION:Lantern Vaults \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 30\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n10:00 am\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n11:00 am\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$25 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Basement* \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Plus bkg. fee \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lantern Vaults \n \n A new immersive installation in the basement of the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute as part of the Ballarat Heritage Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The work is shaped by historical research and guided by the voice of Florence Batten\, the twelve- year-old daughter of William Henry Batten\, Secretary of the Institute\, and based in the early 1870s. As visitors move through the vaults\, her story unfolds through image\, light and sound\, offering a glimpse into early Ballarat and the Batten family’s story. \n \n The installation is built from original artworks created by local artist Amanda Western for this project\, drawing on historical photographs and records of the family\, the Institute and the cultural life of the period. \n \n At its centre is a family closely connected to the Institute\, at a time when access to learning was beginning to open out. The Mechanics’ Institute was founded to bring knowledge within reach of ordinary people\, and this work reflects that shift\, how learning moved beyond a small few and into the wider community. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Experience Schedule \n \n \n \n \n \n Two sessions: 30 May at: 10:00am &  11:00am (aporoximately 25 minute duration). \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n Art for sale \n \n \n \n \n \n \n WH Batten at Desk c1871 | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Minerva | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Auctioneer\, BMI Art Union | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Florence Batten & baby Sarah | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Original artworks from Lantern Vaults will be available for sale with 10% of sales going to the BMI. These funds help support the ongoing committment – To providing a unique place to engage with history\, and a vibrant hub for community events. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tickets $25 per person plus bkg fees. Visitors are to meet in the BMI Foyer. The experience duration is approximately 25 minutes. \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 \n \n \n \n Accessibility: \nMuch of this experience is not wheelchair accessible. The journey to the basements does involve stairs. The tour is not Auslan interpreted\, and the guide does not use any amplification system. Groups will enter dimly lit areas of the building under supervision of the guide. \nBMI Accessibility information can be found at https://ballaratmi.org.au/accessibility  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the artist \n \n \n Amanda Western\n \n \n \n Amanda Western is a visual artist based in Ballarat\, whose work explores the relationship between people and the land. Through printmaking\, I reflect on ecological fragility\, resilience and the shifting nature of landscape\, extending traditional print processes across new materials and forms. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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/minervas-secrets-night-tour-19-may-26/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Australian Heritage Festival,Important Dates,Night Tours,Tours ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/received_908662326866361-e1708918930337.jpeg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260424T210000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260424T220000 DTSTAMP:20260610T132819 CREATED:20250923T052206Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T044330Z UID:67565-1777064400-1777068000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Minerva's Secrets | Night Tour DESCRIPTION:Lantern Vaults \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 30\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n10:00 am\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n11:00 am\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$25 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Basement* \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Plus bkg. fee \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lantern Vaults \n \n A new immersive installation in the basement of the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute as part of the Ballarat Heritage Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The work is shaped by historical research and guided by the voice of Florence Batten\, the twelve- year-old daughter of William Henry Batten\, Secretary of the Institute\, and based in the early 1870s. As visitors move through the vaults\, her story unfolds through image\, light and sound\, offering a glimpse into early Ballarat and the Batten family’s story. \n \n The installation is built from original artworks created by local artist Amanda Western for this project\, drawing on historical photographs and records of the family\, the Institute and the cultural life of the period. \n \n At its centre is a family closely connected to the Institute\, at a time when access to learning was beginning to open out. The Mechanics’ Institute was founded to bring knowledge within reach of ordinary people\, and this work reflects that shift\, how learning moved beyond a small few and into the wider community. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Experience Schedule \n \n \n \n \n \n Two sessions: 30 May at: 10:00am &  11:00am (aporoximately 25 minute duration). \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n Art for sale \n \n \n \n \n \n \n WH Batten at Desk c1871 | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Minerva | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Auctioneer\, BMI Art Union | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Florence Batten & baby Sarah | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Original artworks from Lantern Vaults will be available for sale with 10% of sales going to the BMI. These funds help support the ongoing committment – To providing a unique place to engage with history\, and a vibrant hub for community events. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tickets $25 per person plus bkg fees. Visitors are to meet in the BMI Foyer. The experience duration is approximately 25 minutes. \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 \n \n \n \n Accessibility: \nMuch of this experience is not wheelchair accessible. The journey to the basements does involve stairs. The tour is not Auslan interpreted\, and the guide does not use any amplification system. Groups will enter dimly lit areas of the building under supervision of the guide. \nBMI Accessibility information can be found at https://ballaratmi.org.au/accessibility  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the artist \n \n \n Amanda Western\n \n \n \n Amanda Western is a visual artist based in Ballarat\, whose work explores the relationship between people and the land. Through printmaking\, I reflect on ecological fragility\, resilience and the shifting nature of landscape\, extending traditional print processes across new materials and forms. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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/minervas-secrets-night-tours-24-apr-26-2/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Australian Heritage Festival,Important Dates,Night Tours,Tours ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/received_265285705882698-e1708919200874.jpeg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260424T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260424T200000 DTSTAMP:20260610T132819 CREATED:20260310T000249Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T044311Z UID:71128-1777057200-1777060800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Minerva's Secrets | Night Tour DESCRIPTION:Lantern Vaults \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 30\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n10:00 am\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n11:00 am\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$25 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Basement* \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Plus bkg. fee \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lantern Vaults \n \n A new immersive installation in the basement of the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute as part of the Ballarat Heritage Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The work is shaped by historical research and guided by the voice of Florence Batten\, the twelve- year-old daughter of William Henry Batten\, Secretary of the Institute\, and based in the early 1870s. As visitors move through the vaults\, her story unfolds through image\, light and sound\, offering a glimpse into early Ballarat and the Batten family’s story. \n \n The installation is built from original artworks created by local artist Amanda Western for this project\, drawing on historical photographs and records of the family\, the Institute and the cultural life of the period. \n \n At its centre is a family closely connected to the Institute\, at a time when access to learning was beginning to open out. The Mechanics’ Institute was founded to bring knowledge within reach of ordinary people\, and this work reflects that shift\, how learning moved beyond a small few and into the wider community. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Experience Schedule \n \n \n \n \n \n Two sessions: 30 May at: 10:00am &  11:00am (aporoximately 25 minute duration). \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n Art for sale \n \n \n \n \n \n \n WH Batten at Desk c1871 | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Minerva | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Auctioneer\, BMI Art Union | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Florence Batten & baby Sarah | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Original artworks from Lantern Vaults will be available for sale with 10% of sales going to the BMI. These funds help support the ongoing committment – To providing a unique place to engage with history\, and a vibrant hub for community events. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tickets $25 per person plus bkg fees. Visitors are to meet in the BMI Foyer. The experience duration is approximately 25 minutes. \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 \n \n \n \n Accessibility: \nMuch of this experience is not wheelchair accessible. The journey to the basements does involve stairs. The tour is not Auslan interpreted\, and the guide does not use any amplification system. Groups will enter dimly lit areas of the building under supervision of the guide. \nBMI Accessibility information can be found at https://ballaratmi.org.au/accessibility  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the artist \n \n \n Amanda Western\n \n \n \n Amanda Western is a visual artist based in Ballarat\, whose work explores the relationship between people and the land. Through printmaking\, I reflect on ecological fragility\, resilience and the shifting nature of landscape\, extending traditional print processes across new materials and forms. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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/minervas-secrets-night-tour-24-apr-26/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Australian Heritage Festival,Important Dates,Night Tours,Tours ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/received_908662326866361-e1708918930337.jpeg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260110T130000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260110T160000 DTSTAMP:20260610T132819 CREATED:20251209T021738Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251209T041541Z UID:69434-1768050000-1768060800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Artistanbul: Create your own Turkish Mosaic Lamp DESCRIPTION:Lantern Vaults \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 30\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n10:00 am\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n11:00 am\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$25 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Basement* \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Plus bkg. fee \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lantern Vaults \n \n A new immersive installation in the basement of the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute as part of the Ballarat Heritage Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The work is shaped by historical research and guided by the voice of Florence Batten\, the twelve- year-old daughter of William Henry Batten\, Secretary of the Institute\, and based in the early 1870s. As visitors move through the vaults\, her story unfolds through image\, light and sound\, offering a glimpse into early Ballarat and the Batten family’s story. \n \n The installation is built from original artworks created by local artist Amanda Western for this project\, drawing on historical photographs and records of the family\, the Institute and the cultural life of the period. \n \n At its centre is a family closely connected to the Institute\, at a time when access to learning was beginning to open out. The Mechanics’ Institute was founded to bring knowledge within reach of ordinary people\, and this work reflects that shift\, how learning moved beyond a small few and into the wider community. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Experience Schedule \n \n \n \n \n \n Two sessions: 30 May at: 10:00am &  11:00am (aporoximately 25 minute duration). \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n Art for sale \n \n \n \n \n \n \n WH Batten at Desk c1871 | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Minerva | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Auctioneer\, BMI Art Union | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Florence Batten & baby Sarah | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Original artworks from Lantern Vaults will be available for sale with 10% of sales going to the BMI. These funds help support the ongoing committment – To providing a unique place to engage with history\, and a vibrant hub for community events. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tickets $25 per person plus bkg fees. Visitors are to meet in the BMI Foyer. The experience duration is approximately 25 minutes. \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 \n \n \n \n Accessibility: \nMuch of this experience is not wheelchair accessible. The journey to the basements does involve stairs. The tour is not Auslan interpreted\, and the guide does not use any amplification system. Groups will enter dimly lit areas of the building under supervision of the guide. \nBMI Accessibility information can be found at https://ballaratmi.org.au/accessibility  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the artist \n \n \n Amanda Western\n \n \n \n Amanda Western is a visual artist based in Ballarat\, whose work explores the relationship between people and the land. Through printmaking\, I reflect on ecological fragility\, resilience and the shifting nature of landscape\, extending traditional print processes across new materials and forms. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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/art-istanbul-workshop/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Art programs,Christmas,Fundraiser,Important Dates,Market ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/sq-promo-art-instanbul.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251212T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251212T200000 DTSTAMP:20260610T132819 CREATED:20250923T045702Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250923T051149Z UID:67545-1765566000-1765569600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Minerva's Secrets | Night Tour DESCRIPTION:Lantern Vaults \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 30\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n10:00 am\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n11:00 am\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$25 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Basement* \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Plus bkg. fee \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lantern Vaults \n \n A new immersive installation in the basement of the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute as part of the Ballarat Heritage Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The work is shaped by historical research and guided by the voice of Florence Batten\, the twelve- year-old daughter of William Henry Batten\, Secretary of the Institute\, and based in the early 1870s. As visitors move through the vaults\, her story unfolds through image\, light and sound\, offering a glimpse into early Ballarat and the Batten family’s story. \n \n The installation is built from original artworks created by local artist Amanda Western for this project\, drawing on historical photographs and records of the family\, the Institute and the cultural life of the period. \n \n At its centre is a family closely connected to the Institute\, at a time when access to learning was beginning to open out. The Mechanics’ Institute was founded to bring knowledge within reach of ordinary people\, and this work reflects that shift\, how learning moved beyond a small few and into the wider community. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Experience Schedule \n \n \n \n \n \n Two sessions: 30 May at: 10:00am &  11:00am (aporoximately 25 minute duration). \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n Art for sale \n \n \n \n \n \n \n WH Batten at Desk c1871 | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Minerva | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Auctioneer\, BMI Art Union | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Florence Batten & baby Sarah | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Original artworks from Lantern Vaults will be available for sale with 10% of sales going to the BMI. These funds help support the ongoing committment – To providing a unique place to engage with history\, and a vibrant hub for community events. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tickets $25 per person plus bkg fees. Visitors are to meet in the BMI Foyer. The experience duration is approximately 25 minutes. \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 \n \n \n \n Accessibility: \nMuch of this experience is not wheelchair accessible. The journey to the basements does involve stairs. The tour is not Auslan interpreted\, and the guide does not use any amplification system. Groups will enter dimly lit areas of the building under supervision of the guide. \nBMI Accessibility information can be found at https://ballaratmi.org.au/accessibility  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the artist \n \n \n Amanda Western\n \n \n \n Amanda Western is a visual artist based in Ballarat\, whose work explores the relationship between people and the land. Through printmaking\, I reflect on ecological fragility\, resilience and the shifting nature of landscape\, extending traditional print processes across new materials and forms. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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/minervas-secrets-night-tours-12-dec-25/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Important Dates,Night Tours,Tours ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/received_908662326866361-e1708918930337.jpeg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251207T090000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251207T140000 DTSTAMP:20260610T132819 CREATED:20251110T010546Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251203T043313Z UID:68424-1765098000-1765116000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:BMI Christmas Market DESCRIPTION:Lantern Vaults \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 30\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n10:00 am\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n11:00 am\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$25 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Basement* \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Plus bkg. fee \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lantern Vaults \n \n A new immersive installation in the basement of the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute as part of the Ballarat Heritage Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The work is shaped by historical research and guided by the voice of Florence Batten\, the twelve- year-old daughter of William Henry Batten\, Secretary of the Institute\, and based in the early 1870s. As visitors move through the vaults\, her story unfolds through image\, light and sound\, offering a glimpse into early Ballarat and the Batten family’s story. \n \n The installation is built from original artworks created by local artist Amanda Western for this project\, drawing on historical photographs and records of the family\, the Institute and the cultural life of the period. \n \n At its centre is a family closely connected to the Institute\, at a time when access to learning was beginning to open out. The Mechanics’ Institute was founded to bring knowledge within reach of ordinary people\, and this work reflects that shift\, how learning moved beyond a small few and into the wider community. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Experience Schedule \n \n \n \n \n \n Two sessions: 30 May at: 10:00am &  11:00am (aporoximately 25 minute duration). \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n Art for sale \n \n \n \n \n \n \n WH Batten at Desk c1871 | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Minerva | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Auctioneer\, BMI Art Union | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Florence Batten & baby Sarah | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Original artworks from Lantern Vaults will be available for sale with 10% of sales going to the BMI. These funds help support the ongoing committment – To providing a unique place to engage with history\, and a vibrant hub for community events. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tickets $25 per person plus bkg fees. Visitors are to meet in the BMI Foyer. The experience duration is approximately 25 minutes. \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 \n \n \n \n Accessibility: \nMuch of this experience is not wheelchair accessible. The journey to the basements does involve stairs. The tour is not Auslan interpreted\, and the guide does not use any amplification system. Groups will enter dimly lit areas of the building under supervision of the guide. \nBMI Accessibility information can be found at https://ballaratmi.org.au/accessibility  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the artist \n \n \n Amanda Western\n \n \n \n Amanda Western is a visual artist based in Ballarat\, whose work explores the relationship between people and the land. Through printmaking\, I reflect on ecological fragility\, resilience and the shifting nature of landscape\, extending traditional print processes across new materials and forms. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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-market/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Art programs,Christmas,Fundraiser,Important Dates,Market ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/square-promo-christmas-market-calling-for-stallholders-v5-final-1.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251206T100000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251206T140000 DTSTAMP:20260610T132819 CREATED:20251110T024632Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251128T005707Z UID:68436-1765015200-1765029600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:BMI Christmas Book Sale DESCRIPTION:Lantern Vaults \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 30\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n10:00 am\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n11:00 am\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$25 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Basement* \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Plus bkg. fee \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lantern Vaults \n \n A new immersive installation in the basement of the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute as part of the Ballarat Heritage Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The work is shaped by historical research and guided by the voice of Florence Batten\, the twelve- year-old daughter of William Henry Batten\, Secretary of the Institute\, and based in the early 1870s. As visitors move through the vaults\, her story unfolds through image\, light and sound\, offering a glimpse into early Ballarat and the Batten family’s story. \n \n The installation is built from original artworks created by local artist Amanda Western for this project\, drawing on historical photographs and records of the family\, the Institute and the cultural life of the period. \n \n At its centre is a family closely connected to the Institute\, at a time when access to learning was beginning to open out. The Mechanics’ Institute was founded to bring knowledge within reach of ordinary people\, and this work reflects that shift\, how learning moved beyond a small few and into the wider community. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Experience Schedule \n \n \n \n \n \n Two sessions: 30 May at: 10:00am &  11:00am (aporoximately 25 minute duration). \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n Art for sale \n \n \n \n \n \n \n WH Batten at Desk c1871 | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Minerva | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Auctioneer\, BMI Art Union | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Florence Batten & baby Sarah | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Original artworks from Lantern Vaults will be available for sale with 10% of sales going to the BMI. These funds help support the ongoing committment – To providing a unique place to engage with history\, and a vibrant hub for community events. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tickets $25 per person plus bkg fees. Visitors are to meet in the BMI Foyer. The experience duration is approximately 25 minutes. \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 \n \n \n \n Accessibility: \nMuch of this experience is not wheelchair accessible. The journey to the basements does involve stairs. The tour is not Auslan interpreted\, and the guide does not use any amplification system. Groups will enter dimly lit areas of the building under supervision of the guide. \nBMI Accessibility information can be found at https://ballaratmi.org.au/accessibility  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the artist \n \n \n Amanda Western\n \n \n \n Amanda Western is a visual artist based in Ballarat\, whose work explores the relationship between people and the land. Through printmaking\, I reflect on ecological fragility\, resilience and the shifting nature of landscape\, extending traditional print processes across new materials and forms. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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:20251126T173000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251126T183000 DTSTAMP:20260610T132819 CREATED:20250728T055539Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251110T233614Z UID:66413-1764178200-1764181800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Twilight Talks 2025\, Season 5\, Recent Years | Ballarat Arts Foundation: 25 Years Old\, Presented by Paula Nicholson DESCRIPTION:Lantern Vaults \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 30\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n10:00 am\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n11:00 am\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$25 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Basement* \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Plus bkg. fee \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lantern Vaults \n \n A new immersive installation in the basement of the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute as part of the Ballarat Heritage Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The work is shaped by historical research and guided by the voice of Florence Batten\, the twelve- year-old daughter of William Henry Batten\, Secretary of the Institute\, and based in the early 1870s. As visitors move through the vaults\, her story unfolds through image\, light and sound\, offering a glimpse into early Ballarat and the Batten family’s story. \n \n The installation is built from original artworks created by local artist Amanda Western for this project\, drawing on historical photographs and records of the family\, the Institute and the cultural life of the period. \n \n At its centre is a family closely connected to the Institute\, at a time when access to learning was beginning to open out. The Mechanics’ Institute was founded to bring knowledge within reach of ordinary people\, and this work reflects that shift\, how learning moved beyond a small few and into the wider community. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Experience Schedule \n \n \n \n \n \n Two sessions: 30 May at: 10:00am &  11:00am (aporoximately 25 minute duration). \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n Art for sale \n \n \n \n \n \n \n WH Batten at Desk c1871 | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Minerva | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Auctioneer\, BMI Art Union | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Florence Batten & baby Sarah | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Original artworks from Lantern Vaults will be available for sale with 10% of sales going to the BMI. These funds help support the ongoing committment – To providing a unique place to engage with history\, and a vibrant hub for community events. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tickets $25 per person plus bkg fees. Visitors are to meet in the BMI Foyer. The experience duration is approximately 25 minutes. \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 \n \n \n \n Accessibility: \nMuch of this experience is not wheelchair accessible. The journey to the basements does involve stairs. The tour is not Auslan interpreted\, and the guide does not use any amplification system. Groups will enter dimly lit areas of the building under supervision of the guide. \nBMI Accessibility information can be found at https://ballaratmi.org.au/accessibility  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the artist \n \n \n Amanda Western\n \n \n \n Amanda Western is a visual artist based in Ballarat\, whose work explores the relationship between people and the land. Through printmaking\, I reflect on ecological fragility\, resilience and the shifting nature of landscape\, extending traditional print processes across new materials and forms. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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/ballarat-arts-foundation/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Fundraiser,Important Dates,Members,Talk,Twilight Talks ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/square-promo-2025-ballarat-arts-foundation.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251122T100000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251123T160000 DTSTAMP:20260610T132819 CREATED:20240822T062240Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251120T012503Z UID:58498-1763805600-1763913600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Open Garden & Devonshire Tea - BMI Fundraiser | Errard Hall DESCRIPTION:Lantern Vaults \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 30\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n10:00 am\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n11:00 am\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$25 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Basement* \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Plus bkg. fee \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lantern Vaults \n \n A new immersive installation in the basement of the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute as part of the Ballarat Heritage Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The work is shaped by historical research and guided by the voice of Florence Batten\, the twelve- year-old daughter of William Henry Batten\, Secretary of the Institute\, and based in the early 1870s. As visitors move through the vaults\, her story unfolds through image\, light and sound\, offering a glimpse into early Ballarat and the Batten family’s story. \n \n The installation is built from original artworks created by local artist Amanda Western for this project\, drawing on historical photographs and records of the family\, the Institute and the cultural life of the period. \n \n At its centre is a family closely connected to the Institute\, at a time when access to learning was beginning to open out. The Mechanics’ Institute was founded to bring knowledge within reach of ordinary people\, and this work reflects that shift\, how learning moved beyond a small few and into the wider community. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Experience Schedule \n \n \n \n \n \n Two sessions: 30 May at: 10:00am &  11:00am (aporoximately 25 minute duration). \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n Art for sale \n \n \n \n \n \n \n WH Batten at Desk c1871 | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Minerva | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Auctioneer\, BMI Art Union | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Florence Batten & baby Sarah | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Original artworks from Lantern Vaults will be available for sale with 10% of sales going to the BMI. These funds help support the ongoing committment – To providing a unique place to engage with history\, and a vibrant hub for community events. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tickets $25 per person plus bkg fees. Visitors are to meet in the BMI Foyer. The experience duration is approximately 25 minutes. \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 \n \n \n \n Accessibility: \nMuch of this experience is not wheelchair accessible. The journey to the basements does involve stairs. The tour is not Auslan interpreted\, and the guide does not use any amplification system. Groups will enter dimly lit areas of the building under supervision of the guide. \nBMI Accessibility information can be found at https://ballaratmi.org.au/accessibility  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the artist \n \n \n Amanda Western\n \n \n \n Amanda Western is a visual artist based in Ballarat\, whose work explores the relationship between people and the land. Through printmaking\, I reflect on ecological fragility\, resilience and the shifting nature of landscape\, extending traditional print processes across new materials and forms. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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/open-garden-fundraiser-2025/ LOCATION:Errard Hall\, Errard Street North\, Ballarat Central\, City of Ballarat\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Fundraiser,Important Dates,Members,Urban Agriculture Month ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/square-promo-errard-hall.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251119T173000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251119T183000 DTSTAMP:20260610T132820 CREATED:20250728T054722Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251110T232935Z UID:66407-1763573400-1763577000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Twilight Talks 2025\, Season 5\, Recent Years | Ballarat's Her Majesty's Reinvention\, Presented by Richard Nicholson DESCRIPTION:Lantern Vaults \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 30\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n10:00 am\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n11:00 am\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$25 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Basement* \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Plus bkg. fee \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lantern Vaults \n \n A new immersive installation in the basement of the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute as part of the Ballarat Heritage Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The work is shaped by historical research and guided by the voice of Florence Batten\, the twelve- year-old daughter of William Henry Batten\, Secretary of the Institute\, and based in the early 1870s. As visitors move through the vaults\, her story unfolds through image\, light and sound\, offering a glimpse into early Ballarat and the Batten family’s story. \n \n The installation is built from original artworks created by local artist Amanda Western for this project\, drawing on historical photographs and records of the family\, the Institute and the cultural life of the period. \n \n At its centre is a family closely connected to the Institute\, at a time when access to learning was beginning to open out. The Mechanics’ Institute was founded to bring knowledge within reach of ordinary people\, and this work reflects that shift\, how learning moved beyond a small few and into the wider community. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Experience Schedule \n \n \n \n \n \n Two sessions: 30 May at: 10:00am &  11:00am (aporoximately 25 minute duration). \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n Art for sale \n \n \n \n \n \n \n WH Batten at Desk c1871 | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Minerva | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Auctioneer\, BMI Art Union | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Florence Batten & baby Sarah | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Original artworks from Lantern Vaults will be available for sale with 10% of sales going to the BMI. These funds help support the ongoing committment – To providing a unique place to engage with history\, and a vibrant hub for community events. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tickets $25 per person plus bkg fees. Visitors are to meet in the BMI Foyer. The experience duration is approximately 25 minutes. \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 \n \n \n \n Accessibility: \nMuch of this experience is not wheelchair accessible. The journey to the basements does involve stairs. The tour is not Auslan interpreted\, and the guide does not use any amplification system. Groups will enter dimly lit areas of the building under supervision of the guide. \nBMI Accessibility information can be found at https://ballaratmi.org.au/accessibility  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the artist \n \n \n Amanda Western\n \n \n \n Amanda Western is a visual artist based in Ballarat\, whose work explores the relationship between people and the land. Through printmaking\, I reflect on ecological fragility\, resilience and the shifting nature of landscape\, extending traditional print processes across new materials and forms. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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/her-majestys-reinvention/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Fundraiser,Important Dates,Members,Talk,Twilight Talks ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/square-promo-2025-her-majestys-final.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251115T210000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251115T220000 DTSTAMP:20260610T132820 CREATED:20250923T051356Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250923T052637Z UID:67555-1763240400-1763244000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Minerva's Secrets | Night Tour DESCRIPTION:Lantern Vaults \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 30\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n10:00 am\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n11:00 am\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$25 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Basement* \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Plus bkg. fee \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lantern Vaults \n \n A new immersive installation in the basement of the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute as part of the Ballarat Heritage Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The work is shaped by historical research and guided by the voice of Florence Batten\, the twelve- year-old daughter of William Henry Batten\, Secretary of the Institute\, and based in the early 1870s. As visitors move through the vaults\, her story unfolds through image\, light and sound\, offering a glimpse into early Ballarat and the Batten family’s story. \n \n The installation is built from original artworks created by local artist Amanda Western for this project\, drawing on historical photographs and records of the family\, the Institute and the cultural life of the period. \n \n At its centre is a family closely connected to the Institute\, at a time when access to learning was beginning to open out. The Mechanics’ Institute was founded to bring knowledge within reach of ordinary people\, and this work reflects that shift\, how learning moved beyond a small few and into the wider community. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Experience Schedule \n \n \n \n \n \n Two sessions: 30 May at: 10:00am &  11:00am (aporoximately 25 minute duration). \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n Art for sale \n \n \n \n \n \n \n WH Batten at Desk c1871 | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Minerva | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Auctioneer\, BMI Art Union | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Florence Batten & baby Sarah | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Original artworks from Lantern Vaults will be available for sale with 10% of sales going to the BMI. These funds help support the ongoing committment – To providing a unique place to engage with history\, and a vibrant hub for community events. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tickets $25 per person plus bkg fees. Visitors are to meet in the BMI Foyer. The experience duration is approximately 25 minutes. \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 \n \n \n \n Accessibility: \nMuch of this experience is not wheelchair accessible. The journey to the basements does involve stairs. The tour is not Auslan interpreted\, and the guide does not use any amplification system. Groups will enter dimly lit areas of the building under supervision of the guide. \nBMI Accessibility information can be found at https://ballaratmi.org.au/accessibility  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the artist \n \n \n Amanda Western\n \n \n \n Amanda Western is a visual artist based in Ballarat\, whose work explores the relationship between people and the land. Through printmaking\, I reflect on ecological fragility\, resilience and the shifting nature of landscape\, extending traditional print processes across new materials and forms. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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/minervas-secrets-night-tours-15-nov-25-2/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Fundraiser,Important Dates,Night Tours,Tours ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/received_265285705882698-e1708919200874.jpeg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251115T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251115T200000 DTSTAMP:20260610T132820 CREATED:20250923T040314Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250923T052823Z UID:67502-1763233200-1763236800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Minerva's Secrets | Night Tour DESCRIPTION:Lantern Vaults \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 30\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n10:00 am\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n11:00 am\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$25 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Basement* \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Plus bkg. fee \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lantern Vaults \n \n A new immersive installation in the basement of the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute as part of the Ballarat Heritage Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The work is shaped by historical research and guided by the voice of Florence Batten\, the twelve- year-old daughter of William Henry Batten\, Secretary of the Institute\, and based in the early 1870s. As visitors move through the vaults\, her story unfolds through image\, light and sound\, offering a glimpse into early Ballarat and the Batten family’s story. \n \n The installation is built from original artworks created by local artist Amanda Western for this project\, drawing on historical photographs and records of the family\, the Institute and the cultural life of the period. \n \n At its centre is a family closely connected to the Institute\, at a time when access to learning was beginning to open out. The Mechanics’ Institute was founded to bring knowledge within reach of ordinary people\, and this work reflects that shift\, how learning moved beyond a small few and into the wider community. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Experience Schedule \n \n \n \n \n \n Two sessions: 30 May at: 10:00am &  11:00am (aporoximately 25 minute duration). \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n Art for sale \n \n \n \n \n \n \n WH Batten at Desk c1871 | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Minerva | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Auctioneer\, BMI Art Union | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Florence Batten & baby Sarah | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Original artworks from Lantern Vaults will be available for sale with 10% of sales going to the BMI. These funds help support the ongoing committment – To providing a unique place to engage with history\, and a vibrant hub for community events. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tickets $25 per person plus bkg fees. Visitors are to meet in the BMI Foyer. The experience duration is approximately 25 minutes. \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 \n \n \n \n Accessibility: \nMuch of this experience is not wheelchair accessible. The journey to the basements does involve stairs. The tour is not Auslan interpreted\, and the guide does not use any amplification system. Groups will enter dimly lit areas of the building under supervision of the guide. \nBMI Accessibility information can be found at https://ballaratmi.org.au/accessibility  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the artist \n \n \n Amanda Western\n \n \n \n Amanda Western is a visual artist based in Ballarat\, whose work explores the relationship between people and the land. Through printmaking\, I reflect on ecological fragility\, resilience and the shifting nature of landscape\, extending traditional print processes across new materials and forms. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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/minervas-secrets-night-tours-15-nov-25/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Fundraiser,Important Dates,Night Tours,Tours ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/received_908662326866361-e1708918930337.jpeg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251105T191500 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251105T200000 DTSTAMP:20260610T132820 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:Lantern Vaults \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 30\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n10:00 am\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n11:00 am\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$25 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Basement* \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Plus bkg. fee \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lantern Vaults \n \n A new immersive installation in the basement of the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute as part of the Ballarat Heritage Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The work is shaped by historical research and guided by the voice of Florence Batten\, the twelve- year-old daughter of William Henry Batten\, Secretary of the Institute\, and based in the early 1870s. As visitors move through the vaults\, her story unfolds through image\, light and sound\, offering a glimpse into early Ballarat and the Batten family’s story. \n \n The installation is built from original artworks created by local artist Amanda Western for this project\, drawing on historical photographs and records of the family\, the Institute and the cultural life of the period. \n \n At its centre is a family closely connected to the Institute\, at a time when access to learning was beginning to open out. The Mechanics’ Institute was founded to bring knowledge within reach of ordinary people\, and this work reflects that shift\, how learning moved beyond a small few and into the wider community. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Experience Schedule \n \n \n \n \n \n Two sessions: 30 May at: 10:00am &  11:00am (aporoximately 25 minute duration). \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n Art for sale \n \n \n \n \n \n \n WH Batten at Desk c1871 | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Minerva | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Auctioneer\, BMI Art Union | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Florence Batten & baby Sarah | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Original artworks from Lantern Vaults will be available for sale with 10% of sales going to the BMI. These funds help support the ongoing committment – To providing a unique place to engage with history\, and a vibrant hub for community events. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tickets $25 per person plus bkg fees. Visitors are to meet in the BMI Foyer. The experience duration is approximately 25 minutes. \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 \n \n \n \n Accessibility: \nMuch of this experience is not wheelchair accessible. The journey to the basements does involve stairs. The tour is not Auslan interpreted\, and the guide does not use any amplification system. Groups will enter dimly lit areas of the building under supervision of the guide. \nBMI Accessibility information can be found at https://ballaratmi.org.au/accessibility  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the artist \n \n \n Amanda Western\n \n \n \n Amanda Western is a visual artist based in Ballarat\, whose work explores the relationship between people and the land. Through printmaking\, I reflect on ecological fragility\, resilience and the shifting nature of landscape\, extending traditional print processes across new materials and forms. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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:20260610T132820 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:Lantern Vaults \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 30\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n10:00 am\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n11:00 am\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$25 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Basement* \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Plus bkg. fee \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lantern Vaults \n \n A new immersive installation in the basement of the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute as part of the Ballarat Heritage Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The work is shaped by historical research and guided by the voice of Florence Batten\, the twelve- year-old daughter of William Henry Batten\, Secretary of the Institute\, and based in the early 1870s. As visitors move through the vaults\, her story unfolds through image\, light and sound\, offering a glimpse into early Ballarat and the Batten family’s story. \n \n The installation is built from original artworks created by local artist Amanda Western for this project\, drawing on historical photographs and records of the family\, the Institute and the cultural life of the period. \n \n At its centre is a family closely connected to the Institute\, at a time when access to learning was beginning to open out. The Mechanics’ Institute was founded to bring knowledge within reach of ordinary people\, and this work reflects that shift\, how learning moved beyond a small few and into the wider community. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Experience Schedule \n \n \n \n \n \n Two sessions: 30 May at: 10:00am &  11:00am (aporoximately 25 minute duration). \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n Art for sale \n \n \n \n \n \n \n WH Batten at Desk c1871 | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Minerva | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Auctioneer\, BMI Art Union | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Florence Batten & baby Sarah | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Original artworks from Lantern Vaults will be available for sale with 10% of sales going to the BMI. These funds help support the ongoing committment – To providing a unique place to engage with history\, and a vibrant hub for community events. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tickets $25 per person plus bkg fees. Visitors are to meet in the BMI Foyer. The experience duration is approximately 25 minutes. \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 \n \n \n \n Accessibility: \nMuch of this experience is not wheelchair accessible. The journey to the basements does involve stairs. The tour is not Auslan interpreted\, and the guide does not use any amplification system. Groups will enter dimly lit areas of the building under supervision of the guide. \nBMI Accessibility information can be found at https://ballaratmi.org.au/accessibility  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the artist \n \n \n Amanda Western\n \n \n \n Amanda Western is a visual artist based in Ballarat\, whose work explores the relationship between people and the land. Through printmaking\, I reflect on ecological fragility\, resilience and the shifting nature of landscape\, extending traditional print processes across new materials and forms. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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:20251105T173000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251105T183000 DTSTAMP:20260610T132820 CREATED:20250728T053444Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251110T033437Z UID:66400-1762363800-1762367400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Twilight Talks 2025\, Season 4\, Remembrance Day | Recent War Memorabilia - from WW2 to Afghanistan\, Presented by David Wright. DESCRIPTION:Lantern Vaults \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 30\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n10:00 am\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n11:00 am\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$25 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Basement* \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Plus bkg. fee \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lantern Vaults \n \n A new immersive installation in the basement of the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute as part of the Ballarat Heritage Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The work is shaped by historical research and guided by the voice of Florence Batten\, the twelve- year-old daughter of William Henry Batten\, Secretary of the Institute\, and based in the early 1870s. As visitors move through the vaults\, her story unfolds through image\, light and sound\, offering a glimpse into early Ballarat and the Batten family’s story. \n \n The installation is built from original artworks created by local artist Amanda Western for this project\, drawing on historical photographs and records of the family\, the Institute and the cultural life of the period. \n \n At its centre is a family closely connected to the Institute\, at a time when access to learning was beginning to open out. The Mechanics’ Institute was founded to bring knowledge within reach of ordinary people\, and this work reflects that shift\, how learning moved beyond a small few and into the wider community. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Experience Schedule \n \n \n \n \n \n Two sessions: 30 May at: 10:00am &  11:00am (aporoximately 25 minute duration). \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n Art for sale \n \n \n \n \n \n \n WH Batten at Desk c1871 | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Minerva | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Auctioneer\, BMI Art Union | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Florence Batten & baby Sarah | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Original artworks from Lantern Vaults will be available for sale with 10% of sales going to the BMI. These funds help support the ongoing committment – To providing a unique place to engage with history\, and a vibrant hub for community events. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tickets $25 per person plus bkg fees. Visitors are to meet in the BMI Foyer. The experience duration is approximately 25 minutes. \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 \n \n \n \n Accessibility: \nMuch of this experience is not wheelchair accessible. The journey to the basements does involve stairs. The tour is not Auslan interpreted\, and the guide does not use any amplification system. Groups will enter dimly lit areas of the building under supervision of the guide. \nBMI Accessibility information can be found at https://ballaratmi.org.au/accessibility  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the artist \n \n \n Amanda Western\n \n \n \n Amanda Western is a visual artist based in Ballarat\, whose work explores the relationship between people and the land. Through printmaking\, I reflect on ecological fragility\, resilience and the shifting nature of landscape\, extending traditional print processes across new materials and forms. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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-war-memorabilia/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Fundraiser,Important Dates,Members,Talk,Twilight Talks,Victorian Seniors Festival ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/square-promo-medals-v36.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251031T210000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251031T220000 DTSTAMP:20260610T132820 CREATED:20250923T044958Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250923T051126Z UID:67531-1761944400-1761948000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Minerva's Secrets | Night Tour DESCRIPTION:Lantern Vaults \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 30\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n10:00 am\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n11:00 am\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$25 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Basement* \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Plus bkg. fee \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lantern Vaults \n \n A new immersive installation in the basement of the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute as part of the Ballarat Heritage Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The work is shaped by historical research and guided by the voice of Florence Batten\, the twelve- year-old daughter of William Henry Batten\, Secretary of the Institute\, and based in the early 1870s. As visitors move through the vaults\, her story unfolds through image\, light and sound\, offering a glimpse into early Ballarat and the Batten family’s story. \n \n The installation is built from original artworks created by local artist Amanda Western for this project\, drawing on historical photographs and records of the family\, the Institute and the cultural life of the period. \n \n At its centre is a family closely connected to the Institute\, at a time when access to learning was beginning to open out. The Mechanics’ Institute was founded to bring knowledge within reach of ordinary people\, and this work reflects that shift\, how learning moved beyond a small few and into the wider community. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Experience Schedule \n \n \n \n \n \n Two sessions: 30 May at: 10:00am &  11:00am (aporoximately 25 minute duration). \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n Art for sale \n \n \n \n \n \n \n WH Batten at Desk c1871 | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Minerva | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Auctioneer\, BMI Art Union | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Florence Batten & baby Sarah | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Original artworks from Lantern Vaults will be available for sale with 10% of sales going to the BMI. These funds help support the ongoing committment – To providing a unique place to engage with history\, and a vibrant hub for community events. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tickets $25 per person plus bkg fees. Visitors are to meet in the BMI Foyer. The experience duration is approximately 25 minutes. \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 \n \n \n \n Accessibility: \nMuch of this experience is not wheelchair accessible. The journey to the basements does involve stairs. The tour is not Auslan interpreted\, and the guide does not use any amplification system. Groups will enter dimly lit areas of the building under supervision of the guide. \nBMI Accessibility information can be found at https://ballaratmi.org.au/accessibility  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the artist \n \n \n Amanda Western\n \n \n \n Amanda Western is a visual artist based in Ballarat\, whose work explores the relationship between people and the land. Through printmaking\, I reflect on ecological fragility\, resilience and the shifting nature of landscape\, extending traditional print processes across new materials and forms. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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/minervas-secrets-night-tours-31-oct-25-2/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Fundraiser,Important Dates,Night Tours,Tours,Victorian Seniors Festival ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/received_265285705882698-e1708919200874.jpeg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251031T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251031T200000 DTSTAMP:20260610T132820 CREATED:20250923T045951Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250923T051016Z UID:67550-1761937200-1761940800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Minerva's Secrets | Night Tour DESCRIPTION:Lantern Vaults \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 30\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n10:00 am\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n11:00 am\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$25 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Basement* \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Plus bkg. fee \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lantern Vaults \n \n A new immersive installation in the basement of the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute as part of the Ballarat Heritage Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The work is shaped by historical research and guided by the voice of Florence Batten\, the twelve- year-old daughter of William Henry Batten\, Secretary of the Institute\, and based in the early 1870s. As visitors move through the vaults\, her story unfolds through image\, light and sound\, offering a glimpse into early Ballarat and the Batten family’s story. \n \n The installation is built from original artworks created by local artist Amanda Western for this project\, drawing on historical photographs and records of the family\, the Institute and the cultural life of the period. \n \n At its centre is a family closely connected to the Institute\, at a time when access to learning was beginning to open out. The Mechanics’ Institute was founded to bring knowledge within reach of ordinary people\, and this work reflects that shift\, how learning moved beyond a small few and into the wider community. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Experience Schedule \n \n \n \n \n \n Two sessions: 30 May at: 10:00am &  11:00am (aporoximately 25 minute duration). \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n Art for sale \n \n \n \n \n \n \n WH Batten at Desk c1871 | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Minerva | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Auctioneer\, BMI Art Union | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Florence Batten & baby Sarah | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Original artworks from Lantern Vaults will be available for sale with 10% of sales going to the BMI. These funds help support the ongoing committment – To providing a unique place to engage with history\, and a vibrant hub for community events. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tickets $25 per person plus bkg fees. Visitors are to meet in the BMI Foyer. The experience duration is approximately 25 minutes. \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 \n \n \n \n Accessibility: \nMuch of this experience is not wheelchair accessible. The journey to the basements does involve stairs. The tour is not Auslan interpreted\, and the guide does not use any amplification system. Groups will enter dimly lit areas of the building under supervision of the guide. \nBMI Accessibility information can be found at https://ballaratmi.org.au/accessibility  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the artist \n \n \n Amanda Western\n \n \n \n Amanda Western is a visual artist based in Ballarat\, whose work explores the relationship between people and the land. Through printmaking\, I reflect on ecological fragility\, resilience and the shifting nature of landscape\, extending traditional print processes across new materials and forms. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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/minervas-secrets-night-tours-31-oct-25/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Important Dates,Night Tours,Tours,Victorian Seniors Festival ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/received_908662326866361-e1708918930337.jpeg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251029T173000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251029T183000 DTSTAMP:20260610T132820 CREATED:20250728T043616Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250905T043434Z UID:66385-1761759000-1761762600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Twilight Talks 2025\, Season 4\, Remembrance Day | A Surgeon Commander & A Leading Cook - Ballarat Connections to HMAS Sydney 2 in 1941 DESCRIPTION:Lantern Vaults \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 30\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n10:00 am\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n11:00 am\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$25 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Basement* \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Plus bkg. fee \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lantern Vaults \n \n A new immersive installation in the basement of the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute as part of the Ballarat Heritage Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The work is shaped by historical research and guided by the voice of Florence Batten\, the twelve- year-old daughter of William Henry Batten\, Secretary of the Institute\, and based in the early 1870s. As visitors move through the vaults\, her story unfolds through image\, light and sound\, offering a glimpse into early Ballarat and the Batten family’s story. \n \n The installation is built from original artworks created by local artist Amanda Western for this project\, drawing on historical photographs and records of the family\, the Institute and the cultural life of the period. \n \n At its centre is a family closely connected to the Institute\, at a time when access to learning was beginning to open out. The Mechanics’ Institute was founded to bring knowledge within reach of ordinary people\, and this work reflects that shift\, how learning moved beyond a small few and into the wider community. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Experience Schedule \n \n \n \n \n \n Two sessions: 30 May at: 10:00am &  11:00am (aporoximately 25 minute duration). \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n Art for sale \n \n \n \n \n \n \n WH Batten at Desk c1871 | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Minerva | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Auctioneer\, BMI Art Union | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Florence Batten & baby Sarah | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Original artworks from Lantern Vaults will be available for sale with 10% of sales going to the BMI. These funds help support the ongoing committment – To providing a unique place to engage with history\, and a vibrant hub for community events. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tickets $25 per person plus bkg fees. Visitors are to meet in the BMI Foyer. The experience duration is approximately 25 minutes. \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 \n \n \n \n Accessibility: \nMuch of this experience is not wheelchair accessible. The journey to the basements does involve stairs. The tour is not Auslan interpreted\, and the guide does not use any amplification system. Groups will enter dimly lit areas of the building under supervision of the guide. \nBMI Accessibility information can be found at https://ballaratmi.org.au/accessibility  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the artist \n \n \n Amanda Western\n \n \n \n Amanda Western is a visual artist based in Ballarat\, whose work explores the relationship between people and the land. Through printmaking\, I reflect on ecological fragility\, resilience and the shifting nature of landscape\, extending traditional print processes across new materials and forms. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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-surgeon-commander-leading-cook/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Fundraiser,Important Dates,Members,Talk,Twilight Talks,Victorian Seniors Festival ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/hmas-sydney-2.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251026T100000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251026T160000 DTSTAMP:20260610T132820 CREATED:20250903T045545Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250930T013159Z UID:67296-1761472800-1761494400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Linen and Lace: An exhibition through the decades DESCRIPTION:Lantern Vaults \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 30\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n10:00 am\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n11:00 am\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$25 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Basement* \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Plus bkg. fee \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lantern Vaults \n \n A new immersive installation in the basement of the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute as part of the Ballarat Heritage Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The work is shaped by historical research and guided by the voice of Florence Batten\, the twelve- year-old daughter of William Henry Batten\, Secretary of the Institute\, and based in the early 1870s. As visitors move through the vaults\, her story unfolds through image\, light and sound\, offering a glimpse into early Ballarat and the Batten family’s story. \n \n The installation is built from original artworks created by local artist Amanda Western for this project\, drawing on historical photographs and records of the family\, the Institute and the cultural life of the period. \n \n At its centre is a family closely connected to the Institute\, at a time when access to learning was beginning to open out. The Mechanics’ Institute was founded to bring knowledge within reach of ordinary people\, and this work reflects that shift\, how learning moved beyond a small few and into the wider community. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Experience Schedule \n \n \n \n \n \n Two sessions: 30 May at: 10:00am &  11:00am (aporoximately 25 minute duration). \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n Art for sale \n \n \n \n \n \n \n WH Batten at Desk c1871 | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Minerva | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Auctioneer\, BMI Art Union | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Florence Batten & baby Sarah | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Original artworks from Lantern Vaults will be available for sale with 10% of sales going to the BMI. These funds help support the ongoing committment – To providing a unique place to engage with history\, and a vibrant hub for community events. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tickets $25 per person plus bkg fees. Visitors are to meet in the BMI Foyer. The experience duration is approximately 25 minutes. \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 \n \n \n \n Accessibility: \nMuch of this experience is not wheelchair accessible. The journey to the basements does involve stairs. The tour is not Auslan interpreted\, and the guide does not use any amplification system. Groups will enter dimly lit areas of the building under supervision of the guide. \nBMI Accessibility information can be found at https://ballaratmi.org.au/accessibility  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the artist \n \n \n Amanda Western\n \n \n \n Amanda Western is a visual artist based in Ballarat\, whose work explores the relationship between people and the land. Through printmaking\, I reflect on ecological fragility\, resilience and the shifting nature of landscape\, extending traditional print processes across new materials and forms. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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/linen-and-lace-fundraiser-2/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Art programs,Fundraiser,Important Dates,Members,Victorian Seniors Festival ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/linen-and-lace-sq-promo-v3.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251025T100000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251025T160000 DTSTAMP:20260610T132820 CREATED:20250805T043957Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250922T061603Z UID:66614-1761386400-1761408000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Linen and Lace: An exhibition through the decades DESCRIPTION:Lantern Vaults \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 30\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n10:00 am\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n11:00 am\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$25 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Basement* \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Plus bkg. fee \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lantern Vaults \n \n A new immersive installation in the basement of the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute as part of the Ballarat Heritage Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The work is shaped by historical research and guided by the voice of Florence Batten\, the twelve- year-old daughter of William Henry Batten\, Secretary of the Institute\, and based in the early 1870s. As visitors move through the vaults\, her story unfolds through image\, light and sound\, offering a glimpse into early Ballarat and the Batten family’s story. \n \n The installation is built from original artworks created by local artist Amanda Western for this project\, drawing on historical photographs and records of the family\, the Institute and the cultural life of the period. \n \n At its centre is a family closely connected to the Institute\, at a time when access to learning was beginning to open out. The Mechanics’ Institute was founded to bring knowledge within reach of ordinary people\, and this work reflects that shift\, how learning moved beyond a small few and into the wider community. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Experience Schedule \n \n \n \n \n \n Two sessions: 30 May at: 10:00am &  11:00am (aporoximately 25 minute duration). \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n Art for sale \n \n \n \n \n \n \n WH Batten at Desk c1871 | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Minerva | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Auctioneer\, BMI Art Union | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Florence Batten & baby Sarah | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Original artworks from Lantern Vaults will be available for sale with 10% of sales going to the BMI. These funds help support the ongoing committment – To providing a unique place to engage with history\, and a vibrant hub for community events. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tickets $25 per person plus bkg fees. Visitors are to meet in the BMI Foyer. The experience duration is approximately 25 minutes. \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 \n \n \n \n Accessibility: \nMuch of this experience is not wheelchair accessible. The journey to the basements does involve stairs. The tour is not Auslan interpreted\, and the guide does not use any amplification system. Groups will enter dimly lit areas of the building under supervision of the guide. \nBMI Accessibility information can be found at https://ballaratmi.org.au/accessibility  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the artist \n \n \n Amanda Western\n \n \n \n Amanda Western is a visual artist based in Ballarat\, whose work explores the relationship between people and the land. Through printmaking\, I reflect on ecological fragility\, resilience and the shifting nature of landscape\, extending traditional print processes across new materials and forms. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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/linen-and-lace-fundraiser/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Art programs,Fundraiser,Important Dates,Members,Urban Agriculture Month,Victorian Seniors Festival ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/linen-and-lace-sq-promo-v3-1.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250924T173000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250924T183000 DTSTAMP:20260610T132821 CREATED:20250728T042702Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250828T045221Z UID:66380-1758735000-1758738600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Twilight Talks 2025\, Season 3\, Spring Season | Gold! Gold! Bendigo - Ballarat DESCRIPTION:Lantern Vaults \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 30\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n10:00 am\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n11:00 am\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$25 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Basement* \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Plus bkg. fee \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lantern Vaults \n \n A new immersive installation in the basement of the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute as part of the Ballarat Heritage Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The work is shaped by historical research and guided by the voice of Florence Batten\, the twelve- year-old daughter of William Henry Batten\, Secretary of the Institute\, and based in the early 1870s. As visitors move through the vaults\, her story unfolds through image\, light and sound\, offering a glimpse into early Ballarat and the Batten family’s story. \n \n The installation is built from original artworks created by local artist Amanda Western for this project\, drawing on historical photographs and records of the family\, the Institute and the cultural life of the period. \n \n At its centre is a family closely connected to the Institute\, at a time when access to learning was beginning to open out. The Mechanics’ Institute was founded to bring knowledge within reach of ordinary people\, and this work reflects that shift\, how learning moved beyond a small few and into the wider community. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Experience Schedule \n \n \n \n \n \n Two sessions: 30 May at: 10:00am &  11:00am (aporoximately 25 minute duration). \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n Art for sale \n \n \n \n \n \n \n WH Batten at Desk c1871 | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Minerva | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Auctioneer\, BMI Art Union | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Florence Batten & baby Sarah | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Original artworks from Lantern Vaults will be available for sale with 10% of sales going to the BMI. These funds help support the ongoing committment – To providing a unique place to engage with history\, and a vibrant hub for community events. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tickets $25 per person plus bkg fees. Visitors are to meet in the BMI Foyer. The experience duration is approximately 25 minutes. \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 \n \n \n \n Accessibility: \nMuch of this experience is not wheelchair accessible. The journey to the basements does involve stairs. The tour is not Auslan interpreted\, and the guide does not use any amplification system. Groups will enter dimly lit areas of the building under supervision of the guide. \nBMI Accessibility information can be found at https://ballaratmi.org.au/accessibility  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the artist \n \n \n Amanda Western\n \n \n \n Amanda Western is a visual artist based in Ballarat\, whose work explores the relationship between people and the land. Through printmaking\, I reflect on ecological fragility\, resilience and the shifting nature of landscape\, extending traditional print processes across new materials and forms. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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-gold-gold/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Fundraiser,Important Dates,Members,Talk,Twilight Talks ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/square-promo-20253.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250917T173000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250917T183000 DTSTAMP:20260610T132821 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:Lantern Vaults \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 30\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n10:00 am\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n11:00 am\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$25 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Basement* \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Plus bkg. fee \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lantern Vaults \n \n A new immersive installation in the basement of the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute as part of the Ballarat Heritage Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The work is shaped by historical research and guided by the voice of Florence Batten\, the twelve- year-old daughter of William Henry Batten\, Secretary of the Institute\, and based in the early 1870s. As visitors move through the vaults\, her story unfolds through image\, light and sound\, offering a glimpse into early Ballarat and the Batten family’s story. \n \n The installation is built from original artworks created by local artist Amanda Western for this project\, drawing on historical photographs and records of the family\, the Institute and the cultural life of the period. \n \n At its centre is a family closely connected to the Institute\, at a time when access to learning was beginning to open out. The Mechanics’ Institute was founded to bring knowledge within reach of ordinary people\, and this work reflects that shift\, how learning moved beyond a small few and into the wider community. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Experience Schedule \n \n \n \n \n \n Two sessions: 30 May at: 10:00am &  11:00am (aporoximately 25 minute duration). \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n Art for sale \n \n \n \n \n \n \n WH Batten at Desk c1871 | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Minerva | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Auctioneer\, BMI Art Union | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Florence Batten & baby Sarah | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Original artworks from Lantern Vaults will be available for sale with 10% of sales going to the BMI. These funds help support the ongoing committment – To providing a unique place to engage with history\, and a vibrant hub for community events. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tickets $25 per person plus bkg fees. Visitors are to meet in the BMI Foyer. The experience duration is approximately 25 minutes. \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 \n \n \n \n Accessibility: \nMuch of this experience is not wheelchair accessible. The journey to the basements does involve stairs. The tour is not Auslan interpreted\, and the guide does not use any amplification system. Groups will enter dimly lit areas of the building under supervision of the guide. \nBMI Accessibility information can be found at https://ballaratmi.org.au/accessibility  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the artist \n \n \n Amanda Western\n \n \n \n Amanda Western is a visual artist based in Ballarat\, whose work explores the relationship between people and the land. Through printmaking\, I reflect on ecological fragility\, resilience and the shifting nature of landscape\, extending traditional print processes across new materials and forms. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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:20250914T140000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250914T160000 DTSTAMP:20260610T132821 CREATED:20250805T063244Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250828T023211Z UID:66629-1757858400-1757865600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Fashion Parade Fundraiser | Vintage & Preloved Clothing Shop DESCRIPTION:Lantern Vaults \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 30\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n10:00 am\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n11:00 am\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$25 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Basement* \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Plus bkg. fee \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lantern Vaults \n \n A new immersive installation in the basement of the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute as part of the Ballarat Heritage Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The work is shaped by historical research and guided by the voice of Florence Batten\, the twelve- year-old daughter of William Henry Batten\, Secretary of the Institute\, and based in the early 1870s. As visitors move through the vaults\, her story unfolds through image\, light and sound\, offering a glimpse into early Ballarat and the Batten family’s story. \n \n The installation is built from original artworks created by local artist Amanda Western for this project\, drawing on historical photographs and records of the family\, the Institute and the cultural life of the period. \n \n At its centre is a family closely connected to the Institute\, at a time when access to learning was beginning to open out. The Mechanics’ Institute was founded to bring knowledge within reach of ordinary people\, and this work reflects that shift\, how learning moved beyond a small few and into the wider community. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Experience Schedule \n \n \n \n \n \n Two sessions: 30 May at: 10:00am &  11:00am (aporoximately 25 minute duration). \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n Art for sale \n \n \n \n \n \n \n WH Batten at Desk c1871 | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Minerva | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Auctioneer\, BMI Art Union | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Florence Batten & baby Sarah | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Original artworks from Lantern Vaults will be available for sale with 10% of sales going to the BMI. These funds help support the ongoing committment – To providing a unique place to engage with history\, and a vibrant hub for community events. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tickets $25 per person plus bkg fees. Visitors are to meet in the BMI Foyer. The experience duration is approximately 25 minutes. \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 \n \n \n \n Accessibility: \nMuch of this experience is not wheelchair accessible. The journey to the basements does involve stairs. The tour is not Auslan interpreted\, and the guide does not use any amplification system. Groups will enter dimly lit areas of the building under supervision of the guide. \nBMI Accessibility information can be found at https://ballaratmi.org.au/accessibility  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the artist \n \n \n Amanda Western\n \n \n \n Amanda Western is a visual artist based in Ballarat\, whose work explores the relationship between people and the land. Through printmaking\, I reflect on ecological fragility\, resilience and the shifting nature of landscape\, extending traditional print processes across new materials and forms. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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/vintage-collectables-fasion-parade-25/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Fundraiser,Important Dates,Members,Vintage & Collectables ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/promotional-square-2.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250904T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250904T190000 DTSTAMP:20260610T132821 CREATED:20250603T000019Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250826T233613Z UID:64998-1757008800-1757012400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Tracey Lee Holmes: A Life Through Sport DESCRIPTION:Lantern Vaults \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 30\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n10:00 am\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n11:00 am\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$25 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Basement* \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Plus bkg. fee \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lantern Vaults \n \n A new immersive installation in the basement of the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute as part of the Ballarat Heritage Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The work is shaped by historical research and guided by the voice of Florence Batten\, the twelve- year-old daughter of William Henry Batten\, Secretary of the Institute\, and based in the early 1870s. As visitors move through the vaults\, her story unfolds through image\, light and sound\, offering a glimpse into early Ballarat and the Batten family’s story. \n \n The installation is built from original artworks created by local artist Amanda Western for this project\, drawing on historical photographs and records of the family\, the Institute and the cultural life of the period. \n \n At its centre is a family closely connected to the Institute\, at a time when access to learning was beginning to open out. The Mechanics’ Institute was founded to bring knowledge within reach of ordinary people\, and this work reflects that shift\, how learning moved beyond a small few and into the wider community. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Experience Schedule \n \n \n \n \n \n Two sessions: 30 May at: 10:00am &  11:00am (aporoximately 25 minute duration). \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n Art for sale \n \n \n \n \n \n \n WH Batten at Desk c1871 | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Minerva | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Auctioneer\, BMI Art Union | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Florence Batten & baby Sarah | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Original artworks from Lantern Vaults will be available for sale with 10% of sales going to the BMI. These funds help support the ongoing committment – To providing a unique place to engage with history\, and a vibrant hub for community events. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tickets $25 per person plus bkg fees. Visitors are to meet in the BMI Foyer. The experience duration is approximately 25 minutes. \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 \n \n \n \n Accessibility: \nMuch of this experience is not wheelchair accessible. The journey to the basements does involve stairs. The tour is not Auslan interpreted\, and the guide does not use any amplification system. Groups will enter dimly lit areas of the building under supervision of the guide. \nBMI Accessibility information can be found at https://ballaratmi.org.au/accessibility  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the artist \n \n \n Amanda Western\n \n \n \n Amanda Western is a visual artist based in Ballarat\, whose work explores the relationship between people and the land. Through printmaking\, I reflect on ecological fragility\, resilience and the shifting nature of landscape\, extending traditional print processes across new materials and forms. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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:20250903T173000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250903T183000 DTSTAMP:20260610T132821 CREATED:20250728T035749Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250826T031406Z UID:66371-1756920600-1756924200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Twilight Talks 2025\, Season 3\, Spring Season | Ballarat's Henry Lawson\, Unknown facts presented by Hedley Thomson DESCRIPTION:Lantern Vaults \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 30\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n10:00 am\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n11:00 am\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$25 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Basement* \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Plus bkg. fee \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lantern Vaults \n \n A new immersive installation in the basement of the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute as part of the Ballarat Heritage Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The work is shaped by historical research and guided by the voice of Florence Batten\, the twelve- year-old daughter of William Henry Batten\, Secretary of the Institute\, and based in the early 1870s. As visitors move through the vaults\, her story unfolds through image\, light and sound\, offering a glimpse into early Ballarat and the Batten family’s story. \n \n The installation is built from original artworks created by local artist Amanda Western for this project\, drawing on historical photographs and records of the family\, the Institute and the cultural life of the period. \n \n At its centre is a family closely connected to the Institute\, at a time when access to learning was beginning to open out. The Mechanics’ Institute was founded to bring knowledge within reach of ordinary people\, and this work reflects that shift\, how learning moved beyond a small few and into the wider community. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Experience Schedule \n \n \n \n \n \n Two sessions: 30 May at: 10:00am &  11:00am (aporoximately 25 minute duration). \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n Art for sale \n \n \n \n \n \n \n WH Batten at Desk c1871 | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Minerva | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Auctioneer\, BMI Art Union | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Florence Batten & baby Sarah | Amanda Western\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Original artworks from Lantern Vaults will be available for sale with 10% of sales going to the BMI. These funds help support the ongoing committment – To providing a unique place to engage with history\, and a vibrant hub for community events. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tickets $25 per person plus bkg fees. Visitors are to meet in the BMI Foyer. The experience duration is approximately 25 minutes. \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 \n \n \n \n Accessibility: \nMuch of this experience is not wheelchair accessible. The journey to the basements does involve stairs. The tour is not Auslan interpreted\, and the guide does not use any amplification system. Groups will enter dimly lit areas of the building under supervision of the guide. \nBMI Accessibility information can be found at https://ballaratmi.org.au/accessibility  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the artist \n \n \n Amanda Western\n \n \n \n Amanda Western is a visual artist based in Ballarat\, whose work explores the relationship between people and the land. Through printmaking\, I reflect on ecological fragility\, resilience and the shifting nature of landscape\, extending traditional print processes across new materials and forms. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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-henry-lawson/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Fundraiser,Important Dates,Members,Talk,Twilight Talks ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/square-promo-2025.webp END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR