BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute - ECPv6.15.19//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:20230401T160000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+1000 TZOFFSETTO:+1100 TZNAME:AEDT DTSTART:20230930T160000 END:DAYLIGHT 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 END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240501T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240501T200000 DTSTAMP:20260408T151127 CREATED:20240320T040939Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240502T012239Z UID:52555-1714586400-1714593600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Twilight Talks 2024\, Season 2\, Session 2 | Not the Last Picture Show: The Lost City of Melbourne DESCRIPTION:Author Talk | Ella Stone – ‘Breakfast With You’ | Now CANCELLED \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n July 8\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.78 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n TBA \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ella Stone \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Breakfast With You \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Breakfast WIth You | Ella Stone\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The plan is simple. Nicole will return to her hometown of Riverbanks for the funeral and provide a eulogy for a father she no longer knows.Afterwards\, she will slip back to Sydney where she’ll wear the infamous Diamond Dress to the most prestigious fashion event of the year\, and she and Eddie—her life-long partner—will live happily ever after. Simple. What could possibly go wrong? The answer: Cameron Barrinson\, her ex from long ago. And\, of course\, there is that pesky little secret she swore to never tell another soul about. But\, other than that—all will be easy\, right? Will her arrival be as straightforward as she hopes\, or will it shake loose old friendships and rekindle a love that should never have ended? ** Ella Stone is a pen name of J.S. Davidson and is used for all her drama / romance books. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n \n Ballarat-based author Jan Davidson\, 37\, is no stranger to challenges. Born with physical deformities\, Jan spent much of her childhood at Melbourne’s Royal Children’s Hospital. Yet\, from those early struggles emerged a remarkable talent and voice that now speaks to readers through stories that span magical realms and the rich tapestry of everyday Australian life.“It was really boring as a kid\,” Jan laughs\, reflecting on her years in the hospital. “Netflix didn’t exist back then — so I only had my imagination to entertain me.”What began as a way to escape the sterile hospital walls became the foundation for a writing career that bridges two very different\, yet equally compelling\, genres.Jan is the creative force behind the gripping Urban Fantasy series ‘The Aztec Saga’\, Hunted and Tethered\, published under the pen name J.S. Davidson\, and the deeply human Australian Drama series ‘With You’\, Breakfast With You and the soon-to-be-released Finding Me With You\, written under the name Ella Stone. When asked why she writes across such different genres\, her answer is simple: “I’d get bored sticking to just one.”She likens the contrast between the two styles to the shift from adventure to comfort. “Urban fantasy is a challenge\, an adventure\,” she explains. “Whereas Australian drama is like slipping cozy slippers on after a freezing day of being outside.” It’s that balance — between escapism and realism\, challenge and comfort — that gives Jan’s work a unique and captivating voice.At home in Ballarat\, Jan shares her life with her husband John and their two teenage children\, Samuel and Phoebe. Her writing life is closely woven into her family’s world\, one that’s grounded in care\, creativity\, and community. The Davidsons have long been active in local volunteer groups\, committed to giving back to the community that has supported them over the years.Jan’s story is a powerful reminder of how creativity can flourish in the most unexpected places — and how resilience\, imagination\, and heart can turn adversity into art. With more stories on the horizon and her latest drama ready to launch\, readers can expect to hear much more from this talented and deeply grounded writer.Whether she’s crafting tales of magic and danger or exploring the quiet heroism of everyday life\, Jan Davidson — as J.S. Davidson or Ella Stone — writes with authenticity and heart. And the world is better for it. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is part of Ballarat Winter Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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-lost-city-of-melbourne/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Australian Heritage Festival,Fundraiser,Twilight Talks,Twilight Talks Heritage Festivals ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Screenshot-2024-04-08-113519-e1712542090741.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240502T173000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240509T223000 DTSTAMP:20260408T151127 CREATED:20240516T002034Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240516T002036Z UID:54710-1714671000-1715293800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Ballarat Chess Club DESCRIPTION:Author Talk | Ella Stone – ‘Breakfast With You’ | Now CANCELLED \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n July 8\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.78 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n TBA \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ella Stone \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Breakfast With You \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Breakfast WIth You | Ella Stone\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The plan is simple. Nicole will return to her hometown of Riverbanks for the funeral and provide a eulogy for a father she no longer knows.Afterwards\, she will slip back to Sydney where she’ll wear the infamous Diamond Dress to the most prestigious fashion event of the year\, and she and Eddie—her life-long partner—will live happily ever after. Simple. What could possibly go wrong? The answer: Cameron Barrinson\, her ex from long ago. And\, of course\, there is that pesky little secret she swore to never tell another soul about. But\, other than that—all will be easy\, right? Will her arrival be as straightforward as she hopes\, or will it shake loose old friendships and rekindle a love that should never have ended? ** Ella Stone is a pen name of J.S. Davidson and is used for all her drama / romance books. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n \n Ballarat-based author Jan Davidson\, 37\, is no stranger to challenges. Born with physical deformities\, Jan spent much of her childhood at Melbourne’s Royal Children’s Hospital. Yet\, from those early struggles emerged a remarkable talent and voice that now speaks to readers through stories that span magical realms and the rich tapestry of everyday Australian life.“It was really boring as a kid\,” Jan laughs\, reflecting on her years in the hospital. “Netflix didn’t exist back then — so I only had my imagination to entertain me.”What began as a way to escape the sterile hospital walls became the foundation for a writing career that bridges two very different\, yet equally compelling\, genres.Jan is the creative force behind the gripping Urban Fantasy series ‘The Aztec Saga’\, Hunted and Tethered\, published under the pen name J.S. Davidson\, and the deeply human Australian Drama series ‘With You’\, Breakfast With You and the soon-to-be-released Finding Me With You\, written under the name Ella Stone. When asked why she writes across such different genres\, her answer is simple: “I’d get bored sticking to just one.”She likens the contrast between the two styles to the shift from adventure to comfort. “Urban fantasy is a challenge\, an adventure\,” she explains. “Whereas Australian drama is like slipping cozy slippers on after a freezing day of being outside.” It’s that balance — between escapism and realism\, challenge and comfort — that gives Jan’s work a unique and captivating voice.At home in Ballarat\, Jan shares her life with her husband John and their two teenage children\, Samuel and Phoebe. Her writing life is closely woven into her family’s world\, one that’s grounded in care\, creativity\, and community. The Davidsons have long been active in local volunteer groups\, committed to giving back to the community that has supported them over the years.Jan’s story is a powerful reminder of how creativity can flourish in the most unexpected places — and how resilience\, imagination\, and heart can turn adversity into art. With more stories on the horizon and her latest drama ready to launch\, readers can expect to hear much more from this talented and deeply grounded writer.Whether she’s crafting tales of magic and danger or exploring the quiet heroism of everyday life\, Jan Davidson — as J.S. Davidson or Ella Stone — writes with authenticity and heart. And the world is better for it. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is part of Ballarat Winter Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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-chess-club-may-24-2/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Ballarat Chess Club ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/ballarat-chess-club-square-with-boarder.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240508T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240508T190000 DTSTAMP:20260408T151127 CREATED:20240320T042937Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250325T162657Z UID:52570-1715191200-1715194800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Twilight Talks 2024\, Season 2\, Session 3 | Not the Last Picture Show: Moving Pictures at the BMI DESCRIPTION:Author Talk | Ella Stone – ‘Breakfast With You’ | Now CANCELLED \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n July 8\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.78 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n TBA \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ella Stone \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Breakfast With You \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Breakfast WIth You | Ella Stone\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The plan is simple. Nicole will return to her hometown of Riverbanks for the funeral and provide a eulogy for a father she no longer knows.Afterwards\, she will slip back to Sydney where she’ll wear the infamous Diamond Dress to the most prestigious fashion event of the year\, and she and Eddie—her life-long partner—will live happily ever after. Simple. What could possibly go wrong? The answer: Cameron Barrinson\, her ex from long ago. And\, of course\, there is that pesky little secret she swore to never tell another soul about. But\, other than that—all will be easy\, right? Will her arrival be as straightforward as she hopes\, or will it shake loose old friendships and rekindle a love that should never have ended? ** Ella Stone is a pen name of J.S. Davidson and is used for all her drama / romance books. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n \n Ballarat-based author Jan Davidson\, 37\, is no stranger to challenges. Born with physical deformities\, Jan spent much of her childhood at Melbourne’s Royal Children’s Hospital. Yet\, from those early struggles emerged a remarkable talent and voice that now speaks to readers through stories that span magical realms and the rich tapestry of everyday Australian life.“It was really boring as a kid\,” Jan laughs\, reflecting on her years in the hospital. “Netflix didn’t exist back then — so I only had my imagination to entertain me.”What began as a way to escape the sterile hospital walls became the foundation for a writing career that bridges two very different\, yet equally compelling\, genres.Jan is the creative force behind the gripping Urban Fantasy series ‘The Aztec Saga’\, Hunted and Tethered\, published under the pen name J.S. Davidson\, and the deeply human Australian Drama series ‘With You’\, Breakfast With You and the soon-to-be-released Finding Me With You\, written under the name Ella Stone. When asked why she writes across such different genres\, her answer is simple: “I’d get bored sticking to just one.”She likens the contrast between the two styles to the shift from adventure to comfort. “Urban fantasy is a challenge\, an adventure\,” she explains. “Whereas Australian drama is like slipping cozy slippers on after a freezing day of being outside.” It’s that balance — between escapism and realism\, challenge and comfort — that gives Jan’s work a unique and captivating voice.At home in Ballarat\, Jan shares her life with her husband John and their two teenage children\, Samuel and Phoebe. Her writing life is closely woven into her family’s world\, one that’s grounded in care\, creativity\, and community. The Davidsons have long been active in local volunteer groups\, committed to giving back to the community that has supported them over the years.Jan’s story is a powerful reminder of how creativity can flourish in the most unexpected places — and how resilience\, imagination\, and heart can turn adversity into art. With more stories on the horizon and her latest drama ready to launch\, readers can expect to hear much more from this talented and deeply grounded writer.Whether she’s crafting tales of magic and danger or exploring the quiet heroism of everyday life\, Jan Davidson — as J.S. Davidson or Ella Stone — writes with authenticity and heart. And the world is better for it. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is part of Ballarat Winter Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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-not-the-last-picture-show-3/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Australian Heritage Festival,Fundraiser,Twilight Talks,Twilight Talks Heritage Festivals ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Mechanics-Institute-8.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240509T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240509T210000 DTSTAMP:20260408T151128 CREATED:20240129T230207Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240130T061425Z UID:50577-1715283000-1715288400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Ballart Film Society | Shayda DESCRIPTION:Author Talk | Ella Stone – ‘Breakfast With You’ | Now CANCELLED \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n July 8\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.78 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n TBA \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ella Stone \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Breakfast With You \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Breakfast WIth You | Ella Stone\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The plan is simple. Nicole will return to her hometown of Riverbanks for the funeral and provide a eulogy for a father she no longer knows.Afterwards\, she will slip back to Sydney where she’ll wear the infamous Diamond Dress to the most prestigious fashion event of the year\, and she and Eddie—her life-long partner—will live happily ever after. Simple. What could possibly go wrong? The answer: Cameron Barrinson\, her ex from long ago. And\, of course\, there is that pesky little secret she swore to never tell another soul about. But\, other than that—all will be easy\, right? Will her arrival be as straightforward as she hopes\, or will it shake loose old friendships and rekindle a love that should never have ended? ** Ella Stone is a pen name of J.S. Davidson and is used for all her drama / romance books. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n \n Ballarat-based author Jan Davidson\, 37\, is no stranger to challenges. Born with physical deformities\, Jan spent much of her childhood at Melbourne’s Royal Children’s Hospital. Yet\, from those early struggles emerged a remarkable talent and voice that now speaks to readers through stories that span magical realms and the rich tapestry of everyday Australian life.“It was really boring as a kid\,” Jan laughs\, reflecting on her years in the hospital. “Netflix didn’t exist back then — so I only had my imagination to entertain me.”What began as a way to escape the sterile hospital walls became the foundation for a writing career that bridges two very different\, yet equally compelling\, genres.Jan is the creative force behind the gripping Urban Fantasy series ‘The Aztec Saga’\, Hunted and Tethered\, published under the pen name J.S. Davidson\, and the deeply human Australian Drama series ‘With You’\, Breakfast With You and the soon-to-be-released Finding Me With You\, written under the name Ella Stone. When asked why she writes across such different genres\, her answer is simple: “I’d get bored sticking to just one.”She likens the contrast between the two styles to the shift from adventure to comfort. “Urban fantasy is a challenge\, an adventure\,” she explains. “Whereas Australian drama is like slipping cozy slippers on after a freezing day of being outside.” It’s that balance — between escapism and realism\, challenge and comfort — that gives Jan’s work a unique and captivating voice.At home in Ballarat\, Jan shares her life with her husband John and their two teenage children\, Samuel and Phoebe. Her writing life is closely woven into her family’s world\, one that’s grounded in care\, creativity\, and community. The Davidsons have long been active in local volunteer groups\, committed to giving back to the community that has supported them over the years.Jan’s story is a powerful reminder of how creativity can flourish in the most unexpected places — and how resilience\, imagination\, and heart can turn adversity into art. With more stories on the horizon and her latest drama ready to launch\, readers can expect to hear much more from this talented and deeply grounded writer.Whether she’s crafting tales of magic and danger or exploring the quiet heroism of everyday life\, Jan Davidson — as J.S. Davidson or Ella Stone — writes with authenticity and heart. And the world is better for it. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is part of Ballarat Winter Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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/bfs-shayda/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Ballarat Film Society,Externally Produced Event,Film ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/shayda-new-e1706569634223.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240512T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240512T230000 DTSTAMP:20260408T151128 CREATED:20240509T021800Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250325T142652Z UID:54523-1715542200-1715554800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Rock 'n' Roll with our Stars (Dancing with our Stars 24): Featuring James Bookman DESCRIPTION:Author Talk | Ella Stone – ‘Breakfast With You’ | Now CANCELLED \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n July 8\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.78 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n TBA \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ella Stone \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Breakfast With You \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Breakfast WIth You | Ella Stone\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The plan is simple. Nicole will return to her hometown of Riverbanks for the funeral and provide a eulogy for a father she no longer knows.Afterwards\, she will slip back to Sydney where she’ll wear the infamous Diamond Dress to the most prestigious fashion event of the year\, and she and Eddie—her life-long partner—will live happily ever after. Simple. What could possibly go wrong? The answer: Cameron Barrinson\, her ex from long ago. And\, of course\, there is that pesky little secret she swore to never tell another soul about. But\, other than that—all will be easy\, right? Will her arrival be as straightforward as she hopes\, or will it shake loose old friendships and rekindle a love that should never have ended? ** Ella Stone is a pen name of J.S. Davidson and is used for all her drama / romance books. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n \n Ballarat-based author Jan Davidson\, 37\, is no stranger to challenges. Born with physical deformities\, Jan spent much of her childhood at Melbourne’s Royal Children’s Hospital. Yet\, from those early struggles emerged a remarkable talent and voice that now speaks to readers through stories that span magical realms and the rich tapestry of everyday Australian life.“It was really boring as a kid\,” Jan laughs\, reflecting on her years in the hospital. “Netflix didn’t exist back then — so I only had my imagination to entertain me.”What began as a way to escape the sterile hospital walls became the foundation for a writing career that bridges two very different\, yet equally compelling\, genres.Jan is the creative force behind the gripping Urban Fantasy series ‘The Aztec Saga’\, Hunted and Tethered\, published under the pen name J.S. Davidson\, and the deeply human Australian Drama series ‘With You’\, Breakfast With You and the soon-to-be-released Finding Me With You\, written under the name Ella Stone. When asked why she writes across such different genres\, her answer is simple: “I’d get bored sticking to just one.”She likens the contrast between the two styles to the shift from adventure to comfort. “Urban fantasy is a challenge\, an adventure\,” she explains. “Whereas Australian drama is like slipping cozy slippers on after a freezing day of being outside.” It’s that balance — between escapism and realism\, challenge and comfort — that gives Jan’s work a unique and captivating voice.At home in Ballarat\, Jan shares her life with her husband John and their two teenage children\, Samuel and Phoebe. Her writing life is closely woven into her family’s world\, one that’s grounded in care\, creativity\, and community. The Davidsons have long been active in local volunteer groups\, committed to giving back to the community that has supported them over the years.Jan’s story is a powerful reminder of how creativity can flourish in the most unexpected places — and how resilience\, imagination\, and heart can turn adversity into art. With more stories on the horizon and her latest drama ready to launch\, readers can expect to hear much more from this talented and deeply grounded writer.Whether she’s crafting tales of magic and danger or exploring the quiet heroism of everyday life\, Jan Davidson — as J.S. Davidson or Ella Stone — writes with authenticity and heart. And the world is better for it. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is part of Ballarat Winter Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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/rock-n-roll-with-our-stars/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Externally Produced Event,Royal South Street Society ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/436237221_122115281810263532_8541844015808598287_n.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240515T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240515T190000 DTSTAMP:20260408T151128 CREATED:20240320T035525Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250325T142907Z UID:52537-1715796000-1715799600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Twilight Talks 2024\, Season 2\, Session 4 | THIS EVENT HAS NOW BEEN CANCELLED DESCRIPTION:Author Talk | Ella Stone – ‘Breakfast With You’ | Now CANCELLED \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n July 8\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.78 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n TBA \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ella Stone \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Breakfast With You \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Breakfast WIth You | Ella Stone\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The plan is simple. Nicole will return to her hometown of Riverbanks for the funeral and provide a eulogy for a father she no longer knows.Afterwards\, she will slip back to Sydney where she’ll wear the infamous Diamond Dress to the most prestigious fashion event of the year\, and she and Eddie—her life-long partner—will live happily ever after. Simple. What could possibly go wrong? The answer: Cameron Barrinson\, her ex from long ago. And\, of course\, there is that pesky little secret she swore to never tell another soul about. But\, other than that—all will be easy\, right? Will her arrival be as straightforward as she hopes\, or will it shake loose old friendships and rekindle a love that should never have ended? ** Ella Stone is a pen name of J.S. Davidson and is used for all her drama / romance books. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n \n Ballarat-based author Jan Davidson\, 37\, is no stranger to challenges. Born with physical deformities\, Jan spent much of her childhood at Melbourne’s Royal Children’s Hospital. Yet\, from those early struggles emerged a remarkable talent and voice that now speaks to readers through stories that span magical realms and the rich tapestry of everyday Australian life.“It was really boring as a kid\,” Jan laughs\, reflecting on her years in the hospital. “Netflix didn’t exist back then — so I only had my imagination to entertain me.”What began as a way to escape the sterile hospital walls became the foundation for a writing career that bridges two very different\, yet equally compelling\, genres.Jan is the creative force behind the gripping Urban Fantasy series ‘The Aztec Saga’\, Hunted and Tethered\, published under the pen name J.S. Davidson\, and the deeply human Australian Drama series ‘With You’\, Breakfast With You and the soon-to-be-released Finding Me With You\, written under the name Ella Stone. When asked why she writes across such different genres\, her answer is simple: “I’d get bored sticking to just one.”She likens the contrast between the two styles to the shift from adventure to comfort. “Urban fantasy is a challenge\, an adventure\,” she explains. “Whereas Australian drama is like slipping cozy slippers on after a freezing day of being outside.” It’s that balance — between escapism and realism\, challenge and comfort — that gives Jan’s work a unique and captivating voice.At home in Ballarat\, Jan shares her life with her husband John and their two teenage children\, Samuel and Phoebe. Her writing life is closely woven into her family’s world\, one that’s grounded in care\, creativity\, and community. The Davidsons have long been active in local volunteer groups\, committed to giving back to the community that has supported them over the years.Jan’s story is a powerful reminder of how creativity can flourish in the most unexpected places — and how resilience\, imagination\, and heart can turn adversity into art. With more stories on the horizon and her latest drama ready to launch\, readers can expect to hear much more from this talented and deeply grounded writer.Whether she’s crafting tales of magic and danger or exploring the quiet heroism of everyday life\, Jan Davidson — as J.S. Davidson or Ella Stone — writes with authenticity and heart. And the world is better for it. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is part of Ballarat Winter Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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-australian-heritage-festival/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Australian Heritage Festival,Fundraiser,Twilight Talks,Twilight Talks Heritage Festivals ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/City-of-Chaos-and-Hope.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240517T103000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240530T160000 DTSTAMP:20260408T151128 CREATED:20240301T042355Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250325T142940Z UID:51968-1715941800-1717084800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Exhibition | Not the Last Picture Show DESCRIPTION:Author Talk | Ella Stone – ‘Breakfast With You’ | Now CANCELLED \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n July 8\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.78 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n TBA \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ella Stone \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Breakfast With You \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Breakfast WIth You | Ella Stone\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The plan is simple. Nicole will return to her hometown of Riverbanks for the funeral and provide a eulogy for a father she no longer knows.Afterwards\, she will slip back to Sydney where she’ll wear the infamous Diamond Dress to the most prestigious fashion event of the year\, and she and Eddie—her life-long partner—will live happily ever after. Simple. What could possibly go wrong? The answer: Cameron Barrinson\, her ex from long ago. And\, of course\, there is that pesky little secret she swore to never tell another soul about. But\, other than that—all will be easy\, right? Will her arrival be as straightforward as she hopes\, or will it shake loose old friendships and rekindle a love that should never have ended? ** Ella Stone is a pen name of J.S. Davidson and is used for all her drama / romance books. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n \n Ballarat-based author Jan Davidson\, 37\, is no stranger to challenges. Born with physical deformities\, Jan spent much of her childhood at Melbourne’s Royal Children’s Hospital. Yet\, from those early struggles emerged a remarkable talent and voice that now speaks to readers through stories that span magical realms and the rich tapestry of everyday Australian life.“It was really boring as a kid\,” Jan laughs\, reflecting on her years in the hospital. “Netflix didn’t exist back then — so I only had my imagination to entertain me.”What began as a way to escape the sterile hospital walls became the foundation for a writing career that bridges two very different\, yet equally compelling\, genres.Jan is the creative force behind the gripping Urban Fantasy series ‘The Aztec Saga’\, Hunted and Tethered\, published under the pen name J.S. Davidson\, and the deeply human Australian Drama series ‘With You’\, Breakfast With You and the soon-to-be-released Finding Me With You\, written under the name Ella Stone. When asked why she writes across such different genres\, her answer is simple: “I’d get bored sticking to just one.”She likens the contrast between the two styles to the shift from adventure to comfort. “Urban fantasy is a challenge\, an adventure\,” she explains. “Whereas Australian drama is like slipping cozy slippers on after a freezing day of being outside.” It’s that balance — between escapism and realism\, challenge and comfort — that gives Jan’s work a unique and captivating voice.At home in Ballarat\, Jan shares her life with her husband John and their two teenage children\, Samuel and Phoebe. Her writing life is closely woven into her family’s world\, one that’s grounded in care\, creativity\, and community. The Davidsons have long been active in local volunteer groups\, committed to giving back to the community that has supported them over the years.Jan’s story is a powerful reminder of how creativity can flourish in the most unexpected places — and how resilience\, imagination\, and heart can turn adversity into art. With more stories on the horizon and her latest drama ready to launch\, readers can expect to hear much more from this talented and deeply grounded writer.Whether she’s crafting tales of magic and danger or exploring the quiet heroism of everyday life\, Jan Davidson — as J.S. Davidson or Ella Stone — writes with authenticity and heart. And the world is better for it. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is part of Ballarat Winter Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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/exhibition-not-the-last-picture-show/ LOCATION:Hugh Williamson Foyer\, Level 1 CATEGORIES:About us,Art programs,Ballarat Heritage Festival,Culture,Exhibition,Festival,Fundraiser,Twilight Talks,Twilight Talks Heritage Festivals ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/MH94-Coliseum-Grenville-St-Retouched-copy.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240517T103000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240530T160000 DTSTAMP:20260408T151128 CREATED:20240305T031915Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250325T142937Z UID:52073-1715941800-1717084800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Exhibition | Not the Last Picture Show: From the Archives DESCRIPTION:Author Talk | Ella Stone – ‘Breakfast With You’ | Now CANCELLED \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n July 8\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.78 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n TBA \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ella Stone \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Breakfast With You \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Breakfast WIth You | Ella Stone\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The plan is simple. Nicole will return to her hometown of Riverbanks for the funeral and provide a eulogy for a father she no longer knows.Afterwards\, she will slip back to Sydney where she’ll wear the infamous Diamond Dress to the most prestigious fashion event of the year\, and she and Eddie—her life-long partner—will live happily ever after. Simple. What could possibly go wrong? The answer: Cameron Barrinson\, her ex from long ago. And\, of course\, there is that pesky little secret she swore to never tell another soul about. But\, other than that—all will be easy\, right? Will her arrival be as straightforward as she hopes\, or will it shake loose old friendships and rekindle a love that should never have ended? ** Ella Stone is a pen name of J.S. Davidson and is used for all her drama / romance books. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n \n Ballarat-based author Jan Davidson\, 37\, is no stranger to challenges. Born with physical deformities\, Jan spent much of her childhood at Melbourne’s Royal Children’s Hospital. Yet\, from those early struggles emerged a remarkable talent and voice that now speaks to readers through stories that span magical realms and the rich tapestry of everyday Australian life.“It was really boring as a kid\,” Jan laughs\, reflecting on her years in the hospital. “Netflix didn’t exist back then — so I only had my imagination to entertain me.”What began as a way to escape the sterile hospital walls became the foundation for a writing career that bridges two very different\, yet equally compelling\, genres.Jan is the creative force behind the gripping Urban Fantasy series ‘The Aztec Saga’\, Hunted and Tethered\, published under the pen name J.S. Davidson\, and the deeply human Australian Drama series ‘With You’\, Breakfast With You and the soon-to-be-released Finding Me With You\, written under the name Ella Stone. When asked why she writes across such different genres\, her answer is simple: “I’d get bored sticking to just one.”She likens the contrast between the two styles to the shift from adventure to comfort. “Urban fantasy is a challenge\, an adventure\,” she explains. “Whereas Australian drama is like slipping cozy slippers on after a freezing day of being outside.” It’s that balance — between escapism and realism\, challenge and comfort — that gives Jan’s work a unique and captivating voice.At home in Ballarat\, Jan shares her life with her husband John and their two teenage children\, Samuel and Phoebe. Her writing life is closely woven into her family’s world\, one that’s grounded in care\, creativity\, and community. The Davidsons have long been active in local volunteer groups\, committed to giving back to the community that has supported them over the years.Jan’s story is a powerful reminder of how creativity can flourish in the most unexpected places — and how resilience\, imagination\, and heart can turn adversity into art. With more stories on the horizon and her latest drama ready to launch\, readers can expect to hear much more from this talented and deeply grounded writer.Whether she’s crafting tales of magic and danger or exploring the quiet heroism of everyday life\, Jan Davidson — as J.S. Davidson or Ella Stone — writes with authenticity and heart. And the world is better for it. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is part of Ballarat Winter Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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/exhibition-not-the-last-picture-show-archives/ LOCATION:Heritage Reading Room\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:About us,Art programs,Ballarat Heritage Festival,Culture,Exhibition,Fundraiser,Twilight Talks,Twilight Talks Heritage Festivals ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/archives-16-9.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240517T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240517T203000 DTSTAMP:20260408T151128 CREATED:20240226T023808Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240517T011235Z UID:51520-1715974200-1715977800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Minerva's Secrets | Night Tour 1 | This session is now fully booked. DESCRIPTION:Author Talk | Ella Stone – ‘Breakfast With You’ | Now CANCELLED \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n July 8\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.78 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n TBA \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ella Stone \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Breakfast With You \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Breakfast WIth You | Ella Stone\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The plan is simple. Nicole will return to her hometown of Riverbanks for the funeral and provide a eulogy for a father she no longer knows.Afterwards\, she will slip back to Sydney where she’ll wear the infamous Diamond Dress to the most prestigious fashion event of the year\, and she and Eddie—her life-long partner—will live happily ever after. Simple. What could possibly go wrong? The answer: Cameron Barrinson\, her ex from long ago. And\, of course\, there is that pesky little secret she swore to never tell another soul about. But\, other than that—all will be easy\, right? Will her arrival be as straightforward as she hopes\, or will it shake loose old friendships and rekindle a love that should never have ended? ** Ella Stone is a pen name of J.S. Davidson and is used for all her drama / romance books. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n \n Ballarat-based author Jan Davidson\, 37\, is no stranger to challenges. Born with physical deformities\, Jan spent much of her childhood at Melbourne’s Royal Children’s Hospital. Yet\, from those early struggles emerged a remarkable talent and voice that now speaks to readers through stories that span magical realms and the rich tapestry of everyday Australian life.“It was really boring as a kid\,” Jan laughs\, reflecting on her years in the hospital. “Netflix didn’t exist back then — so I only had my imagination to entertain me.”What began as a way to escape the sterile hospital walls became the foundation for a writing career that bridges two very different\, yet equally compelling\, genres.Jan is the creative force behind the gripping Urban Fantasy series ‘The Aztec Saga’\, Hunted and Tethered\, published under the pen name J.S. Davidson\, and the deeply human Australian Drama series ‘With You’\, Breakfast With You and the soon-to-be-released Finding Me With You\, written under the name Ella Stone. When asked why she writes across such different genres\, her answer is simple: “I’d get bored sticking to just one.”She likens the contrast between the two styles to the shift from adventure to comfort. “Urban fantasy is a challenge\, an adventure\,” she explains. “Whereas Australian drama is like slipping cozy slippers on after a freezing day of being outside.” It’s that balance — between escapism and realism\, challenge and comfort — that gives Jan’s work a unique and captivating voice.At home in Ballarat\, Jan shares her life with her husband John and their two teenage children\, Samuel and Phoebe. Her writing life is closely woven into her family’s world\, one that’s grounded in care\, creativity\, and community. The Davidsons have long been active in local volunteer groups\, committed to giving back to the community that has supported them over the years.Jan’s story is a powerful reminder of how creativity can flourish in the most unexpected places — and how resilience\, imagination\, and heart can turn adversity into art. With more stories on the horizon and her latest drama ready to launch\, readers can expect to hear much more from this talented and deeply grounded writer.Whether she’s crafting tales of magic and danger or exploring the quiet heroism of everyday life\, Jan Davidson — as J.S. Davidson or Ella Stone — writes with authenticity and heart. And the world is better for it. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is part of Ballarat Winter Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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-bhf/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Ballarat Heritage Festival,Fundraiser,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:20240517T210000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240517T220000 DTSTAMP:20260408T151128 CREATED:20240226T025525Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250325T143020Z UID:51530-1715979600-1715983200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Minerva's Secrets | Night Tour 2 DESCRIPTION:Author Talk | Ella Stone – ‘Breakfast With You’ | Now CANCELLED \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n July 8\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.78 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n TBA \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ella Stone \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Breakfast With You \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Breakfast WIth You | Ella Stone\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The plan is simple. Nicole will return to her hometown of Riverbanks for the funeral and provide a eulogy for a father she no longer knows.Afterwards\, she will slip back to Sydney where she’ll wear the infamous Diamond Dress to the most prestigious fashion event of the year\, and she and Eddie—her life-long partner—will live happily ever after. Simple. What could possibly go wrong? The answer: Cameron Barrinson\, her ex from long ago. And\, of course\, there is that pesky little secret she swore to never tell another soul about. But\, other than that—all will be easy\, right? Will her arrival be as straightforward as she hopes\, or will it shake loose old friendships and rekindle a love that should never have ended? ** Ella Stone is a pen name of J.S. Davidson and is used for all her drama / romance books. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n \n Ballarat-based author Jan Davidson\, 37\, is no stranger to challenges. Born with physical deformities\, Jan spent much of her childhood at Melbourne’s Royal Children’s Hospital. Yet\, from those early struggles emerged a remarkable talent and voice that now speaks to readers through stories that span magical realms and the rich tapestry of everyday Australian life.“It was really boring as a kid\,” Jan laughs\, reflecting on her years in the hospital. “Netflix didn’t exist back then — so I only had my imagination to entertain me.”What began as a way to escape the sterile hospital walls became the foundation for a writing career that bridges two very different\, yet equally compelling\, genres.Jan is the creative force behind the gripping Urban Fantasy series ‘The Aztec Saga’\, Hunted and Tethered\, published under the pen name J.S. Davidson\, and the deeply human Australian Drama series ‘With You’\, Breakfast With You and the soon-to-be-released Finding Me With You\, written under the name Ella Stone. When asked why she writes across such different genres\, her answer is simple: “I’d get bored sticking to just one.”She likens the contrast between the two styles to the shift from adventure to comfort. “Urban fantasy is a challenge\, an adventure\,” she explains. “Whereas Australian drama is like slipping cozy slippers on after a freezing day of being outside.” It’s that balance — between escapism and realism\, challenge and comfort — that gives Jan’s work a unique and captivating voice.At home in Ballarat\, Jan shares her life with her husband John and their two teenage children\, Samuel and Phoebe. Her writing life is closely woven into her family’s world\, one that’s grounded in care\, creativity\, and community. The Davidsons have long been active in local volunteer groups\, committed to giving back to the community that has supported them over the years.Jan’s story is a powerful reminder of how creativity can flourish in the most unexpected places — and how resilience\, imagination\, and heart can turn adversity into art. With more stories on the horizon and her latest drama ready to launch\, readers can expect to hear much more from this talented and deeply grounded writer.Whether she’s crafting tales of magic and danger or exploring the quiet heroism of everyday life\, Jan Davidson — as J.S. Davidson or Ella Stone — writes with authenticity and heart. And the world is better for it. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is part of Ballarat Winter Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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-bhf-copy/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Ballarat Heritage Festival,Fundraiser,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:20240518T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240518T233000 DTSTAMP:20260408T151128 CREATED:20240221T234347Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250325T143022Z UID:51318-1716058800-1716075000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:The Vegas 70 returns to Ballarat | Ballarat Heritage Festival DESCRIPTION:Author Talk | Ella Stone – ‘Breakfast With You’ | Now CANCELLED \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n July 8\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.78 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n TBA \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ella Stone \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Breakfast With You \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Breakfast WIth You | Ella Stone\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The plan is simple. Nicole will return to her hometown of Riverbanks for the funeral and provide a eulogy for a father she no longer knows.Afterwards\, she will slip back to Sydney where she’ll wear the infamous Diamond Dress to the most prestigious fashion event of the year\, and she and Eddie—her life-long partner—will live happily ever after. Simple. What could possibly go wrong? The answer: Cameron Barrinson\, her ex from long ago. And\, of course\, there is that pesky little secret she swore to never tell another soul about. But\, other than that—all will be easy\, right? Will her arrival be as straightforward as she hopes\, or will it shake loose old friendships and rekindle a love that should never have ended? ** Ella Stone is a pen name of J.S. Davidson and is used for all her drama / romance books. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n \n Ballarat-based author Jan Davidson\, 37\, is no stranger to challenges. Born with physical deformities\, Jan spent much of her childhood at Melbourne’s Royal Children’s Hospital. Yet\, from those early struggles emerged a remarkable talent and voice that now speaks to readers through stories that span magical realms and the rich tapestry of everyday Australian life.“It was really boring as a kid\,” Jan laughs\, reflecting on her years in the hospital. “Netflix didn’t exist back then — so I only had my imagination to entertain me.”What began as a way to escape the sterile hospital walls became the foundation for a writing career that bridges two very different\, yet equally compelling\, genres.Jan is the creative force behind the gripping Urban Fantasy series ‘The Aztec Saga’\, Hunted and Tethered\, published under the pen name J.S. Davidson\, and the deeply human Australian Drama series ‘With You’\, Breakfast With You and the soon-to-be-released Finding Me With You\, written under the name Ella Stone. When asked why she writes across such different genres\, her answer is simple: “I’d get bored sticking to just one.”She likens the contrast between the two styles to the shift from adventure to comfort. “Urban fantasy is a challenge\, an adventure\,” she explains. “Whereas Australian drama is like slipping cozy slippers on after a freezing day of being outside.” It’s that balance — between escapism and realism\, challenge and comfort — that gives Jan’s work a unique and captivating voice.At home in Ballarat\, Jan shares her life with her husband John and their two teenage children\, Samuel and Phoebe. Her writing life is closely woven into her family’s world\, one that’s grounded in care\, creativity\, and community. The Davidsons have long been active in local volunteer groups\, committed to giving back to the community that has supported them over the years.Jan’s story is a powerful reminder of how creativity can flourish in the most unexpected places — and how resilience\, imagination\, and heart can turn adversity into art. With more stories on the horizon and her latest drama ready to launch\, readers can expect to hear much more from this talented and deeply grounded writer.Whether she’s crafting tales of magic and danger or exploring the quiet heroism of everyday life\, Jan Davidson — as J.S. Davidson or Ella Stone — writes with authenticity and heart. And the world is better for it. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is part of Ballarat Winter Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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/vegas-70/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Ballarat Heritage Festival,Festival,Film,Fundraiser ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Vegas-70-Logo-Lined.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240519T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240519T210000 DTSTAMP:20260408T151128 CREATED:20240221T222932Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250325T143025Z UID:51296-1716145200-1716152400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow | Ballarat DESCRIPTION:Author Talk | Ella Stone – ‘Breakfast With You’ | Now CANCELLED \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n July 8\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.78 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n TBA \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ella Stone \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Breakfast With You \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Breakfast WIth You | Ella Stone\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The plan is simple. Nicole will return to her hometown of Riverbanks for the funeral and provide a eulogy for a father she no longer knows.Afterwards\, she will slip back to Sydney where she’ll wear the infamous Diamond Dress to the most prestigious fashion event of the year\, and she and Eddie—her life-long partner—will live happily ever after. Simple. What could possibly go wrong? The answer: Cameron Barrinson\, her ex from long ago. And\, of course\, there is that pesky little secret she swore to never tell another soul about. But\, other than that—all will be easy\, right? Will her arrival be as straightforward as she hopes\, or will it shake loose old friendships and rekindle a love that should never have ended? ** Ella Stone is a pen name of J.S. Davidson and is used for all her drama / romance books. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n \n Ballarat-based author Jan Davidson\, 37\, is no stranger to challenges. Born with physical deformities\, Jan spent much of her childhood at Melbourne’s Royal Children’s Hospital. Yet\, from those early struggles emerged a remarkable talent and voice that now speaks to readers through stories that span magical realms and the rich tapestry of everyday Australian life.“It was really boring as a kid\,” Jan laughs\, reflecting on her years in the hospital. “Netflix didn’t exist back then — so I only had my imagination to entertain me.”What began as a way to escape the sterile hospital walls became the foundation for a writing career that bridges two very different\, yet equally compelling\, genres.Jan is the creative force behind the gripping Urban Fantasy series ‘The Aztec Saga’\, Hunted and Tethered\, published under the pen name J.S. Davidson\, and the deeply human Australian Drama series ‘With You’\, Breakfast With You and the soon-to-be-released Finding Me With You\, written under the name Ella Stone. When asked why she writes across such different genres\, her answer is simple: “I’d get bored sticking to just one.”She likens the contrast between the two styles to the shift from adventure to comfort. “Urban fantasy is a challenge\, an adventure\,” she explains. “Whereas Australian drama is like slipping cozy slippers on after a freezing day of being outside.” It’s that balance — between escapism and realism\, challenge and comfort — that gives Jan’s work a unique and captivating voice.At home in Ballarat\, Jan shares her life with her husband John and their two teenage children\, Samuel and Phoebe. Her writing life is closely woven into her family’s world\, one that’s grounded in care\, creativity\, and community. The Davidsons have long been active in local volunteer groups\, committed to giving back to the community that has supported them over the years.Jan’s story is a powerful reminder of how creativity can flourish in the most unexpected places — and how resilience\, imagination\, and heart can turn adversity into art. With more stories on the horizon and her latest drama ready to launch\, readers can expect to hear much more from this talented and deeply grounded writer.Whether she’s crafting tales of magic and danger or exploring the quiet heroism of everyday life\, Jan Davidson — as J.S. Davidson or Ella Stone — writes with authenticity and heart. And the world is better for it. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is part of Ballarat Winter Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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/comedy-festival-roadshow-ballarat/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Comedy,Externally Produced Event,Festival ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/comedy-festival-roadshow-24-e1708554779600.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240521T140000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240521T150000 DTSTAMP:20260408T151128 CREATED:20240229T030728Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250325T142955Z UID:51861-1716300000-1716303600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Day Tour of the BMI | Ballarat Heritage Festival DESCRIPTION:Author Talk | Ella Stone – ‘Breakfast With You’ | Now CANCELLED \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n July 8\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.78 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n TBA \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ella Stone \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Breakfast With You \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Breakfast WIth You | Ella Stone\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The plan is simple. Nicole will return to her hometown of Riverbanks for the funeral and provide a eulogy for a father she no longer knows.Afterwards\, she will slip back to Sydney where she’ll wear the infamous Diamond Dress to the most prestigious fashion event of the year\, and she and Eddie—her life-long partner—will live happily ever after. Simple. What could possibly go wrong? The answer: Cameron Barrinson\, her ex from long ago. And\, of course\, there is that pesky little secret she swore to never tell another soul about. But\, other than that—all will be easy\, right? Will her arrival be as straightforward as she hopes\, or will it shake loose old friendships and rekindle a love that should never have ended? ** Ella Stone is a pen name of J.S. Davidson and is used for all her drama / romance books. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n \n Ballarat-based author Jan Davidson\, 37\, is no stranger to challenges. Born with physical deformities\, Jan spent much of her childhood at Melbourne’s Royal Children’s Hospital. Yet\, from those early struggles emerged a remarkable talent and voice that now speaks to readers through stories that span magical realms and the rich tapestry of everyday Australian life.“It was really boring as a kid\,” Jan laughs\, reflecting on her years in the hospital. “Netflix didn’t exist back then — so I only had my imagination to entertain me.”What began as a way to escape the sterile hospital walls became the foundation for a writing career that bridges two very different\, yet equally compelling\, genres.Jan is the creative force behind the gripping Urban Fantasy series ‘The Aztec Saga’\, Hunted and Tethered\, published under the pen name J.S. Davidson\, and the deeply human Australian Drama series ‘With You’\, Breakfast With You and the soon-to-be-released Finding Me With You\, written under the name Ella Stone. When asked why she writes across such different genres\, her answer is simple: “I’d get bored sticking to just one.”She likens the contrast between the two styles to the shift from adventure to comfort. “Urban fantasy is a challenge\, an adventure\,” she explains. “Whereas Australian drama is like slipping cozy slippers on after a freezing day of being outside.” It’s that balance — between escapism and realism\, challenge and comfort — that gives Jan’s work a unique and captivating voice.At home in Ballarat\, Jan shares her life with her husband John and their two teenage children\, Samuel and Phoebe. Her writing life is closely woven into her family’s world\, one that’s grounded in care\, creativity\, and community. The Davidsons have long been active in local volunteer groups\, committed to giving back to the community that has supported them over the years.Jan’s story is a powerful reminder of how creativity can flourish in the most unexpected places — and how resilience\, imagination\, and heart can turn adversity into art. With more stories on the horizon and her latest drama ready to launch\, readers can expect to hear much more from this talented and deeply grounded writer.Whether she’s crafting tales of magic and danger or exploring the quiet heroism of everyday life\, Jan Davidson — as J.S. Davidson or Ella Stone — writes with authenticity and heart. And the world is better for it. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is part of Ballarat Winter Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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/day-tours-ballarat-heritage-festival/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Ballarat Heritage Festival,Festival,Tours ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/BMI_upshot_evening-1.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240521T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240521T203000 DTSTAMP:20260408T151128 CREATED:20240226T032014Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250325T143005Z UID:51556-1716319800-1716323400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Minerva's Secrets | Night Tour 3 | This session is now fully booked DESCRIPTION:Author Talk | Ella Stone – ‘Breakfast With You’ | Now CANCELLED \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n July 8\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.78 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n TBA \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ella Stone \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Breakfast With You \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Breakfast WIth You | Ella Stone\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The plan is simple. Nicole will return to her hometown of Riverbanks for the funeral and provide a eulogy for a father she no longer knows.Afterwards\, she will slip back to Sydney where she’ll wear the infamous Diamond Dress to the most prestigious fashion event of the year\, and she and Eddie—her life-long partner—will live happily ever after. Simple. What could possibly go wrong? The answer: Cameron Barrinson\, her ex from long ago. And\, of course\, there is that pesky little secret she swore to never tell another soul about. But\, other than that—all will be easy\, right? Will her arrival be as straightforward as she hopes\, or will it shake loose old friendships and rekindle a love that should never have ended? ** Ella Stone is a pen name of J.S. Davidson and is used for all her drama / romance books. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n \n Ballarat-based author Jan Davidson\, 37\, is no stranger to challenges. Born with physical deformities\, Jan spent much of her childhood at Melbourne’s Royal Children’s Hospital. Yet\, from those early struggles emerged a remarkable talent and voice that now speaks to readers through stories that span magical realms and the rich tapestry of everyday Australian life.“It was really boring as a kid\,” Jan laughs\, reflecting on her years in the hospital. “Netflix didn’t exist back then — so I only had my imagination to entertain me.”What began as a way to escape the sterile hospital walls became the foundation for a writing career that bridges two very different\, yet equally compelling\, genres.Jan is the creative force behind the gripping Urban Fantasy series ‘The Aztec Saga’\, Hunted and Tethered\, published under the pen name J.S. Davidson\, and the deeply human Australian Drama series ‘With You’\, Breakfast With You and the soon-to-be-released Finding Me With You\, written under the name Ella Stone. When asked why she writes across such different genres\, her answer is simple: “I’d get bored sticking to just one.”She likens the contrast between the two styles to the shift from adventure to comfort. “Urban fantasy is a challenge\, an adventure\,” she explains. “Whereas Australian drama is like slipping cozy slippers on after a freezing day of being outside.” It’s that balance — between escapism and realism\, challenge and comfort — that gives Jan’s work a unique and captivating voice.At home in Ballarat\, Jan shares her life with her husband John and their two teenage children\, Samuel and Phoebe. Her writing life is closely woven into her family’s world\, one that’s grounded in care\, creativity\, and community. The Davidsons have long been active in local volunteer groups\, committed to giving back to the community that has supported them over the years.Jan’s story is a powerful reminder of how creativity can flourish in the most unexpected places — and how resilience\, imagination\, and heart can turn adversity into art. With more stories on the horizon and her latest drama ready to launch\, readers can expect to hear much more from this talented and deeply grounded writer.Whether she’s crafting tales of magic and danger or exploring the quiet heroism of everyday life\, Jan Davidson — as J.S. Davidson or Ella Stone — writes with authenticity and heart. And the world is better for it. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is part of Ballarat Winter Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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-bhf-copy-2/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Ballarat Heritage Festival,Fundraiser,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:20240521T210000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240521T220000 DTSTAMP:20260408T151128 CREATED:20240226T031716Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250325T143017Z UID:51554-1716325200-1716328800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Minerva's Secrets | Night Tour 4 DESCRIPTION:Author Talk | Ella Stone – ‘Breakfast With You’ | Now CANCELLED \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n July 8\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.78 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n TBA \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ella Stone \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Breakfast With You \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Breakfast WIth You | Ella Stone\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The plan is simple. Nicole will return to her hometown of Riverbanks for the funeral and provide a eulogy for a father she no longer knows.Afterwards\, she will slip back to Sydney where she’ll wear the infamous Diamond Dress to the most prestigious fashion event of the year\, and she and Eddie—her life-long partner—will live happily ever after. Simple. What could possibly go wrong? The answer: Cameron Barrinson\, her ex from long ago. And\, of course\, there is that pesky little secret she swore to never tell another soul about. But\, other than that—all will be easy\, right? Will her arrival be as straightforward as she hopes\, or will it shake loose old friendships and rekindle a love that should never have ended? ** Ella Stone is a pen name of J.S. Davidson and is used for all her drama / romance books. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n \n Ballarat-based author Jan Davidson\, 37\, is no stranger to challenges. Born with physical deformities\, Jan spent much of her childhood at Melbourne’s Royal Children’s Hospital. Yet\, from those early struggles emerged a remarkable talent and voice that now speaks to readers through stories that span magical realms and the rich tapestry of everyday Australian life.“It was really boring as a kid\,” Jan laughs\, reflecting on her years in the hospital. “Netflix didn’t exist back then — so I only had my imagination to entertain me.”What began as a way to escape the sterile hospital walls became the foundation for a writing career that bridges two very different\, yet equally compelling\, genres.Jan is the creative force behind the gripping Urban Fantasy series ‘The Aztec Saga’\, Hunted and Tethered\, published under the pen name J.S. Davidson\, and the deeply human Australian Drama series ‘With You’\, Breakfast With You and the soon-to-be-released Finding Me With You\, written under the name Ella Stone. When asked why she writes across such different genres\, her answer is simple: “I’d get bored sticking to just one.”She likens the contrast between the two styles to the shift from adventure to comfort. “Urban fantasy is a challenge\, an adventure\,” she explains. “Whereas Australian drama is like slipping cozy slippers on after a freezing day of being outside.” It’s that balance — between escapism and realism\, challenge and comfort — that gives Jan’s work a unique and captivating voice.At home in Ballarat\, Jan shares her life with her husband John and their two teenage children\, Samuel and Phoebe. Her writing life is closely woven into her family’s world\, one that’s grounded in care\, creativity\, and community. The Davidsons have long been active in local volunteer groups\, committed to giving back to the community that has supported them over the years.Jan’s story is a powerful reminder of how creativity can flourish in the most unexpected places — and how resilience\, imagination\, and heart can turn adversity into art. With more stories on the horizon and her latest drama ready to launch\, readers can expect to hear much more from this talented and deeply grounded writer.Whether she’s crafting tales of magic and danger or exploring the quiet heroism of everyday life\, Jan Davidson — as J.S. Davidson or Ella Stone — writes with authenticity and heart. And the world is better for it. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is part of Ballarat Winter Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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-bhf-copy-copy/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Ballarat Heritage Festival,Fundraiser,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:20240522T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240522T190000 DTSTAMP:20260408T151128 CREATED:20240301T031503Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250325T142952Z UID:51926-1716400800-1716404400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Twilight Talks 2024\, Season 2\, Session 5 | Stories of the Silver Screen in the Golden City DESCRIPTION:Author Talk | Ella Stone – ‘Breakfast With You’ | Now CANCELLED \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n July 8\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.78 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n TBA \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ella Stone \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Breakfast With You \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Breakfast WIth You | Ella Stone\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The plan is simple. Nicole will return to her hometown of Riverbanks for the funeral and provide a eulogy for a father she no longer knows.Afterwards\, she will slip back to Sydney where she’ll wear the infamous Diamond Dress to the most prestigious fashion event of the year\, and she and Eddie—her life-long partner—will live happily ever after. Simple. What could possibly go wrong? The answer: Cameron Barrinson\, her ex from long ago. And\, of course\, there is that pesky little secret she swore to never tell another soul about. But\, other than that—all will be easy\, right? Will her arrival be as straightforward as she hopes\, or will it shake loose old friendships and rekindle a love that should never have ended? ** Ella Stone is a pen name of J.S. Davidson and is used for all her drama / romance books. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n \n Ballarat-based author Jan Davidson\, 37\, is no stranger to challenges. Born with physical deformities\, Jan spent much of her childhood at Melbourne’s Royal Children’s Hospital. Yet\, from those early struggles emerged a remarkable talent and voice that now speaks to readers through stories that span magical realms and the rich tapestry of everyday Australian life.“It was really boring as a kid\,” Jan laughs\, reflecting on her years in the hospital. “Netflix didn’t exist back then — so I only had my imagination to entertain me.”What began as a way to escape the sterile hospital walls became the foundation for a writing career that bridges two very different\, yet equally compelling\, genres.Jan is the creative force behind the gripping Urban Fantasy series ‘The Aztec Saga’\, Hunted and Tethered\, published under the pen name J.S. Davidson\, and the deeply human Australian Drama series ‘With You’\, Breakfast With You and the soon-to-be-released Finding Me With You\, written under the name Ella Stone. When asked why she writes across such different genres\, her answer is simple: “I’d get bored sticking to just one.”She likens the contrast between the two styles to the shift from adventure to comfort. “Urban fantasy is a challenge\, an adventure\,” she explains. “Whereas Australian drama is like slipping cozy slippers on after a freezing day of being outside.” It’s that balance — between escapism and realism\, challenge and comfort — that gives Jan’s work a unique and captivating voice.At home in Ballarat\, Jan shares her life with her husband John and their two teenage children\, Samuel and Phoebe. Her writing life is closely woven into her family’s world\, one that’s grounded in care\, creativity\, and community. The Davidsons have long been active in local volunteer groups\, committed to giving back to the community that has supported them over the years.Jan’s story is a powerful reminder of how creativity can flourish in the most unexpected places — and how resilience\, imagination\, and heart can turn adversity into art. With more stories on the horizon and her latest drama ready to launch\, readers can expect to hear much more from this talented and deeply grounded writer.Whether she’s crafting tales of magic and danger or exploring the quiet heroism of everyday life\, Jan Davidson — as J.S. Davidson or Ella Stone — writes with authenticity and heart. And the world is better for it. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is part of Ballarat Winter Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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-not-the-last-picture-show/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:About us,Ballarat Heritage Festival,Fundraiser,Twilight Talks,Twilight Talks Heritage Festivals ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/American-Graffiti-19.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240522T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240522T213000 DTSTAMP:20260408T151128 CREATED:20240506T012052Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250325T142856Z UID:54458-1716400800-1716413400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:The Drinks That Made Ballarat DESCRIPTION:Author Talk | Ella Stone – ‘Breakfast With You’ | Now CANCELLED \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n July 8\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.78 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n TBA \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ella Stone \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Breakfast With You \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Breakfast WIth You | Ella Stone\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The plan is simple. Nicole will return to her hometown of Riverbanks for the funeral and provide a eulogy for a father she no longer knows.Afterwards\, she will slip back to Sydney where she’ll wear the infamous Diamond Dress to the most prestigious fashion event of the year\, and she and Eddie—her life-long partner—will live happily ever after. Simple. What could possibly go wrong? The answer: Cameron Barrinson\, her ex from long ago. And\, of course\, there is that pesky little secret she swore to never tell another soul about. But\, other than that—all will be easy\, right? Will her arrival be as straightforward as she hopes\, or will it shake loose old friendships and rekindle a love that should never have ended? ** Ella Stone is a pen name of J.S. Davidson and is used for all her drama / romance books. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n \n Ballarat-based author Jan Davidson\, 37\, is no stranger to challenges. Born with physical deformities\, Jan spent much of her childhood at Melbourne’s Royal Children’s Hospital. Yet\, from those early struggles emerged a remarkable talent and voice that now speaks to readers through stories that span magical realms and the rich tapestry of everyday Australian life.“It was really boring as a kid\,” Jan laughs\, reflecting on her years in the hospital. “Netflix didn’t exist back then — so I only had my imagination to entertain me.”What began as a way to escape the sterile hospital walls became the foundation for a writing career that bridges two very different\, yet equally compelling\, genres.Jan is the creative force behind the gripping Urban Fantasy series ‘The Aztec Saga’\, Hunted and Tethered\, published under the pen name J.S. Davidson\, and the deeply human Australian Drama series ‘With You’\, Breakfast With You and the soon-to-be-released Finding Me With You\, written under the name Ella Stone. When asked why she writes across such different genres\, her answer is simple: “I’d get bored sticking to just one.”She likens the contrast between the two styles to the shift from adventure to comfort. “Urban fantasy is a challenge\, an adventure\,” she explains. “Whereas Australian drama is like slipping cozy slippers on after a freezing day of being outside.” It’s that balance — between escapism and realism\, challenge and comfort — that gives Jan’s work a unique and captivating voice.At home in Ballarat\, Jan shares her life with her husband John and their two teenage children\, Samuel and Phoebe. Her writing life is closely woven into her family’s world\, one that’s grounded in care\, creativity\, and community. The Davidsons have long been active in local volunteer groups\, committed to giving back to the community that has supported them over the years.Jan’s story is a powerful reminder of how creativity can flourish in the most unexpected places — and how resilience\, imagination\, and heart can turn adversity into art. With more stories on the horizon and her latest drama ready to launch\, readers can expect to hear much more from this talented and deeply grounded writer.Whether she’s crafting tales of magic and danger or exploring the quiet heroism of everyday life\, Jan Davidson — as J.S. Davidson or Ella Stone — writes with authenticity and heart. And the world is better for it. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is part of Ballarat Winter Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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/drinks-that-made-ballarat-itinerant/ LOCATION:Itinerant Spirits\, Lydiard Street North\, Soldiers Hill\, City of Ballarat\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Ballarat Heritage Festival,Festival ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/https___cdn.evbuc_.com_images_733269959_1986386447793_1_original.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240522T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240522T203000 DTSTAMP:20260408T151128 CREATED:20240520T001555Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250325T142557Z UID:55244-1716404400-1716409800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Kadampa Meditation Series | How to Love Yourself & Others DESCRIPTION:Author Talk | Ella Stone – ‘Breakfast With You’ | Now CANCELLED \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n July 8\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.78 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n TBA \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ella Stone \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Breakfast With You \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Breakfast WIth You | Ella Stone\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The plan is simple. Nicole will return to her hometown of Riverbanks for the funeral and provide a eulogy for a father she no longer knows.Afterwards\, she will slip back to Sydney where she’ll wear the infamous Diamond Dress to the most prestigious fashion event of the year\, and she and Eddie—her life-long partner—will live happily ever after. Simple. What could possibly go wrong? The answer: Cameron Barrinson\, her ex from long ago. And\, of course\, there is that pesky little secret she swore to never tell another soul about. But\, other than that—all will be easy\, right? Will her arrival be as straightforward as she hopes\, or will it shake loose old friendships and rekindle a love that should never have ended? ** Ella Stone is a pen name of J.S. Davidson and is used for all her drama / romance books. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n \n Ballarat-based author Jan Davidson\, 37\, is no stranger to challenges. Born with physical deformities\, Jan spent much of her childhood at Melbourne’s Royal Children’s Hospital. Yet\, from those early struggles emerged a remarkable talent and voice that now speaks to readers through stories that span magical realms and the rich tapestry of everyday Australian life.“It was really boring as a kid\,” Jan laughs\, reflecting on her years in the hospital. “Netflix didn’t exist back then — so I only had my imagination to entertain me.”What began as a way to escape the sterile hospital walls became the foundation for a writing career that bridges two very different\, yet equally compelling\, genres.Jan is the creative force behind the gripping Urban Fantasy series ‘The Aztec Saga’\, Hunted and Tethered\, published under the pen name J.S. Davidson\, and the deeply human Australian Drama series ‘With You’\, Breakfast With You and the soon-to-be-released Finding Me With You\, written under the name Ella Stone. When asked why she writes across such different genres\, her answer is simple: “I’d get bored sticking to just one.”She likens the contrast between the two styles to the shift from adventure to comfort. “Urban fantasy is a challenge\, an adventure\,” she explains. “Whereas Australian drama is like slipping cozy slippers on after a freezing day of being outside.” It’s that balance — between escapism and realism\, challenge and comfort — that gives Jan’s work a unique and captivating voice.At home in Ballarat\, Jan shares her life with her husband John and their two teenage children\, Samuel and Phoebe. Her writing life is closely woven into her family’s world\, one that’s grounded in care\, creativity\, and community. The Davidsons have long been active in local volunteer groups\, committed to giving back to the community that has supported them over the years.Jan’s story is a powerful reminder of how creativity can flourish in the most unexpected places — and how resilience\, imagination\, and heart can turn adversity into art. With more stories on the horizon and her latest drama ready to launch\, readers can expect to hear much more from this talented and deeply grounded writer.Whether she’s crafting tales of magic and danger or exploring the quiet heroism of everyday life\, Jan Davidson — as J.S. Davidson or Ella Stone — writes with authenticity and heart. And the world is better for it. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is part of Ballarat Winter Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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/kadampa-meditation-series-22-may-24/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:kadampa ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/kadampa-Ballarat-sep-dec-2023-1-logo.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240523T173000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240530T223000 DTSTAMP:20260408T151128 CREATED:20240520T020745Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240520T020942Z UID:55320-1716485400-1717108200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Ballarat Chess Club DESCRIPTION:Author Talk | Ella Stone – ‘Breakfast With You’ | Now CANCELLED \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n July 8\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.78 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n TBA \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ella Stone \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Breakfast With You \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Breakfast WIth You | Ella Stone\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The plan is simple. Nicole will return to her hometown of Riverbanks for the funeral and provide a eulogy for a father she no longer knows.Afterwards\, she will slip back to Sydney where she’ll wear the infamous Diamond Dress to the most prestigious fashion event of the year\, and she and Eddie—her life-long partner—will live happily ever after. Simple. What could possibly go wrong? The answer: Cameron Barrinson\, her ex from long ago. And\, of course\, there is that pesky little secret she swore to never tell another soul about. But\, other than that—all will be easy\, right? Will her arrival be as straightforward as she hopes\, or will it shake loose old friendships and rekindle a love that should never have ended? ** Ella Stone is a pen name of J.S. Davidson and is used for all her drama / romance books. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n \n Ballarat-based author Jan Davidson\, 37\, is no stranger to challenges. Born with physical deformities\, Jan spent much of her childhood at Melbourne’s Royal Children’s Hospital. Yet\, from those early struggles emerged a remarkable talent and voice that now speaks to readers through stories that span magical realms and the rich tapestry of everyday Australian life.“It was really boring as a kid\,” Jan laughs\, reflecting on her years in the hospital. “Netflix didn’t exist back then — so I only had my imagination to entertain me.”What began as a way to escape the sterile hospital walls became the foundation for a writing career that bridges two very different\, yet equally compelling\, genres.Jan is the creative force behind the gripping Urban Fantasy series ‘The Aztec Saga’\, Hunted and Tethered\, published under the pen name J.S. Davidson\, and the deeply human Australian Drama series ‘With You’\, Breakfast With You and the soon-to-be-released Finding Me With You\, written under the name Ella Stone. When asked why she writes across such different genres\, her answer is simple: “I’d get bored sticking to just one.”She likens the contrast between the two styles to the shift from adventure to comfort. “Urban fantasy is a challenge\, an adventure\,” she explains. “Whereas Australian drama is like slipping cozy slippers on after a freezing day of being outside.” It’s that balance — between escapism and realism\, challenge and comfort — that gives Jan’s work a unique and captivating voice.At home in Ballarat\, Jan shares her life with her husband John and their two teenage children\, Samuel and Phoebe. Her writing life is closely woven into her family’s world\, one that’s grounded in care\, creativity\, and community. The Davidsons have long been active in local volunteer groups\, committed to giving back to the community that has supported them over the years.Jan’s story is a powerful reminder of how creativity can flourish in the most unexpected places — and how resilience\, imagination\, and heart can turn adversity into art. With more stories on the horizon and her latest drama ready to launch\, readers can expect to hear much more from this talented and deeply grounded writer.Whether she’s crafting tales of magic and danger or exploring the quiet heroism of everyday life\, Jan Davidson — as J.S. Davidson or Ella Stone — writes with authenticity and heart. And the world is better for it. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is part of Ballarat Winter Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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-chess-club-may-24/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Ballarat Chess Club ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/ballarat-chess-club-square-with-boarder.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240526T150000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240526T163000 DTSTAMP:20260408T151128 CREATED:20240305T053624Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250325T142919Z UID:52084-1716735600-1716741000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:BMI165th Birthday Devonshire Tea Party DESCRIPTION:Author Talk | Ella Stone – ‘Breakfast With You’ | Now CANCELLED \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n July 8\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.78 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n TBA \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ella Stone \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Breakfast With You \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Breakfast WIth You | Ella Stone\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The plan is simple. Nicole will return to her hometown of Riverbanks for the funeral and provide a eulogy for a father she no longer knows.Afterwards\, she will slip back to Sydney where she’ll wear the infamous Diamond Dress to the most prestigious fashion event of the year\, and she and Eddie—her life-long partner—will live happily ever after. Simple. What could possibly go wrong? The answer: Cameron Barrinson\, her ex from long ago. And\, of course\, there is that pesky little secret she swore to never tell another soul about. But\, other than that—all will be easy\, right? Will her arrival be as straightforward as she hopes\, or will it shake loose old friendships and rekindle a love that should never have ended? ** Ella Stone is a pen name of J.S. Davidson and is used for all her drama / romance books. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n \n Ballarat-based author Jan Davidson\, 37\, is no stranger to challenges. Born with physical deformities\, Jan spent much of her childhood at Melbourne’s Royal Children’s Hospital. Yet\, from those early struggles emerged a remarkable talent and voice that now speaks to readers through stories that span magical realms and the rich tapestry of everyday Australian life.“It was really boring as a kid\,” Jan laughs\, reflecting on her years in the hospital. “Netflix didn’t exist back then — so I only had my imagination to entertain me.”What began as a way to escape the sterile hospital walls became the foundation for a writing career that bridges two very different\, yet equally compelling\, genres.Jan is the creative force behind the gripping Urban Fantasy series ‘The Aztec Saga’\, Hunted and Tethered\, published under the pen name J.S. Davidson\, and the deeply human Australian Drama series ‘With You’\, Breakfast With You and the soon-to-be-released Finding Me With You\, written under the name Ella Stone. When asked why she writes across such different genres\, her answer is simple: “I’d get bored sticking to just one.”She likens the contrast between the two styles to the shift from adventure to comfort. “Urban fantasy is a challenge\, an adventure\,” she explains. “Whereas Australian drama is like slipping cozy slippers on after a freezing day of being outside.” It’s that balance — between escapism and realism\, challenge and comfort — that gives Jan’s work a unique and captivating voice.At home in Ballarat\, Jan shares her life with her husband John and their two teenage children\, Samuel and Phoebe. Her writing life is closely woven into her family’s world\, one that’s grounded in care\, creativity\, and community. The Davidsons have long been active in local volunteer groups\, committed to giving back to the community that has supported them over the years.Jan’s story is a powerful reminder of how creativity can flourish in the most unexpected places — and how resilience\, imagination\, and heart can turn adversity into art. With more stories on the horizon and her latest drama ready to launch\, readers can expect to hear much more from this talented and deeply grounded writer.Whether she’s crafting tales of magic and danger or exploring the quiet heroism of everyday life\, Jan Davidson — as J.S. Davidson or Ella Stone — writes with authenticity and heart. And the world is better for it. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is part of Ballarat Winter Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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/bmi165-birthday-devonshire-tea/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:About us,Ballarat Heritage Festival,BMI Produced Event,Fundraiser ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/claire-adams-square.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240527T133000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250331T150000 DTSTAMP:20260408T151128 CREATED:20240109T023009Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250313T025648Z UID:49814-1716816600-1743433200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:The Reading Room DESCRIPTION:Author Talk | Ella Stone – ‘Breakfast With You’ | Now CANCELLED \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n July 8\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.78 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n TBA \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ella Stone \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Breakfast With You \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Breakfast WIth You | Ella Stone\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The plan is simple. Nicole will return to her hometown of Riverbanks for the funeral and provide a eulogy for a father she no longer knows.Afterwards\, she will slip back to Sydney where she’ll wear the infamous Diamond Dress to the most prestigious fashion event of the year\, and she and Eddie—her life-long partner—will live happily ever after. Simple. What could possibly go wrong? The answer: Cameron Barrinson\, her ex from long ago. And\, of course\, there is that pesky little secret she swore to never tell another soul about. But\, other than that—all will be easy\, right? Will her arrival be as straightforward as she hopes\, or will it shake loose old friendships and rekindle a love that should never have ended? ** Ella Stone is a pen name of J.S. Davidson and is used for all her drama / romance books. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n \n Ballarat-based author Jan Davidson\, 37\, is no stranger to challenges. Born with physical deformities\, Jan spent much of her childhood at Melbourne’s Royal Children’s Hospital. Yet\, from those early struggles emerged a remarkable talent and voice that now speaks to readers through stories that span magical realms and the rich tapestry of everyday Australian life.“It was really boring as a kid\,” Jan laughs\, reflecting on her years in the hospital. “Netflix didn’t exist back then — so I only had my imagination to entertain me.”What began as a way to escape the sterile hospital walls became the foundation for a writing career that bridges two very different\, yet equally compelling\, genres.Jan is the creative force behind the gripping Urban Fantasy series ‘The Aztec Saga’\, Hunted and Tethered\, published under the pen name J.S. Davidson\, and the deeply human Australian Drama series ‘With You’\, Breakfast With You and the soon-to-be-released Finding Me With You\, written under the name Ella Stone. When asked why she writes across such different genres\, her answer is simple: “I’d get bored sticking to just one.”She likens the contrast between the two styles to the shift from adventure to comfort. “Urban fantasy is a challenge\, an adventure\,” she explains. “Whereas Australian drama is like slipping cozy slippers on after a freezing day of being outside.” It’s that balance — between escapism and realism\, challenge and comfort — that gives Jan’s work a unique and captivating voice.At home in Ballarat\, Jan shares her life with her husband John and their two teenage children\, Samuel and Phoebe. Her writing life is closely woven into her family’s world\, one that’s grounded in care\, creativity\, and community. The Davidsons have long been active in local volunteer groups\, committed to giving back to the community that has supported them over the years.Jan’s story is a powerful reminder of how creativity can flourish in the most unexpected places — and how resilience\, imagination\, and heart can turn adversity into art. With more stories on the horizon and her latest drama ready to launch\, readers can expect to hear much more from this talented and deeply grounded writer.Whether she’s crafting tales of magic and danger or exploring the quiet heroism of everyday life\, Jan Davidson — as J.S. Davidson or Ella Stone — writes with authenticity and heart. And the world is better for it. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is part of Ballarat Winter Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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/the-reading-room-3/ LOCATION:Heritage Reading Room\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:The Reading Room ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Reading_room_adjusted-e1704770529709.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240528T140000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20241029T150000 DTSTAMP:20260408T151128 CREATED:20240229T025811Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240229T032043Z UID:51849-1716904800-1730214000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Day Tours of the Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute | Series DESCRIPTION:Author Talk | Ella Stone – ‘Breakfast With You’ | Now CANCELLED \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n July 8\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.78 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n TBA \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ella Stone \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Breakfast With You \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Breakfast WIth You | Ella Stone\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The plan is simple. Nicole will return to her hometown of Riverbanks for the funeral and provide a eulogy for a father she no longer knows.Afterwards\, she will slip back to Sydney where she’ll wear the infamous Diamond Dress to the most prestigious fashion event of the year\, and she and Eddie—her life-long partner—will live happily ever after. Simple. What could possibly go wrong? The answer: Cameron Barrinson\, her ex from long ago. And\, of course\, there is that pesky little secret she swore to never tell another soul about. But\, other than that—all will be easy\, right? Will her arrival be as straightforward as she hopes\, or will it shake loose old friendships and rekindle a love that should never have ended? ** Ella Stone is a pen name of J.S. Davidson and is used for all her drama / romance books. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n \n Ballarat-based author Jan Davidson\, 37\, is no stranger to challenges. Born with physical deformities\, Jan spent much of her childhood at Melbourne’s Royal Children’s Hospital. Yet\, from those early struggles emerged a remarkable talent and voice that now speaks to readers through stories that span magical realms and the rich tapestry of everyday Australian life.“It was really boring as a kid\,” Jan laughs\, reflecting on her years in the hospital. “Netflix didn’t exist back then — so I only had my imagination to entertain me.”What began as a way to escape the sterile hospital walls became the foundation for a writing career that bridges two very different\, yet equally compelling\, genres.Jan is the creative force behind the gripping Urban Fantasy series ‘The Aztec Saga’\, Hunted and Tethered\, published under the pen name J.S. Davidson\, and the deeply human Australian Drama series ‘With You’\, Breakfast With You and the soon-to-be-released Finding Me With You\, written under the name Ella Stone. When asked why she writes across such different genres\, her answer is simple: “I’d get bored sticking to just one.”She likens the contrast between the two styles to the shift from adventure to comfort. “Urban fantasy is a challenge\, an adventure\,” she explains. “Whereas Australian drama is like slipping cozy slippers on after a freezing day of being outside.” It’s that balance — between escapism and realism\, challenge and comfort — that gives Jan’s work a unique and captivating voice.At home in Ballarat\, Jan shares her life with her husband John and their two teenage children\, Samuel and Phoebe. Her writing life is closely woven into her family’s world\, one that’s grounded in care\, creativity\, and community. The Davidsons have long been active in local volunteer groups\, committed to giving back to the community that has supported them over the years.Jan’s story is a powerful reminder of how creativity can flourish in the most unexpected places — and how resilience\, imagination\, and heart can turn adversity into art. With more stories on the horizon and her latest drama ready to launch\, readers can expect to hear much more from this talented and deeply grounded writer.Whether she’s crafting tales of magic and danger or exploring the quiet heroism of everyday life\, Jan Davidson — as J.S. Davidson or Ella Stone — writes with authenticity and heart. And the world is better for it. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is part of Ballarat Winter Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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/day-tours-copy-2-2-copy/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Tours ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/BMI-woodcut_bags-low-res-1kb-e1703024949185.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240528T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240528T200000 DTSTAMP:20260408T151128 CREATED:20240411T094329Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250325T142859Z UID:53823-1716919200-1716926400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with Pam Swanborough DESCRIPTION:Author Talk | Ella Stone – ‘Breakfast With You’ | Now CANCELLED \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n July 8\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.78 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n TBA \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ella Stone \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Breakfast With You \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Breakfast WIth You | Ella Stone\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The plan is simple. Nicole will return to her hometown of Riverbanks for the funeral and provide a eulogy for a father she no longer knows.Afterwards\, she will slip back to Sydney where she’ll wear the infamous Diamond Dress to the most prestigious fashion event of the year\, and she and Eddie—her life-long partner—will live happily ever after. Simple. What could possibly go wrong? The answer: Cameron Barrinson\, her ex from long ago. And\, of course\, there is that pesky little secret she swore to never tell another soul about. But\, other than that—all will be easy\, right? Will her arrival be as straightforward as she hopes\, or will it shake loose old friendships and rekindle a love that should never have ended? ** Ella Stone is a pen name of J.S. Davidson and is used for all her drama / romance books. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n \n Ballarat-based author Jan Davidson\, 37\, is no stranger to challenges. Born with physical deformities\, Jan spent much of her childhood at Melbourne’s Royal Children’s Hospital. Yet\, from those early struggles emerged a remarkable talent and voice that now speaks to readers through stories that span magical realms and the rich tapestry of everyday Australian life.“It was really boring as a kid\,” Jan laughs\, reflecting on her years in the hospital. “Netflix didn’t exist back then — so I only had my imagination to entertain me.”What began as a way to escape the sterile hospital walls became the foundation for a writing career that bridges two very different\, yet equally compelling\, genres.Jan is the creative force behind the gripping Urban Fantasy series ‘The Aztec Saga’\, Hunted and Tethered\, published under the pen name J.S. Davidson\, and the deeply human Australian Drama series ‘With You’\, Breakfast With You and the soon-to-be-released Finding Me With You\, written under the name Ella Stone. When asked why she writes across such different genres\, her answer is simple: “I’d get bored sticking to just one.”She likens the contrast between the two styles to the shift from adventure to comfort. “Urban fantasy is a challenge\, an adventure\,” she explains. “Whereas Australian drama is like slipping cozy slippers on after a freezing day of being outside.” It’s that balance — between escapism and realism\, challenge and comfort — that gives Jan’s work a unique and captivating voice.At home in Ballarat\, Jan shares her life with her husband John and their two teenage children\, Samuel and Phoebe. Her writing life is closely woven into her family’s world\, one that’s grounded in care\, creativity\, and community. The Davidsons have long been active in local volunteer groups\, committed to giving back to the community that has supported them over the years.Jan’s story is a powerful reminder of how creativity can flourish in the most unexpected places — and how resilience\, imagination\, and heart can turn adversity into art. With more stories on the horizon and her latest drama ready to launch\, readers can expect to hear much more from this talented and deeply grounded writer.Whether she’s crafting tales of magic and danger or exploring the quiet heroism of everyday life\, Jan Davidson — as J.S. Davidson or Ella Stone — writes with authenticity and heart. And the world is better for it. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is part of Ballarat Winter Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/in-conversation-pam-swanborough/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/promo-squre-pam-swanborough.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240529T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240529T190000 DTSTAMP:20260408T151128 CREATED:20240407T224201Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250325T142902Z UID:53601-1717005600-1717009200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Twilight Talks 2024\, Season 2\, Session 6: History of Hoyts DESCRIPTION:Author Talk | Ella Stone – ‘Breakfast With You’ | Now CANCELLED \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n July 8\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.78 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n TBA \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ella Stone \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Breakfast With You \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Breakfast WIth You | Ella Stone\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The plan is simple. Nicole will return to her hometown of Riverbanks for the funeral and provide a eulogy for a father she no longer knows.Afterwards\, she will slip back to Sydney where she’ll wear the infamous Diamond Dress to the most prestigious fashion event of the year\, and she and Eddie—her life-long partner—will live happily ever after. Simple. What could possibly go wrong? The answer: Cameron Barrinson\, her ex from long ago. And\, of course\, there is that pesky little secret she swore to never tell another soul about. But\, other than that—all will be easy\, right? Will her arrival be as straightforward as she hopes\, or will it shake loose old friendships and rekindle a love that should never have ended? ** Ella Stone is a pen name of J.S. Davidson and is used for all her drama / romance books. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n \n Ballarat-based author Jan Davidson\, 37\, is no stranger to challenges. Born with physical deformities\, Jan spent much of her childhood at Melbourne’s Royal Children’s Hospital. Yet\, from those early struggles emerged a remarkable talent and voice that now speaks to readers through stories that span magical realms and the rich tapestry of everyday Australian life.“It was really boring as a kid\,” Jan laughs\, reflecting on her years in the hospital. “Netflix didn’t exist back then — so I only had my imagination to entertain me.”What began as a way to escape the sterile hospital walls became the foundation for a writing career that bridges two very different\, yet equally compelling\, genres.Jan is the creative force behind the gripping Urban Fantasy series ‘The Aztec Saga’\, Hunted and Tethered\, published under the pen name J.S. Davidson\, and the deeply human Australian Drama series ‘With You’\, Breakfast With You and the soon-to-be-released Finding Me With You\, written under the name Ella Stone. When asked why she writes across such different genres\, her answer is simple: “I’d get bored sticking to just one.”She likens the contrast between the two styles to the shift from adventure to comfort. “Urban fantasy is a challenge\, an adventure\,” she explains. “Whereas Australian drama is like slipping cozy slippers on after a freezing day of being outside.” It’s that balance — between escapism and realism\, challenge and comfort — that gives Jan’s work a unique and captivating voice.At home in Ballarat\, Jan shares her life with her husband John and their two teenage children\, Samuel and Phoebe. Her writing life is closely woven into her family’s world\, one that’s grounded in care\, creativity\, and community. The Davidsons have long been active in local volunteer groups\, committed to giving back to the community that has supported them over the years.Jan’s story is a powerful reminder of how creativity can flourish in the most unexpected places — and how resilience\, imagination\, and heart can turn adversity into art. With more stories on the horizon and her latest drama ready to launch\, readers can expect to hear much more from this talented and deeply grounded writer.Whether she’s crafting tales of magic and danger or exploring the quiet heroism of everyday life\, Jan Davidson — as J.S. Davidson or Ella Stone — writes with authenticity and heart. And the world is better for it. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is part of Ballarat Winter Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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-not-the-last-picture-show-copy/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:About us,Ballarat Heritage Festival,Fundraiser,Twilight Talks,Twilight Talks Heritage Festivals ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/hoyts-melboure.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240529T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240529T203000 DTSTAMP:20260408T151128 CREATED:20240520T002223Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240520T003222Z UID:55265-1717009200-1717014600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Kadampa Meditation Series | How to Love Yourself & Others DESCRIPTION:Author Talk | Ella Stone – ‘Breakfast With You’ | Now CANCELLED \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n July 8\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.78 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n TBA \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ella Stone \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Breakfast With You \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Breakfast WIth You | Ella Stone\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The plan is simple. Nicole will return to her hometown of Riverbanks for the funeral and provide a eulogy for a father she no longer knows.Afterwards\, she will slip back to Sydney where she’ll wear the infamous Diamond Dress to the most prestigious fashion event of the year\, and she and Eddie—her life-long partner—will live happily ever after. Simple. What could possibly go wrong? The answer: Cameron Barrinson\, her ex from long ago. And\, of course\, there is that pesky little secret she swore to never tell another soul about. But\, other than that—all will be easy\, right? Will her arrival be as straightforward as she hopes\, or will it shake loose old friendships and rekindle a love that should never have ended? ** Ella Stone is a pen name of J.S. Davidson and is used for all her drama / romance books. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n \n Ballarat-based author Jan Davidson\, 37\, is no stranger to challenges. Born with physical deformities\, Jan spent much of her childhood at Melbourne’s Royal Children’s Hospital. Yet\, from those early struggles emerged a remarkable talent and voice that now speaks to readers through stories that span magical realms and the rich tapestry of everyday Australian life.“It was really boring as a kid\,” Jan laughs\, reflecting on her years in the hospital. “Netflix didn’t exist back then — so I only had my imagination to entertain me.”What began as a way to escape the sterile hospital walls became the foundation for a writing career that bridges two very different\, yet equally compelling\, genres.Jan is the creative force behind the gripping Urban Fantasy series ‘The Aztec Saga’\, Hunted and Tethered\, published under the pen name J.S. Davidson\, and the deeply human Australian Drama series ‘With You’\, Breakfast With You and the soon-to-be-released Finding Me With You\, written under the name Ella Stone. When asked why she writes across such different genres\, her answer is simple: “I’d get bored sticking to just one.”She likens the contrast between the two styles to the shift from adventure to comfort. “Urban fantasy is a challenge\, an adventure\,” she explains. “Whereas Australian drama is like slipping cozy slippers on after a freezing day of being outside.” It’s that balance — between escapism and realism\, challenge and comfort — that gives Jan’s work a unique and captivating voice.At home in Ballarat\, Jan shares her life with her husband John and their two teenage children\, Samuel and Phoebe. Her writing life is closely woven into her family’s world\, one that’s grounded in care\, creativity\, and community. The Davidsons have long been active in local volunteer groups\, committed to giving back to the community that has supported them over the years.Jan’s story is a powerful reminder of how creativity can flourish in the most unexpected places — and how resilience\, imagination\, and heart can turn adversity into art. With more stories on the horizon and her latest drama ready to launch\, readers can expect to hear much more from this talented and deeply grounded writer.Whether she’s crafting tales of magic and danger or exploring the quiet heroism of everyday life\, Jan Davidson — as J.S. Davidson or Ella Stone — writes with authenticity and heart. And the world is better for it. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is part of Ballarat Winter Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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/kadampa-meditation-series-29-may-24/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:kadampa ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/kadampa-Ballarat-sep-dec-2023-1-logo.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240601T100000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240601T110000 DTSTAMP:20260408T151128 CREATED:20240529T033111Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250325T122032Z UID:55591-1717236000-1717239600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Ballart Pride Month Launch Morning Tea DESCRIPTION:Author Talk | Ella Stone – ‘Breakfast With You’ | Now CANCELLED \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n July 8\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.78 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n TBA \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ella Stone \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Breakfast With You \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Breakfast WIth You | Ella Stone\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The plan is simple. Nicole will return to her hometown of Riverbanks for the funeral and provide a eulogy for a father she no longer knows.Afterwards\, she will slip back to Sydney where she’ll wear the infamous Diamond Dress to the most prestigious fashion event of the year\, and she and Eddie—her life-long partner—will live happily ever after. Simple. What could possibly go wrong? The answer: Cameron Barrinson\, her ex from long ago. And\, of course\, there is that pesky little secret she swore to never tell another soul about. But\, other than that—all will be easy\, right? Will her arrival be as straightforward as she hopes\, or will it shake loose old friendships and rekindle a love that should never have ended? ** Ella Stone is a pen name of J.S. Davidson and is used for all her drama / romance books. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n \n Ballarat-based author Jan Davidson\, 37\, is no stranger to challenges. Born with physical deformities\, Jan spent much of her childhood at Melbourne’s Royal Children’s Hospital. Yet\, from those early struggles emerged a remarkable talent and voice that now speaks to readers through stories that span magical realms and the rich tapestry of everyday Australian life.“It was really boring as a kid\,” Jan laughs\, reflecting on her years in the hospital. “Netflix didn’t exist back then — so I only had my imagination to entertain me.”What began as a way to escape the sterile hospital walls became the foundation for a writing career that bridges two very different\, yet equally compelling\, genres.Jan is the creative force behind the gripping Urban Fantasy series ‘The Aztec Saga’\, Hunted and Tethered\, published under the pen name J.S. Davidson\, and the deeply human Australian Drama series ‘With You’\, Breakfast With You and the soon-to-be-released Finding Me With You\, written under the name Ella Stone. When asked why she writes across such different genres\, her answer is simple: “I’d get bored sticking to just one.”She likens the contrast between the two styles to the shift from adventure to comfort. “Urban fantasy is a challenge\, an adventure\,” she explains. “Whereas Australian drama is like slipping cozy slippers on after a freezing day of being outside.” It’s that balance — between escapism and realism\, challenge and comfort — that gives Jan’s work a unique and captivating voice.At home in Ballarat\, Jan shares her life with her husband John and their two teenage children\, Samuel and Phoebe. Her writing life is closely woven into her family’s world\, one that’s grounded in care\, creativity\, and community. The Davidsons have long been active in local volunteer groups\, committed to giving back to the community that has supported them over the years.Jan’s story is a powerful reminder of how creativity can flourish in the most unexpected places — and how resilience\, imagination\, and heart can turn adversity into art. With more stories on the horizon and her latest drama ready to launch\, readers can expect to hear much more from this talented and deeply grounded writer.Whether she’s crafting tales of magic and danger or exploring the quiet heroism of everyday life\, Jan Davidson — as J.S. Davidson or Ella Stone — writes with authenticity and heart. And the world is better for it. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is part of Ballarat Winter Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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-pride-month/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Festival ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/438301586_122105900390074158_15024554087572215_n.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240601T100000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240602T140000 DTSTAMP:20260408T151128 CREATED:20240517T033112Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250325T132922Z UID:55204-1717236000-1717336800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Winter Book Sale | Stockpile your reading pleasure DESCRIPTION:Author Talk | Ella Stone – ‘Breakfast With You’ | Now CANCELLED \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n July 8\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.78 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n TBA \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ella Stone \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Breakfast With You \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Breakfast WIth You | Ella Stone\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The plan is simple. Nicole will return to her hometown of Riverbanks for the funeral and provide a eulogy for a father she no longer knows.Afterwards\, she will slip back to Sydney where she’ll wear the infamous Diamond Dress to the most prestigious fashion event of the year\, and she and Eddie—her life-long partner—will live happily ever after. Simple. What could possibly go wrong? The answer: Cameron Barrinson\, her ex from long ago. And\, of course\, there is that pesky little secret she swore to never tell another soul about. But\, other than that—all will be easy\, right? Will her arrival be as straightforward as she hopes\, or will it shake loose old friendships and rekindle a love that should never have ended? ** Ella Stone is a pen name of J.S. Davidson and is used for all her drama / romance books. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n \n Ballarat-based author Jan Davidson\, 37\, is no stranger to challenges. Born with physical deformities\, Jan spent much of her childhood at Melbourne’s Royal Children’s Hospital. Yet\, from those early struggles emerged a remarkable talent and voice that now speaks to readers through stories that span magical realms and the rich tapestry of everyday Australian life.“It was really boring as a kid\,” Jan laughs\, reflecting on her years in the hospital. “Netflix didn’t exist back then — so I only had my imagination to entertain me.”What began as a way to escape the sterile hospital walls became the foundation for a writing career that bridges two very different\, yet equally compelling\, genres.Jan is the creative force behind the gripping Urban Fantasy series ‘The Aztec Saga’\, Hunted and Tethered\, published under the pen name J.S. Davidson\, and the deeply human Australian Drama series ‘With You’\, Breakfast With You and the soon-to-be-released Finding Me With You\, written under the name Ella Stone. When asked why she writes across such different genres\, her answer is simple: “I’d get bored sticking to just one.”She likens the contrast between the two styles to the shift from adventure to comfort. “Urban fantasy is a challenge\, an adventure\,” she explains. “Whereas Australian drama is like slipping cozy slippers on after a freezing day of being outside.” It’s that balance — between escapism and realism\, challenge and comfort — that gives Jan’s work a unique and captivating voice.At home in Ballarat\, Jan shares her life with her husband John and their two teenage children\, Samuel and Phoebe. Her writing life is closely woven into her family’s world\, one that’s grounded in care\, creativity\, and community. The Davidsons have long been active in local volunteer groups\, committed to giving back to the community that has supported them over the years.Jan’s story is a powerful reminder of how creativity can flourish in the most unexpected places — and how resilience\, imagination\, and heart can turn adversity into art. With more stories on the horizon and her latest drama ready to launch\, readers can expect to hear much more from this talented and deeply grounded writer.Whether she’s crafting tales of magic and danger or exploring the quiet heroism of everyday life\, Jan Davidson — as J.S. Davidson or Ella Stone — writes with authenticity and heart. And the world is better for it. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is part of Ballarat Winter Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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/winter-book-sale/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Ballarat Winter Festival,BMI Produced Event,Culture,Fundraiser ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/book-sale-square-promo.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240602T100000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240602T150000 DTSTAMP:20260408T151128 CREATED:20240529T053135Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250325T122255Z UID:55625-1717322400-1717340400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Ballart Pride Market DESCRIPTION:Author Talk | Ella Stone – ‘Breakfast With You’ | Now CANCELLED \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n July 8\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.78 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n TBA \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ella Stone \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Breakfast With You \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Breakfast WIth You | Ella Stone\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The plan is simple. Nicole will return to her hometown of Riverbanks for the funeral and provide a eulogy for a father she no longer knows.Afterwards\, she will slip back to Sydney where she’ll wear the infamous Diamond Dress to the most prestigious fashion event of the year\, and she and Eddie—her life-long partner—will live happily ever after. Simple. What could possibly go wrong? The answer: Cameron Barrinson\, her ex from long ago. And\, of course\, there is that pesky little secret she swore to never tell another soul about. But\, other than that—all will be easy\, right? Will her arrival be as straightforward as she hopes\, or will it shake loose old friendships and rekindle a love that should never have ended? ** Ella Stone is a pen name of J.S. Davidson and is used for all her drama / romance books. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n \n Ballarat-based author Jan Davidson\, 37\, is no stranger to challenges. Born with physical deformities\, Jan spent much of her childhood at Melbourne’s Royal Children’s Hospital. Yet\, from those early struggles emerged a remarkable talent and voice that now speaks to readers through stories that span magical realms and the rich tapestry of everyday Australian life.“It was really boring as a kid\,” Jan laughs\, reflecting on her years in the hospital. “Netflix didn’t exist back then — so I only had my imagination to entertain me.”What began as a way to escape the sterile hospital walls became the foundation for a writing career that bridges two very different\, yet equally compelling\, genres.Jan is the creative force behind the gripping Urban Fantasy series ‘The Aztec Saga’\, Hunted and Tethered\, published under the pen name J.S. Davidson\, and the deeply human Australian Drama series ‘With You’\, Breakfast With You and the soon-to-be-released Finding Me With You\, written under the name Ella Stone. When asked why she writes across such different genres\, her answer is simple: “I’d get bored sticking to just one.”She likens the contrast between the two styles to the shift from adventure to comfort. “Urban fantasy is a challenge\, an adventure\,” she explains. “Whereas Australian drama is like slipping cozy slippers on after a freezing day of being outside.” It’s that balance — between escapism and realism\, challenge and comfort — that gives Jan’s work a unique and captivating voice.At home in Ballarat\, Jan shares her life with her husband John and their two teenage children\, Samuel and Phoebe. Her writing life is closely woven into her family’s world\, one that’s grounded in care\, creativity\, and community. The Davidsons have long been active in local volunteer groups\, committed to giving back to the community that has supported them over the years.Jan’s story is a powerful reminder of how creativity can flourish in the most unexpected places — and how resilience\, imagination\, and heart can turn adversity into art. With more stories on the horizon and her latest drama ready to launch\, readers can expect to hear much more from this talented and deeply grounded writer.Whether she’s crafting tales of magic and danger or exploring the quiet heroism of everyday life\, Jan Davidson — as J.S. Davidson or Ella Stone — writes with authenticity and heart. And the world is better for it. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is part of Ballarat Winter Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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-pride-market/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Festival ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/qtq_70.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240604T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240604T200000 DTSTAMP:20260408T151128 CREATED:20240223T021113Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250325T121220Z UID:51430-1717524000-1717531200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with Paula Gleeson DESCRIPTION:Author Talk | Ella Stone – ‘Breakfast With You’ | Now CANCELLED \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n July 8\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.78 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n TBA \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ella Stone \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Breakfast With You \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Breakfast WIth You | Ella Stone\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The plan is simple. Nicole will return to her hometown of Riverbanks for the funeral and provide a eulogy for a father she no longer knows.Afterwards\, she will slip back to Sydney where she’ll wear the infamous Diamond Dress to the most prestigious fashion event of the year\, and she and Eddie—her life-long partner—will live happily ever after. Simple. What could possibly go wrong? The answer: Cameron Barrinson\, her ex from long ago. And\, of course\, there is that pesky little secret she swore to never tell another soul about. But\, other than that—all will be easy\, right? Will her arrival be as straightforward as she hopes\, or will it shake loose old friendships and rekindle a love that should never have ended? ** Ella Stone is a pen name of J.S. Davidson and is used for all her drama / romance books. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n \n Ballarat-based author Jan Davidson\, 37\, is no stranger to challenges. Born with physical deformities\, Jan spent much of her childhood at Melbourne’s Royal Children’s Hospital. Yet\, from those early struggles emerged a remarkable talent and voice that now speaks to readers through stories that span magical realms and the rich tapestry of everyday Australian life.“It was really boring as a kid\,” Jan laughs\, reflecting on her years in the hospital. “Netflix didn’t exist back then — so I only had my imagination to entertain me.”What began as a way to escape the sterile hospital walls became the foundation for a writing career that bridges two very different\, yet equally compelling\, genres.Jan is the creative force behind the gripping Urban Fantasy series ‘The Aztec Saga’\, Hunted and Tethered\, published under the pen name J.S. Davidson\, and the deeply human Australian Drama series ‘With You’\, Breakfast With You and the soon-to-be-released Finding Me With You\, written under the name Ella Stone. When asked why she writes across such different genres\, her answer is simple: “I’d get bored sticking to just one.”She likens the contrast between the two styles to the shift from adventure to comfort. “Urban fantasy is a challenge\, an adventure\,” she explains. “Whereas Australian drama is like slipping cozy slippers on after a freezing day of being outside.” It’s that balance — between escapism and realism\, challenge and comfort — that gives Jan’s work a unique and captivating voice.At home in Ballarat\, Jan shares her life with her husband John and their two teenage children\, Samuel and Phoebe. Her writing life is closely woven into her family’s world\, one that’s grounded in care\, creativity\, and community. The Davidsons have long been active in local volunteer groups\, committed to giving back to the community that has supported them over the years.Jan’s story is a powerful reminder of how creativity can flourish in the most unexpected places — and how resilience\, imagination\, and heart can turn adversity into art. With more stories on the horizon and her latest drama ready to launch\, readers can expect to hear much more from this talented and deeply grounded writer.Whether she’s crafting tales of magic and danger or exploring the quiet heroism of everyday life\, Jan Davidson — as J.S. Davidson or Ella Stone — writes with authenticity and heart. And the world is better for it. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is part of Ballarat Winter Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/in-conversation-paula-gleeson/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/square-promo-paula-gleeson.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240605T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240605T203000 DTSTAMP:20260408T151128 CREATED:20240520T002250Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240520T002702Z UID:55266-1717614000-1717619400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Kadampa Meditation Series | How to Love Yourself & Others DESCRIPTION:Author Talk | Ella Stone – ‘Breakfast With You’ | Now CANCELLED \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n July 8\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.78 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n TBA \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ella Stone \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Breakfast With You \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Breakfast WIth You | Ella Stone\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The plan is simple. Nicole will return to her hometown of Riverbanks for the funeral and provide a eulogy for a father she no longer knows.Afterwards\, she will slip back to Sydney where she’ll wear the infamous Diamond Dress to the most prestigious fashion event of the year\, and she and Eddie—her life-long partner—will live happily ever after. Simple. What could possibly go wrong? The answer: Cameron Barrinson\, her ex from long ago. And\, of course\, there is that pesky little secret she swore to never tell another soul about. But\, other than that—all will be easy\, right? Will her arrival be as straightforward as she hopes\, or will it shake loose old friendships and rekindle a love that should never have ended? ** Ella Stone is a pen name of J.S. Davidson and is used for all her drama / romance books. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n \n Ballarat-based author Jan Davidson\, 37\, is no stranger to challenges. Born with physical deformities\, Jan spent much of her childhood at Melbourne’s Royal Children’s Hospital. Yet\, from those early struggles emerged a remarkable talent and voice that now speaks to readers through stories that span magical realms and the rich tapestry of everyday Australian life.“It was really boring as a kid\,” Jan laughs\, reflecting on her years in the hospital. “Netflix didn’t exist back then — so I only had my imagination to entertain me.”What began as a way to escape the sterile hospital walls became the foundation for a writing career that bridges two very different\, yet equally compelling\, genres.Jan is the creative force behind the gripping Urban Fantasy series ‘The Aztec Saga’\, Hunted and Tethered\, published under the pen name J.S. Davidson\, and the deeply human Australian Drama series ‘With You’\, Breakfast With You and the soon-to-be-released Finding Me With You\, written under the name Ella Stone. When asked why she writes across such different genres\, her answer is simple: “I’d get bored sticking to just one.”She likens the contrast between the two styles to the shift from adventure to comfort. “Urban fantasy is a challenge\, an adventure\,” she explains. “Whereas Australian drama is like slipping cozy slippers on after a freezing day of being outside.” It’s that balance — between escapism and realism\, challenge and comfort — that gives Jan’s work a unique and captivating voice.At home in Ballarat\, Jan shares her life with her husband John and their two teenage children\, Samuel and Phoebe. Her writing life is closely woven into her family’s world\, one that’s grounded in care\, creativity\, and community. The Davidsons have long been active in local volunteer groups\, committed to giving back to the community that has supported them over the years.Jan’s story is a powerful reminder of how creativity can flourish in the most unexpected places — and how resilience\, imagination\, and heart can turn adversity into art. With more stories on the horizon and her latest drama ready to launch\, readers can expect to hear much more from this talented and deeply grounded writer.Whether she’s crafting tales of magic and danger or exploring the quiet heroism of everyday life\, Jan Davidson — as J.S. Davidson or Ella Stone — writes with authenticity and heart. And the world is better for it. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is part of Ballarat Winter Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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/kadampa-meditation-series-5-june-24/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:kadampa ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/kadampa-Ballarat-sep-dec-2023-1-logo.png END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR