BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute - ECPv6.15.20//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-WR-CALNAME:Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:Australia/Melbourne BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+1100 TZOFFSETTO:+1000 TZNAME:AEST DTSTART:20240406T160000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+1000 TZOFFSETTO:+1100 TZNAME:AEDT DTSTART:20241005T160000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+1100 TZOFFSETTO:+1000 TZNAME:AEST DTSTART:20250405T160000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+1000 TZOFFSETTO:+1100 TZNAME:AEDT DTSTART:20251004T160000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+1100 TZOFFSETTO:+1000 TZNAME:AEST DTSTART:20260404T160000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+1000 TZOFFSETTO:+1100 TZNAME:AEDT DTSTART:20261003T160000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+1100 TZOFFSETTO:+1000 TZNAME:AEST DTSTART:20270403T160000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+1000 TZOFFSETTO:+1100 TZNAME:AEDT DTSTART:20271002T160000 END:DAYLIGHT END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260225T183000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260225T200000 DTSTAMP:20260418T010922 CREATED:20251008T011020Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251008T030310Z UID:67900-1772044200-1772049600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with Paula McLean DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat – Nostalgic memories of Stawell & Ballarat – 1950s and 1960s \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n5:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n6:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$9 – $13 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Geoff Carr\, author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Spike is a young boy in 1950s Australia\, surrounded by sprawling landscapesand a menagerie of animals. Together with his friends Leany and Riddy\, they do what all young boys in the bush do: make their own fun. From chooks in outhouses\, exploding trees and rats at the flicks to standing up to backyard bullies\, farewelling dear friends and making unexpected new ones\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories traverses the passing of time\, documenting a life well lived and fondly remembered. Laced with dry humour and typical understated Australian cadence\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories invites readers to look back at life in a time gone by and delight in the charming stories of author Geoff Carr. \n \n \n \n ReviewsDickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories is unlike anything I’ve read before. It feels like a eulogy – not a sombre one\, but more in the way you might catch up with friends from years gone\, with a beer in hand\, and swap stories and laughter and tears. It’s filled with absurdity\, heartbreak\, humour and a quiet reverence that never quite leaves\, even long after you’ve finished reading it. These aren’t just stories; they’re lived-in moments\, softened by age and nostalgia and celebratory for the joy of having truly known someone. Among that\, Carr gives us – the reader – something precious: the gift of sharing. These are no longer just his memories – they’re ours. And in that act of sharing\, the people and characters and souls and memories tied up within these stories live on. They continue to exist beside him and now\, beside us. Stephanie\, ARC Reviewer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the speaker \n \n \n Geoff Carr\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Geoff Carr is a Ballarat-based author of short stories inspired by his childhood. He grew up in the Wimmera town of Stawell and cherished his caring and loving upbringing enveloped in the blue silhouettes of the famous Grampians and lesser- known Black Ranges. This was the setting before commencing his teaching career and settling in Ballarat for over fifty years. Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin; Other Stories is a collection of short stories that presents a sentimental portrait of boyhood and bush life told through Carr’s quintessentially Australian humour and country charm. ‘This is a book of memories. I want people to be transported back in time where thosenostalgic memories can be reignited\,’ Carr said. Early readers have praised this collection as both a tribute and a celebration\, “like catching up with old friends\, swapping stories\, laughter and tears.” The standout piece\, Through Coloured Windows explores grief with striking tenderness\, while the book’s namesake\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin is celebration as “one-of-a-kind\, laugh-your-ass-off funny!” \n \n \n \n \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 will be supported by Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $13 per person plus booking fee\, general admission | $9 for BMI members plus booking fee. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/paula-mclean/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/sp-promo-paula-mclean.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260218T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260218T200000 DTSTAMP:20260418T010922 CREATED:20260119T041316Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260119T234924Z UID:70123-1771441200-1771444800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Kadampa Meditation Series | A Fresh Start: Discover the Power of Meditation DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat – Nostalgic memories of Stawell & Ballarat – 1950s and 1960s \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n5:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n6:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$9 – $13 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Geoff Carr\, author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Spike is a young boy in 1950s Australia\, surrounded by sprawling landscapesand a menagerie of animals. Together with his friends Leany and Riddy\, they do what all young boys in the bush do: make their own fun. From chooks in outhouses\, exploding trees and rats at the flicks to standing up to backyard bullies\, farewelling dear friends and making unexpected new ones\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories traverses the passing of time\, documenting a life well lived and fondly remembered. Laced with dry humour and typical understated Australian cadence\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories invites readers to look back at life in a time gone by and delight in the charming stories of author Geoff Carr. \n \n \n \n ReviewsDickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories is unlike anything I’ve read before. It feels like a eulogy – not a sombre one\, but more in the way you might catch up with friends from years gone\, with a beer in hand\, and swap stories and laughter and tears. It’s filled with absurdity\, heartbreak\, humour and a quiet reverence that never quite leaves\, even long after you’ve finished reading it. These aren’t just stories; they’re lived-in moments\, softened by age and nostalgia and celebratory for the joy of having truly known someone. Among that\, Carr gives us – the reader – something precious: the gift of sharing. These are no longer just his memories – they’re ours. And in that act of sharing\, the people and characters and souls and memories tied up within these stories live on. They continue to exist beside him and now\, beside us. Stephanie\, ARC Reviewer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the speaker \n \n \n Geoff Carr\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Geoff Carr is a Ballarat-based author of short stories inspired by his childhood. He grew up in the Wimmera town of Stawell and cherished his caring and loving upbringing enveloped in the blue silhouettes of the famous Grampians and lesser- known Black Ranges. This was the setting before commencing his teaching career and settling in Ballarat for over fifty years. Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin; Other Stories is a collection of short stories that presents a sentimental portrait of boyhood and bush life told through Carr’s quintessentially Australian humour and country charm. ‘This is a book of memories. I want people to be transported back in time where thosenostalgic memories can be reignited\,’ Carr said. Early readers have praised this collection as both a tribute and a celebration\, “like catching up with old friends\, swapping stories\, laughter and tears.” The standout piece\, Through Coloured Windows explores grief with striking tenderness\, while the book’s namesake\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin is celebration as “one-of-a-kind\, laugh-your-ass-off funny!” \n \n \n \n \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 will be supported by Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $13 per person plus booking fee\, general admission | $9 for BMI members plus booking fee. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/kadampa-meditation-series-18-feb-26/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:kadampa ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Square-A_Fresh_Start.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Kadampa Meditation":MAILTO:info@kadampa.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260215T170000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260215T183000 DTSTAMP:20260418T010922 CREATED:20260112T034344Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260123T000304Z UID:69818-1771174800-1771180200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Joseph Tawadros | Solo Oud DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat – Nostalgic memories of Stawell & Ballarat – 1950s and 1960s \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n5:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n6:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$9 – $13 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Geoff Carr\, author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Spike is a young boy in 1950s Australia\, surrounded by sprawling landscapesand a menagerie of animals. Together with his friends Leany and Riddy\, they do what all young boys in the bush do: make their own fun. From chooks in outhouses\, exploding trees and rats at the flicks to standing up to backyard bullies\, farewelling dear friends and making unexpected new ones\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories traverses the passing of time\, documenting a life well lived and fondly remembered. Laced with dry humour and typical understated Australian cadence\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories invites readers to look back at life in a time gone by and delight in the charming stories of author Geoff Carr. \n \n \n \n ReviewsDickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories is unlike anything I’ve read before. It feels like a eulogy – not a sombre one\, but more in the way you might catch up with friends from years gone\, with a beer in hand\, and swap stories and laughter and tears. It’s filled with absurdity\, heartbreak\, humour and a quiet reverence that never quite leaves\, even long after you’ve finished reading it. These aren’t just stories; they’re lived-in moments\, softened by age and nostalgia and celebratory for the joy of having truly known someone. Among that\, Carr gives us – the reader – something precious: the gift of sharing. These are no longer just his memories – they’re ours. And in that act of sharing\, the people and characters and souls and memories tied up within these stories live on. They continue to exist beside him and now\, beside us. Stephanie\, ARC Reviewer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the speaker \n \n \n Geoff Carr\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Geoff Carr is a Ballarat-based author of short stories inspired by his childhood. He grew up in the Wimmera town of Stawell and cherished his caring and loving upbringing enveloped in the blue silhouettes of the famous Grampians and lesser- known Black Ranges. This was the setting before commencing his teaching career and settling in Ballarat for over fifty years. Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin; Other Stories is a collection of short stories that presents a sentimental portrait of boyhood and bush life told through Carr’s quintessentially Australian humour and country charm. ‘This is a book of memories. I want people to be transported back in time where thosenostalgic memories can be reignited\,’ Carr said. Early readers have praised this collection as both a tribute and a celebration\, “like catching up with old friends\, swapping stories\, laughter and tears.” The standout piece\, Through Coloured Windows explores grief with striking tenderness\, while the book’s namesake\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin is celebration as “one-of-a-kind\, laugh-your-ass-off funny!” \n \n \n \n \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 will be supported by Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $13 per person plus booking fee\, general admission | $9 for BMI members plus booking fee. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/joseph-tawadros-solo-oud/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Live Music ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/sq-promo-joseph-tawadros.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260214T120000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260214T140000 DTSTAMP:20260418T010922 CREATED:20260112T012814Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260112T060448Z UID:69779-1771070400-1771077600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In conversation with Tori Baxter | Book Launch DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat – Nostalgic memories of Stawell & Ballarat – 1950s and 1960s \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n5:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n6:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$9 – $13 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Geoff Carr\, author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Spike is a young boy in 1950s Australia\, surrounded by sprawling landscapesand a menagerie of animals. Together with his friends Leany and Riddy\, they do what all young boys in the bush do: make their own fun. From chooks in outhouses\, exploding trees and rats at the flicks to standing up to backyard bullies\, farewelling dear friends and making unexpected new ones\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories traverses the passing of time\, documenting a life well lived and fondly remembered. Laced with dry humour and typical understated Australian cadence\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories invites readers to look back at life in a time gone by and delight in the charming stories of author Geoff Carr. \n \n \n \n ReviewsDickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories is unlike anything I’ve read before. It feels like a eulogy – not a sombre one\, but more in the way you might catch up with friends from years gone\, with a beer in hand\, and swap stories and laughter and tears. It’s filled with absurdity\, heartbreak\, humour and a quiet reverence that never quite leaves\, even long after you’ve finished reading it. These aren’t just stories; they’re lived-in moments\, softened by age and nostalgia and celebratory for the joy of having truly known someone. Among that\, Carr gives us – the reader – something precious: the gift of sharing. These are no longer just his memories – they’re ours. And in that act of sharing\, the people and characters and souls and memories tied up within these stories live on. They continue to exist beside him and now\, beside us. Stephanie\, ARC Reviewer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the speaker \n \n \n Geoff Carr\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Geoff Carr is a Ballarat-based author of short stories inspired by his childhood. He grew up in the Wimmera town of Stawell and cherished his caring and loving upbringing enveloped in the blue silhouettes of the famous Grampians and lesser- known Black Ranges. This was the setting before commencing his teaching career and settling in Ballarat for over fifty years. Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin; Other Stories is a collection of short stories that presents a sentimental portrait of boyhood and bush life told through Carr’s quintessentially Australian humour and country charm. ‘This is a book of memories. I want people to be transported back in time where thosenostalgic memories can be reignited\,’ Carr said. Early readers have praised this collection as both a tribute and a celebration\, “like catching up with old friends\, swapping stories\, laughter and tears.” The standout piece\, Through Coloured Windows explores grief with striking tenderness\, while the book’s namesake\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin is celebration as “one-of-a-kind\, laugh-your-ass-off funny!” \n \n \n \n \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 will be supported by Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $13 per person plus booking fee\, general admission | $9 for BMI members plus booking fee. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/in-conversation-with-tori-baxter/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Author Talk ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Untitled-1.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260212T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260212T210000 DTSTAMP:20260418T010922 CREATED:20260128T030546Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260129T033730Z UID:70313-1770924600-1770930000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Ballarat Film Society | Flow DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat – Nostalgic memories of Stawell & Ballarat – 1950s and 1960s \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n5:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n6:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$9 – $13 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Geoff Carr\, author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Spike is a young boy in 1950s Australia\, surrounded by sprawling landscapesand a menagerie of animals. Together with his friends Leany and Riddy\, they do what all young boys in the bush do: make their own fun. From chooks in outhouses\, exploding trees and rats at the flicks to standing up to backyard bullies\, farewelling dear friends and making unexpected new ones\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories traverses the passing of time\, documenting a life well lived and fondly remembered. Laced with dry humour and typical understated Australian cadence\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories invites readers to look back at life in a time gone by and delight in the charming stories of author Geoff Carr. \n \n \n \n ReviewsDickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories is unlike anything I’ve read before. It feels like a eulogy – not a sombre one\, but more in the way you might catch up with friends from years gone\, with a beer in hand\, and swap stories and laughter and tears. It’s filled with absurdity\, heartbreak\, humour and a quiet reverence that never quite leaves\, even long after you’ve finished reading it. These aren’t just stories; they’re lived-in moments\, softened by age and nostalgia and celebratory for the joy of having truly known someone. Among that\, Carr gives us – the reader – something precious: the gift of sharing. These are no longer just his memories – they’re ours. And in that act of sharing\, the people and characters and souls and memories tied up within these stories live on. They continue to exist beside him and now\, beside us. Stephanie\, ARC Reviewer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the speaker \n \n \n Geoff Carr\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Geoff Carr is a Ballarat-based author of short stories inspired by his childhood. He grew up in the Wimmera town of Stawell and cherished his caring and loving upbringing enveloped in the blue silhouettes of the famous Grampians and lesser- known Black Ranges. This was the setting before commencing his teaching career and settling in Ballarat for over fifty years. Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin; Other Stories is a collection of short stories that presents a sentimental portrait of boyhood and bush life told through Carr’s quintessentially Australian humour and country charm. ‘This is a book of memories. I want people to be transported back in time where thosenostalgic memories can be reignited\,’ Carr said. Early readers have praised this collection as both a tribute and a celebration\, “like catching up with old friends\, swapping stories\, laughter and tears.” The standout piece\, Through Coloured Windows explores grief with striking tenderness\, while the book’s namesake\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin is celebration as “one-of-a-kind\, laugh-your-ass-off funny!” \n \n \n \n \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 will be supported by Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $13 per person plus booking fee\, general admission | $9 for BMI members plus booking fee. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/ballarat-film-society-flow/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Ballarat Film Society,Film ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/flow-sq-promo.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260211T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260211T200000 DTSTAMP:20260418T010922 CREATED:20260119T041205Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260119T235116Z UID:70121-1770836400-1770840000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Kadampa Meditation Series | A Fresh Start: Discover the Power of Meditation DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat – Nostalgic memories of Stawell & Ballarat – 1950s and 1960s \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n5:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n6:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$9 – $13 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Geoff Carr\, author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Spike is a young boy in 1950s Australia\, surrounded by sprawling landscapesand a menagerie of animals. Together with his friends Leany and Riddy\, they do what all young boys in the bush do: make their own fun. From chooks in outhouses\, exploding trees and rats at the flicks to standing up to backyard bullies\, farewelling dear friends and making unexpected new ones\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories traverses the passing of time\, documenting a life well lived and fondly remembered. Laced with dry humour and typical understated Australian cadence\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories invites readers to look back at life in a time gone by and delight in the charming stories of author Geoff Carr. \n \n \n \n ReviewsDickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories is unlike anything I’ve read before. It feels like a eulogy – not a sombre one\, but more in the way you might catch up with friends from years gone\, with a beer in hand\, and swap stories and laughter and tears. It’s filled with absurdity\, heartbreak\, humour and a quiet reverence that never quite leaves\, even long after you’ve finished reading it. These aren’t just stories; they’re lived-in moments\, softened by age and nostalgia and celebratory for the joy of having truly known someone. Among that\, Carr gives us – the reader – something precious: the gift of sharing. These are no longer just his memories – they’re ours. And in that act of sharing\, the people and characters and souls and memories tied up within these stories live on. They continue to exist beside him and now\, beside us. Stephanie\, ARC Reviewer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the speaker \n \n \n Geoff Carr\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Geoff Carr is a Ballarat-based author of short stories inspired by his childhood. He grew up in the Wimmera town of Stawell and cherished his caring and loving upbringing enveloped in the blue silhouettes of the famous Grampians and lesser- known Black Ranges. This was the setting before commencing his teaching career and settling in Ballarat for over fifty years. Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin; Other Stories is a collection of short stories that presents a sentimental portrait of boyhood and bush life told through Carr’s quintessentially Australian humour and country charm. ‘This is a book of memories. I want people to be transported back in time where thosenostalgic memories can be reignited\,’ Carr said. Early readers have praised this collection as both a tribute and a celebration\, “like catching up with old friends\, swapping stories\, laughter and tears.” The standout piece\, Through Coloured Windows explores grief with striking tenderness\, while the book’s namesake\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin is celebration as “one-of-a-kind\, laugh-your-ass-off funny!” \n \n \n \n \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 will be supported by Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $13 per person plus booking fee\, general admission | $9 for BMI members plus booking fee. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/kadampa-meditation-series-11-feb-26/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:kadampa ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Square-A_Fresh_Start.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Kadampa Meditation":MAILTO:info@kadampa.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260204T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260204T200000 DTSTAMP:20260418T010922 CREATED:20260119T040646Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260119T235306Z UID:70116-1770231600-1770235200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Kadampa Meditation Series | A Fresh Start: Discover the Power of Meditation DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat – Nostalgic memories of Stawell & Ballarat – 1950s and 1960s \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n5:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n6:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$9 – $13 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Geoff Carr\, author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Spike is a young boy in 1950s Australia\, surrounded by sprawling landscapesand a menagerie of animals. Together with his friends Leany and Riddy\, they do what all young boys in the bush do: make their own fun. From chooks in outhouses\, exploding trees and rats at the flicks to standing up to backyard bullies\, farewelling dear friends and making unexpected new ones\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories traverses the passing of time\, documenting a life well lived and fondly remembered. Laced with dry humour and typical understated Australian cadence\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories invites readers to look back at life in a time gone by and delight in the charming stories of author Geoff Carr. \n \n \n \n ReviewsDickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories is unlike anything I’ve read before. It feels like a eulogy – not a sombre one\, but more in the way you might catch up with friends from years gone\, with a beer in hand\, and swap stories and laughter and tears. It’s filled with absurdity\, heartbreak\, humour and a quiet reverence that never quite leaves\, even long after you’ve finished reading it. These aren’t just stories; they’re lived-in moments\, softened by age and nostalgia and celebratory for the joy of having truly known someone. Among that\, Carr gives us – the reader – something precious: the gift of sharing. These are no longer just his memories – they’re ours. And in that act of sharing\, the people and characters and souls and memories tied up within these stories live on. They continue to exist beside him and now\, beside us. Stephanie\, ARC Reviewer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the speaker \n \n \n Geoff Carr\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Geoff Carr is a Ballarat-based author of short stories inspired by his childhood. He grew up in the Wimmera town of Stawell and cherished his caring and loving upbringing enveloped in the blue silhouettes of the famous Grampians and lesser- known Black Ranges. This was the setting before commencing his teaching career and settling in Ballarat for over fifty years. Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin; Other Stories is a collection of short stories that presents a sentimental portrait of boyhood and bush life told through Carr’s quintessentially Australian humour and country charm. ‘This is a book of memories. I want people to be transported back in time where thosenostalgic memories can be reignited\,’ Carr said. Early readers have praised this collection as both a tribute and a celebration\, “like catching up with old friends\, swapping stories\, laughter and tears.” The standout piece\, Through Coloured Windows explores grief with striking tenderness\, while the book’s namesake\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin is celebration as “one-of-a-kind\, laugh-your-ass-off funny!” \n \n \n \n \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 will be supported by Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $13 per person plus booking fee\, general admission | $9 for BMI members plus booking fee. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/kadampa-meditation-series-4-feb-26/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:kadampa ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Square-A_Fresh_Start.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Kadampa Meditation":MAILTO:info@kadampa.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260128T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260128T201500 DTSTAMP:20260418T010922 CREATED:20251124T043242Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251201T032638Z UID:68875-1769626800-1769631300@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Living From a Place of Inner Peace - Ballarat Public Talk DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat – Nostalgic memories of Stawell & Ballarat – 1950s and 1960s \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n5:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n6:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$9 – $13 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Geoff Carr\, author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Spike is a young boy in 1950s Australia\, surrounded by sprawling landscapesand a menagerie of animals. Together with his friends Leany and Riddy\, they do what all young boys in the bush do: make their own fun. From chooks in outhouses\, exploding trees and rats at the flicks to standing up to backyard bullies\, farewelling dear friends and making unexpected new ones\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories traverses the passing of time\, documenting a life well lived and fondly remembered. Laced with dry humour and typical understated Australian cadence\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories invites readers to look back at life in a time gone by and delight in the charming stories of author Geoff Carr. \n \n \n \n ReviewsDickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories is unlike anything I’ve read before. It feels like a eulogy – not a sombre one\, but more in the way you might catch up with friends from years gone\, with a beer in hand\, and swap stories and laughter and tears. It’s filled with absurdity\, heartbreak\, humour and a quiet reverence that never quite leaves\, even long after you’ve finished reading it. These aren’t just stories; they’re lived-in moments\, softened by age and nostalgia and celebratory for the joy of having truly known someone. Among that\, Carr gives us – the reader – something precious: the gift of sharing. These are no longer just his memories – they’re ours. And in that act of sharing\, the people and characters and souls and memories tied up within these stories live on. They continue to exist beside him and now\, beside us. Stephanie\, ARC Reviewer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the speaker \n \n \n Geoff Carr\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Geoff Carr is a Ballarat-based author of short stories inspired by his childhood. He grew up in the Wimmera town of Stawell and cherished his caring and loving upbringing enveloped in the blue silhouettes of the famous Grampians and lesser- known Black Ranges. This was the setting before commencing his teaching career and settling in Ballarat for over fifty years. Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin; Other Stories is a collection of short stories that presents a sentimental portrait of boyhood and bush life told through Carr’s quintessentially Australian humour and country charm. ‘This is a book of memories. I want people to be transported back in time where thosenostalgic memories can be reignited\,’ Carr said. Early readers have praised this collection as both a tribute and a celebration\, “like catching up with old friends\, swapping stories\, laughter and tears.” The standout piece\, Through Coloured Windows explores grief with striking tenderness\, while the book’s namesake\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin is celebration as “one-of-a-kind\, laugh-your-ass-off funny!” \n \n \n \n \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 will be supported by Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $13 per person plus booking fee\, general admission | $9 for BMI members plus booking fee. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/living-from-a-place-of-inner-peace/ LOCATION:VIC CATEGORIES:kadampa,Talk ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/square-promo2-1.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="KMC Australia & Melbourne":MAILTO:info@kadampa.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260128T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260128T193000 DTSTAMP:20260418T010922 CREATED:20251120T065224Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251215T040410Z UID:68764-1769623200-1769628600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with Geoff Parkes and Susi Fox DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat – Nostalgic memories of Stawell & Ballarat – 1950s and 1960s \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n5:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n6:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$9 – $13 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Geoff Carr\, author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Spike is a young boy in 1950s Australia\, surrounded by sprawling landscapesand a menagerie of animals. Together with his friends Leany and Riddy\, they do what all young boys in the bush do: make their own fun. From chooks in outhouses\, exploding trees and rats at the flicks to standing up to backyard bullies\, farewelling dear friends and making unexpected new ones\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories traverses the passing of time\, documenting a life well lived and fondly remembered. Laced with dry humour and typical understated Australian cadence\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories invites readers to look back at life in a time gone by and delight in the charming stories of author Geoff Carr. \n \n \n \n ReviewsDickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories is unlike anything I’ve read before. It feels like a eulogy – not a sombre one\, but more in the way you might catch up with friends from years gone\, with a beer in hand\, and swap stories and laughter and tears. It’s filled with absurdity\, heartbreak\, humour and a quiet reverence that never quite leaves\, even long after you’ve finished reading it. These aren’t just stories; they’re lived-in moments\, softened by age and nostalgia and celebratory for the joy of having truly known someone. Among that\, Carr gives us – the reader – something precious: the gift of sharing. These are no longer just his memories – they’re ours. And in that act of sharing\, the people and characters and souls and memories tied up within these stories live on. They continue to exist beside him and now\, beside us. Stephanie\, ARC Reviewer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the speaker \n \n \n Geoff Carr\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Geoff Carr is a Ballarat-based author of short stories inspired by his childhood. He grew up in the Wimmera town of Stawell and cherished his caring and loving upbringing enveloped in the blue silhouettes of the famous Grampians and lesser- known Black Ranges. This was the setting before commencing his teaching career and settling in Ballarat for over fifty years. Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin; Other Stories is a collection of short stories that presents a sentimental portrait of boyhood and bush life told through Carr’s quintessentially Australian humour and country charm. ‘This is a book of memories. I want people to be transported back in time where thosenostalgic memories can be reignited\,’ Carr said. Early readers have praised this collection as both a tribute and a celebration\, “like catching up with old friends\, swapping stories\, laughter and tears.” The standout piece\, Through Coloured Windows explores grief with striking tenderness\, while the book’s namesake\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin is celebration as “one-of-a-kind\, laugh-your-ass-off funny!” \n \n \n \n \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 will be supported by Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $13 per person plus booking fee\, general admission | $9 for BMI members plus booking fee. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/in-conversation-with-geoff-parks-susi-fox/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/sq-promo-geoff.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260123T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260123T213000 DTSTAMP:20260418T010922 CREATED:20251203T003308Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251203T010553Z UID:69281-1769196600-1769203800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Billy Hinde's Big Band presents: A Night of Big Band DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat – Nostalgic memories of Stawell & Ballarat – 1950s and 1960s \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n5:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n6:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$9 – $13 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Geoff Carr\, author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Spike is a young boy in 1950s Australia\, surrounded by sprawling landscapesand a menagerie of animals. Together with his friends Leany and Riddy\, they do what all young boys in the bush do: make their own fun. From chooks in outhouses\, exploding trees and rats at the flicks to standing up to backyard bullies\, farewelling dear friends and making unexpected new ones\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories traverses the passing of time\, documenting a life well lived and fondly remembered. Laced with dry humour and typical understated Australian cadence\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories invites readers to look back at life in a time gone by and delight in the charming stories of author Geoff Carr. \n \n \n \n ReviewsDickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories is unlike anything I’ve read before. It feels like a eulogy – not a sombre one\, but more in the way you might catch up with friends from years gone\, with a beer in hand\, and swap stories and laughter and tears. It’s filled with absurdity\, heartbreak\, humour and a quiet reverence that never quite leaves\, even long after you’ve finished reading it. These aren’t just stories; they’re lived-in moments\, softened by age and nostalgia and celebratory for the joy of having truly known someone. Among that\, Carr gives us – the reader – something precious: the gift of sharing. These are no longer just his memories – they’re ours. And in that act of sharing\, the people and characters and souls and memories tied up within these stories live on. They continue to exist beside him and now\, beside us. Stephanie\, ARC Reviewer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the speaker \n \n \n Geoff Carr\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Geoff Carr is a Ballarat-based author of short stories inspired by his childhood. He grew up in the Wimmera town of Stawell and cherished his caring and loving upbringing enveloped in the blue silhouettes of the famous Grampians and lesser- known Black Ranges. This was the setting before commencing his teaching career and settling in Ballarat for over fifty years. Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin; Other Stories is a collection of short stories that presents a sentimental portrait of boyhood and bush life told through Carr’s quintessentially Australian humour and country charm. ‘This is a book of memories. I want people to be transported back in time where thosenostalgic memories can be reignited\,’ Carr said. Early readers have praised this collection as both a tribute and a celebration\, “like catching up with old friends\, swapping stories\, laughter and tears.” The standout piece\, Through Coloured Windows explores grief with striking tenderness\, while the book’s namesake\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin is celebration as “one-of-a-kind\, laugh-your-ass-off funny!” \n \n \n \n \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 will be supported by Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $13 per person plus booking fee\, general admission | $9 for BMI members plus booking fee. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/a-night-of-big-band/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Live Music ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/sq-promo-billy-hinde.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260112T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260112T190000 DTSTAMP:20260418T010922 CREATED:20241217T012501Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251209T010209Z UID:60743-1768240800-1768244400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Ballarat Festival of Organ and Fine Music | Darkness & Delight - Jerry Wong (solo piano) DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat – Nostalgic memories of Stawell & Ballarat – 1950s and 1960s \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n5:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n6:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$9 – $13 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Geoff Carr\, author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Spike is a young boy in 1950s Australia\, surrounded by sprawling landscapesand a menagerie of animals. Together with his friends Leany and Riddy\, they do what all young boys in the bush do: make their own fun. From chooks in outhouses\, exploding trees and rats at the flicks to standing up to backyard bullies\, farewelling dear friends and making unexpected new ones\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories traverses the passing of time\, documenting a life well lived and fondly remembered. Laced with dry humour and typical understated Australian cadence\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories invites readers to look back at life in a time gone by and delight in the charming stories of author Geoff Carr. \n \n \n \n ReviewsDickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories is unlike anything I’ve read before. It feels like a eulogy – not a sombre one\, but more in the way you might catch up with friends from years gone\, with a beer in hand\, and swap stories and laughter and tears. It’s filled with absurdity\, heartbreak\, humour and a quiet reverence that never quite leaves\, even long after you’ve finished reading it. These aren’t just stories; they’re lived-in moments\, softened by age and nostalgia and celebratory for the joy of having truly known someone. Among that\, Carr gives us – the reader – something precious: the gift of sharing. These are no longer just his memories – they’re ours. And in that act of sharing\, the people and characters and souls and memories tied up within these stories live on. They continue to exist beside him and now\, beside us. Stephanie\, ARC Reviewer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the speaker \n \n \n Geoff Carr\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Geoff Carr is a Ballarat-based author of short stories inspired by his childhood. He grew up in the Wimmera town of Stawell and cherished his caring and loving upbringing enveloped in the blue silhouettes of the famous Grampians and lesser- known Black Ranges. This was the setting before commencing his teaching career and settling in Ballarat for over fifty years. Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin; Other Stories is a collection of short stories that presents a sentimental portrait of boyhood and bush life told through Carr’s quintessentially Australian humour and country charm. ‘This is a book of memories. I want people to be transported back in time where thosenostalgic memories can be reignited\,’ Carr said. Early readers have praised this collection as both a tribute and a celebration\, “like catching up with old friends\, swapping stories\, laughter and tears.” The standout piece\, Through Coloured Windows explores grief with striking tenderness\, while the book’s namesake\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin is celebration as “one-of-a-kind\, laugh-your-ass-off funny!” \n \n \n \n \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 will be supported by Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $13 per person plus booking fee\, general admission | $9 for BMI members plus booking fee. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/jerry-wong/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Classical Music,Live Music,organs ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/jerry-wong.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260110T130000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260110T160000 DTSTAMP:20260418T010922 CREATED:20251209T021738Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251209T041541Z UID:69434-1768050000-1768060800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Artistanbul: Create your own Turkish Mosaic Lamp DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat – Nostalgic memories of Stawell & Ballarat – 1950s and 1960s \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n5:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n6:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$9 – $13 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Geoff Carr\, author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Spike is a young boy in 1950s Australia\, surrounded by sprawling landscapesand a menagerie of animals. Together with his friends Leany and Riddy\, they do what all young boys in the bush do: make their own fun. From chooks in outhouses\, exploding trees and rats at the flicks to standing up to backyard bullies\, farewelling dear friends and making unexpected new ones\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories traverses the passing of time\, documenting a life well lived and fondly remembered. Laced with dry humour and typical understated Australian cadence\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories invites readers to look back at life in a time gone by and delight in the charming stories of author Geoff Carr. \n \n \n \n ReviewsDickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories is unlike anything I’ve read before. It feels like a eulogy – not a sombre one\, but more in the way you might catch up with friends from years gone\, with a beer in hand\, and swap stories and laughter and tears. It’s filled with absurdity\, heartbreak\, humour and a quiet reverence that never quite leaves\, even long after you’ve finished reading it. These aren’t just stories; they’re lived-in moments\, softened by age and nostalgia and celebratory for the joy of having truly known someone. Among that\, Carr gives us – the reader – something precious: the gift of sharing. These are no longer just his memories – they’re ours. And in that act of sharing\, the people and characters and souls and memories tied up within these stories live on. They continue to exist beside him and now\, beside us. Stephanie\, ARC Reviewer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the speaker \n \n \n Geoff Carr\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Geoff Carr is a Ballarat-based author of short stories inspired by his childhood. He grew up in the Wimmera town of Stawell and cherished his caring and loving upbringing enveloped in the blue silhouettes of the famous Grampians and lesser- known Black Ranges. This was the setting before commencing his teaching career and settling in Ballarat for over fifty years. Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin; Other Stories is a collection of short stories that presents a sentimental portrait of boyhood and bush life told through Carr’s quintessentially Australian humour and country charm. ‘This is a book of memories. I want people to be transported back in time where thosenostalgic memories can be reignited\,’ Carr said. Early readers have praised this collection as both a tribute and a celebration\, “like catching up with old friends\, swapping stories\, laughter and tears.” The standout piece\, Through Coloured Windows explores grief with striking tenderness\, while the book’s namesake\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin is celebration as “one-of-a-kind\, laugh-your-ass-off funny!” \n \n \n \n \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 will be supported by Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $13 per person plus booking fee\, general admission | $9 for BMI members plus booking fee. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/art-istanbul-workshop/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Art programs,Christmas,Fundraiser,Important Dates,Market ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/sq-promo-art-instanbul.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251213T200000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251213T213000 DTSTAMP:20260418T010922 CREATED:20251021T225043Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251210T032321Z UID:68162-1765656000-1765661400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Christmas Comedy Gala at BMI DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat – Nostalgic memories of Stawell & Ballarat – 1950s and 1960s \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n5:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n6:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$9 – $13 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Geoff Carr\, author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Spike is a young boy in 1950s Australia\, surrounded by sprawling landscapesand a menagerie of animals. Together with his friends Leany and Riddy\, they do what all young boys in the bush do: make their own fun. From chooks in outhouses\, exploding trees and rats at the flicks to standing up to backyard bullies\, farewelling dear friends and making unexpected new ones\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories traverses the passing of time\, documenting a life well lived and fondly remembered. Laced with dry humour and typical understated Australian cadence\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories invites readers to look back at life in a time gone by and delight in the charming stories of author Geoff Carr. \n \n \n \n ReviewsDickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories is unlike anything I’ve read before. It feels like a eulogy – not a sombre one\, but more in the way you might catch up with friends from years gone\, with a beer in hand\, and swap stories and laughter and tears. It’s filled with absurdity\, heartbreak\, humour and a quiet reverence that never quite leaves\, even long after you’ve finished reading it. These aren’t just stories; they’re lived-in moments\, softened by age and nostalgia and celebratory for the joy of having truly known someone. Among that\, Carr gives us – the reader – something precious: the gift of sharing. These are no longer just his memories – they’re ours. And in that act of sharing\, the people and characters and souls and memories tied up within these stories live on. They continue to exist beside him and now\, beside us. Stephanie\, ARC Reviewer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the speaker \n \n \n Geoff Carr\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Geoff Carr is a Ballarat-based author of short stories inspired by his childhood. He grew up in the Wimmera town of Stawell and cherished his caring and loving upbringing enveloped in the blue silhouettes of the famous Grampians and lesser- known Black Ranges. This was the setting before commencing his teaching career and settling in Ballarat for over fifty years. Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin; Other Stories is a collection of short stories that presents a sentimental portrait of boyhood and bush life told through Carr’s quintessentially Australian humour and country charm. ‘This is a book of memories. I want people to be transported back in time where thosenostalgic memories can be reignited\,’ Carr said. Early readers have praised this collection as both a tribute and a celebration\, “like catching up with old friends\, swapping stories\, laughter and tears.” The standout piece\, Through Coloured Windows explores grief with striking tenderness\, while the book’s namesake\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin is celebration as “one-of-a-kind\, laugh-your-ass-off funny!” \n \n \n \n \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 will be supported by Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $13 per person plus booking fee\, general admission | $9 for BMI members plus booking fee. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/christmas-comedy-gala/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Comedy ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/sq-promo-comedy-gala.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251212T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251212T200000 DTSTAMP:20260418T010922 CREATED:20250923T045702Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250923T051149Z UID:67545-1765566000-1765569600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Minerva's Secrets | Night Tour DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat – Nostalgic memories of Stawell & Ballarat – 1950s and 1960s \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n5:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n6:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$9 – $13 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Geoff Carr\, author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Spike is a young boy in 1950s Australia\, surrounded by sprawling landscapesand a menagerie of animals. Together with his friends Leany and Riddy\, they do what all young boys in the bush do: make their own fun. From chooks in outhouses\, exploding trees and rats at the flicks to standing up to backyard bullies\, farewelling dear friends and making unexpected new ones\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories traverses the passing of time\, documenting a life well lived and fondly remembered. Laced with dry humour and typical understated Australian cadence\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories invites readers to look back at life in a time gone by and delight in the charming stories of author Geoff Carr. \n \n \n \n ReviewsDickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories is unlike anything I’ve read before. It feels like a eulogy – not a sombre one\, but more in the way you might catch up with friends from years gone\, with a beer in hand\, and swap stories and laughter and tears. It’s filled with absurdity\, heartbreak\, humour and a quiet reverence that never quite leaves\, even long after you’ve finished reading it. These aren’t just stories; they’re lived-in moments\, softened by age and nostalgia and celebratory for the joy of having truly known someone. Among that\, Carr gives us – the reader – something precious: the gift of sharing. These are no longer just his memories – they’re ours. And in that act of sharing\, the people and characters and souls and memories tied up within these stories live on. They continue to exist beside him and now\, beside us. Stephanie\, ARC Reviewer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the speaker \n \n \n Geoff Carr\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Geoff Carr is a Ballarat-based author of short stories inspired by his childhood. He grew up in the Wimmera town of Stawell and cherished his caring and loving upbringing enveloped in the blue silhouettes of the famous Grampians and lesser- known Black Ranges. This was the setting before commencing his teaching career and settling in Ballarat for over fifty years. Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin; Other Stories is a collection of short stories that presents a sentimental portrait of boyhood and bush life told through Carr’s quintessentially Australian humour and country charm. ‘This is a book of memories. I want people to be transported back in time where thosenostalgic memories can be reignited\,’ Carr said. Early readers have praised this collection as both a tribute and a celebration\, “like catching up with old friends\, swapping stories\, laughter and tears.” The standout piece\, Through Coloured Windows explores grief with striking tenderness\, while the book’s namesake\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin is celebration as “one-of-a-kind\, laugh-your-ass-off funny!” \n \n \n \n \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 will be supported by Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $13 per person plus booking fee\, general admission | $9 for BMI members plus booking fee. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/minervas-secrets-night-tours-12-dec-25/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Important Dates,Night Tours,Tours ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/received_908662326866361-e1708918930337.jpeg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251211T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251211T210000 DTSTAMP:20260418T010922 CREATED:20250212T034546Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250321T110602Z UID:62004-1765481400-1765486800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Ballarat Film Society | ​Little Richard: I am Everything DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat – Nostalgic memories of Stawell & Ballarat – 1950s and 1960s \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n5:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n6:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$9 – $13 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Geoff Carr\, author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Spike is a young boy in 1950s Australia\, surrounded by sprawling landscapesand a menagerie of animals. Together with his friends Leany and Riddy\, they do what all young boys in the bush do: make their own fun. From chooks in outhouses\, exploding trees and rats at the flicks to standing up to backyard bullies\, farewelling dear friends and making unexpected new ones\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories traverses the passing of time\, documenting a life well lived and fondly remembered. Laced with dry humour and typical understated Australian cadence\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories invites readers to look back at life in a time gone by and delight in the charming stories of author Geoff Carr. \n \n \n \n ReviewsDickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories is unlike anything I’ve read before. It feels like a eulogy – not a sombre one\, but more in the way you might catch up with friends from years gone\, with a beer in hand\, and swap stories and laughter and tears. It’s filled with absurdity\, heartbreak\, humour and a quiet reverence that never quite leaves\, even long after you’ve finished reading it. These aren’t just stories; they’re lived-in moments\, softened by age and nostalgia and celebratory for the joy of having truly known someone. Among that\, Carr gives us – the reader – something precious: the gift of sharing. These are no longer just his memories – they’re ours. And in that act of sharing\, the people and characters and souls and memories tied up within these stories live on. They continue to exist beside him and now\, beside us. Stephanie\, ARC Reviewer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the speaker \n \n \n Geoff Carr\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Geoff Carr is a Ballarat-based author of short stories inspired by his childhood. He grew up in the Wimmera town of Stawell and cherished his caring and loving upbringing enveloped in the blue silhouettes of the famous Grampians and lesser- known Black Ranges. This was the setting before commencing his teaching career and settling in Ballarat for over fifty years. Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin; Other Stories is a collection of short stories that presents a sentimental portrait of boyhood and bush life told through Carr’s quintessentially Australian humour and country charm. ‘This is a book of memories. I want people to be transported back in time where thosenostalgic memories can be reignited\,’ Carr said. Early readers have praised this collection as both a tribute and a celebration\, “like catching up with old friends\, swapping stories\, laughter and tears.” The standout piece\, Through Coloured Windows explores grief with striking tenderness\, while the book’s namesake\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin is celebration as “one-of-a-kind\, laugh-your-ass-off funny!” \n \n \n \n \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 will be supported by Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $13 per person plus booking fee\, general admission | $9 for BMI members plus booking fee. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/bfs-little-richard/ 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/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/sqaure-promo-bfs5.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251210T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251210T200000 DTSTAMP:20260418T010922 CREATED:20250917T031528Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250917T031619Z UID:67361-1765393200-1765396800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Kadampa Meditation Series | Meditations on the Mind: How to Create Mental Space DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat – Nostalgic memories of Stawell & Ballarat – 1950s and 1960s \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n5:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n6:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$9 – $13 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Geoff Carr\, author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Spike is a young boy in 1950s Australia\, surrounded by sprawling landscapesand a menagerie of animals. Together with his friends Leany and Riddy\, they do what all young boys in the bush do: make their own fun. From chooks in outhouses\, exploding trees and rats at the flicks to standing up to backyard bullies\, farewelling dear friends and making unexpected new ones\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories traverses the passing of time\, documenting a life well lived and fondly remembered. Laced with dry humour and typical understated Australian cadence\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories invites readers to look back at life in a time gone by and delight in the charming stories of author Geoff Carr. \n \n \n \n ReviewsDickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories is unlike anything I’ve read before. It feels like a eulogy – not a sombre one\, but more in the way you might catch up with friends from years gone\, with a beer in hand\, and swap stories and laughter and tears. It’s filled with absurdity\, heartbreak\, humour and a quiet reverence that never quite leaves\, even long after you’ve finished reading it. These aren’t just stories; they’re lived-in moments\, softened by age and nostalgia and celebratory for the joy of having truly known someone. Among that\, Carr gives us – the reader – something precious: the gift of sharing. These are no longer just his memories – they’re ours. And in that act of sharing\, the people and characters and souls and memories tied up within these stories live on. They continue to exist beside him and now\, beside us. Stephanie\, ARC Reviewer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the speaker \n \n \n Geoff Carr\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Geoff Carr is a Ballarat-based author of short stories inspired by his childhood. He grew up in the Wimmera town of Stawell and cherished his caring and loving upbringing enveloped in the blue silhouettes of the famous Grampians and lesser- known Black Ranges. This was the setting before commencing his teaching career and settling in Ballarat for over fifty years. Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin; Other Stories is a collection of short stories that presents a sentimental portrait of boyhood and bush life told through Carr’s quintessentially Australian humour and country charm. ‘This is a book of memories. I want people to be transported back in time where thosenostalgic memories can be reignited\,’ Carr said. Early readers have praised this collection as both a tribute and a celebration\, “like catching up with old friends\, swapping stories\, laughter and tears.” The standout piece\, Through Coloured Windows explores grief with striking tenderness\, while the book’s namesake\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin is celebration as “one-of-a-kind\, laugh-your-ass-off funny!” \n \n \n \n \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 will be supported by Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $13 per person plus booking fee\, general admission | $9 for BMI members plus booking fee. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/kadampa-meditation-series-10-dec-2025/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:kadampa ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Med_on_mind_Sq.webp ORGANIZER;CN="Kadampa Meditation":MAILTO:info@kadampa.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251207T090000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251207T140000 DTSTAMP:20260418T010922 CREATED:20251110T010546Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251203T043313Z UID:68424-1765098000-1765116000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:BMI Christmas Market DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat – Nostalgic memories of Stawell & Ballarat – 1950s and 1960s \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n5:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n6:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$9 – $13 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Geoff Carr\, author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Spike is a young boy in 1950s Australia\, surrounded by sprawling landscapesand a menagerie of animals. Together with his friends Leany and Riddy\, they do what all young boys in the bush do: make their own fun. From chooks in outhouses\, exploding trees and rats at the flicks to standing up to backyard bullies\, farewelling dear friends and making unexpected new ones\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories traverses the passing of time\, documenting a life well lived and fondly remembered. Laced with dry humour and typical understated Australian cadence\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories invites readers to look back at life in a time gone by and delight in the charming stories of author Geoff Carr. \n \n \n \n ReviewsDickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories is unlike anything I’ve read before. It feels like a eulogy – not a sombre one\, but more in the way you might catch up with friends from years gone\, with a beer in hand\, and swap stories and laughter and tears. It’s filled with absurdity\, heartbreak\, humour and a quiet reverence that never quite leaves\, even long after you’ve finished reading it. These aren’t just stories; they’re lived-in moments\, softened by age and nostalgia and celebratory for the joy of having truly known someone. Among that\, Carr gives us – the reader – something precious: the gift of sharing. These are no longer just his memories – they’re ours. And in that act of sharing\, the people and characters and souls and memories tied up within these stories live on. They continue to exist beside him and now\, beside us. Stephanie\, ARC Reviewer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the speaker \n \n \n Geoff Carr\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Geoff Carr is a Ballarat-based author of short stories inspired by his childhood. He grew up in the Wimmera town of Stawell and cherished his caring and loving upbringing enveloped in the blue silhouettes of the famous Grampians and lesser- known Black Ranges. This was the setting before commencing his teaching career and settling in Ballarat for over fifty years. Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin; Other Stories is a collection of short stories that presents a sentimental portrait of boyhood and bush life told through Carr’s quintessentially Australian humour and country charm. ‘This is a book of memories. I want people to be transported back in time where thosenostalgic memories can be reignited\,’ Carr said. Early readers have praised this collection as both a tribute and a celebration\, “like catching up with old friends\, swapping stories\, laughter and tears.” The standout piece\, Through Coloured Windows explores grief with striking tenderness\, while the book’s namesake\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin is celebration as “one-of-a-kind\, laugh-your-ass-off funny!” \n \n \n \n \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 will be supported by Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $13 per person plus booking fee\, general admission | $9 for BMI members plus booking fee. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/bmi-christmas-market/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Art programs,Christmas,Fundraiser,Important Dates,Market ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/square-promo-christmas-market-calling-for-stallholders-v5-final-1.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251206T100000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251206T140000 DTSTAMP:20260418T010922 CREATED:20251110T024632Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251128T005707Z UID:68436-1765015200-1765029600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:BMI Christmas Book Sale DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat – Nostalgic memories of Stawell & Ballarat – 1950s and 1960s \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n5:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n6:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$9 – $13 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Geoff Carr\, author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Spike is a young boy in 1950s Australia\, surrounded by sprawling landscapesand a menagerie of animals. Together with his friends Leany and Riddy\, they do what all young boys in the bush do: make their own fun. From chooks in outhouses\, exploding trees and rats at the flicks to standing up to backyard bullies\, farewelling dear friends and making unexpected new ones\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories traverses the passing of time\, documenting a life well lived and fondly remembered. Laced with dry humour and typical understated Australian cadence\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories invites readers to look back at life in a time gone by and delight in the charming stories of author Geoff Carr. \n \n \n \n ReviewsDickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories is unlike anything I’ve read before. It feels like a eulogy – not a sombre one\, but more in the way you might catch up with friends from years gone\, with a beer in hand\, and swap stories and laughter and tears. It’s filled with absurdity\, heartbreak\, humour and a quiet reverence that never quite leaves\, even long after you’ve finished reading it. These aren’t just stories; they’re lived-in moments\, softened by age and nostalgia and celebratory for the joy of having truly known someone. Among that\, Carr gives us – the reader – something precious: the gift of sharing. These are no longer just his memories – they’re ours. And in that act of sharing\, the people and characters and souls and memories tied up within these stories live on. They continue to exist beside him and now\, beside us. Stephanie\, ARC Reviewer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the speaker \n \n \n Geoff Carr\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Geoff Carr is a Ballarat-based author of short stories inspired by his childhood. He grew up in the Wimmera town of Stawell and cherished his caring and loving upbringing enveloped in the blue silhouettes of the famous Grampians and lesser- known Black Ranges. This was the setting before commencing his teaching career and settling in Ballarat for over fifty years. Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin; Other Stories is a collection of short stories that presents a sentimental portrait of boyhood and bush life told through Carr’s quintessentially Australian humour and country charm. ‘This is a book of memories. I want people to be transported back in time where thosenostalgic memories can be reignited\,’ Carr said. Early readers have praised this collection as both a tribute and a celebration\, “like catching up with old friends\, swapping stories\, laughter and tears.” The standout piece\, Through Coloured Windows explores grief with striking tenderness\, while the book’s namesake\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin is celebration as “one-of-a-kind\, laugh-your-ass-off funny!” \n \n \n \n \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 will be supported by Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $13 per person plus booking fee\, general admission | $9 for BMI members plus booking fee. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/bmi-christmas-book-sale/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Fundraiser,Important Dates,Library,Market ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/book-sale-square-promo-christmas-1.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251203T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251203T200000 DTSTAMP:20260418T010922 CREATED:20250917T031355Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250917T031513Z UID:67359-1764788400-1764792000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Kadampa Meditation Series | Meditations on the Mind: How to Create Mental Space DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat – Nostalgic memories of Stawell & Ballarat – 1950s and 1960s \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n5:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n6:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$9 – $13 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Geoff Carr\, author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Spike is a young boy in 1950s Australia\, surrounded by sprawling landscapesand a menagerie of animals. Together with his friends Leany and Riddy\, they do what all young boys in the bush do: make their own fun. From chooks in outhouses\, exploding trees and rats at the flicks to standing up to backyard bullies\, farewelling dear friends and making unexpected new ones\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories traverses the passing of time\, documenting a life well lived and fondly remembered. Laced with dry humour and typical understated Australian cadence\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories invites readers to look back at life in a time gone by and delight in the charming stories of author Geoff Carr. \n \n \n \n ReviewsDickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories is unlike anything I’ve read before. It feels like a eulogy – not a sombre one\, but more in the way you might catch up with friends from years gone\, with a beer in hand\, and swap stories and laughter and tears. It’s filled with absurdity\, heartbreak\, humour and a quiet reverence that never quite leaves\, even long after you’ve finished reading it. These aren’t just stories; they’re lived-in moments\, softened by age and nostalgia and celebratory for the joy of having truly known someone. Among that\, Carr gives us – the reader – something precious: the gift of sharing. These are no longer just his memories – they’re ours. And in that act of sharing\, the people and characters and souls and memories tied up within these stories live on. They continue to exist beside him and now\, beside us. Stephanie\, ARC Reviewer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the speaker \n \n \n Geoff Carr\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Geoff Carr is a Ballarat-based author of short stories inspired by his childhood. He grew up in the Wimmera town of Stawell and cherished his caring and loving upbringing enveloped in the blue silhouettes of the famous Grampians and lesser- known Black Ranges. This was the setting before commencing his teaching career and settling in Ballarat for over fifty years. Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin; Other Stories is a collection of short stories that presents a sentimental portrait of boyhood and bush life told through Carr’s quintessentially Australian humour and country charm. ‘This is a book of memories. I want people to be transported back in time where thosenostalgic memories can be reignited\,’ Carr said. Early readers have praised this collection as both a tribute and a celebration\, “like catching up with old friends\, swapping stories\, laughter and tears.” The standout piece\, Through Coloured Windows explores grief with striking tenderness\, while the book’s namesake\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin is celebration as “one-of-a-kind\, laugh-your-ass-off funny!” \n \n \n \n \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 will be supported by Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $13 per person plus booking fee\, general admission | $9 for BMI members plus booking fee. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/kadampa-meditation-series-3-dec-2025/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:kadampa ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Med_on_mind_Sq.webp ORGANIZER;CN="Kadampa Meditation":MAILTO:info@kadampa.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251202T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251202T193000 DTSTAMP:20260418T010922 CREATED:20251113T001614Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251113T003410Z UID:68682-1764698400-1764703800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with William McInnes DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat – Nostalgic memories of Stawell & Ballarat – 1950s and 1960s \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n5:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n6:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$9 – $13 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Geoff Carr\, author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Spike is a young boy in 1950s Australia\, surrounded by sprawling landscapesand a menagerie of animals. Together with his friends Leany and Riddy\, they do what all young boys in the bush do: make their own fun. From chooks in outhouses\, exploding trees and rats at the flicks to standing up to backyard bullies\, farewelling dear friends and making unexpected new ones\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories traverses the passing of time\, documenting a life well lived and fondly remembered. Laced with dry humour and typical understated Australian cadence\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories invites readers to look back at life in a time gone by and delight in the charming stories of author Geoff Carr. \n \n \n \n ReviewsDickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories is unlike anything I’ve read before. It feels like a eulogy – not a sombre one\, but more in the way you might catch up with friends from years gone\, with a beer in hand\, and swap stories and laughter and tears. It’s filled with absurdity\, heartbreak\, humour and a quiet reverence that never quite leaves\, even long after you’ve finished reading it. These aren’t just stories; they’re lived-in moments\, softened by age and nostalgia and celebratory for the joy of having truly known someone. Among that\, Carr gives us – the reader – something precious: the gift of sharing. These are no longer just his memories – they’re ours. And in that act of sharing\, the people and characters and souls and memories tied up within these stories live on. They continue to exist beside him and now\, beside us. Stephanie\, ARC Reviewer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the speaker \n \n \n Geoff Carr\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Geoff Carr is a Ballarat-based author of short stories inspired by his childhood. He grew up in the Wimmera town of Stawell and cherished his caring and loving upbringing enveloped in the blue silhouettes of the famous Grampians and lesser- known Black Ranges. This was the setting before commencing his teaching career and settling in Ballarat for over fifty years. Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin; Other Stories is a collection of short stories that presents a sentimental portrait of boyhood and bush life told through Carr’s quintessentially Australian humour and country charm. ‘This is a book of memories. I want people to be transported back in time where thosenostalgic memories can be reignited\,’ Carr said. Early readers have praised this collection as both a tribute and a celebration\, “like catching up with old friends\, swapping stories\, laughter and tears.” The standout piece\, Through Coloured Windows explores grief with striking tenderness\, while the book’s namesake\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin is celebration as “one-of-a-kind\, laugh-your-ass-off funny!” \n \n \n \n \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 will be supported by Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $13 per person plus booking fee\, general admission | $9 for BMI members plus booking fee. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/william-mcinnes/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/william-sq-promo.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251129T200000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251129T213000 DTSTAMP:20260418T010922 CREATED:20250714T024250Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250813T025904Z UID:66208-1764446400-1764451800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Daniel Muggleton: You Might Be White\, I May Be Crazy DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat – Nostalgic memories of Stawell & Ballarat – 1950s and 1960s \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n5:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n6:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$9 – $13 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Geoff Carr\, author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Spike is a young boy in 1950s Australia\, surrounded by sprawling landscapesand a menagerie of animals. Together with his friends Leany and Riddy\, they do what all young boys in the bush do: make their own fun. From chooks in outhouses\, exploding trees and rats at the flicks to standing up to backyard bullies\, farewelling dear friends and making unexpected new ones\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories traverses the passing of time\, documenting a life well lived and fondly remembered. Laced with dry humour and typical understated Australian cadence\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories invites readers to look back at life in a time gone by and delight in the charming stories of author Geoff Carr. \n \n \n \n ReviewsDickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories is unlike anything I’ve read before. It feels like a eulogy – not a sombre one\, but more in the way you might catch up with friends from years gone\, with a beer in hand\, and swap stories and laughter and tears. It’s filled with absurdity\, heartbreak\, humour and a quiet reverence that never quite leaves\, even long after you’ve finished reading it. These aren’t just stories; they’re lived-in moments\, softened by age and nostalgia and celebratory for the joy of having truly known someone. Among that\, Carr gives us – the reader – something precious: the gift of sharing. These are no longer just his memories – they’re ours. And in that act of sharing\, the people and characters and souls and memories tied up within these stories live on. They continue to exist beside him and now\, beside us. Stephanie\, ARC Reviewer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the speaker \n \n \n Geoff Carr\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Geoff Carr is a Ballarat-based author of short stories inspired by his childhood. He grew up in the Wimmera town of Stawell and cherished his caring and loving upbringing enveloped in the blue silhouettes of the famous Grampians and lesser- known Black Ranges. This was the setting before commencing his teaching career and settling in Ballarat for over fifty years. Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin; Other Stories is a collection of short stories that presents a sentimental portrait of boyhood and bush life told through Carr’s quintessentially Australian humour and country charm. ‘This is a book of memories. I want people to be transported back in time where thosenostalgic memories can be reignited\,’ Carr said. Early readers have praised this collection as both a tribute and a celebration\, “like catching up with old friends\, swapping stories\, laughter and tears.” The standout piece\, Through Coloured Windows explores grief with striking tenderness\, while the book’s namesake\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin is celebration as “one-of-a-kind\, laugh-your-ass-off funny!” \n \n \n \n \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 will be supported by Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $13 per person plus booking fee\, general admission | $9 for BMI members plus booking fee. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/daniel-muggleton/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Comedy ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/square-promo-daniel-muggleton.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251128T200000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251128T213000 DTSTAMP:20260418T010922 CREATED:20250408T004608Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250813T031528Z UID:64310-1764360000-1764365400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Akmal | Live Comedy at the BMI DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat – Nostalgic memories of Stawell & Ballarat – 1950s and 1960s \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n5:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n6:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$9 – $13 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Geoff Carr\, author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Spike is a young boy in 1950s Australia\, surrounded by sprawling landscapesand a menagerie of animals. Together with his friends Leany and Riddy\, they do what all young boys in the bush do: make their own fun. From chooks in outhouses\, exploding trees and rats at the flicks to standing up to backyard bullies\, farewelling dear friends and making unexpected new ones\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories traverses the passing of time\, documenting a life well lived and fondly remembered. Laced with dry humour and typical understated Australian cadence\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories invites readers to look back at life in a time gone by and delight in the charming stories of author Geoff Carr. \n \n \n \n ReviewsDickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories is unlike anything I’ve read before. It feels like a eulogy – not a sombre one\, but more in the way you might catch up with friends from years gone\, with a beer in hand\, and swap stories and laughter and tears. It’s filled with absurdity\, heartbreak\, humour and a quiet reverence that never quite leaves\, even long after you’ve finished reading it. These aren’t just stories; they’re lived-in moments\, softened by age and nostalgia and celebratory for the joy of having truly known someone. Among that\, Carr gives us – the reader – something precious: the gift of sharing. These are no longer just his memories – they’re ours. And in that act of sharing\, the people and characters and souls and memories tied up within these stories live on. They continue to exist beside him and now\, beside us. Stephanie\, ARC Reviewer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the speaker \n \n \n Geoff Carr\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Geoff Carr is a Ballarat-based author of short stories inspired by his childhood. He grew up in the Wimmera town of Stawell and cherished his caring and loving upbringing enveloped in the blue silhouettes of the famous Grampians and lesser- known Black Ranges. This was the setting before commencing his teaching career and settling in Ballarat for over fifty years. Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin; Other Stories is a collection of short stories that presents a sentimental portrait of boyhood and bush life told through Carr’s quintessentially Australian humour and country charm. ‘This is a book of memories. I want people to be transported back in time where thosenostalgic memories can be reignited\,’ Carr said. Early readers have praised this collection as both a tribute and a celebration\, “like catching up with old friends\, swapping stories\, laughter and tears.” The standout piece\, Through Coloured Windows explores grief with striking tenderness\, while the book’s namesake\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin is celebration as “one-of-a-kind\, laugh-your-ass-off funny!” \n \n \n \n \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 will be supported by Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $13 per person plus booking fee\, general admission | $9 for BMI members plus booking fee. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/akmal/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Comedy ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/promo-square-akmal.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251126T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251126T200000 DTSTAMP:20260418T010922 CREATED:20250917T031231Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250917T031337Z UID:67356-1764183600-1764187200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Kadampa Meditation Series | Meditations on the Mind: How to Create Mental Space DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat – Nostalgic memories of Stawell & Ballarat – 1950s and 1960s \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n5:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n6:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$9 – $13 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Geoff Carr\, author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Spike is a young boy in 1950s Australia\, surrounded by sprawling landscapesand a menagerie of animals. Together with his friends Leany and Riddy\, they do what all young boys in the bush do: make their own fun. From chooks in outhouses\, exploding trees and rats at the flicks to standing up to backyard bullies\, farewelling dear friends and making unexpected new ones\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories traverses the passing of time\, documenting a life well lived and fondly remembered. Laced with dry humour and typical understated Australian cadence\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories invites readers to look back at life in a time gone by and delight in the charming stories of author Geoff Carr. \n \n \n \n ReviewsDickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories is unlike anything I’ve read before. It feels like a eulogy – not a sombre one\, but more in the way you might catch up with friends from years gone\, with a beer in hand\, and swap stories and laughter and tears. It’s filled with absurdity\, heartbreak\, humour and a quiet reverence that never quite leaves\, even long after you’ve finished reading it. These aren’t just stories; they’re lived-in moments\, softened by age and nostalgia and celebratory for the joy of having truly known someone. Among that\, Carr gives us – the reader – something precious: the gift of sharing. These are no longer just his memories – they’re ours. And in that act of sharing\, the people and characters and souls and memories tied up within these stories live on. They continue to exist beside him and now\, beside us. Stephanie\, ARC Reviewer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the speaker \n \n \n Geoff Carr\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Geoff Carr is a Ballarat-based author of short stories inspired by his childhood. He grew up in the Wimmera town of Stawell and cherished his caring and loving upbringing enveloped in the blue silhouettes of the famous Grampians and lesser- known Black Ranges. This was the setting before commencing his teaching career and settling in Ballarat for over fifty years. Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin; Other Stories is a collection of short stories that presents a sentimental portrait of boyhood and bush life told through Carr’s quintessentially Australian humour and country charm. ‘This is a book of memories. I want people to be transported back in time where thosenostalgic memories can be reignited\,’ Carr said. Early readers have praised this collection as both a tribute and a celebration\, “like catching up with old friends\, swapping stories\, laughter and tears.” The standout piece\, Through Coloured Windows explores grief with striking tenderness\, while the book’s namesake\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin is celebration as “one-of-a-kind\, laugh-your-ass-off funny!” \n \n \n \n \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 will be supported by Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $13 per person plus booking fee\, general admission | $9 for BMI members plus booking fee. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/kadampa-meditation-series-26-nov-2025/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:kadampa ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Med_on_mind_Sq.webp ORGANIZER;CN="Kadampa Meditation":MAILTO:info@kadampa.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251126T173000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251126T183000 DTSTAMP:20260418T010922 CREATED:20250728T055539Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251110T233614Z UID:66413-1764178200-1764181800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Twilight Talks 2025\, Season 5\, Recent Years | Ballarat Arts Foundation: 25 Years Old\, Presented by Paula Nicholson DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat – Nostalgic memories of Stawell & Ballarat – 1950s and 1960s \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n5:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n6:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$9 – $13 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Geoff Carr\, author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Spike is a young boy in 1950s Australia\, surrounded by sprawling landscapesand a menagerie of animals. Together with his friends Leany and Riddy\, they do what all young boys in the bush do: make their own fun. From chooks in outhouses\, exploding trees and rats at the flicks to standing up to backyard bullies\, farewelling dear friends and making unexpected new ones\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories traverses the passing of time\, documenting a life well lived and fondly remembered. Laced with dry humour and typical understated Australian cadence\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories invites readers to look back at life in a time gone by and delight in the charming stories of author Geoff Carr. \n \n \n \n ReviewsDickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories is unlike anything I’ve read before. It feels like a eulogy – not a sombre one\, but more in the way you might catch up with friends from years gone\, with a beer in hand\, and swap stories and laughter and tears. It’s filled with absurdity\, heartbreak\, humour and a quiet reverence that never quite leaves\, even long after you’ve finished reading it. These aren’t just stories; they’re lived-in moments\, softened by age and nostalgia and celebratory for the joy of having truly known someone. Among that\, Carr gives us – the reader – something precious: the gift of sharing. These are no longer just his memories – they’re ours. And in that act of sharing\, the people and characters and souls and memories tied up within these stories live on. They continue to exist beside him and now\, beside us. Stephanie\, ARC Reviewer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the speaker \n \n \n Geoff Carr\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Geoff Carr is a Ballarat-based author of short stories inspired by his childhood. He grew up in the Wimmera town of Stawell and cherished his caring and loving upbringing enveloped in the blue silhouettes of the famous Grampians and lesser- known Black Ranges. This was the setting before commencing his teaching career and settling in Ballarat for over fifty years. Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin; Other Stories is a collection of short stories that presents a sentimental portrait of boyhood and bush life told through Carr’s quintessentially Australian humour and country charm. ‘This is a book of memories. I want people to be transported back in time where thosenostalgic memories can be reignited\,’ Carr said. Early readers have praised this collection as both a tribute and a celebration\, “like catching up with old friends\, swapping stories\, laughter and tears.” The standout piece\, Through Coloured Windows explores grief with striking tenderness\, while the book’s namesake\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin is celebration as “one-of-a-kind\, laugh-your-ass-off funny!” \n \n \n \n \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 will be supported by Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $13 per person plus booking fee\, general admission | $9 for BMI members plus booking fee. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/ballarat-arts-foundation/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Fundraiser,Important Dates,Members,Talk,Twilight Talks ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/square-promo-2025-ballarat-arts-foundation.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251122T184500 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251122T223000 DTSTAMP:20260418T010922 CREATED:20251017T035401Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251110T042444Z UID:68049-1763837100-1763850600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Small Things DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat – Nostalgic memories of Stawell & Ballarat – 1950s and 1960s \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n5:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n6:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$9 – $13 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Geoff Carr\, author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Spike is a young boy in 1950s Australia\, surrounded by sprawling landscapesand a menagerie of animals. Together with his friends Leany and Riddy\, they do what all young boys in the bush do: make their own fun. From chooks in outhouses\, exploding trees and rats at the flicks to standing up to backyard bullies\, farewelling dear friends and making unexpected new ones\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories traverses the passing of time\, documenting a life well lived and fondly remembered. Laced with dry humour and typical understated Australian cadence\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories invites readers to look back at life in a time gone by and delight in the charming stories of author Geoff Carr. \n \n \n \n ReviewsDickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories is unlike anything I’ve read before. It feels like a eulogy – not a sombre one\, but more in the way you might catch up with friends from years gone\, with a beer in hand\, and swap stories and laughter and tears. It’s filled with absurdity\, heartbreak\, humour and a quiet reverence that never quite leaves\, even long after you’ve finished reading it. These aren’t just stories; they’re lived-in moments\, softened by age and nostalgia and celebratory for the joy of having truly known someone. Among that\, Carr gives us – the reader – something precious: the gift of sharing. These are no longer just his memories – they’re ours. And in that act of sharing\, the people and characters and souls and memories tied up within these stories live on. They continue to exist beside him and now\, beside us. Stephanie\, ARC Reviewer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the speaker \n \n \n Geoff Carr\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Geoff Carr is a Ballarat-based author of short stories inspired by his childhood. He grew up in the Wimmera town of Stawell and cherished his caring and loving upbringing enveloped in the blue silhouettes of the famous Grampians and lesser- known Black Ranges. This was the setting before commencing his teaching career and settling in Ballarat for over fifty years. Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin; Other Stories is a collection of short stories that presents a sentimental portrait of boyhood and bush life told through Carr’s quintessentially Australian humour and country charm. ‘This is a book of memories. I want people to be transported back in time where thosenostalgic memories can be reignited\,’ Carr said. Early readers have praised this collection as both a tribute and a celebration\, “like catching up with old friends\, swapping stories\, laughter and tears.” The standout piece\, Through Coloured Windows explores grief with striking tenderness\, while the book’s namesake\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin is celebration as “one-of-a-kind\, laugh-your-ass-off funny!” \n \n \n \n \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 will be supported by Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $13 per person plus booking fee\, general admission | $9 for BMI members plus booking fee. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/small-things/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Live Music ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/sq-promo.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251122T100000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251123T160000 DTSTAMP:20260418T010922 CREATED:20240822T062240Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251120T012503Z UID:58498-1763805600-1763913600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Open Garden & Devonshire Tea - BMI Fundraiser | Errard Hall DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat – Nostalgic memories of Stawell & Ballarat – 1950s and 1960s \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n5:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n6:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$9 – $13 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Geoff Carr\, author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Spike is a young boy in 1950s Australia\, surrounded by sprawling landscapesand a menagerie of animals. Together with his friends Leany and Riddy\, they do what all young boys in the bush do: make their own fun. From chooks in outhouses\, exploding trees and rats at the flicks to standing up to backyard bullies\, farewelling dear friends and making unexpected new ones\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories traverses the passing of time\, documenting a life well lived and fondly remembered. Laced with dry humour and typical understated Australian cadence\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories invites readers to look back at life in a time gone by and delight in the charming stories of author Geoff Carr. \n \n \n \n ReviewsDickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories is unlike anything I’ve read before. It feels like a eulogy – not a sombre one\, but more in the way you might catch up with friends from years gone\, with a beer in hand\, and swap stories and laughter and tears. It’s filled with absurdity\, heartbreak\, humour and a quiet reverence that never quite leaves\, even long after you’ve finished reading it. These aren’t just stories; they’re lived-in moments\, softened by age and nostalgia and celebratory for the joy of having truly known someone. Among that\, Carr gives us – the reader – something precious: the gift of sharing. These are no longer just his memories – they’re ours. And in that act of sharing\, the people and characters and souls and memories tied up within these stories live on. They continue to exist beside him and now\, beside us. Stephanie\, ARC Reviewer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the speaker \n \n \n Geoff Carr\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Geoff Carr is a Ballarat-based author of short stories inspired by his childhood. He grew up in the Wimmera town of Stawell and cherished his caring and loving upbringing enveloped in the blue silhouettes of the famous Grampians and lesser- known Black Ranges. This was the setting before commencing his teaching career and settling in Ballarat for over fifty years. Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin; Other Stories is a collection of short stories that presents a sentimental portrait of boyhood and bush life told through Carr’s quintessentially Australian humour and country charm. ‘This is a book of memories. I want people to be transported back in time where thosenostalgic memories can be reignited\,’ Carr said. Early readers have praised this collection as both a tribute and a celebration\, “like catching up with old friends\, swapping stories\, laughter and tears.” The standout piece\, Through Coloured Windows explores grief with striking tenderness\, while the book’s namesake\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin is celebration as “one-of-a-kind\, laugh-your-ass-off funny!” \n \n \n \n \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 will be supported by Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $13 per person plus booking fee\, general admission | $9 for BMI members plus booking fee. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/open-garden-fundraiser-2025/ LOCATION:Errard Hall\, Errard Street North\, Ballarat Central\, City of Ballarat\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Fundraiser,Important Dates,Members,Urban Agriculture Month ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/square-promo-errard-hall.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251121T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251121T210000 DTSTAMP:20260418T010922 CREATED:20250917T004106Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251110T233455Z UID:67335-1763753400-1763758800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Ben Knight: The Parent Teacher Interview | Show now SOLD OUT DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat – Nostalgic memories of Stawell & Ballarat – 1950s and 1960s \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n5:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n6:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$9 – $13 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Geoff Carr\, author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Spike is a young boy in 1950s Australia\, surrounded by sprawling landscapesand a menagerie of animals. Together with his friends Leany and Riddy\, they do what all young boys in the bush do: make their own fun. From chooks in outhouses\, exploding trees and rats at the flicks to standing up to backyard bullies\, farewelling dear friends and making unexpected new ones\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories traverses the passing of time\, documenting a life well lived and fondly remembered. Laced with dry humour and typical understated Australian cadence\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories invites readers to look back at life in a time gone by and delight in the charming stories of author Geoff Carr. \n \n \n \n ReviewsDickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories is unlike anything I’ve read before. It feels like a eulogy – not a sombre one\, but more in the way you might catch up with friends from years gone\, with a beer in hand\, and swap stories and laughter and tears. It’s filled with absurdity\, heartbreak\, humour and a quiet reverence that never quite leaves\, even long after you’ve finished reading it. These aren’t just stories; they’re lived-in moments\, softened by age and nostalgia and celebratory for the joy of having truly known someone. Among that\, Carr gives us – the reader – something precious: the gift of sharing. These are no longer just his memories – they’re ours. And in that act of sharing\, the people and characters and souls and memories tied up within these stories live on. They continue to exist beside him and now\, beside us. Stephanie\, ARC Reviewer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the speaker \n \n \n Geoff Carr\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Geoff Carr is a Ballarat-based author of short stories inspired by his childhood. He grew up in the Wimmera town of Stawell and cherished his caring and loving upbringing enveloped in the blue silhouettes of the famous Grampians and lesser- known Black Ranges. This was the setting before commencing his teaching career and settling in Ballarat for over fifty years. Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin; Other Stories is a collection of short stories that presents a sentimental portrait of boyhood and bush life told through Carr’s quintessentially Australian humour and country charm. ‘This is a book of memories. I want people to be transported back in time where thosenostalgic memories can be reignited\,’ Carr said. Early readers have praised this collection as both a tribute and a celebration\, “like catching up with old friends\, swapping stories\, laughter and tears.” The standout piece\, Through Coloured Windows explores grief with striking tenderness\, while the book’s namesake\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin is celebration as “one-of-a-kind\, laugh-your-ass-off funny!” \n \n \n \n \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 will be supported by Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $13 per person plus booking fee\, general admission | $9 for BMI members plus booking fee. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/ben-knight-parent-teacher/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Comedy ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/ben-knight-sq-promo.webp ORGANIZER;CN="KEG Touring":MAILTO:Contact@kegtouring.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251120T183000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251120T200000 DTSTAMP:20260418T010922 CREATED:20251110T031233Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251110T031636Z UID:68444-1763663400-1763668800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:An Evening with Peter FitzSimons AM DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat – Nostalgic memories of Stawell & Ballarat – 1950s and 1960s \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n5:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n6:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$9 – $13 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Geoff Carr\, author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Spike is a young boy in 1950s Australia\, surrounded by sprawling landscapesand a menagerie of animals. Together with his friends Leany and Riddy\, they do what all young boys in the bush do: make their own fun. From chooks in outhouses\, exploding trees and rats at the flicks to standing up to backyard bullies\, farewelling dear friends and making unexpected new ones\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories traverses the passing of time\, documenting a life well lived and fondly remembered. Laced with dry humour and typical understated Australian cadence\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories invites readers to look back at life in a time gone by and delight in the charming stories of author Geoff Carr. \n \n \n \n ReviewsDickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories is unlike anything I’ve read before. It feels like a eulogy – not a sombre one\, but more in the way you might catch up with friends from years gone\, with a beer in hand\, and swap stories and laughter and tears. It’s filled with absurdity\, heartbreak\, humour and a quiet reverence that never quite leaves\, even long after you’ve finished reading it. These aren’t just stories; they’re lived-in moments\, softened by age and nostalgia and celebratory for the joy of having truly known someone. Among that\, Carr gives us – the reader – something precious: the gift of sharing. These are no longer just his memories – they’re ours. And in that act of sharing\, the people and characters and souls and memories tied up within these stories live on. They continue to exist beside him and now\, beside us. Stephanie\, ARC Reviewer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the speaker \n \n \n Geoff Carr\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Geoff Carr is a Ballarat-based author of short stories inspired by his childhood. He grew up in the Wimmera town of Stawell and cherished his caring and loving upbringing enveloped in the blue silhouettes of the famous Grampians and lesser- known Black Ranges. This was the setting before commencing his teaching career and settling in Ballarat for over fifty years. Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin; Other Stories is a collection of short stories that presents a sentimental portrait of boyhood and bush life told through Carr’s quintessentially Australian humour and country charm. ‘This is a book of memories. I want people to be transported back in time where thosenostalgic memories can be reignited\,’ Carr said. Early readers have praised this collection as both a tribute and a celebration\, “like catching up with old friends\, swapping stories\, laughter and tears.” The standout piece\, Through Coloured Windows explores grief with striking tenderness\, while the book’s namesake\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin is celebration as “one-of-a-kind\, laugh-your-ass-off funny!” \n \n \n \n \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 will be supported by Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $13 per person plus booking fee\, general admission | $9 for BMI members plus booking fee. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/an-evening-with-peter-fitzsimons-am/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/cover-peter-fitzsimonos-book-e1762145093105.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251119T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251119T200000 DTSTAMP:20260418T010922 CREATED:20250917T030336Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250917T031134Z UID:67346-1763578800-1763582400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Kadampa Meditation Series | Meditations on the Mind: How to Create Mental Space DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat – Nostalgic memories of Stawell & Ballarat – 1950s and 1960s \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n5:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n6:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$9 – $13 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Geoff Carr\, author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Spike is a young boy in 1950s Australia\, surrounded by sprawling landscapesand a menagerie of animals. Together with his friends Leany and Riddy\, they do what all young boys in the bush do: make their own fun. From chooks in outhouses\, exploding trees and rats at the flicks to standing up to backyard bullies\, farewelling dear friends and making unexpected new ones\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories traverses the passing of time\, documenting a life well lived and fondly remembered. Laced with dry humour and typical understated Australian cadence\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories invites readers to look back at life in a time gone by and delight in the charming stories of author Geoff Carr. \n \n \n \n ReviewsDickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories is unlike anything I’ve read before. It feels like a eulogy – not a sombre one\, but more in the way you might catch up with friends from years gone\, with a beer in hand\, and swap stories and laughter and tears. It’s filled with absurdity\, heartbreak\, humour and a quiet reverence that never quite leaves\, even long after you’ve finished reading it. These aren’t just stories; they’re lived-in moments\, softened by age and nostalgia and celebratory for the joy of having truly known someone. Among that\, Carr gives us – the reader – something precious: the gift of sharing. These are no longer just his memories – they’re ours. And in that act of sharing\, the people and characters and souls and memories tied up within these stories live on. They continue to exist beside him and now\, beside us. Stephanie\, ARC Reviewer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the speaker \n \n \n Geoff Carr\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Geoff Carr is a Ballarat-based author of short stories inspired by his childhood. He grew up in the Wimmera town of Stawell and cherished his caring and loving upbringing enveloped in the blue silhouettes of the famous Grampians and lesser- known Black Ranges. This was the setting before commencing his teaching career and settling in Ballarat for over fifty years. Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin; Other Stories is a collection of short stories that presents a sentimental portrait of boyhood and bush life told through Carr’s quintessentially Australian humour and country charm. ‘This is a book of memories. I want people to be transported back in time where thosenostalgic memories can be reignited\,’ Carr said. Early readers have praised this collection as both a tribute and a celebration\, “like catching up with old friends\, swapping stories\, laughter and tears.” The standout piece\, Through Coloured Windows explores grief with striking tenderness\, while the book’s namesake\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin is celebration as “one-of-a-kind\, laugh-your-ass-off funny!” \n \n \n \n \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 will be supported by Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $13 per person plus booking fee\, general admission | $9 for BMI members plus booking fee. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/kadampa-meditation-series-19-nov-2025/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:kadampa ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Med_on_mind_Sq.webp ORGANIZER;CN="Kadampa Meditation":MAILTO:info@kadampa.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251119T173000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251119T183000 DTSTAMP:20260418T010922 CREATED:20250728T054722Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251110T232935Z UID:66407-1763573400-1763577000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Twilight Talks 2025\, Season 5\, Recent Years | Ballarat's Her Majesty's Reinvention\, Presented by Richard Nicholson DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat – Nostalgic memories of Stawell & Ballarat – 1950s and 1960s \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n5:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n6:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$9 – $13 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Geoff Carr\, author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Spike is a young boy in 1950s Australia\, surrounded by sprawling landscapesand a menagerie of animals. Together with his friends Leany and Riddy\, they do what all young boys in the bush do: make their own fun. From chooks in outhouses\, exploding trees and rats at the flicks to standing up to backyard bullies\, farewelling dear friends and making unexpected new ones\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories traverses the passing of time\, documenting a life well lived and fondly remembered. Laced with dry humour and typical understated Australian cadence\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories invites readers to look back at life in a time gone by and delight in the charming stories of author Geoff Carr. \n \n \n \n ReviewsDickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories is unlike anything I’ve read before. It feels like a eulogy – not a sombre one\, but more in the way you might catch up with friends from years gone\, with a beer in hand\, and swap stories and laughter and tears. It’s filled with absurdity\, heartbreak\, humour and a quiet reverence that never quite leaves\, even long after you’ve finished reading it. These aren’t just stories; they’re lived-in moments\, softened by age and nostalgia and celebratory for the joy of having truly known someone. Among that\, Carr gives us – the reader – something precious: the gift of sharing. These are no longer just his memories – they’re ours. And in that act of sharing\, the people and characters and souls and memories tied up within these stories live on. They continue to exist beside him and now\, beside us. Stephanie\, ARC Reviewer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the speaker \n \n \n Geoff Carr\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Geoff Carr is a Ballarat-based author of short stories inspired by his childhood. He grew up in the Wimmera town of Stawell and cherished his caring and loving upbringing enveloped in the blue silhouettes of the famous Grampians and lesser- known Black Ranges. This was the setting before commencing his teaching career and settling in Ballarat for over fifty years. Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin; Other Stories is a collection of short stories that presents a sentimental portrait of boyhood and bush life told through Carr’s quintessentially Australian humour and country charm. ‘This is a book of memories. I want people to be transported back in time where thosenostalgic memories can be reignited\,’ Carr said. Early readers have praised this collection as both a tribute and a celebration\, “like catching up with old friends\, swapping stories\, laughter and tears.” The standout piece\, Through Coloured Windows explores grief with striking tenderness\, while the book’s namesake\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin is celebration as “one-of-a-kind\, laugh-your-ass-off funny!” \n \n \n \n \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 will be supported by Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $13 per person plus booking fee\, general admission | $9 for BMI members plus booking fee. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/her-majestys-reinvention/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Fundraiser,Important Dates,Members,Talk,Twilight Talks ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/square-promo-2025-her-majestys-final.png END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR