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 END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251005T150000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251005T170000 DTSTAMP:20260413T080426 CREATED:20250709T015027Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250905T044106Z UID:66091-1759676400-1759683600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Three Russian Piano Trios DESCRIPTION:Dame Nellie Melba Celebration Performance \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 18\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n2:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n4:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$39.96 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Venue \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 An afternoon of song\, arias and duets…The BMI in partnership with Melba Opera Trust. Meet the 2025 Melba artists\, as they perform a repertoire that celebrates the Birthday of Dame Nellie Melba – program coming soon… \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Artists \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n SOPHIE HAMERBritish-Australian Sophie Hamer holds a Bachelor of Music (Classical Vocal Performance) from the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts. Her roles include Ino (Australian Premiere of Eccles’ Semele)\, Angelina (Trial by Jury)\, Mabel(The Pirates of Penzance)\, and The Dew Fairy (Hansel and Gretel). Sophie has appeared as the soprano soloist in the Australian premiere of Goodall’s Invictus: A Passion\, Messiah\,  Jauchzet Gott in allen Landen and in Enchanted Encounters – Songs of the Supernatural with West Australian Opera. She is the current recipient of The Amelia Joscelyne Memorial Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n AIDAN HODDERAidan Hodder holds a Master of Music Studies from Queensland Conservatorium\, Griffith University. Aidan made his professional debut in 2023 in State Opera South Australia’s G & S FEST\, singing John Wellington Wells (The Sorcerer). Recently Aidan performed as Samuel (The Pirates of Penzance) at Queensland Performing Arts Centre presented by Prospero Arts and directed Stuart Maunder AM. Aidan is an advocate for children’s education and currently works for the Brisbane-based educational entertainment company Dino Encounters. He is the current recipient of the John Wegner AO Opera Scholarship and the Max & Jill Schultz Opera Society Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n CHLOE JAMES Chloe James holds a Bachelor of Music (Classical Voice) and a Master of Music (Opera Performance) from the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music\, and she is an alumna of Opera Scholars Australia. Chloe’s performing credits include Hansel and Gretel\, The Magic Flute\, and The Old Maid and the Thief (Melbourne Conservatorium)\, as well as English Eccentrics\, Parrwang Lifts the Sky\, The Grumpiest Boy in the World and Il Mago di Oz (Victorian Opera). She is the current recipient of the Ruskin Opera Scholarship and the Jo Horgan & Peter Wetenhall Opera Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n SHAROLYN KIMMORLEY AM After studying at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music\, Sharolyn Kimmorley joined the Music Staff of The Australian Opera and has assisted in the preparation of a vast range of works with many distinguished singers and conductors. In 1985 she became Principal Répétiteur for The Australian Opera and in 1987 was appointed Head of Music Staff. From 1994 to 1999 she was the company’s Artistic Administrator\, following which she was Opera Australia’s Director of Music Administration until June 2003. Sharolyn Kimmorley is regarded as one of Australia’s finest vocal coaches and accompanists. She has recorded for ABC Classics\, taken part in chamber musicconcerts and accompanied some of the world’s most distinguished recitalists. In January 2009 Sharolyn became a member of the Order of Australia in recognition of her work as an accompanist and the nurturing and mentoring of emerging artists. Sharolyn is currently Artistic Manager and Artist Advisor to Melba Opera Trust and recently joined the board of Victorian Opera. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Program \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Chacun le saitfrom The Daughter of the Regiment by Gaetano DonizettiSophie Hamer \n \n Avant de quitter ces lieuxfrom Faust by Charles GounodAidan Hodder \n \n Faites-lui mes aveuxfrom Faust by Charles GounodChloe James \n \n Bei Männern\, welche Liebe fühlenfrom The Magic Flute by Wolfgang Amadeus MozartSophie Hamer and Aidan Hodder \n \n Depuis hier … Que fais-tu\, blanche tourterellefrom Romeo and Juliet by Charles GounodChloe James \n \n O vin dissipe la tristessefrom Hamlet by Ambroise ThomasAidan Hodder \n \n Lo! Here the gentle larkfrom The Comedy of Errors by Sir Henry BishopSophie Hamer \n \n Dôme épaisfrom Lakmé by Léo DelibesSophie Hamer and Chloe James \n \n Down in the forestfrom A Cycle of Life by Landon RonaldChloe James \n \n Chanson indouefrom Sadko by Nicolai Rimsky-KorsakovSophie Hamer \n \n Mattinataby Sir Paolo TostiAidan Hodder \n \n Goodbyeby Sir Paolo TostiSophie Hamer\, Chloe James and Aidan Hodder \n \n Associate Artist Sharolyn Kimmorley AM Melba Artists appear as part of the Ryman Healthcare Performance Program   \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Melba Opera Trust Melba Opera Trust\, a legacy of the visionary soprano Dame Nellie Melba\, delivers Australia’s leading development program for exceptional young opera singers and repetiteurs.  Nellie once said ‘in order to succeed in opera\, you have to engage in the business of singing. A beautiful voice is not enough.’ This is at the heart of our philosophy: our artists are trained to be more than a voice\, to be equipped with the skills they need to build sustainable careers.  The Melba Program\, a year-long scholarship funded program\, supports artists from around Australia through a bespoke course of artistic development\, mentoring in business\, professional and personal skill development\, and performance experience.  Following in Nellie’s footsteps\, many of Melba’s talented alumni are realising their dreams and performing in opera houses around the world.  Join us to hear these future stars! \n \n Includes A sumptuous Devonshire tea (scones are made to a tradional Victorian recipe – Amelia Cotterel) served on vintage Johnston Brothers china\, in the Minerva Space. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tickets $39.96 per person includes gst & booking fee. Tickets can also be purchased in the Library \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 This event supports the Australian Heritage Festival & The Ballarat Heritage Festivals URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/russian-piano-trios/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Classical Music,Live Music,Victorian Seniors Festival ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/sq-promo-brian-champman.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251008T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251008T200000 DTSTAMP:20260413T080426 CREATED:20250813T044851Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250813T045058Z UID:66952-1759950000-1759953600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Kadampa Meditation Series | Three Methods for Overcoming Bad Habits DESCRIPTION:Dame Nellie Melba Celebration Performance \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 18\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n2:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n4:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$39.96 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Venue \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 An afternoon of song\, arias and duets…The BMI in partnership with Melba Opera Trust. Meet the 2025 Melba artists\, as they perform a repertoire that celebrates the Birthday of Dame Nellie Melba – program coming soon… \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Artists \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n SOPHIE HAMERBritish-Australian Sophie Hamer holds a Bachelor of Music (Classical Vocal Performance) from the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts. Her roles include Ino (Australian Premiere of Eccles’ Semele)\, Angelina (Trial by Jury)\, Mabel(The Pirates of Penzance)\, and The Dew Fairy (Hansel and Gretel). Sophie has appeared as the soprano soloist in the Australian premiere of Goodall’s Invictus: A Passion\, Messiah\,  Jauchzet Gott in allen Landen and in Enchanted Encounters – Songs of the Supernatural with West Australian Opera. She is the current recipient of The Amelia Joscelyne Memorial Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n AIDAN HODDERAidan Hodder holds a Master of Music Studies from Queensland Conservatorium\, Griffith University. Aidan made his professional debut in 2023 in State Opera South Australia’s G & S FEST\, singing John Wellington Wells (The Sorcerer). Recently Aidan performed as Samuel (The Pirates of Penzance) at Queensland Performing Arts Centre presented by Prospero Arts and directed Stuart Maunder AM. Aidan is an advocate for children’s education and currently works for the Brisbane-based educational entertainment company Dino Encounters. He is the current recipient of the John Wegner AO Opera Scholarship and the Max & Jill Schultz Opera Society Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n CHLOE JAMES Chloe James holds a Bachelor of Music (Classical Voice) and a Master of Music (Opera Performance) from the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music\, and she is an alumna of Opera Scholars Australia. Chloe’s performing credits include Hansel and Gretel\, The Magic Flute\, and The Old Maid and the Thief (Melbourne Conservatorium)\, as well as English Eccentrics\, Parrwang Lifts the Sky\, The Grumpiest Boy in the World and Il Mago di Oz (Victorian Opera). She is the current recipient of the Ruskin Opera Scholarship and the Jo Horgan & Peter Wetenhall Opera Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n SHAROLYN KIMMORLEY AM After studying at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music\, Sharolyn Kimmorley joined the Music Staff of The Australian Opera and has assisted in the preparation of a vast range of works with many distinguished singers and conductors. In 1985 she became Principal Répétiteur for The Australian Opera and in 1987 was appointed Head of Music Staff. From 1994 to 1999 she was the company’s Artistic Administrator\, following which she was Opera Australia’s Director of Music Administration until June 2003. Sharolyn Kimmorley is regarded as one of Australia’s finest vocal coaches and accompanists. She has recorded for ABC Classics\, taken part in chamber musicconcerts and accompanied some of the world’s most distinguished recitalists. In January 2009 Sharolyn became a member of the Order of Australia in recognition of her work as an accompanist and the nurturing and mentoring of emerging artists. Sharolyn is currently Artistic Manager and Artist Advisor to Melba Opera Trust and recently joined the board of Victorian Opera. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Program \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Chacun le saitfrom The Daughter of the Regiment by Gaetano DonizettiSophie Hamer \n \n Avant de quitter ces lieuxfrom Faust by Charles GounodAidan Hodder \n \n Faites-lui mes aveuxfrom Faust by Charles GounodChloe James \n \n Bei Männern\, welche Liebe fühlenfrom The Magic Flute by Wolfgang Amadeus MozartSophie Hamer and Aidan Hodder \n \n Depuis hier … Que fais-tu\, blanche tourterellefrom Romeo and Juliet by Charles GounodChloe James \n \n O vin dissipe la tristessefrom Hamlet by Ambroise ThomasAidan Hodder \n \n Lo! Here the gentle larkfrom The Comedy of Errors by Sir Henry BishopSophie Hamer \n \n Dôme épaisfrom Lakmé by Léo DelibesSophie Hamer and Chloe James \n \n Down in the forestfrom A Cycle of Life by Landon RonaldChloe James \n \n Chanson indouefrom Sadko by Nicolai Rimsky-KorsakovSophie Hamer \n \n Mattinataby Sir Paolo TostiAidan Hodder \n \n Goodbyeby Sir Paolo TostiSophie Hamer\, Chloe James and Aidan Hodder \n \n Associate Artist Sharolyn Kimmorley AM Melba Artists appear as part of the Ryman Healthcare Performance Program   \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Melba Opera Trust Melba Opera Trust\, a legacy of the visionary soprano Dame Nellie Melba\, delivers Australia’s leading development program for exceptional young opera singers and repetiteurs.  Nellie once said ‘in order to succeed in opera\, you have to engage in the business of singing. A beautiful voice is not enough.’ This is at the heart of our philosophy: our artists are trained to be more than a voice\, to be equipped with the skills they need to build sustainable careers.  The Melba Program\, a year-long scholarship funded program\, supports artists from around Australia through a bespoke course of artistic development\, mentoring in business\, professional and personal skill development\, and performance experience.  Following in Nellie’s footsteps\, many of Melba’s talented alumni are realising their dreams and performing in opera houses around the world.  Join us to hear these future stars! \n \n Includes A sumptuous Devonshire tea (scones are made to a tradional Victorian recipe – Amelia Cotterel) served on vintage Johnston Brothers china\, in the Minerva Space. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tickets $39.96 per person includes gst & booking fee. Tickets can also be purchased in the Library \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 This event supports the Australian Heritage Festival & The Ballarat Heritage Festivals URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/kadampa-meditation-series-8-october-25/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:kadampa ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/square-promo-bad-habits-v2.webp ORGANIZER;CN="Kadampa Meditation":MAILTO:info@kadampa.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251009T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251009T210000 DTSTAMP:20260413T080426 CREATED:20250212T040547Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250321T110559Z UID:62016-1760038200-1760043600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Ballarat Film Society | To Thank the Room DESCRIPTION:Dame Nellie Melba Celebration Performance \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 18\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n2:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n4:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$39.96 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Venue \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 An afternoon of song\, arias and duets…The BMI in partnership with Melba Opera Trust. Meet the 2025 Melba artists\, as they perform a repertoire that celebrates the Birthday of Dame Nellie Melba – program coming soon… \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Artists \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n SOPHIE HAMERBritish-Australian Sophie Hamer holds a Bachelor of Music (Classical Vocal Performance) from the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts. Her roles include Ino (Australian Premiere of Eccles’ Semele)\, Angelina (Trial by Jury)\, Mabel(The Pirates of Penzance)\, and The Dew Fairy (Hansel and Gretel). Sophie has appeared as the soprano soloist in the Australian premiere of Goodall’s Invictus: A Passion\, Messiah\,  Jauchzet Gott in allen Landen and in Enchanted Encounters – Songs of the Supernatural with West Australian Opera. She is the current recipient of The Amelia Joscelyne Memorial Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n AIDAN HODDERAidan Hodder holds a Master of Music Studies from Queensland Conservatorium\, Griffith University. Aidan made his professional debut in 2023 in State Opera South Australia’s G & S FEST\, singing John Wellington Wells (The Sorcerer). Recently Aidan performed as Samuel (The Pirates of Penzance) at Queensland Performing Arts Centre presented by Prospero Arts and directed Stuart Maunder AM. Aidan is an advocate for children’s education and currently works for the Brisbane-based educational entertainment company Dino Encounters. He is the current recipient of the John Wegner AO Opera Scholarship and the Max & Jill Schultz Opera Society Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n CHLOE JAMES Chloe James holds a Bachelor of Music (Classical Voice) and a Master of Music (Opera Performance) from the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music\, and she is an alumna of Opera Scholars Australia. Chloe’s performing credits include Hansel and Gretel\, The Magic Flute\, and The Old Maid and the Thief (Melbourne Conservatorium)\, as well as English Eccentrics\, Parrwang Lifts the Sky\, The Grumpiest Boy in the World and Il Mago di Oz (Victorian Opera). She is the current recipient of the Ruskin Opera Scholarship and the Jo Horgan & Peter Wetenhall Opera Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n SHAROLYN KIMMORLEY AM After studying at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music\, Sharolyn Kimmorley joined the Music Staff of The Australian Opera and has assisted in the preparation of a vast range of works with many distinguished singers and conductors. In 1985 she became Principal Répétiteur for The Australian Opera and in 1987 was appointed Head of Music Staff. From 1994 to 1999 she was the company’s Artistic Administrator\, following which she was Opera Australia’s Director of Music Administration until June 2003. Sharolyn Kimmorley is regarded as one of Australia’s finest vocal coaches and accompanists. She has recorded for ABC Classics\, taken part in chamber musicconcerts and accompanied some of the world’s most distinguished recitalists. In January 2009 Sharolyn became a member of the Order of Australia in recognition of her work as an accompanist and the nurturing and mentoring of emerging artists. Sharolyn is currently Artistic Manager and Artist Advisor to Melba Opera Trust and recently joined the board of Victorian Opera. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Program \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Chacun le saitfrom The Daughter of the Regiment by Gaetano DonizettiSophie Hamer \n \n Avant de quitter ces lieuxfrom Faust by Charles GounodAidan Hodder \n \n Faites-lui mes aveuxfrom Faust by Charles GounodChloe James \n \n Bei Männern\, welche Liebe fühlenfrom The Magic Flute by Wolfgang Amadeus MozartSophie Hamer and Aidan Hodder \n \n Depuis hier … Que fais-tu\, blanche tourterellefrom Romeo and Juliet by Charles GounodChloe James \n \n O vin dissipe la tristessefrom Hamlet by Ambroise ThomasAidan Hodder \n \n Lo! Here the gentle larkfrom The Comedy of Errors by Sir Henry BishopSophie Hamer \n \n Dôme épaisfrom Lakmé by Léo DelibesSophie Hamer and Chloe James \n \n Down in the forestfrom A Cycle of Life by Landon RonaldChloe James \n \n Chanson indouefrom Sadko by Nicolai Rimsky-KorsakovSophie Hamer \n \n Mattinataby Sir Paolo TostiAidan Hodder \n \n Goodbyeby Sir Paolo TostiSophie Hamer\, Chloe James and Aidan Hodder \n \n Associate Artist Sharolyn Kimmorley AM Melba Artists appear as part of the Ryman Healthcare Performance Program   \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Melba Opera Trust Melba Opera Trust\, a legacy of the visionary soprano Dame Nellie Melba\, delivers Australia’s leading development program for exceptional young opera singers and repetiteurs.  Nellie once said ‘in order to succeed in opera\, you have to engage in the business of singing. A beautiful voice is not enough.’ This is at the heart of our philosophy: our artists are trained to be more than a voice\, to be equipped with the skills they need to build sustainable careers.  The Melba Program\, a year-long scholarship funded program\, supports artists from around Australia through a bespoke course of artistic development\, mentoring in business\, professional and personal skill development\, and performance experience.  Following in Nellie’s footsteps\, many of Melba’s talented alumni are realising their dreams and performing in opera houses around the world.  Join us to hear these future stars! \n \n Includes A sumptuous Devonshire tea (scones are made to a tradional Victorian recipe – Amelia Cotterel) served on vintage Johnston Brothers china\, in the Minerva Space. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tickets $39.96 per person includes gst & booking fee. Tickets can also be purchased in the Library \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 This event supports the Australian Heritage Festival & The Ballarat Heritage Festivals URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/bfs-to-thank-the-room-oct/ 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-bfs-update2.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251015T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251015T200000 DTSTAMP:20260413T080426 CREATED:20250813T045048Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250813T045830Z UID:66955-1760554800-1760558400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Kadampa Meditation Series | Three Methods for Overcoming Bad Habits DESCRIPTION:Dame Nellie Melba Celebration Performance \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 18\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n2:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n4:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$39.96 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Venue \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 An afternoon of song\, arias and duets…The BMI in partnership with Melba Opera Trust. Meet the 2025 Melba artists\, as they perform a repertoire that celebrates the Birthday of Dame Nellie Melba – program coming soon… \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Artists \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n SOPHIE HAMERBritish-Australian Sophie Hamer holds a Bachelor of Music (Classical Vocal Performance) from the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts. Her roles include Ino (Australian Premiere of Eccles’ Semele)\, Angelina (Trial by Jury)\, Mabel(The Pirates of Penzance)\, and The Dew Fairy (Hansel and Gretel). Sophie has appeared as the soprano soloist in the Australian premiere of Goodall’s Invictus: A Passion\, Messiah\,  Jauchzet Gott in allen Landen and in Enchanted Encounters – Songs of the Supernatural with West Australian Opera. She is the current recipient of The Amelia Joscelyne Memorial Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n AIDAN HODDERAidan Hodder holds a Master of Music Studies from Queensland Conservatorium\, Griffith University. Aidan made his professional debut in 2023 in State Opera South Australia’s G & S FEST\, singing John Wellington Wells (The Sorcerer). Recently Aidan performed as Samuel (The Pirates of Penzance) at Queensland Performing Arts Centre presented by Prospero Arts and directed Stuart Maunder AM. Aidan is an advocate for children’s education and currently works for the Brisbane-based educational entertainment company Dino Encounters. He is the current recipient of the John Wegner AO Opera Scholarship and the Max & Jill Schultz Opera Society Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n CHLOE JAMES Chloe James holds a Bachelor of Music (Classical Voice) and a Master of Music (Opera Performance) from the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music\, and she is an alumna of Opera Scholars Australia. Chloe’s performing credits include Hansel and Gretel\, The Magic Flute\, and The Old Maid and the Thief (Melbourne Conservatorium)\, as well as English Eccentrics\, Parrwang Lifts the Sky\, The Grumpiest Boy in the World and Il Mago di Oz (Victorian Opera). She is the current recipient of the Ruskin Opera Scholarship and the Jo Horgan & Peter Wetenhall Opera Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n SHAROLYN KIMMORLEY AM After studying at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music\, Sharolyn Kimmorley joined the Music Staff of The Australian Opera and has assisted in the preparation of a vast range of works with many distinguished singers and conductors. In 1985 she became Principal Répétiteur for The Australian Opera and in 1987 was appointed Head of Music Staff. From 1994 to 1999 she was the company’s Artistic Administrator\, following which she was Opera Australia’s Director of Music Administration until June 2003. Sharolyn Kimmorley is regarded as one of Australia’s finest vocal coaches and accompanists. She has recorded for ABC Classics\, taken part in chamber musicconcerts and accompanied some of the world’s most distinguished recitalists. In January 2009 Sharolyn became a member of the Order of Australia in recognition of her work as an accompanist and the nurturing and mentoring of emerging artists. Sharolyn is currently Artistic Manager and Artist Advisor to Melba Opera Trust and recently joined the board of Victorian Opera. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Program \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Chacun le saitfrom The Daughter of the Regiment by Gaetano DonizettiSophie Hamer \n \n Avant de quitter ces lieuxfrom Faust by Charles GounodAidan Hodder \n \n Faites-lui mes aveuxfrom Faust by Charles GounodChloe James \n \n Bei Männern\, welche Liebe fühlenfrom The Magic Flute by Wolfgang Amadeus MozartSophie Hamer and Aidan Hodder \n \n Depuis hier … Que fais-tu\, blanche tourterellefrom Romeo and Juliet by Charles GounodChloe James \n \n O vin dissipe la tristessefrom Hamlet by Ambroise ThomasAidan Hodder \n \n Lo! Here the gentle larkfrom The Comedy of Errors by Sir Henry BishopSophie Hamer \n \n Dôme épaisfrom Lakmé by Léo DelibesSophie Hamer and Chloe James \n \n Down in the forestfrom A Cycle of Life by Landon RonaldChloe James \n \n Chanson indouefrom Sadko by Nicolai Rimsky-KorsakovSophie Hamer \n \n Mattinataby Sir Paolo TostiAidan Hodder \n \n Goodbyeby Sir Paolo TostiSophie Hamer\, Chloe James and Aidan Hodder \n \n Associate Artist Sharolyn Kimmorley AM Melba Artists appear as part of the Ryman Healthcare Performance Program   \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Melba Opera Trust Melba Opera Trust\, a legacy of the visionary soprano Dame Nellie Melba\, delivers Australia’s leading development program for exceptional young opera singers and repetiteurs.  Nellie once said ‘in order to succeed in opera\, you have to engage in the business of singing. A beautiful voice is not enough.’ This is at the heart of our philosophy: our artists are trained to be more than a voice\, to be equipped with the skills they need to build sustainable careers.  The Melba Program\, a year-long scholarship funded program\, supports artists from around Australia through a bespoke course of artistic development\, mentoring in business\, professional and personal skill development\, and performance experience.  Following in Nellie’s footsteps\, many of Melba’s talented alumni are realising their dreams and performing in opera houses around the world.  Join us to hear these future stars! \n \n Includes A sumptuous Devonshire tea (scones are made to a tradional Victorian recipe – Amelia Cotterel) served on vintage Johnston Brothers china\, in the Minerva Space. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tickets $39.96 per person includes gst & booking fee. Tickets can also be purchased in the Library \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 This event supports the Australian Heritage Festival & The Ballarat Heritage Festivals URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/kadampa-meditation-series-15-october-25/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:kadampa ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/square-promo-bad-habits-v2.webp ORGANIZER;CN="Kadampa Meditation":MAILTO:info@kadampa.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251016T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251016T213000 DTSTAMP:20260413T080426 CREATED:20250709T002656Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251014T023644Z UID:66088-1760643000-1760650200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:'God of Carnage'\, A Ballarat National Theatre Production | This season NOW CANCELLED | BNT apologises. DESCRIPTION:Dame Nellie Melba Celebration Performance \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 18\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n2:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n4:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$39.96 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Venue \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 An afternoon of song\, arias and duets…The BMI in partnership with Melba Opera Trust. Meet the 2025 Melba artists\, as they perform a repertoire that celebrates the Birthday of Dame Nellie Melba – program coming soon… \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Artists \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n SOPHIE HAMERBritish-Australian Sophie Hamer holds a Bachelor of Music (Classical Vocal Performance) from the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts. Her roles include Ino (Australian Premiere of Eccles’ Semele)\, Angelina (Trial by Jury)\, Mabel(The Pirates of Penzance)\, and The Dew Fairy (Hansel and Gretel). Sophie has appeared as the soprano soloist in the Australian premiere of Goodall’s Invictus: A Passion\, Messiah\,  Jauchzet Gott in allen Landen and in Enchanted Encounters – Songs of the Supernatural with West Australian Opera. She is the current recipient of The Amelia Joscelyne Memorial Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n AIDAN HODDERAidan Hodder holds a Master of Music Studies from Queensland Conservatorium\, Griffith University. Aidan made his professional debut in 2023 in State Opera South Australia’s G & S FEST\, singing John Wellington Wells (The Sorcerer). Recently Aidan performed as Samuel (The Pirates of Penzance) at Queensland Performing Arts Centre presented by Prospero Arts and directed Stuart Maunder AM. Aidan is an advocate for children’s education and currently works for the Brisbane-based educational entertainment company Dino Encounters. He is the current recipient of the John Wegner AO Opera Scholarship and the Max & Jill Schultz Opera Society Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n CHLOE JAMES Chloe James holds a Bachelor of Music (Classical Voice) and a Master of Music (Opera Performance) from the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music\, and she is an alumna of Opera Scholars Australia. Chloe’s performing credits include Hansel and Gretel\, The Magic Flute\, and The Old Maid and the Thief (Melbourne Conservatorium)\, as well as English Eccentrics\, Parrwang Lifts the Sky\, The Grumpiest Boy in the World and Il Mago di Oz (Victorian Opera). She is the current recipient of the Ruskin Opera Scholarship and the Jo Horgan & Peter Wetenhall Opera Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n SHAROLYN KIMMORLEY AM After studying at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music\, Sharolyn Kimmorley joined the Music Staff of The Australian Opera and has assisted in the preparation of a vast range of works with many distinguished singers and conductors. In 1985 she became Principal Répétiteur for The Australian Opera and in 1987 was appointed Head of Music Staff. From 1994 to 1999 she was the company’s Artistic Administrator\, following which she was Opera Australia’s Director of Music Administration until June 2003. Sharolyn Kimmorley is regarded as one of Australia’s finest vocal coaches and accompanists. She has recorded for ABC Classics\, taken part in chamber musicconcerts and accompanied some of the world’s most distinguished recitalists. In January 2009 Sharolyn became a member of the Order of Australia in recognition of her work as an accompanist and the nurturing and mentoring of emerging artists. Sharolyn is currently Artistic Manager and Artist Advisor to Melba Opera Trust and recently joined the board of Victorian Opera. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Program \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Chacun le saitfrom The Daughter of the Regiment by Gaetano DonizettiSophie Hamer \n \n Avant de quitter ces lieuxfrom Faust by Charles GounodAidan Hodder \n \n Faites-lui mes aveuxfrom Faust by Charles GounodChloe James \n \n Bei Männern\, welche Liebe fühlenfrom The Magic Flute by Wolfgang Amadeus MozartSophie Hamer and Aidan Hodder \n \n Depuis hier … Que fais-tu\, blanche tourterellefrom Romeo and Juliet by Charles GounodChloe James \n \n O vin dissipe la tristessefrom Hamlet by Ambroise ThomasAidan Hodder \n \n Lo! Here the gentle larkfrom The Comedy of Errors by Sir Henry BishopSophie Hamer \n \n Dôme épaisfrom Lakmé by Léo DelibesSophie Hamer and Chloe James \n \n Down in the forestfrom A Cycle of Life by Landon RonaldChloe James \n \n Chanson indouefrom Sadko by Nicolai Rimsky-KorsakovSophie Hamer \n \n Mattinataby Sir Paolo TostiAidan Hodder \n \n Goodbyeby Sir Paolo TostiSophie Hamer\, Chloe James and Aidan Hodder \n \n Associate Artist Sharolyn Kimmorley AM Melba Artists appear as part of the Ryman Healthcare Performance Program   \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Melba Opera Trust Melba Opera Trust\, a legacy of the visionary soprano Dame Nellie Melba\, delivers Australia’s leading development program for exceptional young opera singers and repetiteurs.  Nellie once said ‘in order to succeed in opera\, you have to engage in the business of singing. A beautiful voice is not enough.’ This is at the heart of our philosophy: our artists are trained to be more than a voice\, to be equipped with the skills they need to build sustainable careers.  The Melba Program\, a year-long scholarship funded program\, supports artists from around Australia through a bespoke course of artistic development\, mentoring in business\, professional and personal skill development\, and performance experience.  Following in Nellie’s footsteps\, many of Melba’s talented alumni are realising their dreams and performing in opera houses around the world.  Join us to hear these future stars! \n \n Includes A sumptuous Devonshire tea (scones are made to a tradional Victorian recipe – Amelia Cotterel) served on vintage Johnston Brothers china\, in the Minerva Space. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tickets $39.96 per person includes gst & booking fee. Tickets can also be purchased in the Library \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 This event supports the Australian Heritage Festival & The Ballarat Heritage Festivals URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/god-of-carnage/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Ballarat National Theatre,Theatre Production,Victorian Seniors Festival ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/God-of-Carnage-BMI-Square.webp ORGANIZER;CN="Ballarat National Theatre":MAILTO:contact@bnt.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251019T140000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251019T160000 DTSTAMP:20260413T080426 CREATED:20250710T035225Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251014T023809Z UID:66112-1760882400-1760889600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:'God of Carnage'\, A Ballarat National Theatre Production | This season NOW CANCELLED | BNT apologises. DESCRIPTION:Dame Nellie Melba Celebration Performance \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 18\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n2:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n4:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$39.96 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Venue \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 An afternoon of song\, arias and duets…The BMI in partnership with Melba Opera Trust. Meet the 2025 Melba artists\, as they perform a repertoire that celebrates the Birthday of Dame Nellie Melba – program coming soon… \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Artists \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n SOPHIE HAMERBritish-Australian Sophie Hamer holds a Bachelor of Music (Classical Vocal Performance) from the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts. Her roles include Ino (Australian Premiere of Eccles’ Semele)\, Angelina (Trial by Jury)\, Mabel(The Pirates of Penzance)\, and The Dew Fairy (Hansel and Gretel). Sophie has appeared as the soprano soloist in the Australian premiere of Goodall’s Invictus: A Passion\, Messiah\,  Jauchzet Gott in allen Landen and in Enchanted Encounters – Songs of the Supernatural with West Australian Opera. She is the current recipient of The Amelia Joscelyne Memorial Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n AIDAN HODDERAidan Hodder holds a Master of Music Studies from Queensland Conservatorium\, Griffith University. Aidan made his professional debut in 2023 in State Opera South Australia’s G & S FEST\, singing John Wellington Wells (The Sorcerer). Recently Aidan performed as Samuel (The Pirates of Penzance) at Queensland Performing Arts Centre presented by Prospero Arts and directed Stuart Maunder AM. Aidan is an advocate for children’s education and currently works for the Brisbane-based educational entertainment company Dino Encounters. He is the current recipient of the John Wegner AO Opera Scholarship and the Max & Jill Schultz Opera Society Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n CHLOE JAMES Chloe James holds a Bachelor of Music (Classical Voice) and a Master of Music (Opera Performance) from the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music\, and she is an alumna of Opera Scholars Australia. Chloe’s performing credits include Hansel and Gretel\, The Magic Flute\, and The Old Maid and the Thief (Melbourne Conservatorium)\, as well as English Eccentrics\, Parrwang Lifts the Sky\, The Grumpiest Boy in the World and Il Mago di Oz (Victorian Opera). She is the current recipient of the Ruskin Opera Scholarship and the Jo Horgan & Peter Wetenhall Opera Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n SHAROLYN KIMMORLEY AM After studying at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music\, Sharolyn Kimmorley joined the Music Staff of The Australian Opera and has assisted in the preparation of a vast range of works with many distinguished singers and conductors. In 1985 she became Principal Répétiteur for The Australian Opera and in 1987 was appointed Head of Music Staff. From 1994 to 1999 she was the company’s Artistic Administrator\, following which she was Opera Australia’s Director of Music Administration until June 2003. Sharolyn Kimmorley is regarded as one of Australia’s finest vocal coaches and accompanists. She has recorded for ABC Classics\, taken part in chamber musicconcerts and accompanied some of the world’s most distinguished recitalists. In January 2009 Sharolyn became a member of the Order of Australia in recognition of her work as an accompanist and the nurturing and mentoring of emerging artists. Sharolyn is currently Artistic Manager and Artist Advisor to Melba Opera Trust and recently joined the board of Victorian Opera. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Program \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Chacun le saitfrom The Daughter of the Regiment by Gaetano DonizettiSophie Hamer \n \n Avant de quitter ces lieuxfrom Faust by Charles GounodAidan Hodder \n \n Faites-lui mes aveuxfrom Faust by Charles GounodChloe James \n \n Bei Männern\, welche Liebe fühlenfrom The Magic Flute by Wolfgang Amadeus MozartSophie Hamer and Aidan Hodder \n \n Depuis hier … Que fais-tu\, blanche tourterellefrom Romeo and Juliet by Charles GounodChloe James \n \n O vin dissipe la tristessefrom Hamlet by Ambroise ThomasAidan Hodder \n \n Lo! Here the gentle larkfrom The Comedy of Errors by Sir Henry BishopSophie Hamer \n \n Dôme épaisfrom Lakmé by Léo DelibesSophie Hamer and Chloe James \n \n Down in the forestfrom A Cycle of Life by Landon RonaldChloe James \n \n Chanson indouefrom Sadko by Nicolai Rimsky-KorsakovSophie Hamer \n \n Mattinataby Sir Paolo TostiAidan Hodder \n \n Goodbyeby Sir Paolo TostiSophie Hamer\, Chloe James and Aidan Hodder \n \n Associate Artist Sharolyn Kimmorley AM Melba Artists appear as part of the Ryman Healthcare Performance Program   \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Melba Opera Trust Melba Opera Trust\, a legacy of the visionary soprano Dame Nellie Melba\, delivers Australia’s leading development program for exceptional young opera singers and repetiteurs.  Nellie once said ‘in order to succeed in opera\, you have to engage in the business of singing. A beautiful voice is not enough.’ This is at the heart of our philosophy: our artists are trained to be more than a voice\, to be equipped with the skills they need to build sustainable careers.  The Melba Program\, a year-long scholarship funded program\, supports artists from around Australia through a bespoke course of artistic development\, mentoring in business\, professional and personal skill development\, and performance experience.  Following in Nellie’s footsteps\, many of Melba’s talented alumni are realising their dreams and performing in opera houses around the world.  Join us to hear these future stars! \n \n Includes A sumptuous Devonshire tea (scones are made to a tradional Victorian recipe – Amelia Cotterel) served on vintage Johnston Brothers china\, in the Minerva Space. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tickets $39.96 per person includes gst & booking fee. Tickets can also be purchased in the Library \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 This event supports the Australian Heritage Festival & The Ballarat Heritage Festivals URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/god-of-carnage-5/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Ballarat National Theatre,Theatre Production,Victorian Seniors Festival ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/God-of-Carnage-BMI-Square.webp ORGANIZER;CN="Ballarat National Theatre":MAILTO:contact@bnt.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251021T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251021T193000 DTSTAMP:20260413T080426 CREATED:20250919T003912Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251020T045545Z UID:67443-1761069600-1761075000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with J Mary Masters *This event has now been CANCELLED* DESCRIPTION:Dame Nellie Melba Celebration Performance \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 18\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n2:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n4:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$39.96 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Venue \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 An afternoon of song\, arias and duets…The BMI in partnership with Melba Opera Trust. Meet the 2025 Melba artists\, as they perform a repertoire that celebrates the Birthday of Dame Nellie Melba – program coming soon… \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Artists \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n SOPHIE HAMERBritish-Australian Sophie Hamer holds a Bachelor of Music (Classical Vocal Performance) from the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts. Her roles include Ino (Australian Premiere of Eccles’ Semele)\, Angelina (Trial by Jury)\, Mabel(The Pirates of Penzance)\, and The Dew Fairy (Hansel and Gretel). Sophie has appeared as the soprano soloist in the Australian premiere of Goodall’s Invictus: A Passion\, Messiah\,  Jauchzet Gott in allen Landen and in Enchanted Encounters – Songs of the Supernatural with West Australian Opera. She is the current recipient of The Amelia Joscelyne Memorial Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n AIDAN HODDERAidan Hodder holds a Master of Music Studies from Queensland Conservatorium\, Griffith University. Aidan made his professional debut in 2023 in State Opera South Australia’s G & S FEST\, singing John Wellington Wells (The Sorcerer). Recently Aidan performed as Samuel (The Pirates of Penzance) at Queensland Performing Arts Centre presented by Prospero Arts and directed Stuart Maunder AM. Aidan is an advocate for children’s education and currently works for the Brisbane-based educational entertainment company Dino Encounters. He is the current recipient of the John Wegner AO Opera Scholarship and the Max & Jill Schultz Opera Society Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n CHLOE JAMES Chloe James holds a Bachelor of Music (Classical Voice) and a Master of Music (Opera Performance) from the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music\, and she is an alumna of Opera Scholars Australia. Chloe’s performing credits include Hansel and Gretel\, The Magic Flute\, and The Old Maid and the Thief (Melbourne Conservatorium)\, as well as English Eccentrics\, Parrwang Lifts the Sky\, The Grumpiest Boy in the World and Il Mago di Oz (Victorian Opera). She is the current recipient of the Ruskin Opera Scholarship and the Jo Horgan & Peter Wetenhall Opera Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n SHAROLYN KIMMORLEY AM After studying at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music\, Sharolyn Kimmorley joined the Music Staff of The Australian Opera and has assisted in the preparation of a vast range of works with many distinguished singers and conductors. In 1985 she became Principal Répétiteur for The Australian Opera and in 1987 was appointed Head of Music Staff. From 1994 to 1999 she was the company’s Artistic Administrator\, following which she was Opera Australia’s Director of Music Administration until June 2003. Sharolyn Kimmorley is regarded as one of Australia’s finest vocal coaches and accompanists. She has recorded for ABC Classics\, taken part in chamber musicconcerts and accompanied some of the world’s most distinguished recitalists. In January 2009 Sharolyn became a member of the Order of Australia in recognition of her work as an accompanist and the nurturing and mentoring of emerging artists. Sharolyn is currently Artistic Manager and Artist Advisor to Melba Opera Trust and recently joined the board of Victorian Opera. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Program \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Chacun le saitfrom The Daughter of the Regiment by Gaetano DonizettiSophie Hamer \n \n Avant de quitter ces lieuxfrom Faust by Charles GounodAidan Hodder \n \n Faites-lui mes aveuxfrom Faust by Charles GounodChloe James \n \n Bei Männern\, welche Liebe fühlenfrom The Magic Flute by Wolfgang Amadeus MozartSophie Hamer and Aidan Hodder \n \n Depuis hier … Que fais-tu\, blanche tourterellefrom Romeo and Juliet by Charles GounodChloe James \n \n O vin dissipe la tristessefrom Hamlet by Ambroise ThomasAidan Hodder \n \n Lo! Here the gentle larkfrom The Comedy of Errors by Sir Henry BishopSophie Hamer \n \n Dôme épaisfrom Lakmé by Léo DelibesSophie Hamer and Chloe James \n \n Down in the forestfrom A Cycle of Life by Landon RonaldChloe James \n \n Chanson indouefrom Sadko by Nicolai Rimsky-KorsakovSophie Hamer \n \n Mattinataby Sir Paolo TostiAidan Hodder \n \n Goodbyeby Sir Paolo TostiSophie Hamer\, Chloe James and Aidan Hodder \n \n Associate Artist Sharolyn Kimmorley AM Melba Artists appear as part of the Ryman Healthcare Performance Program   \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Melba Opera Trust Melba Opera Trust\, a legacy of the visionary soprano Dame Nellie Melba\, delivers Australia’s leading development program for exceptional young opera singers and repetiteurs.  Nellie once said ‘in order to succeed in opera\, you have to engage in the business of singing. A beautiful voice is not enough.’ This is at the heart of our philosophy: our artists are trained to be more than a voice\, to be equipped with the skills they need to build sustainable careers.  The Melba Program\, a year-long scholarship funded program\, supports artists from around Australia through a bespoke course of artistic development\, mentoring in business\, professional and personal skill development\, and performance experience.  Following in Nellie’s footsteps\, many of Melba’s talented alumni are realising their dreams and performing in opera houses around the world.  Join us to hear these future stars! \n \n Includes A sumptuous Devonshire tea (scones are made to a tradional Victorian recipe – Amelia Cotterel) served on vintage Johnston Brothers china\, in the Minerva Space. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tickets $39.96 per person includes gst & booking fee. Tickets can also be purchased in the Library \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 This event supports the Australian Heritage Festival & The Ballarat Heritage Festivals URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/j-mary-masters/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Fundraiser,Library,Victorian Seniors Festival ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/sq-promo-judith-final.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251022T100000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251022T140000 DTSTAMP:20260413T080426 CREATED:20250930T012758Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251021T061535Z UID:67775-1761127200-1761141600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Ballarat Seniors Expo | BMI component now CANCELLED DESCRIPTION:Dame Nellie Melba Celebration Performance \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 18\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n2:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n4:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$39.96 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Venue \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 An afternoon of song\, arias and duets…The BMI in partnership with Melba Opera Trust. Meet the 2025 Melba artists\, as they perform a repertoire that celebrates the Birthday of Dame Nellie Melba – program coming soon… \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Artists \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n SOPHIE HAMERBritish-Australian Sophie Hamer holds a Bachelor of Music (Classical Vocal Performance) from the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts. Her roles include Ino (Australian Premiere of Eccles’ Semele)\, Angelina (Trial by Jury)\, Mabel(The Pirates of Penzance)\, and The Dew Fairy (Hansel and Gretel). Sophie has appeared as the soprano soloist in the Australian premiere of Goodall’s Invictus: A Passion\, Messiah\,  Jauchzet Gott in allen Landen and in Enchanted Encounters – Songs of the Supernatural with West Australian Opera. She is the current recipient of The Amelia Joscelyne Memorial Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n AIDAN HODDERAidan Hodder holds a Master of Music Studies from Queensland Conservatorium\, Griffith University. Aidan made his professional debut in 2023 in State Opera South Australia’s G & S FEST\, singing John Wellington Wells (The Sorcerer). Recently Aidan performed as Samuel (The Pirates of Penzance) at Queensland Performing Arts Centre presented by Prospero Arts and directed Stuart Maunder AM. Aidan is an advocate for children’s education and currently works for the Brisbane-based educational entertainment company Dino Encounters. He is the current recipient of the John Wegner AO Opera Scholarship and the Max & Jill Schultz Opera Society Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n CHLOE JAMES Chloe James holds a Bachelor of Music (Classical Voice) and a Master of Music (Opera Performance) from the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music\, and she is an alumna of Opera Scholars Australia. Chloe’s performing credits include Hansel and Gretel\, The Magic Flute\, and The Old Maid and the Thief (Melbourne Conservatorium)\, as well as English Eccentrics\, Parrwang Lifts the Sky\, The Grumpiest Boy in the World and Il Mago di Oz (Victorian Opera). She is the current recipient of the Ruskin Opera Scholarship and the Jo Horgan & Peter Wetenhall Opera Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n SHAROLYN KIMMORLEY AM After studying at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music\, Sharolyn Kimmorley joined the Music Staff of The Australian Opera and has assisted in the preparation of a vast range of works with many distinguished singers and conductors. In 1985 she became Principal Répétiteur for The Australian Opera and in 1987 was appointed Head of Music Staff. From 1994 to 1999 she was the company’s Artistic Administrator\, following which she was Opera Australia’s Director of Music Administration until June 2003. Sharolyn Kimmorley is regarded as one of Australia’s finest vocal coaches and accompanists. She has recorded for ABC Classics\, taken part in chamber musicconcerts and accompanied some of the world’s most distinguished recitalists. In January 2009 Sharolyn became a member of the Order of Australia in recognition of her work as an accompanist and the nurturing and mentoring of emerging artists. Sharolyn is currently Artistic Manager and Artist Advisor to Melba Opera Trust and recently joined the board of Victorian Opera. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Program \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Chacun le saitfrom The Daughter of the Regiment by Gaetano DonizettiSophie Hamer \n \n Avant de quitter ces lieuxfrom Faust by Charles GounodAidan Hodder \n \n Faites-lui mes aveuxfrom Faust by Charles GounodChloe James \n \n Bei Männern\, welche Liebe fühlenfrom The Magic Flute by Wolfgang Amadeus MozartSophie Hamer and Aidan Hodder \n \n Depuis hier … Que fais-tu\, blanche tourterellefrom Romeo and Juliet by Charles GounodChloe James \n \n O vin dissipe la tristessefrom Hamlet by Ambroise ThomasAidan Hodder \n \n Lo! Here the gentle larkfrom The Comedy of Errors by Sir Henry BishopSophie Hamer \n \n Dôme épaisfrom Lakmé by Léo DelibesSophie Hamer and Chloe James \n \n Down in the forestfrom A Cycle of Life by Landon RonaldChloe James \n \n Chanson indouefrom Sadko by Nicolai Rimsky-KorsakovSophie Hamer \n \n Mattinataby Sir Paolo TostiAidan Hodder \n \n Goodbyeby Sir Paolo TostiSophie Hamer\, Chloe James and Aidan Hodder \n \n Associate Artist Sharolyn Kimmorley AM Melba Artists appear as part of the Ryman Healthcare Performance Program   \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Melba Opera Trust Melba Opera Trust\, a legacy of the visionary soprano Dame Nellie Melba\, delivers Australia’s leading development program for exceptional young opera singers and repetiteurs.  Nellie once said ‘in order to succeed in opera\, you have to engage in the business of singing. A beautiful voice is not enough.’ This is at the heart of our philosophy: our artists are trained to be more than a voice\, to be equipped with the skills they need to build sustainable careers.  The Melba Program\, a year-long scholarship funded program\, supports artists from around Australia through a bespoke course of artistic development\, mentoring in business\, professional and personal skill development\, and performance experience.  Following in Nellie’s footsteps\, many of Melba’s talented alumni are realising their dreams and performing in opera houses around the world.  Join us to hear these future stars! \n \n Includes A sumptuous Devonshire tea (scones are made to a tradional Victorian recipe – Amelia Cotterel) served on vintage Johnston Brothers china\, in the Minerva Space. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tickets $39.96 per person includes gst & booking fee. Tickets can also be purchased in the Library \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 This event supports the Australian Heritage Festival & The Ballarat Heritage Festivals URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/ballarat-seniors-festival-expo/ LOCATION:Ballarat Show Grounds\, Ballarat\, Australia CATEGORIES:Victorian Seniors Festival ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/seniors-2025-sq-promo.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251022T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251022T200000 DTSTAMP:20260413T080426 CREATED:20250813T045930Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250813T050518Z UID:66964-1761159600-1761163200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Kadampa Meditation Series | How to solve our human problems DESCRIPTION:Dame Nellie Melba Celebration Performance \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 18\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n2:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n4:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$39.96 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Venue \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 An afternoon of song\, arias and duets…The BMI in partnership with Melba Opera Trust. Meet the 2025 Melba artists\, as they perform a repertoire that celebrates the Birthday of Dame Nellie Melba – program coming soon… \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Artists \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n SOPHIE HAMERBritish-Australian Sophie Hamer holds a Bachelor of Music (Classical Vocal Performance) from the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts. Her roles include Ino (Australian Premiere of Eccles’ Semele)\, Angelina (Trial by Jury)\, Mabel(The Pirates of Penzance)\, and The Dew Fairy (Hansel and Gretel). Sophie has appeared as the soprano soloist in the Australian premiere of Goodall’s Invictus: A Passion\, Messiah\,  Jauchzet Gott in allen Landen and in Enchanted Encounters – Songs of the Supernatural with West Australian Opera. She is the current recipient of The Amelia Joscelyne Memorial Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n AIDAN HODDERAidan Hodder holds a Master of Music Studies from Queensland Conservatorium\, Griffith University. Aidan made his professional debut in 2023 in State Opera South Australia’s G & S FEST\, singing John Wellington Wells (The Sorcerer). Recently Aidan performed as Samuel (The Pirates of Penzance) at Queensland Performing Arts Centre presented by Prospero Arts and directed Stuart Maunder AM. Aidan is an advocate for children’s education and currently works for the Brisbane-based educational entertainment company Dino Encounters. He is the current recipient of the John Wegner AO Opera Scholarship and the Max & Jill Schultz Opera Society Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n CHLOE JAMES Chloe James holds a Bachelor of Music (Classical Voice) and a Master of Music (Opera Performance) from the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music\, and she is an alumna of Opera Scholars Australia. Chloe’s performing credits include Hansel and Gretel\, The Magic Flute\, and The Old Maid and the Thief (Melbourne Conservatorium)\, as well as English Eccentrics\, Parrwang Lifts the Sky\, The Grumpiest Boy in the World and Il Mago di Oz (Victorian Opera). She is the current recipient of the Ruskin Opera Scholarship and the Jo Horgan & Peter Wetenhall Opera Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n SHAROLYN KIMMORLEY AM After studying at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music\, Sharolyn Kimmorley joined the Music Staff of The Australian Opera and has assisted in the preparation of a vast range of works with many distinguished singers and conductors. In 1985 she became Principal Répétiteur for The Australian Opera and in 1987 was appointed Head of Music Staff. From 1994 to 1999 she was the company’s Artistic Administrator\, following which she was Opera Australia’s Director of Music Administration until June 2003. Sharolyn Kimmorley is regarded as one of Australia’s finest vocal coaches and accompanists. She has recorded for ABC Classics\, taken part in chamber musicconcerts and accompanied some of the world’s most distinguished recitalists. In January 2009 Sharolyn became a member of the Order of Australia in recognition of her work as an accompanist and the nurturing and mentoring of emerging artists. Sharolyn is currently Artistic Manager and Artist Advisor to Melba Opera Trust and recently joined the board of Victorian Opera. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Program \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Chacun le saitfrom The Daughter of the Regiment by Gaetano DonizettiSophie Hamer \n \n Avant de quitter ces lieuxfrom Faust by Charles GounodAidan Hodder \n \n Faites-lui mes aveuxfrom Faust by Charles GounodChloe James \n \n Bei Männern\, welche Liebe fühlenfrom The Magic Flute by Wolfgang Amadeus MozartSophie Hamer and Aidan Hodder \n \n Depuis hier … Que fais-tu\, blanche tourterellefrom Romeo and Juliet by Charles GounodChloe James \n \n O vin dissipe la tristessefrom Hamlet by Ambroise ThomasAidan Hodder \n \n Lo! Here the gentle larkfrom The Comedy of Errors by Sir Henry BishopSophie Hamer \n \n Dôme épaisfrom Lakmé by Léo DelibesSophie Hamer and Chloe James \n \n Down in the forestfrom A Cycle of Life by Landon RonaldChloe James \n \n Chanson indouefrom Sadko by Nicolai Rimsky-KorsakovSophie Hamer \n \n Mattinataby Sir Paolo TostiAidan Hodder \n \n Goodbyeby Sir Paolo TostiSophie Hamer\, Chloe James and Aidan Hodder \n \n Associate Artist Sharolyn Kimmorley AM Melba Artists appear as part of the Ryman Healthcare Performance Program   \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Melba Opera Trust Melba Opera Trust\, a legacy of the visionary soprano Dame Nellie Melba\, delivers Australia’s leading development program for exceptional young opera singers and repetiteurs.  Nellie once said ‘in order to succeed in opera\, you have to engage in the business of singing. A beautiful voice is not enough.’ This is at the heart of our philosophy: our artists are trained to be more than a voice\, to be equipped with the skills they need to build sustainable careers.  The Melba Program\, a year-long scholarship funded program\, supports artists from around Australia through a bespoke course of artistic development\, mentoring in business\, professional and personal skill development\, and performance experience.  Following in Nellie’s footsteps\, many of Melba’s talented alumni are realising their dreams and performing in opera houses around the world.  Join us to hear these future stars! \n \n Includes A sumptuous Devonshire tea (scones are made to a tradional Victorian recipe – Amelia Cotterel) served on vintage Johnston Brothers china\, in the Minerva Space. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tickets $39.96 per person includes gst & booking fee. Tickets can also be purchased in the Library \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 This event supports the Australian Heritage Festival & The Ballarat Heritage Festivals URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/kadampa-meditation-series-22-october-25/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:kadampa ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/square-promo-human-poblems.webp ORGANIZER;CN="Kadampa Meditation":MAILTO:info@kadampa.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251024T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251024T201500 DTSTAMP:20260413T080426 CREATED:20251001T035625Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251002T045612Z UID:67819-1761332400-1761336900@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Opera's Bad Girl: Anna Bishop\, the World's First Daringly Defiant Diva DESCRIPTION:Dame Nellie Melba Celebration Performance \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 18\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n2:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n4:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$39.96 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Venue \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 An afternoon of song\, arias and duets…The BMI in partnership with Melba Opera Trust. Meet the 2025 Melba artists\, as they perform a repertoire that celebrates the Birthday of Dame Nellie Melba – program coming soon… \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Artists \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n SOPHIE HAMERBritish-Australian Sophie Hamer holds a Bachelor of Music (Classical Vocal Performance) from the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts. Her roles include Ino (Australian Premiere of Eccles’ Semele)\, Angelina (Trial by Jury)\, Mabel(The Pirates of Penzance)\, and The Dew Fairy (Hansel and Gretel). Sophie has appeared as the soprano soloist in the Australian premiere of Goodall’s Invictus: A Passion\, Messiah\,  Jauchzet Gott in allen Landen and in Enchanted Encounters – Songs of the Supernatural with West Australian Opera. She is the current recipient of The Amelia Joscelyne Memorial Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n AIDAN HODDERAidan Hodder holds a Master of Music Studies from Queensland Conservatorium\, Griffith University. Aidan made his professional debut in 2023 in State Opera South Australia’s G & S FEST\, singing John Wellington Wells (The Sorcerer). Recently Aidan performed as Samuel (The Pirates of Penzance) at Queensland Performing Arts Centre presented by Prospero Arts and directed Stuart Maunder AM. Aidan is an advocate for children’s education and currently works for the Brisbane-based educational entertainment company Dino Encounters. He is the current recipient of the John Wegner AO Opera Scholarship and the Max & Jill Schultz Opera Society Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n CHLOE JAMES Chloe James holds a Bachelor of Music (Classical Voice) and a Master of Music (Opera Performance) from the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music\, and she is an alumna of Opera Scholars Australia. Chloe’s performing credits include Hansel and Gretel\, The Magic Flute\, and The Old Maid and the Thief (Melbourne Conservatorium)\, as well as English Eccentrics\, Parrwang Lifts the Sky\, The Grumpiest Boy in the World and Il Mago di Oz (Victorian Opera). She is the current recipient of the Ruskin Opera Scholarship and the Jo Horgan & Peter Wetenhall Opera Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n SHAROLYN KIMMORLEY AM After studying at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music\, Sharolyn Kimmorley joined the Music Staff of The Australian Opera and has assisted in the preparation of a vast range of works with many distinguished singers and conductors. In 1985 she became Principal Répétiteur for The Australian Opera and in 1987 was appointed Head of Music Staff. From 1994 to 1999 she was the company’s Artistic Administrator\, following which she was Opera Australia’s Director of Music Administration until June 2003. Sharolyn Kimmorley is regarded as one of Australia’s finest vocal coaches and accompanists. She has recorded for ABC Classics\, taken part in chamber musicconcerts and accompanied some of the world’s most distinguished recitalists. In January 2009 Sharolyn became a member of the Order of Australia in recognition of her work as an accompanist and the nurturing and mentoring of emerging artists. Sharolyn is currently Artistic Manager and Artist Advisor to Melba Opera Trust and recently joined the board of Victorian Opera. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Program \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Chacun le saitfrom The Daughter of the Regiment by Gaetano DonizettiSophie Hamer \n \n Avant de quitter ces lieuxfrom Faust by Charles GounodAidan Hodder \n \n Faites-lui mes aveuxfrom Faust by Charles GounodChloe James \n \n Bei Männern\, welche Liebe fühlenfrom The Magic Flute by Wolfgang Amadeus MozartSophie Hamer and Aidan Hodder \n \n Depuis hier … Que fais-tu\, blanche tourterellefrom Romeo and Juliet by Charles GounodChloe James \n \n O vin dissipe la tristessefrom Hamlet by Ambroise ThomasAidan Hodder \n \n Lo! Here the gentle larkfrom The Comedy of Errors by Sir Henry BishopSophie Hamer \n \n Dôme épaisfrom Lakmé by Léo DelibesSophie Hamer and Chloe James \n \n Down in the forestfrom A Cycle of Life by Landon RonaldChloe James \n \n Chanson indouefrom Sadko by Nicolai Rimsky-KorsakovSophie Hamer \n \n Mattinataby Sir Paolo TostiAidan Hodder \n \n Goodbyeby Sir Paolo TostiSophie Hamer\, Chloe James and Aidan Hodder \n \n Associate Artist Sharolyn Kimmorley AM Melba Artists appear as part of the Ryman Healthcare Performance Program   \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Melba Opera Trust Melba Opera Trust\, a legacy of the visionary soprano Dame Nellie Melba\, delivers Australia’s leading development program for exceptional young opera singers and repetiteurs.  Nellie once said ‘in order to succeed in opera\, you have to engage in the business of singing. A beautiful voice is not enough.’ This is at the heart of our philosophy: our artists are trained to be more than a voice\, to be equipped with the skills they need to build sustainable careers.  The Melba Program\, a year-long scholarship funded program\, supports artists from around Australia through a bespoke course of artistic development\, mentoring in business\, professional and personal skill development\, and performance experience.  Following in Nellie’s footsteps\, many of Melba’s talented alumni are realising their dreams and performing in opera houses around the world.  Join us to hear these future stars! \n \n Includes A sumptuous Devonshire tea (scones are made to a tradional Victorian recipe – Amelia Cotterel) served on vintage Johnston Brothers china\, in the Minerva Space. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tickets $39.96 per person includes gst & booking fee. Tickets can also be purchased in the Library \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 This event supports the Australian Heritage Festival & The Ballarat Heritage Festivals URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/operas-bad-girl/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Live Music,Theatre Production,Victorian Seniors Festival ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/sq-promo-bad-girl.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251025T100000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251025T160000 DTSTAMP:20260413T080426 CREATED:20250805T043957Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250922T061603Z UID:66614-1761386400-1761408000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Linen and Lace: An exhibition through the decades DESCRIPTION:Dame Nellie Melba Celebration Performance \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 18\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n2:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n4:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$39.96 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Venue \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 An afternoon of song\, arias and duets…The BMI in partnership with Melba Opera Trust. Meet the 2025 Melba artists\, as they perform a repertoire that celebrates the Birthday of Dame Nellie Melba – program coming soon… \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Artists \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n SOPHIE HAMERBritish-Australian Sophie Hamer holds a Bachelor of Music (Classical Vocal Performance) from the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts. Her roles include Ino (Australian Premiere of Eccles’ Semele)\, Angelina (Trial by Jury)\, Mabel(The Pirates of Penzance)\, and The Dew Fairy (Hansel and Gretel). Sophie has appeared as the soprano soloist in the Australian premiere of Goodall’s Invictus: A Passion\, Messiah\,  Jauchzet Gott in allen Landen and in Enchanted Encounters – Songs of the Supernatural with West Australian Opera. She is the current recipient of The Amelia Joscelyne Memorial Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n AIDAN HODDERAidan Hodder holds a Master of Music Studies from Queensland Conservatorium\, Griffith University. Aidan made his professional debut in 2023 in State Opera South Australia’s G & S FEST\, singing John Wellington Wells (The Sorcerer). Recently Aidan performed as Samuel (The Pirates of Penzance) at Queensland Performing Arts Centre presented by Prospero Arts and directed Stuart Maunder AM. Aidan is an advocate for children’s education and currently works for the Brisbane-based educational entertainment company Dino Encounters. He is the current recipient of the John Wegner AO Opera Scholarship and the Max & Jill Schultz Opera Society Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n CHLOE JAMES Chloe James holds a Bachelor of Music (Classical Voice) and a Master of Music (Opera Performance) from the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music\, and she is an alumna of Opera Scholars Australia. Chloe’s performing credits include Hansel and Gretel\, The Magic Flute\, and The Old Maid and the Thief (Melbourne Conservatorium)\, as well as English Eccentrics\, Parrwang Lifts the Sky\, The Grumpiest Boy in the World and Il Mago di Oz (Victorian Opera). She is the current recipient of the Ruskin Opera Scholarship and the Jo Horgan & Peter Wetenhall Opera Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n SHAROLYN KIMMORLEY AM After studying at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music\, Sharolyn Kimmorley joined the Music Staff of The Australian Opera and has assisted in the preparation of a vast range of works with many distinguished singers and conductors. In 1985 she became Principal Répétiteur for The Australian Opera and in 1987 was appointed Head of Music Staff. From 1994 to 1999 she was the company’s Artistic Administrator\, following which she was Opera Australia’s Director of Music Administration until June 2003. Sharolyn Kimmorley is regarded as one of Australia’s finest vocal coaches and accompanists. She has recorded for ABC Classics\, taken part in chamber musicconcerts and accompanied some of the world’s most distinguished recitalists. In January 2009 Sharolyn became a member of the Order of Australia in recognition of her work as an accompanist and the nurturing and mentoring of emerging artists. Sharolyn is currently Artistic Manager and Artist Advisor to Melba Opera Trust and recently joined the board of Victorian Opera. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Program \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Chacun le saitfrom The Daughter of the Regiment by Gaetano DonizettiSophie Hamer \n \n Avant de quitter ces lieuxfrom Faust by Charles GounodAidan Hodder \n \n Faites-lui mes aveuxfrom Faust by Charles GounodChloe James \n \n Bei Männern\, welche Liebe fühlenfrom The Magic Flute by Wolfgang Amadeus MozartSophie Hamer and Aidan Hodder \n \n Depuis hier … Que fais-tu\, blanche tourterellefrom Romeo and Juliet by Charles GounodChloe James \n \n O vin dissipe la tristessefrom Hamlet by Ambroise ThomasAidan Hodder \n \n Lo! Here the gentle larkfrom The Comedy of Errors by Sir Henry BishopSophie Hamer \n \n Dôme épaisfrom Lakmé by Léo DelibesSophie Hamer and Chloe James \n \n Down in the forestfrom A Cycle of Life by Landon RonaldChloe James \n \n Chanson indouefrom Sadko by Nicolai Rimsky-KorsakovSophie Hamer \n \n Mattinataby Sir Paolo TostiAidan Hodder \n \n Goodbyeby Sir Paolo TostiSophie Hamer\, Chloe James and Aidan Hodder \n \n Associate Artist Sharolyn Kimmorley AM Melba Artists appear as part of the Ryman Healthcare Performance Program   \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Melba Opera Trust Melba Opera Trust\, a legacy of the visionary soprano Dame Nellie Melba\, delivers Australia’s leading development program for exceptional young opera singers and repetiteurs.  Nellie once said ‘in order to succeed in opera\, you have to engage in the business of singing. A beautiful voice is not enough.’ This is at the heart of our philosophy: our artists are trained to be more than a voice\, to be equipped with the skills they need to build sustainable careers.  The Melba Program\, a year-long scholarship funded program\, supports artists from around Australia through a bespoke course of artistic development\, mentoring in business\, professional and personal skill development\, and performance experience.  Following in Nellie’s footsteps\, many of Melba’s talented alumni are realising their dreams and performing in opera houses around the world.  Join us to hear these future stars! \n \n Includes A sumptuous Devonshire tea (scones are made to a tradional Victorian recipe – Amelia Cotterel) served on vintage Johnston Brothers china\, in the Minerva Space. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tickets $39.96 per person includes gst & booking fee. Tickets can also be purchased in the Library \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 This event supports the Australian Heritage Festival & The Ballarat Heritage Festivals URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/linen-and-lace-fundraiser/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Art programs,Fundraiser,Important Dates,Members,Urban Agriculture Month,Victorian Seniors Festival ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/linen-and-lace-sq-promo-v3-1.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251026T100000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251026T160000 DTSTAMP:20260413T080426 CREATED:20250903T045545Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250930T013159Z UID:67296-1761472800-1761494400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Linen and Lace: An exhibition through the decades DESCRIPTION:Dame Nellie Melba Celebration Performance \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 18\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n2:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n4:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$39.96 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Venue \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 An afternoon of song\, arias and duets…The BMI in partnership with Melba Opera Trust. Meet the 2025 Melba artists\, as they perform a repertoire that celebrates the Birthday of Dame Nellie Melba – program coming soon… \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Artists \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n SOPHIE HAMERBritish-Australian Sophie Hamer holds a Bachelor of Music (Classical Vocal Performance) from the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts. Her roles include Ino (Australian Premiere of Eccles’ Semele)\, Angelina (Trial by Jury)\, Mabel(The Pirates of Penzance)\, and The Dew Fairy (Hansel and Gretel). Sophie has appeared as the soprano soloist in the Australian premiere of Goodall’s Invictus: A Passion\, Messiah\,  Jauchzet Gott in allen Landen and in Enchanted Encounters – Songs of the Supernatural with West Australian Opera. She is the current recipient of The Amelia Joscelyne Memorial Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n AIDAN HODDERAidan Hodder holds a Master of Music Studies from Queensland Conservatorium\, Griffith University. Aidan made his professional debut in 2023 in State Opera South Australia’s G & S FEST\, singing John Wellington Wells (The Sorcerer). Recently Aidan performed as Samuel (The Pirates of Penzance) at Queensland Performing Arts Centre presented by Prospero Arts and directed Stuart Maunder AM. Aidan is an advocate for children’s education and currently works for the Brisbane-based educational entertainment company Dino Encounters. He is the current recipient of the John Wegner AO Opera Scholarship and the Max & Jill Schultz Opera Society Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n CHLOE JAMES Chloe James holds a Bachelor of Music (Classical Voice) and a Master of Music (Opera Performance) from the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music\, and she is an alumna of Opera Scholars Australia. Chloe’s performing credits include Hansel and Gretel\, The Magic Flute\, and The Old Maid and the Thief (Melbourne Conservatorium)\, as well as English Eccentrics\, Parrwang Lifts the Sky\, The Grumpiest Boy in the World and Il Mago di Oz (Victorian Opera). She is the current recipient of the Ruskin Opera Scholarship and the Jo Horgan & Peter Wetenhall Opera Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n SHAROLYN KIMMORLEY AM After studying at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music\, Sharolyn Kimmorley joined the Music Staff of The Australian Opera and has assisted in the preparation of a vast range of works with many distinguished singers and conductors. In 1985 she became Principal Répétiteur for The Australian Opera and in 1987 was appointed Head of Music Staff. From 1994 to 1999 she was the company’s Artistic Administrator\, following which she was Opera Australia’s Director of Music Administration until June 2003. Sharolyn Kimmorley is regarded as one of Australia’s finest vocal coaches and accompanists. She has recorded for ABC Classics\, taken part in chamber musicconcerts and accompanied some of the world’s most distinguished recitalists. In January 2009 Sharolyn became a member of the Order of Australia in recognition of her work as an accompanist and the nurturing and mentoring of emerging artists. Sharolyn is currently Artistic Manager and Artist Advisor to Melba Opera Trust and recently joined the board of Victorian Opera. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Program \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Chacun le saitfrom The Daughter of the Regiment by Gaetano DonizettiSophie Hamer \n \n Avant de quitter ces lieuxfrom Faust by Charles GounodAidan Hodder \n \n Faites-lui mes aveuxfrom Faust by Charles GounodChloe James \n \n Bei Männern\, welche Liebe fühlenfrom The Magic Flute by Wolfgang Amadeus MozartSophie Hamer and Aidan Hodder \n \n Depuis hier … Que fais-tu\, blanche tourterellefrom Romeo and Juliet by Charles GounodChloe James \n \n O vin dissipe la tristessefrom Hamlet by Ambroise ThomasAidan Hodder \n \n Lo! Here the gentle larkfrom The Comedy of Errors by Sir Henry BishopSophie Hamer \n \n Dôme épaisfrom Lakmé by Léo DelibesSophie Hamer and Chloe James \n \n Down in the forestfrom A Cycle of Life by Landon RonaldChloe James \n \n Chanson indouefrom Sadko by Nicolai Rimsky-KorsakovSophie Hamer \n \n Mattinataby Sir Paolo TostiAidan Hodder \n \n Goodbyeby Sir Paolo TostiSophie Hamer\, Chloe James and Aidan Hodder \n \n Associate Artist Sharolyn Kimmorley AM Melba Artists appear as part of the Ryman Healthcare Performance Program   \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Melba Opera Trust Melba Opera Trust\, a legacy of the visionary soprano Dame Nellie Melba\, delivers Australia’s leading development program for exceptional young opera singers and repetiteurs.  Nellie once said ‘in order to succeed in opera\, you have to engage in the business of singing. A beautiful voice is not enough.’ This is at the heart of our philosophy: our artists are trained to be more than a voice\, to be equipped with the skills they need to build sustainable careers.  The Melba Program\, a year-long scholarship funded program\, supports artists from around Australia through a bespoke course of artistic development\, mentoring in business\, professional and personal skill development\, and performance experience.  Following in Nellie’s footsteps\, many of Melba’s talented alumni are realising their dreams and performing in opera houses around the world.  Join us to hear these future stars! \n \n Includes A sumptuous Devonshire tea (scones are made to a tradional Victorian recipe – Amelia Cotterel) served on vintage Johnston Brothers china\, in the Minerva Space. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tickets $39.96 per person includes gst & booking fee. Tickets can also be purchased in the Library \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 This event supports the Australian Heritage Festival & The Ballarat Heritage Festivals URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/linen-and-lace-fundraiser-2/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Art programs,Fundraiser,Important Dates,Members,Victorian Seniors Festival ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/linen-and-lace-sq-promo-v3.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251029T173000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251029T183000 DTSTAMP:20260413T080426 CREATED:20250728T043616Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250905T043434Z UID:66385-1761759000-1761762600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Twilight Talks 2025\, Season 4\, Remembrance Day | A Surgeon Commander & A Leading Cook - Ballarat Connections to HMAS Sydney 2 in 1941 DESCRIPTION:Dame Nellie Melba Celebration Performance \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 18\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n2:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n4:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$39.96 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Venue \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 An afternoon of song\, arias and duets…The BMI in partnership with Melba Opera Trust. Meet the 2025 Melba artists\, as they perform a repertoire that celebrates the Birthday of Dame Nellie Melba – program coming soon… \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Artists \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n SOPHIE HAMERBritish-Australian Sophie Hamer holds a Bachelor of Music (Classical Vocal Performance) from the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts. Her roles include Ino (Australian Premiere of Eccles’ Semele)\, Angelina (Trial by Jury)\, Mabel(The Pirates of Penzance)\, and The Dew Fairy (Hansel and Gretel). Sophie has appeared as the soprano soloist in the Australian premiere of Goodall’s Invictus: A Passion\, Messiah\,  Jauchzet Gott in allen Landen and in Enchanted Encounters – Songs of the Supernatural with West Australian Opera. She is the current recipient of The Amelia Joscelyne Memorial Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n AIDAN HODDERAidan Hodder holds a Master of Music Studies from Queensland Conservatorium\, Griffith University. Aidan made his professional debut in 2023 in State Opera South Australia’s G & S FEST\, singing John Wellington Wells (The Sorcerer). Recently Aidan performed as Samuel (The Pirates of Penzance) at Queensland Performing Arts Centre presented by Prospero Arts and directed Stuart Maunder AM. Aidan is an advocate for children’s education and currently works for the Brisbane-based educational entertainment company Dino Encounters. He is the current recipient of the John Wegner AO Opera Scholarship and the Max & Jill Schultz Opera Society Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n CHLOE JAMES Chloe James holds a Bachelor of Music (Classical Voice) and a Master of Music (Opera Performance) from the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music\, and she is an alumna of Opera Scholars Australia. Chloe’s performing credits include Hansel and Gretel\, The Magic Flute\, and The Old Maid and the Thief (Melbourne Conservatorium)\, as well as English Eccentrics\, Parrwang Lifts the Sky\, The Grumpiest Boy in the World and Il Mago di Oz (Victorian Opera). She is the current recipient of the Ruskin Opera Scholarship and the Jo Horgan & Peter Wetenhall Opera Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n SHAROLYN KIMMORLEY AM After studying at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music\, Sharolyn Kimmorley joined the Music Staff of The Australian Opera and has assisted in the preparation of a vast range of works with many distinguished singers and conductors. In 1985 she became Principal Répétiteur for The Australian Opera and in 1987 was appointed Head of Music Staff. From 1994 to 1999 she was the company’s Artistic Administrator\, following which she was Opera Australia’s Director of Music Administration until June 2003. Sharolyn Kimmorley is regarded as one of Australia’s finest vocal coaches and accompanists. She has recorded for ABC Classics\, taken part in chamber musicconcerts and accompanied some of the world’s most distinguished recitalists. In January 2009 Sharolyn became a member of the Order of Australia in recognition of her work as an accompanist and the nurturing and mentoring of emerging artists. Sharolyn is currently Artistic Manager and Artist Advisor to Melba Opera Trust and recently joined the board of Victorian Opera. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Program \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Chacun le saitfrom The Daughter of the Regiment by Gaetano DonizettiSophie Hamer \n \n Avant de quitter ces lieuxfrom Faust by Charles GounodAidan Hodder \n \n Faites-lui mes aveuxfrom Faust by Charles GounodChloe James \n \n Bei Männern\, welche Liebe fühlenfrom The Magic Flute by Wolfgang Amadeus MozartSophie Hamer and Aidan Hodder \n \n Depuis hier … Que fais-tu\, blanche tourterellefrom Romeo and Juliet by Charles GounodChloe James \n \n O vin dissipe la tristessefrom Hamlet by Ambroise ThomasAidan Hodder \n \n Lo! Here the gentle larkfrom The Comedy of Errors by Sir Henry BishopSophie Hamer \n \n Dôme épaisfrom Lakmé by Léo DelibesSophie Hamer and Chloe James \n \n Down in the forestfrom A Cycle of Life by Landon RonaldChloe James \n \n Chanson indouefrom Sadko by Nicolai Rimsky-KorsakovSophie Hamer \n \n Mattinataby Sir Paolo TostiAidan Hodder \n \n Goodbyeby Sir Paolo TostiSophie Hamer\, Chloe James and Aidan Hodder \n \n Associate Artist Sharolyn Kimmorley AM Melba Artists appear as part of the Ryman Healthcare Performance Program   \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Melba Opera Trust Melba Opera Trust\, a legacy of the visionary soprano Dame Nellie Melba\, delivers Australia’s leading development program for exceptional young opera singers and repetiteurs.  Nellie once said ‘in order to succeed in opera\, you have to engage in the business of singing. A beautiful voice is not enough.’ This is at the heart of our philosophy: our artists are trained to be more than a voice\, to be equipped with the skills they need to build sustainable careers.  The Melba Program\, a year-long scholarship funded program\, supports artists from around Australia through a bespoke course of artistic development\, mentoring in business\, professional and personal skill development\, and performance experience.  Following in Nellie’s footsteps\, many of Melba’s talented alumni are realising their dreams and performing in opera houses around the world.  Join us to hear these future stars! \n \n Includes A sumptuous Devonshire tea (scones are made to a tradional Victorian recipe – Amelia Cotterel) served on vintage Johnston Brothers china\, in the Minerva Space. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tickets $39.96 per person includes gst & booking fee. Tickets can also be purchased in the Library \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 This event supports the Australian Heritage Festival & The Ballarat Heritage Festivals URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/twilight-talks-surgeon-commander-leading-cook/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Fundraiser,Important Dates,Members,Talk,Twilight Talks,Victorian Seniors Festival ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/hmas-sydney-2.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251029T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251029T200000 DTSTAMP:20260413T080426 CREATED:20250813T050626Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250813T050736Z UID:66969-1761764400-1761768000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Kadampa Meditation Series | How to solve our human problems DESCRIPTION:Dame Nellie Melba Celebration Performance \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 18\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n2:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n4:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$39.96 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Venue \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 An afternoon of song\, arias and duets…The BMI in partnership with Melba Opera Trust. Meet the 2025 Melba artists\, as they perform a repertoire that celebrates the Birthday of Dame Nellie Melba – program coming soon… \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Artists \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n SOPHIE HAMERBritish-Australian Sophie Hamer holds a Bachelor of Music (Classical Vocal Performance) from the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts. Her roles include Ino (Australian Premiere of Eccles’ Semele)\, Angelina (Trial by Jury)\, Mabel(The Pirates of Penzance)\, and The Dew Fairy (Hansel and Gretel). Sophie has appeared as the soprano soloist in the Australian premiere of Goodall’s Invictus: A Passion\, Messiah\,  Jauchzet Gott in allen Landen and in Enchanted Encounters – Songs of the Supernatural with West Australian Opera. She is the current recipient of The Amelia Joscelyne Memorial Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n AIDAN HODDERAidan Hodder holds a Master of Music Studies from Queensland Conservatorium\, Griffith University. Aidan made his professional debut in 2023 in State Opera South Australia’s G & S FEST\, singing John Wellington Wells (The Sorcerer). Recently Aidan performed as Samuel (The Pirates of Penzance) at Queensland Performing Arts Centre presented by Prospero Arts and directed Stuart Maunder AM. Aidan is an advocate for children’s education and currently works for the Brisbane-based educational entertainment company Dino Encounters. He is the current recipient of the John Wegner AO Opera Scholarship and the Max & Jill Schultz Opera Society Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n CHLOE JAMES Chloe James holds a Bachelor of Music (Classical Voice) and a Master of Music (Opera Performance) from the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music\, and she is an alumna of Opera Scholars Australia. Chloe’s performing credits include Hansel and Gretel\, The Magic Flute\, and The Old Maid and the Thief (Melbourne Conservatorium)\, as well as English Eccentrics\, Parrwang Lifts the Sky\, The Grumpiest Boy in the World and Il Mago di Oz (Victorian Opera). She is the current recipient of the Ruskin Opera Scholarship and the Jo Horgan & Peter Wetenhall Opera Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n SHAROLYN KIMMORLEY AM After studying at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music\, Sharolyn Kimmorley joined the Music Staff of The Australian Opera and has assisted in the preparation of a vast range of works with many distinguished singers and conductors. In 1985 she became Principal Répétiteur for The Australian Opera and in 1987 was appointed Head of Music Staff. From 1994 to 1999 she was the company’s Artistic Administrator\, following which she was Opera Australia’s Director of Music Administration until June 2003. Sharolyn Kimmorley is regarded as one of Australia’s finest vocal coaches and accompanists. She has recorded for ABC Classics\, taken part in chamber musicconcerts and accompanied some of the world’s most distinguished recitalists. In January 2009 Sharolyn became a member of the Order of Australia in recognition of her work as an accompanist and the nurturing and mentoring of emerging artists. Sharolyn is currently Artistic Manager and Artist Advisor to Melba Opera Trust and recently joined the board of Victorian Opera. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Program \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Chacun le saitfrom The Daughter of the Regiment by Gaetano DonizettiSophie Hamer \n \n Avant de quitter ces lieuxfrom Faust by Charles GounodAidan Hodder \n \n Faites-lui mes aveuxfrom Faust by Charles GounodChloe James \n \n Bei Männern\, welche Liebe fühlenfrom The Magic Flute by Wolfgang Amadeus MozartSophie Hamer and Aidan Hodder \n \n Depuis hier … Que fais-tu\, blanche tourterellefrom Romeo and Juliet by Charles GounodChloe James \n \n O vin dissipe la tristessefrom Hamlet by Ambroise ThomasAidan Hodder \n \n Lo! Here the gentle larkfrom The Comedy of Errors by Sir Henry BishopSophie Hamer \n \n Dôme épaisfrom Lakmé by Léo DelibesSophie Hamer and Chloe James \n \n Down in the forestfrom A Cycle of Life by Landon RonaldChloe James \n \n Chanson indouefrom Sadko by Nicolai Rimsky-KorsakovSophie Hamer \n \n Mattinataby Sir Paolo TostiAidan Hodder \n \n Goodbyeby Sir Paolo TostiSophie Hamer\, Chloe James and Aidan Hodder \n \n Associate Artist Sharolyn Kimmorley AM Melba Artists appear as part of the Ryman Healthcare Performance Program   \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Melba Opera Trust Melba Opera Trust\, a legacy of the visionary soprano Dame Nellie Melba\, delivers Australia’s leading development program for exceptional young opera singers and repetiteurs.  Nellie once said ‘in order to succeed in opera\, you have to engage in the business of singing. A beautiful voice is not enough.’ This is at the heart of our philosophy: our artists are trained to be more than a voice\, to be equipped with the skills they need to build sustainable careers.  The Melba Program\, a year-long scholarship funded program\, supports artists from around Australia through a bespoke course of artistic development\, mentoring in business\, professional and personal skill development\, and performance experience.  Following in Nellie’s footsteps\, many of Melba’s talented alumni are realising their dreams and performing in opera houses around the world.  Join us to hear these future stars! \n \n Includes A sumptuous Devonshire tea (scones are made to a tradional Victorian recipe – Amelia Cotterel) served on vintage Johnston Brothers china\, in the Minerva Space. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tickets $39.96 per person includes gst & booking fee. Tickets can also be purchased in the Library \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 This event supports the Australian Heritage Festival & The Ballarat Heritage Festivals URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/kadampa-meditation-series-29-october-25/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:kadampa ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/square-promo-human-poblems.webp ORGANIZER;CN="Kadampa Meditation":MAILTO:info@kadampa.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251031T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251031T200000 DTSTAMP:20260413T080426 CREATED:20250923T045951Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250923T051016Z UID:67550-1761937200-1761940800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Minerva's Secrets | Night Tour DESCRIPTION:Dame Nellie Melba Celebration Performance \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 18\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n2:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n4:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$39.96 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Venue \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 An afternoon of song\, arias and duets…The BMI in partnership with Melba Opera Trust. Meet the 2025 Melba artists\, as they perform a repertoire that celebrates the Birthday of Dame Nellie Melba – program coming soon… \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Artists \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n SOPHIE HAMERBritish-Australian Sophie Hamer holds a Bachelor of Music (Classical Vocal Performance) from the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts. Her roles include Ino (Australian Premiere of Eccles’ Semele)\, Angelina (Trial by Jury)\, Mabel(The Pirates of Penzance)\, and The Dew Fairy (Hansel and Gretel). Sophie has appeared as the soprano soloist in the Australian premiere of Goodall’s Invictus: A Passion\, Messiah\,  Jauchzet Gott in allen Landen and in Enchanted Encounters – Songs of the Supernatural with West Australian Opera. She is the current recipient of The Amelia Joscelyne Memorial Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n AIDAN HODDERAidan Hodder holds a Master of Music Studies from Queensland Conservatorium\, Griffith University. Aidan made his professional debut in 2023 in State Opera South Australia’s G & S FEST\, singing John Wellington Wells (The Sorcerer). Recently Aidan performed as Samuel (The Pirates of Penzance) at Queensland Performing Arts Centre presented by Prospero Arts and directed Stuart Maunder AM. Aidan is an advocate for children’s education and currently works for the Brisbane-based educational entertainment company Dino Encounters. He is the current recipient of the John Wegner AO Opera Scholarship and the Max & Jill Schultz Opera Society Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n CHLOE JAMES Chloe James holds a Bachelor of Music (Classical Voice) and a Master of Music (Opera Performance) from the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music\, and she is an alumna of Opera Scholars Australia. Chloe’s performing credits include Hansel and Gretel\, The Magic Flute\, and The Old Maid and the Thief (Melbourne Conservatorium)\, as well as English Eccentrics\, Parrwang Lifts the Sky\, The Grumpiest Boy in the World and Il Mago di Oz (Victorian Opera). She is the current recipient of the Ruskin Opera Scholarship and the Jo Horgan & Peter Wetenhall Opera Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n SHAROLYN KIMMORLEY AM After studying at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music\, Sharolyn Kimmorley joined the Music Staff of The Australian Opera and has assisted in the preparation of a vast range of works with many distinguished singers and conductors. In 1985 she became Principal Répétiteur for The Australian Opera and in 1987 was appointed Head of Music Staff. From 1994 to 1999 she was the company’s Artistic Administrator\, following which she was Opera Australia’s Director of Music Administration until June 2003. Sharolyn Kimmorley is regarded as one of Australia’s finest vocal coaches and accompanists. She has recorded for ABC Classics\, taken part in chamber musicconcerts and accompanied some of the world’s most distinguished recitalists. In January 2009 Sharolyn became a member of the Order of Australia in recognition of her work as an accompanist and the nurturing and mentoring of emerging artists. Sharolyn is currently Artistic Manager and Artist Advisor to Melba Opera Trust and recently joined the board of Victorian Opera. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Program \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Chacun le saitfrom The Daughter of the Regiment by Gaetano DonizettiSophie Hamer \n \n Avant de quitter ces lieuxfrom Faust by Charles GounodAidan Hodder \n \n Faites-lui mes aveuxfrom Faust by Charles GounodChloe James \n \n Bei Männern\, welche Liebe fühlenfrom The Magic Flute by Wolfgang Amadeus MozartSophie Hamer and Aidan Hodder \n \n Depuis hier … Que fais-tu\, blanche tourterellefrom Romeo and Juliet by Charles GounodChloe James \n \n O vin dissipe la tristessefrom Hamlet by Ambroise ThomasAidan Hodder \n \n Lo! Here the gentle larkfrom The Comedy of Errors by Sir Henry BishopSophie Hamer \n \n Dôme épaisfrom Lakmé by Léo DelibesSophie Hamer and Chloe James \n \n Down in the forestfrom A Cycle of Life by Landon RonaldChloe James \n \n Chanson indouefrom Sadko by Nicolai Rimsky-KorsakovSophie Hamer \n \n Mattinataby Sir Paolo TostiAidan Hodder \n \n Goodbyeby Sir Paolo TostiSophie Hamer\, Chloe James and Aidan Hodder \n \n Associate Artist Sharolyn Kimmorley AM Melba Artists appear as part of the Ryman Healthcare Performance Program   \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Melba Opera Trust Melba Opera Trust\, a legacy of the visionary soprano Dame Nellie Melba\, delivers Australia’s leading development program for exceptional young opera singers and repetiteurs.  Nellie once said ‘in order to succeed in opera\, you have to engage in the business of singing. A beautiful voice is not enough.’ This is at the heart of our philosophy: our artists are trained to be more than a voice\, to be equipped with the skills they need to build sustainable careers.  The Melba Program\, a year-long scholarship funded program\, supports artists from around Australia through a bespoke course of artistic development\, mentoring in business\, professional and personal skill development\, and performance experience.  Following in Nellie’s footsteps\, many of Melba’s talented alumni are realising their dreams and performing in opera houses around the world.  Join us to hear these future stars! \n \n Includes A sumptuous Devonshire tea (scones are made to a tradional Victorian recipe – Amelia Cotterel) served on vintage Johnston Brothers china\, in the Minerva Space. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tickets $39.96 per person includes gst & booking fee. Tickets can also be purchased in the Library \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 This event supports the Australian Heritage Festival & The Ballarat Heritage Festivals URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/minervas-secrets-night-tours-31-oct-25/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Important Dates,Night Tours,Tours,Victorian Seniors Festival ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/received_908662326866361-e1708918930337.jpeg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251031T210000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251031T220000 DTSTAMP:20260413T080426 CREATED:20250923T044958Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250923T051126Z UID:67531-1761944400-1761948000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Minerva's Secrets | Night Tour DESCRIPTION:Dame Nellie Melba Celebration Performance \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 18\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n2:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n4:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$39.96 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Venue \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 An afternoon of song\, arias and duets…The BMI in partnership with Melba Opera Trust. Meet the 2025 Melba artists\, as they perform a repertoire that celebrates the Birthday of Dame Nellie Melba – program coming soon… \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Artists \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n SOPHIE HAMERBritish-Australian Sophie Hamer holds a Bachelor of Music (Classical Vocal Performance) from the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts. Her roles include Ino (Australian Premiere of Eccles’ Semele)\, Angelina (Trial by Jury)\, Mabel(The Pirates of Penzance)\, and The Dew Fairy (Hansel and Gretel). Sophie has appeared as the soprano soloist in the Australian premiere of Goodall’s Invictus: A Passion\, Messiah\,  Jauchzet Gott in allen Landen and in Enchanted Encounters – Songs of the Supernatural with West Australian Opera. She is the current recipient of The Amelia Joscelyne Memorial Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n AIDAN HODDERAidan Hodder holds a Master of Music Studies from Queensland Conservatorium\, Griffith University. Aidan made his professional debut in 2023 in State Opera South Australia’s G & S FEST\, singing John Wellington Wells (The Sorcerer). Recently Aidan performed as Samuel (The Pirates of Penzance) at Queensland Performing Arts Centre presented by Prospero Arts and directed Stuart Maunder AM. Aidan is an advocate for children’s education and currently works for the Brisbane-based educational entertainment company Dino Encounters. He is the current recipient of the John Wegner AO Opera Scholarship and the Max & Jill Schultz Opera Society Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n CHLOE JAMES Chloe James holds a Bachelor of Music (Classical Voice) and a Master of Music (Opera Performance) from the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music\, and she is an alumna of Opera Scholars Australia. Chloe’s performing credits include Hansel and Gretel\, The Magic Flute\, and The Old Maid and the Thief (Melbourne Conservatorium)\, as well as English Eccentrics\, Parrwang Lifts the Sky\, The Grumpiest Boy in the World and Il Mago di Oz (Victorian Opera). She is the current recipient of the Ruskin Opera Scholarship and the Jo Horgan & Peter Wetenhall Opera Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n SHAROLYN KIMMORLEY AM After studying at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music\, Sharolyn Kimmorley joined the Music Staff of The Australian Opera and has assisted in the preparation of a vast range of works with many distinguished singers and conductors. In 1985 she became Principal Répétiteur for The Australian Opera and in 1987 was appointed Head of Music Staff. From 1994 to 1999 she was the company’s Artistic Administrator\, following which she was Opera Australia’s Director of Music Administration until June 2003. Sharolyn Kimmorley is regarded as one of Australia’s finest vocal coaches and accompanists. She has recorded for ABC Classics\, taken part in chamber musicconcerts and accompanied some of the world’s most distinguished recitalists. In January 2009 Sharolyn became a member of the Order of Australia in recognition of her work as an accompanist and the nurturing and mentoring of emerging artists. Sharolyn is currently Artistic Manager and Artist Advisor to Melba Opera Trust and recently joined the board of Victorian Opera. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Program \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Chacun le saitfrom The Daughter of the Regiment by Gaetano DonizettiSophie Hamer \n \n Avant de quitter ces lieuxfrom Faust by Charles GounodAidan Hodder \n \n Faites-lui mes aveuxfrom Faust by Charles GounodChloe James \n \n Bei Männern\, welche Liebe fühlenfrom The Magic Flute by Wolfgang Amadeus MozartSophie Hamer and Aidan Hodder \n \n Depuis hier … Que fais-tu\, blanche tourterellefrom Romeo and Juliet by Charles GounodChloe James \n \n O vin dissipe la tristessefrom Hamlet by Ambroise ThomasAidan Hodder \n \n Lo! Here the gentle larkfrom The Comedy of Errors by Sir Henry BishopSophie Hamer \n \n Dôme épaisfrom Lakmé by Léo DelibesSophie Hamer and Chloe James \n \n Down in the forestfrom A Cycle of Life by Landon RonaldChloe James \n \n Chanson indouefrom Sadko by Nicolai Rimsky-KorsakovSophie Hamer \n \n Mattinataby Sir Paolo TostiAidan Hodder \n \n Goodbyeby Sir Paolo TostiSophie Hamer\, Chloe James and Aidan Hodder \n \n Associate Artist Sharolyn Kimmorley AM Melba Artists appear as part of the Ryman Healthcare Performance Program   \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Melba Opera Trust Melba Opera Trust\, a legacy of the visionary soprano Dame Nellie Melba\, delivers Australia’s leading development program for exceptional young opera singers and repetiteurs.  Nellie once said ‘in order to succeed in opera\, you have to engage in the business of singing. A beautiful voice is not enough.’ This is at the heart of our philosophy: our artists are trained to be more than a voice\, to be equipped with the skills they need to build sustainable careers.  The Melba Program\, a year-long scholarship funded program\, supports artists from around Australia through a bespoke course of artistic development\, mentoring in business\, professional and personal skill development\, and performance experience.  Following in Nellie’s footsteps\, many of Melba’s talented alumni are realising their dreams and performing in opera houses around the world.  Join us to hear these future stars! \n \n Includes A sumptuous Devonshire tea (scones are made to a tradional Victorian recipe – Amelia Cotterel) served on vintage Johnston Brothers china\, in the Minerva Space. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tickets $39.96 per person includes gst & booking fee. Tickets can also be purchased in the Library \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 This event supports the Australian Heritage Festival & The Ballarat Heritage Festivals URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/minervas-secrets-night-tours-31-oct-25-2/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Fundraiser,Important Dates,Night Tours,Tours,Victorian Seniors Festival ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/received_265285705882698-e1708919200874.jpeg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251105T173000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251105T183000 DTSTAMP:20260413T080426 CREATED:20250728T053444Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251110T033437Z UID:66400-1762363800-1762367400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Twilight Talks 2025\, Season 4\, Remembrance Day | Recent War Memorabilia - from WW2 to Afghanistan\, Presented by David Wright. DESCRIPTION:Dame Nellie Melba Celebration Performance \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 18\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n2:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n4:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$39.96 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Venue \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 An afternoon of song\, arias and duets…The BMI in partnership with Melba Opera Trust. Meet the 2025 Melba artists\, as they perform a repertoire that celebrates the Birthday of Dame Nellie Melba – program coming soon… \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Artists \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n SOPHIE HAMERBritish-Australian Sophie Hamer holds a Bachelor of Music (Classical Vocal Performance) from the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts. Her roles include Ino (Australian Premiere of Eccles’ Semele)\, Angelina (Trial by Jury)\, Mabel(The Pirates of Penzance)\, and The Dew Fairy (Hansel and Gretel). Sophie has appeared as the soprano soloist in the Australian premiere of Goodall’s Invictus: A Passion\, Messiah\,  Jauchzet Gott in allen Landen and in Enchanted Encounters – Songs of the Supernatural with West Australian Opera. She is the current recipient of The Amelia Joscelyne Memorial Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n AIDAN HODDERAidan Hodder holds a Master of Music Studies from Queensland Conservatorium\, Griffith University. Aidan made his professional debut in 2023 in State Opera South Australia’s G & S FEST\, singing John Wellington Wells (The Sorcerer). Recently Aidan performed as Samuel (The Pirates of Penzance) at Queensland Performing Arts Centre presented by Prospero Arts and directed Stuart Maunder AM. Aidan is an advocate for children’s education and currently works for the Brisbane-based educational entertainment company Dino Encounters. He is the current recipient of the John Wegner AO Opera Scholarship and the Max & Jill Schultz Opera Society Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n CHLOE JAMES Chloe James holds a Bachelor of Music (Classical Voice) and a Master of Music (Opera Performance) from the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music\, and she is an alumna of Opera Scholars Australia. Chloe’s performing credits include Hansel and Gretel\, The Magic Flute\, and The Old Maid and the Thief (Melbourne Conservatorium)\, as well as English Eccentrics\, Parrwang Lifts the Sky\, The Grumpiest Boy in the World and Il Mago di Oz (Victorian Opera). She is the current recipient of the Ruskin Opera Scholarship and the Jo Horgan & Peter Wetenhall Opera Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n SHAROLYN KIMMORLEY AM After studying at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music\, Sharolyn Kimmorley joined the Music Staff of The Australian Opera and has assisted in the preparation of a vast range of works with many distinguished singers and conductors. In 1985 she became Principal Répétiteur for The Australian Opera and in 1987 was appointed Head of Music Staff. From 1994 to 1999 she was the company’s Artistic Administrator\, following which she was Opera Australia’s Director of Music Administration until June 2003. Sharolyn Kimmorley is regarded as one of Australia’s finest vocal coaches and accompanists. She has recorded for ABC Classics\, taken part in chamber musicconcerts and accompanied some of the world’s most distinguished recitalists. In January 2009 Sharolyn became a member of the Order of Australia in recognition of her work as an accompanist and the nurturing and mentoring of emerging artists. Sharolyn is currently Artistic Manager and Artist Advisor to Melba Opera Trust and recently joined the board of Victorian Opera. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Program \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Chacun le saitfrom The Daughter of the Regiment by Gaetano DonizettiSophie Hamer \n \n Avant de quitter ces lieuxfrom Faust by Charles GounodAidan Hodder \n \n Faites-lui mes aveuxfrom Faust by Charles GounodChloe James \n \n Bei Männern\, welche Liebe fühlenfrom The Magic Flute by Wolfgang Amadeus MozartSophie Hamer and Aidan Hodder \n \n Depuis hier … Que fais-tu\, blanche tourterellefrom Romeo and Juliet by Charles GounodChloe James \n \n O vin dissipe la tristessefrom Hamlet by Ambroise ThomasAidan Hodder \n \n Lo! Here the gentle larkfrom The Comedy of Errors by Sir Henry BishopSophie Hamer \n \n Dôme épaisfrom Lakmé by Léo DelibesSophie Hamer and Chloe James \n \n Down in the forestfrom A Cycle of Life by Landon RonaldChloe James \n \n Chanson indouefrom Sadko by Nicolai Rimsky-KorsakovSophie Hamer \n \n Mattinataby Sir Paolo TostiAidan Hodder \n \n Goodbyeby Sir Paolo TostiSophie Hamer\, Chloe James and Aidan Hodder \n \n Associate Artist Sharolyn Kimmorley AM Melba Artists appear as part of the Ryman Healthcare Performance Program   \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Melba Opera Trust Melba Opera Trust\, a legacy of the visionary soprano Dame Nellie Melba\, delivers Australia’s leading development program for exceptional young opera singers and repetiteurs.  Nellie once said ‘in order to succeed in opera\, you have to engage in the business of singing. A beautiful voice is not enough.’ This is at the heart of our philosophy: our artists are trained to be more than a voice\, to be equipped with the skills they need to build sustainable careers.  The Melba Program\, a year-long scholarship funded program\, supports artists from around Australia through a bespoke course of artistic development\, mentoring in business\, professional and personal skill development\, and performance experience.  Following in Nellie’s footsteps\, many of Melba’s talented alumni are realising their dreams and performing in opera houses around the world.  Join us to hear these future stars! \n \n Includes A sumptuous Devonshire tea (scones are made to a tradional Victorian recipe – Amelia Cotterel) served on vintage Johnston Brothers china\, in the Minerva Space. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tickets $39.96 per person includes gst & booking fee. Tickets can also be purchased in the Library \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 This event supports the Australian Heritage Festival & The Ballarat Heritage Festivals URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/twilight-talks-war-memorabilia/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Fundraiser,Important Dates,Members,Talk,Twilight Talks,Victorian Seniors Festival ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/square-promo-medals-v36.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251105T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251105T184500 DTSTAMP:20260413T080426 CREATED:20250812T005546Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251021T040122Z UID:66788-1762365600-1762368300@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Stella Day Out Ballarat | Katia Ariel 'The Swift Dark Tide' in conversation with Kelly Gardiner DESCRIPTION:Dame Nellie Melba Celebration Performance \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 18\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n2:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n4:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$39.96 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Venue \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 An afternoon of song\, arias and duets…The BMI in partnership with Melba Opera Trust. Meet the 2025 Melba artists\, as they perform a repertoire that celebrates the Birthday of Dame Nellie Melba – program coming soon… \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Artists \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n SOPHIE HAMERBritish-Australian Sophie Hamer holds a Bachelor of Music (Classical Vocal Performance) from the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts. Her roles include Ino (Australian Premiere of Eccles’ Semele)\, Angelina (Trial by Jury)\, Mabel(The Pirates of Penzance)\, and The Dew Fairy (Hansel and Gretel). Sophie has appeared as the soprano soloist in the Australian premiere of Goodall’s Invictus: A Passion\, Messiah\,  Jauchzet Gott in allen Landen and in Enchanted Encounters – Songs of the Supernatural with West Australian Opera. She is the current recipient of The Amelia Joscelyne Memorial Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n AIDAN HODDERAidan Hodder holds a Master of Music Studies from Queensland Conservatorium\, Griffith University. Aidan made his professional debut in 2023 in State Opera South Australia’s G & S FEST\, singing John Wellington Wells (The Sorcerer). Recently Aidan performed as Samuel (The Pirates of Penzance) at Queensland Performing Arts Centre presented by Prospero Arts and directed Stuart Maunder AM. Aidan is an advocate for children’s education and currently works for the Brisbane-based educational entertainment company Dino Encounters. He is the current recipient of the John Wegner AO Opera Scholarship and the Max & Jill Schultz Opera Society Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n CHLOE JAMES Chloe James holds a Bachelor of Music (Classical Voice) and a Master of Music (Opera Performance) from the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music\, and she is an alumna of Opera Scholars Australia. Chloe’s performing credits include Hansel and Gretel\, The Magic Flute\, and The Old Maid and the Thief (Melbourne Conservatorium)\, as well as English Eccentrics\, Parrwang Lifts the Sky\, The Grumpiest Boy in the World and Il Mago di Oz (Victorian Opera). She is the current recipient of the Ruskin Opera Scholarship and the Jo Horgan & Peter Wetenhall Opera Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n SHAROLYN KIMMORLEY AM After studying at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music\, Sharolyn Kimmorley joined the Music Staff of The Australian Opera and has assisted in the preparation of a vast range of works with many distinguished singers and conductors. In 1985 she became Principal Répétiteur for The Australian Opera and in 1987 was appointed Head of Music Staff. From 1994 to 1999 she was the company’s Artistic Administrator\, following which she was Opera Australia’s Director of Music Administration until June 2003. Sharolyn Kimmorley is regarded as one of Australia’s finest vocal coaches and accompanists. She has recorded for ABC Classics\, taken part in chamber musicconcerts and accompanied some of the world’s most distinguished recitalists. In January 2009 Sharolyn became a member of the Order of Australia in recognition of her work as an accompanist and the nurturing and mentoring of emerging artists. Sharolyn is currently Artistic Manager and Artist Advisor to Melba Opera Trust and recently joined the board of Victorian Opera. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Program \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Chacun le saitfrom The Daughter of the Regiment by Gaetano DonizettiSophie Hamer \n \n Avant de quitter ces lieuxfrom Faust by Charles GounodAidan Hodder \n \n Faites-lui mes aveuxfrom Faust by Charles GounodChloe James \n \n Bei Männern\, welche Liebe fühlenfrom The Magic Flute by Wolfgang Amadeus MozartSophie Hamer and Aidan Hodder \n \n Depuis hier … Que fais-tu\, blanche tourterellefrom Romeo and Juliet by Charles GounodChloe James \n \n O vin dissipe la tristessefrom Hamlet by Ambroise ThomasAidan Hodder \n \n Lo! Here the gentle larkfrom The Comedy of Errors by Sir Henry BishopSophie Hamer \n \n Dôme épaisfrom Lakmé by Léo DelibesSophie Hamer and Chloe James \n \n Down in the forestfrom A Cycle of Life by Landon RonaldChloe James \n \n Chanson indouefrom Sadko by Nicolai Rimsky-KorsakovSophie Hamer \n \n Mattinataby Sir Paolo TostiAidan Hodder \n \n Goodbyeby Sir Paolo TostiSophie Hamer\, Chloe James and Aidan Hodder \n \n Associate Artist Sharolyn Kimmorley AM Melba Artists appear as part of the Ryman Healthcare Performance Program   \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Melba Opera Trust Melba Opera Trust\, a legacy of the visionary soprano Dame Nellie Melba\, delivers Australia’s leading development program for exceptional young opera singers and repetiteurs.  Nellie once said ‘in order to succeed in opera\, you have to engage in the business of singing. A beautiful voice is not enough.’ This is at the heart of our philosophy: our artists are trained to be more than a voice\, to be equipped with the skills they need to build sustainable careers.  The Melba Program\, a year-long scholarship funded program\, supports artists from around Australia through a bespoke course of artistic development\, mentoring in business\, professional and personal skill development\, and performance experience.  Following in Nellie’s footsteps\, many of Melba’s talented alumni are realising their dreams and performing in opera houses around the world.  Join us to hear these future stars! \n \n Includes A sumptuous Devonshire tea (scones are made to a tradional Victorian recipe – Amelia Cotterel) served on vintage Johnston Brothers china\, in the Minerva Space. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tickets $39.96 per person includes gst & booking fee. Tickets can also be purchased in the Library \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 This event supports the Australian Heritage Festival & The Ballarat Heritage Festivals URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/stella-day-out-katia-ariel/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Important Dates,Library,Stella Day Out ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/square-promo-katia.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251105T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251105T200000 DTSTAMP:20260413T080426 CREATED:20250813T050815Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250813T050909Z UID:66971-1762369200-1762372800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Kadampa Meditation Series | How to solve our human problems DESCRIPTION:Dame Nellie Melba Celebration Performance \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 18\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n2:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n4:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$39.96 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Venue \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 An afternoon of song\, arias and duets…The BMI in partnership with Melba Opera Trust. Meet the 2025 Melba artists\, as they perform a repertoire that celebrates the Birthday of Dame Nellie Melba – program coming soon… \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Artists \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n SOPHIE HAMERBritish-Australian Sophie Hamer holds a Bachelor of Music (Classical Vocal Performance) from the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts. Her roles include Ino (Australian Premiere of Eccles’ Semele)\, Angelina (Trial by Jury)\, Mabel(The Pirates of Penzance)\, and The Dew Fairy (Hansel and Gretel). Sophie has appeared as the soprano soloist in the Australian premiere of Goodall’s Invictus: A Passion\, Messiah\,  Jauchzet Gott in allen Landen and in Enchanted Encounters – Songs of the Supernatural with West Australian Opera. She is the current recipient of The Amelia Joscelyne Memorial Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n AIDAN HODDERAidan Hodder holds a Master of Music Studies from Queensland Conservatorium\, Griffith University. Aidan made his professional debut in 2023 in State Opera South Australia’s G & S FEST\, singing John Wellington Wells (The Sorcerer). Recently Aidan performed as Samuel (The Pirates of Penzance) at Queensland Performing Arts Centre presented by Prospero Arts and directed Stuart Maunder AM. Aidan is an advocate for children’s education and currently works for the Brisbane-based educational entertainment company Dino Encounters. He is the current recipient of the John Wegner AO Opera Scholarship and the Max & Jill Schultz Opera Society Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n CHLOE JAMES Chloe James holds a Bachelor of Music (Classical Voice) and a Master of Music (Opera Performance) from the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music\, and she is an alumna of Opera Scholars Australia. Chloe’s performing credits include Hansel and Gretel\, The Magic Flute\, and The Old Maid and the Thief (Melbourne Conservatorium)\, as well as English Eccentrics\, Parrwang Lifts the Sky\, The Grumpiest Boy in the World and Il Mago di Oz (Victorian Opera). She is the current recipient of the Ruskin Opera Scholarship and the Jo Horgan & Peter Wetenhall Opera Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n SHAROLYN KIMMORLEY AM After studying at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music\, Sharolyn Kimmorley joined the Music Staff of The Australian Opera and has assisted in the preparation of a vast range of works with many distinguished singers and conductors. In 1985 she became Principal Répétiteur for The Australian Opera and in 1987 was appointed Head of Music Staff. From 1994 to 1999 she was the company’s Artistic Administrator\, following which she was Opera Australia’s Director of Music Administration until June 2003. Sharolyn Kimmorley is regarded as one of Australia’s finest vocal coaches and accompanists. She has recorded for ABC Classics\, taken part in chamber musicconcerts and accompanied some of the world’s most distinguished recitalists. In January 2009 Sharolyn became a member of the Order of Australia in recognition of her work as an accompanist and the nurturing and mentoring of emerging artists. Sharolyn is currently Artistic Manager and Artist Advisor to Melba Opera Trust and recently joined the board of Victorian Opera. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Program \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Chacun le saitfrom The Daughter of the Regiment by Gaetano DonizettiSophie Hamer \n \n Avant de quitter ces lieuxfrom Faust by Charles GounodAidan Hodder \n \n Faites-lui mes aveuxfrom Faust by Charles GounodChloe James \n \n Bei Männern\, welche Liebe fühlenfrom The Magic Flute by Wolfgang Amadeus MozartSophie Hamer and Aidan Hodder \n \n Depuis hier … Que fais-tu\, blanche tourterellefrom Romeo and Juliet by Charles GounodChloe James \n \n O vin dissipe la tristessefrom Hamlet by Ambroise ThomasAidan Hodder \n \n Lo! Here the gentle larkfrom The Comedy of Errors by Sir Henry BishopSophie Hamer \n \n Dôme épaisfrom Lakmé by Léo DelibesSophie Hamer and Chloe James \n \n Down in the forestfrom A Cycle of Life by Landon RonaldChloe James \n \n Chanson indouefrom Sadko by Nicolai Rimsky-KorsakovSophie Hamer \n \n Mattinataby Sir Paolo TostiAidan Hodder \n \n Goodbyeby Sir Paolo TostiSophie Hamer\, Chloe James and Aidan Hodder \n \n Associate Artist Sharolyn Kimmorley AM Melba Artists appear as part of the Ryman Healthcare Performance Program   \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Melba Opera Trust Melba Opera Trust\, a legacy of the visionary soprano Dame Nellie Melba\, delivers Australia’s leading development program for exceptional young opera singers and repetiteurs.  Nellie once said ‘in order to succeed in opera\, you have to engage in the business of singing. A beautiful voice is not enough.’ This is at the heart of our philosophy: our artists are trained to be more than a voice\, to be equipped with the skills they need to build sustainable careers.  The Melba Program\, a year-long scholarship funded program\, supports artists from around Australia through a bespoke course of artistic development\, mentoring in business\, professional and personal skill development\, and performance experience.  Following in Nellie’s footsteps\, many of Melba’s talented alumni are realising their dreams and performing in opera houses around the world.  Join us to hear these future stars! \n \n Includes A sumptuous Devonshire tea (scones are made to a tradional Victorian recipe – Amelia Cotterel) served on vintage Johnston Brothers china\, in the Minerva Space. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tickets $39.96 per person includes gst & booking fee. Tickets can also be purchased in the Library \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 This event supports the Australian Heritage Festival & The Ballarat Heritage Festivals URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/kadampa-meditation-series-5-november-25/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:kadampa ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/square-promo-human-poblems.webp ORGANIZER;CN="Kadampa Meditation":MAILTO:info@kadampa.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251105T191500 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251105T200000 DTSTAMP:20260413T080426 CREATED:20250812T054350Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251021T035952Z UID:66822-1762370100-1762372800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Stella Day Out Ballarat | Samah Sabawi 'Cactus Pear For My Beloved' in conversation with Fatima Measham DESCRIPTION:Dame Nellie Melba Celebration Performance \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 18\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n2:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n4:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$39.96 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Venue \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 An afternoon of song\, arias and duets…The BMI in partnership with Melba Opera Trust. Meet the 2025 Melba artists\, as they perform a repertoire that celebrates the Birthday of Dame Nellie Melba – program coming soon… \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Artists \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n SOPHIE HAMERBritish-Australian Sophie Hamer holds a Bachelor of Music (Classical Vocal Performance) from the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts. Her roles include Ino (Australian Premiere of Eccles’ Semele)\, Angelina (Trial by Jury)\, Mabel(The Pirates of Penzance)\, and The Dew Fairy (Hansel and Gretel). Sophie has appeared as the soprano soloist in the Australian premiere of Goodall’s Invictus: A Passion\, Messiah\,  Jauchzet Gott in allen Landen and in Enchanted Encounters – Songs of the Supernatural with West Australian Opera. She is the current recipient of The Amelia Joscelyne Memorial Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n AIDAN HODDERAidan Hodder holds a Master of Music Studies from Queensland Conservatorium\, Griffith University. Aidan made his professional debut in 2023 in State Opera South Australia’s G & S FEST\, singing John Wellington Wells (The Sorcerer). Recently Aidan performed as Samuel (The Pirates of Penzance) at Queensland Performing Arts Centre presented by Prospero Arts and directed Stuart Maunder AM. Aidan is an advocate for children’s education and currently works for the Brisbane-based educational entertainment company Dino Encounters. He is the current recipient of the John Wegner AO Opera Scholarship and the Max & Jill Schultz Opera Society Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n CHLOE JAMES Chloe James holds a Bachelor of Music (Classical Voice) and a Master of Music (Opera Performance) from the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music\, and she is an alumna of Opera Scholars Australia. Chloe’s performing credits include Hansel and Gretel\, The Magic Flute\, and The Old Maid and the Thief (Melbourne Conservatorium)\, as well as English Eccentrics\, Parrwang Lifts the Sky\, The Grumpiest Boy in the World and Il Mago di Oz (Victorian Opera). She is the current recipient of the Ruskin Opera Scholarship and the Jo Horgan & Peter Wetenhall Opera Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n SHAROLYN KIMMORLEY AM After studying at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music\, Sharolyn Kimmorley joined the Music Staff of The Australian Opera and has assisted in the preparation of a vast range of works with many distinguished singers and conductors. In 1985 she became Principal Répétiteur for The Australian Opera and in 1987 was appointed Head of Music Staff. From 1994 to 1999 she was the company’s Artistic Administrator\, following which she was Opera Australia’s Director of Music Administration until June 2003. Sharolyn Kimmorley is regarded as one of Australia’s finest vocal coaches and accompanists. She has recorded for ABC Classics\, taken part in chamber musicconcerts and accompanied some of the world’s most distinguished recitalists. In January 2009 Sharolyn became a member of the Order of Australia in recognition of her work as an accompanist and the nurturing and mentoring of emerging artists. Sharolyn is currently Artistic Manager and Artist Advisor to Melba Opera Trust and recently joined the board of Victorian Opera. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Program \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Chacun le saitfrom The Daughter of the Regiment by Gaetano DonizettiSophie Hamer \n \n Avant de quitter ces lieuxfrom Faust by Charles GounodAidan Hodder \n \n Faites-lui mes aveuxfrom Faust by Charles GounodChloe James \n \n Bei Männern\, welche Liebe fühlenfrom The Magic Flute by Wolfgang Amadeus MozartSophie Hamer and Aidan Hodder \n \n Depuis hier … Que fais-tu\, blanche tourterellefrom Romeo and Juliet by Charles GounodChloe James \n \n O vin dissipe la tristessefrom Hamlet by Ambroise ThomasAidan Hodder \n \n Lo! Here the gentle larkfrom The Comedy of Errors by Sir Henry BishopSophie Hamer \n \n Dôme épaisfrom Lakmé by Léo DelibesSophie Hamer and Chloe James \n \n Down in the forestfrom A Cycle of Life by Landon RonaldChloe James \n \n Chanson indouefrom Sadko by Nicolai Rimsky-KorsakovSophie Hamer \n \n Mattinataby Sir Paolo TostiAidan Hodder \n \n Goodbyeby Sir Paolo TostiSophie Hamer\, Chloe James and Aidan Hodder \n \n Associate Artist Sharolyn Kimmorley AM Melba Artists appear as part of the Ryman Healthcare Performance Program   \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Melba Opera Trust Melba Opera Trust\, a legacy of the visionary soprano Dame Nellie Melba\, delivers Australia’s leading development program for exceptional young opera singers and repetiteurs.  Nellie once said ‘in order to succeed in opera\, you have to engage in the business of singing. A beautiful voice is not enough.’ This is at the heart of our philosophy: our artists are trained to be more than a voice\, to be equipped with the skills they need to build sustainable careers.  The Melba Program\, a year-long scholarship funded program\, supports artists from around Australia through a bespoke course of artistic development\, mentoring in business\, professional and personal skill development\, and performance experience.  Following in Nellie’s footsteps\, many of Melba’s talented alumni are realising their dreams and performing in opera houses around the world.  Join us to hear these future stars! \n \n Includes A sumptuous Devonshire tea (scones are made to a tradional Victorian recipe – Amelia Cotterel) served on vintage Johnston Brothers china\, in the Minerva Space. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tickets $39.96 per person includes gst & booking fee. Tickets can also be purchased in the Library \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 This event supports the Australian Heritage Festival & The Ballarat Heritage Festivals URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/stella-day-out-samah-sabawi/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Important Dates,Library,Stella Day Out ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/square-promo-samah.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251106T183000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251106T200000 DTSTAMP:20260413T080426 CREATED:20250711T034827Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250813T003339Z UID:66176-1762453800-1762459200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with Rachael Johns DESCRIPTION:Dame Nellie Melba Celebration Performance \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 18\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n2:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n4:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$39.96 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Venue \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 An afternoon of song\, arias and duets…The BMI in partnership with Melba Opera Trust. Meet the 2025 Melba artists\, as they perform a repertoire that celebrates the Birthday of Dame Nellie Melba – program coming soon… \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Artists \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n SOPHIE HAMERBritish-Australian Sophie Hamer holds a Bachelor of Music (Classical Vocal Performance) from the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts. Her roles include Ino (Australian Premiere of Eccles’ Semele)\, Angelina (Trial by Jury)\, Mabel(The Pirates of Penzance)\, and The Dew Fairy (Hansel and Gretel). Sophie has appeared as the soprano soloist in the Australian premiere of Goodall’s Invictus: A Passion\, Messiah\,  Jauchzet Gott in allen Landen and in Enchanted Encounters – Songs of the Supernatural with West Australian Opera. She is the current recipient of The Amelia Joscelyne Memorial Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n AIDAN HODDERAidan Hodder holds a Master of Music Studies from Queensland Conservatorium\, Griffith University. Aidan made his professional debut in 2023 in State Opera South Australia’s G & S FEST\, singing John Wellington Wells (The Sorcerer). Recently Aidan performed as Samuel (The Pirates of Penzance) at Queensland Performing Arts Centre presented by Prospero Arts and directed Stuart Maunder AM. Aidan is an advocate for children’s education and currently works for the Brisbane-based educational entertainment company Dino Encounters. He is the current recipient of the John Wegner AO Opera Scholarship and the Max & Jill Schultz Opera Society Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n CHLOE JAMES Chloe James holds a Bachelor of Music (Classical Voice) and a Master of Music (Opera Performance) from the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music\, and she is an alumna of Opera Scholars Australia. Chloe’s performing credits include Hansel and Gretel\, The Magic Flute\, and The Old Maid and the Thief (Melbourne Conservatorium)\, as well as English Eccentrics\, Parrwang Lifts the Sky\, The Grumpiest Boy in the World and Il Mago di Oz (Victorian Opera). She is the current recipient of the Ruskin Opera Scholarship and the Jo Horgan & Peter Wetenhall Opera Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n SHAROLYN KIMMORLEY AM After studying at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music\, Sharolyn Kimmorley joined the Music Staff of The Australian Opera and has assisted in the preparation of a vast range of works with many distinguished singers and conductors. In 1985 she became Principal Répétiteur for The Australian Opera and in 1987 was appointed Head of Music Staff. From 1994 to 1999 she was the company’s Artistic Administrator\, following which she was Opera Australia’s Director of Music Administration until June 2003. Sharolyn Kimmorley is regarded as one of Australia’s finest vocal coaches and accompanists. She has recorded for ABC Classics\, taken part in chamber musicconcerts and accompanied some of the world’s most distinguished recitalists. In January 2009 Sharolyn became a member of the Order of Australia in recognition of her work as an accompanist and the nurturing and mentoring of emerging artists. Sharolyn is currently Artistic Manager and Artist Advisor to Melba Opera Trust and recently joined the board of Victorian Opera. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Program \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Chacun le saitfrom The Daughter of the Regiment by Gaetano DonizettiSophie Hamer \n \n Avant de quitter ces lieuxfrom Faust by Charles GounodAidan Hodder \n \n Faites-lui mes aveuxfrom Faust by Charles GounodChloe James \n \n Bei Männern\, welche Liebe fühlenfrom The Magic Flute by Wolfgang Amadeus MozartSophie Hamer and Aidan Hodder \n \n Depuis hier … Que fais-tu\, blanche tourterellefrom Romeo and Juliet by Charles GounodChloe James \n \n O vin dissipe la tristessefrom Hamlet by Ambroise ThomasAidan Hodder \n \n Lo! Here the gentle larkfrom The Comedy of Errors by Sir Henry BishopSophie Hamer \n \n Dôme épaisfrom Lakmé by Léo DelibesSophie Hamer and Chloe James \n \n Down in the forestfrom A Cycle of Life by Landon RonaldChloe James \n \n Chanson indouefrom Sadko by Nicolai Rimsky-KorsakovSophie Hamer \n \n Mattinataby Sir Paolo TostiAidan Hodder \n \n Goodbyeby Sir Paolo TostiSophie Hamer\, Chloe James and Aidan Hodder \n \n Associate Artist Sharolyn Kimmorley AM Melba Artists appear as part of the Ryman Healthcare Performance Program   \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Melba Opera Trust Melba Opera Trust\, a legacy of the visionary soprano Dame Nellie Melba\, delivers Australia’s leading development program for exceptional young opera singers and repetiteurs.  Nellie once said ‘in order to succeed in opera\, you have to engage in the business of singing. A beautiful voice is not enough.’ This is at the heart of our philosophy: our artists are trained to be more than a voice\, to be equipped with the skills they need to build sustainable careers.  The Melba Program\, a year-long scholarship funded program\, supports artists from around Australia through a bespoke course of artistic development\, mentoring in business\, professional and personal skill development\, and performance experience.  Following in Nellie’s footsteps\, many of Melba’s talented alumni are realising their dreams and performing in opera houses around the world.  Join us to hear these future stars! \n \n Includes A sumptuous Devonshire tea (scones are made to a tradional Victorian recipe – Amelia Cotterel) served on vintage Johnston Brothers china\, in the Minerva Space. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tickets $39.96 per person includes gst & booking fee. Tickets can also be purchased in the Library \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 This event supports the Australian Heritage Festival & The Ballarat Heritage Festivals URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/rachael-johns/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Fundraiser,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/sq-promo-rachael-johns.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251112T170000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251112T193000 DTSTAMP:20260413T080426 CREATED:20251017T014102Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251017T032148Z UID:68029-1762966800-1762975800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Crafting Conversation: The Artists Edition DESCRIPTION:Dame Nellie Melba Celebration Performance \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 18\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n2:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n4:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$39.96 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Venue \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 An afternoon of song\, arias and duets…The BMI in partnership with Melba Opera Trust. Meet the 2025 Melba artists\, as they perform a repertoire that celebrates the Birthday of Dame Nellie Melba – program coming soon… \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Artists \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n SOPHIE HAMERBritish-Australian Sophie Hamer holds a Bachelor of Music (Classical Vocal Performance) from the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts. Her roles include Ino (Australian Premiere of Eccles’ Semele)\, Angelina (Trial by Jury)\, Mabel(The Pirates of Penzance)\, and The Dew Fairy (Hansel and Gretel). Sophie has appeared as the soprano soloist in the Australian premiere of Goodall’s Invictus: A Passion\, Messiah\,  Jauchzet Gott in allen Landen and in Enchanted Encounters – Songs of the Supernatural with West Australian Opera. She is the current recipient of The Amelia Joscelyne Memorial Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n AIDAN HODDERAidan Hodder holds a Master of Music Studies from Queensland Conservatorium\, Griffith University. Aidan made his professional debut in 2023 in State Opera South Australia’s G & S FEST\, singing John Wellington Wells (The Sorcerer). Recently Aidan performed as Samuel (The Pirates of Penzance) at Queensland Performing Arts Centre presented by Prospero Arts and directed Stuart Maunder AM. Aidan is an advocate for children’s education and currently works for the Brisbane-based educational entertainment company Dino Encounters. He is the current recipient of the John Wegner AO Opera Scholarship and the Max & Jill Schultz Opera Society Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n CHLOE JAMES Chloe James holds a Bachelor of Music (Classical Voice) and a Master of Music (Opera Performance) from the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music\, and she is an alumna of Opera Scholars Australia. Chloe’s performing credits include Hansel and Gretel\, The Magic Flute\, and The Old Maid and the Thief (Melbourne Conservatorium)\, as well as English Eccentrics\, Parrwang Lifts the Sky\, The Grumpiest Boy in the World and Il Mago di Oz (Victorian Opera). She is the current recipient of the Ruskin Opera Scholarship and the Jo Horgan & Peter Wetenhall Opera Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n SHAROLYN KIMMORLEY AM After studying at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music\, Sharolyn Kimmorley joined the Music Staff of The Australian Opera and has assisted in the preparation of a vast range of works with many distinguished singers and conductors. In 1985 she became Principal Répétiteur for The Australian Opera and in 1987 was appointed Head of Music Staff. From 1994 to 1999 she was the company’s Artistic Administrator\, following which she was Opera Australia’s Director of Music Administration until June 2003. Sharolyn Kimmorley is regarded as one of Australia’s finest vocal coaches and accompanists. She has recorded for ABC Classics\, taken part in chamber musicconcerts and accompanied some of the world’s most distinguished recitalists. In January 2009 Sharolyn became a member of the Order of Australia in recognition of her work as an accompanist and the nurturing and mentoring of emerging artists. Sharolyn is currently Artistic Manager and Artist Advisor to Melba Opera Trust and recently joined the board of Victorian Opera. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Program \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Chacun le saitfrom The Daughter of the Regiment by Gaetano DonizettiSophie Hamer \n \n Avant de quitter ces lieuxfrom Faust by Charles GounodAidan Hodder \n \n Faites-lui mes aveuxfrom Faust by Charles GounodChloe James \n \n Bei Männern\, welche Liebe fühlenfrom The Magic Flute by Wolfgang Amadeus MozartSophie Hamer and Aidan Hodder \n \n Depuis hier … Que fais-tu\, blanche tourterellefrom Romeo and Juliet by Charles GounodChloe James \n \n O vin dissipe la tristessefrom Hamlet by Ambroise ThomasAidan Hodder \n \n Lo! Here the gentle larkfrom The Comedy of Errors by Sir Henry BishopSophie Hamer \n \n Dôme épaisfrom Lakmé by Léo DelibesSophie Hamer and Chloe James \n \n Down in the forestfrom A Cycle of Life by Landon RonaldChloe James \n \n Chanson indouefrom Sadko by Nicolai Rimsky-KorsakovSophie Hamer \n \n Mattinataby Sir Paolo TostiAidan Hodder \n \n Goodbyeby Sir Paolo TostiSophie Hamer\, Chloe James and Aidan Hodder \n \n Associate Artist Sharolyn Kimmorley AM Melba Artists appear as part of the Ryman Healthcare Performance Program   \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Melba Opera Trust Melba Opera Trust\, a legacy of the visionary soprano Dame Nellie Melba\, delivers Australia’s leading development program for exceptional young opera singers and repetiteurs.  Nellie once said ‘in order to succeed in opera\, you have to engage in the business of singing. A beautiful voice is not enough.’ This is at the heart of our philosophy: our artists are trained to be more than a voice\, to be equipped with the skills they need to build sustainable careers.  The Melba Program\, a year-long scholarship funded program\, supports artists from around Australia through a bespoke course of artistic development\, mentoring in business\, professional and personal skill development\, and performance experience.  Following in Nellie’s footsteps\, many of Melba’s talented alumni are realising their dreams and performing in opera houses around the world.  Join us to hear these future stars! \n \n Includes A sumptuous Devonshire tea (scones are made to a tradional Victorian recipe – Amelia Cotterel) served on vintage Johnston Brothers china\, in the Minerva Space. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tickets $39.96 per person includes gst & booking fee. Tickets can also be purchased in the Library \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 This event supports the Australian Heritage Festival & The Ballarat Heritage Festivals URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/crafting-conversation-artists/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Art programs ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/square-promo-mgth.webp ORGANIZER;CN="Make Good Things Happen":MAILTO:angela@daltonbaker.com.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251112T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251112T200000 DTSTAMP:20260413T080427 CREATED:20250813T050947Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250813T051100Z UID:66973-1762974000-1762977600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Kadampa Meditation Series | How to solve our human problems DESCRIPTION:Dame Nellie Melba Celebration Performance \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 18\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n2:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n4:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$39.96 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Venue \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 An afternoon of song\, arias and duets…The BMI in partnership with Melba Opera Trust. Meet the 2025 Melba artists\, as they perform a repertoire that celebrates the Birthday of Dame Nellie Melba – program coming soon… \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Artists \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n SOPHIE HAMERBritish-Australian Sophie Hamer holds a Bachelor of Music (Classical Vocal Performance) from the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts. Her roles include Ino (Australian Premiere of Eccles’ Semele)\, Angelina (Trial by Jury)\, Mabel(The Pirates of Penzance)\, and The Dew Fairy (Hansel and Gretel). Sophie has appeared as the soprano soloist in the Australian premiere of Goodall’s Invictus: A Passion\, Messiah\,  Jauchzet Gott in allen Landen and in Enchanted Encounters – Songs of the Supernatural with West Australian Opera. She is the current recipient of The Amelia Joscelyne Memorial Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n AIDAN HODDERAidan Hodder holds a Master of Music Studies from Queensland Conservatorium\, Griffith University. Aidan made his professional debut in 2023 in State Opera South Australia’s G & S FEST\, singing John Wellington Wells (The Sorcerer). Recently Aidan performed as Samuel (The Pirates of Penzance) at Queensland Performing Arts Centre presented by Prospero Arts and directed Stuart Maunder AM. Aidan is an advocate for children’s education and currently works for the Brisbane-based educational entertainment company Dino Encounters. He is the current recipient of the John Wegner AO Opera Scholarship and the Max & Jill Schultz Opera Society Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n CHLOE JAMES Chloe James holds a Bachelor of Music (Classical Voice) and a Master of Music (Opera Performance) from the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music\, and she is an alumna of Opera Scholars Australia. Chloe’s performing credits include Hansel and Gretel\, The Magic Flute\, and The Old Maid and the Thief (Melbourne Conservatorium)\, as well as English Eccentrics\, Parrwang Lifts the Sky\, The Grumpiest Boy in the World and Il Mago di Oz (Victorian Opera). She is the current recipient of the Ruskin Opera Scholarship and the Jo Horgan & Peter Wetenhall Opera Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n SHAROLYN KIMMORLEY AM After studying at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music\, Sharolyn Kimmorley joined the Music Staff of The Australian Opera and has assisted in the preparation of a vast range of works with many distinguished singers and conductors. In 1985 she became Principal Répétiteur for The Australian Opera and in 1987 was appointed Head of Music Staff. From 1994 to 1999 she was the company’s Artistic Administrator\, following which she was Opera Australia’s Director of Music Administration until June 2003. Sharolyn Kimmorley is regarded as one of Australia’s finest vocal coaches and accompanists. She has recorded for ABC Classics\, taken part in chamber musicconcerts and accompanied some of the world’s most distinguished recitalists. In January 2009 Sharolyn became a member of the Order of Australia in recognition of her work as an accompanist and the nurturing and mentoring of emerging artists. Sharolyn is currently Artistic Manager and Artist Advisor to Melba Opera Trust and recently joined the board of Victorian Opera. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Program \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Chacun le saitfrom The Daughter of the Regiment by Gaetano DonizettiSophie Hamer \n \n Avant de quitter ces lieuxfrom Faust by Charles GounodAidan Hodder \n \n Faites-lui mes aveuxfrom Faust by Charles GounodChloe James \n \n Bei Männern\, welche Liebe fühlenfrom The Magic Flute by Wolfgang Amadeus MozartSophie Hamer and Aidan Hodder \n \n Depuis hier … Que fais-tu\, blanche tourterellefrom Romeo and Juliet by Charles GounodChloe James \n \n O vin dissipe la tristessefrom Hamlet by Ambroise ThomasAidan Hodder \n \n Lo! Here the gentle larkfrom The Comedy of Errors by Sir Henry BishopSophie Hamer \n \n Dôme épaisfrom Lakmé by Léo DelibesSophie Hamer and Chloe James \n \n Down in the forestfrom A Cycle of Life by Landon RonaldChloe James \n \n Chanson indouefrom Sadko by Nicolai Rimsky-KorsakovSophie Hamer \n \n Mattinataby Sir Paolo TostiAidan Hodder \n \n Goodbyeby Sir Paolo TostiSophie Hamer\, Chloe James and Aidan Hodder \n \n Associate Artist Sharolyn Kimmorley AM Melba Artists appear as part of the Ryman Healthcare Performance Program   \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Melba Opera Trust Melba Opera Trust\, a legacy of the visionary soprano Dame Nellie Melba\, delivers Australia’s leading development program for exceptional young opera singers and repetiteurs.  Nellie once said ‘in order to succeed in opera\, you have to engage in the business of singing. A beautiful voice is not enough.’ This is at the heart of our philosophy: our artists are trained to be more than a voice\, to be equipped with the skills they need to build sustainable careers.  The Melba Program\, a year-long scholarship funded program\, supports artists from around Australia through a bespoke course of artistic development\, mentoring in business\, professional and personal skill development\, and performance experience.  Following in Nellie’s footsteps\, many of Melba’s talented alumni are realising their dreams and performing in opera houses around the world.  Join us to hear these future stars! \n \n Includes A sumptuous Devonshire tea (scones are made to a tradional Victorian recipe – Amelia Cotterel) served on vintage Johnston Brothers china\, in the Minerva Space. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tickets $39.96 per person includes gst & booking fee. Tickets can also be purchased in the Library \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 This event supports the Australian Heritage Festival & The Ballarat Heritage Festivals URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/kadampa-meditation-series-12-november-25/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:kadampa ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/square-promo-human-poblems.webp ORGANIZER;CN="Kadampa Meditation":MAILTO:info@kadampa.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251113T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251113T210000 DTSTAMP:20260413T080427 CREATED:20250212T031341Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250321T110605Z UID:61989-1763062200-1763067600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Ballarat Film Society | ​Hammarskjöld: The Fight for Peace DESCRIPTION:Dame Nellie Melba Celebration Performance \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 18\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n2:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n4:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$39.96 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Venue \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 An afternoon of song\, arias and duets…The BMI in partnership with Melba Opera Trust. Meet the 2025 Melba artists\, as they perform a repertoire that celebrates the Birthday of Dame Nellie Melba – program coming soon… \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Artists \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n SOPHIE HAMERBritish-Australian Sophie Hamer holds a Bachelor of Music (Classical Vocal Performance) from the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts. Her roles include Ino (Australian Premiere of Eccles’ Semele)\, Angelina (Trial by Jury)\, Mabel(The Pirates of Penzance)\, and The Dew Fairy (Hansel and Gretel). Sophie has appeared as the soprano soloist in the Australian premiere of Goodall’s Invictus: A Passion\, Messiah\,  Jauchzet Gott in allen Landen and in Enchanted Encounters – Songs of the Supernatural with West Australian Opera. She is the current recipient of The Amelia Joscelyne Memorial Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n AIDAN HODDERAidan Hodder holds a Master of Music Studies from Queensland Conservatorium\, Griffith University. Aidan made his professional debut in 2023 in State Opera South Australia’s G & S FEST\, singing John Wellington Wells (The Sorcerer). Recently Aidan performed as Samuel (The Pirates of Penzance) at Queensland Performing Arts Centre presented by Prospero Arts and directed Stuart Maunder AM. Aidan is an advocate for children’s education and currently works for the Brisbane-based educational entertainment company Dino Encounters. He is the current recipient of the John Wegner AO Opera Scholarship and the Max & Jill Schultz Opera Society Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n CHLOE JAMES Chloe James holds a Bachelor of Music (Classical Voice) and a Master of Music (Opera Performance) from the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music\, and she is an alumna of Opera Scholars Australia. Chloe’s performing credits include Hansel and Gretel\, The Magic Flute\, and The Old Maid and the Thief (Melbourne Conservatorium)\, as well as English Eccentrics\, Parrwang Lifts the Sky\, The Grumpiest Boy in the World and Il Mago di Oz (Victorian Opera). She is the current recipient of the Ruskin Opera Scholarship and the Jo Horgan & Peter Wetenhall Opera Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n SHAROLYN KIMMORLEY AM After studying at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music\, Sharolyn Kimmorley joined the Music Staff of The Australian Opera and has assisted in the preparation of a vast range of works with many distinguished singers and conductors. In 1985 she became Principal Répétiteur for The Australian Opera and in 1987 was appointed Head of Music Staff. From 1994 to 1999 she was the company’s Artistic Administrator\, following which she was Opera Australia’s Director of Music Administration until June 2003. Sharolyn Kimmorley is regarded as one of Australia’s finest vocal coaches and accompanists. She has recorded for ABC Classics\, taken part in chamber musicconcerts and accompanied some of the world’s most distinguished recitalists. In January 2009 Sharolyn became a member of the Order of Australia in recognition of her work as an accompanist and the nurturing and mentoring of emerging artists. Sharolyn is currently Artistic Manager and Artist Advisor to Melba Opera Trust and recently joined the board of Victorian Opera. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Program \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Chacun le saitfrom The Daughter of the Regiment by Gaetano DonizettiSophie Hamer \n \n Avant de quitter ces lieuxfrom Faust by Charles GounodAidan Hodder \n \n Faites-lui mes aveuxfrom Faust by Charles GounodChloe James \n \n Bei Männern\, welche Liebe fühlenfrom The Magic Flute by Wolfgang Amadeus MozartSophie Hamer and Aidan Hodder \n \n Depuis hier … Que fais-tu\, blanche tourterellefrom Romeo and Juliet by Charles GounodChloe James \n \n O vin dissipe la tristessefrom Hamlet by Ambroise ThomasAidan Hodder \n \n Lo! Here the gentle larkfrom The Comedy of Errors by Sir Henry BishopSophie Hamer \n \n Dôme épaisfrom Lakmé by Léo DelibesSophie Hamer and Chloe James \n \n Down in the forestfrom A Cycle of Life by Landon RonaldChloe James \n \n Chanson indouefrom Sadko by Nicolai Rimsky-KorsakovSophie Hamer \n \n Mattinataby Sir Paolo TostiAidan Hodder \n \n Goodbyeby Sir Paolo TostiSophie Hamer\, Chloe James and Aidan Hodder \n \n Associate Artist Sharolyn Kimmorley AM Melba Artists appear as part of the Ryman Healthcare Performance Program   \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Melba Opera Trust Melba Opera Trust\, a legacy of the visionary soprano Dame Nellie Melba\, delivers Australia’s leading development program for exceptional young opera singers and repetiteurs.  Nellie once said ‘in order to succeed in opera\, you have to engage in the business of singing. A beautiful voice is not enough.’ This is at the heart of our philosophy: our artists are trained to be more than a voice\, to be equipped with the skills they need to build sustainable careers.  The Melba Program\, a year-long scholarship funded program\, supports artists from around Australia through a bespoke course of artistic development\, mentoring in business\, professional and personal skill development\, and performance experience.  Following in Nellie’s footsteps\, many of Melba’s talented alumni are realising their dreams and performing in opera houses around the world.  Join us to hear these future stars! \n \n Includes A sumptuous Devonshire tea (scones are made to a tradional Victorian recipe – Amelia Cotterel) served on vintage Johnston Brothers china\, in the Minerva Space. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tickets $39.96 per person includes gst & booking fee. Tickets can also be purchased in the Library \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 This event supports the Australian Heritage Festival & The Ballarat Heritage Festivals URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/bfs-hammarskjold/ 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-bfs3.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251115T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251115T200000 DTSTAMP:20260413T080427 CREATED:20250923T040314Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250923T052823Z UID:67502-1763233200-1763236800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Minerva's Secrets | Night Tour DESCRIPTION:Dame Nellie Melba Celebration Performance \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 18\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n2:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n4:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$39.96 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Venue \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 An afternoon of song\, arias and duets…The BMI in partnership with Melba Opera Trust. Meet the 2025 Melba artists\, as they perform a repertoire that celebrates the Birthday of Dame Nellie Melba – program coming soon… \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Artists \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n SOPHIE HAMERBritish-Australian Sophie Hamer holds a Bachelor of Music (Classical Vocal Performance) from the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts. Her roles include Ino (Australian Premiere of Eccles’ Semele)\, Angelina (Trial by Jury)\, Mabel(The Pirates of Penzance)\, and The Dew Fairy (Hansel and Gretel). Sophie has appeared as the soprano soloist in the Australian premiere of Goodall’s Invictus: A Passion\, Messiah\,  Jauchzet Gott in allen Landen and in Enchanted Encounters – Songs of the Supernatural with West Australian Opera. She is the current recipient of The Amelia Joscelyne Memorial Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n AIDAN HODDERAidan Hodder holds a Master of Music Studies from Queensland Conservatorium\, Griffith University. Aidan made his professional debut in 2023 in State Opera South Australia’s G & S FEST\, singing John Wellington Wells (The Sorcerer). Recently Aidan performed as Samuel (The Pirates of Penzance) at Queensland Performing Arts Centre presented by Prospero Arts and directed Stuart Maunder AM. Aidan is an advocate for children’s education and currently works for the Brisbane-based educational entertainment company Dino Encounters. He is the current recipient of the John Wegner AO Opera Scholarship and the Max & Jill Schultz Opera Society Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n CHLOE JAMES Chloe James holds a Bachelor of Music (Classical Voice) and a Master of Music (Opera Performance) from the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music\, and she is an alumna of Opera Scholars Australia. Chloe’s performing credits include Hansel and Gretel\, The Magic Flute\, and The Old Maid and the Thief (Melbourne Conservatorium)\, as well as English Eccentrics\, Parrwang Lifts the Sky\, The Grumpiest Boy in the World and Il Mago di Oz (Victorian Opera). She is the current recipient of the Ruskin Opera Scholarship and the Jo Horgan & Peter Wetenhall Opera Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n SHAROLYN KIMMORLEY AM After studying at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music\, Sharolyn Kimmorley joined the Music Staff of The Australian Opera and has assisted in the preparation of a vast range of works with many distinguished singers and conductors. In 1985 she became Principal Répétiteur for The Australian Opera and in 1987 was appointed Head of Music Staff. From 1994 to 1999 she was the company’s Artistic Administrator\, following which she was Opera Australia’s Director of Music Administration until June 2003. Sharolyn Kimmorley is regarded as one of Australia’s finest vocal coaches and accompanists. She has recorded for ABC Classics\, taken part in chamber musicconcerts and accompanied some of the world’s most distinguished recitalists. In January 2009 Sharolyn became a member of the Order of Australia in recognition of her work as an accompanist and the nurturing and mentoring of emerging artists. Sharolyn is currently Artistic Manager and Artist Advisor to Melba Opera Trust and recently joined the board of Victorian Opera. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Program \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Chacun le saitfrom The Daughter of the Regiment by Gaetano DonizettiSophie Hamer \n \n Avant de quitter ces lieuxfrom Faust by Charles GounodAidan Hodder \n \n Faites-lui mes aveuxfrom Faust by Charles GounodChloe James \n \n Bei Männern\, welche Liebe fühlenfrom The Magic Flute by Wolfgang Amadeus MozartSophie Hamer and Aidan Hodder \n \n Depuis hier … Que fais-tu\, blanche tourterellefrom Romeo and Juliet by Charles GounodChloe James \n \n O vin dissipe la tristessefrom Hamlet by Ambroise ThomasAidan Hodder \n \n Lo! Here the gentle larkfrom The Comedy of Errors by Sir Henry BishopSophie Hamer \n \n Dôme épaisfrom Lakmé by Léo DelibesSophie Hamer and Chloe James \n \n Down in the forestfrom A Cycle of Life by Landon RonaldChloe James \n \n Chanson indouefrom Sadko by Nicolai Rimsky-KorsakovSophie Hamer \n \n Mattinataby Sir Paolo TostiAidan Hodder \n \n Goodbyeby Sir Paolo TostiSophie Hamer\, Chloe James and Aidan Hodder \n \n Associate Artist Sharolyn Kimmorley AM Melba Artists appear as part of the Ryman Healthcare Performance Program   \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Melba Opera Trust Melba Opera Trust\, a legacy of the visionary soprano Dame Nellie Melba\, delivers Australia’s leading development program for exceptional young opera singers and repetiteurs.  Nellie once said ‘in order to succeed in opera\, you have to engage in the business of singing. A beautiful voice is not enough.’ This is at the heart of our philosophy: our artists are trained to be more than a voice\, to be equipped with the skills they need to build sustainable careers.  The Melba Program\, a year-long scholarship funded program\, supports artists from around Australia through a bespoke course of artistic development\, mentoring in business\, professional and personal skill development\, and performance experience.  Following in Nellie’s footsteps\, many of Melba’s talented alumni are realising their dreams and performing in opera houses around the world.  Join us to hear these future stars! \n \n Includes A sumptuous Devonshire tea (scones are made to a tradional Victorian recipe – Amelia Cotterel) served on vintage Johnston Brothers china\, in the Minerva Space. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tickets $39.96 per person includes gst & booking fee. Tickets can also be purchased in the Library \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 This event supports the Australian Heritage Festival & The Ballarat Heritage Festivals URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/minervas-secrets-night-tours-15-nov-25/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Fundraiser,Important Dates,Night Tours,Tours ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/received_908662326866361-e1708918930337.jpeg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251115T210000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251115T220000 DTSTAMP:20260413T080427 CREATED:20250923T051356Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250923T052637Z UID:67555-1763240400-1763244000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Minerva's Secrets | Night Tour DESCRIPTION:Dame Nellie Melba Celebration Performance \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 18\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n2:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n4:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$39.96 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Venue \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 An afternoon of song\, arias and duets…The BMI in partnership with Melba Opera Trust. Meet the 2025 Melba artists\, as they perform a repertoire that celebrates the Birthday of Dame Nellie Melba – program coming soon… \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Artists \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n SOPHIE HAMERBritish-Australian Sophie Hamer holds a Bachelor of Music (Classical Vocal Performance) from the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts. Her roles include Ino (Australian Premiere of Eccles’ Semele)\, Angelina (Trial by Jury)\, Mabel(The Pirates of Penzance)\, and The Dew Fairy (Hansel and Gretel). Sophie has appeared as the soprano soloist in the Australian premiere of Goodall’s Invictus: A Passion\, Messiah\,  Jauchzet Gott in allen Landen and in Enchanted Encounters – Songs of the Supernatural with West Australian Opera. She is the current recipient of The Amelia Joscelyne Memorial Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n AIDAN HODDERAidan Hodder holds a Master of Music Studies from Queensland Conservatorium\, Griffith University. Aidan made his professional debut in 2023 in State Opera South Australia’s G & S FEST\, singing John Wellington Wells (The Sorcerer). Recently Aidan performed as Samuel (The Pirates of Penzance) at Queensland Performing Arts Centre presented by Prospero Arts and directed Stuart Maunder AM. Aidan is an advocate for children’s education and currently works for the Brisbane-based educational entertainment company Dino Encounters. He is the current recipient of the John Wegner AO Opera Scholarship and the Max & Jill Schultz Opera Society Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n CHLOE JAMES Chloe James holds a Bachelor of Music (Classical Voice) and a Master of Music (Opera Performance) from the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music\, and she is an alumna of Opera Scholars Australia. Chloe’s performing credits include Hansel and Gretel\, The Magic Flute\, and The Old Maid and the Thief (Melbourne Conservatorium)\, as well as English Eccentrics\, Parrwang Lifts the Sky\, The Grumpiest Boy in the World and Il Mago di Oz (Victorian Opera). She is the current recipient of the Ruskin Opera Scholarship and the Jo Horgan & Peter Wetenhall Opera Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n SHAROLYN KIMMORLEY AM After studying at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music\, Sharolyn Kimmorley joined the Music Staff of The Australian Opera and has assisted in the preparation of a vast range of works with many distinguished singers and conductors. In 1985 she became Principal Répétiteur for The Australian Opera and in 1987 was appointed Head of Music Staff. From 1994 to 1999 she was the company’s Artistic Administrator\, following which she was Opera Australia’s Director of Music Administration until June 2003. Sharolyn Kimmorley is regarded as one of Australia’s finest vocal coaches and accompanists. She has recorded for ABC Classics\, taken part in chamber musicconcerts and accompanied some of the world’s most distinguished recitalists. In January 2009 Sharolyn became a member of the Order of Australia in recognition of her work as an accompanist and the nurturing and mentoring of emerging artists. Sharolyn is currently Artistic Manager and Artist Advisor to Melba Opera Trust and recently joined the board of Victorian Opera. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Program \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Chacun le saitfrom The Daughter of the Regiment by Gaetano DonizettiSophie Hamer \n \n Avant de quitter ces lieuxfrom Faust by Charles GounodAidan Hodder \n \n Faites-lui mes aveuxfrom Faust by Charles GounodChloe James \n \n Bei Männern\, welche Liebe fühlenfrom The Magic Flute by Wolfgang Amadeus MozartSophie Hamer and Aidan Hodder \n \n Depuis hier … Que fais-tu\, blanche tourterellefrom Romeo and Juliet by Charles GounodChloe James \n \n O vin dissipe la tristessefrom Hamlet by Ambroise ThomasAidan Hodder \n \n Lo! Here the gentle larkfrom The Comedy of Errors by Sir Henry BishopSophie Hamer \n \n Dôme épaisfrom Lakmé by Léo DelibesSophie Hamer and Chloe James \n \n Down in the forestfrom A Cycle of Life by Landon RonaldChloe James \n \n Chanson indouefrom Sadko by Nicolai Rimsky-KorsakovSophie Hamer \n \n Mattinataby Sir Paolo TostiAidan Hodder \n \n Goodbyeby Sir Paolo TostiSophie Hamer\, Chloe James and Aidan Hodder \n \n Associate Artist Sharolyn Kimmorley AM Melba Artists appear as part of the Ryman Healthcare Performance Program   \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Melba Opera Trust Melba Opera Trust\, a legacy of the visionary soprano Dame Nellie Melba\, delivers Australia’s leading development program for exceptional young opera singers and repetiteurs.  Nellie once said ‘in order to succeed in opera\, you have to engage in the business of singing. A beautiful voice is not enough.’ This is at the heart of our philosophy: our artists are trained to be more than a voice\, to be equipped with the skills they need to build sustainable careers.  The Melba Program\, a year-long scholarship funded program\, supports artists from around Australia through a bespoke course of artistic development\, mentoring in business\, professional and personal skill development\, and performance experience.  Following in Nellie’s footsteps\, many of Melba’s talented alumni are realising their dreams and performing in opera houses around the world.  Join us to hear these future stars! \n \n Includes A sumptuous Devonshire tea (scones are made to a tradional Victorian recipe – Amelia Cotterel) served on vintage Johnston Brothers china\, in the Minerva Space. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tickets $39.96 per person includes gst & booking fee. Tickets can also be purchased in the Library \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 This event supports the Australian Heritage Festival & The Ballarat Heritage Festivals URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/minervas-secrets-night-tours-15-nov-25-2/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Fundraiser,Important Dates,Night Tours,Tours ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/received_265285705882698-e1708919200874.jpeg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251118T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251118T193000 DTSTAMP:20260413T080427 CREATED:20250917T050616Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250930T062718Z UID:67363-1763488800-1763494200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with Margaret Hickey DESCRIPTION:Dame Nellie Melba Celebration Performance \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 18\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n2:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n4:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$39.96 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Venue \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 An afternoon of song\, arias and duets…The BMI in partnership with Melba Opera Trust. Meet the 2025 Melba artists\, as they perform a repertoire that celebrates the Birthday of Dame Nellie Melba – program coming soon… \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Artists \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n SOPHIE HAMERBritish-Australian Sophie Hamer holds a Bachelor of Music (Classical Vocal Performance) from the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts. Her roles include Ino (Australian Premiere of Eccles’ Semele)\, Angelina (Trial by Jury)\, Mabel(The Pirates of Penzance)\, and The Dew Fairy (Hansel and Gretel). Sophie has appeared as the soprano soloist in the Australian premiere of Goodall’s Invictus: A Passion\, Messiah\,  Jauchzet Gott in allen Landen and in Enchanted Encounters – Songs of the Supernatural with West Australian Opera. She is the current recipient of The Amelia Joscelyne Memorial Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n AIDAN HODDERAidan Hodder holds a Master of Music Studies from Queensland Conservatorium\, Griffith University. Aidan made his professional debut in 2023 in State Opera South Australia’s G & S FEST\, singing John Wellington Wells (The Sorcerer). Recently Aidan performed as Samuel (The Pirates of Penzance) at Queensland Performing Arts Centre presented by Prospero Arts and directed Stuart Maunder AM. Aidan is an advocate for children’s education and currently works for the Brisbane-based educational entertainment company Dino Encounters. He is the current recipient of the John Wegner AO Opera Scholarship and the Max & Jill Schultz Opera Society Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n CHLOE JAMES Chloe James holds a Bachelor of Music (Classical Voice) and a Master of Music (Opera Performance) from the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music\, and she is an alumna of Opera Scholars Australia. Chloe’s performing credits include Hansel and Gretel\, The Magic Flute\, and The Old Maid and the Thief (Melbourne Conservatorium)\, as well as English Eccentrics\, Parrwang Lifts the Sky\, The Grumpiest Boy in the World and Il Mago di Oz (Victorian Opera). She is the current recipient of the Ruskin Opera Scholarship and the Jo Horgan & Peter Wetenhall Opera Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n SHAROLYN KIMMORLEY AM After studying at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music\, Sharolyn Kimmorley joined the Music Staff of The Australian Opera and has assisted in the preparation of a vast range of works with many distinguished singers and conductors. In 1985 she became Principal Répétiteur for The Australian Opera and in 1987 was appointed Head of Music Staff. From 1994 to 1999 she was the company’s Artistic Administrator\, following which she was Opera Australia’s Director of Music Administration until June 2003. Sharolyn Kimmorley is regarded as one of Australia’s finest vocal coaches and accompanists. She has recorded for ABC Classics\, taken part in chamber musicconcerts and accompanied some of the world’s most distinguished recitalists. In January 2009 Sharolyn became a member of the Order of Australia in recognition of her work as an accompanist and the nurturing and mentoring of emerging artists. Sharolyn is currently Artistic Manager and Artist Advisor to Melba Opera Trust and recently joined the board of Victorian Opera. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Program \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Chacun le saitfrom The Daughter of the Regiment by Gaetano DonizettiSophie Hamer \n \n Avant de quitter ces lieuxfrom Faust by Charles GounodAidan Hodder \n \n Faites-lui mes aveuxfrom Faust by Charles GounodChloe James \n \n Bei Männern\, welche Liebe fühlenfrom The Magic Flute by Wolfgang Amadeus MozartSophie Hamer and Aidan Hodder \n \n Depuis hier … Que fais-tu\, blanche tourterellefrom Romeo and Juliet by Charles GounodChloe James \n \n O vin dissipe la tristessefrom Hamlet by Ambroise ThomasAidan Hodder \n \n Lo! Here the gentle larkfrom The Comedy of Errors by Sir Henry BishopSophie Hamer \n \n Dôme épaisfrom Lakmé by Léo DelibesSophie Hamer and Chloe James \n \n Down in the forestfrom A Cycle of Life by Landon RonaldChloe James \n \n Chanson indouefrom Sadko by Nicolai Rimsky-KorsakovSophie Hamer \n \n Mattinataby Sir Paolo TostiAidan Hodder \n \n Goodbyeby Sir Paolo TostiSophie Hamer\, Chloe James and Aidan Hodder \n \n Associate Artist Sharolyn Kimmorley AM Melba Artists appear as part of the Ryman Healthcare Performance Program   \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Melba Opera Trust Melba Opera Trust\, a legacy of the visionary soprano Dame Nellie Melba\, delivers Australia’s leading development program for exceptional young opera singers and repetiteurs.  Nellie once said ‘in order to succeed in opera\, you have to engage in the business of singing. A beautiful voice is not enough.’ This is at the heart of our philosophy: our artists are trained to be more than a voice\, to be equipped with the skills they need to build sustainable careers.  The Melba Program\, a year-long scholarship funded program\, supports artists from around Australia through a bespoke course of artistic development\, mentoring in business\, professional and personal skill development\, and performance experience.  Following in Nellie’s footsteps\, many of Melba’s talented alumni are realising their dreams and performing in opera houses around the world.  Join us to hear these future stars! \n \n Includes A sumptuous Devonshire tea (scones are made to a tradional Victorian recipe – Amelia Cotterel) served on vintage Johnston Brothers china\, in the Minerva Space. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tickets $39.96 per person includes gst & booking fee. Tickets can also be purchased in the Library \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 This event supports the Australian Heritage Festival & The Ballarat Heritage Festivals URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/margaret-hickey-25/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Fundraiser,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/margaret-hickey-sq-promo.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251119T173000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251119T183000 DTSTAMP:20260413T080427 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:Dame Nellie Melba Celebration Performance \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 18\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n2:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n4:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$39.96 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Venue \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 An afternoon of song\, arias and duets…The BMI in partnership with Melba Opera Trust. Meet the 2025 Melba artists\, as they perform a repertoire that celebrates the Birthday of Dame Nellie Melba – program coming soon… \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Artists \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n SOPHIE HAMERBritish-Australian Sophie Hamer holds a Bachelor of Music (Classical Vocal Performance) from the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts. Her roles include Ino (Australian Premiere of Eccles’ Semele)\, Angelina (Trial by Jury)\, Mabel(The Pirates of Penzance)\, and The Dew Fairy (Hansel and Gretel). Sophie has appeared as the soprano soloist in the Australian premiere of Goodall’s Invictus: A Passion\, Messiah\,  Jauchzet Gott in allen Landen and in Enchanted Encounters – Songs of the Supernatural with West Australian Opera. She is the current recipient of The Amelia Joscelyne Memorial Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n AIDAN HODDERAidan Hodder holds a Master of Music Studies from Queensland Conservatorium\, Griffith University. Aidan made his professional debut in 2023 in State Opera South Australia’s G & S FEST\, singing John Wellington Wells (The Sorcerer). Recently Aidan performed as Samuel (The Pirates of Penzance) at Queensland Performing Arts Centre presented by Prospero Arts and directed Stuart Maunder AM. Aidan is an advocate for children’s education and currently works for the Brisbane-based educational entertainment company Dino Encounters. He is the current recipient of the John Wegner AO Opera Scholarship and the Max & Jill Schultz Opera Society Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n CHLOE JAMES Chloe James holds a Bachelor of Music (Classical Voice) and a Master of Music (Opera Performance) from the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music\, and she is an alumna of Opera Scholars Australia. Chloe’s performing credits include Hansel and Gretel\, The Magic Flute\, and The Old Maid and the Thief (Melbourne Conservatorium)\, as well as English Eccentrics\, Parrwang Lifts the Sky\, The Grumpiest Boy in the World and Il Mago di Oz (Victorian Opera). She is the current recipient of the Ruskin Opera Scholarship and the Jo Horgan & Peter Wetenhall Opera Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n SHAROLYN KIMMORLEY AM After studying at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music\, Sharolyn Kimmorley joined the Music Staff of The Australian Opera and has assisted in the preparation of a vast range of works with many distinguished singers and conductors. In 1985 she became Principal Répétiteur for The Australian Opera and in 1987 was appointed Head of Music Staff. From 1994 to 1999 she was the company’s Artistic Administrator\, following which she was Opera Australia’s Director of Music Administration until June 2003. Sharolyn Kimmorley is regarded as one of Australia’s finest vocal coaches and accompanists. She has recorded for ABC Classics\, taken part in chamber musicconcerts and accompanied some of the world’s most distinguished recitalists. In January 2009 Sharolyn became a member of the Order of Australia in recognition of her work as an accompanist and the nurturing and mentoring of emerging artists. Sharolyn is currently Artistic Manager and Artist Advisor to Melba Opera Trust and recently joined the board of Victorian Opera. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Program \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Chacun le saitfrom The Daughter of the Regiment by Gaetano DonizettiSophie Hamer \n \n Avant de quitter ces lieuxfrom Faust by Charles GounodAidan Hodder \n \n Faites-lui mes aveuxfrom Faust by Charles GounodChloe James \n \n Bei Männern\, welche Liebe fühlenfrom The Magic Flute by Wolfgang Amadeus MozartSophie Hamer and Aidan Hodder \n \n Depuis hier … Que fais-tu\, blanche tourterellefrom Romeo and Juliet by Charles GounodChloe James \n \n O vin dissipe la tristessefrom Hamlet by Ambroise ThomasAidan Hodder \n \n Lo! Here the gentle larkfrom The Comedy of Errors by Sir Henry BishopSophie Hamer \n \n Dôme épaisfrom Lakmé by Léo DelibesSophie Hamer and Chloe James \n \n Down in the forestfrom A Cycle of Life by Landon RonaldChloe James \n \n Chanson indouefrom Sadko by Nicolai Rimsky-KorsakovSophie Hamer \n \n Mattinataby Sir Paolo TostiAidan Hodder \n \n Goodbyeby Sir Paolo TostiSophie Hamer\, Chloe James and Aidan Hodder \n \n Associate Artist Sharolyn Kimmorley AM Melba Artists appear as part of the Ryman Healthcare Performance Program   \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Melba Opera Trust Melba Opera Trust\, a legacy of the visionary soprano Dame Nellie Melba\, delivers Australia’s leading development program for exceptional young opera singers and repetiteurs.  Nellie once said ‘in order to succeed in opera\, you have to engage in the business of singing. A beautiful voice is not enough.’ This is at the heart of our philosophy: our artists are trained to be more than a voice\, to be equipped with the skills they need to build sustainable careers.  The Melba Program\, a year-long scholarship funded program\, supports artists from around Australia through a bespoke course of artistic development\, mentoring in business\, professional and personal skill development\, and performance experience.  Following in Nellie’s footsteps\, many of Melba’s talented alumni are realising their dreams and performing in opera houses around the world.  Join us to hear these future stars! \n \n Includes A sumptuous Devonshire tea (scones are made to a tradional Victorian recipe – Amelia Cotterel) served on vintage Johnston Brothers china\, in the Minerva Space. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tickets $39.96 per person includes gst & booking fee. Tickets can also be purchased in the Library \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 This event supports the Australian Heritage Festival & The Ballarat Heritage Festivals URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/her-majestys-reinvention/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Fundraiser,Important Dates,Members,Talk,Twilight Talks ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/square-promo-2025-her-majestys-final.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251119T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251119T200000 DTSTAMP:20260413T080427 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:Dame Nellie Melba Celebration Performance \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 18\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n2:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n4:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$39.96 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Venue \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 An afternoon of song\, arias and duets…The BMI in partnership with Melba Opera Trust. Meet the 2025 Melba artists\, as they perform a repertoire that celebrates the Birthday of Dame Nellie Melba – program coming soon… \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Artists \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n SOPHIE HAMERBritish-Australian Sophie Hamer holds a Bachelor of Music (Classical Vocal Performance) from the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts. Her roles include Ino (Australian Premiere of Eccles’ Semele)\, Angelina (Trial by Jury)\, Mabel(The Pirates of Penzance)\, and The Dew Fairy (Hansel and Gretel). Sophie has appeared as the soprano soloist in the Australian premiere of Goodall’s Invictus: A Passion\, Messiah\,  Jauchzet Gott in allen Landen and in Enchanted Encounters – Songs of the Supernatural with West Australian Opera. She is the current recipient of The Amelia Joscelyne Memorial Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n AIDAN HODDERAidan Hodder holds a Master of Music Studies from Queensland Conservatorium\, Griffith University. Aidan made his professional debut in 2023 in State Opera South Australia’s G & S FEST\, singing John Wellington Wells (The Sorcerer). Recently Aidan performed as Samuel (The Pirates of Penzance) at Queensland Performing Arts Centre presented by Prospero Arts and directed Stuart Maunder AM. Aidan is an advocate for children’s education and currently works for the Brisbane-based educational entertainment company Dino Encounters. He is the current recipient of the John Wegner AO Opera Scholarship and the Max & Jill Schultz Opera Society Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n CHLOE JAMES Chloe James holds a Bachelor of Music (Classical Voice) and a Master of Music (Opera Performance) from the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music\, and she is an alumna of Opera Scholars Australia. Chloe’s performing credits include Hansel and Gretel\, The Magic Flute\, and The Old Maid and the Thief (Melbourne Conservatorium)\, as well as English Eccentrics\, Parrwang Lifts the Sky\, The Grumpiest Boy in the World and Il Mago di Oz (Victorian Opera). She is the current recipient of the Ruskin Opera Scholarship and the Jo Horgan & Peter Wetenhall Opera Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n SHAROLYN KIMMORLEY AM After studying at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music\, Sharolyn Kimmorley joined the Music Staff of The Australian Opera and has assisted in the preparation of a vast range of works with many distinguished singers and conductors. In 1985 she became Principal Répétiteur for The Australian Opera and in 1987 was appointed Head of Music Staff. From 1994 to 1999 she was the company’s Artistic Administrator\, following which she was Opera Australia’s Director of Music Administration until June 2003. Sharolyn Kimmorley is regarded as one of Australia’s finest vocal coaches and accompanists. She has recorded for ABC Classics\, taken part in chamber musicconcerts and accompanied some of the world’s most distinguished recitalists. In January 2009 Sharolyn became a member of the Order of Australia in recognition of her work as an accompanist and the nurturing and mentoring of emerging artists. Sharolyn is currently Artistic Manager and Artist Advisor to Melba Opera Trust and recently joined the board of Victorian Opera. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Program \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Chacun le saitfrom The Daughter of the Regiment by Gaetano DonizettiSophie Hamer \n \n Avant de quitter ces lieuxfrom Faust by Charles GounodAidan Hodder \n \n Faites-lui mes aveuxfrom Faust by Charles GounodChloe James \n \n Bei Männern\, welche Liebe fühlenfrom The Magic Flute by Wolfgang Amadeus MozartSophie Hamer and Aidan Hodder \n \n Depuis hier … Que fais-tu\, blanche tourterellefrom Romeo and Juliet by Charles GounodChloe James \n \n O vin dissipe la tristessefrom Hamlet by Ambroise ThomasAidan Hodder \n \n Lo! Here the gentle larkfrom The Comedy of Errors by Sir Henry BishopSophie Hamer \n \n Dôme épaisfrom Lakmé by Léo DelibesSophie Hamer and Chloe James \n \n Down in the forestfrom A Cycle of Life by Landon RonaldChloe James \n \n Chanson indouefrom Sadko by Nicolai Rimsky-KorsakovSophie Hamer \n \n Mattinataby Sir Paolo TostiAidan Hodder \n \n Goodbyeby Sir Paolo TostiSophie Hamer\, Chloe James and Aidan Hodder \n \n Associate Artist Sharolyn Kimmorley AM Melba Artists appear as part of the Ryman Healthcare Performance Program   \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Melba Opera Trust Melba Opera Trust\, a legacy of the visionary soprano Dame Nellie Melba\, delivers Australia’s leading development program for exceptional young opera singers and repetiteurs.  Nellie once said ‘in order to succeed in opera\, you have to engage in the business of singing. A beautiful voice is not enough.’ This is at the heart of our philosophy: our artists are trained to be more than a voice\, to be equipped with the skills they need to build sustainable careers.  The Melba Program\, a year-long scholarship funded program\, supports artists from around Australia through a bespoke course of artistic development\, mentoring in business\, professional and personal skill development\, and performance experience.  Following in Nellie’s footsteps\, many of Melba’s talented alumni are realising their dreams and performing in opera houses around the world.  Join us to hear these future stars! \n \n Includes A sumptuous Devonshire tea (scones are made to a tradional Victorian recipe – Amelia Cotterel) served on vintage Johnston Brothers china\, in the Minerva Space. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tickets $39.96 per person includes gst & booking fee. Tickets can also be purchased in the Library \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 This event supports the Australian Heritage Festival & The Ballarat Heritage Festivals 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:20251120T183000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251120T200000 DTSTAMP:20260413T080427 CREATED:20251110T031233Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251110T031636Z UID:68444-1763663400-1763668800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:An Evening with Peter FitzSimons AM DESCRIPTION:Dame Nellie Melba Celebration Performance \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 18\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n2:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n4:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$39.96 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Venue \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 An afternoon of song\, arias and duets…The BMI in partnership with Melba Opera Trust. Meet the 2025 Melba artists\, as they perform a repertoire that celebrates the Birthday of Dame Nellie Melba – program coming soon… \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Artists \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n SOPHIE HAMERBritish-Australian Sophie Hamer holds a Bachelor of Music (Classical Vocal Performance) from the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts. Her roles include Ino (Australian Premiere of Eccles’ Semele)\, Angelina (Trial by Jury)\, Mabel(The Pirates of Penzance)\, and The Dew Fairy (Hansel and Gretel). Sophie has appeared as the soprano soloist in the Australian premiere of Goodall’s Invictus: A Passion\, Messiah\,  Jauchzet Gott in allen Landen and in Enchanted Encounters – Songs of the Supernatural with West Australian Opera. She is the current recipient of The Amelia Joscelyne Memorial Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n AIDAN HODDERAidan Hodder holds a Master of Music Studies from Queensland Conservatorium\, Griffith University. Aidan made his professional debut in 2023 in State Opera South Australia’s G & S FEST\, singing John Wellington Wells (The Sorcerer). Recently Aidan performed as Samuel (The Pirates of Penzance) at Queensland Performing Arts Centre presented by Prospero Arts and directed Stuart Maunder AM. Aidan is an advocate for children’s education and currently works for the Brisbane-based educational entertainment company Dino Encounters. He is the current recipient of the John Wegner AO Opera Scholarship and the Max & Jill Schultz Opera Society Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n CHLOE JAMES Chloe James holds a Bachelor of Music (Classical Voice) and a Master of Music (Opera Performance) from the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music\, and she is an alumna of Opera Scholars Australia. Chloe’s performing credits include Hansel and Gretel\, The Magic Flute\, and The Old Maid and the Thief (Melbourne Conservatorium)\, as well as English Eccentrics\, Parrwang Lifts the Sky\, The Grumpiest Boy in the World and Il Mago di Oz (Victorian Opera). She is the current recipient of the Ruskin Opera Scholarship and the Jo Horgan & Peter Wetenhall Opera Scholarship with Melba Opera Trust. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n SHAROLYN KIMMORLEY AM After studying at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music\, Sharolyn Kimmorley joined the Music Staff of The Australian Opera and has assisted in the preparation of a vast range of works with many distinguished singers and conductors. In 1985 she became Principal Répétiteur for The Australian Opera and in 1987 was appointed Head of Music Staff. From 1994 to 1999 she was the company’s Artistic Administrator\, following which she was Opera Australia’s Director of Music Administration until June 2003. Sharolyn Kimmorley is regarded as one of Australia’s finest vocal coaches and accompanists. She has recorded for ABC Classics\, taken part in chamber musicconcerts and accompanied some of the world’s most distinguished recitalists. In January 2009 Sharolyn became a member of the Order of Australia in recognition of her work as an accompanist and the nurturing and mentoring of emerging artists. Sharolyn is currently Artistic Manager and Artist Advisor to Melba Opera Trust and recently joined the board of Victorian Opera. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Program \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Chacun le saitfrom The Daughter of the Regiment by Gaetano DonizettiSophie Hamer \n \n Avant de quitter ces lieuxfrom Faust by Charles GounodAidan Hodder \n \n Faites-lui mes aveuxfrom Faust by Charles GounodChloe James \n \n Bei Männern\, welche Liebe fühlenfrom The Magic Flute by Wolfgang Amadeus MozartSophie Hamer and Aidan Hodder \n \n Depuis hier … Que fais-tu\, blanche tourterellefrom Romeo and Juliet by Charles GounodChloe James \n \n O vin dissipe la tristessefrom Hamlet by Ambroise ThomasAidan Hodder \n \n Lo! Here the gentle larkfrom The Comedy of Errors by Sir Henry BishopSophie Hamer \n \n Dôme épaisfrom Lakmé by Léo DelibesSophie Hamer and Chloe James \n \n Down in the forestfrom A Cycle of Life by Landon RonaldChloe James \n \n Chanson indouefrom Sadko by Nicolai Rimsky-KorsakovSophie Hamer \n \n Mattinataby Sir Paolo TostiAidan Hodder \n \n Goodbyeby Sir Paolo TostiSophie Hamer\, Chloe James and Aidan Hodder \n \n Associate Artist Sharolyn Kimmorley AM Melba Artists appear as part of the Ryman Healthcare Performance Program   \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Melba Opera Trust Melba Opera Trust\, a legacy of the visionary soprano Dame Nellie Melba\, delivers Australia’s leading development program for exceptional young opera singers and repetiteurs.  Nellie once said ‘in order to succeed in opera\, you have to engage in the business of singing. A beautiful voice is not enough.’ This is at the heart of our philosophy: our artists are trained to be more than a voice\, to be equipped with the skills they need to build sustainable careers.  The Melba Program\, a year-long scholarship funded program\, supports artists from around Australia through a bespoke course of artistic development\, mentoring in business\, professional and personal skill development\, and performance experience.  Following in Nellie’s footsteps\, many of Melba’s talented alumni are realising their dreams and performing in opera houses around the world.  Join us to hear these future stars! \n \n Includes A sumptuous Devonshire tea (scones are made to a tradional Victorian recipe – Amelia Cotterel) served on vintage Johnston Brothers china\, in the Minerva Space. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tickets $39.96 per person includes gst & booking fee. Tickets can also be purchased in the Library \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 This event supports the Australian Heritage Festival & The Ballarat Heritage Festivals 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 END:VCALENDAR