BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute - ECPv6.15.20//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:Australia/Melbourne BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+1100 TZOFFSETTO:+1000 TZNAME:AEST DTSTART:20240406T160000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+1000 TZOFFSETTO:+1100 TZNAME:AEDT DTSTART:20241005T160000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+1100 TZOFFSETTO:+1000 TZNAME:AEST DTSTART:20250405T160000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+1000 TZOFFSETTO:+1100 TZNAME:AEDT DTSTART:20251004T160000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+1100 TZOFFSETTO:+1000 TZNAME:AEST DTSTART:20260404T160000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+1000 TZOFFSETTO:+1100 TZNAME:AEDT DTSTART:20261003T160000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+1100 TZOFFSETTO:+1000 TZNAME:AEST DTSTART:20270403T160000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+1000 TZOFFSETTO:+1100 TZNAME:AEDT DTSTART:20271002T160000 END:DAYLIGHT END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251105T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251105T200000 DTSTAMP:20260413T033217 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:20260413T033217 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:20260413T033217 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:20260413T033217 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:20260413T033217 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:20260413T033217 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:20260413T033217 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:20260413T033217 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:20260413T033217 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:20260413T033217 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:20260413T033217 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:20260413T033217 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 BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251121T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251121T210000 DTSTAMP:20260413T033217 CREATED:20250917T004106Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251110T233455Z UID:67335-1763753400-1763758800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Ben Knight: The Parent Teacher Interview | Show now SOLD OUT 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/ben-knight-parent-teacher/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Comedy ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/ben-knight-sq-promo.webp ORGANIZER;CN="KEG Touring":MAILTO:Contact@kegtouring.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251122T100000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251123T160000 DTSTAMP:20260413T033218 CREATED:20240822T062240Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251120T012503Z UID:58498-1763805600-1763913600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Open Garden & Devonshire Tea - BMI Fundraiser | Errard Hall 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/open-garden-fundraiser-2025/ LOCATION:Errard Hall\, Errard Street North\, Ballarat Central\, City of Ballarat\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Fundraiser,Important Dates,Members,Urban Agriculture Month ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/square-promo-errard-hall.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251122T184500 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251122T223000 DTSTAMP:20260413T033218 CREATED:20251017T035401Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251110T042444Z UID:68049-1763837100-1763850600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Small Things 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/small-things/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Live Music ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/sq-promo.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251126T173000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251126T183000 DTSTAMP:20260413T033218 CREATED:20250728T055539Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251110T233614Z UID:66413-1764178200-1764181800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Twilight Talks 2025\, Season 5\, Recent Years | Ballarat Arts Foundation: 25 Years Old\, Presented by Paula Nicholson DESCRIPTION: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-arts-foundation/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Fundraiser,Important Dates,Members,Talk,Twilight Talks ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/square-promo-2025-ballarat-arts-foundation.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251126T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251126T200000 DTSTAMP:20260413T033218 CREATED:20250917T031231Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250917T031337Z UID:67356-1764183600-1764187200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Kadampa Meditation Series | Meditations on the Mind: How to Create Mental Space DESCRIPTION: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-26-nov-2025/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:kadampa ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Med_on_mind_Sq.webp ORGANIZER;CN="Kadampa Meditation":MAILTO:info@kadampa.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251128T200000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251128T213000 DTSTAMP:20260413T033218 CREATED:20250408T004608Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250813T031528Z UID:64310-1764360000-1764365400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Akmal | Live Comedy at the BMI 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/akmal/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Comedy ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/promo-square-akmal.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251129T200000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251129T213000 DTSTAMP:20260413T033218 CREATED:20250714T024250Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250813T025904Z UID:66208-1764446400-1764451800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Daniel Muggleton: You Might Be White\, I May Be Crazy 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/daniel-muggleton/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Comedy ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/square-promo-daniel-muggleton.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251202T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251202T193000 DTSTAMP:20260413T033218 CREATED:20251113T001614Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251113T003410Z UID:68682-1764698400-1764703800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with William McInnes 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/william-mcinnes/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/william-sq-promo.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251203T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251203T200000 DTSTAMP:20260413T033218 CREATED:20250917T031355Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250917T031513Z UID:67359-1764788400-1764792000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Kadampa Meditation Series | Meditations on the Mind: How to Create Mental Space DESCRIPTION: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-3-dec-2025/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:kadampa ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Med_on_mind_Sq.webp ORGANIZER;CN="Kadampa Meditation":MAILTO:info@kadampa.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251206T100000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251206T140000 DTSTAMP:20260413T033218 CREATED:20251110T024632Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251128T005707Z UID:68436-1765015200-1765029600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:BMI Christmas Book Sale 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/bmi-christmas-book-sale/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Fundraiser,Important Dates,Library,Market ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/book-sale-square-promo-christmas-1.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251207T090000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251207T140000 DTSTAMP:20260413T033218 CREATED:20251110T010546Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251203T043313Z UID:68424-1765098000-1765116000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:BMI Christmas Market 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/bmi-christmas-market/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Art programs,Christmas,Fundraiser,Important Dates,Market ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/square-promo-christmas-market-calling-for-stallholders-v5-final-1.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251210T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251210T200000 DTSTAMP:20260413T033218 CREATED:20250917T031528Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250917T031619Z UID:67361-1765393200-1765396800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Kadampa Meditation Series | Meditations on the Mind: How to Create Mental Space DESCRIPTION: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-10-dec-2025/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:kadampa ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Med_on_mind_Sq.webp ORGANIZER;CN="Kadampa Meditation":MAILTO:info@kadampa.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251211T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251211T210000 DTSTAMP:20260413T033218 CREATED:20250212T034546Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250321T110602Z UID:62004-1765481400-1765486800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Ballarat Film Society | ​Little Richard: I am Everything 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-little-richard/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Ballarat Film Society,Externally Produced Event,Film ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/sqaure-promo-bfs5.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251212T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251212T200000 DTSTAMP:20260413T033218 CREATED:20250923T045702Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250923T051149Z UID:67545-1765566000-1765569600@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-12-dec-25/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Important Dates,Night Tours,Tours ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/received_908662326866361-e1708918930337.jpeg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251213T200000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251213T213000 DTSTAMP:20260413T033218 CREATED:20251021T225043Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251210T032321Z UID:68162-1765656000-1765661400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Christmas Comedy Gala at BMI 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/christmas-comedy-gala/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Comedy ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/sq-promo-comedy-gala.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260110T130000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260110T160000 DTSTAMP:20260413T033218 CREATED:20251209T021738Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251209T041541Z UID:69434-1768050000-1768060800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Artistanbul: Create your own Turkish Mosaic Lamp 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/art-istanbul-workshop/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Art programs,Christmas,Fundraiser,Important Dates,Market ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/sq-promo-art-instanbul.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260112T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260112T190000 DTSTAMP:20260413T033218 CREATED:20241217T012501Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251209T010209Z UID:60743-1768240800-1768244400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Ballarat Festival of Organ and Fine Music | Darkness & Delight - Jerry Wong (solo piano) DESCRIPTION: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/jerry-wong/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Classical Music,Live Music,organs ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/jerry-wong.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260123T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260123T213000 DTSTAMP:20260413T033218 CREATED:20251203T003308Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251203T010553Z UID:69281-1769196600-1769203800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Billy Hinde's Big Band presents: A Night of Big Band DESCRIPTION: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/a-night-of-big-band/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Live Music ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/sq-promo-billy-hinde.jpg END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR