BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute - ECPv6.17.1//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:20220402T160000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+1000 TZOFFSETTO:+1100 TZNAME:AEDT DTSTART:20221001T160000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+1100 TZOFFSETTO:+1000 TZNAME:AEST DTSTART:20230401T160000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+1000 TZOFFSETTO:+1100 TZNAME:AEDT DTSTART:20230930T160000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+1100 TZOFFSETTO:+1000 TZNAME:AEST DTSTART:20240406T160000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+1000 TZOFFSETTO:+1100 TZNAME:AEDT DTSTART:20241005T160000 END:DAYLIGHT END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230723T210000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230723T220000 DTSTAMP:20230705T041631Z CREATED:20230705T040454Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230705T041631Z UID:41354-1690146000-1690149600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Minerva's Secrets | Night Tours DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 1\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tell Me Something True \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n MICHAEL IS COMING HOME: This is his 20th novel\, but the 1st to be set in Australia. This is a once-in-a-lifetime publishing event for a book destined to enter the Australian canon as a classic. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The astonishing\, emotional epic from Michael Robotham: a mystery\, a coming-of-age tale and a love story wrapped into one\, set against the simmering tensions of a small Australian town. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I look along the road and notice how many people are standing outside their houses or watching from doorways and windows. Staring. Studying. ‘Do you think this town will ever forgive me?’ I ask. ‘Not in a million years.’ \n \n Small towns are quick to anger and slow to forgive\, but Arlo Hackett doesn’t expect mercy when he emerges from a twelve-year prison sentence and makes his way back to Yulara\, a waypoint on Australia’s Great Southern Road. The last time Arlo was home\, his brother Luke was charged with a terrible crime and Arlo was found guilty by association. His return to the goldrush town is like cracking open a time capsule full of hatred and violence\, along with memories of the people he loved – the ones he couldn’t save. Yulara wants Arlo gone\, or worse\, but every insult and humiliation pushes him to confront what really happened all those years ago. The truth will shock you\, surprise you\, and break your heart. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early praise for Tell Me Something True \n \n ‘My book of the year. This compelling\, intriguing and entertaining masterpiece examines the conscience of a whole town and should win every award going. Genius’ LIZ NUGENT ‘Emotional\, startling and beautifully crafted; it brings small town Australia into your living room’ VAL MC DERMID ‘Most writers would be proud to produce\, in their entire career\, a book half as good as Tell Me Something True. No one can touch him when it comes to infusing crime with character and heart’ LINWOOD BARCLAY \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Michael Robotham | Photo Tony Mott\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham Before becoming a novelist\, Michael Robotham was a feature writer and investigative reporter working in Britain\, Australia and America\, and with clinical and forensic psychologists as they helped police investigate complex\, psychologically driven crimes. 2024 marked the 20-year anniversary of the  publication of his debut thriller\, The Suspect\, which introduced clinical psychologist Joe O’Loughlin\, sold more than a million copies around the world and is now a major TV series starring Aidan Turner on ABC TV. Michael’s standalone thriller The Secrets She Keeps was adapted for TV by Network 10 and the BBC . Michael is the only Australian to twice win the UK’s prestigious Gold Dagger Award for best crime novel\, for Life or Death and Good Girl\, Bad Girl as well as the Ian Fleming Steel Dagger Award for When She Was Good. Lying Beside You was shortlisted for the Australian Crime Writers Association’s Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction 2023.  Storm Child\, the fourth novel in his globally bestselling Cyrus Haven and Evie Cormac series\, was a No. 1 national bestseller in Australia. The White Crow\, the second book in his Philomena McCarthy series\, following on from the internationally bestselling When You Are Mine was shortlisted for the 2025 Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction. Arlo’s story\, at the centre of Michael Robotham’s 20th novel\, Tell Me Something True\, has held a special place in his heart since he first dreamt of becoming a writer. Four decades later\, he’s ready to share it with readers for the first time. Michael lives in Sydney. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/minervas-secrets-night-tours-2/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Tours ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/night-tours-square.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230729T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230729T230000 DTSTAMP:20230705T235423Z CREATED:20230614T020804Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230705T235423Z UID:40564-1690657200-1690671600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Fanny Lumsden: Hey Dawn Tour - Ballarat DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 1\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tell Me Something True \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n MICHAEL IS COMING HOME: This is his 20th novel\, but the 1st to be set in Australia. This is a once-in-a-lifetime publishing event for a book destined to enter the Australian canon as a classic. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The astonishing\, emotional epic from Michael Robotham: a mystery\, a coming-of-age tale and a love story wrapped into one\, set against the simmering tensions of a small Australian town. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I look along the road and notice how many people are standing outside their houses or watching from doorways and windows. Staring. Studying. ‘Do you think this town will ever forgive me?’ I ask. ‘Not in a million years.’ \n \n Small towns are quick to anger and slow to forgive\, but Arlo Hackett doesn’t expect mercy when he emerges from a twelve-year prison sentence and makes his way back to Yulara\, a waypoint on Australia’s Great Southern Road. The last time Arlo was home\, his brother Luke was charged with a terrible crime and Arlo was found guilty by association. His return to the goldrush town is like cracking open a time capsule full of hatred and violence\, along with memories of the people he loved – the ones he couldn’t save. Yulara wants Arlo gone\, or worse\, but every insult and humiliation pushes him to confront what really happened all those years ago. The truth will shock you\, surprise you\, and break your heart. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early praise for Tell Me Something True \n \n ‘My book of the year. This compelling\, intriguing and entertaining masterpiece examines the conscience of a whole town and should win every award going. Genius’ LIZ NUGENT ‘Emotional\, startling and beautifully crafted; it brings small town Australia into your living room’ VAL MC DERMID ‘Most writers would be proud to produce\, in their entire career\, a book half as good as Tell Me Something True. No one can touch him when it comes to infusing crime with character and heart’ LINWOOD BARCLAY \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Michael Robotham | Photo Tony Mott\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham Before becoming a novelist\, Michael Robotham was a feature writer and investigative reporter working in Britain\, Australia and America\, and with clinical and forensic psychologists as they helped police investigate complex\, psychologically driven crimes. 2024 marked the 20-year anniversary of the  publication of his debut thriller\, The Suspect\, which introduced clinical psychologist Joe O’Loughlin\, sold more than a million copies around the world and is now a major TV series starring Aidan Turner on ABC TV. Michael’s standalone thriller The Secrets She Keeps was adapted for TV by Network 10 and the BBC . Michael is the only Australian to twice win the UK’s prestigious Gold Dagger Award for best crime novel\, for Life or Death and Good Girl\, Bad Girl as well as the Ian Fleming Steel Dagger Award for When She Was Good. Lying Beside You was shortlisted for the Australian Crime Writers Association’s Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction 2023.  Storm Child\, the fourth novel in his globally bestselling Cyrus Haven and Evie Cormac series\, was a No. 1 national bestseller in Australia. The White Crow\, the second book in his Philomena McCarthy series\, following on from the internationally bestselling When You Are Mine was shortlisted for the 2025 Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction. Arlo’s story\, at the centre of Michael Robotham’s 20th novel\, Tell Me Something True\, has held a special place in his heart since he first dreamt of becoming a writer. Four decades later\, he’s ready to share it with readers for the first time. Michael lives in Sydney. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/hey-dawn-tour/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Externally Produced Event,Live Music ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/fanny-square.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230810T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230810T210000 DTSTAMP:20230912T011409Z CREATED:20230202T031313Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230912T011409Z UID:33959-1691695800-1691701200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Ballarat Film Society - While at War (Mientras dure la guerra) DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 1\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tell Me Something True \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n MICHAEL IS COMING HOME: This is his 20th novel\, but the 1st to be set in Australia. This is a once-in-a-lifetime publishing event for a book destined to enter the Australian canon as a classic. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The astonishing\, emotional epic from Michael Robotham: a mystery\, a coming-of-age tale and a love story wrapped into one\, set against the simmering tensions of a small Australian town. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I look along the road and notice how many people are standing outside their houses or watching from doorways and windows. Staring. Studying. ‘Do you think this town will ever forgive me?’ I ask. ‘Not in a million years.’ \n \n Small towns are quick to anger and slow to forgive\, but Arlo Hackett doesn’t expect mercy when he emerges from a twelve-year prison sentence and makes his way back to Yulara\, a waypoint on Australia’s Great Southern Road. The last time Arlo was home\, his brother Luke was charged with a terrible crime and Arlo was found guilty by association. His return to the goldrush town is like cracking open a time capsule full of hatred and violence\, along with memories of the people he loved – the ones he couldn’t save. Yulara wants Arlo gone\, or worse\, but every insult and humiliation pushes him to confront what really happened all those years ago. The truth will shock you\, surprise you\, and break your heart. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early praise for Tell Me Something True \n \n ‘My book of the year. This compelling\, intriguing and entertaining masterpiece examines the conscience of a whole town and should win every award going. Genius’ LIZ NUGENT ‘Emotional\, startling and beautifully crafted; it brings small town Australia into your living room’ VAL MC DERMID ‘Most writers would be proud to produce\, in their entire career\, a book half as good as Tell Me Something True. No one can touch him when it comes to infusing crime with character and heart’ LINWOOD BARCLAY \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Michael Robotham | Photo Tony Mott\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham Before becoming a novelist\, Michael Robotham was a feature writer and investigative reporter working in Britain\, Australia and America\, and with clinical and forensic psychologists as they helped police investigate complex\, psychologically driven crimes. 2024 marked the 20-year anniversary of the  publication of his debut thriller\, The Suspect\, which introduced clinical psychologist Joe O’Loughlin\, sold more than a million copies around the world and is now a major TV series starring Aidan Turner on ABC TV. Michael’s standalone thriller The Secrets She Keeps was adapted for TV by Network 10 and the BBC . Michael is the only Australian to twice win the UK’s prestigious Gold Dagger Award for best crime novel\, for Life or Death and Good Girl\, Bad Girl as well as the Ian Fleming Steel Dagger Award for When She Was Good. Lying Beside You was shortlisted for the Australian Crime Writers Association’s Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction 2023.  Storm Child\, the fourth novel in his globally bestselling Cyrus Haven and Evie Cormac series\, was a No. 1 national bestseller in Australia. The White Crow\, the second book in his Philomena McCarthy series\, following on from the internationally bestselling When You Are Mine was shortlisted for the 2025 Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction. Arlo’s story\, at the centre of Michael Robotham’s 20th novel\, Tell Me Something True\, has held a special place in his heart since he first dreamt of becoming a writer. Four decades later\, he’s ready to share it with readers for the first time. Michael lives in Sydney. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/bfs-whileatwar/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Ballarat Film Society,Externally Produced Event,Film ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/vdq-TkpVIQY-e1675308153820.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230812T200000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230812T211500 DTSTAMP:20230802T022033Z CREATED:20220630T020615Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230802T022033Z UID:19932-1691870400-1691874900@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Daniel Connell - I'm Always Sore DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 1\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tell Me Something True \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n MICHAEL IS COMING HOME: This is his 20th novel\, but the 1st to be set in Australia. This is a once-in-a-lifetime publishing event for a book destined to enter the Australian canon as a classic. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The astonishing\, emotional epic from Michael Robotham: a mystery\, a coming-of-age tale and a love story wrapped into one\, set against the simmering tensions of a small Australian town. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I look along the road and notice how many people are standing outside their houses or watching from doorways and windows. Staring. Studying. ‘Do you think this town will ever forgive me?’ I ask. ‘Not in a million years.’ \n \n Small towns are quick to anger and slow to forgive\, but Arlo Hackett doesn’t expect mercy when he emerges from a twelve-year prison sentence and makes his way back to Yulara\, a waypoint on Australia’s Great Southern Road. The last time Arlo was home\, his brother Luke was charged with a terrible crime and Arlo was found guilty by association. His return to the goldrush town is like cracking open a time capsule full of hatred and violence\, along with memories of the people he loved – the ones he couldn’t save. Yulara wants Arlo gone\, or worse\, but every insult and humiliation pushes him to confront what really happened all those years ago. The truth will shock you\, surprise you\, and break your heart. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early praise for Tell Me Something True \n \n ‘My book of the year. This compelling\, intriguing and entertaining masterpiece examines the conscience of a whole town and should win every award going. Genius’ LIZ NUGENT ‘Emotional\, startling and beautifully crafted; it brings small town Australia into your living room’ VAL MC DERMID ‘Most writers would be proud to produce\, in their entire career\, a book half as good as Tell Me Something True. No one can touch him when it comes to infusing crime with character and heart’ LINWOOD BARCLAY \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Michael Robotham | Photo Tony Mott\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham Before becoming a novelist\, Michael Robotham was a feature writer and investigative reporter working in Britain\, Australia and America\, and with clinical and forensic psychologists as they helped police investigate complex\, psychologically driven crimes. 2024 marked the 20-year anniversary of the  publication of his debut thriller\, The Suspect\, which introduced clinical psychologist Joe O’Loughlin\, sold more than a million copies around the world and is now a major TV series starring Aidan Turner on ABC TV. Michael’s standalone thriller The Secrets She Keeps was adapted for TV by Network 10 and the BBC . Michael is the only Australian to twice win the UK’s prestigious Gold Dagger Award for best crime novel\, for Life or Death and Good Girl\, Bad Girl as well as the Ian Fleming Steel Dagger Award for When She Was Good. Lying Beside You was shortlisted for the Australian Crime Writers Association’s Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction 2023.  Storm Child\, the fourth novel in his globally bestselling Cyrus Haven and Evie Cormac series\, was a No. 1 national bestseller in Australia. The White Crow\, the second book in his Philomena McCarthy series\, following on from the internationally bestselling When You Are Mine was shortlisted for the 2025 Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction. Arlo’s story\, at the centre of Michael Robotham’s 20th novel\, Tell Me Something True\, has held a special place in his heart since he first dreamt of becoming a writer. Four decades later\, he’s ready to share it with readers for the first time. Michael lives in Sydney. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/daniel-connell/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Comedy ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/daniel-connell-square.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230818T100000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230818T160000 DTSTAMP:20230801T015937Z CREATED:20230801T011327Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230801T015937Z UID:42439-1692352800-1692374400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Conservation for non-conservators DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 1\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tell Me Something True \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n MICHAEL IS COMING HOME: This is his 20th novel\, but the 1st to be set in Australia. This is a once-in-a-lifetime publishing event for a book destined to enter the Australian canon as a classic. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The astonishing\, emotional epic from Michael Robotham: a mystery\, a coming-of-age tale and a love story wrapped into one\, set against the simmering tensions of a small Australian town. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I look along the road and notice how many people are standing outside their houses or watching from doorways and windows. Staring. Studying. ‘Do you think this town will ever forgive me?’ I ask. ‘Not in a million years.’ \n \n Small towns are quick to anger and slow to forgive\, but Arlo Hackett doesn’t expect mercy when he emerges from a twelve-year prison sentence and makes his way back to Yulara\, a waypoint on Australia’s Great Southern Road. The last time Arlo was home\, his brother Luke was charged with a terrible crime and Arlo was found guilty by association. His return to the goldrush town is like cracking open a time capsule full of hatred and violence\, along with memories of the people he loved – the ones he couldn’t save. Yulara wants Arlo gone\, or worse\, but every insult and humiliation pushes him to confront what really happened all those years ago. The truth will shock you\, surprise you\, and break your heart. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early praise for Tell Me Something True \n \n ‘My book of the year. This compelling\, intriguing and entertaining masterpiece examines the conscience of a whole town and should win every award going. Genius’ LIZ NUGENT ‘Emotional\, startling and beautifully crafted; it brings small town Australia into your living room’ VAL MC DERMID ‘Most writers would be proud to produce\, in their entire career\, a book half as good as Tell Me Something True. No one can touch him when it comes to infusing crime with character and heart’ LINWOOD BARCLAY \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Michael Robotham | Photo Tony Mott\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham Before becoming a novelist\, Michael Robotham was a feature writer and investigative reporter working in Britain\, Australia and America\, and with clinical and forensic psychologists as they helped police investigate complex\, psychologically driven crimes. 2024 marked the 20-year anniversary of the  publication of his debut thriller\, The Suspect\, which introduced clinical psychologist Joe O’Loughlin\, sold more than a million copies around the world and is now a major TV series starring Aidan Turner on ABC TV. Michael’s standalone thriller The Secrets She Keeps was adapted for TV by Network 10 and the BBC . Michael is the only Australian to twice win the UK’s prestigious Gold Dagger Award for best crime novel\, for Life or Death and Good Girl\, Bad Girl as well as the Ian Fleming Steel Dagger Award for When She Was Good. Lying Beside You was shortlisted for the Australian Crime Writers Association’s Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction 2023.  Storm Child\, the fourth novel in his globally bestselling Cyrus Haven and Evie Cormac series\, was a No. 1 national bestseller in Australia. The White Crow\, the second book in his Philomena McCarthy series\, following on from the internationally bestselling When You Are Mine was shortlisted for the 2025 Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction. Arlo’s story\, at the centre of Michael Robotham’s 20th novel\, Tell Me Something True\, has held a special place in his heart since he first dreamt of becoming a writer. Four decades later\, he’s ready to share it with readers for the first time. Michael lives in Sydney. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/conversation-for-non-conservators-amaga/ LOCATION:Heritage Reading Room\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Conservation ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Volunteers-web.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230823T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230823T203000 DTSTAMP:20230811T040043Z CREATED:20230713T051346Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230811T040043Z UID:41664-1692817200-1692822600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Kadampa Meditation DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 1\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tell Me Something True \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n MICHAEL IS COMING HOME: This is his 20th novel\, but the 1st to be set in Australia. This is a once-in-a-lifetime publishing event for a book destined to enter the Australian canon as a classic. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The astonishing\, emotional epic from Michael Robotham: a mystery\, a coming-of-age tale and a love story wrapped into one\, set against the simmering tensions of a small Australian town. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I look along the road and notice how many people are standing outside their houses or watching from doorways and windows. Staring. Studying. ‘Do you think this town will ever forgive me?’ I ask. ‘Not in a million years.’ \n \n Small towns are quick to anger and slow to forgive\, but Arlo Hackett doesn’t expect mercy when he emerges from a twelve-year prison sentence and makes his way back to Yulara\, a waypoint on Australia’s Great Southern Road. The last time Arlo was home\, his brother Luke was charged with a terrible crime and Arlo was found guilty by association. His return to the goldrush town is like cracking open a time capsule full of hatred and violence\, along with memories of the people he loved – the ones he couldn’t save. Yulara wants Arlo gone\, or worse\, but every insult and humiliation pushes him to confront what really happened all those years ago. The truth will shock you\, surprise you\, and break your heart. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early praise for Tell Me Something True \n \n ‘My book of the year. This compelling\, intriguing and entertaining masterpiece examines the conscience of a whole town and should win every award going. Genius’ LIZ NUGENT ‘Emotional\, startling and beautifully crafted; it brings small town Australia into your living room’ VAL MC DERMID ‘Most writers would be proud to produce\, in their entire career\, a book half as good as Tell Me Something True. No one can touch him when it comes to infusing crime with character and heart’ LINWOOD BARCLAY \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Michael Robotham | Photo Tony Mott\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham Before becoming a novelist\, Michael Robotham was a feature writer and investigative reporter working in Britain\, Australia and America\, and with clinical and forensic psychologists as they helped police investigate complex\, psychologically driven crimes. 2024 marked the 20-year anniversary of the  publication of his debut thriller\, The Suspect\, which introduced clinical psychologist Joe O’Loughlin\, sold more than a million copies around the world and is now a major TV series starring Aidan Turner on ABC TV. Michael’s standalone thriller The Secrets She Keeps was adapted for TV by Network 10 and the BBC . Michael is the only Australian to twice win the UK’s prestigious Gold Dagger Award for best crime novel\, for Life or Death and Good Girl\, Bad Girl as well as the Ian Fleming Steel Dagger Award for When She Was Good. Lying Beside You was shortlisted for the Australian Crime Writers Association’s Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction 2023.  Storm Child\, the fourth novel in his globally bestselling Cyrus Haven and Evie Cormac series\, was a No. 1 national bestseller in Australia. The White Crow\, the second book in his Philomena McCarthy series\, following on from the internationally bestselling When You Are Mine was shortlisted for the 2025 Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction. Arlo’s story\, at the centre of Michael Robotham’s 20th novel\, Tell Me Something True\, has held a special place in his heart since he first dreamt of becoming a writer. Four decades later\, he’s ready to share it with readers for the first time. Michael lives in Sydney. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/kadampa-meditation-4-2/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:kadampa ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/kadampa-Ballarat-sep-dec-2023-1-logo.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230826T200000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230826T213000 DTSTAMP:20230726T024259Z CREATED:20230726T024254Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230726T024259Z UID:42329-1693080000-1693085400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Sweeney Preston & Ethan Cavanagh: Presentation is Everything | SPECIAL TAPING DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 1\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tell Me Something True \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n MICHAEL IS COMING HOME: This is his 20th novel\, but the 1st to be set in Australia. This is a once-in-a-lifetime publishing event for a book destined to enter the Australian canon as a classic. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The astonishing\, emotional epic from Michael Robotham: a mystery\, a coming-of-age tale and a love story wrapped into one\, set against the simmering tensions of a small Australian town. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I look along the road and notice how many people are standing outside their houses or watching from doorways and windows. Staring. Studying. ‘Do you think this town will ever forgive me?’ I ask. ‘Not in a million years.’ \n \n Small towns are quick to anger and slow to forgive\, but Arlo Hackett doesn’t expect mercy when he emerges from a twelve-year prison sentence and makes his way back to Yulara\, a waypoint on Australia’s Great Southern Road. The last time Arlo was home\, his brother Luke was charged with a terrible crime and Arlo was found guilty by association. His return to the goldrush town is like cracking open a time capsule full of hatred and violence\, along with memories of the people he loved – the ones he couldn’t save. Yulara wants Arlo gone\, or worse\, but every insult and humiliation pushes him to confront what really happened all those years ago. The truth will shock you\, surprise you\, and break your heart. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early praise for Tell Me Something True \n \n ‘My book of the year. This compelling\, intriguing and entertaining masterpiece examines the conscience of a whole town and should win every award going. Genius’ LIZ NUGENT ‘Emotional\, startling and beautifully crafted; it brings small town Australia into your living room’ VAL MC DERMID ‘Most writers would be proud to produce\, in their entire career\, a book half as good as Tell Me Something True. No one can touch him when it comes to infusing crime with character and heart’ LINWOOD BARCLAY \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Michael Robotham | Photo Tony Mott\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham Before becoming a novelist\, Michael Robotham was a feature writer and investigative reporter working in Britain\, Australia and America\, and with clinical and forensic psychologists as they helped police investigate complex\, psychologically driven crimes. 2024 marked the 20-year anniversary of the  publication of his debut thriller\, The Suspect\, which introduced clinical psychologist Joe O’Loughlin\, sold more than a million copies around the world and is now a major TV series starring Aidan Turner on ABC TV. Michael’s standalone thriller The Secrets She Keeps was adapted for TV by Network 10 and the BBC . Michael is the only Australian to twice win the UK’s prestigious Gold Dagger Award for best crime novel\, for Life or Death and Good Girl\, Bad Girl as well as the Ian Fleming Steel Dagger Award for When She Was Good. Lying Beside You was shortlisted for the Australian Crime Writers Association’s Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction 2023.  Storm Child\, the fourth novel in his globally bestselling Cyrus Haven and Evie Cormac series\, was a No. 1 national bestseller in Australia. The White Crow\, the second book in his Philomena McCarthy series\, following on from the internationally bestselling When You Are Mine was shortlisted for the 2025 Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction. Arlo’s story\, at the centre of Michael Robotham’s 20th novel\, Tell Me Something True\, has held a special place in his heart since he first dreamt of becoming a writer. Four decades later\, he’s ready to share it with readers for the first time. Michael lives in Sydney. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/presentation-is-everything/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Comedy,Externally Produced Event ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Eventbrite-Lead-Image-e1690339348319.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230827T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230827T200000 DTSTAMP:20230705T043517Z CREATED:20230705T041900Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230705T043517Z UID:41358-1693162800-1693166400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Minerva's Secrets | Night Tours DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 1\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tell Me Something True \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n MICHAEL IS COMING HOME: This is his 20th novel\, but the 1st to be set in Australia. This is a once-in-a-lifetime publishing event for a book destined to enter the Australian canon as a classic. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The astonishing\, emotional epic from Michael Robotham: a mystery\, a coming-of-age tale and a love story wrapped into one\, set against the simmering tensions of a small Australian town. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I look along the road and notice how many people are standing outside their houses or watching from doorways and windows. Staring. Studying. ‘Do you think this town will ever forgive me?’ I ask. ‘Not in a million years.’ \n \n Small towns are quick to anger and slow to forgive\, but Arlo Hackett doesn’t expect mercy when he emerges from a twelve-year prison sentence and makes his way back to Yulara\, a waypoint on Australia’s Great Southern Road. The last time Arlo was home\, his brother Luke was charged with a terrible crime and Arlo was found guilty by association. His return to the goldrush town is like cracking open a time capsule full of hatred and violence\, along with memories of the people he loved – the ones he couldn’t save. Yulara wants Arlo gone\, or worse\, but every insult and humiliation pushes him to confront what really happened all those years ago. The truth will shock you\, surprise you\, and break your heart. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early praise for Tell Me Something True \n \n ‘My book of the year. This compelling\, intriguing and entertaining masterpiece examines the conscience of a whole town and should win every award going. Genius’ LIZ NUGENT ‘Emotional\, startling and beautifully crafted; it brings small town Australia into your living room’ VAL MC DERMID ‘Most writers would be proud to produce\, in their entire career\, a book half as good as Tell Me Something True. No one can touch him when it comes to infusing crime with character and heart’ LINWOOD BARCLAY \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Michael Robotham | Photo Tony Mott\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham Before becoming a novelist\, Michael Robotham was a feature writer and investigative reporter working in Britain\, Australia and America\, and with clinical and forensic psychologists as they helped police investigate complex\, psychologically driven crimes. 2024 marked the 20-year anniversary of the  publication of his debut thriller\, The Suspect\, which introduced clinical psychologist Joe O’Loughlin\, sold more than a million copies around the world and is now a major TV series starring Aidan Turner on ABC TV. Michael’s standalone thriller The Secrets She Keeps was adapted for TV by Network 10 and the BBC . Michael is the only Australian to twice win the UK’s prestigious Gold Dagger Award for best crime novel\, for Life or Death and Good Girl\, Bad Girl as well as the Ian Fleming Steel Dagger Award for When She Was Good. Lying Beside You was shortlisted for the Australian Crime Writers Association’s Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction 2023.  Storm Child\, the fourth novel in his globally bestselling Cyrus Haven and Evie Cormac series\, was a No. 1 national bestseller in Australia. The White Crow\, the second book in his Philomena McCarthy series\, following on from the internationally bestselling When You Are Mine was shortlisted for the 2025 Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction. Arlo’s story\, at the centre of Michael Robotham’s 20th novel\, Tell Me Something True\, has held a special place in his heart since he first dreamt of becoming a writer. Four decades later\, he’s ready to share it with readers for the first time. Michael lives in Sydney. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/minervas-secrets-night-tours-3/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Tours ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/night-tours-square.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230827T210000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230827T220000 DTSTAMP:20230705T043532Z CREATED:20230705T041857Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230705T043532Z UID:41357-1693170000-1693173600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Minerva's Secrets | Night Tours DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 1\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tell Me Something True \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n MICHAEL IS COMING HOME: This is his 20th novel\, but the 1st to be set in Australia. This is a once-in-a-lifetime publishing event for a book destined to enter the Australian canon as a classic. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The astonishing\, emotional epic from Michael Robotham: a mystery\, a coming-of-age tale and a love story wrapped into one\, set against the simmering tensions of a small Australian town. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I look along the road and notice how many people are standing outside their houses or watching from doorways and windows. Staring. Studying. ‘Do you think this town will ever forgive me?’ I ask. ‘Not in a million years.’ \n \n Small towns are quick to anger and slow to forgive\, but Arlo Hackett doesn’t expect mercy when he emerges from a twelve-year prison sentence and makes his way back to Yulara\, a waypoint on Australia’s Great Southern Road. The last time Arlo was home\, his brother Luke was charged with a terrible crime and Arlo was found guilty by association. His return to the goldrush town is like cracking open a time capsule full of hatred and violence\, along with memories of the people he loved – the ones he couldn’t save. Yulara wants Arlo gone\, or worse\, but every insult and humiliation pushes him to confront what really happened all those years ago. The truth will shock you\, surprise you\, and break your heart. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early praise for Tell Me Something True \n \n ‘My book of the year. This compelling\, intriguing and entertaining masterpiece examines the conscience of a whole town and should win every award going. Genius’ LIZ NUGENT ‘Emotional\, startling and beautifully crafted; it brings small town Australia into your living room’ VAL MC DERMID ‘Most writers would be proud to produce\, in their entire career\, a book half as good as Tell Me Something True. No one can touch him when it comes to infusing crime with character and heart’ LINWOOD BARCLAY \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Michael Robotham | Photo Tony Mott\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham Before becoming a novelist\, Michael Robotham was a feature writer and investigative reporter working in Britain\, Australia and America\, and with clinical and forensic psychologists as they helped police investigate complex\, psychologically driven crimes. 2024 marked the 20-year anniversary of the  publication of his debut thriller\, The Suspect\, which introduced clinical psychologist Joe O’Loughlin\, sold more than a million copies around the world and is now a major TV series starring Aidan Turner on ABC TV. Michael’s standalone thriller The Secrets She Keeps was adapted for TV by Network 10 and the BBC . Michael is the only Australian to twice win the UK’s prestigious Gold Dagger Award for best crime novel\, for Life or Death and Good Girl\, Bad Girl as well as the Ian Fleming Steel Dagger Award for When She Was Good. Lying Beside You was shortlisted for the Australian Crime Writers Association’s Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction 2023.  Storm Child\, the fourth novel in his globally bestselling Cyrus Haven and Evie Cormac series\, was a No. 1 national bestseller in Australia. The White Crow\, the second book in his Philomena McCarthy series\, following on from the internationally bestselling When You Are Mine was shortlisted for the 2025 Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction. Arlo’s story\, at the centre of Michael Robotham’s 20th novel\, Tell Me Something True\, has held a special place in his heart since he first dreamt of becoming a writer. Four decades later\, he’s ready to share it with readers for the first time. Michael lives in Sydney. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/minervas-secrets-night-tours-4/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Tours ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/night-tours-square.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230823T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230823T203000 DTSTAMP:20230811T040043Z CREATED:20230713T051346Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230811T040043Z UID:41664-1692817200-1692822600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Kadampa Meditation DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 1\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tell Me Something True \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n MICHAEL IS COMING HOME: This is his 20th novel\, but the 1st to be set in Australia. This is a once-in-a-lifetime publishing event for a book destined to enter the Australian canon as a classic. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The astonishing\, emotional epic from Michael Robotham: a mystery\, a coming-of-age tale and a love story wrapped into one\, set against the simmering tensions of a small Australian town. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I look along the road and notice how many people are standing outside their houses or watching from doorways and windows. Staring. Studying. ‘Do you think this town will ever forgive me?’ I ask. ‘Not in a million years.’ \n \n Small towns are quick to anger and slow to forgive\, but Arlo Hackett doesn’t expect mercy when he emerges from a twelve-year prison sentence and makes his way back to Yulara\, a waypoint on Australia’s Great Southern Road. The last time Arlo was home\, his brother Luke was charged with a terrible crime and Arlo was found guilty by association. His return to the goldrush town is like cracking open a time capsule full of hatred and violence\, along with memories of the people he loved – the ones he couldn’t save. Yulara wants Arlo gone\, or worse\, but every insult and humiliation pushes him to confront what really happened all those years ago. The truth will shock you\, surprise you\, and break your heart. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early praise for Tell Me Something True \n \n ‘My book of the year. This compelling\, intriguing and entertaining masterpiece examines the conscience of a whole town and should win every award going. Genius’ LIZ NUGENT ‘Emotional\, startling and beautifully crafted; it brings small town Australia into your living room’ VAL MC DERMID ‘Most writers would be proud to produce\, in their entire career\, a book half as good as Tell Me Something True. No one can touch him when it comes to infusing crime with character and heart’ LINWOOD BARCLAY \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Michael Robotham | Photo Tony Mott\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham Before becoming a novelist\, Michael Robotham was a feature writer and investigative reporter working in Britain\, Australia and America\, and with clinical and forensic psychologists as they helped police investigate complex\, psychologically driven crimes. 2024 marked the 20-year anniversary of the  publication of his debut thriller\, The Suspect\, which introduced clinical psychologist Joe O’Loughlin\, sold more than a million copies around the world and is now a major TV series starring Aidan Turner on ABC TV. Michael’s standalone thriller The Secrets She Keeps was adapted for TV by Network 10 and the BBC . Michael is the only Australian to twice win the UK’s prestigious Gold Dagger Award for best crime novel\, for Life or Death and Good Girl\, Bad Girl as well as the Ian Fleming Steel Dagger Award for When She Was Good. Lying Beside You was shortlisted for the Australian Crime Writers Association’s Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction 2023.  Storm Child\, the fourth novel in his globally bestselling Cyrus Haven and Evie Cormac series\, was a No. 1 national bestseller in Australia. The White Crow\, the second book in his Philomena McCarthy series\, following on from the internationally bestselling When You Are Mine was shortlisted for the 2025 Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction. Arlo’s story\, at the centre of Michael Robotham’s 20th novel\, Tell Me Something True\, has held a special place in his heart since he first dreamt of becoming a writer. Four decades later\, he’s ready to share it with readers for the first time. Michael lives in Sydney. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/kadampa-meditation-4-2/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:kadampa ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/kadampa-Ballarat-sep-dec-2023-1-logo.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230823T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230823T203000 DTSTAMP:20230811T040043Z CREATED:20230713T051346Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230811T040043Z UID:41664-1692817200-1692822600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Kadampa Meditation DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 1\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tell Me Something True \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n MICHAEL IS COMING HOME: This is his 20th novel\, but the 1st to be set in Australia. This is a once-in-a-lifetime publishing event for a book destined to enter the Australian canon as a classic. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The astonishing\, emotional epic from Michael Robotham: a mystery\, a coming-of-age tale and a love story wrapped into one\, set against the simmering tensions of a small Australian town. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I look along the road and notice how many people are standing outside their houses or watching from doorways and windows. Staring. Studying. ‘Do you think this town will ever forgive me?’ I ask. ‘Not in a million years.’ \n \n Small towns are quick to anger and slow to forgive\, but Arlo Hackett doesn’t expect mercy when he emerges from a twelve-year prison sentence and makes his way back to Yulara\, a waypoint on Australia’s Great Southern Road. The last time Arlo was home\, his brother Luke was charged with a terrible crime and Arlo was found guilty by association. His return to the goldrush town is like cracking open a time capsule full of hatred and violence\, along with memories of the people he loved – the ones he couldn’t save. Yulara wants Arlo gone\, or worse\, but every insult and humiliation pushes him to confront what really happened all those years ago. The truth will shock you\, surprise you\, and break your heart. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early praise for Tell Me Something True \n \n ‘My book of the year. This compelling\, intriguing and entertaining masterpiece examines the conscience of a whole town and should win every award going. Genius’ LIZ NUGENT ‘Emotional\, startling and beautifully crafted; it brings small town Australia into your living room’ VAL MC DERMID ‘Most writers would be proud to produce\, in their entire career\, a book half as good as Tell Me Something True. No one can touch him when it comes to infusing crime with character and heart’ LINWOOD BARCLAY \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Michael Robotham | Photo Tony Mott\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham Before becoming a novelist\, Michael Robotham was a feature writer and investigative reporter working in Britain\, Australia and America\, and with clinical and forensic psychologists as they helped police investigate complex\, psychologically driven crimes. 2024 marked the 20-year anniversary of the  publication of his debut thriller\, The Suspect\, which introduced clinical psychologist Joe O’Loughlin\, sold more than a million copies around the world and is now a major TV series starring Aidan Turner on ABC TV. Michael’s standalone thriller The Secrets She Keeps was adapted for TV by Network 10 and the BBC . Michael is the only Australian to twice win the UK’s prestigious Gold Dagger Award for best crime novel\, for Life or Death and Good Girl\, Bad Girl as well as the Ian Fleming Steel Dagger Award for When She Was Good. Lying Beside You was shortlisted for the Australian Crime Writers Association’s Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction 2023.  Storm Child\, the fourth novel in his globally bestselling Cyrus Haven and Evie Cormac series\, was a No. 1 national bestseller in Australia. The White Crow\, the second book in his Philomena McCarthy series\, following on from the internationally bestselling When You Are Mine was shortlisted for the 2025 Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction. Arlo’s story\, at the centre of Michael Robotham’s 20th novel\, Tell Me Something True\, has held a special place in his heart since he first dreamt of becoming a writer. Four decades later\, he’s ready to share it with readers for the first time. Michael lives in Sydney. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/kadampa-meditation-4-2/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:kadampa ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/kadampa-Ballarat-sep-dec-2023-1-logo.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230914T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230914T210000 DTSTAMP:20230912T011354Z CREATED:20230202T033121Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230912T011354Z UID:33974-1694719800-1694725200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Ballarat Film Society - Ema DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 1\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tell Me Something True \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n MICHAEL IS COMING HOME: This is his 20th novel\, but the 1st to be set in Australia. This is a once-in-a-lifetime publishing event for a book destined to enter the Australian canon as a classic. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The astonishing\, emotional epic from Michael Robotham: a mystery\, a coming-of-age tale and a love story wrapped into one\, set against the simmering tensions of a small Australian town. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I look along the road and notice how many people are standing outside their houses or watching from doorways and windows. Staring. Studying. ‘Do you think this town will ever forgive me?’ I ask. ‘Not in a million years.’ \n \n Small towns are quick to anger and slow to forgive\, but Arlo Hackett doesn’t expect mercy when he emerges from a twelve-year prison sentence and makes his way back to Yulara\, a waypoint on Australia’s Great Southern Road. The last time Arlo was home\, his brother Luke was charged with a terrible crime and Arlo was found guilty by association. His return to the goldrush town is like cracking open a time capsule full of hatred and violence\, along with memories of the people he loved – the ones he couldn’t save. Yulara wants Arlo gone\, or worse\, but every insult and humiliation pushes him to confront what really happened all those years ago. The truth will shock you\, surprise you\, and break your heart. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early praise for Tell Me Something True \n \n ‘My book of the year. This compelling\, intriguing and entertaining masterpiece examines the conscience of a whole town and should win every award going. Genius’ LIZ NUGENT ‘Emotional\, startling and beautifully crafted; it brings small town Australia into your living room’ VAL MC DERMID ‘Most writers would be proud to produce\, in their entire career\, a book half as good as Tell Me Something True. No one can touch him when it comes to infusing crime with character and heart’ LINWOOD BARCLAY \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Michael Robotham | Photo Tony Mott\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham Before becoming a novelist\, Michael Robotham was a feature writer and investigative reporter working in Britain\, Australia and America\, and with clinical and forensic psychologists as they helped police investigate complex\, psychologically driven crimes. 2024 marked the 20-year anniversary of the  publication of his debut thriller\, The Suspect\, which introduced clinical psychologist Joe O’Loughlin\, sold more than a million copies around the world and is now a major TV series starring Aidan Turner on ABC TV. Michael’s standalone thriller The Secrets She Keeps was adapted for TV by Network 10 and the BBC . Michael is the only Australian to twice win the UK’s prestigious Gold Dagger Award for best crime novel\, for Life or Death and Good Girl\, Bad Girl as well as the Ian Fleming Steel Dagger Award for When She Was Good. Lying Beside You was shortlisted for the Australian Crime Writers Association’s Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction 2023.  Storm Child\, the fourth novel in his globally bestselling Cyrus Haven and Evie Cormac series\, was a No. 1 national bestseller in Australia. The White Crow\, the second book in his Philomena McCarthy series\, following on from the internationally bestselling When You Are Mine was shortlisted for the 2025 Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction. Arlo’s story\, at the centre of Michael Robotham’s 20th novel\, Tell Me Something True\, has held a special place in his heart since he first dreamt of becoming a writer. Four decades later\, he’s ready to share it with readers for the first time. Michael lives in Sydney. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/bfs-ema/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Ballarat Film Society,Externally Produced Event,Film ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/ema01.jpg-e1675308876596.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230916T170000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230916T180000 DTSTAMP:20230825T030905Z CREATED:20230804T052600Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230825T030905Z UID:42786-1694883600-1694887200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Chamber Music in Ballarat | All Beethoven Duo Recital DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 1\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tell Me Something True \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n MICHAEL IS COMING HOME: This is his 20th novel\, but the 1st to be set in Australia. This is a once-in-a-lifetime publishing event for a book destined to enter the Australian canon as a classic. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The astonishing\, emotional epic from Michael Robotham: a mystery\, a coming-of-age tale and a love story wrapped into one\, set against the simmering tensions of a small Australian town. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I look along the road and notice how many people are standing outside their houses or watching from doorways and windows. Staring. Studying. ‘Do you think this town will ever forgive me?’ I ask. ‘Not in a million years.’ \n \n Small towns are quick to anger and slow to forgive\, but Arlo Hackett doesn’t expect mercy when he emerges from a twelve-year prison sentence and makes his way back to Yulara\, a waypoint on Australia’s Great Southern Road. The last time Arlo was home\, his brother Luke was charged with a terrible crime and Arlo was found guilty by association. His return to the goldrush town is like cracking open a time capsule full of hatred and violence\, along with memories of the people he loved – the ones he couldn’t save. Yulara wants Arlo gone\, or worse\, but every insult and humiliation pushes him to confront what really happened all those years ago. The truth will shock you\, surprise you\, and break your heart. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early praise for Tell Me Something True \n \n ‘My book of the year. This compelling\, intriguing and entertaining masterpiece examines the conscience of a whole town and should win every award going. Genius’ LIZ NUGENT ‘Emotional\, startling and beautifully crafted; it brings small town Australia into your living room’ VAL MC DERMID ‘Most writers would be proud to produce\, in their entire career\, a book half as good as Tell Me Something True. No one can touch him when it comes to infusing crime with character and heart’ LINWOOD BARCLAY \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Michael Robotham | Photo Tony Mott\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham Before becoming a novelist\, Michael Robotham was a feature writer and investigative reporter working in Britain\, Australia and America\, and with clinical and forensic psychologists as they helped police investigate complex\, psychologically driven crimes. 2024 marked the 20-year anniversary of the  publication of his debut thriller\, The Suspect\, which introduced clinical psychologist Joe O’Loughlin\, sold more than a million copies around the world and is now a major TV series starring Aidan Turner on ABC TV. Michael’s standalone thriller The Secrets She Keeps was adapted for TV by Network 10 and the BBC . Michael is the only Australian to twice win the UK’s prestigious Gold Dagger Award for best crime novel\, for Life or Death and Good Girl\, Bad Girl as well as the Ian Fleming Steel Dagger Award for When She Was Good. Lying Beside You was shortlisted for the Australian Crime Writers Association’s Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction 2023.  Storm Child\, the fourth novel in his globally bestselling Cyrus Haven and Evie Cormac series\, was a No. 1 national bestseller in Australia. The White Crow\, the second book in his Philomena McCarthy series\, following on from the internationally bestselling When You Are Mine was shortlisted for the 2025 Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction. Arlo’s story\, at the centre of Michael Robotham’s 20th novel\, Tell Me Something True\, has held a special place in his heart since he first dreamt of becoming a writer. Four decades later\, he’s ready to share it with readers for the first time. Michael lives in Sydney. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/all-beethoven-duo-recital/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Art programs,Classical Music,Live Music ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Square-promotional.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230920T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230920T200000 DTSTAMP:20230912T043031Z CREATED:20230705T055031Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230912T043031Z UID:41381-1695232800-1695240000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Meet the Author | Justin Smith DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 1\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tell Me Something True \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n MICHAEL IS COMING HOME: This is his 20th novel\, but the 1st to be set in Australia. This is a once-in-a-lifetime publishing event for a book destined to enter the Australian canon as a classic. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The astonishing\, emotional epic from Michael Robotham: a mystery\, a coming-of-age tale and a love story wrapped into one\, set against the simmering tensions of a small Australian town. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I look along the road and notice how many people are standing outside their houses or watching from doorways and windows. Staring. Studying. ‘Do you think this town will ever forgive me?’ I ask. ‘Not in a million years.’ \n \n Small towns are quick to anger and slow to forgive\, but Arlo Hackett doesn’t expect mercy when he emerges from a twelve-year prison sentence and makes his way back to Yulara\, a waypoint on Australia’s Great Southern Road. The last time Arlo was home\, his brother Luke was charged with a terrible crime and Arlo was found guilty by association. His return to the goldrush town is like cracking open a time capsule full of hatred and violence\, along with memories of the people he loved – the ones he couldn’t save. Yulara wants Arlo gone\, or worse\, but every insult and humiliation pushes him to confront what really happened all those years ago. The truth will shock you\, surprise you\, and break your heart. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early praise for Tell Me Something True \n \n ‘My book of the year. This compelling\, intriguing and entertaining masterpiece examines the conscience of a whole town and should win every award going. Genius’ LIZ NUGENT ‘Emotional\, startling and beautifully crafted; it brings small town Australia into your living room’ VAL MC DERMID ‘Most writers would be proud to produce\, in their entire career\, a book half as good as Tell Me Something True. No one can touch him when it comes to infusing crime with character and heart’ LINWOOD BARCLAY \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Michael Robotham | Photo Tony Mott\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham Before becoming a novelist\, Michael Robotham was a feature writer and investigative reporter working in Britain\, Australia and America\, and with clinical and forensic psychologists as they helped police investigate complex\, psychologically driven crimes. 2024 marked the 20-year anniversary of the  publication of his debut thriller\, The Suspect\, which introduced clinical psychologist Joe O’Loughlin\, sold more than a million copies around the world and is now a major TV series starring Aidan Turner on ABC TV. Michael’s standalone thriller The Secrets She Keeps was adapted for TV by Network 10 and the BBC . Michael is the only Australian to twice win the UK’s prestigious Gold Dagger Award for best crime novel\, for Life or Death and Good Girl\, Bad Girl as well as the Ian Fleming Steel Dagger Award for When She Was Good. Lying Beside You was shortlisted for the Australian Crime Writers Association’s Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction 2023.  Storm Child\, the fourth novel in his globally bestselling Cyrus Haven and Evie Cormac series\, was a No. 1 national bestseller in Australia. The White Crow\, the second book in his Philomena McCarthy series\, following on from the internationally bestselling When You Are Mine was shortlisted for the 2025 Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction. Arlo’s story\, at the centre of Michael Robotham’s 20th novel\, Tell Me Something True\, has held a special place in his heart since he first dreamt of becoming a writer. Four decades later\, he’s ready to share it with readers for the first time. Michael lives in Sydney. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/meet-the-author-justin-smith/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/justin-smith-john-pallot-square.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230923T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230923T230000 DTSTAMP:20230825T030733Z CREATED:20230825T020345Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230825T030733Z UID:44076-1695497400-1695510000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Australian Burlesque Festival | The Big Teaser DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 1\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tell Me Something True \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n MICHAEL IS COMING HOME: This is his 20th novel\, but the 1st to be set in Australia. This is a once-in-a-lifetime publishing event for a book destined to enter the Australian canon as a classic. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The astonishing\, emotional epic from Michael Robotham: a mystery\, a coming-of-age tale and a love story wrapped into one\, set against the simmering tensions of a small Australian town. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I look along the road and notice how many people are standing outside their houses or watching from doorways and windows. Staring. Studying. ‘Do you think this town will ever forgive me?’ I ask. ‘Not in a million years.’ \n \n Small towns are quick to anger and slow to forgive\, but Arlo Hackett doesn’t expect mercy when he emerges from a twelve-year prison sentence and makes his way back to Yulara\, a waypoint on Australia’s Great Southern Road. The last time Arlo was home\, his brother Luke was charged with a terrible crime and Arlo was found guilty by association. His return to the goldrush town is like cracking open a time capsule full of hatred and violence\, along with memories of the people he loved – the ones he couldn’t save. Yulara wants Arlo gone\, or worse\, but every insult and humiliation pushes him to confront what really happened all those years ago. The truth will shock you\, surprise you\, and break your heart. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early praise for Tell Me Something True \n \n ‘My book of the year. This compelling\, intriguing and entertaining masterpiece examines the conscience of a whole town and should win every award going. Genius’ LIZ NUGENT ‘Emotional\, startling and beautifully crafted; it brings small town Australia into your living room’ VAL MC DERMID ‘Most writers would be proud to produce\, in their entire career\, a book half as good as Tell Me Something True. No one can touch him when it comes to infusing crime with character and heart’ LINWOOD BARCLAY \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Michael Robotham | Photo Tony Mott\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham Before becoming a novelist\, Michael Robotham was a feature writer and investigative reporter working in Britain\, Australia and America\, and with clinical and forensic psychologists as they helped police investigate complex\, psychologically driven crimes. 2024 marked the 20-year anniversary of the  publication of his debut thriller\, The Suspect\, which introduced clinical psychologist Joe O’Loughlin\, sold more than a million copies around the world and is now a major TV series starring Aidan Turner on ABC TV. Michael’s standalone thriller The Secrets She Keeps was adapted for TV by Network 10 and the BBC . Michael is the only Australian to twice win the UK’s prestigious Gold Dagger Award for best crime novel\, for Life or Death and Good Girl\, Bad Girl as well as the Ian Fleming Steel Dagger Award for When She Was Good. Lying Beside You was shortlisted for the Australian Crime Writers Association’s Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction 2023.  Storm Child\, the fourth novel in his globally bestselling Cyrus Haven and Evie Cormac series\, was a No. 1 national bestseller in Australia. The White Crow\, the second book in his Philomena McCarthy series\, following on from the internationally bestselling When You Are Mine was shortlisted for the 2025 Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction. Arlo’s story\, at the centre of Michael Robotham’s 20th novel\, Tell Me Something True\, has held a special place in his heart since he first dreamt of becoming a writer. Four decades later\, he’s ready to share it with readers for the first time. Michael lives in Sydney. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/the-big-teaser/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Burlesque ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/burlesque.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230924T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230924T200000 DTSTAMP:20230914T015134Z CREATED:20230705T042602Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230914T015134Z UID:41363-1695582000-1695585600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Minerva's Secrets | Night Tours DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 1\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tell Me Something True \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n MICHAEL IS COMING HOME: This is his 20th novel\, but the 1st to be set in Australia. This is a once-in-a-lifetime publishing event for a book destined to enter the Australian canon as a classic. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The astonishing\, emotional epic from Michael Robotham: a mystery\, a coming-of-age tale and a love story wrapped into one\, set against the simmering tensions of a small Australian town. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I look along the road and notice how many people are standing outside their houses or watching from doorways and windows. Staring. Studying. ‘Do you think this town will ever forgive me?’ I ask. ‘Not in a million years.’ \n \n Small towns are quick to anger and slow to forgive\, but Arlo Hackett doesn’t expect mercy when he emerges from a twelve-year prison sentence and makes his way back to Yulara\, a waypoint on Australia’s Great Southern Road. The last time Arlo was home\, his brother Luke was charged with a terrible crime and Arlo was found guilty by association. His return to the goldrush town is like cracking open a time capsule full of hatred and violence\, along with memories of the people he loved – the ones he couldn’t save. Yulara wants Arlo gone\, or worse\, but every insult and humiliation pushes him to confront what really happened all those years ago. The truth will shock you\, surprise you\, and break your heart. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early praise for Tell Me Something True \n \n ‘My book of the year. This compelling\, intriguing and entertaining masterpiece examines the conscience of a whole town and should win every award going. Genius’ LIZ NUGENT ‘Emotional\, startling and beautifully crafted; it brings small town Australia into your living room’ VAL MC DERMID ‘Most writers would be proud to produce\, in their entire career\, a book half as good as Tell Me Something True. No one can touch him when it comes to infusing crime with character and heart’ LINWOOD BARCLAY \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Michael Robotham | Photo Tony Mott\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham Before becoming a novelist\, Michael Robotham was a feature writer and investigative reporter working in Britain\, Australia and America\, and with clinical and forensic psychologists as they helped police investigate complex\, psychologically driven crimes. 2024 marked the 20-year anniversary of the  publication of his debut thriller\, The Suspect\, which introduced clinical psychologist Joe O’Loughlin\, sold more than a million copies around the world and is now a major TV series starring Aidan Turner on ABC TV. Michael’s standalone thriller The Secrets She Keeps was adapted for TV by Network 10 and the BBC . Michael is the only Australian to twice win the UK’s prestigious Gold Dagger Award for best crime novel\, for Life or Death and Good Girl\, Bad Girl as well as the Ian Fleming Steel Dagger Award for When She Was Good. Lying Beside You was shortlisted for the Australian Crime Writers Association’s Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction 2023.  Storm Child\, the fourth novel in his globally bestselling Cyrus Haven and Evie Cormac series\, was a No. 1 national bestseller in Australia. The White Crow\, the second book in his Philomena McCarthy series\, following on from the internationally bestselling When You Are Mine was shortlisted for the 2025 Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction. Arlo’s story\, at the centre of Michael Robotham’s 20th novel\, Tell Me Something True\, has held a special place in his heart since he first dreamt of becoming a writer. Four decades later\, he’s ready to share it with readers for the first time. Michael lives in Sydney. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/minervas-secrets-night-tours-5/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Fundraiser,Tours ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/night-tours-square.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230924T210000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230924T220000 DTSTAMP:20230914T015126Z CREATED:20230705T042605Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230914T015126Z UID:41364-1695589200-1695592800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Minerva's Secrets | Night Tours DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 1\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tell Me Something True \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n MICHAEL IS COMING HOME: This is his 20th novel\, but the 1st to be set in Australia. This is a once-in-a-lifetime publishing event for a book destined to enter the Australian canon as a classic. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The astonishing\, emotional epic from Michael Robotham: a mystery\, a coming-of-age tale and a love story wrapped into one\, set against the simmering tensions of a small Australian town. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I look along the road and notice how many people are standing outside their houses or watching from doorways and windows. Staring. Studying. ‘Do you think this town will ever forgive me?’ I ask. ‘Not in a million years.’ \n \n Small towns are quick to anger and slow to forgive\, but Arlo Hackett doesn’t expect mercy when he emerges from a twelve-year prison sentence and makes his way back to Yulara\, a waypoint on Australia’s Great Southern Road. The last time Arlo was home\, his brother Luke was charged with a terrible crime and Arlo was found guilty by association. His return to the goldrush town is like cracking open a time capsule full of hatred and violence\, along with memories of the people he loved – the ones he couldn’t save. Yulara wants Arlo gone\, or worse\, but every insult and humiliation pushes him to confront what really happened all those years ago. The truth will shock you\, surprise you\, and break your heart. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early praise for Tell Me Something True \n \n ‘My book of the year. This compelling\, intriguing and entertaining masterpiece examines the conscience of a whole town and should win every award going. Genius’ LIZ NUGENT ‘Emotional\, startling and beautifully crafted; it brings small town Australia into your living room’ VAL MC DERMID ‘Most writers would be proud to produce\, in their entire career\, a book half as good as Tell Me Something True. No one can touch him when it comes to infusing crime with character and heart’ LINWOOD BARCLAY \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Michael Robotham | Photo Tony Mott\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham Before becoming a novelist\, Michael Robotham was a feature writer and investigative reporter working in Britain\, Australia and America\, and with clinical and forensic psychologists as they helped police investigate complex\, psychologically driven crimes. 2024 marked the 20-year anniversary of the  publication of his debut thriller\, The Suspect\, which introduced clinical psychologist Joe O’Loughlin\, sold more than a million copies around the world and is now a major TV series starring Aidan Turner on ABC TV. Michael’s standalone thriller The Secrets She Keeps was adapted for TV by Network 10 and the BBC . Michael is the only Australian to twice win the UK’s prestigious Gold Dagger Award for best crime novel\, for Life or Death and Good Girl\, Bad Girl as well as the Ian Fleming Steel Dagger Award for When She Was Good. Lying Beside You was shortlisted for the Australian Crime Writers Association’s Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction 2023.  Storm Child\, the fourth novel in his globally bestselling Cyrus Haven and Evie Cormac series\, was a No. 1 national bestseller in Australia. The White Crow\, the second book in his Philomena McCarthy series\, following on from the internationally bestselling When You Are Mine was shortlisted for the 2025 Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction. Arlo’s story\, at the centre of Michael Robotham’s 20th novel\, Tell Me Something True\, has held a special place in his heart since he first dreamt of becoming a writer. Four decades later\, he’s ready to share it with readers for the first time. Michael lives in Sydney. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/minervas-secrets-night-tours-6/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Fundraiser,Tours ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/night-tours-square.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230928T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230928T200000 DTSTAMP:20230925T070216Z CREATED:20230804T042100Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230925T070216Z UID:42765-1695924000-1695931200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with Tania Farrelly DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 1\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tell Me Something True \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n MICHAEL IS COMING HOME: This is his 20th novel\, but the 1st to be set in Australia. This is a once-in-a-lifetime publishing event for a book destined to enter the Australian canon as a classic. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The astonishing\, emotional epic from Michael Robotham: a mystery\, a coming-of-age tale and a love story wrapped into one\, set against the simmering tensions of a small Australian town. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I look along the road and notice how many people are standing outside their houses or watching from doorways and windows. Staring. Studying. ‘Do you think this town will ever forgive me?’ I ask. ‘Not in a million years.’ \n \n Small towns are quick to anger and slow to forgive\, but Arlo Hackett doesn’t expect mercy when he emerges from a twelve-year prison sentence and makes his way back to Yulara\, a waypoint on Australia’s Great Southern Road. The last time Arlo was home\, his brother Luke was charged with a terrible crime and Arlo was found guilty by association. His return to the goldrush town is like cracking open a time capsule full of hatred and violence\, along with memories of the people he loved – the ones he couldn’t save. Yulara wants Arlo gone\, or worse\, but every insult and humiliation pushes him to confront what really happened all those years ago. The truth will shock you\, surprise you\, and break your heart. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early praise for Tell Me Something True \n \n ‘My book of the year. This compelling\, intriguing and entertaining masterpiece examines the conscience of a whole town and should win every award going. Genius’ LIZ NUGENT ‘Emotional\, startling and beautifully crafted; it brings small town Australia into your living room’ VAL MC DERMID ‘Most writers would be proud to produce\, in their entire career\, a book half as good as Tell Me Something True. No one can touch him when it comes to infusing crime with character and heart’ LINWOOD BARCLAY \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Michael Robotham | Photo Tony Mott\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham Before becoming a novelist\, Michael Robotham was a feature writer and investigative reporter working in Britain\, Australia and America\, and with clinical and forensic psychologists as they helped police investigate complex\, psychologically driven crimes. 2024 marked the 20-year anniversary of the  publication of his debut thriller\, The Suspect\, which introduced clinical psychologist Joe O’Loughlin\, sold more than a million copies around the world and is now a major TV series starring Aidan Turner on ABC TV. Michael’s standalone thriller The Secrets She Keeps was adapted for TV by Network 10 and the BBC . Michael is the only Australian to twice win the UK’s prestigious Gold Dagger Award for best crime novel\, for Life or Death and Good Girl\, Bad Girl as well as the Ian Fleming Steel Dagger Award for When She Was Good. Lying Beside You was shortlisted for the Australian Crime Writers Association’s Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction 2023.  Storm Child\, the fourth novel in his globally bestselling Cyrus Haven and Evie Cormac series\, was a No. 1 national bestseller in Australia. The White Crow\, the second book in his Philomena McCarthy series\, following on from the internationally bestselling When You Are Mine was shortlisted for the 2025 Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction. Arlo’s story\, at the centre of Michael Robotham’s 20th novel\, Tell Me Something True\, has held a special place in his heart since he first dreamt of becoming a writer. Four decades later\, he’s ready to share it with readers for the first time. Michael lives in Sydney. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/in-conversation-tania-farrelly/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/tania-farrelly-promotional-squre.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20231004T103000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20231004T113000 DTSTAMP:20230914T015032Z CREATED:20230717T010541Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230914T015032Z UID:41747-1696415400-1696419000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Day Tours of the Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute | Victorian Seniors Festival DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 1\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tell Me Something True \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n MICHAEL IS COMING HOME: This is his 20th novel\, but the 1st to be set in Australia. This is a once-in-a-lifetime publishing event for a book destined to enter the Australian canon as a classic. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The astonishing\, emotional epic from Michael Robotham: a mystery\, a coming-of-age tale and a love story wrapped into one\, set against the simmering tensions of a small Australian town. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I look along the road and notice how many people are standing outside their houses or watching from doorways and windows. Staring. Studying. ‘Do you think this town will ever forgive me?’ I ask. ‘Not in a million years.’ \n \n Small towns are quick to anger and slow to forgive\, but Arlo Hackett doesn’t expect mercy when he emerges from a twelve-year prison sentence and makes his way back to Yulara\, a waypoint on Australia’s Great Southern Road. The last time Arlo was home\, his brother Luke was charged with a terrible crime and Arlo was found guilty by association. His return to the goldrush town is like cracking open a time capsule full of hatred and violence\, along with memories of the people he loved – the ones he couldn’t save. Yulara wants Arlo gone\, or worse\, but every insult and humiliation pushes him to confront what really happened all those years ago. The truth will shock you\, surprise you\, and break your heart. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early praise for Tell Me Something True \n \n ‘My book of the year. This compelling\, intriguing and entertaining masterpiece examines the conscience of a whole town and should win every award going. Genius’ LIZ NUGENT ‘Emotional\, startling and beautifully crafted; it brings small town Australia into your living room’ VAL MC DERMID ‘Most writers would be proud to produce\, in their entire career\, a book half as good as Tell Me Something True. No one can touch him when it comes to infusing crime with character and heart’ LINWOOD BARCLAY \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Michael Robotham | Photo Tony Mott\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham Before becoming a novelist\, Michael Robotham was a feature writer and investigative reporter working in Britain\, Australia and America\, and with clinical and forensic psychologists as they helped police investigate complex\, psychologically driven crimes. 2024 marked the 20-year anniversary of the  publication of his debut thriller\, The Suspect\, which introduced clinical psychologist Joe O’Loughlin\, sold more than a million copies around the world and is now a major TV series starring Aidan Turner on ABC TV. Michael’s standalone thriller The Secrets She Keeps was adapted for TV by Network 10 and the BBC . Michael is the only Australian to twice win the UK’s prestigious Gold Dagger Award for best crime novel\, for Life or Death and Good Girl\, Bad Girl as well as the Ian Fleming Steel Dagger Award for When She Was Good. Lying Beside You was shortlisted for the Australian Crime Writers Association’s Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction 2023.  Storm Child\, the fourth novel in his globally bestselling Cyrus Haven and Evie Cormac series\, was a No. 1 national bestseller in Australia. The White Crow\, the second book in his Philomena McCarthy series\, following on from the internationally bestselling When You Are Mine was shortlisted for the 2025 Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction. Arlo’s story\, at the centre of Michael Robotham’s 20th novel\, Tell Me Something True\, has held a special place in his heart since he first dreamt of becoming a writer. Four decades later\, he’s ready to share it with readers for the first time. Michael lives in Sydney. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/day-tours-of-the-ballaarat-mechanics-institute-victorian-seniors-festival/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Tours ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/BMI-woodcut_bags.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20231004T103000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20231004T113000 DTSTAMP:20230914T015032Z CREATED:20230717T010541Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230914T015032Z UID:41747-1696415400-1696419000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Day Tours of the Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute | Victorian Seniors Festival DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 1\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tell Me Something True \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n MICHAEL IS COMING HOME: This is his 20th novel\, but the 1st to be set in Australia. This is a once-in-a-lifetime publishing event for a book destined to enter the Australian canon as a classic. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The astonishing\, emotional epic from Michael Robotham: a mystery\, a coming-of-age tale and a love story wrapped into one\, set against the simmering tensions of a small Australian town. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I look along the road and notice how many people are standing outside their houses or watching from doorways and windows. Staring. Studying. ‘Do you think this town will ever forgive me?’ I ask. ‘Not in a million years.’ \n \n Small towns are quick to anger and slow to forgive\, but Arlo Hackett doesn’t expect mercy when he emerges from a twelve-year prison sentence and makes his way back to Yulara\, a waypoint on Australia’s Great Southern Road. The last time Arlo was home\, his brother Luke was charged with a terrible crime and Arlo was found guilty by association. His return to the goldrush town is like cracking open a time capsule full of hatred and violence\, along with memories of the people he loved – the ones he couldn’t save. Yulara wants Arlo gone\, or worse\, but every insult and humiliation pushes him to confront what really happened all those years ago. The truth will shock you\, surprise you\, and break your heart. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early praise for Tell Me Something True \n \n ‘My book of the year. This compelling\, intriguing and entertaining masterpiece examines the conscience of a whole town and should win every award going. Genius’ LIZ NUGENT ‘Emotional\, startling and beautifully crafted; it brings small town Australia into your living room’ VAL MC DERMID ‘Most writers would be proud to produce\, in their entire career\, a book half as good as Tell Me Something True. No one can touch him when it comes to infusing crime with character and heart’ LINWOOD BARCLAY \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Michael Robotham | Photo Tony Mott\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham Before becoming a novelist\, Michael Robotham was a feature writer and investigative reporter working in Britain\, Australia and America\, and with clinical and forensic psychologists as they helped police investigate complex\, psychologically driven crimes. 2024 marked the 20-year anniversary of the  publication of his debut thriller\, The Suspect\, which introduced clinical psychologist Joe O’Loughlin\, sold more than a million copies around the world and is now a major TV series starring Aidan Turner on ABC TV. Michael’s standalone thriller The Secrets She Keeps was adapted for TV by Network 10 and the BBC . Michael is the only Australian to twice win the UK’s prestigious Gold Dagger Award for best crime novel\, for Life or Death and Good Girl\, Bad Girl as well as the Ian Fleming Steel Dagger Award for When She Was Good. Lying Beside You was shortlisted for the Australian Crime Writers Association’s Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction 2023.  Storm Child\, the fourth novel in his globally bestselling Cyrus Haven and Evie Cormac series\, was a No. 1 national bestseller in Australia. The White Crow\, the second book in his Philomena McCarthy series\, following on from the internationally bestselling When You Are Mine was shortlisted for the 2025 Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction. Arlo’s story\, at the centre of Michael Robotham’s 20th novel\, Tell Me Something True\, has held a special place in his heart since he first dreamt of becoming a writer. Four decades later\, he’s ready to share it with readers for the first time. Michael lives in Sydney. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/day-tours-of-the-ballaarat-mechanics-institute-victorian-seniors-festival/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Tours ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/BMI-woodcut_bags.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20231004T103000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20231004T113000 DTSTAMP:20230914T015032Z CREATED:20230717T010541Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230914T015032Z UID:41747-1696415400-1696419000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Day Tours of the Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute | Victorian Seniors Festival DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 1\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tell Me Something True \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n MICHAEL IS COMING HOME: This is his 20th novel\, but the 1st to be set in Australia. This is a once-in-a-lifetime publishing event for a book destined to enter the Australian canon as a classic. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The astonishing\, emotional epic from Michael Robotham: a mystery\, a coming-of-age tale and a love story wrapped into one\, set against the simmering tensions of a small Australian town. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I look along the road and notice how many people are standing outside their houses or watching from doorways and windows. Staring. Studying. ‘Do you think this town will ever forgive me?’ I ask. ‘Not in a million years.’ \n \n Small towns are quick to anger and slow to forgive\, but Arlo Hackett doesn’t expect mercy when he emerges from a twelve-year prison sentence and makes his way back to Yulara\, a waypoint on Australia’s Great Southern Road. The last time Arlo was home\, his brother Luke was charged with a terrible crime and Arlo was found guilty by association. His return to the goldrush town is like cracking open a time capsule full of hatred and violence\, along with memories of the people he loved – the ones he couldn’t save. Yulara wants Arlo gone\, or worse\, but every insult and humiliation pushes him to confront what really happened all those years ago. The truth will shock you\, surprise you\, and break your heart. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early praise for Tell Me Something True \n \n ‘My book of the year. This compelling\, intriguing and entertaining masterpiece examines the conscience of a whole town and should win every award going. Genius’ LIZ NUGENT ‘Emotional\, startling and beautifully crafted; it brings small town Australia into your living room’ VAL MC DERMID ‘Most writers would be proud to produce\, in their entire career\, a book half as good as Tell Me Something True. No one can touch him when it comes to infusing crime with character and heart’ LINWOOD BARCLAY \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Michael Robotham | Photo Tony Mott\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham Before becoming a novelist\, Michael Robotham was a feature writer and investigative reporter working in Britain\, Australia and America\, and with clinical and forensic psychologists as they helped police investigate complex\, psychologically driven crimes. 2024 marked the 20-year anniversary of the  publication of his debut thriller\, The Suspect\, which introduced clinical psychologist Joe O’Loughlin\, sold more than a million copies around the world and is now a major TV series starring Aidan Turner on ABC TV. Michael’s standalone thriller The Secrets She Keeps was adapted for TV by Network 10 and the BBC . Michael is the only Australian to twice win the UK’s prestigious Gold Dagger Award for best crime novel\, for Life or Death and Good Girl\, Bad Girl as well as the Ian Fleming Steel Dagger Award for When She Was Good. Lying Beside You was shortlisted for the Australian Crime Writers Association’s Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction 2023.  Storm Child\, the fourth novel in his globally bestselling Cyrus Haven and Evie Cormac series\, was a No. 1 national bestseller in Australia. The White Crow\, the second book in his Philomena McCarthy series\, following on from the internationally bestselling When You Are Mine was shortlisted for the 2025 Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction. Arlo’s story\, at the centre of Michael Robotham’s 20th novel\, Tell Me Something True\, has held a special place in his heart since he first dreamt of becoming a writer. Four decades later\, he’s ready to share it with readers for the first time. Michael lives in Sydney. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/day-tours-of-the-ballaarat-mechanics-institute-victorian-seniors-festival/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Tours ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/BMI-woodcut_bags.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20231005T183000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20231005T203000 DTSTAMP:20230925T070347Z CREATED:20230720T022135Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230925T070347Z UID:42008-1696530600-1696537800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with Clare Fletcher DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 1\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tell Me Something True \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n MICHAEL IS COMING HOME: This is his 20th novel\, but the 1st to be set in Australia. This is a once-in-a-lifetime publishing event for a book destined to enter the Australian canon as a classic. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The astonishing\, emotional epic from Michael Robotham: a mystery\, a coming-of-age tale and a love story wrapped into one\, set against the simmering tensions of a small Australian town. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I look along the road and notice how many people are standing outside their houses or watching from doorways and windows. Staring. Studying. ‘Do you think this town will ever forgive me?’ I ask. ‘Not in a million years.’ \n \n Small towns are quick to anger and slow to forgive\, but Arlo Hackett doesn’t expect mercy when he emerges from a twelve-year prison sentence and makes his way back to Yulara\, a waypoint on Australia’s Great Southern Road. The last time Arlo was home\, his brother Luke was charged with a terrible crime and Arlo was found guilty by association. His return to the goldrush town is like cracking open a time capsule full of hatred and violence\, along with memories of the people he loved – the ones he couldn’t save. Yulara wants Arlo gone\, or worse\, but every insult and humiliation pushes him to confront what really happened all those years ago. The truth will shock you\, surprise you\, and break your heart. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early praise for Tell Me Something True \n \n ‘My book of the year. This compelling\, intriguing and entertaining masterpiece examines the conscience of a whole town and should win every award going. Genius’ LIZ NUGENT ‘Emotional\, startling and beautifully crafted; it brings small town Australia into your living room’ VAL MC DERMID ‘Most writers would be proud to produce\, in their entire career\, a book half as good as Tell Me Something True. No one can touch him when it comes to infusing crime with character and heart’ LINWOOD BARCLAY \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Michael Robotham | Photo Tony Mott\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham Before becoming a novelist\, Michael Robotham was a feature writer and investigative reporter working in Britain\, Australia and America\, and with clinical and forensic psychologists as they helped police investigate complex\, psychologically driven crimes. 2024 marked the 20-year anniversary of the  publication of his debut thriller\, The Suspect\, which introduced clinical psychologist Joe O’Loughlin\, sold more than a million copies around the world and is now a major TV series starring Aidan Turner on ABC TV. Michael’s standalone thriller The Secrets She Keeps was adapted for TV by Network 10 and the BBC . Michael is the only Australian to twice win the UK’s prestigious Gold Dagger Award for best crime novel\, for Life or Death and Good Girl\, Bad Girl as well as the Ian Fleming Steel Dagger Award for When She Was Good. Lying Beside You was shortlisted for the Australian Crime Writers Association’s Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction 2023.  Storm Child\, the fourth novel in his globally bestselling Cyrus Haven and Evie Cormac series\, was a No. 1 national bestseller in Australia. The White Crow\, the second book in his Philomena McCarthy series\, following on from the internationally bestselling When You Are Mine was shortlisted for the 2025 Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction. Arlo’s story\, at the centre of Michael Robotham’s 20th novel\, Tell Me Something True\, has held a special place in his heart since he first dreamt of becoming a writer. Four decades later\, he’s ready to share it with readers for the first time. Michael lives in Sydney. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/in-conversation-clare-fletcher/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/promotional-square-clare-fletcher.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20231006T103000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20231006T120000 DTSTAMP:20231005T012725Z CREATED:20230713T231912Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231005T012725Z UID:41671-1696588200-1696593600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:The Photography of the BMI | Victorian Seniors Festival | Now fully Booked DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 1\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tell Me Something True \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n MICHAEL IS COMING HOME: This is his 20th novel\, but the 1st to be set in Australia. This is a once-in-a-lifetime publishing event for a book destined to enter the Australian canon as a classic. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The astonishing\, emotional epic from Michael Robotham: a mystery\, a coming-of-age tale and a love story wrapped into one\, set against the simmering tensions of a small Australian town. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I look along the road and notice how many people are standing outside their houses or watching from doorways and windows. Staring. Studying. ‘Do you think this town will ever forgive me?’ I ask. ‘Not in a million years.’ \n \n Small towns are quick to anger and slow to forgive\, but Arlo Hackett doesn’t expect mercy when he emerges from a twelve-year prison sentence and makes his way back to Yulara\, a waypoint on Australia’s Great Southern Road. The last time Arlo was home\, his brother Luke was charged with a terrible crime and Arlo was found guilty by association. His return to the goldrush town is like cracking open a time capsule full of hatred and violence\, along with memories of the people he loved – the ones he couldn’t save. Yulara wants Arlo gone\, or worse\, but every insult and humiliation pushes him to confront what really happened all those years ago. The truth will shock you\, surprise you\, and break your heart. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early praise for Tell Me Something True \n \n ‘My book of the year. This compelling\, intriguing and entertaining masterpiece examines the conscience of a whole town and should win every award going. Genius’ LIZ NUGENT ‘Emotional\, startling and beautifully crafted; it brings small town Australia into your living room’ VAL MC DERMID ‘Most writers would be proud to produce\, in their entire career\, a book half as good as Tell Me Something True. No one can touch him when it comes to infusing crime with character and heart’ LINWOOD BARCLAY \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Michael Robotham | Photo Tony Mott\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham Before becoming a novelist\, Michael Robotham was a feature writer and investigative reporter working in Britain\, Australia and America\, and with clinical and forensic psychologists as they helped police investigate complex\, psychologically driven crimes. 2024 marked the 20-year anniversary of the  publication of his debut thriller\, The Suspect\, which introduced clinical psychologist Joe O’Loughlin\, sold more than a million copies around the world and is now a major TV series starring Aidan Turner on ABC TV. Michael’s standalone thriller The Secrets She Keeps was adapted for TV by Network 10 and the BBC . Michael is the only Australian to twice win the UK’s prestigious Gold Dagger Award for best crime novel\, for Life or Death and Good Girl\, Bad Girl as well as the Ian Fleming Steel Dagger Award for When She Was Good. Lying Beside You was shortlisted for the Australian Crime Writers Association’s Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction 2023.  Storm Child\, the fourth novel in his globally bestselling Cyrus Haven and Evie Cormac series\, was a No. 1 national bestseller in Australia. The White Crow\, the second book in his Philomena McCarthy series\, following on from the internationally bestselling When You Are Mine was shortlisted for the 2025 Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction. Arlo’s story\, at the centre of Michael Robotham’s 20th novel\, Tell Me Something True\, has held a special place in his heart since he first dreamt of becoming a writer. Four decades later\, he’s ready to share it with readers for the first time. Michael lives in Sydney. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/photography-bmi-seniors-festival/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Exhibition ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/MH-1900-Lydiard-St-Flood-1983.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20231007 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20231010 DTSTAMP:20230922T033348Z CREATED:20230808T040719Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230922T033348Z UID:43076-1696640400-1696813199@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Spring Book Sale DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 1\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tell Me Something True \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n MICHAEL IS COMING HOME: This is his 20th novel\, but the 1st to be set in Australia. This is a once-in-a-lifetime publishing event for a book destined to enter the Australian canon as a classic. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The astonishing\, emotional epic from Michael Robotham: a mystery\, a coming-of-age tale and a love story wrapped into one\, set against the simmering tensions of a small Australian town. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I look along the road and notice how many people are standing outside their houses or watching from doorways and windows. Staring. Studying. ‘Do you think this town will ever forgive me?’ I ask. ‘Not in a million years.’ \n \n Small towns are quick to anger and slow to forgive\, but Arlo Hackett doesn’t expect mercy when he emerges from a twelve-year prison sentence and makes his way back to Yulara\, a waypoint on Australia’s Great Southern Road. The last time Arlo was home\, his brother Luke was charged with a terrible crime and Arlo was found guilty by association. His return to the goldrush town is like cracking open a time capsule full of hatred and violence\, along with memories of the people he loved – the ones he couldn’t save. Yulara wants Arlo gone\, or worse\, but every insult and humiliation pushes him to confront what really happened all those years ago. The truth will shock you\, surprise you\, and break your heart. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early praise for Tell Me Something True \n \n ‘My book of the year. This compelling\, intriguing and entertaining masterpiece examines the conscience of a whole town and should win every award going. Genius’ LIZ NUGENT ‘Emotional\, startling and beautifully crafted; it brings small town Australia into your living room’ VAL MC DERMID ‘Most writers would be proud to produce\, in their entire career\, a book half as good as Tell Me Something True. No one can touch him when it comes to infusing crime with character and heart’ LINWOOD BARCLAY \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Michael Robotham | Photo Tony Mott\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham Before becoming a novelist\, Michael Robotham was a feature writer and investigative reporter working in Britain\, Australia and America\, and with clinical and forensic psychologists as they helped police investigate complex\, psychologically driven crimes. 2024 marked the 20-year anniversary of the  publication of his debut thriller\, The Suspect\, which introduced clinical psychologist Joe O’Loughlin\, sold more than a million copies around the world and is now a major TV series starring Aidan Turner on ABC TV. Michael’s standalone thriller The Secrets She Keeps was adapted for TV by Network 10 and the BBC . Michael is the only Australian to twice win the UK’s prestigious Gold Dagger Award for best crime novel\, for Life or Death and Good Girl\, Bad Girl as well as the Ian Fleming Steel Dagger Award for When She Was Good. Lying Beside You was shortlisted for the Australian Crime Writers Association’s Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction 2023.  Storm Child\, the fourth novel in his globally bestselling Cyrus Haven and Evie Cormac series\, was a No. 1 national bestseller in Australia. The White Crow\, the second book in his Philomena McCarthy series\, following on from the internationally bestselling When You Are Mine was shortlisted for the 2025 Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction. Arlo’s story\, at the centre of Michael Robotham’s 20th novel\, Tell Me Something True\, has held a special place in his heart since he first dreamt of becoming a writer. Four decades later\, he’s ready to share it with readers for the first time. Michael lives in Sydney. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/spring-book-sale/ LOCATION:Library Ground Floor\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Fundraiser,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/pexels-clem-onojeghuo-375892.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20231010T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20231010T203000 DTSTAMP:20230925T070618Z CREATED:20230920T235838Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230925T070618Z UID:45516-1696966200-1696969800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Unsettling: An insight into landscape change from Barry Golding DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 1\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tell Me Something True \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n MICHAEL IS COMING HOME: This is his 20th novel\, but the 1st to be set in Australia. This is a once-in-a-lifetime publishing event for a book destined to enter the Australian canon as a classic. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The astonishing\, emotional epic from Michael Robotham: a mystery\, a coming-of-age tale and a love story wrapped into one\, set against the simmering tensions of a small Australian town. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I look along the road and notice how many people are standing outside their houses or watching from doorways and windows. Staring. Studying. ‘Do you think this town will ever forgive me?’ I ask. ‘Not in a million years.’ \n \n Small towns are quick to anger and slow to forgive\, but Arlo Hackett doesn’t expect mercy when he emerges from a twelve-year prison sentence and makes his way back to Yulara\, a waypoint on Australia’s Great Southern Road. The last time Arlo was home\, his brother Luke was charged with a terrible crime and Arlo was found guilty by association. His return to the goldrush town is like cracking open a time capsule full of hatred and violence\, along with memories of the people he loved – the ones he couldn’t save. Yulara wants Arlo gone\, or worse\, but every insult and humiliation pushes him to confront what really happened all those years ago. The truth will shock you\, surprise you\, and break your heart. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early praise for Tell Me Something True \n \n ‘My book of the year. This compelling\, intriguing and entertaining masterpiece examines the conscience of a whole town and should win every award going. Genius’ LIZ NUGENT ‘Emotional\, startling and beautifully crafted; it brings small town Australia into your living room’ VAL MC DERMID ‘Most writers would be proud to produce\, in their entire career\, a book half as good as Tell Me Something True. No one can touch him when it comes to infusing crime with character and heart’ LINWOOD BARCLAY \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Michael Robotham | Photo Tony Mott\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham Before becoming a novelist\, Michael Robotham was a feature writer and investigative reporter working in Britain\, Australia and America\, and with clinical and forensic psychologists as they helped police investigate complex\, psychologically driven crimes. 2024 marked the 20-year anniversary of the  publication of his debut thriller\, The Suspect\, which introduced clinical psychologist Joe O’Loughlin\, sold more than a million copies around the world and is now a major TV series starring Aidan Turner on ABC TV. Michael’s standalone thriller The Secrets She Keeps was adapted for TV by Network 10 and the BBC . Michael is the only Australian to twice win the UK’s prestigious Gold Dagger Award for best crime novel\, for Life or Death and Good Girl\, Bad Girl as well as the Ian Fleming Steel Dagger Award for When She Was Good. Lying Beside You was shortlisted for the Australian Crime Writers Association’s Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction 2023.  Storm Child\, the fourth novel in his globally bestselling Cyrus Haven and Evie Cormac series\, was a No. 1 national bestseller in Australia. The White Crow\, the second book in his Philomena McCarthy series\, following on from the internationally bestselling When You Are Mine was shortlisted for the 2025 Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction. Arlo’s story\, at the centre of Michael Robotham’s 20th novel\, Tell Me Something True\, has held a special place in his heart since he first dreamt of becoming a writer. Four decades later\, he’s ready to share it with readers for the first time. Michael lives in Sydney. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/unsettling-conservation-six-peaks/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Culture,Indigenous,Talk ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/promo-square-3.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20231011T110000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20231011T150000 DTSTAMP:20230912T044823Z CREATED:20221108T012452Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230912T044823Z UID:24713-1697022000-1697036400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Card Making with Fay Marshall | Victorian Seniors Festival DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 1\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tell Me Something True \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n MICHAEL IS COMING HOME: This is his 20th novel\, but the 1st to be set in Australia. This is a once-in-a-lifetime publishing event for a book destined to enter the Australian canon as a classic. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The astonishing\, emotional epic from Michael Robotham: a mystery\, a coming-of-age tale and a love story wrapped into one\, set against the simmering tensions of a small Australian town. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I look along the road and notice how many people are standing outside their houses or watching from doorways and windows. Staring. Studying. ‘Do you think this town will ever forgive me?’ I ask. ‘Not in a million years.’ \n \n Small towns are quick to anger and slow to forgive\, but Arlo Hackett doesn’t expect mercy when he emerges from a twelve-year prison sentence and makes his way back to Yulara\, a waypoint on Australia’s Great Southern Road. The last time Arlo was home\, his brother Luke was charged with a terrible crime and Arlo was found guilty by association. His return to the goldrush town is like cracking open a time capsule full of hatred and violence\, along with memories of the people he loved – the ones he couldn’t save. Yulara wants Arlo gone\, or worse\, but every insult and humiliation pushes him to confront what really happened all those years ago. The truth will shock you\, surprise you\, and break your heart. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early praise for Tell Me Something True \n \n ‘My book of the year. This compelling\, intriguing and entertaining masterpiece examines the conscience of a whole town and should win every award going. Genius’ LIZ NUGENT ‘Emotional\, startling and beautifully crafted; it brings small town Australia into your living room’ VAL MC DERMID ‘Most writers would be proud to produce\, in their entire career\, a book half as good as Tell Me Something True. No one can touch him when it comes to infusing crime with character and heart’ LINWOOD BARCLAY \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Michael Robotham | Photo Tony Mott\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham Before becoming a novelist\, Michael Robotham was a feature writer and investigative reporter working in Britain\, Australia and America\, and with clinical and forensic psychologists as they helped police investigate complex\, psychologically driven crimes. 2024 marked the 20-year anniversary of the  publication of his debut thriller\, The Suspect\, which introduced clinical psychologist Joe O’Loughlin\, sold more than a million copies around the world and is now a major TV series starring Aidan Turner on ABC TV. Michael’s standalone thriller The Secrets She Keeps was adapted for TV by Network 10 and the BBC . Michael is the only Australian to twice win the UK’s prestigious Gold Dagger Award for best crime novel\, for Life or Death and Good Girl\, Bad Girl as well as the Ian Fleming Steel Dagger Award for When She Was Good. Lying Beside You was shortlisted for the Australian Crime Writers Association’s Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction 2023.  Storm Child\, the fourth novel in his globally bestselling Cyrus Haven and Evie Cormac series\, was a No. 1 national bestseller in Australia. The White Crow\, the second book in his Philomena McCarthy series\, following on from the internationally bestselling When You Are Mine was shortlisted for the 2025 Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction. Arlo’s story\, at the centre of Michael Robotham’s 20th novel\, Tell Me Something True\, has held a special place in his heart since he first dreamt of becoming a writer. Four decades later\, he’s ready to share it with readers for the first time. Michael lives in Sydney. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/cardmaking-with-fay-marshall-seniors-festival/ LOCATION:Heritage Reading Room\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Art programs ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Little_girl_adjusted_for_website_info.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20231011T171500 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20231011T191500 DTSTAMP:20230926T032150Z CREATED:20230910T235657Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230926T032150Z UID:44762-1697044500-1697051700@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Past Truths/Bright Futures DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 1\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tell Me Something True \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n MICHAEL IS COMING HOME: This is his 20th novel\, but the 1st to be set in Australia. This is a once-in-a-lifetime publishing event for a book destined to enter the Australian canon as a classic. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The astonishing\, emotional epic from Michael Robotham: a mystery\, a coming-of-age tale and a love story wrapped into one\, set against the simmering tensions of a small Australian town. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I look along the road and notice how many people are standing outside their houses or watching from doorways and windows. Staring. Studying. ‘Do you think this town will ever forgive me?’ I ask. ‘Not in a million years.’ \n \n Small towns are quick to anger and slow to forgive\, but Arlo Hackett doesn’t expect mercy when he emerges from a twelve-year prison sentence and makes his way back to Yulara\, a waypoint on Australia’s Great Southern Road. The last time Arlo was home\, his brother Luke was charged with a terrible crime and Arlo was found guilty by association. His return to the goldrush town is like cracking open a time capsule full of hatred and violence\, along with memories of the people he loved – the ones he couldn’t save. Yulara wants Arlo gone\, or worse\, but every insult and humiliation pushes him to confront what really happened all those years ago. The truth will shock you\, surprise you\, and break your heart. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early praise for Tell Me Something True \n \n ‘My book of the year. This compelling\, intriguing and entertaining masterpiece examines the conscience of a whole town and should win every award going. Genius’ LIZ NUGENT ‘Emotional\, startling and beautifully crafted; it brings small town Australia into your living room’ VAL MC DERMID ‘Most writers would be proud to produce\, in their entire career\, a book half as good as Tell Me Something True. No one can touch him when it comes to infusing crime with character and heart’ LINWOOD BARCLAY \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Michael Robotham | Photo Tony Mott\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham Before becoming a novelist\, Michael Robotham was a feature writer and investigative reporter working in Britain\, Australia and America\, and with clinical and forensic psychologists as they helped police investigate complex\, psychologically driven crimes. 2024 marked the 20-year anniversary of the  publication of his debut thriller\, The Suspect\, which introduced clinical psychologist Joe O’Loughlin\, sold more than a million copies around the world and is now a major TV series starring Aidan Turner on ABC TV. Michael’s standalone thriller The Secrets She Keeps was adapted for TV by Network 10 and the BBC . Michael is the only Australian to twice win the UK’s prestigious Gold Dagger Award for best crime novel\, for Life or Death and Good Girl\, Bad Girl as well as the Ian Fleming Steel Dagger Award for When She Was Good. Lying Beside You was shortlisted for the Australian Crime Writers Association’s Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction 2023.  Storm Child\, the fourth novel in his globally bestselling Cyrus Haven and Evie Cormac series\, was a No. 1 national bestseller in Australia. The White Crow\, the second book in his Philomena McCarthy series\, following on from the internationally bestselling When You Are Mine was shortlisted for the 2025 Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction. Arlo’s story\, at the centre of Michael Robotham’s 20th novel\, Tell Me Something True\, has held a special place in his heart since he first dreamt of becoming a writer. Four decades later\, he’s ready to share it with readers for the first time. Michael lives in Sydney. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/past-truths-bright-futures/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Culture,Film,Indigenous,Talk ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/yot-squre-publicity.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20231012T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20231012T210000 DTSTAMP:20230912T011345Z CREATED:20230202T033132Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230912T011345Z UID:33975-1697139000-1697144400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Ballarat Film Society - Lo and Behold: Reveries of the Connected World DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 1\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tell Me Something True \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n MICHAEL IS COMING HOME: This is his 20th novel\, but the 1st to be set in Australia. This is a once-in-a-lifetime publishing event for a book destined to enter the Australian canon as a classic. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The astonishing\, emotional epic from Michael Robotham: a mystery\, a coming-of-age tale and a love story wrapped into one\, set against the simmering tensions of a small Australian town. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I look along the road and notice how many people are standing outside their houses or watching from doorways and windows. Staring. Studying. ‘Do you think this town will ever forgive me?’ I ask. ‘Not in a million years.’ \n \n Small towns are quick to anger and slow to forgive\, but Arlo Hackett doesn’t expect mercy when he emerges from a twelve-year prison sentence and makes his way back to Yulara\, a waypoint on Australia’s Great Southern Road. The last time Arlo was home\, his brother Luke was charged with a terrible crime and Arlo was found guilty by association. His return to the goldrush town is like cracking open a time capsule full of hatred and violence\, along with memories of the people he loved – the ones he couldn’t save. Yulara wants Arlo gone\, or worse\, but every insult and humiliation pushes him to confront what really happened all those years ago. The truth will shock you\, surprise you\, and break your heart. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early praise for Tell Me Something True \n \n ‘My book of the year. This compelling\, intriguing and entertaining masterpiece examines the conscience of a whole town and should win every award going. Genius’ LIZ NUGENT ‘Emotional\, startling and beautifully crafted; it brings small town Australia into your living room’ VAL MC DERMID ‘Most writers would be proud to produce\, in their entire career\, a book half as good as Tell Me Something True. No one can touch him when it comes to infusing crime with character and heart’ LINWOOD BARCLAY \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Michael Robotham | Photo Tony Mott\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham Before becoming a novelist\, Michael Robotham was a feature writer and investigative reporter working in Britain\, Australia and America\, and with clinical and forensic psychologists as they helped police investigate complex\, psychologically driven crimes. 2024 marked the 20-year anniversary of the  publication of his debut thriller\, The Suspect\, which introduced clinical psychologist Joe O’Loughlin\, sold more than a million copies around the world and is now a major TV series starring Aidan Turner on ABC TV. Michael’s standalone thriller The Secrets She Keeps was adapted for TV by Network 10 and the BBC . Michael is the only Australian to twice win the UK’s prestigious Gold Dagger Award for best crime novel\, for Life or Death and Good Girl\, Bad Girl as well as the Ian Fleming Steel Dagger Award for When She Was Good. Lying Beside You was shortlisted for the Australian Crime Writers Association’s Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction 2023.  Storm Child\, the fourth novel in his globally bestselling Cyrus Haven and Evie Cormac series\, was a No. 1 national bestseller in Australia. The White Crow\, the second book in his Philomena McCarthy series\, following on from the internationally bestselling When You Are Mine was shortlisted for the 2025 Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction. Arlo’s story\, at the centre of Michael Robotham’s 20th novel\, Tell Me Something True\, has held a special place in his heart since he first dreamt of becoming a writer. Four decades later\, he’s ready to share it with readers for the first time. Michael lives in Sydney. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/bfs-loandbehold/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Ballarat Film Society,Externally Produced Event,Film ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/1200x675mf.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20231018T140000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20231018T150000 DTSTAMP:20230912T044500Z CREATED:20230718T050004Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230912T044500Z UID:41876-1697637600-1697641200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:A Talk by Dr Phil Roberts OAM | Under Minerva's Gaze | Victorian Seniors Festival DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 1\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tell Me Something True \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n MICHAEL IS COMING HOME: This is his 20th novel\, but the 1st to be set in Australia. This is a once-in-a-lifetime publishing event for a book destined to enter the Australian canon as a classic. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The astonishing\, emotional epic from Michael Robotham: a mystery\, a coming-of-age tale and a love story wrapped into one\, set against the simmering tensions of a small Australian town. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I look along the road and notice how many people are standing outside their houses or watching from doorways and windows. Staring. Studying. ‘Do you think this town will ever forgive me?’ I ask. ‘Not in a million years.’ \n \n Small towns are quick to anger and slow to forgive\, but Arlo Hackett doesn’t expect mercy when he emerges from a twelve-year prison sentence and makes his way back to Yulara\, a waypoint on Australia’s Great Southern Road. The last time Arlo was home\, his brother Luke was charged with a terrible crime and Arlo was found guilty by association. His return to the goldrush town is like cracking open a time capsule full of hatred and violence\, along with memories of the people he loved – the ones he couldn’t save. Yulara wants Arlo gone\, or worse\, but every insult and humiliation pushes him to confront what really happened all those years ago. The truth will shock you\, surprise you\, and break your heart. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early praise for Tell Me Something True \n \n ‘My book of the year. This compelling\, intriguing and entertaining masterpiece examines the conscience of a whole town and should win every award going. Genius’ LIZ NUGENT ‘Emotional\, startling and beautifully crafted; it brings small town Australia into your living room’ VAL MC DERMID ‘Most writers would be proud to produce\, in their entire career\, a book half as good as Tell Me Something True. No one can touch him when it comes to infusing crime with character and heart’ LINWOOD BARCLAY \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Michael Robotham | Photo Tony Mott\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham Before becoming a novelist\, Michael Robotham was a feature writer and investigative reporter working in Britain\, Australia and America\, and with clinical and forensic psychologists as they helped police investigate complex\, psychologically driven crimes. 2024 marked the 20-year anniversary of the  publication of his debut thriller\, The Suspect\, which introduced clinical psychologist Joe O’Loughlin\, sold more than a million copies around the world and is now a major TV series starring Aidan Turner on ABC TV. Michael’s standalone thriller The Secrets She Keeps was adapted for TV by Network 10 and the BBC . Michael is the only Australian to twice win the UK’s prestigious Gold Dagger Award for best crime novel\, for Life or Death and Good Girl\, Bad Girl as well as the Ian Fleming Steel Dagger Award for When She Was Good. Lying Beside You was shortlisted for the Australian Crime Writers Association’s Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction 2023.  Storm Child\, the fourth novel in his globally bestselling Cyrus Haven and Evie Cormac series\, was a No. 1 national bestseller in Australia. The White Crow\, the second book in his Philomena McCarthy series\, following on from the internationally bestselling When You Are Mine was shortlisted for the 2025 Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction. Arlo’s story\, at the centre of Michael Robotham’s 20th novel\, Tell Me Something True\, has held a special place in his heart since he first dreamt of becoming a writer. Four decades later\, he’s ready to share it with readers for the first time. Michael lives in Sydney. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/under-minervas-gaze-seniors-festival/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Talk ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/BMI_upshot_evening-1.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20231022T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20231022T200000 DTSTAMP:20230914T015104Z CREATED:20230705T043021Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230914T015104Z UID:41368-1698001200-1698004800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Minerva's Secrets | Night Tours DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 1\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tell Me Something True \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n MICHAEL IS COMING HOME: This is his 20th novel\, but the 1st to be set in Australia. This is a once-in-a-lifetime publishing event for a book destined to enter the Australian canon as a classic. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The astonishing\, emotional epic from Michael Robotham: a mystery\, a coming-of-age tale and a love story wrapped into one\, set against the simmering tensions of a small Australian town. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I look along the road and notice how many people are standing outside their houses or watching from doorways and windows. Staring. Studying. ‘Do you think this town will ever forgive me?’ I ask. ‘Not in a million years.’ \n \n Small towns are quick to anger and slow to forgive\, but Arlo Hackett doesn’t expect mercy when he emerges from a twelve-year prison sentence and makes his way back to Yulara\, a waypoint on Australia’s Great Southern Road. The last time Arlo was home\, his brother Luke was charged with a terrible crime and Arlo was found guilty by association. His return to the goldrush town is like cracking open a time capsule full of hatred and violence\, along with memories of the people he loved – the ones he couldn’t save. Yulara wants Arlo gone\, or worse\, but every insult and humiliation pushes him to confront what really happened all those years ago. The truth will shock you\, surprise you\, and break your heart. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early praise for Tell Me Something True \n \n ‘My book of the year. This compelling\, intriguing and entertaining masterpiece examines the conscience of a whole town and should win every award going. Genius’ LIZ NUGENT ‘Emotional\, startling and beautifully crafted; it brings small town Australia into your living room’ VAL MC DERMID ‘Most writers would be proud to produce\, in their entire career\, a book half as good as Tell Me Something True. No one can touch him when it comes to infusing crime with character and heart’ LINWOOD BARCLAY \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Michael Robotham | Photo Tony Mott\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham Before becoming a novelist\, Michael Robotham was a feature writer and investigative reporter working in Britain\, Australia and America\, and with clinical and forensic psychologists as they helped police investigate complex\, psychologically driven crimes. 2024 marked the 20-year anniversary of the  publication of his debut thriller\, The Suspect\, which introduced clinical psychologist Joe O’Loughlin\, sold more than a million copies around the world and is now a major TV series starring Aidan Turner on ABC TV. Michael’s standalone thriller The Secrets She Keeps was adapted for TV by Network 10 and the BBC . Michael is the only Australian to twice win the UK’s prestigious Gold Dagger Award for best crime novel\, for Life or Death and Good Girl\, Bad Girl as well as the Ian Fleming Steel Dagger Award for When She Was Good. Lying Beside You was shortlisted for the Australian Crime Writers Association’s Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction 2023.  Storm Child\, the fourth novel in his globally bestselling Cyrus Haven and Evie Cormac series\, was a No. 1 national bestseller in Australia. The White Crow\, the second book in his Philomena McCarthy series\, following on from the internationally bestselling When You Are Mine was shortlisted for the 2025 Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction. Arlo’s story\, at the centre of Michael Robotham’s 20th novel\, Tell Me Something True\, has held a special place in his heart since he first dreamt of becoming a writer. Four decades later\, he’s ready to share it with readers for the first time. Michael lives in Sydney. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/minervas-secrets-night-tours-7/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Fundraiser,Tours ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/night-tours-square.png END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR