BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute - ECPv6.15.20//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:Australia/Melbourne BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+1100 TZOFFSETTO:+1000 TZNAME:AEST DTSTART:20230401T160000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+1000 TZOFFSETTO:+1100 TZNAME:AEDT DTSTART:20230930T160000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+1100 TZOFFSETTO:+1000 TZNAME:AEST DTSTART:20240406T160000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+1000 TZOFFSETTO:+1100 TZNAME:AEDT DTSTART:20241005T160000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+1100 TZOFFSETTO:+1000 TZNAME:AEST DTSTART:20250405T160000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+1000 TZOFFSETTO:+1100 TZNAME:AEDT DTSTART:20251004T160000 END:DAYLIGHT END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240811T103000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240817T213000 DTSTAMP:20260417T064715 CREATED:20240717T001750Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250325T064952Z UID:57361-1723372200-1723930200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Royal South Street Society | Freemasons Vocal Competition DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Anna Johnston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 30\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n8:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.78 \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 When lemons give you life \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anna Johnston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ‘Smart\, authentic and full of heart’ – Graeme Simsion \n \n From the author of The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Redemption is a dish best served warm… \n \n Retired Michelin-star chef Griff Barlow has lost his appetite for life. Widowed\, grieving and living in an aged care facility where beige slop passes for food\, Griff is done – with guilt\, with loneliness and with the lie that made headlines when he was diagnosed with dementia. Planning one final act\, Griff breaks into the nursing home kitchen to cook one last lemon tart. But the simple act of cooking awakens a long-forgotten joy and soon he’s restoring flavour\, dignity and delight to his fellow residents. Meanwhile\, his estranged sister\, Lisa\, is grappling with a late-in-life ADHD diagnosis\, an unexpected romance and a frightening health reality of her own. As secrets simmer and second chances collide\, both siblings are forced to confront what it really means to choose life. \n \n Drawing on Anna Johnston’s experience working in aged care\, the novel offers a rare and compassionate perspective on how people diagnosed with dementia are often dismissed\, underestimated and quietly erased. By telling the story through the eyes of a man who carries the diagnosis yet remains fully lucid\, the book invites readers to experience\, from the inside\, what it feels like to be unseen. \n \n Described as ‘Ratatouille meets A Man Called Ove’\, Anna Johnston’s second novel blends warmth\, humour and emotional depth while tackling timely conversations around ageing\, dementia\, neurodiversity\, LGBTQIA+ visibility in aged care\, and the power of everyday kindness. It is about being seen\, by others\, and by ourselves\, and about the possibility of reconciliation\, healing and second chances at any stage of life. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Anna Johnston\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anna Johnston is a former baby\, aspiring octogenarian and Australian author with a love for the heartfelt and hilarious. She grew up in country Victoria before moving to Melbourne where she lives with her husband and daughters. Anna followed her heart into her grandfather’s nursing home where she became the social support coordinator\, taking great delight in shaking up the usual program. When injury left her unable to continue working in aged care\, she began to write about it\, channelling her love for older people onto the page. Anna’s debut novel The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife became a international bestseller and has been optioned by Netflix. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Praise for When lemons give you life \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event will be supported by Collins Booksellers on Lydiard \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ‘An absolute chef’s kiss of a novel\, prepared with heart and humour\, guaranteed to please your palate.’ Troy Hunter\, author of Gus and the Missing Boy‘Smart\, authentic and full of heart.’ Graeme Simsion\, internationally bestselling author of The Rosie Project‘Written with empathy\, insight and authenticity\, When Lemons Give You Life is a delicious journey from regret to reconciliation. Heartfelt\, funny and uplifting.’ Julietta Henderson\, bestselling author of The Funny Thing About Norman Foreman ‘For the burnt-out and world-weary\, Anna Johnston’s novels offer essential therapy – wickedly funny stories about flawed heroes with the power to  restore our faith in each other.’ Kirsten Miller\, author of Lula Dean’s Little Library of Banned Books ‘A delicious treat of a novel\, rich with thecomplex flavours of love\, loss\, familial relationships and redemption. I adored it.’ Emma Grey\, internationally bestselling author of Pictures of You ‘Anna Johnston imbues her characters with a warmth\, tenderness and singularity that makes them irresistible. A charming tale of redemption\, complex sibling bonds and the joy of a meal cooked with love\, this book will leave your heart full and your tastebuds ignited.’ Mikki Brammer\,  internationally bestselling author of The Collected Regrets of Clover \n \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/freemasons-vocal-competition/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Important Dates,Royal South Street Society ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/vocal-e1721174871956.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240814T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240814T203000 DTSTAMP:20260417T064715 CREATED:20240520T011424Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240520T013843Z UID:55297-1723662000-1723667400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Kadampa Meditation Series | Happiness\, Success & the Law of Karma DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Anna Johnston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 30\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n8:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.78 \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 When lemons give you life \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anna Johnston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ‘Smart\, authentic and full of heart’ – Graeme Simsion \n \n From the author of The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Redemption is a dish best served warm… \n \n Retired Michelin-star chef Griff Barlow has lost his appetite for life. Widowed\, grieving and living in an aged care facility where beige slop passes for food\, Griff is done – with guilt\, with loneliness and with the lie that made headlines when he was diagnosed with dementia. Planning one final act\, Griff breaks into the nursing home kitchen to cook one last lemon tart. But the simple act of cooking awakens a long-forgotten joy and soon he’s restoring flavour\, dignity and delight to his fellow residents. Meanwhile\, his estranged sister\, Lisa\, is grappling with a late-in-life ADHD diagnosis\, an unexpected romance and a frightening health reality of her own. As secrets simmer and second chances collide\, both siblings are forced to confront what it really means to choose life. \n \n Drawing on Anna Johnston’s experience working in aged care\, the novel offers a rare and compassionate perspective on how people diagnosed with dementia are often dismissed\, underestimated and quietly erased. By telling the story through the eyes of a man who carries the diagnosis yet remains fully lucid\, the book invites readers to experience\, from the inside\, what it feels like to be unseen. \n \n Described as ‘Ratatouille meets A Man Called Ove’\, Anna Johnston’s second novel blends warmth\, humour and emotional depth while tackling timely conversations around ageing\, dementia\, neurodiversity\, LGBTQIA+ visibility in aged care\, and the power of everyday kindness. It is about being seen\, by others\, and by ourselves\, and about the possibility of reconciliation\, healing and second chances at any stage of life. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Anna Johnston\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anna Johnston is a former baby\, aspiring octogenarian and Australian author with a love for the heartfelt and hilarious. She grew up in country Victoria before moving to Melbourne where she lives with her husband and daughters. Anna followed her heart into her grandfather’s nursing home where she became the social support coordinator\, taking great delight in shaking up the usual program. When injury left her unable to continue working in aged care\, she began to write about it\, channelling her love for older people onto the page. Anna’s debut novel The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife became a international bestseller and has been optioned by Netflix. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Praise for When lemons give you life \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event will be supported by Collins Booksellers on Lydiard \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ‘An absolute chef’s kiss of a novel\, prepared with heart and humour\, guaranteed to please your palate.’ Troy Hunter\, author of Gus and the Missing Boy‘Smart\, authentic and full of heart.’ Graeme Simsion\, internationally bestselling author of The Rosie Project‘Written with empathy\, insight and authenticity\, When Lemons Give You Life is a delicious journey from regret to reconciliation. Heartfelt\, funny and uplifting.’ Julietta Henderson\, bestselling author of The Funny Thing About Norman Foreman ‘For the burnt-out and world-weary\, Anna Johnston’s novels offer essential therapy – wickedly funny stories about flawed heroes with the power to  restore our faith in each other.’ Kirsten Miller\, author of Lula Dean’s Little Library of Banned Books ‘A delicious treat of a novel\, rich with thecomplex flavours of love\, loss\, familial relationships and redemption. I adored it.’ Emma Grey\, internationally bestselling author of Pictures of You ‘Anna Johnston imbues her characters with a warmth\, tenderness and singularity that makes them irresistible. A charming tale of redemption\, complex sibling bonds and the joy of a meal cooked with love\, this book will leave your heart full and your tastebuds ignited.’ Mikki Brammer\,  internationally bestselling author of The Collected Regrets of Clover \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/kadampa-meditation-series-14-aug-24/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:kadampa ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Meditation-Class-Ballarat-Q2-24-Flyer-1-event-image.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240819T173000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240819T213000 DTSTAMP:20260417T064715 CREATED:20240716T061946Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250325T063056Z UID:57341-1724088600-1724103000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Royal South Street Society | Herald Sun Aria Semi-Final DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Anna Johnston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 30\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n8:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.78 \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 When lemons give you life \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anna Johnston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ‘Smart\, authentic and full of heart’ – Graeme Simsion \n \n From the author of The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Redemption is a dish best served warm… \n \n Retired Michelin-star chef Griff Barlow has lost his appetite for life. Widowed\, grieving and living in an aged care facility where beige slop passes for food\, Griff is done – with guilt\, with loneliness and with the lie that made headlines when he was diagnosed with dementia. Planning one final act\, Griff breaks into the nursing home kitchen to cook one last lemon tart. But the simple act of cooking awakens a long-forgotten joy and soon he’s restoring flavour\, dignity and delight to his fellow residents. Meanwhile\, his estranged sister\, Lisa\, is grappling with a late-in-life ADHD diagnosis\, an unexpected romance and a frightening health reality of her own. As secrets simmer and second chances collide\, both siblings are forced to confront what it really means to choose life. \n \n Drawing on Anna Johnston’s experience working in aged care\, the novel offers a rare and compassionate perspective on how people diagnosed with dementia are often dismissed\, underestimated and quietly erased. By telling the story through the eyes of a man who carries the diagnosis yet remains fully lucid\, the book invites readers to experience\, from the inside\, what it feels like to be unseen. \n \n Described as ‘Ratatouille meets A Man Called Ove’\, Anna Johnston’s second novel blends warmth\, humour and emotional depth while tackling timely conversations around ageing\, dementia\, neurodiversity\, LGBTQIA+ visibility in aged care\, and the power of everyday kindness. It is about being seen\, by others\, and by ourselves\, and about the possibility of reconciliation\, healing and second chances at any stage of life. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Anna Johnston\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anna Johnston is a former baby\, aspiring octogenarian and Australian author with a love for the heartfelt and hilarious. She grew up in country Victoria before moving to Melbourne where she lives with her husband and daughters. Anna followed her heart into her grandfather’s nursing home where she became the social support coordinator\, taking great delight in shaking up the usual program. When injury left her unable to continue working in aged care\, she began to write about it\, channelling her love for older people onto the page. Anna’s debut novel The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife became a international bestseller and has been optioned by Netflix. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Praise for When lemons give you life \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event will be supported by Collins Booksellers on Lydiard \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ‘An absolute chef’s kiss of a novel\, prepared with heart and humour\, guaranteed to please your palate.’ Troy Hunter\, author of Gus and the Missing Boy‘Smart\, authentic and full of heart.’ Graeme Simsion\, internationally bestselling author of The Rosie Project‘Written with empathy\, insight and authenticity\, When Lemons Give You Life is a delicious journey from regret to reconciliation. Heartfelt\, funny and uplifting.’ Julietta Henderson\, bestselling author of The Funny Thing About Norman Foreman ‘For the burnt-out and world-weary\, Anna Johnston’s novels offer essential therapy – wickedly funny stories about flawed heroes with the power to  restore our faith in each other.’ Kirsten Miller\, author of Lula Dean’s Little Library of Banned Books ‘A delicious treat of a novel\, rich with thecomplex flavours of love\, loss\, familial relationships and redemption. I adored it.’ Emma Grey\, internationally bestselling author of Pictures of You ‘Anna Johnston imbues her characters with a warmth\, tenderness and singularity that makes them irresistible. A charming tale of redemption\, complex sibling bonds and the joy of a meal cooked with love\, this book will leave your heart full and your tastebuds ignited.’ Mikki Brammer\,  internationally bestselling author of The Collected Regrets of Clover \n \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/herald-sun-aria-semi-final/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Important Dates,Royal South Street Society ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Herald-Sun-Aria-Dinner-and-Show-Package-Flyer-2024-Instagram-Post.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240820T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240820T200000 DTSTAMP:20260417T064715 CREATED:20240430T023540Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250325T051523Z UID:54352-1724176800-1724184000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with Anna Romer DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Anna Johnston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 30\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n8:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.78 \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 When lemons give you life \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anna Johnston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ‘Smart\, authentic and full of heart’ – Graeme Simsion \n \n From the author of The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Redemption is a dish best served warm… \n \n Retired Michelin-star chef Griff Barlow has lost his appetite for life. Widowed\, grieving and living in an aged care facility where beige slop passes for food\, Griff is done – with guilt\, with loneliness and with the lie that made headlines when he was diagnosed with dementia. Planning one final act\, Griff breaks into the nursing home kitchen to cook one last lemon tart. But the simple act of cooking awakens a long-forgotten joy and soon he’s restoring flavour\, dignity and delight to his fellow residents. Meanwhile\, his estranged sister\, Lisa\, is grappling with a late-in-life ADHD diagnosis\, an unexpected romance and a frightening health reality of her own. As secrets simmer and second chances collide\, both siblings are forced to confront what it really means to choose life. \n \n Drawing on Anna Johnston’s experience working in aged care\, the novel offers a rare and compassionate perspective on how people diagnosed with dementia are often dismissed\, underestimated and quietly erased. By telling the story through the eyes of a man who carries the diagnosis yet remains fully lucid\, the book invites readers to experience\, from the inside\, what it feels like to be unseen. \n \n Described as ‘Ratatouille meets A Man Called Ove’\, Anna Johnston’s second novel blends warmth\, humour and emotional depth while tackling timely conversations around ageing\, dementia\, neurodiversity\, LGBTQIA+ visibility in aged care\, and the power of everyday kindness. It is about being seen\, by others\, and by ourselves\, and about the possibility of reconciliation\, healing and second chances at any stage of life. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Anna Johnston\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anna Johnston is a former baby\, aspiring octogenarian and Australian author with a love for the heartfelt and hilarious. She grew up in country Victoria before moving to Melbourne where she lives with her husband and daughters. Anna followed her heart into her grandfather’s nursing home where she became the social support coordinator\, taking great delight in shaking up the usual program. When injury left her unable to continue working in aged care\, she began to write about it\, channelling her love for older people onto the page. Anna’s debut novel The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife became a international bestseller and has been optioned by Netflix. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Praise for When lemons give you life \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event will be supported by Collins Booksellers on Lydiard \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ‘An absolute chef’s kiss of a novel\, prepared with heart and humour\, guaranteed to please your palate.’ Troy Hunter\, author of Gus and the Missing Boy‘Smart\, authentic and full of heart.’ Graeme Simsion\, internationally bestselling author of The Rosie Project‘Written with empathy\, insight and authenticity\, When Lemons Give You Life is a delicious journey from regret to reconciliation. Heartfelt\, funny and uplifting.’ Julietta Henderson\, bestselling author of The Funny Thing About Norman Foreman ‘For the burnt-out and world-weary\, Anna Johnston’s novels offer essential therapy – wickedly funny stories about flawed heroes with the power to  restore our faith in each other.’ Kirsten Miller\, author of Lula Dean’s Little Library of Banned Books ‘A delicious treat of a novel\, rich with thecomplex flavours of love\, loss\, familial relationships and redemption. I adored it.’ Emma Grey\, internationally bestselling author of Pictures of You ‘Anna Johnston imbues her characters with a warmth\, tenderness and singularity that makes them irresistible. A charming tale of redemption\, complex sibling bonds and the joy of a meal cooked with love\, this book will leave your heart full and your tastebuds ignited.’ Mikki Brammer\,  internationally bestselling author of The Collected Regrets of Clover \n \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/anna-romer/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Fundraiser,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/square-promo-anna-romer-v-4.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240821T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240821T203000 DTSTAMP:20260417T064715 CREATED:20240520T011628Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250325T015106Z UID:55299-1724266800-1724272200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Kadampa Meditation Series | Happiness\, Success & the Law of Karma DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Anna Johnston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 30\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n8:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.78 \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 When lemons give you life \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anna Johnston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ‘Smart\, authentic and full of heart’ – Graeme Simsion \n \n From the author of The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Redemption is a dish best served warm… \n \n Retired Michelin-star chef Griff Barlow has lost his appetite for life. Widowed\, grieving and living in an aged care facility where beige slop passes for food\, Griff is done – with guilt\, with loneliness and with the lie that made headlines when he was diagnosed with dementia. Planning one final act\, Griff breaks into the nursing home kitchen to cook one last lemon tart. But the simple act of cooking awakens a long-forgotten joy and soon he’s restoring flavour\, dignity and delight to his fellow residents. Meanwhile\, his estranged sister\, Lisa\, is grappling with a late-in-life ADHD diagnosis\, an unexpected romance and a frightening health reality of her own. As secrets simmer and second chances collide\, both siblings are forced to confront what it really means to choose life. \n \n Drawing on Anna Johnston’s experience working in aged care\, the novel offers a rare and compassionate perspective on how people diagnosed with dementia are often dismissed\, underestimated and quietly erased. By telling the story through the eyes of a man who carries the diagnosis yet remains fully lucid\, the book invites readers to experience\, from the inside\, what it feels like to be unseen. \n \n Described as ‘Ratatouille meets A Man Called Ove’\, Anna Johnston’s second novel blends warmth\, humour and emotional depth while tackling timely conversations around ageing\, dementia\, neurodiversity\, LGBTQIA+ visibility in aged care\, and the power of everyday kindness. It is about being seen\, by others\, and by ourselves\, and about the possibility of reconciliation\, healing and second chances at any stage of life. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Anna Johnston\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anna Johnston is a former baby\, aspiring octogenarian and Australian author with a love for the heartfelt and hilarious. She grew up in country Victoria before moving to Melbourne where she lives with her husband and daughters. Anna followed her heart into her grandfather’s nursing home where she became the social support coordinator\, taking great delight in shaking up the usual program. When injury left her unable to continue working in aged care\, she began to write about it\, channelling her love for older people onto the page. Anna’s debut novel The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife became a international bestseller and has been optioned by Netflix. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Praise for When lemons give you life \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event will be supported by Collins Booksellers on Lydiard \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ‘An absolute chef’s kiss of a novel\, prepared with heart and humour\, guaranteed to please your palate.’ Troy Hunter\, author of Gus and the Missing Boy‘Smart\, authentic and full of heart.’ Graeme Simsion\, internationally bestselling author of The Rosie Project‘Written with empathy\, insight and authenticity\, When Lemons Give You Life is a delicious journey from regret to reconciliation. Heartfelt\, funny and uplifting.’ Julietta Henderson\, bestselling author of The Funny Thing About Norman Foreman ‘For the burnt-out and world-weary\, Anna Johnston’s novels offer essential therapy – wickedly funny stories about flawed heroes with the power to  restore our faith in each other.’ Kirsten Miller\, author of Lula Dean’s Little Library of Banned Books ‘A delicious treat of a novel\, rich with thecomplex flavours of love\, loss\, familial relationships and redemption. I adored it.’ Emma Grey\, internationally bestselling author of Pictures of You ‘Anna Johnston imbues her characters with a warmth\, tenderness and singularity that makes them irresistible. A charming tale of redemption\, complex sibling bonds and the joy of a meal cooked with love\, this book will leave your heart full and your tastebuds ignited.’ Mikki Brammer\,  internationally bestselling author of The Collected Regrets of Clover \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/kadampa-meditation-series-21-aug-24/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:kadampa ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/ecfp-square.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240823T200000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240823T211000 DTSTAMP:20260417T064715 CREATED:20240715T235352Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250325T071352Z UID:57285-1724443200-1724447400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:A Body at Work - FAQT DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Anna Johnston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 30\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n8:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.78 \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 When lemons give you life \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anna Johnston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ‘Smart\, authentic and full of heart’ – Graeme Simsion \n \n From the author of The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Redemption is a dish best served warm… \n \n Retired Michelin-star chef Griff Barlow has lost his appetite for life. Widowed\, grieving and living in an aged care facility where beige slop passes for food\, Griff is done – with guilt\, with loneliness and with the lie that made headlines when he was diagnosed with dementia. Planning one final act\, Griff breaks into the nursing home kitchen to cook one last lemon tart. But the simple act of cooking awakens a long-forgotten joy and soon he’s restoring flavour\, dignity and delight to his fellow residents. Meanwhile\, his estranged sister\, Lisa\, is grappling with a late-in-life ADHD diagnosis\, an unexpected romance and a frightening health reality of her own. As secrets simmer and second chances collide\, both siblings are forced to confront what it really means to choose life. \n \n Drawing on Anna Johnston’s experience working in aged care\, the novel offers a rare and compassionate perspective on how people diagnosed with dementia are often dismissed\, underestimated and quietly erased. By telling the story through the eyes of a man who carries the diagnosis yet remains fully lucid\, the book invites readers to experience\, from the inside\, what it feels like to be unseen. \n \n Described as ‘Ratatouille meets A Man Called Ove’\, Anna Johnston’s second novel blends warmth\, humour and emotional depth while tackling timely conversations around ageing\, dementia\, neurodiversity\, LGBTQIA+ visibility in aged care\, and the power of everyday kindness. It is about being seen\, by others\, and by ourselves\, and about the possibility of reconciliation\, healing and second chances at any stage of life. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Anna Johnston\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anna Johnston is a former baby\, aspiring octogenarian and Australian author with a love for the heartfelt and hilarious. She grew up in country Victoria before moving to Melbourne where she lives with her husband and daughters. Anna followed her heart into her grandfather’s nursing home where she became the social support coordinator\, taking great delight in shaking up the usual program. When injury left her unable to continue working in aged care\, she began to write about it\, channelling her love for older people onto the page. Anna’s debut novel The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife became a international bestseller and has been optioned by Netflix. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Praise for When lemons give you life \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event will be supported by Collins Booksellers on Lydiard \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ‘An absolute chef’s kiss of a novel\, prepared with heart and humour\, guaranteed to please your palate.’ Troy Hunter\, author of Gus and the Missing Boy‘Smart\, authentic and full of heart.’ Graeme Simsion\, internationally bestselling author of The Rosie Project‘Written with empathy\, insight and authenticity\, When Lemons Give You Life is a delicious journey from regret to reconciliation. Heartfelt\, funny and uplifting.’ Julietta Henderson\, bestselling author of The Funny Thing About Norman Foreman ‘For the burnt-out and world-weary\, Anna Johnston’s novels offer essential therapy – wickedly funny stories about flawed heroes with the power to  restore our faith in each other.’ Kirsten Miller\, author of Lula Dean’s Little Library of Banned Books ‘A delicious treat of a novel\, rich with thecomplex flavours of love\, loss\, familial relationships and redemption. I adored it.’ Emma Grey\, internationally bestselling author of Pictures of You ‘Anna Johnston imbues her characters with a warmth\, tenderness and singularity that makes them irresistible. A charming tale of redemption\, complex sibling bonds and the joy of a meal cooked with love\, this book will leave your heart full and your tastebuds ignited.’ Mikki Brammer\,  internationally bestselling author of The Collected Regrets of Clover \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/a-body-at-work-faqt/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:FAQT - Festival of Australian Queer Theatre,Festival ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/A-Body-at_Work_HiRes_Landscape_Darren_Gill_2.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240824T110000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240824T140000 DTSTAMP:20260417T064715 CREATED:20240708T000737Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250325T071405Z UID:57052-1724497200-1724508000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Maud Davey - Master Class - FAQT DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Anna Johnston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 30\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n8:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.78 \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 When lemons give you life \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anna Johnston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ‘Smart\, authentic and full of heart’ – Graeme Simsion \n \n From the author of The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Redemption is a dish best served warm… \n \n Retired Michelin-star chef Griff Barlow has lost his appetite for life. Widowed\, grieving and living in an aged care facility where beige slop passes for food\, Griff is done – with guilt\, with loneliness and with the lie that made headlines when he was diagnosed with dementia. Planning one final act\, Griff breaks into the nursing home kitchen to cook one last lemon tart. But the simple act of cooking awakens a long-forgotten joy and soon he’s restoring flavour\, dignity and delight to his fellow residents. Meanwhile\, his estranged sister\, Lisa\, is grappling with a late-in-life ADHD diagnosis\, an unexpected romance and a frightening health reality of her own. As secrets simmer and second chances collide\, both siblings are forced to confront what it really means to choose life. \n \n Drawing on Anna Johnston’s experience working in aged care\, the novel offers a rare and compassionate perspective on how people diagnosed with dementia are often dismissed\, underestimated and quietly erased. By telling the story through the eyes of a man who carries the diagnosis yet remains fully lucid\, the book invites readers to experience\, from the inside\, what it feels like to be unseen. \n \n Described as ‘Ratatouille meets A Man Called Ove’\, Anna Johnston’s second novel blends warmth\, humour and emotional depth while tackling timely conversations around ageing\, dementia\, neurodiversity\, LGBTQIA+ visibility in aged care\, and the power of everyday kindness. It is about being seen\, by others\, and by ourselves\, and about the possibility of reconciliation\, healing and second chances at any stage of life. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Anna Johnston\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anna Johnston is a former baby\, aspiring octogenarian and Australian author with a love for the heartfelt and hilarious. She grew up in country Victoria before moving to Melbourne where she lives with her husband and daughters. Anna followed her heart into her grandfather’s nursing home where she became the social support coordinator\, taking great delight in shaking up the usual program. When injury left her unable to continue working in aged care\, she began to write about it\, channelling her love for older people onto the page. Anna’s debut novel The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife became a international bestseller and has been optioned by Netflix. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Praise for When lemons give you life \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event will be supported by Collins Booksellers on Lydiard \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ‘An absolute chef’s kiss of a novel\, prepared with heart and humour\, guaranteed to please your palate.’ Troy Hunter\, author of Gus and the Missing Boy‘Smart\, authentic and full of heart.’ Graeme Simsion\, internationally bestselling author of The Rosie Project‘Written with empathy\, insight and authenticity\, When Lemons Give You Life is a delicious journey from regret to reconciliation. Heartfelt\, funny and uplifting.’ Julietta Henderson\, bestselling author of The Funny Thing About Norman Foreman ‘For the burnt-out and world-weary\, Anna Johnston’s novels offer essential therapy – wickedly funny stories about flawed heroes with the power to  restore our faith in each other.’ Kirsten Miller\, author of Lula Dean’s Little Library of Banned Books ‘A delicious treat of a novel\, rich with thecomplex flavours of love\, loss\, familial relationships and redemption. I adored it.’ Emma Grey\, internationally bestselling author of Pictures of You ‘Anna Johnston imbues her characters with a warmth\, tenderness and singularity that makes them irresistible. A charming tale of redemption\, complex sibling bonds and the joy of a meal cooked with love\, this book will leave your heart full and your tastebuds ignited.’ Mikki Brammer\,  internationally bestselling author of The Collected Regrets of Clover \n \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/maud-davey-master-class-faqt/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:FAQT - Festival of Australian Queer Theatre,Festival ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/MAUD-DAVEY.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240824T143000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240824T173000 DTSTAMP:20260417T064715 CREATED:20240708T001221Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250325T071402Z UID:57059-1724509800-1724520600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Moira Finucaine - Master Class - FAQT DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Anna Johnston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 30\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n8:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.78 \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 When lemons give you life \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anna Johnston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ‘Smart\, authentic and full of heart’ – Graeme Simsion \n \n From the author of The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Redemption is a dish best served warm… \n \n Retired Michelin-star chef Griff Barlow has lost his appetite for life. Widowed\, grieving and living in an aged care facility where beige slop passes for food\, Griff is done – with guilt\, with loneliness and with the lie that made headlines when he was diagnosed with dementia. Planning one final act\, Griff breaks into the nursing home kitchen to cook one last lemon tart. But the simple act of cooking awakens a long-forgotten joy and soon he’s restoring flavour\, dignity and delight to his fellow residents. Meanwhile\, his estranged sister\, Lisa\, is grappling with a late-in-life ADHD diagnosis\, an unexpected romance and a frightening health reality of her own. As secrets simmer and second chances collide\, both siblings are forced to confront what it really means to choose life. \n \n Drawing on Anna Johnston’s experience working in aged care\, the novel offers a rare and compassionate perspective on how people diagnosed with dementia are often dismissed\, underestimated and quietly erased. By telling the story through the eyes of a man who carries the diagnosis yet remains fully lucid\, the book invites readers to experience\, from the inside\, what it feels like to be unseen. \n \n Described as ‘Ratatouille meets A Man Called Ove’\, Anna Johnston’s second novel blends warmth\, humour and emotional depth while tackling timely conversations around ageing\, dementia\, neurodiversity\, LGBTQIA+ visibility in aged care\, and the power of everyday kindness. It is about being seen\, by others\, and by ourselves\, and about the possibility of reconciliation\, healing and second chances at any stage of life. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Anna Johnston\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anna Johnston is a former baby\, aspiring octogenarian and Australian author with a love for the heartfelt and hilarious. She grew up in country Victoria before moving to Melbourne where she lives with her husband and daughters. Anna followed her heart into her grandfather’s nursing home where she became the social support coordinator\, taking great delight in shaking up the usual program. When injury left her unable to continue working in aged care\, she began to write about it\, channelling her love for older people onto the page. Anna’s debut novel The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife became a international bestseller and has been optioned by Netflix. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Praise for When lemons give you life \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event will be supported by Collins Booksellers on Lydiard \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ‘An absolute chef’s kiss of a novel\, prepared with heart and humour\, guaranteed to please your palate.’ Troy Hunter\, author of Gus and the Missing Boy‘Smart\, authentic and full of heart.’ Graeme Simsion\, internationally bestselling author of The Rosie Project‘Written with empathy\, insight and authenticity\, When Lemons Give You Life is a delicious journey from regret to reconciliation. Heartfelt\, funny and uplifting.’ Julietta Henderson\, bestselling author of The Funny Thing About Norman Foreman ‘For the burnt-out and world-weary\, Anna Johnston’s novels offer essential therapy – wickedly funny stories about flawed heroes with the power to  restore our faith in each other.’ Kirsten Miller\, author of Lula Dean’s Little Library of Banned Books ‘A delicious treat of a novel\, rich with thecomplex flavours of love\, loss\, familial relationships and redemption. I adored it.’ Emma Grey\, internationally bestselling author of Pictures of You ‘Anna Johnston imbues her characters with a warmth\, tenderness and singularity that makes them irresistible. A charming tale of redemption\, complex sibling bonds and the joy of a meal cooked with love\, this book will leave your heart full and your tastebuds ignited.’ Mikki Brammer\,  internationally bestselling author of The Collected Regrets of Clover \n \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/moira-finucaine-faqt/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:FAQT - Festival of Australian Queer Theatre,Festival ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/MOIRA-FINUCANE-1.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240824T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240824T204000 DTSTAMP:20260417T064715 CREATED:20240708T001243Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250325T071359Z UID:57060-1724527800-1724532000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Numa & Karl: Extraordinary Man That He Was - FAQT DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Anna Johnston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 30\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n8:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.78 \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 When lemons give you life \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anna Johnston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ‘Smart\, authentic and full of heart’ – Graeme Simsion \n \n From the author of The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Redemption is a dish best served warm… \n \n Retired Michelin-star chef Griff Barlow has lost his appetite for life. Widowed\, grieving and living in an aged care facility where beige slop passes for food\, Griff is done – with guilt\, with loneliness and with the lie that made headlines when he was diagnosed with dementia. Planning one final act\, Griff breaks into the nursing home kitchen to cook one last lemon tart. But the simple act of cooking awakens a long-forgotten joy and soon he’s restoring flavour\, dignity and delight to his fellow residents. Meanwhile\, his estranged sister\, Lisa\, is grappling with a late-in-life ADHD diagnosis\, an unexpected romance and a frightening health reality of her own. As secrets simmer and second chances collide\, both siblings are forced to confront what it really means to choose life. \n \n Drawing on Anna Johnston’s experience working in aged care\, the novel offers a rare and compassionate perspective on how people diagnosed with dementia are often dismissed\, underestimated and quietly erased. By telling the story through the eyes of a man who carries the diagnosis yet remains fully lucid\, the book invites readers to experience\, from the inside\, what it feels like to be unseen. \n \n Described as ‘Ratatouille meets A Man Called Ove’\, Anna Johnston’s second novel blends warmth\, humour and emotional depth while tackling timely conversations around ageing\, dementia\, neurodiversity\, LGBTQIA+ visibility in aged care\, and the power of everyday kindness. It is about being seen\, by others\, and by ourselves\, and about the possibility of reconciliation\, healing and second chances at any stage of life. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Anna Johnston\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anna Johnston is a former baby\, aspiring octogenarian and Australian author with a love for the heartfelt and hilarious. She grew up in country Victoria before moving to Melbourne where she lives with her husband and daughters. Anna followed her heart into her grandfather’s nursing home where she became the social support coordinator\, taking great delight in shaking up the usual program. When injury left her unable to continue working in aged care\, she began to write about it\, channelling her love for older people onto the page. Anna’s debut novel The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife became a international bestseller and has been optioned by Netflix. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Praise for When lemons give you life \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event will be supported by Collins Booksellers on Lydiard \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ‘An absolute chef’s kiss of a novel\, prepared with heart and humour\, guaranteed to please your palate.’ Troy Hunter\, author of Gus and the Missing Boy‘Smart\, authentic and full of heart.’ Graeme Simsion\, internationally bestselling author of The Rosie Project‘Written with empathy\, insight and authenticity\, When Lemons Give You Life is a delicious journey from regret to reconciliation. Heartfelt\, funny and uplifting.’ Julietta Henderson\, bestselling author of The Funny Thing About Norman Foreman ‘For the burnt-out and world-weary\, Anna Johnston’s novels offer essential therapy – wickedly funny stories about flawed heroes with the power to  restore our faith in each other.’ Kirsten Miller\, author of Lula Dean’s Little Library of Banned Books ‘A delicious treat of a novel\, rich with thecomplex flavours of love\, loss\, familial relationships and redemption. I adored it.’ Emma Grey\, internationally bestselling author of Pictures of You ‘Anna Johnston imbues her characters with a warmth\, tenderness and singularity that makes them irresistible. A charming tale of redemption\, complex sibling bonds and the joy of a meal cooked with love\, this book will leave your heart full and your tastebuds ignited.’ Mikki Brammer\,  internationally bestselling author of The Collected Regrets of Clover \n \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/numa-karl-faqt/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:FAQT - Festival of Australian Queer Theatre,Festival ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Add-a-heading-6.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240825T120000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240825T132000 DTSTAMP:20260417T064715 CREATED:20240708T003208Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250325T071357Z UID:57081-1724587200-1724592000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Chasing Dick: A Love Story - FAQT DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Anna Johnston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 30\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n8:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.78 \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 When lemons give you life \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anna Johnston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ‘Smart\, authentic and full of heart’ – Graeme Simsion \n \n From the author of The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Redemption is a dish best served warm… \n \n Retired Michelin-star chef Griff Barlow has lost his appetite for life. Widowed\, grieving and living in an aged care facility where beige slop passes for food\, Griff is done – with guilt\, with loneliness and with the lie that made headlines when he was diagnosed with dementia. Planning one final act\, Griff breaks into the nursing home kitchen to cook one last lemon tart. But the simple act of cooking awakens a long-forgotten joy and soon he’s restoring flavour\, dignity and delight to his fellow residents. Meanwhile\, his estranged sister\, Lisa\, is grappling with a late-in-life ADHD diagnosis\, an unexpected romance and a frightening health reality of her own. As secrets simmer and second chances collide\, both siblings are forced to confront what it really means to choose life. \n \n Drawing on Anna Johnston’s experience working in aged care\, the novel offers a rare and compassionate perspective on how people diagnosed with dementia are often dismissed\, underestimated and quietly erased. By telling the story through the eyes of a man who carries the diagnosis yet remains fully lucid\, the book invites readers to experience\, from the inside\, what it feels like to be unseen. \n \n Described as ‘Ratatouille meets A Man Called Ove’\, Anna Johnston’s second novel blends warmth\, humour and emotional depth while tackling timely conversations around ageing\, dementia\, neurodiversity\, LGBTQIA+ visibility in aged care\, and the power of everyday kindness. It is about being seen\, by others\, and by ourselves\, and about the possibility of reconciliation\, healing and second chances at any stage of life. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Anna Johnston\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anna Johnston is a former baby\, aspiring octogenarian and Australian author with a love for the heartfelt and hilarious. She grew up in country Victoria before moving to Melbourne where she lives with her husband and daughters. Anna followed her heart into her grandfather’s nursing home where she became the social support coordinator\, taking great delight in shaking up the usual program. When injury left her unable to continue working in aged care\, she began to write about it\, channelling her love for older people onto the page. Anna’s debut novel The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife became a international bestseller and has been optioned by Netflix. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Praise for When lemons give you life \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event will be supported by Collins Booksellers on Lydiard \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ‘An absolute chef’s kiss of a novel\, prepared with heart and humour\, guaranteed to please your palate.’ Troy Hunter\, author of Gus and the Missing Boy‘Smart\, authentic and full of heart.’ Graeme Simsion\, internationally bestselling author of The Rosie Project‘Written with empathy\, insight and authenticity\, When Lemons Give You Life is a delicious journey from regret to reconciliation. Heartfelt\, funny and uplifting.’ Julietta Henderson\, bestselling author of The Funny Thing About Norman Foreman ‘For the burnt-out and world-weary\, Anna Johnston’s novels offer essential therapy – wickedly funny stories about flawed heroes with the power to  restore our faith in each other.’ Kirsten Miller\, author of Lula Dean’s Little Library of Banned Books ‘A delicious treat of a novel\, rich with thecomplex flavours of love\, loss\, familial relationships and redemption. I adored it.’ Emma Grey\, internationally bestselling author of Pictures of You ‘Anna Johnston imbues her characters with a warmth\, tenderness and singularity that makes them irresistible. A charming tale of redemption\, complex sibling bonds and the joy of a meal cooked with love\, this book will leave your heart full and your tastebuds ignited.’ Mikki Brammer\,  internationally bestselling author of The Collected Regrets of Clover \n \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/chasing-dick-faqt/ LOCATION:Heritage Reading Room\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:FAQT - Festival of Australian Queer Theatre,Festival ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Add-a-heading-11.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240825T143000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240825T160000 DTSTAMP:20260417T064715 CREATED:20240708T004759Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250325T071355Z UID:57089-1724596200-1724601600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Play Reading | Queer Canon - FAQT DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Anna Johnston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 30\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n8:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.78 \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 When lemons give you life \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anna Johnston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ‘Smart\, authentic and full of heart’ – Graeme Simsion \n \n From the author of The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Redemption is a dish best served warm… \n \n Retired Michelin-star chef Griff Barlow has lost his appetite for life. Widowed\, grieving and living in an aged care facility where beige slop passes for food\, Griff is done – with guilt\, with loneliness and with the lie that made headlines when he was diagnosed with dementia. Planning one final act\, Griff breaks into the nursing home kitchen to cook one last lemon tart. But the simple act of cooking awakens a long-forgotten joy and soon he’s restoring flavour\, dignity and delight to his fellow residents. Meanwhile\, his estranged sister\, Lisa\, is grappling with a late-in-life ADHD diagnosis\, an unexpected romance and a frightening health reality of her own. As secrets simmer and second chances collide\, both siblings are forced to confront what it really means to choose life. \n \n Drawing on Anna Johnston’s experience working in aged care\, the novel offers a rare and compassionate perspective on how people diagnosed with dementia are often dismissed\, underestimated and quietly erased. By telling the story through the eyes of a man who carries the diagnosis yet remains fully lucid\, the book invites readers to experience\, from the inside\, what it feels like to be unseen. \n \n Described as ‘Ratatouille meets A Man Called Ove’\, Anna Johnston’s second novel blends warmth\, humour and emotional depth while tackling timely conversations around ageing\, dementia\, neurodiversity\, LGBTQIA+ visibility in aged care\, and the power of everyday kindness. It is about being seen\, by others\, and by ourselves\, and about the possibility of reconciliation\, healing and second chances at any stage of life. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Anna Johnston\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anna Johnston is a former baby\, aspiring octogenarian and Australian author with a love for the heartfelt and hilarious. She grew up in country Victoria before moving to Melbourne where she lives with her husband and daughters. Anna followed her heart into her grandfather’s nursing home where she became the social support coordinator\, taking great delight in shaking up the usual program. When injury left her unable to continue working in aged care\, she began to write about it\, channelling her love for older people onto the page. Anna’s debut novel The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife became a international bestseller and has been optioned by Netflix. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Praise for When lemons give you life \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event will be supported by Collins Booksellers on Lydiard \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ‘An absolute chef’s kiss of a novel\, prepared with heart and humour\, guaranteed to please your palate.’ Troy Hunter\, author of Gus and the Missing Boy‘Smart\, authentic and full of heart.’ Graeme Simsion\, internationally bestselling author of The Rosie Project‘Written with empathy\, insight and authenticity\, When Lemons Give You Life is a delicious journey from regret to reconciliation. Heartfelt\, funny and uplifting.’ Julietta Henderson\, bestselling author of The Funny Thing About Norman Foreman ‘For the burnt-out and world-weary\, Anna Johnston’s novels offer essential therapy – wickedly funny stories about flawed heroes with the power to  restore our faith in each other.’ Kirsten Miller\, author of Lula Dean’s Little Library of Banned Books ‘A delicious treat of a novel\, rich with thecomplex flavours of love\, loss\, familial relationships and redemption. I adored it.’ Emma Grey\, internationally bestselling author of Pictures of You ‘Anna Johnston imbues her characters with a warmth\, tenderness and singularity that makes them irresistible. A charming tale of redemption\, complex sibling bonds and the joy of a meal cooked with love\, this book will leave your heart full and your tastebuds ignited.’ Mikki Brammer\,  internationally bestselling author of The Collected Regrets of Clover \n \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/queer-canon-faqt/ LOCATION:Heritage Reading Room\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:FAQT - Festival of Australian Queer Theatre,Festival ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/john.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240828T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240828T203000 DTSTAMP:20260417T064715 CREATED:20240520T011854Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250325T015103Z UID:55301-1724871600-1724877000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Kadampa Meditation Series | Embracing Change & Finding Purpose DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Anna Johnston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 30\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n8:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.78 \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 When lemons give you life \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anna Johnston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ‘Smart\, authentic and full of heart’ – Graeme Simsion \n \n From the author of The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Redemption is a dish best served warm… \n \n Retired Michelin-star chef Griff Barlow has lost his appetite for life. Widowed\, grieving and living in an aged care facility where beige slop passes for food\, Griff is done – with guilt\, with loneliness and with the lie that made headlines when he was diagnosed with dementia. Planning one final act\, Griff breaks into the nursing home kitchen to cook one last lemon tart. But the simple act of cooking awakens a long-forgotten joy and soon he’s restoring flavour\, dignity and delight to his fellow residents. Meanwhile\, his estranged sister\, Lisa\, is grappling with a late-in-life ADHD diagnosis\, an unexpected romance and a frightening health reality of her own. As secrets simmer and second chances collide\, both siblings are forced to confront what it really means to choose life. \n \n Drawing on Anna Johnston’s experience working in aged care\, the novel offers a rare and compassionate perspective on how people diagnosed with dementia are often dismissed\, underestimated and quietly erased. By telling the story through the eyes of a man who carries the diagnosis yet remains fully lucid\, the book invites readers to experience\, from the inside\, what it feels like to be unseen. \n \n Described as ‘Ratatouille meets A Man Called Ove’\, Anna Johnston’s second novel blends warmth\, humour and emotional depth while tackling timely conversations around ageing\, dementia\, neurodiversity\, LGBTQIA+ visibility in aged care\, and the power of everyday kindness. It is about being seen\, by others\, and by ourselves\, and about the possibility of reconciliation\, healing and second chances at any stage of life. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Anna Johnston\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anna Johnston is a former baby\, aspiring octogenarian and Australian author with a love for the heartfelt and hilarious. She grew up in country Victoria before moving to Melbourne where she lives with her husband and daughters. Anna followed her heart into her grandfather’s nursing home where she became the social support coordinator\, taking great delight in shaking up the usual program. When injury left her unable to continue working in aged care\, she began to write about it\, channelling her love for older people onto the page. Anna’s debut novel The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife became a international bestseller and has been optioned by Netflix. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Praise for When lemons give you life \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event will be supported by Collins Booksellers on Lydiard \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ‘An absolute chef’s kiss of a novel\, prepared with heart and humour\, guaranteed to please your palate.’ Troy Hunter\, author of Gus and the Missing Boy‘Smart\, authentic and full of heart.’ Graeme Simsion\, internationally bestselling author of The Rosie Project‘Written with empathy\, insight and authenticity\, When Lemons Give You Life is a delicious journey from regret to reconciliation. Heartfelt\, funny and uplifting.’ Julietta Henderson\, bestselling author of The Funny Thing About Norman Foreman ‘For the burnt-out and world-weary\, Anna Johnston’s novels offer essential therapy – wickedly funny stories about flawed heroes with the power to  restore our faith in each other.’ Kirsten Miller\, author of Lula Dean’s Little Library of Banned Books ‘A delicious treat of a novel\, rich with thecomplex flavours of love\, loss\, familial relationships and redemption. I adored it.’ Emma Grey\, internationally bestselling author of Pictures of You ‘Anna Johnston imbues her characters with a warmth\, tenderness and singularity that makes them irresistible. A charming tale of redemption\, complex sibling bonds and the joy of a meal cooked with love\, this book will leave your heart full and your tastebuds ignited.’ Mikki Brammer\,  internationally bestselling author of The Collected Regrets of Clover \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/kadampa-meditation-series-28-aug-24/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:kadampa ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/ecfp-square.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240904T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240904T200000 DTSTAMP:20260417T064715 CREATED:20240429T042735Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250325T023004Z UID:54292-1725472800-1725480000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with J.P. Pomare DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Anna Johnston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 30\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n8:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.78 \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 When lemons give you life \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anna Johnston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ‘Smart\, authentic and full of heart’ – Graeme Simsion \n \n From the author of The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Redemption is a dish best served warm… \n \n Retired Michelin-star chef Griff Barlow has lost his appetite for life. Widowed\, grieving and living in an aged care facility where beige slop passes for food\, Griff is done – with guilt\, with loneliness and with the lie that made headlines when he was diagnosed with dementia. Planning one final act\, Griff breaks into the nursing home kitchen to cook one last lemon tart. But the simple act of cooking awakens a long-forgotten joy and soon he’s restoring flavour\, dignity and delight to his fellow residents. Meanwhile\, his estranged sister\, Lisa\, is grappling with a late-in-life ADHD diagnosis\, an unexpected romance and a frightening health reality of her own. As secrets simmer and second chances collide\, both siblings are forced to confront what it really means to choose life. \n \n Drawing on Anna Johnston’s experience working in aged care\, the novel offers a rare and compassionate perspective on how people diagnosed with dementia are often dismissed\, underestimated and quietly erased. By telling the story through the eyes of a man who carries the diagnosis yet remains fully lucid\, the book invites readers to experience\, from the inside\, what it feels like to be unseen. \n \n Described as ‘Ratatouille meets A Man Called Ove’\, Anna Johnston’s second novel blends warmth\, humour and emotional depth while tackling timely conversations around ageing\, dementia\, neurodiversity\, LGBTQIA+ visibility in aged care\, and the power of everyday kindness. It is about being seen\, by others\, and by ourselves\, and about the possibility of reconciliation\, healing and second chances at any stage of life. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Anna Johnston\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anna Johnston is a former baby\, aspiring octogenarian and Australian author with a love for the heartfelt and hilarious. She grew up in country Victoria before moving to Melbourne where she lives with her husband and daughters. Anna followed her heart into her grandfather’s nursing home where she became the social support coordinator\, taking great delight in shaking up the usual program. When injury left her unable to continue working in aged care\, she began to write about it\, channelling her love for older people onto the page. Anna’s debut novel The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife became a international bestseller and has been optioned by Netflix. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Praise for When lemons give you life \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event will be supported by Collins Booksellers on Lydiard \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ‘An absolute chef’s kiss of a novel\, prepared with heart and humour\, guaranteed to please your palate.’ Troy Hunter\, author of Gus and the Missing Boy‘Smart\, authentic and full of heart.’ Graeme Simsion\, internationally bestselling author of The Rosie Project‘Written with empathy\, insight and authenticity\, When Lemons Give You Life is a delicious journey from regret to reconciliation. Heartfelt\, funny and uplifting.’ Julietta Henderson\, bestselling author of The Funny Thing About Norman Foreman ‘For the burnt-out and world-weary\, Anna Johnston’s novels offer essential therapy – wickedly funny stories about flawed heroes with the power to  restore our faith in each other.’ Kirsten Miller\, author of Lula Dean’s Little Library of Banned Books ‘A delicious treat of a novel\, rich with thecomplex flavours of love\, loss\, familial relationships and redemption. I adored it.’ Emma Grey\, internationally bestselling author of Pictures of You ‘Anna Johnston imbues her characters with a warmth\, tenderness and singularity that makes them irresistible. A charming tale of redemption\, complex sibling bonds and the joy of a meal cooked with love\, this book will leave your heart full and your tastebuds ignited.’ Mikki Brammer\,  internationally bestselling author of The Collected Regrets of Clover \n \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/j-p-pomare/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Fundraiser,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/josh-pomare-square-promo-v2-final.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240904T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240904T203000 DTSTAMP:20260417T064715 CREATED:20240520T012206Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250325T015100Z UID:55303-1725476400-1725481800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Kadampa Meditation Series | Embracing Change & Finding Purpose DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Anna Johnston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 30\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n8:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.78 \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 When lemons give you life \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anna Johnston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ‘Smart\, authentic and full of heart’ – Graeme Simsion \n \n From the author of The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Redemption is a dish best served warm… \n \n Retired Michelin-star chef Griff Barlow has lost his appetite for life. Widowed\, grieving and living in an aged care facility where beige slop passes for food\, Griff is done – with guilt\, with loneliness and with the lie that made headlines when he was diagnosed with dementia. Planning one final act\, Griff breaks into the nursing home kitchen to cook one last lemon tart. But the simple act of cooking awakens a long-forgotten joy and soon he’s restoring flavour\, dignity and delight to his fellow residents. Meanwhile\, his estranged sister\, Lisa\, is grappling with a late-in-life ADHD diagnosis\, an unexpected romance and a frightening health reality of her own. As secrets simmer and second chances collide\, both siblings are forced to confront what it really means to choose life. \n \n Drawing on Anna Johnston’s experience working in aged care\, the novel offers a rare and compassionate perspective on how people diagnosed with dementia are often dismissed\, underestimated and quietly erased. By telling the story through the eyes of a man who carries the diagnosis yet remains fully lucid\, the book invites readers to experience\, from the inside\, what it feels like to be unseen. \n \n Described as ‘Ratatouille meets A Man Called Ove’\, Anna Johnston’s second novel blends warmth\, humour and emotional depth while tackling timely conversations around ageing\, dementia\, neurodiversity\, LGBTQIA+ visibility in aged care\, and the power of everyday kindness. It is about being seen\, by others\, and by ourselves\, and about the possibility of reconciliation\, healing and second chances at any stage of life. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Anna Johnston\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anna Johnston is a former baby\, aspiring octogenarian and Australian author with a love for the heartfelt and hilarious. She grew up in country Victoria before moving to Melbourne where she lives with her husband and daughters. Anna followed her heart into her grandfather’s nursing home where she became the social support coordinator\, taking great delight in shaking up the usual program. When injury left her unable to continue working in aged care\, she began to write about it\, channelling her love for older people onto the page. Anna’s debut novel The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife became a international bestseller and has been optioned by Netflix. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Praise for When lemons give you life \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event will be supported by Collins Booksellers on Lydiard \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ‘An absolute chef’s kiss of a novel\, prepared with heart and humour\, guaranteed to please your palate.’ Troy Hunter\, author of Gus and the Missing Boy‘Smart\, authentic and full of heart.’ Graeme Simsion\, internationally bestselling author of The Rosie Project‘Written with empathy\, insight and authenticity\, When Lemons Give You Life is a delicious journey from regret to reconciliation. Heartfelt\, funny and uplifting.’ Julietta Henderson\, bestselling author of The Funny Thing About Norman Foreman ‘For the burnt-out and world-weary\, Anna Johnston’s novels offer essential therapy – wickedly funny stories about flawed heroes with the power to  restore our faith in each other.’ Kirsten Miller\, author of Lula Dean’s Little Library of Banned Books ‘A delicious treat of a novel\, rich with thecomplex flavours of love\, loss\, familial relationships and redemption. I adored it.’ Emma Grey\, internationally bestselling author of Pictures of You ‘Anna Johnston imbues her characters with a warmth\, tenderness and singularity that makes them irresistible. A charming tale of redemption\, complex sibling bonds and the joy of a meal cooked with love\, this book will leave your heart full and your tastebuds ignited.’ Mikki Brammer\,  internationally bestselling author of The Collected Regrets of Clover \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/kadampa-meditation-series-4-sep-24/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:kadampa ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/ecfp-square.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240905T173000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240926T223000 DTSTAMP:20260417T064715 CREATED:20240520T015730Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240520T015919Z UID:55311-1725557400-1727389800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Ballarat Chess Club DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Anna Johnston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 30\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n8:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.78 \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 When lemons give you life \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anna Johnston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ‘Smart\, authentic and full of heart’ – Graeme Simsion \n \n From the author of The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Redemption is a dish best served warm… \n \n Retired Michelin-star chef Griff Barlow has lost his appetite for life. Widowed\, grieving and living in an aged care facility where beige slop passes for food\, Griff is done – with guilt\, with loneliness and with the lie that made headlines when he was diagnosed with dementia. Planning one final act\, Griff breaks into the nursing home kitchen to cook one last lemon tart. But the simple act of cooking awakens a long-forgotten joy and soon he’s restoring flavour\, dignity and delight to his fellow residents. Meanwhile\, his estranged sister\, Lisa\, is grappling with a late-in-life ADHD diagnosis\, an unexpected romance and a frightening health reality of her own. As secrets simmer and second chances collide\, both siblings are forced to confront what it really means to choose life. \n \n Drawing on Anna Johnston’s experience working in aged care\, the novel offers a rare and compassionate perspective on how people diagnosed with dementia are often dismissed\, underestimated and quietly erased. By telling the story through the eyes of a man who carries the diagnosis yet remains fully lucid\, the book invites readers to experience\, from the inside\, what it feels like to be unseen. \n \n Described as ‘Ratatouille meets A Man Called Ove’\, Anna Johnston’s second novel blends warmth\, humour and emotional depth while tackling timely conversations around ageing\, dementia\, neurodiversity\, LGBTQIA+ visibility in aged care\, and the power of everyday kindness. It is about being seen\, by others\, and by ourselves\, and about the possibility of reconciliation\, healing and second chances at any stage of life. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Anna Johnston\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anna Johnston is a former baby\, aspiring octogenarian and Australian author with a love for the heartfelt and hilarious. She grew up in country Victoria before moving to Melbourne where she lives with her husband and daughters. Anna followed her heart into her grandfather’s nursing home where she became the social support coordinator\, taking great delight in shaking up the usual program. When injury left her unable to continue working in aged care\, she began to write about it\, channelling her love for older people onto the page. Anna’s debut novel The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife became a international bestseller and has been optioned by Netflix. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Praise for When lemons give you life \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event will be supported by Collins Booksellers on Lydiard \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ‘An absolute chef’s kiss of a novel\, prepared with heart and humour\, guaranteed to please your palate.’ Troy Hunter\, author of Gus and the Missing Boy‘Smart\, authentic and full of heart.’ Graeme Simsion\, internationally bestselling author of The Rosie Project‘Written with empathy\, insight and authenticity\, When Lemons Give You Life is a delicious journey from regret to reconciliation. Heartfelt\, funny and uplifting.’ Julietta Henderson\, bestselling author of The Funny Thing About Norman Foreman ‘For the burnt-out and world-weary\, Anna Johnston’s novels offer essential therapy – wickedly funny stories about flawed heroes with the power to  restore our faith in each other.’ Kirsten Miller\, author of Lula Dean’s Little Library of Banned Books ‘A delicious treat of a novel\, rich with thecomplex flavours of love\, loss\, familial relationships and redemption. I adored it.’ Emma Grey\, internationally bestselling author of Pictures of You ‘Anna Johnston imbues her characters with a warmth\, tenderness and singularity that makes them irresistible. A charming tale of redemption\, complex sibling bonds and the joy of a meal cooked with love\, this book will leave your heart full and your tastebuds ignited.’ Mikki Brammer\,  internationally bestselling author of The Collected Regrets of Clover \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/ballarat-chess-club-sep-24/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Ballarat Chess Club ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/ballarat-chess-club-square-with-boarder.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240908T143000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240908T160000 DTSTAMP:20260417T064715 CREATED:20240325T021720Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250325T142905Z UID:52724-1725805800-1725811200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Teeny Tiny Stevies - Twice the Love Tour\, Ballarat DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Anna Johnston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 30\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n8:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.78 \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 When lemons give you life \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anna Johnston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ‘Smart\, authentic and full of heart’ – Graeme Simsion \n \n From the author of The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Redemption is a dish best served warm… \n \n Retired Michelin-star chef Griff Barlow has lost his appetite for life. Widowed\, grieving and living in an aged care facility where beige slop passes for food\, Griff is done – with guilt\, with loneliness and with the lie that made headlines when he was diagnosed with dementia. Planning one final act\, Griff breaks into the nursing home kitchen to cook one last lemon tart. But the simple act of cooking awakens a long-forgotten joy and soon he’s restoring flavour\, dignity and delight to his fellow residents. Meanwhile\, his estranged sister\, Lisa\, is grappling with a late-in-life ADHD diagnosis\, an unexpected romance and a frightening health reality of her own. As secrets simmer and second chances collide\, both siblings are forced to confront what it really means to choose life. \n \n Drawing on Anna Johnston’s experience working in aged care\, the novel offers a rare and compassionate perspective on how people diagnosed with dementia are often dismissed\, underestimated and quietly erased. By telling the story through the eyes of a man who carries the diagnosis yet remains fully lucid\, the book invites readers to experience\, from the inside\, what it feels like to be unseen. \n \n Described as ‘Ratatouille meets A Man Called Ove’\, Anna Johnston’s second novel blends warmth\, humour and emotional depth while tackling timely conversations around ageing\, dementia\, neurodiversity\, LGBTQIA+ visibility in aged care\, and the power of everyday kindness. It is about being seen\, by others\, and by ourselves\, and about the possibility of reconciliation\, healing and second chances at any stage of life. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Anna Johnston\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anna Johnston is a former baby\, aspiring octogenarian and Australian author with a love for the heartfelt and hilarious. She grew up in country Victoria before moving to Melbourne where she lives with her husband and daughters. Anna followed her heart into her grandfather’s nursing home where she became the social support coordinator\, taking great delight in shaking up the usual program. When injury left her unable to continue working in aged care\, she began to write about it\, channelling her love for older people onto the page. Anna’s debut novel The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife became a international bestseller and has been optioned by Netflix. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Praise for When lemons give you life \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event will be supported by Collins Booksellers on Lydiard \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ‘An absolute chef’s kiss of a novel\, prepared with heart and humour\, guaranteed to please your palate.’ Troy Hunter\, author of Gus and the Missing Boy‘Smart\, authentic and full of heart.’ Graeme Simsion\, internationally bestselling author of The Rosie Project‘Written with empathy\, insight and authenticity\, When Lemons Give You Life is a delicious journey from regret to reconciliation. Heartfelt\, funny and uplifting.’ Julietta Henderson\, bestselling author of The Funny Thing About Norman Foreman ‘For the burnt-out and world-weary\, Anna Johnston’s novels offer essential therapy – wickedly funny stories about flawed heroes with the power to  restore our faith in each other.’ Kirsten Miller\, author of Lula Dean’s Little Library of Banned Books ‘A delicious treat of a novel\, rich with thecomplex flavours of love\, loss\, familial relationships and redemption. I adored it.’ Emma Grey\, internationally bestselling author of Pictures of You ‘Anna Johnston imbues her characters with a warmth\, tenderness and singularity that makes them irresistible. A charming tale of redemption\, complex sibling bonds and the joy of a meal cooked with love\, this book will leave your heart full and your tastebuds ignited.’ Mikki Brammer\,  internationally bestselling author of The Collected Regrets of Clover \n \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/teeny-tiny-stevies/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:BMI Produced Event,Comedy,Live Music ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/teeny-tiny-stevies-e1711333465682.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240910T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240910T190000 DTSTAMP:20260417T064715 CREATED:20240709T063001Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250325T022557Z UID:57127-1725991200-1725994800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:The Great Aussie Road Trip: Heather Ewart in Conversation | NOW SOLD OUT. DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Anna Johnston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 30\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n8:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.78 \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 When lemons give you life \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anna Johnston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ‘Smart\, authentic and full of heart’ – Graeme Simsion \n \n From the author of The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Redemption is a dish best served warm… \n \n Retired Michelin-star chef Griff Barlow has lost his appetite for life. Widowed\, grieving and living in an aged care facility where beige slop passes for food\, Griff is done – with guilt\, with loneliness and with the lie that made headlines when he was diagnosed with dementia. Planning one final act\, Griff breaks into the nursing home kitchen to cook one last lemon tart. But the simple act of cooking awakens a long-forgotten joy and soon he’s restoring flavour\, dignity and delight to his fellow residents. Meanwhile\, his estranged sister\, Lisa\, is grappling with a late-in-life ADHD diagnosis\, an unexpected romance and a frightening health reality of her own. As secrets simmer and second chances collide\, both siblings are forced to confront what it really means to choose life. \n \n Drawing on Anna Johnston’s experience working in aged care\, the novel offers a rare and compassionate perspective on how people diagnosed with dementia are often dismissed\, underestimated and quietly erased. By telling the story through the eyes of a man who carries the diagnosis yet remains fully lucid\, the book invites readers to experience\, from the inside\, what it feels like to be unseen. \n \n Described as ‘Ratatouille meets A Man Called Ove’\, Anna Johnston’s second novel blends warmth\, humour and emotional depth while tackling timely conversations around ageing\, dementia\, neurodiversity\, LGBTQIA+ visibility in aged care\, and the power of everyday kindness. It is about being seen\, by others\, and by ourselves\, and about the possibility of reconciliation\, healing and second chances at any stage of life. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Anna Johnston\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anna Johnston is a former baby\, aspiring octogenarian and Australian author with a love for the heartfelt and hilarious. She grew up in country Victoria before moving to Melbourne where she lives with her husband and daughters. Anna followed her heart into her grandfather’s nursing home where she became the social support coordinator\, taking great delight in shaking up the usual program. When injury left her unable to continue working in aged care\, she began to write about it\, channelling her love for older people onto the page. Anna’s debut novel The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife became a international bestseller and has been optioned by Netflix. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Praise for When lemons give you life \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event will be supported by Collins Booksellers on Lydiard \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ‘An absolute chef’s kiss of a novel\, prepared with heart and humour\, guaranteed to please your palate.’ Troy Hunter\, author of Gus and the Missing Boy‘Smart\, authentic and full of heart.’ Graeme Simsion\, internationally bestselling author of The Rosie Project‘Written with empathy\, insight and authenticity\, When Lemons Give You Life is a delicious journey from regret to reconciliation. Heartfelt\, funny and uplifting.’ Julietta Henderson\, bestselling author of The Funny Thing About Norman Foreman ‘For the burnt-out and world-weary\, Anna Johnston’s novels offer essential therapy – wickedly funny stories about flawed heroes with the power to  restore our faith in each other.’ Kirsten Miller\, author of Lula Dean’s Little Library of Banned Books ‘A delicious treat of a novel\, rich with thecomplex flavours of love\, loss\, familial relationships and redemption. I adored it.’ Emma Grey\, internationally bestselling author of Pictures of You ‘Anna Johnston imbues her characters with a warmth\, tenderness and singularity that makes them irresistible. A charming tale of redemption\, complex sibling bonds and the joy of a meal cooked with love\, this book will leave your heart full and your tastebuds ignited.’ Mikki Brammer\,  internationally bestselling author of The Collected Regrets of Clover \n \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/great-aussie-road-trip-heather-ewart/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Festival,Fundraiser,Important Dates,Library,Members,Talk ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/heather-square-promo-final.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240911T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240911T203000 DTSTAMP:20260417T064715 CREATED:20240520T012535Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250325T015057Z UID:55305-1726081200-1726086600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Kadampa Meditation Series | Embracing Change & Finding Purpose DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Anna Johnston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 30\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n8:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.78 \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 When lemons give you life \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anna Johnston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ‘Smart\, authentic and full of heart’ – Graeme Simsion \n \n From the author of The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Redemption is a dish best served warm… \n \n Retired Michelin-star chef Griff Barlow has lost his appetite for life. Widowed\, grieving and living in an aged care facility where beige slop passes for food\, Griff is done – with guilt\, with loneliness and with the lie that made headlines when he was diagnosed with dementia. Planning one final act\, Griff breaks into the nursing home kitchen to cook one last lemon tart. But the simple act of cooking awakens a long-forgotten joy and soon he’s restoring flavour\, dignity and delight to his fellow residents. Meanwhile\, his estranged sister\, Lisa\, is grappling with a late-in-life ADHD diagnosis\, an unexpected romance and a frightening health reality of her own. As secrets simmer and second chances collide\, both siblings are forced to confront what it really means to choose life. \n \n Drawing on Anna Johnston’s experience working in aged care\, the novel offers a rare and compassionate perspective on how people diagnosed with dementia are often dismissed\, underestimated and quietly erased. By telling the story through the eyes of a man who carries the diagnosis yet remains fully lucid\, the book invites readers to experience\, from the inside\, what it feels like to be unseen. \n \n Described as ‘Ratatouille meets A Man Called Ove’\, Anna Johnston’s second novel blends warmth\, humour and emotional depth while tackling timely conversations around ageing\, dementia\, neurodiversity\, LGBTQIA+ visibility in aged care\, and the power of everyday kindness. It is about being seen\, by others\, and by ourselves\, and about the possibility of reconciliation\, healing and second chances at any stage of life. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Anna Johnston\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anna Johnston is a former baby\, aspiring octogenarian and Australian author with a love for the heartfelt and hilarious. She grew up in country Victoria before moving to Melbourne where she lives with her husband and daughters. Anna followed her heart into her grandfather’s nursing home where she became the social support coordinator\, taking great delight in shaking up the usual program. When injury left her unable to continue working in aged care\, she began to write about it\, channelling her love for older people onto the page. Anna’s debut novel The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife became a international bestseller and has been optioned by Netflix. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Praise for When lemons give you life \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event will be supported by Collins Booksellers on Lydiard \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ‘An absolute chef’s kiss of a novel\, prepared with heart and humour\, guaranteed to please your palate.’ Troy Hunter\, author of Gus and the Missing Boy‘Smart\, authentic and full of heart.’ Graeme Simsion\, internationally bestselling author of The Rosie Project‘Written with empathy\, insight and authenticity\, When Lemons Give You Life is a delicious journey from regret to reconciliation. Heartfelt\, funny and uplifting.’ Julietta Henderson\, bestselling author of The Funny Thing About Norman Foreman ‘For the burnt-out and world-weary\, Anna Johnston’s novels offer essential therapy – wickedly funny stories about flawed heroes with the power to  restore our faith in each other.’ Kirsten Miller\, author of Lula Dean’s Little Library of Banned Books ‘A delicious treat of a novel\, rich with thecomplex flavours of love\, loss\, familial relationships and redemption. I adored it.’ Emma Grey\, internationally bestselling author of Pictures of You ‘Anna Johnston imbues her characters with a warmth\, tenderness and singularity that makes them irresistible. A charming tale of redemption\, complex sibling bonds and the joy of a meal cooked with love\, this book will leave your heart full and your tastebuds ignited.’ Mikki Brammer\,  internationally bestselling author of The Collected Regrets of Clover \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/kadampa-meditation-series-11-sep-24/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:kadampa ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/ecfp-square.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240912T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240912T210000 DTSTAMP:20260417T064715 CREATED:20240130T005136Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250325T143031Z UID:50621-1726169400-1726174800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Ballarat Film Society | Stop Making Sense DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Anna Johnston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 30\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n8:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.78 \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 When lemons give you life \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anna Johnston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ‘Smart\, authentic and full of heart’ – Graeme Simsion \n \n From the author of The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Redemption is a dish best served warm… \n \n Retired Michelin-star chef Griff Barlow has lost his appetite for life. Widowed\, grieving and living in an aged care facility where beige slop passes for food\, Griff is done – with guilt\, with loneliness and with the lie that made headlines when he was diagnosed with dementia. Planning one final act\, Griff breaks into the nursing home kitchen to cook one last lemon tart. But the simple act of cooking awakens a long-forgotten joy and soon he’s restoring flavour\, dignity and delight to his fellow residents. Meanwhile\, his estranged sister\, Lisa\, is grappling with a late-in-life ADHD diagnosis\, an unexpected romance and a frightening health reality of her own. As secrets simmer and second chances collide\, both siblings are forced to confront what it really means to choose life. \n \n Drawing on Anna Johnston’s experience working in aged care\, the novel offers a rare and compassionate perspective on how people diagnosed with dementia are often dismissed\, underestimated and quietly erased. By telling the story through the eyes of a man who carries the diagnosis yet remains fully lucid\, the book invites readers to experience\, from the inside\, what it feels like to be unseen. \n \n Described as ‘Ratatouille meets A Man Called Ove’\, Anna Johnston’s second novel blends warmth\, humour and emotional depth while tackling timely conversations around ageing\, dementia\, neurodiversity\, LGBTQIA+ visibility in aged care\, and the power of everyday kindness. It is about being seen\, by others\, and by ourselves\, and about the possibility of reconciliation\, healing and second chances at any stage of life. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Anna Johnston\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anna Johnston is a former baby\, aspiring octogenarian and Australian author with a love for the heartfelt and hilarious. She grew up in country Victoria before moving to Melbourne where she lives with her husband and daughters. Anna followed her heart into her grandfather’s nursing home where she became the social support coordinator\, taking great delight in shaking up the usual program. When injury left her unable to continue working in aged care\, she began to write about it\, channelling her love for older people onto the page. Anna’s debut novel The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife became a international bestseller and has been optioned by Netflix. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Praise for When lemons give you life \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event will be supported by Collins Booksellers on Lydiard \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ‘An absolute chef’s kiss of a novel\, prepared with heart and humour\, guaranteed to please your palate.’ Troy Hunter\, author of Gus and the Missing Boy‘Smart\, authentic and full of heart.’ Graeme Simsion\, internationally bestselling author of The Rosie Project‘Written with empathy\, insight and authenticity\, When Lemons Give You Life is a delicious journey from regret to reconciliation. Heartfelt\, funny and uplifting.’ Julietta Henderson\, bestselling author of The Funny Thing About Norman Foreman ‘For the burnt-out and world-weary\, Anna Johnston’s novels offer essential therapy – wickedly funny stories about flawed heroes with the power to  restore our faith in each other.’ Kirsten Miller\, author of Lula Dean’s Little Library of Banned Books ‘A delicious treat of a novel\, rich with thecomplex flavours of love\, loss\, familial relationships and redemption. I adored it.’ Emma Grey\, internationally bestselling author of Pictures of You ‘Anna Johnston imbues her characters with a warmth\, tenderness and singularity that makes them irresistible. A charming tale of redemption\, complex sibling bonds and the joy of a meal cooked with love\, this book will leave your heart full and your tastebuds ignited.’ Mikki Brammer\,  internationally bestselling author of The Collected Regrets of Clover \n \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-stop-making-sense/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Ballarat Film Society,Externally Produced Event,Film ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/stop-making-sense-2-e1706576214232.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240918T110000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240918T123000 DTSTAMP:20260417T064715 CREATED:20240804T231543Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250325T040008Z UID:57916-1726657200-1726662600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:AMaGA National Conference | Concurrent Session: Innovation; rethinking museums DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Anna Johnston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 30\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n8:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.78 \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 When lemons give you life \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anna Johnston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ‘Smart\, authentic and full of heart’ – Graeme Simsion \n \n From the author of The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Redemption is a dish best served warm… \n \n Retired Michelin-star chef Griff Barlow has lost his appetite for life. Widowed\, grieving and living in an aged care facility where beige slop passes for food\, Griff is done – with guilt\, with loneliness and with the lie that made headlines when he was diagnosed with dementia. Planning one final act\, Griff breaks into the nursing home kitchen to cook one last lemon tart. But the simple act of cooking awakens a long-forgotten joy and soon he’s restoring flavour\, dignity and delight to his fellow residents. Meanwhile\, his estranged sister\, Lisa\, is grappling with a late-in-life ADHD diagnosis\, an unexpected romance and a frightening health reality of her own. As secrets simmer and second chances collide\, both siblings are forced to confront what it really means to choose life. \n \n Drawing on Anna Johnston’s experience working in aged care\, the novel offers a rare and compassionate perspective on how people diagnosed with dementia are often dismissed\, underestimated and quietly erased. By telling the story through the eyes of a man who carries the diagnosis yet remains fully lucid\, the book invites readers to experience\, from the inside\, what it feels like to be unseen. \n \n Described as ‘Ratatouille meets A Man Called Ove’\, Anna Johnston’s second novel blends warmth\, humour and emotional depth while tackling timely conversations around ageing\, dementia\, neurodiversity\, LGBTQIA+ visibility in aged care\, and the power of everyday kindness. It is about being seen\, by others\, and by ourselves\, and about the possibility of reconciliation\, healing and second chances at any stage of life. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Anna Johnston\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anna Johnston is a former baby\, aspiring octogenarian and Australian author with a love for the heartfelt and hilarious. She grew up in country Victoria before moving to Melbourne where she lives with her husband and daughters. Anna followed her heart into her grandfather’s nursing home where she became the social support coordinator\, taking great delight in shaking up the usual program. When injury left her unable to continue working in aged care\, she began to write about it\, channelling her love for older people onto the page. Anna’s debut novel The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife became a international bestseller and has been optioned by Netflix. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Praise for When lemons give you life \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event will be supported by Collins Booksellers on Lydiard \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ‘An absolute chef’s kiss of a novel\, prepared with heart and humour\, guaranteed to please your palate.’ Troy Hunter\, author of Gus and the Missing Boy‘Smart\, authentic and full of heart.’ Graeme Simsion\, internationally bestselling author of The Rosie Project‘Written with empathy\, insight and authenticity\, When Lemons Give You Life is a delicious journey from regret to reconciliation. Heartfelt\, funny and uplifting.’ Julietta Henderson\, bestselling author of The Funny Thing About Norman Foreman ‘For the burnt-out and world-weary\, Anna Johnston’s novels offer essential therapy – wickedly funny stories about flawed heroes with the power to  restore our faith in each other.’ Kirsten Miller\, author of Lula Dean’s Little Library of Banned Books ‘A delicious treat of a novel\, rich with thecomplex flavours of love\, loss\, familial relationships and redemption. I adored it.’ Emma Grey\, internationally bestselling author of Pictures of You ‘Anna Johnston imbues her characters with a warmth\, tenderness and singularity that makes them irresistible. A charming tale of redemption\, complex sibling bonds and the joy of a meal cooked with love\, this book will leave your heart full and your tastebuds ignited.’ Mikki Brammer\,  internationally bestselling author of The Collected Regrets of Clover \n \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/amaga-concurrent-sessions-innovation/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:AMaGA National Conference,Important Dates ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/amaga-2024-e1721197223454.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240918T110000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240918T123000 DTSTAMP:20260417T064715 CREATED:20240805T022050Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240805T022416Z UID:58035-1726657200-1726662600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:AMaGA National Conference | Concurrent Session: (un)Common Ground DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Anna Johnston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 30\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n8:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.78 \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 When lemons give you life \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anna Johnston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ‘Smart\, authentic and full of heart’ – Graeme Simsion \n \n From the author of The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Redemption is a dish best served warm… \n \n Retired Michelin-star chef Griff Barlow has lost his appetite for life. Widowed\, grieving and living in an aged care facility where beige slop passes for food\, Griff is done – with guilt\, with loneliness and with the lie that made headlines when he was diagnosed with dementia. Planning one final act\, Griff breaks into the nursing home kitchen to cook one last lemon tart. But the simple act of cooking awakens a long-forgotten joy and soon he’s restoring flavour\, dignity and delight to his fellow residents. Meanwhile\, his estranged sister\, Lisa\, is grappling with a late-in-life ADHD diagnosis\, an unexpected romance and a frightening health reality of her own. As secrets simmer and second chances collide\, both siblings are forced to confront what it really means to choose life. \n \n Drawing on Anna Johnston’s experience working in aged care\, the novel offers a rare and compassionate perspective on how people diagnosed with dementia are often dismissed\, underestimated and quietly erased. By telling the story through the eyes of a man who carries the diagnosis yet remains fully lucid\, the book invites readers to experience\, from the inside\, what it feels like to be unseen. \n \n Described as ‘Ratatouille meets A Man Called Ove’\, Anna Johnston’s second novel blends warmth\, humour and emotional depth while tackling timely conversations around ageing\, dementia\, neurodiversity\, LGBTQIA+ visibility in aged care\, and the power of everyday kindness. It is about being seen\, by others\, and by ourselves\, and about the possibility of reconciliation\, healing and second chances at any stage of life. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Anna Johnston\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anna Johnston is a former baby\, aspiring octogenarian and Australian author with a love for the heartfelt and hilarious. She grew up in country Victoria before moving to Melbourne where she lives with her husband and daughters. Anna followed her heart into her grandfather’s nursing home where she became the social support coordinator\, taking great delight in shaking up the usual program. When injury left her unable to continue working in aged care\, she began to write about it\, channelling her love for older people onto the page. Anna’s debut novel The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife became a international bestseller and has been optioned by Netflix. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Praise for When lemons give you life \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event will be supported by Collins Booksellers on Lydiard \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ‘An absolute chef’s kiss of a novel\, prepared with heart and humour\, guaranteed to please your palate.’ Troy Hunter\, author of Gus and the Missing Boy‘Smart\, authentic and full of heart.’ Graeme Simsion\, internationally bestselling author of The Rosie Project‘Written with empathy\, insight and authenticity\, When Lemons Give You Life is a delicious journey from regret to reconciliation. Heartfelt\, funny and uplifting.’ Julietta Henderson\, bestselling author of The Funny Thing About Norman Foreman ‘For the burnt-out and world-weary\, Anna Johnston’s novels offer essential therapy – wickedly funny stories about flawed heroes with the power to  restore our faith in each other.’ Kirsten Miller\, author of Lula Dean’s Little Library of Banned Books ‘A delicious treat of a novel\, rich with thecomplex flavours of love\, loss\, familial relationships and redemption. I adored it.’ Emma Grey\, internationally bestselling author of Pictures of You ‘Anna Johnston imbues her characters with a warmth\, tenderness and singularity that makes them irresistible. A charming tale of redemption\, complex sibling bonds and the joy of a meal cooked with love\, this book will leave your heart full and your tastebuds ignited.’ Mikki Brammer\,  internationally bestselling author of The Collected Regrets of Clover \n \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/concurrent-session-un-common-ground/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:AMaGA National Conference,Important Dates ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/amaga-2024-e1721197223454.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240918T153000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240918T170000 DTSTAMP:20260417T064715 CREATED:20240804T235106Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250325T040001Z UID:57939-1726673400-1726678800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:AMaGA National Conference | Concurrent Session: Challenging inequity from within DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Anna Johnston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 30\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n8:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.78 \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 When lemons give you life \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anna Johnston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ‘Smart\, authentic and full of heart’ – Graeme Simsion \n \n From the author of The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Redemption is a dish best served warm… \n \n Retired Michelin-star chef Griff Barlow has lost his appetite for life. Widowed\, grieving and living in an aged care facility where beige slop passes for food\, Griff is done – with guilt\, with loneliness and with the lie that made headlines when he was diagnosed with dementia. Planning one final act\, Griff breaks into the nursing home kitchen to cook one last lemon tart. But the simple act of cooking awakens a long-forgotten joy and soon he’s restoring flavour\, dignity and delight to his fellow residents. Meanwhile\, his estranged sister\, Lisa\, is grappling with a late-in-life ADHD diagnosis\, an unexpected romance and a frightening health reality of her own. As secrets simmer and second chances collide\, both siblings are forced to confront what it really means to choose life. \n \n Drawing on Anna Johnston’s experience working in aged care\, the novel offers a rare and compassionate perspective on how people diagnosed with dementia are often dismissed\, underestimated and quietly erased. By telling the story through the eyes of a man who carries the diagnosis yet remains fully lucid\, the book invites readers to experience\, from the inside\, what it feels like to be unseen. \n \n Described as ‘Ratatouille meets A Man Called Ove’\, Anna Johnston’s second novel blends warmth\, humour and emotional depth while tackling timely conversations around ageing\, dementia\, neurodiversity\, LGBTQIA+ visibility in aged care\, and the power of everyday kindness. It is about being seen\, by others\, and by ourselves\, and about the possibility of reconciliation\, healing and second chances at any stage of life. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Anna Johnston\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anna Johnston is a former baby\, aspiring octogenarian and Australian author with a love for the heartfelt and hilarious. She grew up in country Victoria before moving to Melbourne where she lives with her husband and daughters. Anna followed her heart into her grandfather’s nursing home where she became the social support coordinator\, taking great delight in shaking up the usual program. When injury left her unable to continue working in aged care\, she began to write about it\, channelling her love for older people onto the page. Anna’s debut novel The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife became a international bestseller and has been optioned by Netflix. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Praise for When lemons give you life \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event will be supported by Collins Booksellers on Lydiard \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ‘An absolute chef’s kiss of a novel\, prepared with heart and humour\, guaranteed to please your palate.’ Troy Hunter\, author of Gus and the Missing Boy‘Smart\, authentic and full of heart.’ Graeme Simsion\, internationally bestselling author of The Rosie Project‘Written with empathy\, insight and authenticity\, When Lemons Give You Life is a delicious journey from regret to reconciliation. Heartfelt\, funny and uplifting.’ Julietta Henderson\, bestselling author of The Funny Thing About Norman Foreman ‘For the burnt-out and world-weary\, Anna Johnston’s novels offer essential therapy – wickedly funny stories about flawed heroes with the power to  restore our faith in each other.’ Kirsten Miller\, author of Lula Dean’s Little Library of Banned Books ‘A delicious treat of a novel\, rich with thecomplex flavours of love\, loss\, familial relationships and redemption. I adored it.’ Emma Grey\, internationally bestselling author of Pictures of You ‘Anna Johnston imbues her characters with a warmth\, tenderness and singularity that makes them irresistible. A charming tale of redemption\, complex sibling bonds and the joy of a meal cooked with love\, this book will leave your heart full and your tastebuds ignited.’ Mikki Brammer\,  internationally bestselling author of The Collected Regrets of Clover \n \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/amaga-concurrent-sessions-enequity/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:AMaGA National Conference,Important Dates ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/amaga-2024-e1721197223454.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240918T153000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240918T170000 DTSTAMP:20260417T064715 CREATED:20240805T015320Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250325T035956Z UID:58013-1726673400-1726678800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:AMaGA National Conference | Concurrent Session: Coexistence through touring DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Anna Johnston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 30\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n8:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.78 \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 When lemons give you life \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anna Johnston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ‘Smart\, authentic and full of heart’ – Graeme Simsion \n \n From the author of The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Redemption is a dish best served warm… \n \n Retired Michelin-star chef Griff Barlow has lost his appetite for life. Widowed\, grieving and living in an aged care facility where beige slop passes for food\, Griff is done – with guilt\, with loneliness and with the lie that made headlines when he was diagnosed with dementia. Planning one final act\, Griff breaks into the nursing home kitchen to cook one last lemon tart. But the simple act of cooking awakens a long-forgotten joy and soon he’s restoring flavour\, dignity and delight to his fellow residents. Meanwhile\, his estranged sister\, Lisa\, is grappling with a late-in-life ADHD diagnosis\, an unexpected romance and a frightening health reality of her own. As secrets simmer and second chances collide\, both siblings are forced to confront what it really means to choose life. \n \n Drawing on Anna Johnston’s experience working in aged care\, the novel offers a rare and compassionate perspective on how people diagnosed with dementia are often dismissed\, underestimated and quietly erased. By telling the story through the eyes of a man who carries the diagnosis yet remains fully lucid\, the book invites readers to experience\, from the inside\, what it feels like to be unseen. \n \n Described as ‘Ratatouille meets A Man Called Ove’\, Anna Johnston’s second novel blends warmth\, humour and emotional depth while tackling timely conversations around ageing\, dementia\, neurodiversity\, LGBTQIA+ visibility in aged care\, and the power of everyday kindness. It is about being seen\, by others\, and by ourselves\, and about the possibility of reconciliation\, healing and second chances at any stage of life. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Anna Johnston\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anna Johnston is a former baby\, aspiring octogenarian and Australian author with a love for the heartfelt and hilarious. She grew up in country Victoria before moving to Melbourne where she lives with her husband and daughters. Anna followed her heart into her grandfather’s nursing home where she became the social support coordinator\, taking great delight in shaking up the usual program. When injury left her unable to continue working in aged care\, she began to write about it\, channelling her love for older people onto the page. Anna’s debut novel The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife became a international bestseller and has been optioned by Netflix. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Praise for When lemons give you life \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event will be supported by Collins Booksellers on Lydiard \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ‘An absolute chef’s kiss of a novel\, prepared with heart and humour\, guaranteed to please your palate.’ Troy Hunter\, author of Gus and the Missing Boy‘Smart\, authentic and full of heart.’ Graeme Simsion\, internationally bestselling author of The Rosie Project‘Written with empathy\, insight and authenticity\, When Lemons Give You Life is a delicious journey from regret to reconciliation. Heartfelt\, funny and uplifting.’ Julietta Henderson\, bestselling author of The Funny Thing About Norman Foreman ‘For the burnt-out and world-weary\, Anna Johnston’s novels offer essential therapy – wickedly funny stories about flawed heroes with the power to  restore our faith in each other.’ Kirsten Miller\, author of Lula Dean’s Little Library of Banned Books ‘A delicious treat of a novel\, rich with thecomplex flavours of love\, loss\, familial relationships and redemption. I adored it.’ Emma Grey\, internationally bestselling author of Pictures of You ‘Anna Johnston imbues her characters with a warmth\, tenderness and singularity that makes them irresistible. A charming tale of redemption\, complex sibling bonds and the joy of a meal cooked with love\, this book will leave your heart full and your tastebuds ignited.’ Mikki Brammer\,  internationally bestselling author of The Collected Regrets of Clover \n \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/amaga-national-converence-concurrent-session-coexistence-touring/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:AMaGA National Conference,Important Dates ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/amaga-2024-e1721197223454.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240918T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240918T203000 DTSTAMP:20260417T064715 CREATED:20240520T012804Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250325T015054Z UID:55307-1726686000-1726691400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Kadampa Meditation Series | Embracing Change & Finding Purpose DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Anna Johnston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 30\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n8:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.78 \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 When lemons give you life \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anna Johnston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ‘Smart\, authentic and full of heart’ – Graeme Simsion \n \n From the author of The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Redemption is a dish best served warm… \n \n Retired Michelin-star chef Griff Barlow has lost his appetite for life. Widowed\, grieving and living in an aged care facility where beige slop passes for food\, Griff is done – with guilt\, with loneliness and with the lie that made headlines when he was diagnosed with dementia. Planning one final act\, Griff breaks into the nursing home kitchen to cook one last lemon tart. But the simple act of cooking awakens a long-forgotten joy and soon he’s restoring flavour\, dignity and delight to his fellow residents. Meanwhile\, his estranged sister\, Lisa\, is grappling with a late-in-life ADHD diagnosis\, an unexpected romance and a frightening health reality of her own. As secrets simmer and second chances collide\, both siblings are forced to confront what it really means to choose life. \n \n Drawing on Anna Johnston’s experience working in aged care\, the novel offers a rare and compassionate perspective on how people diagnosed with dementia are often dismissed\, underestimated and quietly erased. By telling the story through the eyes of a man who carries the diagnosis yet remains fully lucid\, the book invites readers to experience\, from the inside\, what it feels like to be unseen. \n \n Described as ‘Ratatouille meets A Man Called Ove’\, Anna Johnston’s second novel blends warmth\, humour and emotional depth while tackling timely conversations around ageing\, dementia\, neurodiversity\, LGBTQIA+ visibility in aged care\, and the power of everyday kindness. It is about being seen\, by others\, and by ourselves\, and about the possibility of reconciliation\, healing and second chances at any stage of life. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Anna Johnston\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anna Johnston is a former baby\, aspiring octogenarian and Australian author with a love for the heartfelt and hilarious. She grew up in country Victoria before moving to Melbourne where she lives with her husband and daughters. Anna followed her heart into her grandfather’s nursing home where she became the social support coordinator\, taking great delight in shaking up the usual program. When injury left her unable to continue working in aged care\, she began to write about it\, channelling her love for older people onto the page. Anna’s debut novel The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife became a international bestseller and has been optioned by Netflix. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Praise for When lemons give you life \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event will be supported by Collins Booksellers on Lydiard \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ‘An absolute chef’s kiss of a novel\, prepared with heart and humour\, guaranteed to please your palate.’ Troy Hunter\, author of Gus and the Missing Boy‘Smart\, authentic and full of heart.’ Graeme Simsion\, internationally bestselling author of The Rosie Project‘Written with empathy\, insight and authenticity\, When Lemons Give You Life is a delicious journey from regret to reconciliation. Heartfelt\, funny and uplifting.’ Julietta Henderson\, bestselling author of The Funny Thing About Norman Foreman ‘For the burnt-out and world-weary\, Anna Johnston’s novels offer essential therapy – wickedly funny stories about flawed heroes with the power to  restore our faith in each other.’ Kirsten Miller\, author of Lula Dean’s Little Library of Banned Books ‘A delicious treat of a novel\, rich with thecomplex flavours of love\, loss\, familial relationships and redemption. I adored it.’ Emma Grey\, internationally bestselling author of Pictures of You ‘Anna Johnston imbues her characters with a warmth\, tenderness and singularity that makes them irresistible. A charming tale of redemption\, complex sibling bonds and the joy of a meal cooked with love\, this book will leave your heart full and your tastebuds ignited.’ Mikki Brammer\,  internationally bestselling author of The Collected Regrets of Clover \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/kadampa-meditation-series-18-sep-24/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:kadampa ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/ecfp-square.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240919T110000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240919T123000 DTSTAMP:20260417T064715 CREATED:20240804T235505Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250325T035958Z UID:57946-1726743600-1726749000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:AMaGA National Conference | Concurrent Session: Gatekeeping DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Anna Johnston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 30\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n8:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.78 \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 When lemons give you life \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anna Johnston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ‘Smart\, authentic and full of heart’ – Graeme Simsion \n \n From the author of The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Redemption is a dish best served warm… \n \n Retired Michelin-star chef Griff Barlow has lost his appetite for life. Widowed\, grieving and living in an aged care facility where beige slop passes for food\, Griff is done – with guilt\, with loneliness and with the lie that made headlines when he was diagnosed with dementia. Planning one final act\, Griff breaks into the nursing home kitchen to cook one last lemon tart. But the simple act of cooking awakens a long-forgotten joy and soon he’s restoring flavour\, dignity and delight to his fellow residents. Meanwhile\, his estranged sister\, Lisa\, is grappling with a late-in-life ADHD diagnosis\, an unexpected romance and a frightening health reality of her own. As secrets simmer and second chances collide\, both siblings are forced to confront what it really means to choose life. \n \n Drawing on Anna Johnston’s experience working in aged care\, the novel offers a rare and compassionate perspective on how people diagnosed with dementia are often dismissed\, underestimated and quietly erased. By telling the story through the eyes of a man who carries the diagnosis yet remains fully lucid\, the book invites readers to experience\, from the inside\, what it feels like to be unseen. \n \n Described as ‘Ratatouille meets A Man Called Ove’\, Anna Johnston’s second novel blends warmth\, humour and emotional depth while tackling timely conversations around ageing\, dementia\, neurodiversity\, LGBTQIA+ visibility in aged care\, and the power of everyday kindness. It is about being seen\, by others\, and by ourselves\, and about the possibility of reconciliation\, healing and second chances at any stage of life. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Anna Johnston\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anna Johnston is a former baby\, aspiring octogenarian and Australian author with a love for the heartfelt and hilarious. She grew up in country Victoria before moving to Melbourne where she lives with her husband and daughters. Anna followed her heart into her grandfather’s nursing home where she became the social support coordinator\, taking great delight in shaking up the usual program. When injury left her unable to continue working in aged care\, she began to write about it\, channelling her love for older people onto the page. Anna’s debut novel The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife became a international bestseller and has been optioned by Netflix. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Praise for When lemons give you life \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event will be supported by Collins Booksellers on Lydiard \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ‘An absolute chef’s kiss of a novel\, prepared with heart and humour\, guaranteed to please your palate.’ Troy Hunter\, author of Gus and the Missing Boy‘Smart\, authentic and full of heart.’ Graeme Simsion\, internationally bestselling author of The Rosie Project‘Written with empathy\, insight and authenticity\, When Lemons Give You Life is a delicious journey from regret to reconciliation. Heartfelt\, funny and uplifting.’ Julietta Henderson\, bestselling author of The Funny Thing About Norman Foreman ‘For the burnt-out and world-weary\, Anna Johnston’s novels offer essential therapy – wickedly funny stories about flawed heroes with the power to  restore our faith in each other.’ Kirsten Miller\, author of Lula Dean’s Little Library of Banned Books ‘A delicious treat of a novel\, rich with thecomplex flavours of love\, loss\, familial relationships and redemption. I adored it.’ Emma Grey\, internationally bestselling author of Pictures of You ‘Anna Johnston imbues her characters with a warmth\, tenderness and singularity that makes them irresistible. A charming tale of redemption\, complex sibling bonds and the joy of a meal cooked with love\, this book will leave your heart full and your tastebuds ignited.’ Mikki Brammer\,  internationally bestselling author of The Collected Regrets of Clover \n \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/amaga-concurrent-sessions-gatekeeping/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:AMaGA National Conference,Important Dates ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/amaga-2024-e1721197223454.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240919T110000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240919T123000 DTSTAMP:20260417T064715 CREATED:20240805T023039Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240805T023211Z UID:58038-1726743600-1726749000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:AMaGA National Conference | Concurrent Session: Caring for collections DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Anna Johnston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 30\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n8:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.78 \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 When lemons give you life \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anna Johnston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ‘Smart\, authentic and full of heart’ – Graeme Simsion \n \n From the author of The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Redemption is a dish best served warm… \n \n Retired Michelin-star chef Griff Barlow has lost his appetite for life. Widowed\, grieving and living in an aged care facility where beige slop passes for food\, Griff is done – with guilt\, with loneliness and with the lie that made headlines when he was diagnosed with dementia. Planning one final act\, Griff breaks into the nursing home kitchen to cook one last lemon tart. But the simple act of cooking awakens a long-forgotten joy and soon he’s restoring flavour\, dignity and delight to his fellow residents. Meanwhile\, his estranged sister\, Lisa\, is grappling with a late-in-life ADHD diagnosis\, an unexpected romance and a frightening health reality of her own. As secrets simmer and second chances collide\, both siblings are forced to confront what it really means to choose life. \n \n Drawing on Anna Johnston’s experience working in aged care\, the novel offers a rare and compassionate perspective on how people diagnosed with dementia are often dismissed\, underestimated and quietly erased. By telling the story through the eyes of a man who carries the diagnosis yet remains fully lucid\, the book invites readers to experience\, from the inside\, what it feels like to be unseen. \n \n Described as ‘Ratatouille meets A Man Called Ove’\, Anna Johnston’s second novel blends warmth\, humour and emotional depth while tackling timely conversations around ageing\, dementia\, neurodiversity\, LGBTQIA+ visibility in aged care\, and the power of everyday kindness. It is about being seen\, by others\, and by ourselves\, and about the possibility of reconciliation\, healing and second chances at any stage of life. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Anna Johnston\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anna Johnston is a former baby\, aspiring octogenarian and Australian author with a love for the heartfelt and hilarious. She grew up in country Victoria before moving to Melbourne where she lives with her husband and daughters. Anna followed her heart into her grandfather’s nursing home where she became the social support coordinator\, taking great delight in shaking up the usual program. When injury left her unable to continue working in aged care\, she began to write about it\, channelling her love for older people onto the page. Anna’s debut novel The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife became a international bestseller and has been optioned by Netflix. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Praise for When lemons give you life \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event will be supported by Collins Booksellers on Lydiard \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ‘An absolute chef’s kiss of a novel\, prepared with heart and humour\, guaranteed to please your palate.’ Troy Hunter\, author of Gus and the Missing Boy‘Smart\, authentic and full of heart.’ Graeme Simsion\, internationally bestselling author of The Rosie Project‘Written with empathy\, insight and authenticity\, When Lemons Give You Life is a delicious journey from regret to reconciliation. Heartfelt\, funny and uplifting.’ Julietta Henderson\, bestselling author of The Funny Thing About Norman Foreman ‘For the burnt-out and world-weary\, Anna Johnston’s novels offer essential therapy – wickedly funny stories about flawed heroes with the power to  restore our faith in each other.’ Kirsten Miller\, author of Lula Dean’s Little Library of Banned Books ‘A delicious treat of a novel\, rich with thecomplex flavours of love\, loss\, familial relationships and redemption. I adored it.’ Emma Grey\, internationally bestselling author of Pictures of You ‘Anna Johnston imbues her characters with a warmth\, tenderness and singularity that makes them irresistible. A charming tale of redemption\, complex sibling bonds and the joy of a meal cooked with love\, this book will leave your heart full and your tastebuds ignited.’ Mikki Brammer\,  internationally bestselling author of The Collected Regrets of Clover \n \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/concurrent-session-caring-for-collections/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:AMaGA National Conference,Important Dates ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/amaga-2024-e1721197223454.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240919T153000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240919T170000 DTSTAMP:20260417T064715 CREATED:20240804T234629Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250325T040006Z UID:57932-1726759800-1726765200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:AMaGA National Conference | Concurrent Session: Activism and climate DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Anna Johnston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 30\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n8:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.78 \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 When lemons give you life \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anna Johnston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ‘Smart\, authentic and full of heart’ – Graeme Simsion \n \n From the author of The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Redemption is a dish best served warm… \n \n Retired Michelin-star chef Griff Barlow has lost his appetite for life. Widowed\, grieving and living in an aged care facility where beige slop passes for food\, Griff is done – with guilt\, with loneliness and with the lie that made headlines when he was diagnosed with dementia. Planning one final act\, Griff breaks into the nursing home kitchen to cook one last lemon tart. But the simple act of cooking awakens a long-forgotten joy and soon he’s restoring flavour\, dignity and delight to his fellow residents. Meanwhile\, his estranged sister\, Lisa\, is grappling with a late-in-life ADHD diagnosis\, an unexpected romance and a frightening health reality of her own. As secrets simmer and second chances collide\, both siblings are forced to confront what it really means to choose life. \n \n Drawing on Anna Johnston’s experience working in aged care\, the novel offers a rare and compassionate perspective on how people diagnosed with dementia are often dismissed\, underestimated and quietly erased. By telling the story through the eyes of a man who carries the diagnosis yet remains fully lucid\, the book invites readers to experience\, from the inside\, what it feels like to be unseen. \n \n Described as ‘Ratatouille meets A Man Called Ove’\, Anna Johnston’s second novel blends warmth\, humour and emotional depth while tackling timely conversations around ageing\, dementia\, neurodiversity\, LGBTQIA+ visibility in aged care\, and the power of everyday kindness. It is about being seen\, by others\, and by ourselves\, and about the possibility of reconciliation\, healing and second chances at any stage of life. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Anna Johnston\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anna Johnston is a former baby\, aspiring octogenarian and Australian author with a love for the heartfelt and hilarious. She grew up in country Victoria before moving to Melbourne where she lives with her husband and daughters. Anna followed her heart into her grandfather’s nursing home where she became the social support coordinator\, taking great delight in shaking up the usual program. When injury left her unable to continue working in aged care\, she began to write about it\, channelling her love for older people onto the page. Anna’s debut novel The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife became a international bestseller and has been optioned by Netflix. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Praise for When lemons give you life \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event will be supported by Collins Booksellers on Lydiard \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ‘An absolute chef’s kiss of a novel\, prepared with heart and humour\, guaranteed to please your palate.’ Troy Hunter\, author of Gus and the Missing Boy‘Smart\, authentic and full of heart.’ Graeme Simsion\, internationally bestselling author of The Rosie Project‘Written with empathy\, insight and authenticity\, When Lemons Give You Life is a delicious journey from regret to reconciliation. Heartfelt\, funny and uplifting.’ Julietta Henderson\, bestselling author of The Funny Thing About Norman Foreman ‘For the burnt-out and world-weary\, Anna Johnston’s novels offer essential therapy – wickedly funny stories about flawed heroes with the power to  restore our faith in each other.’ Kirsten Miller\, author of Lula Dean’s Little Library of Banned Books ‘A delicious treat of a novel\, rich with thecomplex flavours of love\, loss\, familial relationships and redemption. I adored it.’ Emma Grey\, internationally bestselling author of Pictures of You ‘Anna Johnston imbues her characters with a warmth\, tenderness and singularity that makes them irresistible. A charming tale of redemption\, complex sibling bonds and the joy of a meal cooked with love\, this book will leave your heart full and your tastebuds ignited.’ Mikki Brammer\,  internationally bestselling author of The Collected Regrets of Clover \n \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/amaga-concurrent-sessions-activism-climate/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:AMaGA National Conference,Important Dates ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/amaga-2024-e1721197223454.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240919T153000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240919T170000 DTSTAMP:20260417T064715 CREATED:20240805T023259Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240805T023456Z UID:58041-1726759800-1726765200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:AMaGA National Conference | Concurrent Session: Education and Public Programs DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Anna Johnston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 30\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n8:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.78 \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 When lemons give you life \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anna Johnston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ‘Smart\, authentic and full of heart’ – Graeme Simsion \n \n From the author of The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Redemption is a dish best served warm… \n \n Retired Michelin-star chef Griff Barlow has lost his appetite for life. Widowed\, grieving and living in an aged care facility where beige slop passes for food\, Griff is done – with guilt\, with loneliness and with the lie that made headlines when he was diagnosed with dementia. Planning one final act\, Griff breaks into the nursing home kitchen to cook one last lemon tart. But the simple act of cooking awakens a long-forgotten joy and soon he’s restoring flavour\, dignity and delight to his fellow residents. Meanwhile\, his estranged sister\, Lisa\, is grappling with a late-in-life ADHD diagnosis\, an unexpected romance and a frightening health reality of her own. As secrets simmer and second chances collide\, both siblings are forced to confront what it really means to choose life. \n \n Drawing on Anna Johnston’s experience working in aged care\, the novel offers a rare and compassionate perspective on how people diagnosed with dementia are often dismissed\, underestimated and quietly erased. By telling the story through the eyes of a man who carries the diagnosis yet remains fully lucid\, the book invites readers to experience\, from the inside\, what it feels like to be unseen. \n \n Described as ‘Ratatouille meets A Man Called Ove’\, Anna Johnston’s second novel blends warmth\, humour and emotional depth while tackling timely conversations around ageing\, dementia\, neurodiversity\, LGBTQIA+ visibility in aged care\, and the power of everyday kindness. It is about being seen\, by others\, and by ourselves\, and about the possibility of reconciliation\, healing and second chances at any stage of life. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Anna Johnston\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anna Johnston is a former baby\, aspiring octogenarian and Australian author with a love for the heartfelt and hilarious. She grew up in country Victoria before moving to Melbourne where she lives with her husband and daughters. Anna followed her heart into her grandfather’s nursing home where she became the social support coordinator\, taking great delight in shaking up the usual program. When injury left her unable to continue working in aged care\, she began to write about it\, channelling her love for older people onto the page. Anna’s debut novel The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife became a international bestseller and has been optioned by Netflix. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Praise for When lemons give you life \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event will be supported by Collins Booksellers on Lydiard \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ‘An absolute chef’s kiss of a novel\, prepared with heart and humour\, guaranteed to please your palate.’ Troy Hunter\, author of Gus and the Missing Boy‘Smart\, authentic and full of heart.’ Graeme Simsion\, internationally bestselling author of The Rosie Project‘Written with empathy\, insight and authenticity\, When Lemons Give You Life is a delicious journey from regret to reconciliation. Heartfelt\, funny and uplifting.’ Julietta Henderson\, bestselling author of The Funny Thing About Norman Foreman ‘For the burnt-out and world-weary\, Anna Johnston’s novels offer essential therapy – wickedly funny stories about flawed heroes with the power to  restore our faith in each other.’ Kirsten Miller\, author of Lula Dean’s Little Library of Banned Books ‘A delicious treat of a novel\, rich with thecomplex flavours of love\, loss\, familial relationships and redemption. I adored it.’ Emma Grey\, internationally bestselling author of Pictures of You ‘Anna Johnston imbues her characters with a warmth\, tenderness and singularity that makes them irresistible. A charming tale of redemption\, complex sibling bonds and the joy of a meal cooked with love\, this book will leave your heart full and your tastebuds ignited.’ Mikki Brammer\,  internationally bestselling author of The Collected Regrets of Clover \n \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/amaga-education-public-programs/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:AMaGA National Conference,Important Dates ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/amaga-2024-e1721197223454.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240919T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240919T200000 DTSTAMP:20260417T064715 CREATED:20240701T013506Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250325T082242Z UID:56747-1726768800-1726776000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with T.L.W. Robb | From The Top: From Ballarat to Baghdad DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Anna Johnston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 30\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n8:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.78 \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 When lemons give you life \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anna Johnston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ‘Smart\, authentic and full of heart’ – Graeme Simsion \n \n From the author of The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Redemption is a dish best served warm… \n \n Retired Michelin-star chef Griff Barlow has lost his appetite for life. Widowed\, grieving and living in an aged care facility where beige slop passes for food\, Griff is done – with guilt\, with loneliness and with the lie that made headlines when he was diagnosed with dementia. Planning one final act\, Griff breaks into the nursing home kitchen to cook one last lemon tart. But the simple act of cooking awakens a long-forgotten joy and soon he’s restoring flavour\, dignity and delight to his fellow residents. Meanwhile\, his estranged sister\, Lisa\, is grappling with a late-in-life ADHD diagnosis\, an unexpected romance and a frightening health reality of her own. As secrets simmer and second chances collide\, both siblings are forced to confront what it really means to choose life. \n \n Drawing on Anna Johnston’s experience working in aged care\, the novel offers a rare and compassionate perspective on how people diagnosed with dementia are often dismissed\, underestimated and quietly erased. By telling the story through the eyes of a man who carries the diagnosis yet remains fully lucid\, the book invites readers to experience\, from the inside\, what it feels like to be unseen. \n \n Described as ‘Ratatouille meets A Man Called Ove’\, Anna Johnston’s second novel blends warmth\, humour and emotional depth while tackling timely conversations around ageing\, dementia\, neurodiversity\, LGBTQIA+ visibility in aged care\, and the power of everyday kindness. It is about being seen\, by others\, and by ourselves\, and about the possibility of reconciliation\, healing and second chances at any stage of life. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Anna Johnston\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anna Johnston is a former baby\, aspiring octogenarian and Australian author with a love for the heartfelt and hilarious. She grew up in country Victoria before moving to Melbourne where she lives with her husband and daughters. Anna followed her heart into her grandfather’s nursing home where she became the social support coordinator\, taking great delight in shaking up the usual program. When injury left her unable to continue working in aged care\, she began to write about it\, channelling her love for older people onto the page. Anna’s debut novel The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife became a international bestseller and has been optioned by Netflix. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Praise for When lemons give you life \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event will be supported by Collins Booksellers on Lydiard \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ‘An absolute chef’s kiss of a novel\, prepared with heart and humour\, guaranteed to please your palate.’ Troy Hunter\, author of Gus and the Missing Boy‘Smart\, authentic and full of heart.’ Graeme Simsion\, internationally bestselling author of The Rosie Project‘Written with empathy\, insight and authenticity\, When Lemons Give You Life is a delicious journey from regret to reconciliation. Heartfelt\, funny and uplifting.’ Julietta Henderson\, bestselling author of The Funny Thing About Norman Foreman ‘For the burnt-out and world-weary\, Anna Johnston’s novels offer essential therapy – wickedly funny stories about flawed heroes with the power to  restore our faith in each other.’ Kirsten Miller\, author of Lula Dean’s Little Library of Banned Books ‘A delicious treat of a novel\, rich with thecomplex flavours of love\, loss\, familial relationships and redemption. I adored it.’ Emma Grey\, internationally bestselling author of Pictures of You ‘Anna Johnston imbues her characters with a warmth\, tenderness and singularity that makes them irresistible. A charming tale of redemption\, complex sibling bonds and the joy of a meal cooked with love\, this book will leave your heart full and your tastebuds ignited.’ Mikki Brammer\,  internationally bestselling author of The Collected Regrets of Clover \n \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/tlw-rob-in-conversation/ LOCATION:Hugh Williamson Foyer\, Level 1 CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Fundraiser,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/tlw-robb-promo-square.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240920T123000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20240920T153000 DTSTAMP:20260417T064715 CREATED:20240805T010545Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240805T021822Z UID:58003-1726835400-1726846200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:AMaGA National Conference | Concurrent Session: Education & Exhibitions National Networks DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Anna Johnston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 30\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n8:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.78 \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 When lemons give you life \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anna Johnston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ‘Smart\, authentic and full of heart’ – Graeme Simsion \n \n From the author of The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Redemption is a dish best served warm… \n \n Retired Michelin-star chef Griff Barlow has lost his appetite for life. Widowed\, grieving and living in an aged care facility where beige slop passes for food\, Griff is done – with guilt\, with loneliness and with the lie that made headlines when he was diagnosed with dementia. Planning one final act\, Griff breaks into the nursing home kitchen to cook one last lemon tart. But the simple act of cooking awakens a long-forgotten joy and soon he’s restoring flavour\, dignity and delight to his fellow residents. Meanwhile\, his estranged sister\, Lisa\, is grappling with a late-in-life ADHD diagnosis\, an unexpected romance and a frightening health reality of her own. As secrets simmer and second chances collide\, both siblings are forced to confront what it really means to choose life. \n \n Drawing on Anna Johnston’s experience working in aged care\, the novel offers a rare and compassionate perspective on how people diagnosed with dementia are often dismissed\, underestimated and quietly erased. By telling the story through the eyes of a man who carries the diagnosis yet remains fully lucid\, the book invites readers to experience\, from the inside\, what it feels like to be unseen. \n \n Described as ‘Ratatouille meets A Man Called Ove’\, Anna Johnston’s second novel blends warmth\, humour and emotional depth while tackling timely conversations around ageing\, dementia\, neurodiversity\, LGBTQIA+ visibility in aged care\, and the power of everyday kindness. It is about being seen\, by others\, and by ourselves\, and about the possibility of reconciliation\, healing and second chances at any stage of life. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Anna Johnston\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anna Johnston is a former baby\, aspiring octogenarian and Australian author with a love for the heartfelt and hilarious. She grew up in country Victoria before moving to Melbourne where she lives with her husband and daughters. Anna followed her heart into her grandfather’s nursing home where she became the social support coordinator\, taking great delight in shaking up the usual program. When injury left her unable to continue working in aged care\, she began to write about it\, channelling her love for older people onto the page. Anna’s debut novel The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife became a international bestseller and has been optioned by Netflix. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Praise for When lemons give you life \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event will be supported by Collins Booksellers on Lydiard \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ‘An absolute chef’s kiss of a novel\, prepared with heart and humour\, guaranteed to please your palate.’ Troy Hunter\, author of Gus and the Missing Boy‘Smart\, authentic and full of heart.’ Graeme Simsion\, internationally bestselling author of The Rosie Project‘Written with empathy\, insight and authenticity\, When Lemons Give You Life is a delicious journey from regret to reconciliation. Heartfelt\, funny and uplifting.’ Julietta Henderson\, bestselling author of The Funny Thing About Norman Foreman ‘For the burnt-out and world-weary\, Anna Johnston’s novels offer essential therapy – wickedly funny stories about flawed heroes with the power to  restore our faith in each other.’ Kirsten Miller\, author of Lula Dean’s Little Library of Banned Books ‘A delicious treat of a novel\, rich with thecomplex flavours of love\, loss\, familial relationships and redemption. I adored it.’ Emma Grey\, internationally bestselling author of Pictures of You ‘Anna Johnston imbues her characters with a warmth\, tenderness and singularity that makes them irresistible. A charming tale of redemption\, complex sibling bonds and the joy of a meal cooked with love\, this book will leave your heart full and your tastebuds ignited.’ Mikki Brammer\,  internationally bestselling author of The Collected Regrets of Clover \n \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/amaga-concurrent-sessions-education-exhibitions/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:AMaGA National Conference,Important Dates ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/amaga-2024-e1721197223454.webp END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR