BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute - ECPv6.17.1//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:Australia/Melbourne BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+1100 TZOFFSETTO:+1000 TZNAME:AEST DTSTART:20250405T160000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+1000 TZOFFSETTO:+1100 TZNAME:AEDT DTSTART:20251004T160000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+1100 TZOFFSETTO:+1000 TZNAME:AEST DTSTART:20260404T160000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+1000 TZOFFSETTO:+1100 TZNAME:AEDT DTSTART:20261003T160000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+1100 TZOFFSETTO:+1000 TZNAME:AEST DTSTART:20270403T160000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+1000 TZOFFSETTO:+1100 TZNAME:AEDT DTSTART:20271002T160000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+1100 TZOFFSETTO:+1000 TZNAME:AEST DTSTART:20280401T160000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+1000 TZOFFSETTO:+1100 TZNAME:AEDT DTSTART:20280930T160000 END:DAYLIGHT END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260822T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260822T203000 DTSTAMP:20260629T035634Z CREATED:20260629T033731Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260629T035634Z UID:73965-1787425200-1787430600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:You Can't Tell Anyone\, A Ballarat National Theatre Production DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 1\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tell Me Something True \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n MICHAEL IS COMING HOME: This is his 20th novel\, but the 1st to be set in Australia. This is a once-in-a-lifetime publishing event for a book destined to enter the Australian canon as a classic. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The astonishing\, emotional epic from Michael Robotham: a mystery\, a coming-of-age tale and a love story wrapped into one\, set against the simmering tensions of a small Australian town. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I look along the road and notice how many people are standing outside their houses or watching from doorways and windows. Staring. Studying. ‘Do you think this town will ever forgive me?’ I ask. ‘Not in a million years.’ \n \n Small towns are quick to anger and slow to forgive\, but Arlo Hackett doesn’t expect mercy when he emerges from a twelve-year prison sentence and makes his way back to Yulara\, a waypoint on Australia’s Great Southern Road. The last time Arlo was home\, his brother Luke was charged with a terrible crime and Arlo was found guilty by association. His return to the goldrush town is like cracking open a time capsule full of hatred and violence\, along with memories of the people he loved – the ones he couldn’t save. Yulara wants Arlo gone\, or worse\, but every insult and humiliation pushes him to confront what really happened all those years ago. The truth will shock you\, surprise you\, and break your heart. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early praise for Tell Me Something True \n \n ‘My book of the year. This compelling\, intriguing and entertaining masterpiece examines the conscience of a whole town and should win every award going. Genius’ LIZ NUGENT ‘Emotional\, startling and beautifully crafted; it brings small town Australia into your living room’ VAL MC DERMID ‘Most writers would be proud to produce\, in their entire career\, a book half as good as Tell Me Something True. No one can touch him when it comes to infusing crime with character and heart’ LINWOOD BARCLAY \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Michael Robotham | Photo Tony Mott\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham Before becoming a novelist\, Michael Robotham was a feature writer and investigative reporter working in Britain\, Australia and America\, and with clinical and forensic psychologists as they helped police investigate complex\, psychologically driven crimes. 2024 marked the 20-year anniversary of the  publication of his debut thriller\, The Suspect\, which introduced clinical psychologist Joe O’Loughlin\, sold more than a million copies around the world and is now a major TV series starring Aidan Turner on ABC TV. Michael’s standalone thriller The Secrets She Keeps was adapted for TV by Network 10 and the BBC . Michael is the only Australian to twice win the UK’s prestigious Gold Dagger Award for best crime novel\, for Life or Death and Good Girl\, Bad Girl as well as the Ian Fleming Steel Dagger Award for When She Was Good. Lying Beside You was shortlisted for the Australian Crime Writers Association’s Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction 2023.  Storm Child\, the fourth novel in his globally bestselling Cyrus Haven and Evie Cormac series\, was a No. 1 national bestseller in Australia. The White Crow\, the second book in his Philomena McCarthy series\, following on from the internationally bestselling When You Are Mine was shortlisted for the 2025 Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction. Arlo’s story\, at the centre of Michael Robotham’s 20th novel\, Tell Me Something True\, has held a special place in his heart since he first dreamt of becoming a writer. Four decades later\, he’s ready to share it with readers for the first time. Michael lives in Sydney. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/you-cant-tell-anyone-22-aug/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Ballarat National Theatre,Theatre Production ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/YCTA-ATDW-1600-x-1200-px-e1782429973747.png ORGANIZER;CN="Ballarat National Theatre":MAILTO:contact@bnt.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260823T130000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260823T143000 DTSTAMP:20260630T001508Z CREATED:20260629T033831Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260630T001508Z UID:73967-1787490000-1787495400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:You Can't Tell Anyone\, A Ballarat National Theatre Production DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 1\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tell Me Something True \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n MICHAEL IS COMING HOME: This is his 20th novel\, but the 1st to be set in Australia. This is a once-in-a-lifetime publishing event for a book destined to enter the Australian canon as a classic. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The astonishing\, emotional epic from Michael Robotham: a mystery\, a coming-of-age tale and a love story wrapped into one\, set against the simmering tensions of a small Australian town. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I look along the road and notice how many people are standing outside their houses or watching from doorways and windows. Staring. Studying. ‘Do you think this town will ever forgive me?’ I ask. ‘Not in a million years.’ \n \n Small towns are quick to anger and slow to forgive\, but Arlo Hackett doesn’t expect mercy when he emerges from a twelve-year prison sentence and makes his way back to Yulara\, a waypoint on Australia’s Great Southern Road. The last time Arlo was home\, his brother Luke was charged with a terrible crime and Arlo was found guilty by association. His return to the goldrush town is like cracking open a time capsule full of hatred and violence\, along with memories of the people he loved – the ones he couldn’t save. Yulara wants Arlo gone\, or worse\, but every insult and humiliation pushes him to confront what really happened all those years ago. The truth will shock you\, surprise you\, and break your heart. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early praise for Tell Me Something True \n \n ‘My book of the year. This compelling\, intriguing and entertaining masterpiece examines the conscience of a whole town and should win every award going. Genius’ LIZ NUGENT ‘Emotional\, startling and beautifully crafted; it brings small town Australia into your living room’ VAL MC DERMID ‘Most writers would be proud to produce\, in their entire career\, a book half as good as Tell Me Something True. No one can touch him when it comes to infusing crime with character and heart’ LINWOOD BARCLAY \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Michael Robotham | Photo Tony Mott\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham Before becoming a novelist\, Michael Robotham was a feature writer and investigative reporter working in Britain\, Australia and America\, and with clinical and forensic psychologists as they helped police investigate complex\, psychologically driven crimes. 2024 marked the 20-year anniversary of the  publication of his debut thriller\, The Suspect\, which introduced clinical psychologist Joe O’Loughlin\, sold more than a million copies around the world and is now a major TV series starring Aidan Turner on ABC TV. Michael’s standalone thriller The Secrets She Keeps was adapted for TV by Network 10 and the BBC . Michael is the only Australian to twice win the UK’s prestigious Gold Dagger Award for best crime novel\, for Life or Death and Good Girl\, Bad Girl as well as the Ian Fleming Steel Dagger Award for When She Was Good. Lying Beside You was shortlisted for the Australian Crime Writers Association’s Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction 2023.  Storm Child\, the fourth novel in his globally bestselling Cyrus Haven and Evie Cormac series\, was a No. 1 national bestseller in Australia. The White Crow\, the second book in his Philomena McCarthy series\, following on from the internationally bestselling When You Are Mine was shortlisted for the 2025 Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction. Arlo’s story\, at the centre of Michael Robotham’s 20th novel\, Tell Me Something True\, has held a special place in his heart since he first dreamt of becoming a writer. Four decades later\, he’s ready to share it with readers for the first time. Michael lives in Sydney. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/you-cant-tell-anyone-23-aug-matinee/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Ballarat National Theatre,Theatre Production ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/YCTA-ATDW-1600-x-1200-px-e1782429973747.png ORGANIZER;CN="Ballarat National Theatre":MAILTO:contact@bnt.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260823T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260823T193000 DTSTAMP:20260630T015250Z CREATED:20260629T033929Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260630T015250Z UID:73969-1787508000-1787513400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:You Can't Tell Anyone\, A Ballarat National Theatre Production DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 1\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tell Me Something True \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n MICHAEL IS COMING HOME: This is his 20th novel\, but the 1st to be set in Australia. This is a once-in-a-lifetime publishing event for a book destined to enter the Australian canon as a classic. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The astonishing\, emotional epic from Michael Robotham: a mystery\, a coming-of-age tale and a love story wrapped into one\, set against the simmering tensions of a small Australian town. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I look along the road and notice how many people are standing outside their houses or watching from doorways and windows. Staring. Studying. ‘Do you think this town will ever forgive me?’ I ask. ‘Not in a million years.’ \n \n Small towns are quick to anger and slow to forgive\, but Arlo Hackett doesn’t expect mercy when he emerges from a twelve-year prison sentence and makes his way back to Yulara\, a waypoint on Australia’s Great Southern Road. The last time Arlo was home\, his brother Luke was charged with a terrible crime and Arlo was found guilty by association. His return to the goldrush town is like cracking open a time capsule full of hatred and violence\, along with memories of the people he loved – the ones he couldn’t save. Yulara wants Arlo gone\, or worse\, but every insult and humiliation pushes him to confront what really happened all those years ago. The truth will shock you\, surprise you\, and break your heart. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early praise for Tell Me Something True \n \n ‘My book of the year. This compelling\, intriguing and entertaining masterpiece examines the conscience of a whole town and should win every award going. Genius’ LIZ NUGENT ‘Emotional\, startling and beautifully crafted; it brings small town Australia into your living room’ VAL MC DERMID ‘Most writers would be proud to produce\, in their entire career\, a book half as good as Tell Me Something True. No one can touch him when it comes to infusing crime with character and heart’ LINWOOD BARCLAY \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Michael Robotham | Photo Tony Mott\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham Before becoming a novelist\, Michael Robotham was a feature writer and investigative reporter working in Britain\, Australia and America\, and with clinical and forensic psychologists as they helped police investigate complex\, psychologically driven crimes. 2024 marked the 20-year anniversary of the  publication of his debut thriller\, The Suspect\, which introduced clinical psychologist Joe O’Loughlin\, sold more than a million copies around the world and is now a major TV series starring Aidan Turner on ABC TV. Michael’s standalone thriller The Secrets She Keeps was adapted for TV by Network 10 and the BBC . Michael is the only Australian to twice win the UK’s prestigious Gold Dagger Award for best crime novel\, for Life or Death and Good Girl\, Bad Girl as well as the Ian Fleming Steel Dagger Award for When She Was Good. Lying Beside You was shortlisted for the Australian Crime Writers Association’s Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction 2023.  Storm Child\, the fourth novel in his globally bestselling Cyrus Haven and Evie Cormac series\, was a No. 1 national bestseller in Australia. The White Crow\, the second book in his Philomena McCarthy series\, following on from the internationally bestselling When You Are Mine was shortlisted for the 2025 Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction. Arlo’s story\, at the centre of Michael Robotham’s 20th novel\, Tell Me Something True\, has held a special place in his heart since he first dreamt of becoming a writer. Four decades later\, he’s ready to share it with readers for the first time. Michael lives in Sydney. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/you-cant-tell-anyone-23-aug/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Ballarat National Theatre,Theatre Production ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/YCTA-ATDW-1600-x-1200-px-e1782429973747.png ORGANIZER;CN="Ballarat National Theatre":MAILTO:contact@bnt.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260826T184500 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260826T223000 DTSTAMP:20260728T045315Z CREATED:20260715T040559Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260728T045315Z UID:74558-1787769900-1787783400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:BMI Trivia Night Fundraiser DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 1\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tell Me Something True \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n MICHAEL IS COMING HOME: This is his 20th novel\, but the 1st to be set in Australia. This is a once-in-a-lifetime publishing event for a book destined to enter the Australian canon as a classic. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The astonishing\, emotional epic from Michael Robotham: a mystery\, a coming-of-age tale and a love story wrapped into one\, set against the simmering tensions of a small Australian town. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I look along the road and notice how many people are standing outside their houses or watching from doorways and windows. Staring. Studying. ‘Do you think this town will ever forgive me?’ I ask. ‘Not in a million years.’ \n \n Small towns are quick to anger and slow to forgive\, but Arlo Hackett doesn’t expect mercy when he emerges from a twelve-year prison sentence and makes his way back to Yulara\, a waypoint on Australia’s Great Southern Road. The last time Arlo was home\, his brother Luke was charged with a terrible crime and Arlo was found guilty by association. His return to the goldrush town is like cracking open a time capsule full of hatred and violence\, along with memories of the people he loved – the ones he couldn’t save. Yulara wants Arlo gone\, or worse\, but every insult and humiliation pushes him to confront what really happened all those years ago. The truth will shock you\, surprise you\, and break your heart. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early praise for Tell Me Something True \n \n ‘My book of the year. This compelling\, intriguing and entertaining masterpiece examines the conscience of a whole town and should win every award going. Genius’ LIZ NUGENT ‘Emotional\, startling and beautifully crafted; it brings small town Australia into your living room’ VAL MC DERMID ‘Most writers would be proud to produce\, in their entire career\, a book half as good as Tell Me Something True. No one can touch him when it comes to infusing crime with character and heart’ LINWOOD BARCLAY \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Michael Robotham | Photo Tony Mott\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham Before becoming a novelist\, Michael Robotham was a feature writer and investigative reporter working in Britain\, Australia and America\, and with clinical and forensic psychologists as they helped police investigate complex\, psychologically driven crimes. 2024 marked the 20-year anniversary of the  publication of his debut thriller\, The Suspect\, which introduced clinical psychologist Joe O’Loughlin\, sold more than a million copies around the world and is now a major TV series starring Aidan Turner on ABC TV. Michael’s standalone thriller The Secrets She Keeps was adapted for TV by Network 10 and the BBC . Michael is the only Australian to twice win the UK’s prestigious Gold Dagger Award for best crime novel\, for Life or Death and Good Girl\, Bad Girl as well as the Ian Fleming Steel Dagger Award for When She Was Good. Lying Beside You was shortlisted for the Australian Crime Writers Association’s Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction 2023.  Storm Child\, the fourth novel in his globally bestselling Cyrus Haven and Evie Cormac series\, was a No. 1 national bestseller in Australia. The White Crow\, the second book in his Philomena McCarthy series\, following on from the internationally bestselling When You Are Mine was shortlisted for the 2025 Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction. Arlo’s story\, at the centre of Michael Robotham’s 20th novel\, Tell Me Something True\, has held a special place in his heart since he first dreamt of becoming a writer. Four decades later\, he’s ready to share it with readers for the first time. Michael lives in Sydney. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/bmi-trivia-night-fundraiser/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Fundraiser,Important Dates,Members,Vintage & Collectables ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/square-promo-trivia-night.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260902T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260902T193000 DTSTAMP:20260707T051452Z CREATED:20260707T044841Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260707T051452Z UID:74311-1788372000-1788377400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with Lauren Williams & Penny Tangey DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 1\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tell Me Something True \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n MICHAEL IS COMING HOME: This is his 20th novel\, but the 1st to be set in Australia. This is a once-in-a-lifetime publishing event for a book destined to enter the Australian canon as a classic. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The astonishing\, emotional epic from Michael Robotham: a mystery\, a coming-of-age tale and a love story wrapped into one\, set against the simmering tensions of a small Australian town. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I look along the road and notice how many people are standing outside their houses or watching from doorways and windows. Staring. Studying. ‘Do you think this town will ever forgive me?’ I ask. ‘Not in a million years.’ \n \n Small towns are quick to anger and slow to forgive\, but Arlo Hackett doesn’t expect mercy when he emerges from a twelve-year prison sentence and makes his way back to Yulara\, a waypoint on Australia’s Great Southern Road. The last time Arlo was home\, his brother Luke was charged with a terrible crime and Arlo was found guilty by association. His return to the goldrush town is like cracking open a time capsule full of hatred and violence\, along with memories of the people he loved – the ones he couldn’t save. Yulara wants Arlo gone\, or worse\, but every insult and humiliation pushes him to confront what really happened all those years ago. The truth will shock you\, surprise you\, and break your heart. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early praise for Tell Me Something True \n \n ‘My book of the year. This compelling\, intriguing and entertaining masterpiece examines the conscience of a whole town and should win every award going. Genius’ LIZ NUGENT ‘Emotional\, startling and beautifully crafted; it brings small town Australia into your living room’ VAL MC DERMID ‘Most writers would be proud to produce\, in their entire career\, a book half as good as Tell Me Something True. No one can touch him when it comes to infusing crime with character and heart’ LINWOOD BARCLAY \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Michael Robotham | Photo Tony Mott\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham Before becoming a novelist\, Michael Robotham was a feature writer and investigative reporter working in Britain\, Australia and America\, and with clinical and forensic psychologists as they helped police investigate complex\, psychologically driven crimes. 2024 marked the 20-year anniversary of the  publication of his debut thriller\, The Suspect\, which introduced clinical psychologist Joe O’Loughlin\, sold more than a million copies around the world and is now a major TV series starring Aidan Turner on ABC TV. Michael’s standalone thriller The Secrets She Keeps was adapted for TV by Network 10 and the BBC . Michael is the only Australian to twice win the UK’s prestigious Gold Dagger Award for best crime novel\, for Life or Death and Good Girl\, Bad Girl as well as the Ian Fleming Steel Dagger Award for When She Was Good. Lying Beside You was shortlisted for the Australian Crime Writers Association’s Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction 2023.  Storm Child\, the fourth novel in his globally bestselling Cyrus Haven and Evie Cormac series\, was a No. 1 national bestseller in Australia. The White Crow\, the second book in his Philomena McCarthy series\, following on from the internationally bestselling When You Are Mine was shortlisted for the 2025 Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction. Arlo’s story\, at the centre of Michael Robotham’s 20th novel\, Tell Me Something True\, has held a special place in his heart since he first dreamt of becoming a writer. Four decades later\, he’s ready to share it with readers for the first time. Michael lives in Sydney. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/in-conversation-with-lauren-williams-penny-tangey/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/sp-promo-talks-lauren-williams-penny-tangey.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260905T100000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260906T140000 DTSTAMP:20260619T051824Z CREATED:20260604T032725Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260619T051824Z UID:73413-1788602400-1788703200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Book Sale | Reward yourself with some excellent Spring reading DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 1\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tell Me Something True \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n MICHAEL IS COMING HOME: This is his 20th novel\, but the 1st to be set in Australia. This is a once-in-a-lifetime publishing event for a book destined to enter the Australian canon as a classic. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The astonishing\, emotional epic from Michael Robotham: a mystery\, a coming-of-age tale and a love story wrapped into one\, set against the simmering tensions of a small Australian town. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I look along the road and notice how many people are standing outside their houses or watching from doorways and windows. Staring. Studying. ‘Do you think this town will ever forgive me?’ I ask. ‘Not in a million years.’ \n \n Small towns are quick to anger and slow to forgive\, but Arlo Hackett doesn’t expect mercy when he emerges from a twelve-year prison sentence and makes his way back to Yulara\, a waypoint on Australia’s Great Southern Road. The last time Arlo was home\, his brother Luke was charged with a terrible crime and Arlo was found guilty by association. His return to the goldrush town is like cracking open a time capsule full of hatred and violence\, along with memories of the people he loved – the ones he couldn’t save. Yulara wants Arlo gone\, or worse\, but every insult and humiliation pushes him to confront what really happened all those years ago. The truth will shock you\, surprise you\, and break your heart. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early praise for Tell Me Something True \n \n ‘My book of the year. This compelling\, intriguing and entertaining masterpiece examines the conscience of a whole town and should win every award going. Genius’ LIZ NUGENT ‘Emotional\, startling and beautifully crafted; it brings small town Australia into your living room’ VAL MC DERMID ‘Most writers would be proud to produce\, in their entire career\, a book half as good as Tell Me Something True. No one can touch him when it comes to infusing crime with character and heart’ LINWOOD BARCLAY \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Michael Robotham | Photo Tony Mott\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham Before becoming a novelist\, Michael Robotham was a feature writer and investigative reporter working in Britain\, Australia and America\, and with clinical and forensic psychologists as they helped police investigate complex\, psychologically driven crimes. 2024 marked the 20-year anniversary of the  publication of his debut thriller\, The Suspect\, which introduced clinical psychologist Joe O’Loughlin\, sold more than a million copies around the world and is now a major TV series starring Aidan Turner on ABC TV. Michael’s standalone thriller The Secrets She Keeps was adapted for TV by Network 10 and the BBC . Michael is the only Australian to twice win the UK’s prestigious Gold Dagger Award for best crime novel\, for Life or Death and Good Girl\, Bad Girl as well as the Ian Fleming Steel Dagger Award for When She Was Good. Lying Beside You was shortlisted for the Australian Crime Writers Association’s Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction 2023.  Storm Child\, the fourth novel in his globally bestselling Cyrus Haven and Evie Cormac series\, was a No. 1 national bestseller in Australia. The White Crow\, the second book in his Philomena McCarthy series\, following on from the internationally bestselling When You Are Mine was shortlisted for the 2025 Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction. Arlo’s story\, at the centre of Michael Robotham’s 20th novel\, Tell Me Something True\, has held a special place in his heart since he first dreamt of becoming a writer. Four decades later\, he’s ready to share it with readers for the first time. Michael lives in Sydney. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/book-sale-spring-bmi/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Fundraiser,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/square-promo-spring-book-sale.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260906T140000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260906T160000 DTSTAMP:20260604T035434Z CREATED:20260514T044101Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260604T035434Z UID:72995-1788703200-1788710400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Fashion Parade Fundraiser | Vintage & Collectables DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 1\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tell Me Something True \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n MICHAEL IS COMING HOME: This is his 20th novel\, but the 1st to be set in Australia. This is a once-in-a-lifetime publishing event for a book destined to enter the Australian canon as a classic. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The astonishing\, emotional epic from Michael Robotham: a mystery\, a coming-of-age tale and a love story wrapped into one\, set against the simmering tensions of a small Australian town. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I look along the road and notice how many people are standing outside their houses or watching from doorways and windows. Staring. Studying. ‘Do you think this town will ever forgive me?’ I ask. ‘Not in a million years.’ \n \n Small towns are quick to anger and slow to forgive\, but Arlo Hackett doesn’t expect mercy when he emerges from a twelve-year prison sentence and makes his way back to Yulara\, a waypoint on Australia’s Great Southern Road. The last time Arlo was home\, his brother Luke was charged with a terrible crime and Arlo was found guilty by association. His return to the goldrush town is like cracking open a time capsule full of hatred and violence\, along with memories of the people he loved – the ones he couldn’t save. Yulara wants Arlo gone\, or worse\, but every insult and humiliation pushes him to confront what really happened all those years ago. The truth will shock you\, surprise you\, and break your heart. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early praise for Tell Me Something True \n \n ‘My book of the year. This compelling\, intriguing and entertaining masterpiece examines the conscience of a whole town and should win every award going. Genius’ LIZ NUGENT ‘Emotional\, startling and beautifully crafted; it brings small town Australia into your living room’ VAL MC DERMID ‘Most writers would be proud to produce\, in their entire career\, a book half as good as Tell Me Something True. No one can touch him when it comes to infusing crime with character and heart’ LINWOOD BARCLAY \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Michael Robotham | Photo Tony Mott\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham Before becoming a novelist\, Michael Robotham was a feature writer and investigative reporter working in Britain\, Australia and America\, and with clinical and forensic psychologists as they helped police investigate complex\, psychologically driven crimes. 2024 marked the 20-year anniversary of the  publication of his debut thriller\, The Suspect\, which introduced clinical psychologist Joe O’Loughlin\, sold more than a million copies around the world and is now a major TV series starring Aidan Turner on ABC TV. Michael’s standalone thriller The Secrets She Keeps was adapted for TV by Network 10 and the BBC . Michael is the only Australian to twice win the UK’s prestigious Gold Dagger Award for best crime novel\, for Life or Death and Good Girl\, Bad Girl as well as the Ian Fleming Steel Dagger Award for When She Was Good. Lying Beside You was shortlisted for the Australian Crime Writers Association’s Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction 2023.  Storm Child\, the fourth novel in his globally bestselling Cyrus Haven and Evie Cormac series\, was a No. 1 national bestseller in Australia. The White Crow\, the second book in his Philomena McCarthy series\, following on from the internationally bestselling When You Are Mine was shortlisted for the 2025 Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction. Arlo’s story\, at the centre of Michael Robotham’s 20th novel\, Tell Me Something True\, has held a special place in his heart since he first dreamt of becoming a writer. Four decades later\, he’s ready to share it with readers for the first time. Michael lives in Sydney. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/fashion-parade-fundraiser-vintage-collectables/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Fundraiser,Important Dates,Members,Vintage & Collectables ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/promotional-square-2.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260910T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260910T210000 DTSTAMP:20260331T033843Z CREATED:20260129T052341Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T033843Z UID:70438-1789068600-1789074000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Ballarat Film Society | Kōkā DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 1\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tell Me Something True \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n MICHAEL IS COMING HOME: This is his 20th novel\, but the 1st to be set in Australia. This is a once-in-a-lifetime publishing event for a book destined to enter the Australian canon as a classic. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The astonishing\, emotional epic from Michael Robotham: a mystery\, a coming-of-age tale and a love story wrapped into one\, set against the simmering tensions of a small Australian town. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I look along the road and notice how many people are standing outside their houses or watching from doorways and windows. Staring. Studying. ‘Do you think this town will ever forgive me?’ I ask. ‘Not in a million years.’ \n \n Small towns are quick to anger and slow to forgive\, but Arlo Hackett doesn’t expect mercy when he emerges from a twelve-year prison sentence and makes his way back to Yulara\, a waypoint on Australia’s Great Southern Road. The last time Arlo was home\, his brother Luke was charged with a terrible crime and Arlo was found guilty by association. His return to the goldrush town is like cracking open a time capsule full of hatred and violence\, along with memories of the people he loved – the ones he couldn’t save. Yulara wants Arlo gone\, or worse\, but every insult and humiliation pushes him to confront what really happened all those years ago. The truth will shock you\, surprise you\, and break your heart. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early praise for Tell Me Something True \n \n ‘My book of the year. This compelling\, intriguing and entertaining masterpiece examines the conscience of a whole town and should win every award going. Genius’ LIZ NUGENT ‘Emotional\, startling and beautifully crafted; it brings small town Australia into your living room’ VAL MC DERMID ‘Most writers would be proud to produce\, in their entire career\, a book half as good as Tell Me Something True. No one can touch him when it comes to infusing crime with character and heart’ LINWOOD BARCLAY \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Michael Robotham | Photo Tony Mott\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham Before becoming a novelist\, Michael Robotham was a feature writer and investigative reporter working in Britain\, Australia and America\, and with clinical and forensic psychologists as they helped police investigate complex\, psychologically driven crimes. 2024 marked the 20-year anniversary of the  publication of his debut thriller\, The Suspect\, which introduced clinical psychologist Joe O’Loughlin\, sold more than a million copies around the world and is now a major TV series starring Aidan Turner on ABC TV. Michael’s standalone thriller The Secrets She Keeps was adapted for TV by Network 10 and the BBC . Michael is the only Australian to twice win the UK’s prestigious Gold Dagger Award for best crime novel\, for Life or Death and Good Girl\, Bad Girl as well as the Ian Fleming Steel Dagger Award for When She Was Good. Lying Beside You was shortlisted for the Australian Crime Writers Association’s Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction 2023.  Storm Child\, the fourth novel in his globally bestselling Cyrus Haven and Evie Cormac series\, was a No. 1 national bestseller in Australia. The White Crow\, the second book in his Philomena McCarthy series\, following on from the internationally bestselling When You Are Mine was shortlisted for the 2025 Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction. Arlo’s story\, at the centre of Michael Robotham’s 20th novel\, Tell Me Something True\, has held a special place in his heart since he first dreamt of becoming a writer. Four decades later\, he’s ready to share it with readers for the first time. Michael lives in Sydney. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/ballarat-film-society-koka/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Ballarat Film Society,Film ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/koka-sq-promo.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260923T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260923T193000 DTSTAMP:20260619T021935Z CREATED:20260618T020721Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260619T021935Z UID:73660-1790186400-1790191800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with P. A. Swanborough DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 1\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tell Me Something True \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n MICHAEL IS COMING HOME: This is his 20th novel\, but the 1st to be set in Australia. This is a once-in-a-lifetime publishing event for a book destined to enter the Australian canon as a classic. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The astonishing\, emotional epic from Michael Robotham: a mystery\, a coming-of-age tale and a love story wrapped into one\, set against the simmering tensions of a small Australian town. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I look along the road and notice how many people are standing outside their houses or watching from doorways and windows. Staring. Studying. ‘Do you think this town will ever forgive me?’ I ask. ‘Not in a million years.’ \n \n Small towns are quick to anger and slow to forgive\, but Arlo Hackett doesn’t expect mercy when he emerges from a twelve-year prison sentence and makes his way back to Yulara\, a waypoint on Australia’s Great Southern Road. The last time Arlo was home\, his brother Luke was charged with a terrible crime and Arlo was found guilty by association. His return to the goldrush town is like cracking open a time capsule full of hatred and violence\, along with memories of the people he loved – the ones he couldn’t save. Yulara wants Arlo gone\, or worse\, but every insult and humiliation pushes him to confront what really happened all those years ago. The truth will shock you\, surprise you\, and break your heart. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early praise for Tell Me Something True \n \n ‘My book of the year. This compelling\, intriguing and entertaining masterpiece examines the conscience of a whole town and should win every award going. Genius’ LIZ NUGENT ‘Emotional\, startling and beautifully crafted; it brings small town Australia into your living room’ VAL MC DERMID ‘Most writers would be proud to produce\, in their entire career\, a book half as good as Tell Me Something True. No one can touch him when it comes to infusing crime with character and heart’ LINWOOD BARCLAY \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Michael Robotham | Photo Tony Mott\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham Before becoming a novelist\, Michael Robotham was a feature writer and investigative reporter working in Britain\, Australia and America\, and with clinical and forensic psychologists as they helped police investigate complex\, psychologically driven crimes. 2024 marked the 20-year anniversary of the  publication of his debut thriller\, The Suspect\, which introduced clinical psychologist Joe O’Loughlin\, sold more than a million copies around the world and is now a major TV series starring Aidan Turner on ABC TV. Michael’s standalone thriller The Secrets She Keeps was adapted for TV by Network 10 and the BBC . Michael is the only Australian to twice win the UK’s prestigious Gold Dagger Award for best crime novel\, for Life or Death and Good Girl\, Bad Girl as well as the Ian Fleming Steel Dagger Award for When She Was Good. Lying Beside You was shortlisted for the Australian Crime Writers Association’s Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction 2023.  Storm Child\, the fourth novel in his globally bestselling Cyrus Haven and Evie Cormac series\, was a No. 1 national bestseller in Australia. The White Crow\, the second book in his Philomena McCarthy series\, following on from the internationally bestselling When You Are Mine was shortlisted for the 2025 Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction. Arlo’s story\, at the centre of Michael Robotham’s 20th novel\, Tell Me Something True\, has held a special place in his heart since he first dreamt of becoming a writer. Four decades later\, he’s ready to share it with readers for the first time. Michael lives in Sydney. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/in-conversation-with-p-a-swanborough/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/sp-promo-talks-pa-swanborough-v2.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260926T100000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260926T180000 DTSTAMP:20260731T223956Z CREATED:20260721T052530Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260731T223956Z UID:74670-1790416800-1790445600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:The Australian Wiccan Conference 2026 DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 1\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tell Me Something True \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n MICHAEL IS COMING HOME: This is his 20th novel\, but the 1st to be set in Australia. This is a once-in-a-lifetime publishing event for a book destined to enter the Australian canon as a classic. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The astonishing\, emotional epic from Michael Robotham: a mystery\, a coming-of-age tale and a love story wrapped into one\, set against the simmering tensions of a small Australian town. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I look along the road and notice how many people are standing outside their houses or watching from doorways and windows. Staring. Studying. ‘Do you think this town will ever forgive me?’ I ask. ‘Not in a million years.’ \n \n Small towns are quick to anger and slow to forgive\, but Arlo Hackett doesn’t expect mercy when he emerges from a twelve-year prison sentence and makes his way back to Yulara\, a waypoint on Australia’s Great Southern Road. The last time Arlo was home\, his brother Luke was charged with a terrible crime and Arlo was found guilty by association. His return to the goldrush town is like cracking open a time capsule full of hatred and violence\, along with memories of the people he loved – the ones he couldn’t save. Yulara wants Arlo gone\, or worse\, but every insult and humiliation pushes him to confront what really happened all those years ago. The truth will shock you\, surprise you\, and break your heart. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early praise for Tell Me Something True \n \n ‘My book of the year. This compelling\, intriguing and entertaining masterpiece examines the conscience of a whole town and should win every award going. Genius’ LIZ NUGENT ‘Emotional\, startling and beautifully crafted; it brings small town Australia into your living room’ VAL MC DERMID ‘Most writers would be proud to produce\, in their entire career\, a book half as good as Tell Me Something True. No one can touch him when it comes to infusing crime with character and heart’ LINWOOD BARCLAY \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Michael Robotham | Photo Tony Mott\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham Before becoming a novelist\, Michael Robotham was a feature writer and investigative reporter working in Britain\, Australia and America\, and with clinical and forensic psychologists as they helped police investigate complex\, psychologically driven crimes. 2024 marked the 20-year anniversary of the  publication of his debut thriller\, The Suspect\, which introduced clinical psychologist Joe O’Loughlin\, sold more than a million copies around the world and is now a major TV series starring Aidan Turner on ABC TV. Michael’s standalone thriller The Secrets She Keeps was adapted for TV by Network 10 and the BBC . Michael is the only Australian to twice win the UK’s prestigious Gold Dagger Award for best crime novel\, for Life or Death and Good Girl\, Bad Girl as well as the Ian Fleming Steel Dagger Award for When She Was Good. Lying Beside You was shortlisted for the Australian Crime Writers Association’s Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction 2023.  Storm Child\, the fourth novel in his globally bestselling Cyrus Haven and Evie Cormac series\, was a No. 1 national bestseller in Australia. The White Crow\, the second book in his Philomena McCarthy series\, following on from the internationally bestselling When You Are Mine was shortlisted for the 2025 Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction. Arlo’s story\, at the centre of Michael Robotham’s 20th novel\, Tell Me Something True\, has held a special place in his heart since he first dreamt of becoming a writer. Four decades later\, he’s ready to share it with readers for the first time. Michael lives in Sydney. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/awc-2026/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Conference ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/sq-promo-events-AWC.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260929T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260929T193000 DTSTAMP:20260727T053106Z CREATED:20260630T040425Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260727T053106Z UID:74057-1790704800-1790710200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with Sally Mackinnon DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 1\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tell Me Something True \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n MICHAEL IS COMING HOME: This is his 20th novel\, but the 1st to be set in Australia. This is a once-in-a-lifetime publishing event for a book destined to enter the Australian canon as a classic. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The astonishing\, emotional epic from Michael Robotham: a mystery\, a coming-of-age tale and a love story wrapped into one\, set against the simmering tensions of a small Australian town. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I look along the road and notice how many people are standing outside their houses or watching from doorways and windows. Staring. Studying. ‘Do you think this town will ever forgive me?’ I ask. ‘Not in a million years.’ \n \n Small towns are quick to anger and slow to forgive\, but Arlo Hackett doesn’t expect mercy when he emerges from a twelve-year prison sentence and makes his way back to Yulara\, a waypoint on Australia’s Great Southern Road. The last time Arlo was home\, his brother Luke was charged with a terrible crime and Arlo was found guilty by association. His return to the goldrush town is like cracking open a time capsule full of hatred and violence\, along with memories of the people he loved – the ones he couldn’t save. Yulara wants Arlo gone\, or worse\, but every insult and humiliation pushes him to confront what really happened all those years ago. The truth will shock you\, surprise you\, and break your heart. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early praise for Tell Me Something True \n \n ‘My book of the year. This compelling\, intriguing and entertaining masterpiece examines the conscience of a whole town and should win every award going. Genius’ LIZ NUGENT ‘Emotional\, startling and beautifully crafted; it brings small town Australia into your living room’ VAL MC DERMID ‘Most writers would be proud to produce\, in their entire career\, a book half as good as Tell Me Something True. No one can touch him when it comes to infusing crime with character and heart’ LINWOOD BARCLAY \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Michael Robotham | Photo Tony Mott\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham Before becoming a novelist\, Michael Robotham was a feature writer and investigative reporter working in Britain\, Australia and America\, and with clinical and forensic psychologists as they helped police investigate complex\, psychologically driven crimes. 2024 marked the 20-year anniversary of the  publication of his debut thriller\, The Suspect\, which introduced clinical psychologist Joe O’Loughlin\, sold more than a million copies around the world and is now a major TV series starring Aidan Turner on ABC TV. Michael’s standalone thriller The Secrets She Keeps was adapted for TV by Network 10 and the BBC . Michael is the only Australian to twice win the UK’s prestigious Gold Dagger Award for best crime novel\, for Life or Death and Good Girl\, Bad Girl as well as the Ian Fleming Steel Dagger Award for When She Was Good. Lying Beside You was shortlisted for the Australian Crime Writers Association’s Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction 2023.  Storm Child\, the fourth novel in his globally bestselling Cyrus Haven and Evie Cormac series\, was a No. 1 national bestseller in Australia. The White Crow\, the second book in his Philomena McCarthy series\, following on from the internationally bestselling When You Are Mine was shortlisted for the 2025 Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction. Arlo’s story\, at the centre of Michael Robotham’s 20th novel\, Tell Me Something True\, has held a special place in his heart since he first dreamt of becoming a writer. Four decades later\, he’s ready to share it with readers for the first time. Michael lives in Sydney. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/in-conversation-with-sally-mackinnon/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/sp-promo-talks-sally-mackinnon.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261001T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261001T193000 DTSTAMP:20260619T055107Z CREATED:20260618T013735Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260619T055107Z UID:73652-1790877600-1790883000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with Michael Robotham DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 1\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tell Me Something True \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n MICHAEL IS COMING HOME: This is his 20th novel\, but the 1st to be set in Australia. This is a once-in-a-lifetime publishing event for a book destined to enter the Australian canon as a classic. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The astonishing\, emotional epic from Michael Robotham: a mystery\, a coming-of-age tale and a love story wrapped into one\, set against the simmering tensions of a small Australian town. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I look along the road and notice how many people are standing outside their houses or watching from doorways and windows. Staring. Studying. ‘Do you think this town will ever forgive me?’ I ask. ‘Not in a million years.’ \n \n Small towns are quick to anger and slow to forgive\, but Arlo Hackett doesn’t expect mercy when he emerges from a twelve-year prison sentence and makes his way back to Yulara\, a waypoint on Australia’s Great Southern Road. The last time Arlo was home\, his brother Luke was charged with a terrible crime and Arlo was found guilty by association. His return to the goldrush town is like cracking open a time capsule full of hatred and violence\, along with memories of the people he loved – the ones he couldn’t save. Yulara wants Arlo gone\, or worse\, but every insult and humiliation pushes him to confront what really happened all those years ago. The truth will shock you\, surprise you\, and break your heart. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early praise for Tell Me Something True \n \n ‘My book of the year. This compelling\, intriguing and entertaining masterpiece examines the conscience of a whole town and should win every award going. Genius’ LIZ NUGENT ‘Emotional\, startling and beautifully crafted; it brings small town Australia into your living room’ VAL MC DERMID ‘Most writers would be proud to produce\, in their entire career\, a book half as good as Tell Me Something True. No one can touch him when it comes to infusing crime with character and heart’ LINWOOD BARCLAY \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Michael Robotham | Photo Tony Mott\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham Before becoming a novelist\, Michael Robotham was a feature writer and investigative reporter working in Britain\, Australia and America\, and with clinical and forensic psychologists as they helped police investigate complex\, psychologically driven crimes. 2024 marked the 20-year anniversary of the  publication of his debut thriller\, The Suspect\, which introduced clinical psychologist Joe O’Loughlin\, sold more than a million copies around the world and is now a major TV series starring Aidan Turner on ABC TV. Michael’s standalone thriller The Secrets She Keeps was adapted for TV by Network 10 and the BBC . Michael is the only Australian to twice win the UK’s prestigious Gold Dagger Award for best crime novel\, for Life or Death and Good Girl\, Bad Girl as well as the Ian Fleming Steel Dagger Award for When She Was Good. Lying Beside You was shortlisted for the Australian Crime Writers Association’s Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction 2023.  Storm Child\, the fourth novel in his globally bestselling Cyrus Haven and Evie Cormac series\, was a No. 1 national bestseller in Australia. The White Crow\, the second book in his Philomena McCarthy series\, following on from the internationally bestselling When You Are Mine was shortlisted for the 2025 Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction. Arlo’s story\, at the centre of Michael Robotham’s 20th novel\, Tell Me Something True\, has held a special place in his heart since he first dreamt of becoming a writer. Four decades later\, he’s ready to share it with readers for the first time. Michael lives in Sydney. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/in-conversation-with-michael-robotham/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/sp-promo-talks-michael-robotham.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261005T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261005T193000 DTSTAMP:20260730T043550Z CREATED:20260707T044017Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260730T043550Z UID:74304-1791223200-1791228600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with Monica McInerney DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 1\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tell Me Something True \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n MICHAEL IS COMING HOME: This is his 20th novel\, but the 1st to be set in Australia. This is a once-in-a-lifetime publishing event for a book destined to enter the Australian canon as a classic. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The astonishing\, emotional epic from Michael Robotham: a mystery\, a coming-of-age tale and a love story wrapped into one\, set against the simmering tensions of a small Australian town. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I look along the road and notice how many people are standing outside their houses or watching from doorways and windows. Staring. Studying. ‘Do you think this town will ever forgive me?’ I ask. ‘Not in a million years.’ \n \n Small towns are quick to anger and slow to forgive\, but Arlo Hackett doesn’t expect mercy when he emerges from a twelve-year prison sentence and makes his way back to Yulara\, a waypoint on Australia’s Great Southern Road. The last time Arlo was home\, his brother Luke was charged with a terrible crime and Arlo was found guilty by association. His return to the goldrush town is like cracking open a time capsule full of hatred and violence\, along with memories of the people he loved – the ones he couldn’t save. Yulara wants Arlo gone\, or worse\, but every insult and humiliation pushes him to confront what really happened all those years ago. The truth will shock you\, surprise you\, and break your heart. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early praise for Tell Me Something True \n \n ‘My book of the year. This compelling\, intriguing and entertaining masterpiece examines the conscience of a whole town and should win every award going. Genius’ LIZ NUGENT ‘Emotional\, startling and beautifully crafted; it brings small town Australia into your living room’ VAL MC DERMID ‘Most writers would be proud to produce\, in their entire career\, a book half as good as Tell Me Something True. No one can touch him when it comes to infusing crime with character and heart’ LINWOOD BARCLAY \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Michael Robotham | Photo Tony Mott\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham Before becoming a novelist\, Michael Robotham was a feature writer and investigative reporter working in Britain\, Australia and America\, and with clinical and forensic psychologists as they helped police investigate complex\, psychologically driven crimes. 2024 marked the 20-year anniversary of the  publication of his debut thriller\, The Suspect\, which introduced clinical psychologist Joe O’Loughlin\, sold more than a million copies around the world and is now a major TV series starring Aidan Turner on ABC TV. Michael’s standalone thriller The Secrets She Keeps was adapted for TV by Network 10 and the BBC . Michael is the only Australian to twice win the UK’s prestigious Gold Dagger Award for best crime novel\, for Life or Death and Good Girl\, Bad Girl as well as the Ian Fleming Steel Dagger Award for When She Was Good. Lying Beside You was shortlisted for the Australian Crime Writers Association’s Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction 2023.  Storm Child\, the fourth novel in his globally bestselling Cyrus Haven and Evie Cormac series\, was a No. 1 national bestseller in Australia. The White Crow\, the second book in his Philomena McCarthy series\, following on from the internationally bestselling When You Are Mine was shortlisted for the 2025 Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction. Arlo’s story\, at the centre of Michael Robotham’s 20th novel\, Tell Me Something True\, has held a special place in his heart since he first dreamt of becoming a writer. Four decades later\, he’s ready to share it with readers for the first time. Michael lives in Sydney. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/in-conversation-with-monica-mcinerney/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/sp-promo-talks-monica-mcinerney-v2.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261008T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261008T210000 DTSTAMP:20260331T033815Z CREATED:20260129T054045Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T033815Z UID:70446-1791487800-1791493200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Ballarat Film Society | Bound for Glory DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 1\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tell Me Something True \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n MICHAEL IS COMING HOME: This is his 20th novel\, but the 1st to be set in Australia. This is a once-in-a-lifetime publishing event for a book destined to enter the Australian canon as a classic. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The astonishing\, emotional epic from Michael Robotham: a mystery\, a coming-of-age tale and a love story wrapped into one\, set against the simmering tensions of a small Australian town. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I look along the road and notice how many people are standing outside their houses or watching from doorways and windows. Staring. Studying. ‘Do you think this town will ever forgive me?’ I ask. ‘Not in a million years.’ \n \n Small towns are quick to anger and slow to forgive\, but Arlo Hackett doesn’t expect mercy when he emerges from a twelve-year prison sentence and makes his way back to Yulara\, a waypoint on Australia’s Great Southern Road. The last time Arlo was home\, his brother Luke was charged with a terrible crime and Arlo was found guilty by association. His return to the goldrush town is like cracking open a time capsule full of hatred and violence\, along with memories of the people he loved – the ones he couldn’t save. Yulara wants Arlo gone\, or worse\, but every insult and humiliation pushes him to confront what really happened all those years ago. The truth will shock you\, surprise you\, and break your heart. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early praise for Tell Me Something True \n \n ‘My book of the year. This compelling\, intriguing and entertaining masterpiece examines the conscience of a whole town and should win every award going. Genius’ LIZ NUGENT ‘Emotional\, startling and beautifully crafted; it brings small town Australia into your living room’ VAL MC DERMID ‘Most writers would be proud to produce\, in their entire career\, a book half as good as Tell Me Something True. No one can touch him when it comes to infusing crime with character and heart’ LINWOOD BARCLAY \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Michael Robotham | Photo Tony Mott\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham Before becoming a novelist\, Michael Robotham was a feature writer and investigative reporter working in Britain\, Australia and America\, and with clinical and forensic psychologists as they helped police investigate complex\, psychologically driven crimes. 2024 marked the 20-year anniversary of the  publication of his debut thriller\, The Suspect\, which introduced clinical psychologist Joe O’Loughlin\, sold more than a million copies around the world and is now a major TV series starring Aidan Turner on ABC TV. Michael’s standalone thriller The Secrets She Keeps was adapted for TV by Network 10 and the BBC . Michael is the only Australian to twice win the UK’s prestigious Gold Dagger Award for best crime novel\, for Life or Death and Good Girl\, Bad Girl as well as the Ian Fleming Steel Dagger Award for When She Was Good. Lying Beside You was shortlisted for the Australian Crime Writers Association’s Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction 2023.  Storm Child\, the fourth novel in his globally bestselling Cyrus Haven and Evie Cormac series\, was a No. 1 national bestseller in Australia. The White Crow\, the second book in his Philomena McCarthy series\, following on from the internationally bestselling When You Are Mine was shortlisted for the 2025 Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction. Arlo’s story\, at the centre of Michael Robotham’s 20th novel\, Tell Me Something True\, has held a special place in his heart since he first dreamt of becoming a writer. Four decades later\, he’s ready to share it with readers for the first time. Michael lives in Sydney. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/ballarat-film-society-bound-for-glory/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Ballarat Film Society,Film ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/bound-for-glory-sq-promo.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261009T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261009T220000 DTSTAMP:20260331T023230Z CREATED:20260203T013254Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T023230Z UID:70535-1791572400-1791583200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Telegraph Road - The Dire Straits Legacy: Matt Arthur and The Lazybones DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 1\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tell Me Something True \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n MICHAEL IS COMING HOME: This is his 20th novel\, but the 1st to be set in Australia. This is a once-in-a-lifetime publishing event for a book destined to enter the Australian canon as a classic. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The astonishing\, emotional epic from Michael Robotham: a mystery\, a coming-of-age tale and a love story wrapped into one\, set against the simmering tensions of a small Australian town. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I look along the road and notice how many people are standing outside their houses or watching from doorways and windows. Staring. Studying. ‘Do you think this town will ever forgive me?’ I ask. ‘Not in a million years.’ \n \n Small towns are quick to anger and slow to forgive\, but Arlo Hackett doesn’t expect mercy when he emerges from a twelve-year prison sentence and makes his way back to Yulara\, a waypoint on Australia’s Great Southern Road. The last time Arlo was home\, his brother Luke was charged with a terrible crime and Arlo was found guilty by association. His return to the goldrush town is like cracking open a time capsule full of hatred and violence\, along with memories of the people he loved – the ones he couldn’t save. Yulara wants Arlo gone\, or worse\, but every insult and humiliation pushes him to confront what really happened all those years ago. The truth will shock you\, surprise you\, and break your heart. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early praise for Tell Me Something True \n \n ‘My book of the year. This compelling\, intriguing and entertaining masterpiece examines the conscience of a whole town and should win every award going. Genius’ LIZ NUGENT ‘Emotional\, startling and beautifully crafted; it brings small town Australia into your living room’ VAL MC DERMID ‘Most writers would be proud to produce\, in their entire career\, a book half as good as Tell Me Something True. No one can touch him when it comes to infusing crime with character and heart’ LINWOOD BARCLAY \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Michael Robotham | Photo Tony Mott\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham Before becoming a novelist\, Michael Robotham was a feature writer and investigative reporter working in Britain\, Australia and America\, and with clinical and forensic psychologists as they helped police investigate complex\, psychologically driven crimes. 2024 marked the 20-year anniversary of the  publication of his debut thriller\, The Suspect\, which introduced clinical psychologist Joe O’Loughlin\, sold more than a million copies around the world and is now a major TV series starring Aidan Turner on ABC TV. Michael’s standalone thriller The Secrets She Keeps was adapted for TV by Network 10 and the BBC . Michael is the only Australian to twice win the UK’s prestigious Gold Dagger Award for best crime novel\, for Life or Death and Good Girl\, Bad Girl as well as the Ian Fleming Steel Dagger Award for When She Was Good. Lying Beside You was shortlisted for the Australian Crime Writers Association’s Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction 2023.  Storm Child\, the fourth novel in his globally bestselling Cyrus Haven and Evie Cormac series\, was a No. 1 national bestseller in Australia. The White Crow\, the second book in his Philomena McCarthy series\, following on from the internationally bestselling When You Are Mine was shortlisted for the 2025 Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction. Arlo’s story\, at the centre of Michael Robotham’s 20th novel\, Tell Me Something True\, has held a special place in his heart since he first dreamt of becoming a writer. Four decades later\, he’s ready to share it with readers for the first time. Michael lives in Sydney. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/telegraph-road-the-dire-straits-legacy/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Live Music ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/matt-arthur-sq-promo.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Matt Arthur Music":MAILTO:matt@mattarthurmusic.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261010T141500 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261010T161500 DTSTAMP:20260729T022505Z CREATED:20260715T015745Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260729T022505Z UID:74546-1791641700-1791648900@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Royal Australian Navy 125th Anniversary Concert DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 1\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tell Me Something True \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n MICHAEL IS COMING HOME: This is his 20th novel\, but the 1st to be set in Australia. This is a once-in-a-lifetime publishing event for a book destined to enter the Australian canon as a classic. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The astonishing\, emotional epic from Michael Robotham: a mystery\, a coming-of-age tale and a love story wrapped into one\, set against the simmering tensions of a small Australian town. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I look along the road and notice how many people are standing outside their houses or watching from doorways and windows. Staring. Studying. ‘Do you think this town will ever forgive me?’ I ask. ‘Not in a million years.’ \n \n Small towns are quick to anger and slow to forgive\, but Arlo Hackett doesn’t expect mercy when he emerges from a twelve-year prison sentence and makes his way back to Yulara\, a waypoint on Australia’s Great Southern Road. The last time Arlo was home\, his brother Luke was charged with a terrible crime and Arlo was found guilty by association. His return to the goldrush town is like cracking open a time capsule full of hatred and violence\, along with memories of the people he loved – the ones he couldn’t save. Yulara wants Arlo gone\, or worse\, but every insult and humiliation pushes him to confront what really happened all those years ago. The truth will shock you\, surprise you\, and break your heart. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early praise for Tell Me Something True \n \n ‘My book of the year. This compelling\, intriguing and entertaining masterpiece examines the conscience of a whole town and should win every award going. Genius’ LIZ NUGENT ‘Emotional\, startling and beautifully crafted; it brings small town Australia into your living room’ VAL MC DERMID ‘Most writers would be proud to produce\, in their entire career\, a book half as good as Tell Me Something True. No one can touch him when it comes to infusing crime with character and heart’ LINWOOD BARCLAY \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Michael Robotham | Photo Tony Mott\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham Before becoming a novelist\, Michael Robotham was a feature writer and investigative reporter working in Britain\, Australia and America\, and with clinical and forensic psychologists as they helped police investigate complex\, psychologically driven crimes. 2024 marked the 20-year anniversary of the  publication of his debut thriller\, The Suspect\, which introduced clinical psychologist Joe O’Loughlin\, sold more than a million copies around the world and is now a major TV series starring Aidan Turner on ABC TV. Michael’s standalone thriller The Secrets She Keeps was adapted for TV by Network 10 and the BBC . Michael is the only Australian to twice win the UK’s prestigious Gold Dagger Award for best crime novel\, for Life or Death and Good Girl\, Bad Girl as well as the Ian Fleming Steel Dagger Award for When She Was Good. Lying Beside You was shortlisted for the Australian Crime Writers Association’s Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction 2023.  Storm Child\, the fourth novel in his globally bestselling Cyrus Haven and Evie Cormac series\, was a No. 1 national bestseller in Australia. The White Crow\, the second book in his Philomena McCarthy series\, following on from the internationally bestselling When You Are Mine was shortlisted for the 2025 Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction. Arlo’s story\, at the centre of Michael Robotham’s 20th novel\, Tell Me Something True\, has held a special place in his heart since he first dreamt of becoming a writer. Four decades later\, he’s ready to share it with readers for the first time. Michael lives in Sydney. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/royal-australian-navy-125th-anniversary-concert/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Fundraiser,Important Dates,Live Music ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/sq-promo-events-cerberus.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261031T140000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261031T150000 DTSTAMP:20260803T010932Z CREATED:20260729T002352Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260803T010932Z UID:74805-1793455200-1793458800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:An Intimate Hour of Magic DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 1\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tell Me Something True \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n MICHAEL IS COMING HOME: This is his 20th novel\, but the 1st to be set in Australia. This is a once-in-a-lifetime publishing event for a book destined to enter the Australian canon as a classic. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The astonishing\, emotional epic from Michael Robotham: a mystery\, a coming-of-age tale and a love story wrapped into one\, set against the simmering tensions of a small Australian town. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I look along the road and notice how many people are standing outside their houses or watching from doorways and windows. Staring. Studying. ‘Do you think this town will ever forgive me?’ I ask. ‘Not in a million years.’ \n \n Small towns are quick to anger and slow to forgive\, but Arlo Hackett doesn’t expect mercy when he emerges from a twelve-year prison sentence and makes his way back to Yulara\, a waypoint on Australia’s Great Southern Road. The last time Arlo was home\, his brother Luke was charged with a terrible crime and Arlo was found guilty by association. His return to the goldrush town is like cracking open a time capsule full of hatred and violence\, along with memories of the people he loved – the ones he couldn’t save. Yulara wants Arlo gone\, or worse\, but every insult and humiliation pushes him to confront what really happened all those years ago. The truth will shock you\, surprise you\, and break your heart. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early praise for Tell Me Something True \n \n ‘My book of the year. This compelling\, intriguing and entertaining masterpiece examines the conscience of a whole town and should win every award going. Genius’ LIZ NUGENT ‘Emotional\, startling and beautifully crafted; it brings small town Australia into your living room’ VAL MC DERMID ‘Most writers would be proud to produce\, in their entire career\, a book half as good as Tell Me Something True. No one can touch him when it comes to infusing crime with character and heart’ LINWOOD BARCLAY \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Michael Robotham | Photo Tony Mott\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham Before becoming a novelist\, Michael Robotham was a feature writer and investigative reporter working in Britain\, Australia and America\, and with clinical and forensic psychologists as they helped police investigate complex\, psychologically driven crimes. 2024 marked the 20-year anniversary of the  publication of his debut thriller\, The Suspect\, which introduced clinical psychologist Joe O’Loughlin\, sold more than a million copies around the world and is now a major TV series starring Aidan Turner on ABC TV. Michael’s standalone thriller The Secrets She Keeps was adapted for TV by Network 10 and the BBC . Michael is the only Australian to twice win the UK’s prestigious Gold Dagger Award for best crime novel\, for Life or Death and Good Girl\, Bad Girl as well as the Ian Fleming Steel Dagger Award for When She Was Good. Lying Beside You was shortlisted for the Australian Crime Writers Association’s Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction 2023.  Storm Child\, the fourth novel in his globally bestselling Cyrus Haven and Evie Cormac series\, was a No. 1 national bestseller in Australia. The White Crow\, the second book in his Philomena McCarthy series\, following on from the internationally bestselling When You Are Mine was shortlisted for the 2025 Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction. Arlo’s story\, at the centre of Michael Robotham’s 20th novel\, Tell Me Something True\, has held a special place in his heart since he first dreamt of becoming a writer. Four decades later\, he’s ready to share it with readers for the first time. Michael lives in Sydney. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/an-intimate-hour-of-magic/ LOCATION:BMI – Hooper Room CATEGORIES:Theatre Production ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/sq-promo-events-barry-govan.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261031T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261031T200000 DTSTAMP:20260803T011251Z CREATED:20260729T023609Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260803T011251Z UID:74835-1793473200-1793476800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:An Intimate Hour of Magic DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 1\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tell Me Something True \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n MICHAEL IS COMING HOME: This is his 20th novel\, but the 1st to be set in Australia. This is a once-in-a-lifetime publishing event for a book destined to enter the Australian canon as a classic. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The astonishing\, emotional epic from Michael Robotham: a mystery\, a coming-of-age tale and a love story wrapped into one\, set against the simmering tensions of a small Australian town. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I look along the road and notice how many people are standing outside their houses or watching from doorways and windows. Staring. Studying. ‘Do you think this town will ever forgive me?’ I ask. ‘Not in a million years.’ \n \n Small towns are quick to anger and slow to forgive\, but Arlo Hackett doesn’t expect mercy when he emerges from a twelve-year prison sentence and makes his way back to Yulara\, a waypoint on Australia’s Great Southern Road. The last time Arlo was home\, his brother Luke was charged with a terrible crime and Arlo was found guilty by association. His return to the goldrush town is like cracking open a time capsule full of hatred and violence\, along with memories of the people he loved – the ones he couldn’t save. Yulara wants Arlo gone\, or worse\, but every insult and humiliation pushes him to confront what really happened all those years ago. The truth will shock you\, surprise you\, and break your heart. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early praise for Tell Me Something True \n \n ‘My book of the year. This compelling\, intriguing and entertaining masterpiece examines the conscience of a whole town and should win every award going. Genius’ LIZ NUGENT ‘Emotional\, startling and beautifully crafted; it brings small town Australia into your living room’ VAL MC DERMID ‘Most writers would be proud to produce\, in their entire career\, a book half as good as Tell Me Something True. No one can touch him when it comes to infusing crime with character and heart’ LINWOOD BARCLAY \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Michael Robotham | Photo Tony Mott\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham Before becoming a novelist\, Michael Robotham was a feature writer and investigative reporter working in Britain\, Australia and America\, and with clinical and forensic psychologists as they helped police investigate complex\, psychologically driven crimes. 2024 marked the 20-year anniversary of the  publication of his debut thriller\, The Suspect\, which introduced clinical psychologist Joe O’Loughlin\, sold more than a million copies around the world and is now a major TV series starring Aidan Turner on ABC TV. Michael’s standalone thriller The Secrets She Keeps was adapted for TV by Network 10 and the BBC . Michael is the only Australian to twice win the UK’s prestigious Gold Dagger Award for best crime novel\, for Life or Death and Good Girl\, Bad Girl as well as the Ian Fleming Steel Dagger Award for When She Was Good. Lying Beside You was shortlisted for the Australian Crime Writers Association’s Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction 2023.  Storm Child\, the fourth novel in his globally bestselling Cyrus Haven and Evie Cormac series\, was a No. 1 national bestseller in Australia. The White Crow\, the second book in his Philomena McCarthy series\, following on from the internationally bestselling When You Are Mine was shortlisted for the 2025 Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction. Arlo’s story\, at the centre of Michael Robotham’s 20th novel\, Tell Me Something True\, has held a special place in his heart since he first dreamt of becoming a writer. Four decades later\, he’s ready to share it with readers for the first time. Michael lives in Sydney. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/an-intimate-hour-of-magic-7pm/ LOCATION:BMI – Hooper Room CATEGORIES:Theatre Production ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/sq-promo-events-barry-govan.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261125T173000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261125T183000 DTSTAMP:20260625T023611Z CREATED:20260623T232758Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260625T023611Z UID:73816-1795627800-1795631400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Twilight Talks: Season 2\, Understanding the Language of your Body DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 1\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tell Me Something True \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n MICHAEL IS COMING HOME: This is his 20th novel\, but the 1st to be set in Australia. This is a once-in-a-lifetime publishing event for a book destined to enter the Australian canon as a classic. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The astonishing\, emotional epic from Michael Robotham: a mystery\, a coming-of-age tale and a love story wrapped into one\, set against the simmering tensions of a small Australian town. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I look along the road and notice how many people are standing outside their houses or watching from doorways and windows. Staring. Studying. ‘Do you think this town will ever forgive me?’ I ask. ‘Not in a million years.’ \n \n Small towns are quick to anger and slow to forgive\, but Arlo Hackett doesn’t expect mercy when he emerges from a twelve-year prison sentence and makes his way back to Yulara\, a waypoint on Australia’s Great Southern Road. The last time Arlo was home\, his brother Luke was charged with a terrible crime and Arlo was found guilty by association. His return to the goldrush town is like cracking open a time capsule full of hatred and violence\, along with memories of the people he loved – the ones he couldn’t save. Yulara wants Arlo gone\, or worse\, but every insult and humiliation pushes him to confront what really happened all those years ago. The truth will shock you\, surprise you\, and break your heart. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early praise for Tell Me Something True \n \n ‘My book of the year. This compelling\, intriguing and entertaining masterpiece examines the conscience of a whole town and should win every award going. Genius’ LIZ NUGENT ‘Emotional\, startling and beautifully crafted; it brings small town Australia into your living room’ VAL MC DERMID ‘Most writers would be proud to produce\, in their entire career\, a book half as good as Tell Me Something True. No one can touch him when it comes to infusing crime with character and heart’ LINWOOD BARCLAY \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Michael Robotham | Photo Tony Mott\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham Before becoming a novelist\, Michael Robotham was a feature writer and investigative reporter working in Britain\, Australia and America\, and with clinical and forensic psychologists as they helped police investigate complex\, psychologically driven crimes. 2024 marked the 20-year anniversary of the  publication of his debut thriller\, The Suspect\, which introduced clinical psychologist Joe O’Loughlin\, sold more than a million copies around the world and is now a major TV series starring Aidan Turner on ABC TV. Michael’s standalone thriller The Secrets She Keeps was adapted for TV by Network 10 and the BBC . Michael is the only Australian to twice win the UK’s prestigious Gold Dagger Award for best crime novel\, for Life or Death and Good Girl\, Bad Girl as well as the Ian Fleming Steel Dagger Award for When She Was Good. Lying Beside You was shortlisted for the Australian Crime Writers Association’s Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction 2023.  Storm Child\, the fourth novel in his globally bestselling Cyrus Haven and Evie Cormac series\, was a No. 1 national bestseller in Australia. The White Crow\, the second book in his Philomena McCarthy series\, following on from the internationally bestselling When You Are Mine was shortlisted for the 2025 Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction. Arlo’s story\, at the centre of Michael Robotham’s 20th novel\, Tell Me Something True\, has held a special place in his heart since he first dreamt of becoming a writer. Four decades later\, he’s ready to share it with readers for the first time. Michael lives in Sydney. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/twilight-talks-season-2-the-language-of-your-body/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Twilight Talks ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/square-promo-tt-language-of-your-body.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261202T173000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261202T183000 DTSTAMP:20260709T034048Z CREATED:20260625T024453Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260709T034048Z UID:73897-1796232600-1796236200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Twilight Talks: Season 2\, 100 Year History of Legacy\, Ballarat DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 1\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tell Me Something True \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n MICHAEL IS COMING HOME: This is his 20th novel\, but the 1st to be set in Australia. This is a once-in-a-lifetime publishing event for a book destined to enter the Australian canon as a classic. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The astonishing\, emotional epic from Michael Robotham: a mystery\, a coming-of-age tale and a love story wrapped into one\, set against the simmering tensions of a small Australian town. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I look along the road and notice how many people are standing outside their houses or watching from doorways and windows. Staring. Studying. ‘Do you think this town will ever forgive me?’ I ask. ‘Not in a million years.’ \n \n Small towns are quick to anger and slow to forgive\, but Arlo Hackett doesn’t expect mercy when he emerges from a twelve-year prison sentence and makes his way back to Yulara\, a waypoint on Australia’s Great Southern Road. The last time Arlo was home\, his brother Luke was charged with a terrible crime and Arlo was found guilty by association. His return to the goldrush town is like cracking open a time capsule full of hatred and violence\, along with memories of the people he loved – the ones he couldn’t save. Yulara wants Arlo gone\, or worse\, but every insult and humiliation pushes him to confront what really happened all those years ago. The truth will shock you\, surprise you\, and break your heart. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early praise for Tell Me Something True \n \n ‘My book of the year. This compelling\, intriguing and entertaining masterpiece examines the conscience of a whole town and should win every award going. Genius’ LIZ NUGENT ‘Emotional\, startling and beautifully crafted; it brings small town Australia into your living room’ VAL MC DERMID ‘Most writers would be proud to produce\, in their entire career\, a book half as good as Tell Me Something True. No one can touch him when it comes to infusing crime with character and heart’ LINWOOD BARCLAY \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Michael Robotham | Photo Tony Mott\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham Before becoming a novelist\, Michael Robotham was a feature writer and investigative reporter working in Britain\, Australia and America\, and with clinical and forensic psychologists as they helped police investigate complex\, psychologically driven crimes. 2024 marked the 20-year anniversary of the  publication of his debut thriller\, The Suspect\, which introduced clinical psychologist Joe O’Loughlin\, sold more than a million copies around the world and is now a major TV series starring Aidan Turner on ABC TV. Michael’s standalone thriller The Secrets She Keeps was adapted for TV by Network 10 and the BBC . Michael is the only Australian to twice win the UK’s prestigious Gold Dagger Award for best crime novel\, for Life or Death and Good Girl\, Bad Girl as well as the Ian Fleming Steel Dagger Award for When She Was Good. Lying Beside You was shortlisted for the Australian Crime Writers Association’s Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction 2023.  Storm Child\, the fourth novel in his globally bestselling Cyrus Haven and Evie Cormac series\, was a No. 1 national bestseller in Australia. The White Crow\, the second book in his Philomena McCarthy series\, following on from the internationally bestselling When You Are Mine was shortlisted for the 2025 Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction. Arlo’s story\, at the centre of Michael Robotham’s 20th novel\, Tell Me Something True\, has held a special place in his heart since he first dreamt of becoming a writer. Four decades later\, he’s ready to share it with readers for the first time. Michael lives in Sydney. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/twilight-talks-season-2-100-year-history-of-legacy-ballarat/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Twilight Talks ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/square-promo-tt-legacy.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261210T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261210T210000 DTSTAMP:20260414T073342Z CREATED:20260129T055545Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260414T073342Z UID:70454-1796931000-1796936400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Ballarat Film Society | Smiley Gets a Gun DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 1\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tell Me Something True \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n MICHAEL IS COMING HOME: This is his 20th novel\, but the 1st to be set in Australia. This is a once-in-a-lifetime publishing event for a book destined to enter the Australian canon as a classic. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The astonishing\, emotional epic from Michael Robotham: a mystery\, a coming-of-age tale and a love story wrapped into one\, set against the simmering tensions of a small Australian town. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I look along the road and notice how many people are standing outside their houses or watching from doorways and windows. Staring. Studying. ‘Do you think this town will ever forgive me?’ I ask. ‘Not in a million years.’ \n \n Small towns are quick to anger and slow to forgive\, but Arlo Hackett doesn’t expect mercy when he emerges from a twelve-year prison sentence and makes his way back to Yulara\, a waypoint on Australia’s Great Southern Road. The last time Arlo was home\, his brother Luke was charged with a terrible crime and Arlo was found guilty by association. His return to the goldrush town is like cracking open a time capsule full of hatred and violence\, along with memories of the people he loved – the ones he couldn’t save. Yulara wants Arlo gone\, or worse\, but every insult and humiliation pushes him to confront what really happened all those years ago. The truth will shock you\, surprise you\, and break your heart. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early praise for Tell Me Something True \n \n ‘My book of the year. This compelling\, intriguing and entertaining masterpiece examines the conscience of a whole town and should win every award going. Genius’ LIZ NUGENT ‘Emotional\, startling and beautifully crafted; it brings small town Australia into your living room’ VAL MC DERMID ‘Most writers would be proud to produce\, in their entire career\, a book half as good as Tell Me Something True. No one can touch him when it comes to infusing crime with character and heart’ LINWOOD BARCLAY \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Michael Robotham | Photo Tony Mott\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham Before becoming a novelist\, Michael Robotham was a feature writer and investigative reporter working in Britain\, Australia and America\, and with clinical and forensic psychologists as they helped police investigate complex\, psychologically driven crimes. 2024 marked the 20-year anniversary of the  publication of his debut thriller\, The Suspect\, which introduced clinical psychologist Joe O’Loughlin\, sold more than a million copies around the world and is now a major TV series starring Aidan Turner on ABC TV. Michael’s standalone thriller The Secrets She Keeps was adapted for TV by Network 10 and the BBC . Michael is the only Australian to twice win the UK’s prestigious Gold Dagger Award for best crime novel\, for Life or Death and Good Girl\, Bad Girl as well as the Ian Fleming Steel Dagger Award for When She Was Good. Lying Beside You was shortlisted for the Australian Crime Writers Association’s Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction 2023.  Storm Child\, the fourth novel in his globally bestselling Cyrus Haven and Evie Cormac series\, was a No. 1 national bestseller in Australia. The White Crow\, the second book in his Philomena McCarthy series\, following on from the internationally bestselling When You Are Mine was shortlisted for the 2025 Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction. Arlo’s story\, at the centre of Michael Robotham’s 20th novel\, Tell Me Something True\, has held a special place in his heart since he first dreamt of becoming a writer. Four decades later\, he’s ready to share it with readers for the first time. Michael lives in Sydney. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/ballarat-film-society-smiley-gets-a-gun/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Ballarat Film Society,Film ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/smiley-sq-promo.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261212T100000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261213T140000 DTSTAMP:20260619T051722Z CREATED:20260619T034945Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260619T051722Z UID:73676-1797069600-1797170400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Book Sale | Reward yourself with some excellent Christmas reading DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 1\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tell Me Something True \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n MICHAEL IS COMING HOME: This is his 20th novel\, but the 1st to be set in Australia. This is a once-in-a-lifetime publishing event for a book destined to enter the Australian canon as a classic. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The astonishing\, emotional epic from Michael Robotham: a mystery\, a coming-of-age tale and a love story wrapped into one\, set against the simmering tensions of a small Australian town. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I look along the road and notice how many people are standing outside their houses or watching from doorways and windows. Staring. Studying. ‘Do you think this town will ever forgive me?’ I ask. ‘Not in a million years.’ \n \n Small towns are quick to anger and slow to forgive\, but Arlo Hackett doesn’t expect mercy when he emerges from a twelve-year prison sentence and makes his way back to Yulara\, a waypoint on Australia’s Great Southern Road. The last time Arlo was home\, his brother Luke was charged with a terrible crime and Arlo was found guilty by association. His return to the goldrush town is like cracking open a time capsule full of hatred and violence\, along with memories of the people he loved – the ones he couldn’t save. Yulara wants Arlo gone\, or worse\, but every insult and humiliation pushes him to confront what really happened all those years ago. The truth will shock you\, surprise you\, and break your heart. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early praise for Tell Me Something True \n \n ‘My book of the year. This compelling\, intriguing and entertaining masterpiece examines the conscience of a whole town and should win every award going. Genius’ LIZ NUGENT ‘Emotional\, startling and beautifully crafted; it brings small town Australia into your living room’ VAL MC DERMID ‘Most writers would be proud to produce\, in their entire career\, a book half as good as Tell Me Something True. No one can touch him when it comes to infusing crime with character and heart’ LINWOOD BARCLAY \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Michael Robotham | Photo Tony Mott\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham Before becoming a novelist\, Michael Robotham was a feature writer and investigative reporter working in Britain\, Australia and America\, and with clinical and forensic psychologists as they helped police investigate complex\, psychologically driven crimes. 2024 marked the 20-year anniversary of the  publication of his debut thriller\, The Suspect\, which introduced clinical psychologist Joe O’Loughlin\, sold more than a million copies around the world and is now a major TV series starring Aidan Turner on ABC TV. Michael’s standalone thriller The Secrets She Keeps was adapted for TV by Network 10 and the BBC . Michael is the only Australian to twice win the UK’s prestigious Gold Dagger Award for best crime novel\, for Life or Death and Good Girl\, Bad Girl as well as the Ian Fleming Steel Dagger Award for When She Was Good. Lying Beside You was shortlisted for the Australian Crime Writers Association’s Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction 2023.  Storm Child\, the fourth novel in his globally bestselling Cyrus Haven and Evie Cormac series\, was a No. 1 national bestseller in Australia. The White Crow\, the second book in his Philomena McCarthy series\, following on from the internationally bestselling When You Are Mine was shortlisted for the 2025 Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction. Arlo’s story\, at the centre of Michael Robotham’s 20th novel\, Tell Me Something True\, has held a special place in his heart since he first dreamt of becoming a writer. Four decades later\, he’s ready to share it with readers for the first time. Michael lives in Sydney. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/book-sale-reward-yourself-with-some-excellent-christmas-reading/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Fundraiser,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/square-promo-christmas-26.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20270501T100000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20270502T140000 DTSTAMP:20260619T051712Z CREATED:20260619T051024Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260619T051712Z UID:73683-1809165600-1809266400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Book Sale | Reward yourself with some excellent Autumn reading DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 1\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$11.00 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tell Me Something True \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n MICHAEL IS COMING HOME: This is his 20th novel\, but the 1st to be set in Australia. This is a once-in-a-lifetime publishing event for a book destined to enter the Australian canon as a classic. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The astonishing\, emotional epic from Michael Robotham: a mystery\, a coming-of-age tale and a love story wrapped into one\, set against the simmering tensions of a small Australian town. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I look along the road and notice how many people are standing outside their houses or watching from doorways and windows. Staring. Studying. ‘Do you think this town will ever forgive me?’ I ask. ‘Not in a million years.’ \n \n Small towns are quick to anger and slow to forgive\, but Arlo Hackett doesn’t expect mercy when he emerges from a twelve-year prison sentence and makes his way back to Yulara\, a waypoint on Australia’s Great Southern Road. The last time Arlo was home\, his brother Luke was charged with a terrible crime and Arlo was found guilty by association. His return to the goldrush town is like cracking open a time capsule full of hatred and violence\, along with memories of the people he loved – the ones he couldn’t save. Yulara wants Arlo gone\, or worse\, but every insult and humiliation pushes him to confront what really happened all those years ago. The truth will shock you\, surprise you\, and break your heart. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early praise for Tell Me Something True \n \n ‘My book of the year. This compelling\, intriguing and entertaining masterpiece examines the conscience of a whole town and should win every award going. Genius’ LIZ NUGENT ‘Emotional\, startling and beautifully crafted; it brings small town Australia into your living room’ VAL MC DERMID ‘Most writers would be proud to produce\, in their entire career\, a book half as good as Tell Me Something True. No one can touch him when it comes to infusing crime with character and heart’ LINWOOD BARCLAY \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n \n Michael Robotham | Photo Tony Mott\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Robotham Before becoming a novelist\, Michael Robotham was a feature writer and investigative reporter working in Britain\, Australia and America\, and with clinical and forensic psychologists as they helped police investigate complex\, psychologically driven crimes. 2024 marked the 20-year anniversary of the  publication of his debut thriller\, The Suspect\, which introduced clinical psychologist Joe O’Loughlin\, sold more than a million copies around the world and is now a major TV series starring Aidan Turner on ABC TV. Michael’s standalone thriller The Secrets She Keeps was adapted for TV by Network 10 and the BBC . Michael is the only Australian to twice win the UK’s prestigious Gold Dagger Award for best crime novel\, for Life or Death and Good Girl\, Bad Girl as well as the Ian Fleming Steel Dagger Award for When She Was Good. Lying Beside You was shortlisted for the Australian Crime Writers Association’s Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction 2023.  Storm Child\, the fourth novel in his globally bestselling Cyrus Haven and Evie Cormac series\, was a No. 1 national bestseller in Australia. The White Crow\, the second book in his Philomena McCarthy series\, following on from the internationally bestselling When You Are Mine was shortlisted for the 2025 Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction. Arlo’s story\, at the centre of Michael Robotham’s 20th novel\, Tell Me Something True\, has held a special place in his heart since he first dreamt of becoming a writer. Four decades later\, he’s ready to share it with readers for the first time. Michael lives in Sydney. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $11 per person plus booking fees\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/book-sale-reward-yourself-with-some-excellent-autumn-reading/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Fundraiser,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/square-promo-autumn-26.jpg END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR