BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute - ECPv6.15.20//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-WR-CALNAME:Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:Australia/Melbourne BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+1100 TZOFFSETTO:+1000 TZNAME:AEST DTSTART:20210403T160000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+1000 TZOFFSETTO:+1100 TZNAME:AEDT DTSTART:20211002T160000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+1100 TZOFFSETTO:+1000 TZNAME:AEST DTSTART:20220402T160000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+1000 TZOFFSETTO:+1100 TZNAME:AEDT DTSTART:20221001T160000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+1100 TZOFFSETTO:+1000 TZNAME:AEST DTSTART:20230401T160000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+1000 TZOFFSETTO:+1100 TZNAME:AEDT DTSTART:20230930T160000 END:DAYLIGHT END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20220929T130000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20220929T150000 DTSTAMP:20260506T200045 CREATED:20220930T060021Z LAST-MODIFIED:20221124T002915Z UID:22908-1664456400-1664463600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Current Affairs Dialogue | Discussion Group | NOW POSTPONED DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Jane Cafarella \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n February 18\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$10 \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 \n \n \n \n Cleaved \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A story of loss\, legs and finding family \n \n \n \n \n \n \n It’s important that genuine stories such as this be published to show the extra-ordinary\, day-to-day courage of so-called ‘ordinary’ people - Highly recommended - Hazel Edwards OAM \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Former journalist for The Age and critically acclaimed Australian playwright and cartoonist\,\nJane Cafarella has written her memoir with great compassion and good humour. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cleaved is a story of coping with difference; of identity\, family\, and belonging. It is Jane’s story of growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema\, and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. It is honest\, moving and at times\, raw but at its core it is a beautifully crafted story of survival in a world of challenges and hard knocks. Jane Cafarella is\, and always has been\, a wonderful storyteller. Cleaved is her story. \n \n \n Cleaved | Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n Jane Cafarella is an Australian playwright and former journalist and cartoonist whose work has been widely published in Australia and overseas and whose plays have been performed nationally and internationally. Her cartoon archive is held at the State Library of Victoria. During her 10 years at Melbourne’s The Age newspaper\, Jane wrote and edited the popular Accent section\, which focused on women’s issues\, and for many years wrote the beloved columns A New Life Journal and Family Postcard. What she didn’t write about was growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema – and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. Written with compassion and humour\, Cleaved is an illuminating and moving story of coping with difference – and of two sisters\, foot soldiers in their parents marital war\, who lost and then found each other. Jane will be in conversation with Alisoun Downing. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lymphedema \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The World Health Organization estimates that up to 250 million people worldwide live with the incurable\, disfiguring\, progressive\, and little-known disease called lymphedema. In Jane Cafarella’s new memoir\, Cleaved\, the veil of secrecy surrounding lymphedema is stripped away as we meet a young girl in Australia living with an undiagnosed deformity. Ms. Cafarella weaves a stirring and universal coming-of-age story where the audience gets a rare glimpse of the impact of living with a disability while traversing the many roads on life’s journey. Lymphatic Education and Research Network (NYC) CEO\, William Repicci. I just finished it. I’m in bits. Such a beautiful story. Forgiveness\, the connections\, devoid of sentimentality\, yet the humanity – the flawed humans – have touched me. Thank you for a great read!  Susie Penrice Tyrie\, Singapore. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Enquiries:  Any event specific enquires should be direct to library@ballaratmi.org.au \n \n \n \n \n \n $10 per person plus booking fee & gst 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 Collins Booksellers\, Ballart on Lydiard will be handling book sales for the event. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Not become a member\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n More Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n The Marriage Trap Victoria Purman Don’t miss Victoira who will... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarta Writers – write it your way\n Stella Day Out\, Ballarat 5 November 2025 | As events... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – May 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Brian Chapman & Friends\, A Trio of Stunning Piano Quartets\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/current-affairs-dialogue/ LOCATION:Soldiers Hill CBD | Pop-up\, 512 Macarthur Street\, Soldiers Hill\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Culture ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Current-Affairs-logo-cropped.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20221116T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20221116T193000 DTSTAMP:20260506T200045 CREATED:20221003T041413Z LAST-MODIFIED:20221111T003902Z UID:22960-1668621600-1668627000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In conversation with Fleur McDonald DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Jane Cafarella \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n February 18\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$10 \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 \n \n \n \n Cleaved \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A story of loss\, legs and finding family \n \n \n \n \n \n \n It’s important that genuine stories such as this be published to show the extra-ordinary\, day-to-day courage of so-called ‘ordinary’ people - Highly recommended - Hazel Edwards OAM \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Former journalist for The Age and critically acclaimed Australian playwright and cartoonist\,\nJane Cafarella has written her memoir with great compassion and good humour. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cleaved is a story of coping with difference; of identity\, family\, and belonging. It is Jane’s story of growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema\, and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. It is honest\, moving and at times\, raw but at its core it is a beautifully crafted story of survival in a world of challenges and hard knocks. Jane Cafarella is\, and always has been\, a wonderful storyteller. Cleaved is her story. \n \n \n Cleaved | Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n Jane Cafarella is an Australian playwright and former journalist and cartoonist whose work has been widely published in Australia and overseas and whose plays have been performed nationally and internationally. Her cartoon archive is held at the State Library of Victoria. During her 10 years at Melbourne’s The Age newspaper\, Jane wrote and edited the popular Accent section\, which focused on women’s issues\, and for many years wrote the beloved columns A New Life Journal and Family Postcard. What she didn’t write about was growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema – and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. Written with compassion and humour\, Cleaved is an illuminating and moving story of coping with difference – and of two sisters\, foot soldiers in their parents marital war\, who lost and then found each other. Jane will be in conversation with Alisoun Downing. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lymphedema \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The World Health Organization estimates that up to 250 million people worldwide live with the incurable\, disfiguring\, progressive\, and little-known disease called lymphedema. In Jane Cafarella’s new memoir\, Cleaved\, the veil of secrecy surrounding lymphedema is stripped away as we meet a young girl in Australia living with an undiagnosed deformity. Ms. Cafarella weaves a stirring and universal coming-of-age story where the audience gets a rare glimpse of the impact of living with a disability while traversing the many roads on life’s journey. Lymphatic Education and Research Network (NYC) CEO\, William Repicci. I just finished it. I’m in bits. Such a beautiful story. Forgiveness\, the connections\, devoid of sentimentality\, yet the humanity – the flawed humans – have touched me. Thank you for a great read!  Susie Penrice Tyrie\, Singapore. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Enquiries:  Any event specific enquires should be direct to library@ballaratmi.org.au \n \n \n \n \n \n $10 per person plus booking fee & gst 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 Collins Booksellers\, Ballart on Lydiard will be handling book sales for the event. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Not become a member\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n More Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n The Marriage Trap Victoria Purman Don’t miss Victoira who will... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarta Writers – write it your way\n Stella Day Out\, Ballarat 5 November 2025 | As events... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – May 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Brian Chapman & Friends\, A Trio of Stunning Piano Quartets\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/in-conversation-with-fleur-mcdonald/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Culture,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/fleur-mcdonald.jpeg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20221112T200000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20221112T213000 DTSTAMP:20260506T200045 CREATED:20221017T020334Z LAST-MODIFIED:20221017T020334Z UID:23531-1668283200-1668288600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Kings of the Blues DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Jane Cafarella \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n February 18\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$10 \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 \n \n \n \n Cleaved \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A story of loss\, legs and finding family \n \n \n \n \n \n \n It’s important that genuine stories such as this be published to show the extra-ordinary\, day-to-day courage of so-called ‘ordinary’ people - Highly recommended - Hazel Edwards OAM \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Former journalist for The Age and critically acclaimed Australian playwright and cartoonist\,\nJane Cafarella has written her memoir with great compassion and good humour. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cleaved is a story of coping with difference; of identity\, family\, and belonging. It is Jane’s story of growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema\, and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. It is honest\, moving and at times\, raw but at its core it is a beautifully crafted story of survival in a world of challenges and hard knocks. Jane Cafarella is\, and always has been\, a wonderful storyteller. Cleaved is her story. \n \n \n Cleaved | Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n Jane Cafarella is an Australian playwright and former journalist and cartoonist whose work has been widely published in Australia and overseas and whose plays have been performed nationally and internationally. Her cartoon archive is held at the State Library of Victoria. During her 10 years at Melbourne’s The Age newspaper\, Jane wrote and edited the popular Accent section\, which focused on women’s issues\, and for many years wrote the beloved columns A New Life Journal and Family Postcard. What she didn’t write about was growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema – and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. Written with compassion and humour\, Cleaved is an illuminating and moving story of coping with difference – and of two sisters\, foot soldiers in their parents marital war\, who lost and then found each other. Jane will be in conversation with Alisoun Downing. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lymphedema \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The World Health Organization estimates that up to 250 million people worldwide live with the incurable\, disfiguring\, progressive\, and little-known disease called lymphedema. In Jane Cafarella’s new memoir\, Cleaved\, the veil of secrecy surrounding lymphedema is stripped away as we meet a young girl in Australia living with an undiagnosed deformity. Ms. Cafarella weaves a stirring and universal coming-of-age story where the audience gets a rare glimpse of the impact of living with a disability while traversing the many roads on life’s journey. Lymphatic Education and Research Network (NYC) CEO\, William Repicci. I just finished it. I’m in bits. Such a beautiful story. Forgiveness\, the connections\, devoid of sentimentality\, yet the humanity – the flawed humans – have touched me. Thank you for a great read!  Susie Penrice Tyrie\, Singapore. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Enquiries:  Any event specific enquires should be direct to library@ballaratmi.org.au \n \n \n \n \n \n $10 per person plus booking fee & gst 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 Collins Booksellers\, Ballart on Lydiard will be handling book sales for the event. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Not become a member\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n More Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n The Marriage Trap Victoria Purman Don’t miss Victoira who will... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarta Writers – write it your way\n Stella Day Out\, Ballarat 5 November 2025 | As events... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – May 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Brian Chapman & Friends\, A Trio of Stunning Piano Quartets\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/kings-of-the-blues/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Externally Produced Event,Live Music ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/5333-Kings-Blues-Banner.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Leica Show":MAILTO:lorena@leicashow.com.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20221111T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20221111T210000 DTSTAMP:20260506T200045 CREATED:20221017T020814Z LAST-MODIFIED:20221017T020814Z UID:23536-1668195000-1668200400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Eric Bogle Live DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Jane Cafarella \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n February 18\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$10 \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 \n \n \n \n Cleaved \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A story of loss\, legs and finding family \n \n \n \n \n \n \n It’s important that genuine stories such as this be published to show the extra-ordinary\, day-to-day courage of so-called ‘ordinary’ people - Highly recommended - Hazel Edwards OAM \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Former journalist for The Age and critically acclaimed Australian playwright and cartoonist\,\nJane Cafarella has written her memoir with great compassion and good humour. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cleaved is a story of coping with difference; of identity\, family\, and belonging. It is Jane’s story of growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema\, and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. It is honest\, moving and at times\, raw but at its core it is a beautifully crafted story of survival in a world of challenges and hard knocks. Jane Cafarella is\, and always has been\, a wonderful storyteller. Cleaved is her story. \n \n \n Cleaved | Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n Jane Cafarella is an Australian playwright and former journalist and cartoonist whose work has been widely published in Australia and overseas and whose plays have been performed nationally and internationally. Her cartoon archive is held at the State Library of Victoria. During her 10 years at Melbourne’s The Age newspaper\, Jane wrote and edited the popular Accent section\, which focused on women’s issues\, and for many years wrote the beloved columns A New Life Journal and Family Postcard. What she didn’t write about was growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema – and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. Written with compassion and humour\, Cleaved is an illuminating and moving story of coping with difference – and of two sisters\, foot soldiers in their parents marital war\, who lost and then found each other. Jane will be in conversation with Alisoun Downing. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lymphedema \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The World Health Organization estimates that up to 250 million people worldwide live with the incurable\, disfiguring\, progressive\, and little-known disease called lymphedema. In Jane Cafarella’s new memoir\, Cleaved\, the veil of secrecy surrounding lymphedema is stripped away as we meet a young girl in Australia living with an undiagnosed deformity. Ms. Cafarella weaves a stirring and universal coming-of-age story where the audience gets a rare glimpse of the impact of living with a disability while traversing the many roads on life’s journey. Lymphatic Education and Research Network (NYC) CEO\, William Repicci. I just finished it. I’m in bits. Such a beautiful story. Forgiveness\, the connections\, devoid of sentimentality\, yet the humanity – the flawed humans – have touched me. Thank you for a great read!  Susie Penrice Tyrie\, Singapore. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Enquiries:  Any event specific enquires should be direct to library@ballaratmi.org.au \n \n \n \n \n \n $10 per person plus booking fee & gst 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 Collins Booksellers\, Ballart on Lydiard will be handling book sales for the event. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Not become a member\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n More Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n The Marriage Trap Victoria Purman Don’t miss Victoira who will... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarta Writers – write it your way\n Stella Day Out\, Ballarat 5 November 2025 | As events... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – May 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Brian Chapman & Friends\, A Trio of Stunning Piano Quartets\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/eric-bogle/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Externally Produced Event,Live Music ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/EHI949825-f2c48c87977b4979b7ff14c93cc4548f.jpeg ORGANIZER;CN="Leica Show":MAILTO:lorena@leicashow.com.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20221108T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20221108T213000 DTSTAMP:20260506T200045 CREATED:20220919T045443Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220919T050039Z UID:22469-1667934000-1667943000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Ballarat Film Society - First Cow DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Jane Cafarella \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n February 18\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$10 \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 \n \n \n \n Cleaved \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A story of loss\, legs and finding family \n \n \n \n \n \n \n It’s important that genuine stories such as this be published to show the extra-ordinary\, day-to-day courage of so-called ‘ordinary’ people - Highly recommended - Hazel Edwards OAM \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Former journalist for The Age and critically acclaimed Australian playwright and cartoonist\,\nJane Cafarella has written her memoir with great compassion and good humour. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cleaved is a story of coping with difference; of identity\, family\, and belonging. It is Jane’s story of growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema\, and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. It is honest\, moving and at times\, raw but at its core it is a beautifully crafted story of survival in a world of challenges and hard knocks. Jane Cafarella is\, and always has been\, a wonderful storyteller. Cleaved is her story. \n \n \n Cleaved | Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n Jane Cafarella is an Australian playwright and former journalist and cartoonist whose work has been widely published in Australia and overseas and whose plays have been performed nationally and internationally. Her cartoon archive is held at the State Library of Victoria. During her 10 years at Melbourne’s The Age newspaper\, Jane wrote and edited the popular Accent section\, which focused on women’s issues\, and for many years wrote the beloved columns A New Life Journal and Family Postcard. What she didn’t write about was growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema – and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. Written with compassion and humour\, Cleaved is an illuminating and moving story of coping with difference – and of two sisters\, foot soldiers in their parents marital war\, who lost and then found each other. Jane will be in conversation with Alisoun Downing. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lymphedema \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The World Health Organization estimates that up to 250 million people worldwide live with the incurable\, disfiguring\, progressive\, and little-known disease called lymphedema. In Jane Cafarella’s new memoir\, Cleaved\, the veil of secrecy surrounding lymphedema is stripped away as we meet a young girl in Australia living with an undiagnosed deformity. Ms. Cafarella weaves a stirring and universal coming-of-age story where the audience gets a rare glimpse of the impact of living with a disability while traversing the many roads on life’s journey. Lymphatic Education and Research Network (NYC) CEO\, William Repicci. I just finished it. I’m in bits. Such a beautiful story. Forgiveness\, the connections\, devoid of sentimentality\, yet the humanity – the flawed humans – have touched me. Thank you for a great read!  Susie Penrice Tyrie\, Singapore. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Enquiries:  Any event specific enquires should be direct to library@ballaratmi.org.au \n \n \n \n \n \n $10 per person plus booking fee & gst 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 Collins Booksellers\, Ballart on Lydiard will be handling book sales for the event. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Not become a member\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n More Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n The Marriage Trap Victoria Purman Don’t miss Victoira who will... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarta Writers – write it your way\n Stella Day Out\, Ballarat 5 November 2025 | As events... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – May 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Brian Chapman & Friends\, A Trio of Stunning Piano Quartets\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/bfs-first-cow/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Film ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/first-cow-image.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20221106T140000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20221106T153000 DTSTAMP:20260506T200045 CREATED:20211008T235012Z LAST-MODIFIED:20221006T010759Z UID:13021-1667743200-1667748600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Salon Sessions: The BMI in partnership with Duo Latte DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Jane Cafarella \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n February 18\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$10 \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 \n \n \n \n Cleaved \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A story of loss\, legs and finding family \n \n \n \n \n \n \n It’s important that genuine stories such as this be published to show the extra-ordinary\, day-to-day courage of so-called ‘ordinary’ people - Highly recommended - Hazel Edwards OAM \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Former journalist for The Age and critically acclaimed Australian playwright and cartoonist\,\nJane Cafarella has written her memoir with great compassion and good humour. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cleaved is a story of coping with difference; of identity\, family\, and belonging. It is Jane’s story of growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema\, and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. It is honest\, moving and at times\, raw but at its core it is a beautifully crafted story of survival in a world of challenges and hard knocks. Jane Cafarella is\, and always has been\, a wonderful storyteller. Cleaved is her story. \n \n \n Cleaved | Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n Jane Cafarella is an Australian playwright and former journalist and cartoonist whose work has been widely published in Australia and overseas and whose plays have been performed nationally and internationally. Her cartoon archive is held at the State Library of Victoria. During her 10 years at Melbourne’s The Age newspaper\, Jane wrote and edited the popular Accent section\, which focused on women’s issues\, and for many years wrote the beloved columns A New Life Journal and Family Postcard. What she didn’t write about was growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema – and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. Written with compassion and humour\, Cleaved is an illuminating and moving story of coping with difference – and of two sisters\, foot soldiers in their parents marital war\, who lost and then found each other. Jane will be in conversation with Alisoun Downing. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lymphedema \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The World Health Organization estimates that up to 250 million people worldwide live with the incurable\, disfiguring\, progressive\, and little-known disease called lymphedema. In Jane Cafarella’s new memoir\, Cleaved\, the veil of secrecy surrounding lymphedema is stripped away as we meet a young girl in Australia living with an undiagnosed deformity. Ms. Cafarella weaves a stirring and universal coming-of-age story where the audience gets a rare glimpse of the impact of living with a disability while traversing the many roads on life’s journey. Lymphatic Education and Research Network (NYC) CEO\, William Repicci. I just finished it. I’m in bits. Such a beautiful story. Forgiveness\, the connections\, devoid of sentimentality\, yet the humanity – the flawed humans – have touched me. Thank you for a great read!  Susie Penrice Tyrie\, Singapore. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Enquiries:  Any event specific enquires should be direct to library@ballaratmi.org.au \n \n \n \n \n \n $10 per person plus booking fee & gst 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 Collins Booksellers\, Ballart on Lydiard will be handling book sales for the event. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Not become a member\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n More Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n The Marriage Trap Victoria Purman Don’t miss Victoira who will... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarta Writers – write it your way\n Stella Day Out\, Ballarat 5 November 2025 | As events... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – May 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Brian Chapman & Friends\, A Trio of Stunning Piano Quartets\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/salon-sessions-the-bmi-in-partnership-with-duo-latte/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Art programs,Classical Music ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/bmi-web-image-duo-latte-v3.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20221103T100000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20221103T130000 DTSTAMP:20260506T200045 CREATED:20220810T054516Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220810T061930Z UID:21376-1667469600-1667480400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Book-making Workshop with Maggie Dannatt | 3 November 22 DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Jane Cafarella \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n February 18\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$10 \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 \n \n \n \n Cleaved \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A story of loss\, legs and finding family \n \n \n \n \n \n \n It’s important that genuine stories such as this be published to show the extra-ordinary\, day-to-day courage of so-called ‘ordinary’ people - Highly recommended - Hazel Edwards OAM \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Former journalist for The Age and critically acclaimed Australian playwright and cartoonist\,\nJane Cafarella has written her memoir with great compassion and good humour. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cleaved is a story of coping with difference; of identity\, family\, and belonging. It is Jane’s story of growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema\, and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. It is honest\, moving and at times\, raw but at its core it is a beautifully crafted story of survival in a world of challenges and hard knocks. Jane Cafarella is\, and always has been\, a wonderful storyteller. Cleaved is her story. \n \n \n Cleaved | Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n Jane Cafarella is an Australian playwright and former journalist and cartoonist whose work has been widely published in Australia and overseas and whose plays have been performed nationally and internationally. Her cartoon archive is held at the State Library of Victoria. During her 10 years at Melbourne’s The Age newspaper\, Jane wrote and edited the popular Accent section\, which focused on women’s issues\, and for many years wrote the beloved columns A New Life Journal and Family Postcard. What she didn’t write about was growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema – and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. Written with compassion and humour\, Cleaved is an illuminating and moving story of coping with difference – and of two sisters\, foot soldiers in their parents marital war\, who lost and then found each other. Jane will be in conversation with Alisoun Downing. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lymphedema \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The World Health Organization estimates that up to 250 million people worldwide live with the incurable\, disfiguring\, progressive\, and little-known disease called lymphedema. In Jane Cafarella’s new memoir\, Cleaved\, the veil of secrecy surrounding lymphedema is stripped away as we meet a young girl in Australia living with an undiagnosed deformity. Ms. Cafarella weaves a stirring and universal coming-of-age story where the audience gets a rare glimpse of the impact of living with a disability while traversing the many roads on life’s journey. Lymphatic Education and Research Network (NYC) CEO\, William Repicci. I just finished it. I’m in bits. Such a beautiful story. Forgiveness\, the connections\, devoid of sentimentality\, yet the humanity – the flawed humans – have touched me. Thank you for a great read!  Susie Penrice Tyrie\, Singapore. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Enquiries:  Any event specific enquires should be direct to library@ballaratmi.org.au \n \n \n \n \n \n $10 per person plus booking fee & gst 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 Collins Booksellers\, Ballart on Lydiard will be handling book sales for the event. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Not become a member\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n More Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n The Marriage Trap Victoria Purman Don’t miss Victoira who will... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarta Writers – write it your way\n Stella Day Out\, Ballarat 5 November 2025 | As events... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – May 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Brian Chapman & Friends\, A Trio of Stunning Piano Quartets\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/book-making-workshop-with-maggie-dannatt-3-november-22/ LOCATION:Soldiers Hill CBD | Pop-up\, 512 Macarthur Street\, Soldiers Hill\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Art programs,BMI Produced Event ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/concertina-books.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20221102T170000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20221102T190000 DTSTAMP:20260506T200045 CREATED:20220712T011044Z LAST-MODIFIED:20221004T211333Z UID:20272-1667408400-1667415600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Twilight Talks 2022 | Season 3 | Now Postponed to February 2023 DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Jane Cafarella \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n February 18\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$10 \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 \n \n \n \n Cleaved \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A story of loss\, legs and finding family \n \n \n \n \n \n \n It’s important that genuine stories such as this be published to show the extra-ordinary\, day-to-day courage of so-called ‘ordinary’ people - Highly recommended - Hazel Edwards OAM \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Former journalist for The Age and critically acclaimed Australian playwright and cartoonist\,\nJane Cafarella has written her memoir with great compassion and good humour. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cleaved is a story of coping with difference; of identity\, family\, and belonging. It is Jane’s story of growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema\, and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. It is honest\, moving and at times\, raw but at its core it is a beautifully crafted story of survival in a world of challenges and hard knocks. Jane Cafarella is\, and always has been\, a wonderful storyteller. Cleaved is her story. \n \n \n Cleaved | Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n Jane Cafarella is an Australian playwright and former journalist and cartoonist whose work has been widely published in Australia and overseas and whose plays have been performed nationally and internationally. Her cartoon archive is held at the State Library of Victoria. During her 10 years at Melbourne’s The Age newspaper\, Jane wrote and edited the popular Accent section\, which focused on women’s issues\, and for many years wrote the beloved columns A New Life Journal and Family Postcard. What she didn’t write about was growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema – and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. Written with compassion and humour\, Cleaved is an illuminating and moving story of coping with difference – and of two sisters\, foot soldiers in their parents marital war\, who lost and then found each other. Jane will be in conversation with Alisoun Downing. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lymphedema \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The World Health Organization estimates that up to 250 million people worldwide live with the incurable\, disfiguring\, progressive\, and little-known disease called lymphedema. In Jane Cafarella’s new memoir\, Cleaved\, the veil of secrecy surrounding lymphedema is stripped away as we meet a young girl in Australia living with an undiagnosed deformity. Ms. Cafarella weaves a stirring and universal coming-of-age story where the audience gets a rare glimpse of the impact of living with a disability while traversing the many roads on life’s journey. Lymphatic Education and Research Network (NYC) CEO\, William Repicci. I just finished it. I’m in bits. Such a beautiful story. Forgiveness\, the connections\, devoid of sentimentality\, yet the humanity – the flawed humans – have touched me. Thank you for a great read!  Susie Penrice Tyrie\, Singapore. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Enquiries:  Any event specific enquires should be direct to library@ballaratmi.org.au \n \n \n \n \n \n $10 per person plus booking fee & gst 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 Collins Booksellers\, Ballart on Lydiard will be handling book sales for the event. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Not become a member\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n More Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n The Marriage Trap Victoria Purman Don’t miss Victoira who will... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarta Writers – write it your way\n Stella Day Out\, Ballarat 5 November 2025 | As events... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – May 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Brian Chapman & Friends\, A Trio of Stunning Piano Quartets\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/twilight-talks-2022-season-3-session-1/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:BMI Produced Event,Culture,Twilight Talks ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/twilight-talks-gold-black-cropped.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20221027T133000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20221027T150000 DTSTAMP:20260506T200045 CREATED:20220930T060021Z LAST-MODIFIED:20221026T040021Z UID:22915-1666877400-1666882800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Current Affairs Dialogue | NOW POSTPONED TO 24 NOVEMBER DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Jane Cafarella \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n February 18\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$10 \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 \n \n \n \n Cleaved \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A story of loss\, legs and finding family \n \n \n \n \n \n \n It’s important that genuine stories such as this be published to show the extra-ordinary\, day-to-day courage of so-called ‘ordinary’ people - Highly recommended - Hazel Edwards OAM \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Former journalist for The Age and critically acclaimed Australian playwright and cartoonist\,\nJane Cafarella has written her memoir with great compassion and good humour. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cleaved is a story of coping with difference; of identity\, family\, and belonging. It is Jane’s story of growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema\, and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. It is honest\, moving and at times\, raw but at its core it is a beautifully crafted story of survival in a world of challenges and hard knocks. Jane Cafarella is\, and always has been\, a wonderful storyteller. Cleaved is her story. \n \n \n Cleaved | Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n Jane Cafarella is an Australian playwright and former journalist and cartoonist whose work has been widely published in Australia and overseas and whose plays have been performed nationally and internationally. Her cartoon archive is held at the State Library of Victoria. During her 10 years at Melbourne’s The Age newspaper\, Jane wrote and edited the popular Accent section\, which focused on women’s issues\, and for many years wrote the beloved columns A New Life Journal and Family Postcard. What she didn’t write about was growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema – and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. Written with compassion and humour\, Cleaved is an illuminating and moving story of coping with difference – and of two sisters\, foot soldiers in their parents marital war\, who lost and then found each other. Jane will be in conversation with Alisoun Downing. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lymphedema \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The World Health Organization estimates that up to 250 million people worldwide live with the incurable\, disfiguring\, progressive\, and little-known disease called lymphedema. In Jane Cafarella’s new memoir\, Cleaved\, the veil of secrecy surrounding lymphedema is stripped away as we meet a young girl in Australia living with an undiagnosed deformity. Ms. Cafarella weaves a stirring and universal coming-of-age story where the audience gets a rare glimpse of the impact of living with a disability while traversing the many roads on life’s journey. Lymphatic Education and Research Network (NYC) CEO\, William Repicci. I just finished it. I’m in bits. Such a beautiful story. Forgiveness\, the connections\, devoid of sentimentality\, yet the humanity – the flawed humans – have touched me. Thank you for a great read!  Susie Penrice Tyrie\, Singapore. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Enquiries:  Any event specific enquires should be direct to library@ballaratmi.org.au \n \n \n \n \n \n $10 per person plus booking fee & gst 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 Collins Booksellers\, Ballart on Lydiard will be handling book sales for the event. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Not become a member\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n More Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n The Marriage Trap Victoria Purman Don’t miss Victoira who will... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarta Writers – write it your way\n Stella Day Out\, Ballarat 5 November 2025 | As events... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – May 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Brian Chapman & Friends\, A Trio of Stunning Piano Quartets\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/current-affairs-dialogue-2022-10-27/ LOCATION:Soldiers Hill CBD | Pop-up\, 512 Macarthur Street\, Soldiers Hill\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Culture ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Current-Affairs-logo-cropped.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20221027T100000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20221027T130000 DTSTAMP:20260506T200045 CREATED:20220810T054809Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220810T062442Z UID:21381-1666864800-1666875600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Book-making Workshop with Maggie Dannatt | 27 October 22 DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Jane Cafarella \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n February 18\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$10 \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 \n \n \n \n Cleaved \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A story of loss\, legs and finding family \n \n \n \n \n \n \n It’s important that genuine stories such as this be published to show the extra-ordinary\, day-to-day courage of so-called ‘ordinary’ people - Highly recommended - Hazel Edwards OAM \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Former journalist for The Age and critically acclaimed Australian playwright and cartoonist\,\nJane Cafarella has written her memoir with great compassion and good humour. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cleaved is a story of coping with difference; of identity\, family\, and belonging. It is Jane’s story of growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema\, and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. It is honest\, moving and at times\, raw but at its core it is a beautifully crafted story of survival in a world of challenges and hard knocks. Jane Cafarella is\, and always has been\, a wonderful storyteller. Cleaved is her story. \n \n \n Cleaved | Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n Jane Cafarella is an Australian playwright and former journalist and cartoonist whose work has been widely published in Australia and overseas and whose plays have been performed nationally and internationally. Her cartoon archive is held at the State Library of Victoria. During her 10 years at Melbourne’s The Age newspaper\, Jane wrote and edited the popular Accent section\, which focused on women’s issues\, and for many years wrote the beloved columns A New Life Journal and Family Postcard. What she didn’t write about was growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema – and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. Written with compassion and humour\, Cleaved is an illuminating and moving story of coping with difference – and of two sisters\, foot soldiers in their parents marital war\, who lost and then found each other. Jane will be in conversation with Alisoun Downing. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lymphedema \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The World Health Organization estimates that up to 250 million people worldwide live with the incurable\, disfiguring\, progressive\, and little-known disease called lymphedema. In Jane Cafarella’s new memoir\, Cleaved\, the veil of secrecy surrounding lymphedema is stripped away as we meet a young girl in Australia living with an undiagnosed deformity. Ms. Cafarella weaves a stirring and universal coming-of-age story where the audience gets a rare glimpse of the impact of living with a disability while traversing the many roads on life’s journey. Lymphatic Education and Research Network (NYC) CEO\, William Repicci. I just finished it. I’m in bits. Such a beautiful story. Forgiveness\, the connections\, devoid of sentimentality\, yet the humanity – the flawed humans – have touched me. Thank you for a great read!  Susie Penrice Tyrie\, Singapore. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Enquiries:  Any event specific enquires should be direct to library@ballaratmi.org.au \n \n \n \n \n \n $10 per person plus booking fee & gst 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 Collins Booksellers\, Ballart on Lydiard will be handling book sales for the event. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Not become a member\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n More Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n The Marriage Trap Victoria Purman Don’t miss Victoira who will... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarta Writers – write it your way\n Stella Day Out\, Ballarat 5 November 2025 | As events... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – May 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Brian Chapman & Friends\, A Trio of Stunning Piano Quartets\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/book-making-workshop-with-maggie-dannatt-27-october-22/ LOCATION:Soldiers Hill CBD | Pop-up\, 512 Macarthur Street\, Soldiers Hill\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Art programs,BMI Produced Event ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/concertina-books.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20220927T103000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20220927T120000 DTSTAMP:20260506T200045 CREATED:20220930T060631Z LAST-MODIFIED:20221124T033024Z UID:22917-1664274600-1664280000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:The Reading Room | NOW CANCELLED DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Jane Cafarella \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n February 18\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$10 \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 \n \n \n \n Cleaved \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A story of loss\, legs and finding family \n \n \n \n \n \n \n It’s important that genuine stories such as this be published to show the extra-ordinary\, day-to-day courage of so-called ‘ordinary’ people - Highly recommended - Hazel Edwards OAM \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Former journalist for The Age and critically acclaimed Australian playwright and cartoonist\,\nJane Cafarella has written her memoir with great compassion and good humour. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cleaved is a story of coping with difference; of identity\, family\, and belonging. It is Jane’s story of growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema\, and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. It is honest\, moving and at times\, raw but at its core it is a beautifully crafted story of survival in a world of challenges and hard knocks. Jane Cafarella is\, and always has been\, a wonderful storyteller. Cleaved is her story. \n \n \n Cleaved | Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n Jane Cafarella is an Australian playwright and former journalist and cartoonist whose work has been widely published in Australia and overseas and whose plays have been performed nationally and internationally. Her cartoon archive is held at the State Library of Victoria. During her 10 years at Melbourne’s The Age newspaper\, Jane wrote and edited the popular Accent section\, which focused on women’s issues\, and for many years wrote the beloved columns A New Life Journal and Family Postcard. What she didn’t write about was growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema – and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. Written with compassion and humour\, Cleaved is an illuminating and moving story of coping with difference – and of two sisters\, foot soldiers in their parents marital war\, who lost and then found each other. Jane will be in conversation with Alisoun Downing. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lymphedema \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The World Health Organization estimates that up to 250 million people worldwide live with the incurable\, disfiguring\, progressive\, and little-known disease called lymphedema. In Jane Cafarella’s new memoir\, Cleaved\, the veil of secrecy surrounding lymphedema is stripped away as we meet a young girl in Australia living with an undiagnosed deformity. Ms. Cafarella weaves a stirring and universal coming-of-age story where the audience gets a rare glimpse of the impact of living with a disability while traversing the many roads on life’s journey. Lymphatic Education and Research Network (NYC) CEO\, William Repicci. I just finished it. I’m in bits. Such a beautiful story. Forgiveness\, the connections\, devoid of sentimentality\, yet the humanity – the flawed humans – have touched me. Thank you for a great read!  Susie Penrice Tyrie\, Singapore. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Enquiries:  Any event specific enquires should be direct to library@ballaratmi.org.au \n \n \n \n \n \n $10 per person plus booking fee & gst 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 Collins Booksellers\, Ballart on Lydiard will be handling book sales for the event. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Not become a member\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n More Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n The Marriage Trap Victoria Purman Don’t miss Victoira who will... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarta Writers – write it your way\n Stella Day Out\, Ballarat 5 November 2025 | As events... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – May 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Brian Chapman & Friends\, A Trio of Stunning Piano Quartets\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/the-reading-room-2/ LOCATION:Soldiers Hill CBD | Pop-up\, 512 Macarthur Street\, Soldiers Hill\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Culture,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/the-reading-room-event-header-final-e1640069925423.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20221020T100000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20221020T130000 DTSTAMP:20260506T200045 CREATED:20220810T054713Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220810T062741Z UID:21379-1666260000-1666270800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Book-making Workshop with Maggie Dannatt | 20 October 22 DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Jane Cafarella \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n February 18\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$10 \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 \n \n \n \n Cleaved \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A story of loss\, legs and finding family \n \n \n \n \n \n \n It’s important that genuine stories such as this be published to show the extra-ordinary\, day-to-day courage of so-called ‘ordinary’ people - Highly recommended - Hazel Edwards OAM \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Former journalist for The Age and critically acclaimed Australian playwright and cartoonist\,\nJane Cafarella has written her memoir with great compassion and good humour. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cleaved is a story of coping with difference; of identity\, family\, and belonging. It is Jane’s story of growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema\, and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. It is honest\, moving and at times\, raw but at its core it is a beautifully crafted story of survival in a world of challenges and hard knocks. Jane Cafarella is\, and always has been\, a wonderful storyteller. Cleaved is her story. \n \n \n Cleaved | Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n Jane Cafarella is an Australian playwright and former journalist and cartoonist whose work has been widely published in Australia and overseas and whose plays have been performed nationally and internationally. Her cartoon archive is held at the State Library of Victoria. During her 10 years at Melbourne’s The Age newspaper\, Jane wrote and edited the popular Accent section\, which focused on women’s issues\, and for many years wrote the beloved columns A New Life Journal and Family Postcard. What she didn’t write about was growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema – and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. Written with compassion and humour\, Cleaved is an illuminating and moving story of coping with difference – and of two sisters\, foot soldiers in their parents marital war\, who lost and then found each other. Jane will be in conversation with Alisoun Downing. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lymphedema \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The World Health Organization estimates that up to 250 million people worldwide live with the incurable\, disfiguring\, progressive\, and little-known disease called lymphedema. In Jane Cafarella’s new memoir\, Cleaved\, the veil of secrecy surrounding lymphedema is stripped away as we meet a young girl in Australia living with an undiagnosed deformity. Ms. Cafarella weaves a stirring and universal coming-of-age story where the audience gets a rare glimpse of the impact of living with a disability while traversing the many roads on life’s journey. Lymphatic Education and Research Network (NYC) CEO\, William Repicci. I just finished it. I’m in bits. Such a beautiful story. Forgiveness\, the connections\, devoid of sentimentality\, yet the humanity – the flawed humans – have touched me. Thank you for a great read!  Susie Penrice Tyrie\, Singapore. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Enquiries:  Any event specific enquires should be direct to library@ballaratmi.org.au \n \n \n \n \n \n $10 per person plus booking fee & gst 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 Collins Booksellers\, Ballart on Lydiard will be handling book sales for the event. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Not become a member\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n More Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n The Marriage Trap Victoria Purman Don’t miss Victoira who will... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarta Writers – write it your way\n Stella Day Out\, Ballarat 5 November 2025 | As events... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – May 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Brian Chapman & Friends\, A Trio of Stunning Piano Quartets\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/book-making-workshop-with-maggie-dannatt-20-october-22/ LOCATION:Soldiers Hill CBD | Pop-up\, 512 Macarthur Street\, Soldiers Hill\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Art programs,BMI Produced Event ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/concertina-books.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20221018T110000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20221018T120000 DTSTAMP:20260506T200045 CREATED:20220921T011745Z LAST-MODIFIED:20221017T205934Z UID:22558-1666090800-1666094400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Chris Hammer | Now cancelled DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Jane Cafarella \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n February 18\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$10 \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 \n \n \n \n Cleaved \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A story of loss\, legs and finding family \n \n \n \n \n \n \n It’s important that genuine stories such as this be published to show the extra-ordinary\, day-to-day courage of so-called ‘ordinary’ people - Highly recommended - Hazel Edwards OAM \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Former journalist for The Age and critically acclaimed Australian playwright and cartoonist\,\nJane Cafarella has written her memoir with great compassion and good humour. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cleaved is a story of coping with difference; of identity\, family\, and belonging. It is Jane’s story of growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema\, and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. It is honest\, moving and at times\, raw but at its core it is a beautifully crafted story of survival in a world of challenges and hard knocks. Jane Cafarella is\, and always has been\, a wonderful storyteller. Cleaved is her story. \n \n \n Cleaved | Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n Jane Cafarella is an Australian playwright and former journalist and cartoonist whose work has been widely published in Australia and overseas and whose plays have been performed nationally and internationally. Her cartoon archive is held at the State Library of Victoria. During her 10 years at Melbourne’s The Age newspaper\, Jane wrote and edited the popular Accent section\, which focused on women’s issues\, and for many years wrote the beloved columns A New Life Journal and Family Postcard. What she didn’t write about was growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema – and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. Written with compassion and humour\, Cleaved is an illuminating and moving story of coping with difference – and of two sisters\, foot soldiers in their parents marital war\, who lost and then found each other. Jane will be in conversation with Alisoun Downing. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lymphedema \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The World Health Organization estimates that up to 250 million people worldwide live with the incurable\, disfiguring\, progressive\, and little-known disease called lymphedema. In Jane Cafarella’s new memoir\, Cleaved\, the veil of secrecy surrounding lymphedema is stripped away as we meet a young girl in Australia living with an undiagnosed deformity. Ms. Cafarella weaves a stirring and universal coming-of-age story where the audience gets a rare glimpse of the impact of living with a disability while traversing the many roads on life’s journey. Lymphatic Education and Research Network (NYC) CEO\, William Repicci. I just finished it. I’m in bits. Such a beautiful story. Forgiveness\, the connections\, devoid of sentimentality\, yet the humanity – the flawed humans – have touched me. Thank you for a great read!  Susie Penrice Tyrie\, Singapore. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Enquiries:  Any event specific enquires should be direct to library@ballaratmi.org.au \n \n \n \n \n \n $10 per person plus booking fee & gst 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 Collins Booksellers\, Ballart on Lydiard will be handling book sales for the event. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Not become a member\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n More Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n The Marriage Trap Victoria Purman Don’t miss Victoira who will... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarta Writers – write it your way\n Stella Day Out\, Ballarat 5 November 2025 | As events... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – May 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Brian Chapman & Friends\, A Trio of Stunning Piano Quartets\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/chris-hammer-lyn-yeowart/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Culture,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/chris-hammer.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20221013T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20221013T213000 DTSTAMP:20260506T200045 CREATED:20220919T050928Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230912T011455Z UID:22474-1665687600-1665696600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Ballarat Film Society - Quo Vadis\, Aida? DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Jane Cafarella \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n February 18\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$10 \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 \n \n \n \n Cleaved \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A story of loss\, legs and finding family \n \n \n \n \n \n \n It’s important that genuine stories such as this be published to show the extra-ordinary\, day-to-day courage of so-called ‘ordinary’ people - Highly recommended - Hazel Edwards OAM \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Former journalist for The Age and critically acclaimed Australian playwright and cartoonist\,\nJane Cafarella has written her memoir with great compassion and good humour. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cleaved is a story of coping with difference; of identity\, family\, and belonging. It is Jane’s story of growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema\, and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. It is honest\, moving and at times\, raw but at its core it is a beautifully crafted story of survival in a world of challenges and hard knocks. Jane Cafarella is\, and always has been\, a wonderful storyteller. Cleaved is her story. \n \n \n Cleaved | Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n Jane Cafarella is an Australian playwright and former journalist and cartoonist whose work has been widely published in Australia and overseas and whose plays have been performed nationally and internationally. Her cartoon archive is held at the State Library of Victoria. During her 10 years at Melbourne’s The Age newspaper\, Jane wrote and edited the popular Accent section\, which focused on women’s issues\, and for many years wrote the beloved columns A New Life Journal and Family Postcard. What she didn’t write about was growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema – and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. Written with compassion and humour\, Cleaved is an illuminating and moving story of coping with difference – and of two sisters\, foot soldiers in their parents marital war\, who lost and then found each other. Jane will be in conversation with Alisoun Downing. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lymphedema \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The World Health Organization estimates that up to 250 million people worldwide live with the incurable\, disfiguring\, progressive\, and little-known disease called lymphedema. In Jane Cafarella’s new memoir\, Cleaved\, the veil of secrecy surrounding lymphedema is stripped away as we meet a young girl in Australia living with an undiagnosed deformity. Ms. Cafarella weaves a stirring and universal coming-of-age story where the audience gets a rare glimpse of the impact of living with a disability while traversing the many roads on life’s journey. Lymphatic Education and Research Network (NYC) CEO\, William Repicci. I just finished it. I’m in bits. Such a beautiful story. Forgiveness\, the connections\, devoid of sentimentality\, yet the humanity – the flawed humans – have touched me. Thank you for a great read!  Susie Penrice Tyrie\, Singapore. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Enquiries:  Any event specific enquires should be direct to library@ballaratmi.org.au \n \n \n \n \n \n $10 per person plus booking fee & gst 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 Collins Booksellers\, Ballart on Lydiard will be handling book sales for the event. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Not become a member\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n More Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n The Marriage Trap Victoria Purman Don’t miss Victoira who will... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarta Writers – write it your way\n Stella Day Out\, Ballarat 5 November 2025 | As events... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – May 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Brian Chapman & Friends\, A Trio of Stunning Piano Quartets\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/bfs-quo-vadis-aida/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Ballarat Film Society,Film ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/1_g_5Z4Kng926xzfndFfP_DA.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20221013T100000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20221013T130000 DTSTAMP:20260506T200045 CREATED:20220810T043837Z LAST-MODIFIED:20221010T023454Z UID:21335-1665655200-1665666000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Book-making Workshop with Maggie Dannatt | One space available DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Jane Cafarella \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n February 18\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$10 \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 \n \n \n \n Cleaved \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A story of loss\, legs and finding family \n \n \n \n \n \n \n It’s important that genuine stories such as this be published to show the extra-ordinary\, day-to-day courage of so-called ‘ordinary’ people - Highly recommended - Hazel Edwards OAM \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Former journalist for The Age and critically acclaimed Australian playwright and cartoonist\,\nJane Cafarella has written her memoir with great compassion and good humour. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cleaved is a story of coping with difference; of identity\, family\, and belonging. It is Jane’s story of growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema\, and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. It is honest\, moving and at times\, raw but at its core it is a beautifully crafted story of survival in a world of challenges and hard knocks. Jane Cafarella is\, and always has been\, a wonderful storyteller. Cleaved is her story. \n \n \n Cleaved | Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n Jane Cafarella is an Australian playwright and former journalist and cartoonist whose work has been widely published in Australia and overseas and whose plays have been performed nationally and internationally. Her cartoon archive is held at the State Library of Victoria. During her 10 years at Melbourne’s The Age newspaper\, Jane wrote and edited the popular Accent section\, which focused on women’s issues\, and for many years wrote the beloved columns A New Life Journal and Family Postcard. What she didn’t write about was growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema – and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. Written with compassion and humour\, Cleaved is an illuminating and moving story of coping with difference – and of two sisters\, foot soldiers in their parents marital war\, who lost and then found each other. Jane will be in conversation with Alisoun Downing. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lymphedema \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The World Health Organization estimates that up to 250 million people worldwide live with the incurable\, disfiguring\, progressive\, and little-known disease called lymphedema. In Jane Cafarella’s new memoir\, Cleaved\, the veil of secrecy surrounding lymphedema is stripped away as we meet a young girl in Australia living with an undiagnosed deformity. Ms. Cafarella weaves a stirring and universal coming-of-age story where the audience gets a rare glimpse of the impact of living with a disability while traversing the many roads on life’s journey. Lymphatic Education and Research Network (NYC) CEO\, William Repicci. I just finished it. I’m in bits. Such a beautiful story. Forgiveness\, the connections\, devoid of sentimentality\, yet the humanity – the flawed humans – have touched me. Thank you for a great read!  Susie Penrice Tyrie\, Singapore. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Enquiries:  Any event specific enquires should be direct to library@ballaratmi.org.au \n \n \n \n \n \n $10 per person plus booking fee & gst 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 Collins Booksellers\, Ballart on Lydiard will be handling book sales for the event. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Not become a member\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n More Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n The Marriage Trap Victoria Purman Don’t miss Victoira who will... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarta Writers – write it your way\n Stella Day Out\, Ballarat 5 November 2025 | As events... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – May 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Brian Chapman & Friends\, A Trio of Stunning Piano Quartets\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/book-making-workshop-with-maggie-dannatt-13-october-22/ LOCATION:Soldiers Hill CBD | Pop-up\, 512 Macarthur Street\, Soldiers Hill\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Art programs,BMI Produced Event ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/concertina-books.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20220929T130000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20220929T150000 DTSTAMP:20260506T200045 CREATED:20220930T060021Z LAST-MODIFIED:20221124T002915Z UID:22908-1664456400-1664463600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Current Affairs Dialogue | Discussion Group | NOW POSTPONED DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Jane Cafarella \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n February 18\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$10 \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 \n \n \n \n Cleaved \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A story of loss\, legs and finding family \n \n \n \n \n \n \n It’s important that genuine stories such as this be published to show the extra-ordinary\, day-to-day courage of so-called ‘ordinary’ people - Highly recommended - Hazel Edwards OAM \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Former journalist for The Age and critically acclaimed Australian playwright and cartoonist\,\nJane Cafarella has written her memoir with great compassion and good humour. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cleaved is a story of coping with difference; of identity\, family\, and belonging. It is Jane’s story of growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema\, and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. It is honest\, moving and at times\, raw but at its core it is a beautifully crafted story of survival in a world of challenges and hard knocks. Jane Cafarella is\, and always has been\, a wonderful storyteller. Cleaved is her story. \n \n \n Cleaved | Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n Jane Cafarella is an Australian playwright and former journalist and cartoonist whose work has been widely published in Australia and overseas and whose plays have been performed nationally and internationally. Her cartoon archive is held at the State Library of Victoria. During her 10 years at Melbourne’s The Age newspaper\, Jane wrote and edited the popular Accent section\, which focused on women’s issues\, and for many years wrote the beloved columns A New Life Journal and Family Postcard. What she didn’t write about was growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema – and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. Written with compassion and humour\, Cleaved is an illuminating and moving story of coping with difference – and of two sisters\, foot soldiers in their parents marital war\, who lost and then found each other. Jane will be in conversation with Alisoun Downing. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lymphedema \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The World Health Organization estimates that up to 250 million people worldwide live with the incurable\, disfiguring\, progressive\, and little-known disease called lymphedema. In Jane Cafarella’s new memoir\, Cleaved\, the veil of secrecy surrounding lymphedema is stripped away as we meet a young girl in Australia living with an undiagnosed deformity. Ms. Cafarella weaves a stirring and universal coming-of-age story where the audience gets a rare glimpse of the impact of living with a disability while traversing the many roads on life’s journey. Lymphatic Education and Research Network (NYC) CEO\, William Repicci. I just finished it. I’m in bits. Such a beautiful story. Forgiveness\, the connections\, devoid of sentimentality\, yet the humanity – the flawed humans – have touched me. Thank you for a great read!  Susie Penrice Tyrie\, Singapore. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Enquiries:  Any event specific enquires should be direct to library@ballaratmi.org.au \n \n \n \n \n \n $10 per person plus booking fee & gst 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 Collins Booksellers\, Ballart on Lydiard will be handling book sales for the event. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Not become a member\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n More Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n The Marriage Trap Victoria Purman Don’t miss Victoira who will... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarta Writers – write it your way\n Stella Day Out\, Ballarat 5 November 2025 | As events... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – May 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Brian Chapman & Friends\, A Trio of Stunning Piano Quartets\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/current-affairs-dialogue/ LOCATION:Soldiers Hill CBD | Pop-up\, 512 Macarthur Street\, Soldiers Hill\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Culture ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Current-Affairs-logo-cropped.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20220929T130000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20220929T150000 DTSTAMP:20260506T200045 CREATED:20220915T231913Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220915T233104Z UID:21779-1664456400-1664463600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Current Affairs Dialogue | Discussion Group DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Jane Cafarella \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n February 18\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$10 \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 \n \n \n \n Cleaved \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A story of loss\, legs and finding family \n \n \n \n \n \n \n It’s important that genuine stories such as this be published to show the extra-ordinary\, day-to-day courage of so-called ‘ordinary’ people - Highly recommended - Hazel Edwards OAM \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Former journalist for The Age and critically acclaimed Australian playwright and cartoonist\,\nJane Cafarella has written her memoir with great compassion and good humour. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cleaved is a story of coping with difference; of identity\, family\, and belonging. It is Jane’s story of growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema\, and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. It is honest\, moving and at times\, raw but at its core it is a beautifully crafted story of survival in a world of challenges and hard knocks. Jane Cafarella is\, and always has been\, a wonderful storyteller. Cleaved is her story. \n \n \n Cleaved | Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n Jane Cafarella is an Australian playwright and former journalist and cartoonist whose work has been widely published in Australia and overseas and whose plays have been performed nationally and internationally. Her cartoon archive is held at the State Library of Victoria. During her 10 years at Melbourne’s The Age newspaper\, Jane wrote and edited the popular Accent section\, which focused on women’s issues\, and for many years wrote the beloved columns A New Life Journal and Family Postcard. What she didn’t write about was growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema – and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. Written with compassion and humour\, Cleaved is an illuminating and moving story of coping with difference – and of two sisters\, foot soldiers in their parents marital war\, who lost and then found each other. Jane will be in conversation with Alisoun Downing. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lymphedema \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The World Health Organization estimates that up to 250 million people worldwide live with the incurable\, disfiguring\, progressive\, and little-known disease called lymphedema. In Jane Cafarella’s new memoir\, Cleaved\, the veil of secrecy surrounding lymphedema is stripped away as we meet a young girl in Australia living with an undiagnosed deformity. Ms. Cafarella weaves a stirring and universal coming-of-age story where the audience gets a rare glimpse of the impact of living with a disability while traversing the many roads on life’s journey. Lymphatic Education and Research Network (NYC) CEO\, William Repicci. I just finished it. I’m in bits. Such a beautiful story. Forgiveness\, the connections\, devoid of sentimentality\, yet the humanity – the flawed humans – have touched me. Thank you for a great read!  Susie Penrice Tyrie\, Singapore. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Enquiries:  Any event specific enquires should be direct to library@ballaratmi.org.au \n \n \n \n \n \n $10 per person plus booking fee & gst 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 Collins Booksellers\, Ballart on Lydiard will be handling book sales for the event. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Not become a member\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n More Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n The Marriage Trap Victoria Purman Don’t miss Victoira who will... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarta Writers – write it your way\n Stella Day Out\, Ballarat 5 November 2025 | As events... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – May 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Brian Chapman & Friends\, A Trio of Stunning Piano Quartets\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/current-affairs-dialogue-3/ LOCATION:Soldiers Hill CBD | Pop-up\, 512 Macarthur Street\, Soldiers Hill\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Culture ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Current-Affairs-logo-cropped.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20220928T170000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20220928T190000 DTSTAMP:20260506T200045 CREATED:20220602T003737Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220907T233638Z UID:19231-1664384400-1664391600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Twilight Talks 2022 | Season 2 | Session 4 DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Jane Cafarella \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n February 18\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$10 \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 \n \n \n \n Cleaved \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A story of loss\, legs and finding family \n \n \n \n \n \n \n It’s important that genuine stories such as this be published to show the extra-ordinary\, day-to-day courage of so-called ‘ordinary’ people - Highly recommended - Hazel Edwards OAM \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Former journalist for The Age and critically acclaimed Australian playwright and cartoonist\,\nJane Cafarella has written her memoir with great compassion and good humour. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cleaved is a story of coping with difference; of identity\, family\, and belonging. It is Jane’s story of growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema\, and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. It is honest\, moving and at times\, raw but at its core it is a beautifully crafted story of survival in a world of challenges and hard knocks. Jane Cafarella is\, and always has been\, a wonderful storyteller. Cleaved is her story. \n \n \n Cleaved | Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n Jane Cafarella is an Australian playwright and former journalist and cartoonist whose work has been widely published in Australia and overseas and whose plays have been performed nationally and internationally. Her cartoon archive is held at the State Library of Victoria. During her 10 years at Melbourne’s The Age newspaper\, Jane wrote and edited the popular Accent section\, which focused on women’s issues\, and for many years wrote the beloved columns A New Life Journal and Family Postcard. What she didn’t write about was growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema – and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. Written with compassion and humour\, Cleaved is an illuminating and moving story of coping with difference – and of two sisters\, foot soldiers in their parents marital war\, who lost and then found each other. Jane will be in conversation with Alisoun Downing. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lymphedema \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The World Health Organization estimates that up to 250 million people worldwide live with the incurable\, disfiguring\, progressive\, and little-known disease called lymphedema. In Jane Cafarella’s new memoir\, Cleaved\, the veil of secrecy surrounding lymphedema is stripped away as we meet a young girl in Australia living with an undiagnosed deformity. Ms. Cafarella weaves a stirring and universal coming-of-age story where the audience gets a rare glimpse of the impact of living with a disability while traversing the many roads on life’s journey. Lymphatic Education and Research Network (NYC) CEO\, William Repicci. I just finished it. I’m in bits. Such a beautiful story. Forgiveness\, the connections\, devoid of sentimentality\, yet the humanity – the flawed humans – have touched me. Thank you for a great read!  Susie Penrice Tyrie\, Singapore. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Enquiries:  Any event specific enquires should be direct to library@ballaratmi.org.au \n \n \n \n \n \n $10 per person plus booking fee & gst 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 Collins Booksellers\, Ballart on Lydiard will be handling book sales for the event. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Not become a member\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n More Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n The Marriage Trap Victoria Purman Don’t miss Victoira who will... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarta Writers – write it your way\n Stella Day Out\, Ballarat 5 November 2025 | As events... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – May 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Brian Chapman & Friends\, A Trio of Stunning Piano Quartets\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/twilight-talks-2022-season-2-session-4/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:BMI Produced Event,Culture,Twilight Talks ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/tt-banner-22-2-e1654128079849.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20220927T140000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20220927T150000 DTSTAMP:20260506T200045 CREATED:20220804T055529Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220804T055733Z UID:21285-1664287200-1664290800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Day Tour of the Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Jane Cafarella \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n February 18\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$10 \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 \n \n \n \n Cleaved \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A story of loss\, legs and finding family \n \n \n \n \n \n \n It’s important that genuine stories such as this be published to show the extra-ordinary\, day-to-day courage of so-called ‘ordinary’ people - Highly recommended - Hazel Edwards OAM \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Former journalist for The Age and critically acclaimed Australian playwright and cartoonist\,\nJane Cafarella has written her memoir with great compassion and good humour. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cleaved is a story of coping with difference; of identity\, family\, and belonging. It is Jane’s story of growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema\, and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. It is honest\, moving and at times\, raw but at its core it is a beautifully crafted story of survival in a world of challenges and hard knocks. Jane Cafarella is\, and always has been\, a wonderful storyteller. Cleaved is her story. \n \n \n Cleaved | Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n Jane Cafarella is an Australian playwright and former journalist and cartoonist whose work has been widely published in Australia and overseas and whose plays have been performed nationally and internationally. Her cartoon archive is held at the State Library of Victoria. During her 10 years at Melbourne’s The Age newspaper\, Jane wrote and edited the popular Accent section\, which focused on women’s issues\, and for many years wrote the beloved columns A New Life Journal and Family Postcard. What she didn’t write about was growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema – and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. Written with compassion and humour\, Cleaved is an illuminating and moving story of coping with difference – and of two sisters\, foot soldiers in their parents marital war\, who lost and then found each other. Jane will be in conversation with Alisoun Downing. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lymphedema \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The World Health Organization estimates that up to 250 million people worldwide live with the incurable\, disfiguring\, progressive\, and little-known disease called lymphedema. In Jane Cafarella’s new memoir\, Cleaved\, the veil of secrecy surrounding lymphedema is stripped away as we meet a young girl in Australia living with an undiagnosed deformity. Ms. Cafarella weaves a stirring and universal coming-of-age story where the audience gets a rare glimpse of the impact of living with a disability while traversing the many roads on life’s journey. Lymphatic Education and Research Network (NYC) CEO\, William Repicci. I just finished it. I’m in bits. Such a beautiful story. Forgiveness\, the connections\, devoid of sentimentality\, yet the humanity – the flawed humans – have touched me. Thank you for a great read!  Susie Penrice Tyrie\, Singapore. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Enquiries:  Any event specific enquires should be direct to library@ballaratmi.org.au \n \n \n \n \n \n $10 per person plus booking fee & gst 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 Collins Booksellers\, Ballart on Lydiard will be handling book sales for the event. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Not become a member\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n More Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n The Marriage Trap Victoria Purman Don’t miss Victoira who will... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarta Writers – write it your way\n Stella Day Out\, Ballarat 5 November 2025 | As events... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – May 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Brian Chapman & Friends\, A Trio of Stunning Piano Quartets\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/tours-of-ballarat-mechanics-institute-september-4/ LOCATION:Soldiers Hill CBD | Pop-up\, 512 Macarthur Street\, Soldiers Hill\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:BMI Produced Event,Culture,Twilight Talks ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/tours-banner-draft-cropped.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20220927T103000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20220927T120000 DTSTAMP:20260506T200046 CREATED:20220930T060631Z LAST-MODIFIED:20221124T033024Z UID:22917-1664274600-1664280000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:The Reading Room | NOW CANCELLED DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Jane Cafarella \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n February 18\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$10 \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 \n \n \n \n Cleaved \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A story of loss\, legs and finding family \n \n \n \n \n \n \n It’s important that genuine stories such as this be published to show the extra-ordinary\, day-to-day courage of so-called ‘ordinary’ people - Highly recommended - Hazel Edwards OAM \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Former journalist for The Age and critically acclaimed Australian playwright and cartoonist\,\nJane Cafarella has written her memoir with great compassion and good humour. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cleaved is a story of coping with difference; of identity\, family\, and belonging. It is Jane’s story of growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema\, and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. It is honest\, moving and at times\, raw but at its core it is a beautifully crafted story of survival in a world of challenges and hard knocks. Jane Cafarella is\, and always has been\, a wonderful storyteller. Cleaved is her story. \n \n \n Cleaved | Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n Jane Cafarella is an Australian playwright and former journalist and cartoonist whose work has been widely published in Australia and overseas and whose plays have been performed nationally and internationally. Her cartoon archive is held at the State Library of Victoria. During her 10 years at Melbourne’s The Age newspaper\, Jane wrote and edited the popular Accent section\, which focused on women’s issues\, and for many years wrote the beloved columns A New Life Journal and Family Postcard. What she didn’t write about was growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema – and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. Written with compassion and humour\, Cleaved is an illuminating and moving story of coping with difference – and of two sisters\, foot soldiers in their parents marital war\, who lost and then found each other. Jane will be in conversation with Alisoun Downing. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lymphedema \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The World Health Organization estimates that up to 250 million people worldwide live with the incurable\, disfiguring\, progressive\, and little-known disease called lymphedema. In Jane Cafarella’s new memoir\, Cleaved\, the veil of secrecy surrounding lymphedema is stripped away as we meet a young girl in Australia living with an undiagnosed deformity. Ms. Cafarella weaves a stirring and universal coming-of-age story where the audience gets a rare glimpse of the impact of living with a disability while traversing the many roads on life’s journey. Lymphatic Education and Research Network (NYC) CEO\, William Repicci. I just finished it. I’m in bits. Such a beautiful story. Forgiveness\, the connections\, devoid of sentimentality\, yet the humanity – the flawed humans – have touched me. Thank you for a great read!  Susie Penrice Tyrie\, Singapore. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Enquiries:  Any event specific enquires should be direct to library@ballaratmi.org.au \n \n \n \n \n \n $10 per person plus booking fee & gst 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 Collins Booksellers\, Ballart on Lydiard will be handling book sales for the event. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Not become a member\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n More Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n The Marriage Trap Victoria Purman Don’t miss Victoira who will... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarta Writers – write it your way\n Stella Day Out\, Ballarat 5 November 2025 | As events... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – May 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Brian Chapman & Friends\, A Trio of Stunning Piano Quartets\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/the-reading-room-2/ LOCATION:Soldiers Hill CBD | Pop-up\, 512 Macarthur Street\, Soldiers Hill\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Culture,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/the-reading-room-event-header-final-e1640069925423.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20220927T103000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20220927T120000 DTSTAMP:20260506T200046 CREATED:20220915T231915Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220915T233443Z UID:21780-1664274600-1664280000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:The Reading Room | 27 September 2022 DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Jane Cafarella \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n February 18\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$10 \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 \n \n \n \n Cleaved \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A story of loss\, legs and finding family \n \n \n \n \n \n \n It’s important that genuine stories such as this be published to show the extra-ordinary\, day-to-day courage of so-called ‘ordinary’ people - Highly recommended - Hazel Edwards OAM \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Former journalist for The Age and critically acclaimed Australian playwright and cartoonist\,\nJane Cafarella has written her memoir with great compassion and good humour. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cleaved is a story of coping with difference; of identity\, family\, and belonging. It is Jane’s story of growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema\, and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. It is honest\, moving and at times\, raw but at its core it is a beautifully crafted story of survival in a world of challenges and hard knocks. Jane Cafarella is\, and always has been\, a wonderful storyteller. Cleaved is her story. \n \n \n Cleaved | Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n Jane Cafarella is an Australian playwright and former journalist and cartoonist whose work has been widely published in Australia and overseas and whose plays have been performed nationally and internationally. Her cartoon archive is held at the State Library of Victoria. During her 10 years at Melbourne’s The Age newspaper\, Jane wrote and edited the popular Accent section\, which focused on women’s issues\, and for many years wrote the beloved columns A New Life Journal and Family Postcard. What she didn’t write about was growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema – and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. Written with compassion and humour\, Cleaved is an illuminating and moving story of coping with difference – and of two sisters\, foot soldiers in their parents marital war\, who lost and then found each other. Jane will be in conversation with Alisoun Downing. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lymphedema \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The World Health Organization estimates that up to 250 million people worldwide live with the incurable\, disfiguring\, progressive\, and little-known disease called lymphedema. In Jane Cafarella’s new memoir\, Cleaved\, the veil of secrecy surrounding lymphedema is stripped away as we meet a young girl in Australia living with an undiagnosed deformity. Ms. Cafarella weaves a stirring and universal coming-of-age story where the audience gets a rare glimpse of the impact of living with a disability while traversing the many roads on life’s journey. Lymphatic Education and Research Network (NYC) CEO\, William Repicci. I just finished it. I’m in bits. Such a beautiful story. Forgiveness\, the connections\, devoid of sentimentality\, yet the humanity – the flawed humans – have touched me. Thank you for a great read!  Susie Penrice Tyrie\, Singapore. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Enquiries:  Any event specific enquires should be direct to library@ballaratmi.org.au \n \n \n \n \n \n $10 per person plus booking fee & gst 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 Collins Booksellers\, Ballart on Lydiard will be handling book sales for the event. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Not become a member\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n More Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n The Marriage Trap Victoria Purman Don’t miss Victoira who will... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarta Writers – write it your way\n Stella Day Out\, Ballarat 5 November 2025 | As events... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – May 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Brian Chapman & Friends\, A Trio of Stunning Piano Quartets\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/the-reading-room-22-september-2022/ LOCATION:Soldiers Hill CBD | Pop-up\, 512 Macarthur Street\, Soldiers Hill\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Culture,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/the-reading-room-event-header-final-e1640069925423.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20220921T170000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20220921T190000 DTSTAMP:20260506T200046 CREATED:20220617T002729Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220907T232606Z UID:19228-1663779600-1663786800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Twilight Talks 2022 | Season 2 | Session 3 DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Jane Cafarella \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n February 18\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$10 \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 \n \n \n \n Cleaved \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A story of loss\, legs and finding family \n \n \n \n \n \n \n It’s important that genuine stories such as this be published to show the extra-ordinary\, day-to-day courage of so-called ‘ordinary’ people - Highly recommended - Hazel Edwards OAM \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Former journalist for The Age and critically acclaimed Australian playwright and cartoonist\,\nJane Cafarella has written her memoir with great compassion and good humour. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cleaved is a story of coping with difference; of identity\, family\, and belonging. It is Jane’s story of growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema\, and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. It is honest\, moving and at times\, raw but at its core it is a beautifully crafted story of survival in a world of challenges and hard knocks. Jane Cafarella is\, and always has been\, a wonderful storyteller. Cleaved is her story. \n \n \n Cleaved | Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n Jane Cafarella is an Australian playwright and former journalist and cartoonist whose work has been widely published in Australia and overseas and whose plays have been performed nationally and internationally. Her cartoon archive is held at the State Library of Victoria. During her 10 years at Melbourne’s The Age newspaper\, Jane wrote and edited the popular Accent section\, which focused on women’s issues\, and for many years wrote the beloved columns A New Life Journal and Family Postcard. What she didn’t write about was growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema – and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. Written with compassion and humour\, Cleaved is an illuminating and moving story of coping with difference – and of two sisters\, foot soldiers in their parents marital war\, who lost and then found each other. Jane will be in conversation with Alisoun Downing. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lymphedema \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The World Health Organization estimates that up to 250 million people worldwide live with the incurable\, disfiguring\, progressive\, and little-known disease called lymphedema. In Jane Cafarella’s new memoir\, Cleaved\, the veil of secrecy surrounding lymphedema is stripped away as we meet a young girl in Australia living with an undiagnosed deformity. Ms. Cafarella weaves a stirring and universal coming-of-age story where the audience gets a rare glimpse of the impact of living with a disability while traversing the many roads on life’s journey. Lymphatic Education and Research Network (NYC) CEO\, William Repicci. I just finished it. I’m in bits. Such a beautiful story. Forgiveness\, the connections\, devoid of sentimentality\, yet the humanity – the flawed humans – have touched me. Thank you for a great read!  Susie Penrice Tyrie\, Singapore. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Enquiries:  Any event specific enquires should be direct to library@ballaratmi.org.au \n \n \n \n \n \n $10 per person plus booking fee & gst 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 Collins Booksellers\, Ballart on Lydiard will be handling book sales for the event. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Not become a member\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n More Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n The Marriage Trap Victoria Purman Don’t miss Victoira who will... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarta Writers – write it your way\n Stella Day Out\, Ballarat 5 November 2025 | As events... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – May 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Brian Chapman & Friends\, A Trio of Stunning Piano Quartets\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/twilight-talks-2022-season-2-session-3/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:BMI Produced Event,Culture,Twilight Talks ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/tt-banner-22-2-e1654128079849.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20220920T140000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20220920T150000 DTSTAMP:20260506T200046 CREATED:20220804T055319Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220804T055512Z UID:21283-1663682400-1663686000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Day Tour of the Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Jane Cafarella \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n February 18\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$10 \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 \n \n \n \n Cleaved \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A story of loss\, legs and finding family \n \n \n \n \n \n \n It’s important that genuine stories such as this be published to show the extra-ordinary\, day-to-day courage of so-called ‘ordinary’ people - Highly recommended - Hazel Edwards OAM \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Former journalist for The Age and critically acclaimed Australian playwright and cartoonist\,\nJane Cafarella has written her memoir with great compassion and good humour. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cleaved is a story of coping with difference; of identity\, family\, and belonging. It is Jane’s story of growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema\, and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. It is honest\, moving and at times\, raw but at its core it is a beautifully crafted story of survival in a world of challenges and hard knocks. Jane Cafarella is\, and always has been\, a wonderful storyteller. Cleaved is her story. \n \n \n Cleaved | Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n Jane Cafarella is an Australian playwright and former journalist and cartoonist whose work has been widely published in Australia and overseas and whose plays have been performed nationally and internationally. Her cartoon archive is held at the State Library of Victoria. During her 10 years at Melbourne’s The Age newspaper\, Jane wrote and edited the popular Accent section\, which focused on women’s issues\, and for many years wrote the beloved columns A New Life Journal and Family Postcard. What she didn’t write about was growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema – and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. Written with compassion and humour\, Cleaved is an illuminating and moving story of coping with difference – and of two sisters\, foot soldiers in their parents marital war\, who lost and then found each other. Jane will be in conversation with Alisoun Downing. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lymphedema \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The World Health Organization estimates that up to 250 million people worldwide live with the incurable\, disfiguring\, progressive\, and little-known disease called lymphedema. In Jane Cafarella’s new memoir\, Cleaved\, the veil of secrecy surrounding lymphedema is stripped away as we meet a young girl in Australia living with an undiagnosed deformity. Ms. Cafarella weaves a stirring and universal coming-of-age story where the audience gets a rare glimpse of the impact of living with a disability while traversing the many roads on life’s journey. Lymphatic Education and Research Network (NYC) CEO\, William Repicci. I just finished it. I’m in bits. Such a beautiful story. Forgiveness\, the connections\, devoid of sentimentality\, yet the humanity – the flawed humans – have touched me. Thank you for a great read!  Susie Penrice Tyrie\, Singapore. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Enquiries:  Any event specific enquires should be direct to library@ballaratmi.org.au \n \n \n \n \n \n $10 per person plus booking fee & gst 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 Collins Booksellers\, Ballart on Lydiard will be handling book sales for the event. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Not become a member\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n More Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n The Marriage Trap Victoria Purman Don’t miss Victoira who will... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarta Writers – write it your way\n Stella Day Out\, Ballarat 5 November 2025 | As events... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – May 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Brian Chapman & Friends\, A Trio of Stunning Piano Quartets\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/tours-of-ballarat-mechanics-institute-september-3/ LOCATION:Soldiers Hill CBD | Pop-up\, 512 Macarthur Street\, Soldiers Hill\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:BMI Produced Event,Culture,Twilight Talks ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/tours-banner-draft-cropped.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20220917T170000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20220917T190000 DTSTAMP:20260506T200046 CREATED:20220913T033019Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220913T033156Z UID:21690-1663434000-1663441200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:'Mine-Field' Documentary Screening + QnA DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Jane Cafarella \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n February 18\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$10 \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 \n \n \n \n Cleaved \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A story of loss\, legs and finding family \n \n \n \n \n \n \n It’s important that genuine stories such as this be published to show the extra-ordinary\, day-to-day courage of so-called ‘ordinary’ people - Highly recommended - Hazel Edwards OAM \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Former journalist for The Age and critically acclaimed Australian playwright and cartoonist\,\nJane Cafarella has written her memoir with great compassion and good humour. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cleaved is a story of coping with difference; of identity\, family\, and belonging. It is Jane’s story of growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema\, and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. It is honest\, moving and at times\, raw but at its core it is a beautifully crafted story of survival in a world of challenges and hard knocks. Jane Cafarella is\, and always has been\, a wonderful storyteller. Cleaved is her story. \n \n \n Cleaved | Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n Jane Cafarella is an Australian playwright and former journalist and cartoonist whose work has been widely published in Australia and overseas and whose plays have been performed nationally and internationally. Her cartoon archive is held at the State Library of Victoria. During her 10 years at Melbourne’s The Age newspaper\, Jane wrote and edited the popular Accent section\, which focused on women’s issues\, and for many years wrote the beloved columns A New Life Journal and Family Postcard. What she didn’t write about was growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema – and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. Written with compassion and humour\, Cleaved is an illuminating and moving story of coping with difference – and of two sisters\, foot soldiers in their parents marital war\, who lost and then found each other. Jane will be in conversation with Alisoun Downing. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lymphedema \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The World Health Organization estimates that up to 250 million people worldwide live with the incurable\, disfiguring\, progressive\, and little-known disease called lymphedema. In Jane Cafarella’s new memoir\, Cleaved\, the veil of secrecy surrounding lymphedema is stripped away as we meet a young girl in Australia living with an undiagnosed deformity. Ms. Cafarella weaves a stirring and universal coming-of-age story where the audience gets a rare glimpse of the impact of living with a disability while traversing the many roads on life’s journey. Lymphatic Education and Research Network (NYC) CEO\, William Repicci. I just finished it. I’m in bits. Such a beautiful story. Forgiveness\, the connections\, devoid of sentimentality\, yet the humanity – the flawed humans – have touched me. Thank you for a great read!  Susie Penrice Tyrie\, Singapore. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Enquiries:  Any event specific enquires should be direct to library@ballaratmi.org.au \n \n \n \n \n \n $10 per person plus booking fee & gst 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 Collins Booksellers\, Ballart on Lydiard will be handling book sales for the event. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Not become a member\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n More Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n The Marriage Trap Victoria Purman Don’t miss Victoira who will... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarta Writers – write it your way\n Stella Day Out\, Ballarat 5 November 2025 | As events... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – May 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Brian Chapman & Friends\, A Trio of Stunning Piano Quartets\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/mine-field/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Externally Produced Event,Film,Fundraiser ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Screen-Shot-2022-09-13-at-11.56.24-e1663039747360.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20220914T170000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20220914T190000 DTSTAMP:20260506T200046 CREATED:20220602T003246Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220907T232229Z UID:19225-1663174800-1663182000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Twilight Talks 2022 | Season 2 | Session 2 DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Jane Cafarella \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n February 18\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$10 \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 \n \n \n \n Cleaved \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A story of loss\, legs and finding family \n \n \n \n \n \n \n It’s important that genuine stories such as this be published to show the extra-ordinary\, day-to-day courage of so-called ‘ordinary’ people - Highly recommended - Hazel Edwards OAM \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Former journalist for The Age and critically acclaimed Australian playwright and cartoonist\,\nJane Cafarella has written her memoir with great compassion and good humour. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cleaved is a story of coping with difference; of identity\, family\, and belonging. It is Jane’s story of growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema\, and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. It is honest\, moving and at times\, raw but at its core it is a beautifully crafted story of survival in a world of challenges and hard knocks. Jane Cafarella is\, and always has been\, a wonderful storyteller. Cleaved is her story. \n \n \n Cleaved | Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n Jane Cafarella is an Australian playwright and former journalist and cartoonist whose work has been widely published in Australia and overseas and whose plays have been performed nationally and internationally. Her cartoon archive is held at the State Library of Victoria. During her 10 years at Melbourne’s The Age newspaper\, Jane wrote and edited the popular Accent section\, which focused on women’s issues\, and for many years wrote the beloved columns A New Life Journal and Family Postcard. What she didn’t write about was growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema – and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. Written with compassion and humour\, Cleaved is an illuminating and moving story of coping with difference – and of two sisters\, foot soldiers in their parents marital war\, who lost and then found each other. Jane will be in conversation with Alisoun Downing. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lymphedema \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The World Health Organization estimates that up to 250 million people worldwide live with the incurable\, disfiguring\, progressive\, and little-known disease called lymphedema. In Jane Cafarella’s new memoir\, Cleaved\, the veil of secrecy surrounding lymphedema is stripped away as we meet a young girl in Australia living with an undiagnosed deformity. Ms. Cafarella weaves a stirring and universal coming-of-age story where the audience gets a rare glimpse of the impact of living with a disability while traversing the many roads on life’s journey. Lymphatic Education and Research Network (NYC) CEO\, William Repicci. I just finished it. I’m in bits. Such a beautiful story. Forgiveness\, the connections\, devoid of sentimentality\, yet the humanity – the flawed humans – have touched me. Thank you for a great read!  Susie Penrice Tyrie\, Singapore. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Enquiries:  Any event specific enquires should be direct to library@ballaratmi.org.au \n \n \n \n \n \n $10 per person plus booking fee & gst 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 Collins Booksellers\, Ballart on Lydiard will be handling book sales for the event. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Not become a member\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n More Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n The Marriage Trap Victoria Purman Don’t miss Victoira who will... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarta Writers – write it your way\n Stella Day Out\, Ballarat 5 November 2025 | As events... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – May 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Brian Chapman & Friends\, A Trio of Stunning Piano Quartets\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/twilight-talks-2022-season-2-session-2/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:BMI Produced Event,Culture,Twilight Talks ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/tt-banner-22-2-e1654128079849.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20220913T140000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20220913T150000 DTSTAMP:20260506T200046 CREATED:20220804T055128Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220804T055309Z UID:21280-1663077600-1663081200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Day Tour of the Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Jane Cafarella \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n February 18\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$10 \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 \n \n \n \n Cleaved \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A story of loss\, legs and finding family \n \n \n \n \n \n \n It’s important that genuine stories such as this be published to show the extra-ordinary\, day-to-day courage of so-called ‘ordinary’ people - Highly recommended - Hazel Edwards OAM \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Former journalist for The Age and critically acclaimed Australian playwright and cartoonist\,\nJane Cafarella has written her memoir with great compassion and good humour. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cleaved is a story of coping with difference; of identity\, family\, and belonging. It is Jane’s story of growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema\, and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. It is honest\, moving and at times\, raw but at its core it is a beautifully crafted story of survival in a world of challenges and hard knocks. Jane Cafarella is\, and always has been\, a wonderful storyteller. Cleaved is her story. \n \n \n Cleaved | Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n Jane Cafarella is an Australian playwright and former journalist and cartoonist whose work has been widely published in Australia and overseas and whose plays have been performed nationally and internationally. Her cartoon archive is held at the State Library of Victoria. During her 10 years at Melbourne’s The Age newspaper\, Jane wrote and edited the popular Accent section\, which focused on women’s issues\, and for many years wrote the beloved columns A New Life Journal and Family Postcard. What she didn’t write about was growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema – and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. Written with compassion and humour\, Cleaved is an illuminating and moving story of coping with difference – and of two sisters\, foot soldiers in their parents marital war\, who lost and then found each other. Jane will be in conversation with Alisoun Downing. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lymphedema \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The World Health Organization estimates that up to 250 million people worldwide live with the incurable\, disfiguring\, progressive\, and little-known disease called lymphedema. In Jane Cafarella’s new memoir\, Cleaved\, the veil of secrecy surrounding lymphedema is stripped away as we meet a young girl in Australia living with an undiagnosed deformity. Ms. Cafarella weaves a stirring and universal coming-of-age story where the audience gets a rare glimpse of the impact of living with a disability while traversing the many roads on life’s journey. Lymphatic Education and Research Network (NYC) CEO\, William Repicci. I just finished it. I’m in bits. Such a beautiful story. Forgiveness\, the connections\, devoid of sentimentality\, yet the humanity – the flawed humans – have touched me. Thank you for a great read!  Susie Penrice Tyrie\, Singapore. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Enquiries:  Any event specific enquires should be direct to library@ballaratmi.org.au \n \n \n \n \n \n $10 per person plus booking fee & gst 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 Collins Booksellers\, Ballart on Lydiard will be handling book sales for the event. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Not become a member\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n More Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n The Marriage Trap Victoria Purman Don’t miss Victoira who will... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarta Writers – write it your way\n Stella Day Out\, Ballarat 5 November 2025 | As events... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – May 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Brian Chapman & Friends\, A Trio of Stunning Piano Quartets\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/tours-of-ballarat-mechanics-institute-september-2/ LOCATION:Soldiers Hill CBD | Pop-up\, 512 Macarthur Street\, Soldiers Hill\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:BMI Produced Event,Culture,Twilight Talks ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/tours-banner-draft-cropped.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20220907T170000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20220907T190000 DTSTAMP:20260506T200046 CREATED:20220601T234949Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220907T231755Z UID:19204-1662570000-1662577200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Twilight Talks 2022 | Season 2 | Session 1 DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Jane Cafarella \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n February 18\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$10 \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 \n \n \n \n Cleaved \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A story of loss\, legs and finding family \n \n \n \n \n \n \n It’s important that genuine stories such as this be published to show the extra-ordinary\, day-to-day courage of so-called ‘ordinary’ people - Highly recommended - Hazel Edwards OAM \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Former journalist for The Age and critically acclaimed Australian playwright and cartoonist\,\nJane Cafarella has written her memoir with great compassion and good humour. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cleaved is a story of coping with difference; of identity\, family\, and belonging. It is Jane’s story of growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema\, and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. It is honest\, moving and at times\, raw but at its core it is a beautifully crafted story of survival in a world of challenges and hard knocks. Jane Cafarella is\, and always has been\, a wonderful storyteller. Cleaved is her story. \n \n \n Cleaved | Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n Jane Cafarella is an Australian playwright and former journalist and cartoonist whose work has been widely published in Australia and overseas and whose plays have been performed nationally and internationally. Her cartoon archive is held at the State Library of Victoria. During her 10 years at Melbourne’s The Age newspaper\, Jane wrote and edited the popular Accent section\, which focused on women’s issues\, and for many years wrote the beloved columns A New Life Journal and Family Postcard. What she didn’t write about was growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema – and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. Written with compassion and humour\, Cleaved is an illuminating and moving story of coping with difference – and of two sisters\, foot soldiers in their parents marital war\, who lost and then found each other. Jane will be in conversation with Alisoun Downing. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lymphedema \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The World Health Organization estimates that up to 250 million people worldwide live with the incurable\, disfiguring\, progressive\, and little-known disease called lymphedema. In Jane Cafarella’s new memoir\, Cleaved\, the veil of secrecy surrounding lymphedema is stripped away as we meet a young girl in Australia living with an undiagnosed deformity. Ms. Cafarella weaves a stirring and universal coming-of-age story where the audience gets a rare glimpse of the impact of living with a disability while traversing the many roads on life’s journey. Lymphatic Education and Research Network (NYC) CEO\, William Repicci. I just finished it. I’m in bits. Such a beautiful story. Forgiveness\, the connections\, devoid of sentimentality\, yet the humanity – the flawed humans – have touched me. Thank you for a great read!  Susie Penrice Tyrie\, Singapore. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Enquiries:  Any event specific enquires should be direct to library@ballaratmi.org.au \n \n \n \n \n \n $10 per person plus booking fee & gst 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 Collins Booksellers\, Ballart on Lydiard will be handling book sales for the event. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Not become a member\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n More Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n The Marriage Trap Victoria Purman Don’t miss Victoira who will... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarta Writers – write it your way\n Stella Day Out\, Ballarat 5 November 2025 | As events... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – May 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Brian Chapman & Friends\, A Trio of Stunning Piano Quartets\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/twilight-talks-2022-season-2-session-1/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:BMI Produced Event,Culture,Twilight Talks ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/tt-banner-22-2-e1654128079849.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20220906T140000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20220906T150000 DTSTAMP:20260506T200046 CREATED:20220804T054836Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220804T055052Z UID:21278-1662472800-1662476400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Day Tour of the Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Jane Cafarella \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n February 18\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$10 \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 \n \n \n \n Cleaved \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A story of loss\, legs and finding family \n \n \n \n \n \n \n It’s important that genuine stories such as this be published to show the extra-ordinary\, day-to-day courage of so-called ‘ordinary’ people - Highly recommended - Hazel Edwards OAM \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Former journalist for The Age and critically acclaimed Australian playwright and cartoonist\,\nJane Cafarella has written her memoir with great compassion and good humour. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cleaved is a story of coping with difference; of identity\, family\, and belonging. It is Jane’s story of growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema\, and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. It is honest\, moving and at times\, raw but at its core it is a beautifully crafted story of survival in a world of challenges and hard knocks. Jane Cafarella is\, and always has been\, a wonderful storyteller. Cleaved is her story. \n \n \n Cleaved | Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n Jane Cafarella is an Australian playwright and former journalist and cartoonist whose work has been widely published in Australia and overseas and whose plays have been performed nationally and internationally. Her cartoon archive is held at the State Library of Victoria. During her 10 years at Melbourne’s The Age newspaper\, Jane wrote and edited the popular Accent section\, which focused on women’s issues\, and for many years wrote the beloved columns A New Life Journal and Family Postcard. What she didn’t write about was growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema – and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. Written with compassion and humour\, Cleaved is an illuminating and moving story of coping with difference – and of two sisters\, foot soldiers in their parents marital war\, who lost and then found each other. Jane will be in conversation with Alisoun Downing. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lymphedema \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The World Health Organization estimates that up to 250 million people worldwide live with the incurable\, disfiguring\, progressive\, and little-known disease called lymphedema. In Jane Cafarella’s new memoir\, Cleaved\, the veil of secrecy surrounding lymphedema is stripped away as we meet a young girl in Australia living with an undiagnosed deformity. Ms. Cafarella weaves a stirring and universal coming-of-age story where the audience gets a rare glimpse of the impact of living with a disability while traversing the many roads on life’s journey. Lymphatic Education and Research Network (NYC) CEO\, William Repicci. I just finished it. I’m in bits. Such a beautiful story. Forgiveness\, the connections\, devoid of sentimentality\, yet the humanity – the flawed humans – have touched me. Thank you for a great read!  Susie Penrice Tyrie\, Singapore. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Enquiries:  Any event specific enquires should be direct to library@ballaratmi.org.au \n \n \n \n \n \n $10 per person plus booking fee & gst 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 Collins Booksellers\, Ballart on Lydiard will be handling book sales for the event. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Not become a member\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n More Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n The Marriage Trap Victoria Purman Don’t miss Victoira who will... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarta Writers – write it your way\n Stella Day Out\, Ballarat 5 November 2025 | As events... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – May 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Brian Chapman & Friends\, A Trio of Stunning Piano Quartets\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/tours-of-ballarat-mechanics-institute-september-1/ LOCATION:Soldiers Hill CBD | Pop-up\, 512 Macarthur Street\, Soldiers Hill\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:BMI Produced Event,Culture,Twilight Talks ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/tours-banner-draft-cropped.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20220830T140000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20220830T150000 DTSTAMP:20260506T200046 CREATED:20220712T011044Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220719T223118Z UID:20271-1661868000-1661871600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Day Tour of the Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Jane Cafarella \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n February 18\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$10 \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 \n \n \n \n Cleaved \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A story of loss\, legs and finding family \n \n \n \n \n \n \n It’s important that genuine stories such as this be published to show the extra-ordinary\, day-to-day courage of so-called ‘ordinary’ people - Highly recommended - Hazel Edwards OAM \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Former journalist for The Age and critically acclaimed Australian playwright and cartoonist\,\nJane Cafarella has written her memoir with great compassion and good humour. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cleaved is a story of coping with difference; of identity\, family\, and belonging. It is Jane’s story of growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema\, and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. It is honest\, moving and at times\, raw but at its core it is a beautifully crafted story of survival in a world of challenges and hard knocks. Jane Cafarella is\, and always has been\, a wonderful storyteller. Cleaved is her story. \n \n \n Cleaved | Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n Jane Cafarella is an Australian playwright and former journalist and cartoonist whose work has been widely published in Australia and overseas and whose plays have been performed nationally and internationally. Her cartoon archive is held at the State Library of Victoria. During her 10 years at Melbourne’s The Age newspaper\, Jane wrote and edited the popular Accent section\, which focused on women’s issues\, and for many years wrote the beloved columns A New Life Journal and Family Postcard. What she didn’t write about was growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema – and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. Written with compassion and humour\, Cleaved is an illuminating and moving story of coping with difference – and of two sisters\, foot soldiers in their parents marital war\, who lost and then found each other. Jane will be in conversation with Alisoun Downing. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lymphedema \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The World Health Organization estimates that up to 250 million people worldwide live with the incurable\, disfiguring\, progressive\, and little-known disease called lymphedema. In Jane Cafarella’s new memoir\, Cleaved\, the veil of secrecy surrounding lymphedema is stripped away as we meet a young girl in Australia living with an undiagnosed deformity. Ms. Cafarella weaves a stirring and universal coming-of-age story where the audience gets a rare glimpse of the impact of living with a disability while traversing the many roads on life’s journey. Lymphatic Education and Research Network (NYC) CEO\, William Repicci. I just finished it. I’m in bits. Such a beautiful story. Forgiveness\, the connections\, devoid of sentimentality\, yet the humanity – the flawed humans – have touched me. Thank you for a great read!  Susie Penrice Tyrie\, Singapore. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Enquiries:  Any event specific enquires should be direct to library@ballaratmi.org.au \n \n \n \n \n \n $10 per person plus booking fee & gst 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 Collins Booksellers\, Ballart on Lydiard will be handling book sales for the event. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Not become a member\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n More Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n The Marriage Trap Victoria Purman Don’t miss Victoira who will... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarta Writers – write it your way\n Stella Day Out\, Ballarat 5 November 2025 | As events... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – May 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Brian Chapman & Friends\, A Trio of Stunning Piano Quartets\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/tours-of-ballarat-mechanics-institute-30-august-2022/ LOCATION:Soldiers Hill CBD | Pop-up\, 512 Macarthur Street\, Soldiers Hill\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:BMI Produced Event,Culture,Twilight Talks ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/tours-banner-draft-cropped.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20220830T103000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20220830T120000 DTSTAMP:20260506T200046 CREATED:20220731T224848Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220731T225133Z UID:20934-1661855400-1661860800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:The Reading Room | 30 August DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Jane Cafarella \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n February 18\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$10 \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 \n \n \n \n Cleaved \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A story of loss\, legs and finding family \n \n \n \n \n \n \n It’s important that genuine stories such as this be published to show the extra-ordinary\, day-to-day courage of so-called ‘ordinary’ people - Highly recommended - Hazel Edwards OAM \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Former journalist for The Age and critically acclaimed Australian playwright and cartoonist\,\nJane Cafarella has written her memoir with great compassion and good humour. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cleaved is a story of coping with difference; of identity\, family\, and belonging. It is Jane’s story of growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema\, and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. It is honest\, moving and at times\, raw but at its core it is a beautifully crafted story of survival in a world of challenges and hard knocks. Jane Cafarella is\, and always has been\, a wonderful storyteller. Cleaved is her story. \n \n \n Cleaved | Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n Jane Cafarella is an Australian playwright and former journalist and cartoonist whose work has been widely published in Australia and overseas and whose plays have been performed nationally and internationally. Her cartoon archive is held at the State Library of Victoria. During her 10 years at Melbourne’s The Age newspaper\, Jane wrote and edited the popular Accent section\, which focused on women’s issues\, and for many years wrote the beloved columns A New Life Journal and Family Postcard. What she didn’t write about was growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema – and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. Written with compassion and humour\, Cleaved is an illuminating and moving story of coping with difference – and of two sisters\, foot soldiers in their parents marital war\, who lost and then found each other. Jane will be in conversation with Alisoun Downing. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lymphedema \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The World Health Organization estimates that up to 250 million people worldwide live with the incurable\, disfiguring\, progressive\, and little-known disease called lymphedema. In Jane Cafarella’s new memoir\, Cleaved\, the veil of secrecy surrounding lymphedema is stripped away as we meet a young girl in Australia living with an undiagnosed deformity. Ms. Cafarella weaves a stirring and universal coming-of-age story where the audience gets a rare glimpse of the impact of living with a disability while traversing the many roads on life’s journey. Lymphatic Education and Research Network (NYC) CEO\, William Repicci. I just finished it. I’m in bits. Such a beautiful story. Forgiveness\, the connections\, devoid of sentimentality\, yet the humanity – the flawed humans – have touched me. Thank you for a great read!  Susie Penrice Tyrie\, Singapore. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Enquiries:  Any event specific enquires should be direct to library@ballaratmi.org.au \n \n \n \n \n \n $10 per person plus booking fee & gst 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 Collins Booksellers\, Ballart on Lydiard will be handling book sales for the event. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Not become a member\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n More Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n The Marriage Trap Victoria Purman Don’t miss Victoira who will... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarta Writers – write it your way\n Stella Day Out\, Ballarat 5 November 2025 | As events... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – May 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Brian Chapman & Friends\, A Trio of Stunning Piano Quartets\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/the-reading-room-30-august/ LOCATION:Soldiers Hill CBD | Pop-up\, 512 Macarthur Street\, Soldiers Hill\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Culture,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/the-reading-room-event-header-final-e1640069925423.png END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR