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:20250405T160000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+1000 TZOFFSETTO:+1100 TZNAME:AEDT DTSTART:20251004T160000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+1100 TZOFFSETTO:+1000 TZNAME:AEST DTSTART:20260404T160000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+1000 TZOFFSETTO:+1100 TZNAME:AEDT DTSTART:20261003T160000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+1100 TZOFFSETTO:+1000 TZNAME:AEST DTSTART:20270403T160000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+1000 TZOFFSETTO:+1100 TZNAME:AEDT DTSTART:20271002T160000 END:DAYLIGHT END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260519T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260519T203000 DTSTAMP:20260507T190645 CREATED:20260414T044444Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260418T054257Z UID:72157-1779219000-1779222600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Lantern Vaults | Special Preview 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 Victoria 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/lantern-vaults-preview/ LOCATION:The Basement\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Art programs,Ballarat Heritage Festival,Important Dates ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/sq-promo-events-lantern-vaults.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260519T210000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260519T220000 DTSTAMP:20260507T190645 CREATED:20260310T002124Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T044437Z UID:71139-1779224400-1779228000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Minerva's Secrets | Night Tour 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 Victoria 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/minervas-secrets-night-tour-18-may-26-2/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Australian Heritage Festival,Important Dates,Night Tours,Tours ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/received_265285705882698-e1708919200874.jpeg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260521T100000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260524T160000 DTSTAMP:20260507T190645 CREATED:20260418T053218Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260425T062535Z UID:72320-1779357600-1779638400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Lantern Vaults 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 Victoria 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/lantern-vaults/ LOCATION:BMI – Multiple Spaces\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Art programs,Ballarat Heritage Festival,Important Dates ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/sq-promo-events-lantern-vaults.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260521T113000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260524T121500 DTSTAMP:20260507T190645 CREATED:20260421T025952Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260507T043547Z UID:72387-1779363000-1779624900@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Ballarat Heritage Festival - Tours 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 Victoria 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/ballarat-heritage-festival-tours/ LOCATION:Meet in the Foyer\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Australia CATEGORIES:Ballarat Heritage Festival,Important Dates,Tours ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/sq-promo-day-tours.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260522T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260522T203000 DTSTAMP:20260507T190645 CREATED:20260318T041021Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260413T065647Z UID:71379-1779476400-1779481800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Panic from the Sky: A Call of Cthulhu Advenure 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 Victoria 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/panic-in-the-sky/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Ballarat Heritage Festival,Theatre Production ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Ufo-picture-only-for-ATDW-Tales-from-Rat-City-David-Waldron.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260527T183000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260527T200000 DTSTAMP:20260507T190645 CREATED:20260313T002934Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T035212Z UID:71249-1779906600-1779912000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with Amanda Hampson 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 Victoria 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/amanda-hampson/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/sp-promo-talks-amanda-hampson.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260611T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260611T210000 DTSTAMP:20260507T190645 CREATED:20260129T043042Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T035120Z UID:70415-1781206200-1781211600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Ballarat Film Society | Monster 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 Victoria 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/ballarat-film-society-monster/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Ballarat Film Society,Film ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/monster-sq-promo.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260612T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260612T200000 DTSTAMP:20260507T190645 CREATED:20260310T005733Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T035038Z UID:71141-1781290800-1781294400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Minerva's Secrets | Night Tour 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 Victoria 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/minervas-secrets-night-tour-12-jun-26/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Important Dates,Night Tours,Tours ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/received_908662326866361-e1708918930337.jpeg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260612T210000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260612T220000 DTSTAMP:20260507T190645 CREATED:20260310T010115Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T035008Z UID:71143-1781298000-1781301600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Minerva's Secrets | Night Tour 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 Victoria 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/minervas-secrets-night-tour-12-jun-26-2/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Important Dates,Night Tours,Tours ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/received_265285705882698-e1708919200874.jpeg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260617T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260617T193000 DTSTAMP:20260507T190645 CREATED:20260506T023026Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260507T043433Z UID:72763-1781719200-1781724600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with Anthea Hodgson 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 Victoria 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-anthea-hodgson/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/sp-promo-talks-anthea-hodgson.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260623T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260623T193000 DTSTAMP:20260507T190645 CREATED:20260313T005434Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T034824Z UID:71257-1782237600-1782243000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with Mark Smith 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 Victoria 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/mark-smith-2/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/sp-promo-talks-mark-smith.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260701T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260701T193000 DTSTAMP:20260507T190645 CREATED:20260506T041811Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260507T043318Z UID:72778-1782928800-1782934200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with Sherryl Clark 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 Victoria 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-sherryl-clark/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/sp-promo-talks-sherryl-clark.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260703T200000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260703T211500 DTSTAMP:20260507T190645 CREATED:20260505T235334Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260507T043235Z UID:72745-1783108800-1783113300@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Joscho Stephan Trio: Gypsy Jazz Virtuosos 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 Victoria 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/joscho-stephan-trio-gypsy-jazz-virtuosos/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Live Music ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/20211029_joscho_stephan_trio-c-pollert.webp ORGANIZER;CN="Concerts Australia":MAILTO:michael@concertsaustralia.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260704T100000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260704T110000 DTSTAMP:20260507T190645 CREATED:20260413T230016Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260410T004508Z UID:72002-1783159200-1783162800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Whistle and Trick 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 Victoria 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/whistle-and-trick/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Comedy,Live Music,Theatre Production ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/WT-Portrait-promo-copy.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260710T110000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260710T125000 DTSTAMP:20260507T190645 CREATED:20250930T001641Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260430T050116Z UID:67766-1783681200-1783687800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner Brooke\, a THEATRE 180 production | SOLD OUT 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 Victoria 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/21-hearts/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Theatre Production ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/sq-promo-21-hearts.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260710T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260710T205000 DTSTAMP:20260507T190645 CREATED:20251001T031523Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260430T051020Z UID:67817-1783710000-1783716600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner Brooke\, a THEATRE 180 production | SOLD OUT 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 Victoria 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/21-hearts-2/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Theatre Production ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/sq-promo-21-hearts.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260711T110000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260711T125000 DTSTAMP:20260507T190645 CREATED:20260212T045959Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260430T050826Z UID:70689-1783767600-1783774200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner Brooke\, a THEATRE 180 production | SOLD OUT 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 Victoria 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/21-hearts-vivian-bulllwinkel-and-the-nurses-of-the-vyner-brooke-a-theatre-180-production-saturday/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Theatre Production ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/sq-promo-21-hearts.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260711T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260711T205000 DTSTAMP:20260507T190645 CREATED:20260430T044744Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260430T050650Z UID:72672-1783796400-1783803000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner Brooke\, a THEATRE 180 production 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 Victoria 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/21-hearts-vivian-bullwinkel-and-the-nurses-of-the-vyner-brooke-a-theatre-180-production/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Theatre Production ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/sq-promo-21-hearts.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260714T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260714T213000 DTSTAMP:20260507T190645 CREATED:20260427T070837Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260504T055234Z UID:72579-1784057400-1784064600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Grigoryan Brothers - A Boy Called Sailboat 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 Victoria 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/grigoryan-brothers-a-boy-called-sailboat/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Film,Live Music ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/sq-promo-a-boy-called-steamboat-v4.png.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260715T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260715T193000 DTSTAMP:20260507T190645 CREATED:20260313T024204Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T034457Z UID:71265-1784138400-1784143800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with Benita Bensch 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 Victoria 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/benita-bensch/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/sp-promo-talks-benita-bensch-v2.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260716T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260716T210000 DTSTAMP:20260507T190645 CREATED:20260129T044738Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T034341Z UID:70423-1784230200-1784235600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Ballarat Film Society | Journey Home 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 Victoria 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/ballarat-film-society-journey-home/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Ballarat Film Society,Film ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/journey-home-sq-promo.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260720T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260720T193000 DTSTAMP:20260507T190645 CREATED:20260420T042351Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260507T043115Z UID:72345-1784570400-1784575800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with Petronella McGovern 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 Victoria 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/petronella-mcgovern/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/sp-promo-talks-petronella-mcgovern-v3.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260723T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260723T210000 DTSTAMP:20260507T190645 CREATED:20260223T045111Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T034312Z UID:70806-1784833200-1784840400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:God of Carnage\, A Ballarat National Theatre Production 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 Victoria 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/god-of-carnage-23-july/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Ballarat National Theatre,Theatre Production ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/God-of-Carnage-BMI-Square.webp ORGANIZER;CN="Ballarat National Theatre":MAILTO:contact@bnt.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260724T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260724T210000 DTSTAMP:20260507T190645 CREATED:20260223T053244Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T034253Z UID:70815-1784919600-1784926800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:God of Carnage\, A Ballarat National Theatre Production 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 Victoria 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/god-of-carnage-24-july/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Ballarat National Theatre,Theatre Production ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/God-of-Carnage-BMI-Square.webp ORGANIZER;CN="Ballarat National Theatre":MAILTO:contact@bnt.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260725T140000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260725T160000 DTSTAMP:20260507T190645 CREATED:20260223T053557Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T034233Z UID:70819-1784988000-1784995200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:God of Carnage\, A Ballarat National Theatre Production 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 Victoria 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/god-of-carnage-25-july/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Ballarat National Theatre,Theatre Production ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/God-of-Carnage-BMI-Square.webp ORGANIZER;CN="Ballarat National Theatre":MAILTO:contact@bnt.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260725T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260725T210000 DTSTAMP:20260507T190645 CREATED:20260223T053430Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T034212Z UID:70817-1785006000-1785013200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:God of Carnage\, A Ballarat National Theatre Production 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 Victoria 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/god-of-carnage-25-july-2/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Ballarat National Theatre,Theatre Production ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/God-of-Carnage-BMI-Square.webp ORGANIZER;CN="Ballarat National Theatre":MAILTO:contact@bnt.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260729T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260729T193000 DTSTAMP:20260507T190645 CREATED:20260416T050939Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260417T012750Z UID:72260-1785348000-1785353400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with Phillipa Nefri Clark 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 Victoria 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/phillipa-nefri-clark/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/sp-promo-talks-v2.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260807T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260807T204000 DTSTAMP:20260507T190645 CREATED:20251205T035734Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T034032Z UID:69366-1786131000-1786135200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Blake Pavey: A Bit Scared 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 Victoria 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/blake-pavey-a-bit-scared/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Comedy ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/sq-promo-blake-pavey.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="KEG Touring":MAILTO:Contact@kegtouring.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260812T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260812T193000 DTSTAMP:20260507T190645 CREATED:20260324T234500Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T033956Z UID:71535-1786557600-1786563000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with Sophie Green 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 Victoria 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/sophie-green/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/sp-promo-talks-sophie-green.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260813T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260813T210000 DTSTAMP:20260507T190645 CREATED:20260129T051107Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T033912Z UID:70430-1786649400-1786654800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Ballarat Film Society | The Blue Trail 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 Victoria 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/ballarat-film-society-the-blue-trail/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Ballarat Film Society,Film ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/the-blue-trail-sq-promo.jpg END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR