BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute - ECPv6.17.0//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:Australia/Melbourne BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+1100 TZOFFSETTO:+1000 TZNAME:AEST DTSTART:20240406T160000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+1000 TZOFFSETTO:+1100 TZNAME:AEDT DTSTART:20241005T160000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+1100 TZOFFSETTO:+1000 TZNAME:AEST DTSTART:20250405T160000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+1000 TZOFFSETTO:+1100 TZNAME:AEDT DTSTART:20251004T160000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+1100 TZOFFSETTO:+1000 TZNAME:AEST DTSTART:20260404T160000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+1000 TZOFFSETTO:+1100 TZNAME:AEDT DTSTART:20261003T160000 END:DAYLIGHT END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250415T140000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250415T150000 DTSTAMP:20250331T230249Z CREATED:20250106T033654Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250331T230249Z UID:60933-1744725600-1744729200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Day Tours of the Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute | Series 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 A Message from the Chair | BMI Board of Directors | August 2026\n Events Program Diversity I have heard from many members lately... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 21 HEARTS\, A Theatre 180 Production | Participant Feedback\n 21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Women of the Well\, 107 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\n Women of the Well  170 Sturt Street – pop in... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week | Lest Angels Weep by Phillipa Nefri Clark\n Lest Angels Weep Phillipa Nefri Clark Don’t miss Phillipa who... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/day-tours-jan-jun-2025/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Fundraiser,Tours ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/BMI-woodcut_bags-low-res-1kb-e1703024949185.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250416T173000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250416T183000 DTSTAMP:20250325T113132Z CREATED:20241219T044531Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250325T113132Z UID:60832-1744824600-1744828200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Twilight Talks 2025\, Season 2 | Connections to War from a Ballarat Perspective: Medals and Memorabilia 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 A Message from the Chair | BMI Board of Directors | August 2026\n Events Program Diversity I have heard from many members lately... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 21 HEARTS\, A Theatre 180 Production | Participant Feedback\n 21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Women of the Well\, 107 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\n Women of the Well  170 Sturt Street – pop in... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week | Lest Angels Weep by Phillipa Nefri Clark\n Lest Angels Weep Phillipa Nefri Clark Don’t miss Phillipa who... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/medals-and-memorabilia/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Fundraiser,Important Dates,Members,Talk,Twilight Talks ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/square-promo-individuals-medals-memoribilia.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250416T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250416T200000 DTSTAMP:20250331T234242Z CREATED:20250210T232526Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250331T234242Z UID:61892-1744830000-1744833600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Kadampa Meditation Series | Find Your Flow: A Buddhist Guide to an Effortless Life 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 A Message from the Chair | BMI Board of Directors | August 2026\n Events Program Diversity I have heard from many members lately... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 21 HEARTS\, A Theatre 180 Production | Participant Feedback\n 21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Women of the Well\, 107 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\n Women of the Well  170 Sturt Street – pop in... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week | Lest Angels Weep by Phillipa Nefri Clark\n Lest Angels Weep Phillipa Nefri Clark Don’t miss Phillipa who... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/kadampa-meditation-series-16-apr-25/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:kadampa ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/square-promo3.webp ORGANIZER;CN="Kadampa Meditation":MAILTO:info@kadampa.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250422T140000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250513T150000 DTSTAMP:20250321T015148Z CREATED:20250113T045602Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250321T015148Z UID:61150-1745330400-1747148400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Day Tours of the Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute | Australian Heritage Festival 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 A Message from the Chair | BMI Board of Directors | August 2026\n Events Program Diversity I have heard from many members lately... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 21 HEARTS\, A Theatre 180 Production | Participant Feedback\n 21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Women of the Well\, 107 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\n Women of the Well  170 Sturt Street – pop in... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week | Lest Angels Weep by Phillipa Nefri Clark\n Lest Angels Weep Phillipa Nefri Clark Don’t miss Phillipa who... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/day-tours-aust-heritage-fest/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Australian Heritage Festival,Festival,Fundraiser,Important Dates,Tours ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/BMI-woodcut_bags-low-res-1kb-e1703024949185.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250423T173000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250423T183000 DTSTAMP:20250325T113134Z CREATED:20241219T044445Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250325T113134Z UID:60830-1745429400-1745433000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Twilight Talks 2025\, Season 2 | Connections to War from a Ballarat Perspective: Feeling the Battlefield Spirits 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 A Message from the Chair | BMI Board of Directors | August 2026\n Events Program Diversity I have heard from many members lately... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 21 HEARTS\, A Theatre 180 Production | Participant Feedback\n 21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Women of the Well\, 107 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\n Women of the Well  170 Sturt Street – pop in... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week | Lest Angels Weep by Phillipa Nefri Clark\n Lest Angels Weep Phillipa Nefri Clark Don’t miss Phillipa who... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/stories-of-the-somme/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Australian Heritage Festival,Fundraiser,Important Dates,Members,Talk,Twilight Talks ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/square-promo-individuals-spirits.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250423T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250423T200000 DTSTAMP:20250331T234710Z CREATED:20250211T000334Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250331T234710Z UID:61899-1745434800-1745438400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Kadampa Meditation Series | Find Your Flow: A Buddhist Guide to an Effortless Life 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 A Message from the Chair | BMI Board of Directors | August 2026\n Events Program Diversity I have heard from many members lately... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 21 HEARTS\, A Theatre 180 Production | Participant Feedback\n 21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Women of the Well\, 107 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\n Women of the Well  170 Sturt Street – pop in... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week | Lest Angels Weep by Phillipa Nefri Clark\n Lest Angels Weep Phillipa Nefri Clark Don’t miss Phillipa who... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/kadampa-meditation-series-23-apr-25/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:kadampa ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/square-promo3.webp ORGANIZER;CN="Kadampa Meditation":MAILTO:info@kadampa.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250425T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250425T203000 DTSTAMP:20250423T003154Z CREATED:20250120T002601Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250423T003154Z UID:61331-1745609400-1745613000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Minerva's Secrets | Night Tour\, Australian Heritage Festival\, This Tour is now Fully Booked 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 A Message from the Chair | BMI Board of Directors | August 2026\n Events Program Diversity I have heard from many members lately... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 21 HEARTS\, A Theatre 180 Production | Participant Feedback\n 21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Women of the Well\, 107 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\n Women of the Well  170 Sturt Street – pop in... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week | Lest Angels Weep by Phillipa Nefri Clark\n Lest Angels Weep Phillipa Nefri Clark Don’t miss Phillipa who... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/minervas-secrets-night-tours-ahf-1/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Australian Heritage Festival,Fundraiser,Important Dates,Night 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:20250425T213000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250425T223000 DTSTAMP:20250423T003145Z CREATED:20250120T004138Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250423T003145Z UID:61339-1745616600-1745620200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Minerva's Secrets | Night Tour\, Australian Heritage Festival\, Tour 2 DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Jane Cafarella \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n February 18\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$10 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cleaved \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A story of loss\, legs and finding family \n \n \n \n \n \n \n It’s important that genuine stories such as this be published to show the extra-ordinary\, day-to-day courage of so-called ‘ordinary’ people - Highly recommended - Hazel Edwards OAM \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Former journalist for The Age and critically acclaimed Australian playwright and cartoonist\,\nJane Cafarella has written her memoir with great compassion and good humour. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cleaved is a story of coping with difference; of identity\, family\, and belonging. It is Jane’s story of growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema\, and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. It is honest\, moving and at times\, raw but at its core it is a beautifully crafted story of survival in a world of challenges and hard knocks. Jane Cafarella is\, and always has been\, a wonderful storyteller. Cleaved is her story. \n \n \n Cleaved | Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n Jane Cafarella is an Australian playwright and former journalist and cartoonist whose work has been widely published in Australia and overseas and whose plays have been performed nationally and internationally. Her cartoon archive is held at the State Library of Victoria. During her 10 years at Melbourne’s The Age newspaper\, Jane wrote and edited the popular Accent section\, which focused on women’s issues\, and for many years wrote the beloved columns A New Life Journal and Family Postcard. What she didn’t write about was growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema – and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. Written with compassion and humour\, Cleaved is an illuminating and moving story of coping with difference – and of two sisters\, foot soldiers in their parents marital war\, who lost and then found each other. Jane will be in conversation with Alisoun Downing. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lymphedema \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The World Health Organization estimates that up to 250 million people worldwide live with the incurable\, disfiguring\, progressive\, and little-known disease called lymphedema. In Jane Cafarella’s new memoir\, Cleaved\, the veil of secrecy surrounding lymphedema is stripped away as we meet a young girl in Australia living with an undiagnosed deformity. Ms. Cafarella weaves a stirring and universal coming-of-age story where the audience gets a rare glimpse of the impact of living with a disability while traversing the many roads on life’s journey. Lymphatic Education and Research Network (NYC) CEO\, William Repicci. I just finished it. I’m in bits. Such a beautiful story. Forgiveness\, the connections\, devoid of sentimentality\, yet the humanity – the flawed humans – have touched me. Thank you for a great read!  Susie Penrice Tyrie\, Singapore. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Enquiries:  Any event specific enquires should be direct to library@ballaratmi.org.au \n \n \n \n \n \n $10 per person plus booking fee & gst includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Collins Booksellers\, Ballart on Lydiard will be handling book sales for the event. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Not become a member\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n More Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Message from the Chair | BMI Board of Directors | August 2026\n Events Program Diversity I have heard from many members lately... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 21 HEARTS\, A Theatre 180 Production | Participant Feedback\n 21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Women of the Well\, 107 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\n Women of the Well  170 Sturt Street – pop in... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week | Lest Angels Weep by Phillipa Nefri Clark\n Lest Angels Weep Phillipa Nefri Clark Don’t miss Phillipa who... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/minervas-secrets-night-tours-ahf-2/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Australian Heritage Festival,Fundraiser,Important Dates,Night 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:20250426T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250426T200000 DTSTAMP:20250417T052656Z CREATED:20250417T051337Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250417T052656Z UID:64617-1745690400-1745697600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Beyond Limits | An Evening with Mick Marshall 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 A Message from the Chair | BMI Board of Directors | August 2026\n Events Program Diversity I have heard from many members lately... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 21 HEARTS\, A Theatre 180 Production | Participant Feedback\n 21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Women of the Well\, 107 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\n Women of the Well  170 Sturt Street – pop in... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week | Lest Angels Weep by Phillipa Nefri Clark\n Lest Angels Weep Phillipa Nefri Clark Don’t miss Phillipa who... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/mick-marshall/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Film,Talk ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/square-promo-mick-marshall.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250427T160000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250427T200000 DTSTAMP:20250321T162923Z CREATED:20241129T225635Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250321T162923Z UID:60381-1745769600-1745784000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Ash Grunwald at the BMI 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 A Message from the Chair | BMI Board of Directors | August 2026\n Events Program Diversity I have heard from many members lately... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 21 HEARTS\, A Theatre 180 Production | Participant Feedback\n 21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Women of the Well\, 107 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\n Women of the Well  170 Sturt Street – pop in... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week | Lest Angels Weep by Phillipa Nefri Clark\n Lest Angels Weep Phillipa Nefri Clark Don’t miss Phillipa who... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/ash-grunwald/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Live Music ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/ash-sq-promo.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250429T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250429T193000 DTSTAMP:20250321T045401Z CREATED:20250218T012450Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250321T045401Z UID:62175-1745949600-1745955000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with Shelley Burr 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 A Message from the Chair | BMI Board of Directors | August 2026\n Events Program Diversity I have heard from many members lately... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 21 HEARTS\, A Theatre 180 Production | Participant Feedback\n 21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Women of the Well\, 107 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\n Women of the Well  170 Sturt Street – pop in... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week | Lest Angels Weep by Phillipa Nefri Clark\n Lest Angels Weep Phillipa Nefri Clark Don’t miss Phillipa who... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/shelley-burr/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Fundraiser,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/square-promo-shelley-burr.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250430T173000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250430T183000 DTSTAMP:20250325T113126Z CREATED:20250108T020658Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250325T113126Z UID:60981-1746034200-1746037800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Twilight Talks 2025\, Season 2\, Special Event | The Life of Walter Withers 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 A Message from the Chair | BMI Board of Directors | August 2026\n Events Program Diversity I have heard from many members lately... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 21 HEARTS\, A Theatre 180 Production | Participant Feedback\n 21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Women of the Well\, 107 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\n Women of the Well  170 Sturt Street – pop in... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week | Lest Angels Weep by Phillipa Nefri Clark\n Lest Angels Weep Phillipa Nefri Clark Don’t miss Phillipa who... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/twilight-talks-life-of-walter-withers/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Australian Heritage Festival,Author Talk,Fundraiser,Important Dates,Library,Members,Talk,Twilight Talks ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/square-promo-david-rathgen-final.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250430T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250430T200000 DTSTAMP:20250331T235148Z CREATED:20250211T001230Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250331T235148Z UID:61901-1746039600-1746043200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Kadampa Meditation Series | Find Your Flow: A Buddhist Guide to an Effortless Life 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 A Message from the Chair | BMI Board of Directors | August 2026\n Events Program Diversity I have heard from many members lately... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 21 HEARTS\, A Theatre 180 Production | Participant Feedback\n 21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Women of the Well\, 107 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\n Women of the Well  170 Sturt Street – pop in... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week | Lest Angels Weep by Phillipa Nefri Clark\n Lest Angels Weep Phillipa Nefri Clark Don’t miss Phillipa who... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/kadampa-meditation-series-30-apr-25/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:kadampa ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/square-promo3.webp ORGANIZER;CN="Kadampa Meditation":MAILTO:info@kadampa.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250501T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250501T200000 DTSTAMP:20250410T031044Z CREATED:20241204T012140Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250410T031044Z UID:60465-1746122400-1746129600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with Natasha Lester 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 A Message from the Chair | BMI Board of Directors | August 2026\n Events Program Diversity I have heard from many members lately... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 21 HEARTS\, A Theatre 180 Production | Participant Feedback\n 21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Women of the Well\, 107 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\n Women of the Well  170 Sturt Street – pop in... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week | Lest Angels Weep by Phillipa Nefri Clark\n Lest Angels Weep Phillipa Nefri Clark Don’t miss Phillipa who... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/natasha-lester/ LOCATION:VIC CATEGORIES:Australian Heritage Festival,Author Talk,Fundraiser,Important Dates,Library,Victorian Seniors Festival ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/sq-promo-natasha-lester-1-may.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250504T140000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250504T160000 DTSTAMP:20250408T003645Z CREATED:20250403T014922Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250408T003645Z UID:64247-1746367200-1746374400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:E A Gleeson\, Book Launch - The Deepest Thing: A Poetic Memoir 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 A Message from the Chair | BMI Board of Directors | August 2026\n Events Program Diversity I have heard from many members lately... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 21 HEARTS\, A Theatre 180 Production | Participant Feedback\n 21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Women of the Well\, 107 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\n Women of the Well  170 Sturt Street – pop in... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week | Lest Angels Weep by Phillipa Nefri Clark\n Lest Angels Weep Phillipa Nefri Clark Don’t miss Phillipa who... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/anne-gleeson/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/square-promo-anne-gleeson-v2.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250507T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250507T193000 DTSTAMP:20250502T010026Z CREATED:20250401T040022Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250502T010026Z UID:64144-1746640800-1746646200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with Mimi Kwa 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 A Message from the Chair | BMI Board of Directors | August 2026\n Events Program Diversity I have heard from many members lately... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 21 HEARTS\, A Theatre 180 Production | Participant Feedback\n 21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Women of the Well\, 107 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\n Women of the Well  170 Sturt Street – pop in... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week | Lest Angels Weep by Phillipa Nefri Clark\n Lest Angels Weep Phillipa Nefri Clark Don’t miss Phillipa who... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/mimi-kwa/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Fundraiser,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/square-promo-mimi-kwa-v2.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250507T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250507T200000 DTSTAMP:20250331T235229Z CREATED:20250211T002737Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250331T235229Z UID:61903-1746644400-1746648000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Kadampa Meditation Series | Find Your Flow: A Buddhist Guide to an Effortless Life 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 A Message from the Chair | BMI Board of Directors | August 2026\n Events Program Diversity I have heard from many members lately... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 21 HEARTS\, A Theatre 180 Production | Participant Feedback\n 21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Women of the Well\, 107 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\n Women of the Well  170 Sturt Street – pop in... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week | Lest Angels Weep by Phillipa Nefri Clark\n Lest Angels Weep Phillipa Nefri Clark Don’t miss Phillipa who... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/kadampa-meditation-series-7-may-25/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:kadampa ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/square-promo3.webp ORGANIZER;CN="Kadampa Meditation":MAILTO:info@kadampa.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250508T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250508T210000 DTSTAMP:20250321T062716Z CREATED:20250212T023140Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250321T062716Z UID:61967-1746732600-1746738000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Ballarat Film Society | Bicycle Thieves (Ladri di Biciclette) 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 A Message from the Chair | BMI Board of Directors | August 2026\n Events Program Diversity I have heard from many members lately... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 21 HEARTS\, A Theatre 180 Production | Participant Feedback\n 21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Women of the Well\, 107 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\n Women of the Well  170 Sturt Street – pop in... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week | Lest Angels Weep by Phillipa Nefri Clark\n Lest Angels Weep Phillipa Nefri Clark Don’t miss Phillipa who... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/bfs-bicycle-thieves/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Ballarat Film Society,Externally Produced Event,Film ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/sqaure-promo-bfs2.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250509T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250509T190000 DTSTAMP:20250417T041147Z CREATED:20250415T035815Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250417T041147Z UID:64500-1746813600-1746817200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Seedpod Ballarat 2025 | Gemma Cavoli - 'Oubliette' | Artist in Residence 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 A Message from the Chair | BMI Board of Directors | August 2026\n Events Program Diversity I have heard from many members lately... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 21 HEARTS\, A Theatre 180 Production | Participant Feedback\n 21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Women of the Well\, 107 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\n Women of the Well  170 Sturt Street – pop in... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week | Lest Angels Weep by Phillipa Nefri Clark\n Lest Angels Weep Phillipa Nefri Clark Don’t miss Phillipa who... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/seedpod-oubliette/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Artist in Residence,Australian Heritage Festival,Theatre Production ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/oubliette-sq-promo-v2.webp ORGANIZER;CN="Punctum":MAILTO:hq@punctum.com.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250509T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250509T210000 DTSTAMP:20250430T042710Z CREATED:20250318T025201Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250430T042710Z UID:62953-1746819000-1746824400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:The Amazing Lucas Girls by acclaimed playwright Cate Whittaker 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 A Message from the Chair | BMI Board of Directors | August 2026\n Events Program Diversity I have heard from many members lately... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 21 HEARTS\, A Theatre 180 Production | Participant Feedback\n 21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Women of the Well\, 107 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\n Women of the Well  170 Sturt Street – pop in... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week | Lest Angels Weep by Phillipa Nefri Clark\n Lest Angels Weep Phillipa Nefri Clark Don’t miss Phillipa who... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/the-amazing-lucas-girls/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Australian Heritage Festival,Theatre Production ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/A-Hs-LG-hero320-promo-square.webp ORGANIZER;CN="Lost Voices":MAILTO:lostvoicesnsw.au@gmail.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250510T140000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250510T150000 DTSTAMP:20250417T041141Z CREATED:20250415T235811Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250417T041141Z UID:64553-1746885600-1746889200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Seedpod Ballarat 2025 | Gemma Cavoli - 'Oubliette' | Artist in Residence 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 A Message from the Chair | BMI Board of Directors | August 2026\n Events Program Diversity I have heard from many members lately... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 21 HEARTS\, A Theatre 180 Production | Participant Feedback\n 21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Women of the Well\, 107 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\n Women of the Well  170 Sturt Street – pop in... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week | Lest Angels Weep by Phillipa Nefri Clark\n Lest Angels Weep Phillipa Nefri Clark Don’t miss Phillipa who... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/seedpod-oubliette-session-2/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Artist in Residence,Australian Heritage Festival,Theatre Production ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/oubliette-sq-promo-v2.webp ORGANIZER;CN="Punctum":MAILTO:hq@punctum.com.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250510T143000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250510T160000 DTSTAMP:20250430T042629Z CREATED:20250320T034846Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250430T042629Z UID:63030-1746887400-1746892800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:The Amazing Lucas Girls by acclaimed playwright Cate Whittaker - Session 2 DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Jane Cafarella \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n February 18\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$10 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cleaved \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A story of loss\, legs and finding family \n \n \n \n \n \n \n It’s important that genuine stories such as this be published to show the extra-ordinary\, day-to-day courage of so-called ‘ordinary’ people - Highly recommended - Hazel Edwards OAM \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Former journalist for The Age and critically acclaimed Australian playwright and cartoonist\,\nJane Cafarella has written her memoir with great compassion and good humour. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cleaved is a story of coping with difference; of identity\, family\, and belonging. It is Jane’s story of growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema\, and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. It is honest\, moving and at times\, raw but at its core it is a beautifully crafted story of survival in a world of challenges and hard knocks. Jane Cafarella is\, and always has been\, a wonderful storyteller. Cleaved is her story. \n \n \n Cleaved | Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n Jane Cafarella is an Australian playwright and former journalist and cartoonist whose work has been widely published in Australia and overseas and whose plays have been performed nationally and internationally. Her cartoon archive is held at the State Library of Victoria. During her 10 years at Melbourne’s The Age newspaper\, Jane wrote and edited the popular Accent section\, which focused on women’s issues\, and for many years wrote the beloved columns A New Life Journal and Family Postcard. What she didn’t write about was growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema – and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. Written with compassion and humour\, Cleaved is an illuminating and moving story of coping with difference – and of two sisters\, foot soldiers in their parents marital war\, who lost and then found each other. Jane will be in conversation with Alisoun Downing. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lymphedema \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The World Health Organization estimates that up to 250 million people worldwide live with the incurable\, disfiguring\, progressive\, and little-known disease called lymphedema. In Jane Cafarella’s new memoir\, Cleaved\, the veil of secrecy surrounding lymphedema is stripped away as we meet a young girl in Australia living with an undiagnosed deformity. Ms. Cafarella weaves a stirring and universal coming-of-age story where the audience gets a rare glimpse of the impact of living with a disability while traversing the many roads on life’s journey. Lymphatic Education and Research Network (NYC) CEO\, William Repicci. I just finished it. I’m in bits. Such a beautiful story. Forgiveness\, the connections\, devoid of sentimentality\, yet the humanity – the flawed humans – have touched me. Thank you for a great read!  Susie Penrice Tyrie\, Singapore. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Enquiries:  Any event specific enquires should be direct to library@ballaratmi.org.au \n \n \n \n \n \n $10 per person plus booking fee & gst includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Collins Booksellers\, Ballart on Lydiard will be handling book sales for the event. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Not become a member\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n More Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Message from the Chair | BMI Board of Directors | August 2026\n Events Program Diversity I have heard from many members lately... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 21 HEARTS\, A Theatre 180 Production | Participant Feedback\n 21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Women of the Well\, 107 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\n Women of the Well  170 Sturt Street – pop in... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week | Lest Angels Weep by Phillipa Nefri Clark\n Lest Angels Weep Phillipa Nefri Clark Don’t miss Phillipa who... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/the-amazing-lucas-girls-2/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Australian Heritage Festival,Theatre Production ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/A-Hs-LG-hero320-promo-square.webp ORGANIZER;CN="Lost Voices":MAILTO:lostvoicesnsw.au@gmail.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250510T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250510T210000 DTSTAMP:20250430T042820Z CREATED:20250320T035214Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250430T042820Z UID:63032-1746905400-1746910800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:The Amazing Lucas Girls by acclaimed playwright Cate Whittaker - Session 3 DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Jane Cafarella \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n February 18\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$10 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cleaved \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A story of loss\, legs and finding family \n \n \n \n \n \n \n It’s important that genuine stories such as this be published to show the extra-ordinary\, day-to-day courage of so-called ‘ordinary’ people - Highly recommended - Hazel Edwards OAM \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Former journalist for The Age and critically acclaimed Australian playwright and cartoonist\,\nJane Cafarella has written her memoir with great compassion and good humour. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cleaved is a story of coping with difference; of identity\, family\, and belonging. It is Jane’s story of growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema\, and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. It is honest\, moving and at times\, raw but at its core it is a beautifully crafted story of survival in a world of challenges and hard knocks. Jane Cafarella is\, and always has been\, a wonderful storyteller. Cleaved is her story. \n \n \n Cleaved | Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n Jane Cafarella is an Australian playwright and former journalist and cartoonist whose work has been widely published in Australia and overseas and whose plays have been performed nationally and internationally. Her cartoon archive is held at the State Library of Victoria. During her 10 years at Melbourne’s The Age newspaper\, Jane wrote and edited the popular Accent section\, which focused on women’s issues\, and for many years wrote the beloved columns A New Life Journal and Family Postcard. What she didn’t write about was growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema – and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. Written with compassion and humour\, Cleaved is an illuminating and moving story of coping with difference – and of two sisters\, foot soldiers in their parents marital war\, who lost and then found each other. Jane will be in conversation with Alisoun Downing. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lymphedema \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The World Health Organization estimates that up to 250 million people worldwide live with the incurable\, disfiguring\, progressive\, and little-known disease called lymphedema. In Jane Cafarella’s new memoir\, Cleaved\, the veil of secrecy surrounding lymphedema is stripped away as we meet a young girl in Australia living with an undiagnosed deformity. Ms. Cafarella weaves a stirring and universal coming-of-age story where the audience gets a rare glimpse of the impact of living with a disability while traversing the many roads on life’s journey. Lymphatic Education and Research Network (NYC) CEO\, William Repicci. I just finished it. I’m in bits. Such a beautiful story. Forgiveness\, the connections\, devoid of sentimentality\, yet the humanity – the flawed humans – have touched me. Thank you for a great read!  Susie Penrice Tyrie\, Singapore. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Enquiries:  Any event specific enquires should be direct to library@ballaratmi.org.au \n \n \n \n \n \n $10 per person plus booking fee & gst includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Collins Booksellers\, Ballart on Lydiard will be handling book sales for the event. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Not become a member\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n More Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Message from the Chair | BMI Board of Directors | August 2026\n Events Program Diversity I have heard from many members lately... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 21 HEARTS\, A Theatre 180 Production | Participant Feedback\n 21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Women of the Well\, 107 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\n Women of the Well  170 Sturt Street – pop in... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week | Lest Angels Weep by Phillipa Nefri Clark\n Lest Angels Weep Phillipa Nefri Clark Don’t miss Phillipa who... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/the-amazing-lucas-girls-3/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Australian Heritage Festival,Theatre,Theatre Production ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/A-Hs-LG-hero320-promo-square.webp ORGANIZER;CN="Lost Voices":MAILTO:lostvoicesnsw.au@gmail.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250514T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250514T193000 DTSTAMP:20250321T024750Z CREATED:20250304T015324Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250321T024750Z UID:62426-1747245600-1747251000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with Darcy Tindale 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 A Message from the Chair | BMI Board of Directors | August 2026\n Events Program Diversity I have heard from many members lately... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 21 HEARTS\, A Theatre 180 Production | Participant Feedback\n 21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Women of the Well\, 107 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\n Women of the Well  170 Sturt Street – pop in... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week | Lest Angels Weep by Phillipa Nefri Clark\n Lest Angels Weep Phillipa Nefri Clark Don’t miss Phillipa who... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/darcy-tindale/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Fundraiser,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/darcy-tindale-sq-promp.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250514T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250514T200000 DTSTAMP:20250408T022228Z CREATED:20250211T002910Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250408T022228Z UID:61905-1747249200-1747252800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Kadampa Meditation Series | Find Your Flow: A Buddhist Guide to an Effortless Life 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 A Message from the Chair | BMI Board of Directors | August 2026\n Events Program Diversity I have heard from many members lately... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 21 HEARTS\, A Theatre 180 Production | Participant Feedback\n 21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Women of the Well\, 107 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\n Women of the Well  170 Sturt Street – pop in... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week | Lest Angels Weep by Phillipa Nefri Clark\n Lest Angels Weep Phillipa Nefri Clark Don’t miss Phillipa who... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/kadampa-meditation-series-14-may-25/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:kadampa ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/square-promo3.webp ORGANIZER;CN="Kadampa Meditation":MAILTO:info@kadampa.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250516T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250516T203000 DTSTAMP:20250515T222312Z CREATED:20250210T002600Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250515T222312Z UID:61825-1747423800-1747427400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Minerva's Secrets | Night Tour\, Ballarat Heritage Festival - NOW FULLY BOOKED 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 A Message from the Chair | BMI Board of Directors | August 2026\n Events Program Diversity I have heard from many members lately... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 21 HEARTS\, A Theatre 180 Production | Participant Feedback\n 21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Women of the Well\, 107 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\n Women of the Well  170 Sturt Street – pop in... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week | Lest Angels Weep by Phillipa Nefri Clark\n Lest Angels Weep Phillipa Nefri Clark Don’t miss Phillipa who... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/minervas-secrets-night-tours-bhf-16-may-1/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Ballarat Heritage Festival,Fundraiser,Important Dates,Night 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:20250516T213000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250516T223000 DTSTAMP:20250515T222405Z CREATED:20250210T001340Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250515T222405Z UID:61817-1747431000-1747434600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Minerva's Secrets | Night Tour\, Ballarat Heritage Festival - NOW FULLY BOOKED 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 A Message from the Chair | BMI Board of Directors | August 2026\n Events Program Diversity I have heard from many members lately... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 21 HEARTS\, A Theatre 180 Production | Participant Feedback\n 21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Women of the Well\, 107 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\n Women of the Well  170 Sturt Street – pop in... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week | Lest Angels Weep by Phillipa Nefri Clark\n Lest Angels Weep Phillipa Nefri Clark Don’t miss Phillipa who... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/minervas-secrets-night-tours-bhf-16-may-2/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Ballarat Heritage Festival,Fundraiser,Important Dates,Night 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:20250517T183000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250517T230000 DTSTAMP:20250508T064422Z CREATED:20250114T223422Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250508T064422Z UID:61199-1747506600-1747522800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Dame Nellie Melba Birthday Dinner - This event has now been CANCELLED. DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Jane Cafarella \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n February 18\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$10 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cleaved \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A story of loss\, legs and finding family \n \n \n \n \n \n \n It’s important that genuine stories such as this be published to show the extra-ordinary\, day-to-day courage of so-called ‘ordinary’ people - Highly recommended - Hazel Edwards OAM \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Former journalist for The Age and critically acclaimed Australian playwright and cartoonist\,\nJane Cafarella has written her memoir with great compassion and good humour. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cleaved is a story of coping with difference; of identity\, family\, and belonging. It is Jane’s story of growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema\, and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. It is honest\, moving and at times\, raw but at its core it is a beautifully crafted story of survival in a world of challenges and hard knocks. Jane Cafarella is\, and always has been\, a wonderful storyteller. Cleaved is her story. \n \n \n Cleaved | Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jane Cafarella\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n Jane Cafarella is an Australian playwright and former journalist and cartoonist whose work has been widely published in Australia and overseas and whose plays have been performed nationally and internationally. Her cartoon archive is held at the State Library of Victoria. During her 10 years at Melbourne’s The Age newspaper\, Jane wrote and edited the popular Accent section\, which focused on women’s issues\, and for many years wrote the beloved columns A New Life Journal and Family Postcard. What she didn’t write about was growing up with Milroy’s disease\, a rare form of the incurable swelling disease lymphoedema – and how she came to be estranged from her family of origin for most of her adult life. Written with compassion and humour\, Cleaved is an illuminating and moving story of coping with difference – and of two sisters\, foot soldiers in their parents marital war\, who lost and then found each other. Jane will be in conversation with Alisoun Downing. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lymphedema \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The World Health Organization estimates that up to 250 million people worldwide live with the incurable\, disfiguring\, progressive\, and little-known disease called lymphedema. In Jane Cafarella’s new memoir\, Cleaved\, the veil of secrecy surrounding lymphedema is stripped away as we meet a young girl in Australia living with an undiagnosed deformity. Ms. Cafarella weaves a stirring and universal coming-of-age story where the audience gets a rare glimpse of the impact of living with a disability while traversing the many roads on life’s journey. Lymphatic Education and Research Network (NYC) CEO\, William Repicci. I just finished it. I’m in bits. Such a beautiful story. Forgiveness\, the connections\, devoid of sentimentality\, yet the humanity – the flawed humans – have touched me. Thank you for a great read!  Susie Penrice Tyrie\, Singapore. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Enquiries:  Any event specific enquires should be direct to library@ballaratmi.org.au \n \n \n \n \n \n $10 per person plus booking fee & gst includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Collins Booksellers\, Ballart on Lydiard will be handling book sales for the event. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Not become a member\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n More Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Message from the Chair | BMI Board of Directors | August 2026\n Events Program Diversity I have heard from many members lately... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 21 HEARTS\, A Theatre 180 Production | Participant Feedback\n 21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Women of the Well\, 107 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\n Women of the Well  170 Sturt Street – pop in... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week | Lest Angels Weep by Phillipa Nefri Clark\n Lest Angels Weep Phillipa Nefri Clark Don’t miss Phillipa who... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/melba-opera-trust-dinner/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Art programs,Australian Heritage Festival,Ballarat Heritage Festival,Important Dates,Live Music,Theatre Production ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/about-dame-nellie-melba.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250518T140000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250518T160000 DTSTAMP:20250515T060728Z CREATED:20250114T215837Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250515T060728Z UID:61189-1747576800-1747584000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Dame Nellie Melba Celebration Performance 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 A Message from the Chair | BMI Board of Directors | August 2026\n Events Program Diversity I have heard from many members lately... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 21 HEARTS\, A Theatre 180 Production | Participant Feedback\n 21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Women of the Well\, 107 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\n Women of the Well  170 Sturt Street – pop in... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week | Lest Angels Weep by Phillipa Nefri Clark\n Lest Angels Weep Phillipa Nefri Clark Don’t miss Phillipa who... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/melba-opera-trust/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Art programs,Australian Heritage Festival,Ballarat Heritage Festival,Classical Music,Important Dates,Live Music,Theatre Production ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/mot-performance-promo-sq.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250518T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250518T203000 DTSTAMP:20250515T223444Z CREATED:20250210T002829Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250515T223444Z UID:61827-1747596600-1747600200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Minerva's Secrets | Night Tour\, Ballarat Heritage Festival 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 A Message from the Chair | BMI Board of Directors | August 2026\n Events Program Diversity I have heard from many members lately... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 21 HEARTS\, A Theatre 180 Production | Participant Feedback\n 21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Women of the Well\, 107 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\n Women of the Well  170 Sturt Street – pop in... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week | Lest Angels Weep by Phillipa Nefri Clark\n Lest Angels Weep Phillipa Nefri Clark Don’t miss Phillipa who... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/minervas-secrets-night-tours-bhf-18-may-1/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Ballarat Heritage Festival,Fundraiser,Important Dates,Night Tours ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/received_908662326866361-e1708918930337.jpeg END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR