BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute - ECPv6.17.1//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-WR-CALNAME:Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:Australia/Melbourne BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+1100 TZOFFSETTO:+1000 TZNAME:AEST DTSTART:20250405T160000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+1000 TZOFFSETTO:+1100 TZNAME:AEDT DTSTART:20251004T160000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+1100 TZOFFSETTO:+1000 TZNAME:AEST DTSTART:20260404T160000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+1000 TZOFFSETTO:+1100 TZNAME:AEDT DTSTART:20261003T160000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+1100 TZOFFSETTO:+1000 TZNAME:AEST DTSTART:20270403T160000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+1000 TZOFFSETTO:+1100 TZNAME:AEDT DTSTART:20271002T160000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+1100 TZOFFSETTO:+1000 TZNAME:AEST DTSTART:20280401T160000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+1000 TZOFFSETTO:+1100 TZNAME:AEDT DTSTART:20280930T160000 END:DAYLIGHT END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260826T184500 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260826T223000 DTSTAMP:20260716T055255Z CREATED:20260715T040559Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260716T055255Z UID:74558-1787769900-1787783400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:BMI Trivia Night Fundraiser DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Chris Hammer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 21\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n1:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n3:00 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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Valley \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Chris Hammer. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The sins of the father | The love of a daughter | The secrets that divide them. \n \n The international bestselling author of: \n \n Scrublands & The Seven \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The latest stunning thriller from the bestselling author of Scrublands and The Seven.Nell Buchanan and Ivan Lucic are back – and Nell is thrown into her most emotionally fraught investigation yet. A controversial entrepreneur is murdered in a remote mountain valley\, but this is no ordinary case. Ivan and Nell are soon contending with cowboy lawyers\, conmen\, bullion thieves and grave robbers. But it’s when Nell discovers the victim is a close blood relative that the past begins to take on a looming significance. What did take place in The Valley all those years ago? What was Nell’s mother doing there\, and what was her connection to troubled young police officer Simmons Burnside? And why do the police hierarchy insist Ivan and Nell stay with the case despite an obvious conflict of interest? The Valley features a page-turning plot\, intriguing characters and an evocative sense of place—where nothing is ever quite what it seems. Chris Hammer\, the acclaimed author of the international bestsellers Scrublands\, Treasure & Dirt\, The Tilt and The Seven\, presents another immersive and emotionally rewarding thriller. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n Chris Hammer is a leading Australian crime fiction novelist\, author of the internationally bestselling Martin Scarsden series: Scrublands\, Silver and Trust. Chris’s current award-winning series features homicide detectives Nell Buchanan and Ivan Lucic: Treasure & Dirt/ Opal Country; The Tilt/Dead Man’s Creek; The Seven/Cover The Bones; and now The Valley/The Broken River. Scrublands was an instant bestseller upon publication in 2018\, topping the Australian fiction charts. It was shortlisted for major writing awards in Australia\, the UK and the United States. In the UK it was named the Sunday Times Crime Novel of the Year 2019 and won the prestigious UK Crime Writers’ Association John Creasey New Blood Dagger Award. Scrublands\, Silver and Trust all feature troubled journalist Martin Scarsden and his partner Mandalay Blonde\, while the next four novels follow homicide detectives Ivan Lucic and Nell Buchanan. Chris’s books are well known for their atmospheric Australian settings\, a range of colourful characters\, intricate plots\, descriptive language and emotional depth. Before turning to fiction\, Chris was a journalist for more than thirty years. He reported from more than 30 countries on six continents for SBS TV. In Canberra\, roles included chief political correspondent for The Bulletin\, senior writer for The Age and Online Political Editor for The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald. Chris has written two non-fiction books The River (2010) – winner of the ACT Book of the Year – and The Coast (2012)\, published by Melbourne University Press. He has a bachelor’s degree in Journalism from Charles Sturt University and a master’s degree in International Relations from the Australian National University. He lives in Canberra\, Australia. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 Bookings\n \n \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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week | Cold River by Margaret Hickey\n Cold River Margaret Hickey Don’t miss Margaret who will be... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Our Library | New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks – August 2026\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – August 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \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 Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/bmi-trivia-night-fundraiser/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Fundraiser,Important Dates,Members,Vintage & Collectables ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/square-promo-trivia-night.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260902T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260902T193000 DTSTAMP:20260707T051452Z CREATED:20260707T044841Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260707T051452Z UID:74311-1788372000-1788377400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with Lauren Williams & Penny Tangey DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Chris Hammer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 21\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n1:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n3:00 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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Valley \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Chris Hammer. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The sins of the father | The love of a daughter | The secrets that divide them. \n \n The international bestselling author of: \n \n Scrublands & The Seven \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The latest stunning thriller from the bestselling author of Scrublands and The Seven.Nell Buchanan and Ivan Lucic are back – and Nell is thrown into her most emotionally fraught investigation yet. A controversial entrepreneur is murdered in a remote mountain valley\, but this is no ordinary case. Ivan and Nell are soon contending with cowboy lawyers\, conmen\, bullion thieves and grave robbers. But it’s when Nell discovers the victim is a close blood relative that the past begins to take on a looming significance. What did take place in The Valley all those years ago? What was Nell’s mother doing there\, and what was her connection to troubled young police officer Simmons Burnside? And why do the police hierarchy insist Ivan and Nell stay with the case despite an obvious conflict of interest? The Valley features a page-turning plot\, intriguing characters and an evocative sense of place—where nothing is ever quite what it seems. Chris Hammer\, the acclaimed author of the international bestsellers Scrublands\, Treasure & Dirt\, The Tilt and The Seven\, presents another immersive and emotionally rewarding thriller. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n Chris Hammer is a leading Australian crime fiction novelist\, author of the internationally bestselling Martin Scarsden series: Scrublands\, Silver and Trust. Chris’s current award-winning series features homicide detectives Nell Buchanan and Ivan Lucic: Treasure & Dirt/ Opal Country; The Tilt/Dead Man’s Creek; The Seven/Cover The Bones; and now The Valley/The Broken River. Scrublands was an instant bestseller upon publication in 2018\, topping the Australian fiction charts. It was shortlisted for major writing awards in Australia\, the UK and the United States. In the UK it was named the Sunday Times Crime Novel of the Year 2019 and won the prestigious UK Crime Writers’ Association John Creasey New Blood Dagger Award. Scrublands\, Silver and Trust all feature troubled journalist Martin Scarsden and his partner Mandalay Blonde\, while the next four novels follow homicide detectives Ivan Lucic and Nell Buchanan. Chris’s books are well known for their atmospheric Australian settings\, a range of colourful characters\, intricate plots\, descriptive language and emotional depth. Before turning to fiction\, Chris was a journalist for more than thirty years. He reported from more than 30 countries on six continents for SBS TV. In Canberra\, roles included chief political correspondent for The Bulletin\, senior writer for The Age and Online Political Editor for The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald. Chris has written two non-fiction books The River (2010) – winner of the ACT Book of the Year – and The Coast (2012)\, published by Melbourne University Press. He has a bachelor’s degree in Journalism from Charles Sturt University and a master’s degree in International Relations from the Australian National University. He lives in Canberra\, Australia. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 Bookings\n \n \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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week | Cold River by Margaret Hickey\n Cold River Margaret Hickey Don’t miss Margaret who will be... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Our Library | New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks – August 2026\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – August 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \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 Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/in-conversation-with-lauren-williams-penny-tangey/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/sp-promo-talks-lauren-williams-penny-tangey.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260905T100000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260906T140000 DTSTAMP:20260619T051824Z CREATED:20260604T032725Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260619T051824Z UID:73413-1788602400-1788703200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Book Sale | Reward yourself with some excellent Spring reading DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Chris Hammer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 21\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n1:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n3:00 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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Valley \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Chris Hammer. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The sins of the father | The love of a daughter | The secrets that divide them. \n \n The international bestselling author of: \n \n Scrublands & The Seven \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The latest stunning thriller from the bestselling author of Scrublands and The Seven.Nell Buchanan and Ivan Lucic are back – and Nell is thrown into her most emotionally fraught investigation yet. A controversial entrepreneur is murdered in a remote mountain valley\, but this is no ordinary case. Ivan and Nell are soon contending with cowboy lawyers\, conmen\, bullion thieves and grave robbers. But it’s when Nell discovers the victim is a close blood relative that the past begins to take on a looming significance. What did take place in The Valley all those years ago? What was Nell’s mother doing there\, and what was her connection to troubled young police officer Simmons Burnside? And why do the police hierarchy insist Ivan and Nell stay with the case despite an obvious conflict of interest? The Valley features a page-turning plot\, intriguing characters and an evocative sense of place—where nothing is ever quite what it seems. Chris Hammer\, the acclaimed author of the international bestsellers Scrublands\, Treasure & Dirt\, The Tilt and The Seven\, presents another immersive and emotionally rewarding thriller. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n Chris Hammer is a leading Australian crime fiction novelist\, author of the internationally bestselling Martin Scarsden series: Scrublands\, Silver and Trust. Chris’s current award-winning series features homicide detectives Nell Buchanan and Ivan Lucic: Treasure & Dirt/ Opal Country; The Tilt/Dead Man’s Creek; The Seven/Cover The Bones; and now The Valley/The Broken River. Scrublands was an instant bestseller upon publication in 2018\, topping the Australian fiction charts. It was shortlisted for major writing awards in Australia\, the UK and the United States. In the UK it was named the Sunday Times Crime Novel of the Year 2019 and won the prestigious UK Crime Writers’ Association John Creasey New Blood Dagger Award. Scrublands\, Silver and Trust all feature troubled journalist Martin Scarsden and his partner Mandalay Blonde\, while the next four novels follow homicide detectives Ivan Lucic and Nell Buchanan. Chris’s books are well known for their atmospheric Australian settings\, a range of colourful characters\, intricate plots\, descriptive language and emotional depth. Before turning to fiction\, Chris was a journalist for more than thirty years. He reported from more than 30 countries on six continents for SBS TV. In Canberra\, roles included chief political correspondent for The Bulletin\, senior writer for The Age and Online Political Editor for The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald. Chris has written two non-fiction books The River (2010) – winner of the ACT Book of the Year – and The Coast (2012)\, published by Melbourne University Press. He has a bachelor’s degree in Journalism from Charles Sturt University and a master’s degree in International Relations from the Australian National University. He lives in Canberra\, Australia. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 Bookings\n \n \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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week | Cold River by Margaret Hickey\n Cold River Margaret Hickey Don’t miss Margaret who will be... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Our Library | New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks – August 2026\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – August 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \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 Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/book-sale-spring-bmi/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Fundraiser,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/square-promo-spring-book-sale.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260906T140000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260906T160000 DTSTAMP:20260604T035434Z CREATED:20260514T044101Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260604T035434Z UID:72995-1788703200-1788710400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Fashion Parade Fundraiser | Vintage & Collectables DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Chris Hammer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 21\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n1:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n3:00 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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Valley \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Chris Hammer. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The sins of the father | The love of a daughter | The secrets that divide them. \n \n The international bestselling author of: \n \n Scrublands & The Seven \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The latest stunning thriller from the bestselling author of Scrublands and The Seven.Nell Buchanan and Ivan Lucic are back – and Nell is thrown into her most emotionally fraught investigation yet. A controversial entrepreneur is murdered in a remote mountain valley\, but this is no ordinary case. Ivan and Nell are soon contending with cowboy lawyers\, conmen\, bullion thieves and grave robbers. But it’s when Nell discovers the victim is a close blood relative that the past begins to take on a looming significance. What did take place in The Valley all those years ago? What was Nell’s mother doing there\, and what was her connection to troubled young police officer Simmons Burnside? And why do the police hierarchy insist Ivan and Nell stay with the case despite an obvious conflict of interest? The Valley features a page-turning plot\, intriguing characters and an evocative sense of place—where nothing is ever quite what it seems. Chris Hammer\, the acclaimed author of the international bestsellers Scrublands\, Treasure & Dirt\, The Tilt and The Seven\, presents another immersive and emotionally rewarding thriller. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n Chris Hammer is a leading Australian crime fiction novelist\, author of the internationally bestselling Martin Scarsden series: Scrublands\, Silver and Trust. Chris’s current award-winning series features homicide detectives Nell Buchanan and Ivan Lucic: Treasure & Dirt/ Opal Country; The Tilt/Dead Man’s Creek; The Seven/Cover The Bones; and now The Valley/The Broken River. Scrublands was an instant bestseller upon publication in 2018\, topping the Australian fiction charts. It was shortlisted for major writing awards in Australia\, the UK and the United States. In the UK it was named the Sunday Times Crime Novel of the Year 2019 and won the prestigious UK Crime Writers’ Association John Creasey New Blood Dagger Award. Scrublands\, Silver and Trust all feature troubled journalist Martin Scarsden and his partner Mandalay Blonde\, while the next four novels follow homicide detectives Ivan Lucic and Nell Buchanan. Chris’s books are well known for their atmospheric Australian settings\, a range of colourful characters\, intricate plots\, descriptive language and emotional depth. Before turning to fiction\, Chris was a journalist for more than thirty years. He reported from more than 30 countries on six continents for SBS TV. In Canberra\, roles included chief political correspondent for The Bulletin\, senior writer for The Age and Online Political Editor for The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald. Chris has written two non-fiction books The River (2010) – winner of the ACT Book of the Year – and The Coast (2012)\, published by Melbourne University Press. He has a bachelor’s degree in Journalism from Charles Sturt University and a master’s degree in International Relations from the Australian National University. He lives in Canberra\, Australia. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 Bookings\n \n \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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week | Cold River by Margaret Hickey\n Cold River Margaret Hickey Don’t miss Margaret who will be... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Our Library | New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks – August 2026\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – August 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \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 Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/fashion-parade-fundraiser-vintage-collectables/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Fundraiser,Important Dates,Members,Vintage & Collectables ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/promotional-square-2.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260910T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260910T210000 DTSTAMP:20260331T033843Z CREATED:20260129T052341Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T033843Z UID:70438-1789068600-1789074000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Ballarat Film Society | Kōkā DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Chris Hammer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 21\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n1:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n3:00 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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Valley \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Chris Hammer. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The sins of the father | The love of a daughter | The secrets that divide them. \n \n The international bestselling author of: \n \n Scrublands & The Seven \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The latest stunning thriller from the bestselling author of Scrublands and The Seven.Nell Buchanan and Ivan Lucic are back – and Nell is thrown into her most emotionally fraught investigation yet. A controversial entrepreneur is murdered in a remote mountain valley\, but this is no ordinary case. Ivan and Nell are soon contending with cowboy lawyers\, conmen\, bullion thieves and grave robbers. But it’s when Nell discovers the victim is a close blood relative that the past begins to take on a looming significance. What did take place in The Valley all those years ago? What was Nell’s mother doing there\, and what was her connection to troubled young police officer Simmons Burnside? And why do the police hierarchy insist Ivan and Nell stay with the case despite an obvious conflict of interest? The Valley features a page-turning plot\, intriguing characters and an evocative sense of place—where nothing is ever quite what it seems. Chris Hammer\, the acclaimed author of the international bestsellers Scrublands\, Treasure & Dirt\, The Tilt and The Seven\, presents another immersive and emotionally rewarding thriller. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n Chris Hammer is a leading Australian crime fiction novelist\, author of the internationally bestselling Martin Scarsden series: Scrublands\, Silver and Trust. Chris’s current award-winning series features homicide detectives Nell Buchanan and Ivan Lucic: Treasure & Dirt/ Opal Country; The Tilt/Dead Man’s Creek; The Seven/Cover The Bones; and now The Valley/The Broken River. Scrublands was an instant bestseller upon publication in 2018\, topping the Australian fiction charts. It was shortlisted for major writing awards in Australia\, the UK and the United States. In the UK it was named the Sunday Times Crime Novel of the Year 2019 and won the prestigious UK Crime Writers’ Association John Creasey New Blood Dagger Award. Scrublands\, Silver and Trust all feature troubled journalist Martin Scarsden and his partner Mandalay Blonde\, while the next four novels follow homicide detectives Ivan Lucic and Nell Buchanan. Chris’s books are well known for their atmospheric Australian settings\, a range of colourful characters\, intricate plots\, descriptive language and emotional depth. Before turning to fiction\, Chris was a journalist for more than thirty years. He reported from more than 30 countries on six continents for SBS TV. In Canberra\, roles included chief political correspondent for The Bulletin\, senior writer for The Age and Online Political Editor for The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald. Chris has written two non-fiction books The River (2010) – winner of the ACT Book of the Year – and The Coast (2012)\, published by Melbourne University Press. He has a bachelor’s degree in Journalism from Charles Sturt University and a master’s degree in International Relations from the Australian National University. He lives in Canberra\, Australia. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 Bookings\n \n \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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week | Cold River by Margaret Hickey\n Cold River Margaret Hickey Don’t miss Margaret who will be... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Our Library | New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks – August 2026\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – August 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \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 Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/ballarat-film-society-koka/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Ballarat Film Society,Film ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/koka-sq-promo.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260923T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260923T193000 DTSTAMP:20260619T021935Z CREATED:20260618T020721Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260619T021935Z UID:73660-1790186400-1790191800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with P. A. Swanborough DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Chris Hammer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 21\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n1:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n3:00 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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Valley \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Chris Hammer. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The sins of the father | The love of a daughter | The secrets that divide them. \n \n The international bestselling author of: \n \n Scrublands & The Seven \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The latest stunning thriller from the bestselling author of Scrublands and The Seven.Nell Buchanan and Ivan Lucic are back – and Nell is thrown into her most emotionally fraught investigation yet. A controversial entrepreneur is murdered in a remote mountain valley\, but this is no ordinary case. Ivan and Nell are soon contending with cowboy lawyers\, conmen\, bullion thieves and grave robbers. But it’s when Nell discovers the victim is a close blood relative that the past begins to take on a looming significance. What did take place in The Valley all those years ago? What was Nell’s mother doing there\, and what was her connection to troubled young police officer Simmons Burnside? And why do the police hierarchy insist Ivan and Nell stay with the case despite an obvious conflict of interest? The Valley features a page-turning plot\, intriguing characters and an evocative sense of place—where nothing is ever quite what it seems. Chris Hammer\, the acclaimed author of the international bestsellers Scrublands\, Treasure & Dirt\, The Tilt and The Seven\, presents another immersive and emotionally rewarding thriller. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n Chris Hammer is a leading Australian crime fiction novelist\, author of the internationally bestselling Martin Scarsden series: Scrublands\, Silver and Trust. Chris’s current award-winning series features homicide detectives Nell Buchanan and Ivan Lucic: Treasure & Dirt/ Opal Country; The Tilt/Dead Man’s Creek; The Seven/Cover The Bones; and now The Valley/The Broken River. Scrublands was an instant bestseller upon publication in 2018\, topping the Australian fiction charts. It was shortlisted for major writing awards in Australia\, the UK and the United States. In the UK it was named the Sunday Times Crime Novel of the Year 2019 and won the prestigious UK Crime Writers’ Association John Creasey New Blood Dagger Award. Scrublands\, Silver and Trust all feature troubled journalist Martin Scarsden and his partner Mandalay Blonde\, while the next four novels follow homicide detectives Ivan Lucic and Nell Buchanan. Chris’s books are well known for their atmospheric Australian settings\, a range of colourful characters\, intricate plots\, descriptive language and emotional depth. Before turning to fiction\, Chris was a journalist for more than thirty years. He reported from more than 30 countries on six continents for SBS TV. In Canberra\, roles included chief political correspondent for The Bulletin\, senior writer for The Age and Online Political Editor for The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald. Chris has written two non-fiction books The River (2010) – winner of the ACT Book of the Year – and The Coast (2012)\, published by Melbourne University Press. He has a bachelor’s degree in Journalism from Charles Sturt University and a master’s degree in International Relations from the Australian National University. He lives in Canberra\, Australia. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 Bookings\n \n \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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week | Cold River by Margaret Hickey\n Cold River Margaret Hickey Don’t miss Margaret who will be... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Our Library | New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks – August 2026\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – August 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \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 Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/in-conversation-with-p-a-swanborough/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/sp-promo-talks-pa-swanborough-v2.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260929T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260929T193000 DTSTAMP:20260710T050355Z CREATED:20260630T040425Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260710T050355Z UID:74057-1790704800-1790710200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with Sally Mackinnon DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Chris Hammer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 21\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n1:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n3:00 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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Valley \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Chris Hammer. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The sins of the father | The love of a daughter | The secrets that divide them. \n \n The international bestselling author of: \n \n Scrublands & The Seven \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The latest stunning thriller from the bestselling author of Scrublands and The Seven.Nell Buchanan and Ivan Lucic are back – and Nell is thrown into her most emotionally fraught investigation yet. A controversial entrepreneur is murdered in a remote mountain valley\, but this is no ordinary case. Ivan and Nell are soon contending with cowboy lawyers\, conmen\, bullion thieves and grave robbers. But it’s when Nell discovers the victim is a close blood relative that the past begins to take on a looming significance. What did take place in The Valley all those years ago? What was Nell’s mother doing there\, and what was her connection to troubled young police officer Simmons Burnside? And why do the police hierarchy insist Ivan and Nell stay with the case despite an obvious conflict of interest? The Valley features a page-turning plot\, intriguing characters and an evocative sense of place—where nothing is ever quite what it seems. Chris Hammer\, the acclaimed author of the international bestsellers Scrublands\, Treasure & Dirt\, The Tilt and The Seven\, presents another immersive and emotionally rewarding thriller. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n Chris Hammer is a leading Australian crime fiction novelist\, author of the internationally bestselling Martin Scarsden series: Scrublands\, Silver and Trust. Chris’s current award-winning series features homicide detectives Nell Buchanan and Ivan Lucic: Treasure & Dirt/ Opal Country; The Tilt/Dead Man’s Creek; The Seven/Cover The Bones; and now The Valley/The Broken River. Scrublands was an instant bestseller upon publication in 2018\, topping the Australian fiction charts. It was shortlisted for major writing awards in Australia\, the UK and the United States. In the UK it was named the Sunday Times Crime Novel of the Year 2019 and won the prestigious UK Crime Writers’ Association John Creasey New Blood Dagger Award. Scrublands\, Silver and Trust all feature troubled journalist Martin Scarsden and his partner Mandalay Blonde\, while the next four novels follow homicide detectives Ivan Lucic and Nell Buchanan. Chris’s books are well known for their atmospheric Australian settings\, a range of colourful characters\, intricate plots\, descriptive language and emotional depth. Before turning to fiction\, Chris was a journalist for more than thirty years. He reported from more than 30 countries on six continents for SBS TV. In Canberra\, roles included chief political correspondent for The Bulletin\, senior writer for The Age and Online Political Editor for The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald. Chris has written two non-fiction books The River (2010) – winner of the ACT Book of the Year – and The Coast (2012)\, published by Melbourne University Press. He has a bachelor’s degree in Journalism from Charles Sturt University and a master’s degree in International Relations from the Australian National University. He lives in Canberra\, Australia. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 Bookings\n \n \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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week | Cold River by Margaret Hickey\n Cold River Margaret Hickey Don’t miss Margaret who will be... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Our Library | New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks – August 2026\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – August 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \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 Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/in-conversation-with-sally-mackinnon/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/sp-promo-talks-sally-mackinnon.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261001T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261001T193000 DTSTAMP:20260619T055107Z CREATED:20260618T013735Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260619T055107Z UID:73652-1790877600-1790883000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with Michael Robotham DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Chris Hammer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 21\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n1:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n3:00 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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Valley \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Chris Hammer. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The sins of the father | The love of a daughter | The secrets that divide them. \n \n The international bestselling author of: \n \n Scrublands & The Seven \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The latest stunning thriller from the bestselling author of Scrublands and The Seven.Nell Buchanan and Ivan Lucic are back – and Nell is thrown into her most emotionally fraught investigation yet. A controversial entrepreneur is murdered in a remote mountain valley\, but this is no ordinary case. Ivan and Nell are soon contending with cowboy lawyers\, conmen\, bullion thieves and grave robbers. But it’s when Nell discovers the victim is a close blood relative that the past begins to take on a looming significance. What did take place in The Valley all those years ago? What was Nell’s mother doing there\, and what was her connection to troubled young police officer Simmons Burnside? And why do the police hierarchy insist Ivan and Nell stay with the case despite an obvious conflict of interest? The Valley features a page-turning plot\, intriguing characters and an evocative sense of place—where nothing is ever quite what it seems. Chris Hammer\, the acclaimed author of the international bestsellers Scrublands\, Treasure & Dirt\, The Tilt and The Seven\, presents another immersive and emotionally rewarding thriller. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n Chris Hammer is a leading Australian crime fiction novelist\, author of the internationally bestselling Martin Scarsden series: Scrublands\, Silver and Trust. Chris’s current award-winning series features homicide detectives Nell Buchanan and Ivan Lucic: Treasure & Dirt/ Opal Country; The Tilt/Dead Man’s Creek; The Seven/Cover The Bones; and now The Valley/The Broken River. Scrublands was an instant bestseller upon publication in 2018\, topping the Australian fiction charts. It was shortlisted for major writing awards in Australia\, the UK and the United States. In the UK it was named the Sunday Times Crime Novel of the Year 2019 and won the prestigious UK Crime Writers’ Association John Creasey New Blood Dagger Award. Scrublands\, Silver and Trust all feature troubled journalist Martin Scarsden and his partner Mandalay Blonde\, while the next four novels follow homicide detectives Ivan Lucic and Nell Buchanan. Chris’s books are well known for their atmospheric Australian settings\, a range of colourful characters\, intricate plots\, descriptive language and emotional depth. Before turning to fiction\, Chris was a journalist for more than thirty years. He reported from more than 30 countries on six continents for SBS TV. In Canberra\, roles included chief political correspondent for The Bulletin\, senior writer for The Age and Online Political Editor for The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald. Chris has written two non-fiction books The River (2010) – winner of the ACT Book of the Year – and The Coast (2012)\, published by Melbourne University Press. He has a bachelor’s degree in Journalism from Charles Sturt University and a master’s degree in International Relations from the Australian National University. He lives in Canberra\, Australia. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 Bookings\n \n \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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week | Cold River by Margaret Hickey\n Cold River Margaret Hickey Don’t miss Margaret who will be... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Our Library | New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks – August 2026\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – August 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \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 Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/in-conversation-with-michael-robotham/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/sp-promo-talks-michael-robotham.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261005T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261005T193000 DTSTAMP:20260709T024322Z CREATED:20260707T044017Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260709T024322Z UID:74304-1791223200-1791228600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with Monica McInerney DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Chris Hammer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 21\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n1:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n3:00 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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Valley \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Chris Hammer. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The sins of the father | The love of a daughter | The secrets that divide them. \n \n The international bestselling author of: \n \n Scrublands & The Seven \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The latest stunning thriller from the bestselling author of Scrublands and The Seven.Nell Buchanan and Ivan Lucic are back – and Nell is thrown into her most emotionally fraught investigation yet. A controversial entrepreneur is murdered in a remote mountain valley\, but this is no ordinary case. Ivan and Nell are soon contending with cowboy lawyers\, conmen\, bullion thieves and grave robbers. But it’s when Nell discovers the victim is a close blood relative that the past begins to take on a looming significance. What did take place in The Valley all those years ago? What was Nell’s mother doing there\, and what was her connection to troubled young police officer Simmons Burnside? And why do the police hierarchy insist Ivan and Nell stay with the case despite an obvious conflict of interest? The Valley features a page-turning plot\, intriguing characters and an evocative sense of place—where nothing is ever quite what it seems. Chris Hammer\, the acclaimed author of the international bestsellers Scrublands\, Treasure & Dirt\, The Tilt and The Seven\, presents another immersive and emotionally rewarding thriller. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n Chris Hammer is a leading Australian crime fiction novelist\, author of the internationally bestselling Martin Scarsden series: Scrublands\, Silver and Trust. Chris’s current award-winning series features homicide detectives Nell Buchanan and Ivan Lucic: Treasure & Dirt/ Opal Country; The Tilt/Dead Man’s Creek; The Seven/Cover The Bones; and now The Valley/The Broken River. Scrublands was an instant bestseller upon publication in 2018\, topping the Australian fiction charts. It was shortlisted for major writing awards in Australia\, the UK and the United States. In the UK it was named the Sunday Times Crime Novel of the Year 2019 and won the prestigious UK Crime Writers’ Association John Creasey New Blood Dagger Award. Scrublands\, Silver and Trust all feature troubled journalist Martin Scarsden and his partner Mandalay Blonde\, while the next four novels follow homicide detectives Ivan Lucic and Nell Buchanan. Chris’s books are well known for their atmospheric Australian settings\, a range of colourful characters\, intricate plots\, descriptive language and emotional depth. Before turning to fiction\, Chris was a journalist for more than thirty years. He reported from more than 30 countries on six continents for SBS TV. In Canberra\, roles included chief political correspondent for The Bulletin\, senior writer for The Age and Online Political Editor for The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald. Chris has written two non-fiction books The River (2010) – winner of the ACT Book of the Year – and The Coast (2012)\, published by Melbourne University Press. He has a bachelor’s degree in Journalism from Charles Sturt University and a master’s degree in International Relations from the Australian National University. He lives in Canberra\, Australia. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 Bookings\n \n \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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week | Cold River by Margaret Hickey\n Cold River Margaret Hickey Don’t miss Margaret who will be... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Our Library | New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks – August 2026\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – August 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \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 Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/in-conversation-with-monica-mcinerney/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/sp-promo-talks-monica-mcinerney-v2.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261008T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261008T210000 DTSTAMP:20260331T033815Z CREATED:20260129T054045Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T033815Z UID:70446-1791487800-1791493200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Ballarat Film Society | Bound for Glory DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Chris Hammer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 21\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n1:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n3:00 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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Valley \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Chris Hammer. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The sins of the father | The love of a daughter | The secrets that divide them. \n \n The international bestselling author of: \n \n Scrublands & The Seven \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The latest stunning thriller from the bestselling author of Scrublands and The Seven.Nell Buchanan and Ivan Lucic are back – and Nell is thrown into her most emotionally fraught investigation yet. A controversial entrepreneur is murdered in a remote mountain valley\, but this is no ordinary case. Ivan and Nell are soon contending with cowboy lawyers\, conmen\, bullion thieves and grave robbers. But it’s when Nell discovers the victim is a close blood relative that the past begins to take on a looming significance. What did take place in The Valley all those years ago? What was Nell’s mother doing there\, and what was her connection to troubled young police officer Simmons Burnside? And why do the police hierarchy insist Ivan and Nell stay with the case despite an obvious conflict of interest? The Valley features a page-turning plot\, intriguing characters and an evocative sense of place—where nothing is ever quite what it seems. Chris Hammer\, the acclaimed author of the international bestsellers Scrublands\, Treasure & Dirt\, The Tilt and The Seven\, presents another immersive and emotionally rewarding thriller. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n Chris Hammer is a leading Australian crime fiction novelist\, author of the internationally bestselling Martin Scarsden series: Scrublands\, Silver and Trust. Chris’s current award-winning series features homicide detectives Nell Buchanan and Ivan Lucic: Treasure & Dirt/ Opal Country; The Tilt/Dead Man’s Creek; The Seven/Cover The Bones; and now The Valley/The Broken River. Scrublands was an instant bestseller upon publication in 2018\, topping the Australian fiction charts. It was shortlisted for major writing awards in Australia\, the UK and the United States. In the UK it was named the Sunday Times Crime Novel of the Year 2019 and won the prestigious UK Crime Writers’ Association John Creasey New Blood Dagger Award. Scrublands\, Silver and Trust all feature troubled journalist Martin Scarsden and his partner Mandalay Blonde\, while the next four novels follow homicide detectives Ivan Lucic and Nell Buchanan. Chris’s books are well known for their atmospheric Australian settings\, a range of colourful characters\, intricate plots\, descriptive language and emotional depth. Before turning to fiction\, Chris was a journalist for more than thirty years. He reported from more than 30 countries on six continents for SBS TV. In Canberra\, roles included chief political correspondent for The Bulletin\, senior writer for The Age and Online Political Editor for The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald. Chris has written two non-fiction books The River (2010) – winner of the ACT Book of the Year – and The Coast (2012)\, published by Melbourne University Press. He has a bachelor’s degree in Journalism from Charles Sturt University and a master’s degree in International Relations from the Australian National University. He lives in Canberra\, Australia. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 Bookings\n \n \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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week | Cold River by Margaret Hickey\n Cold River Margaret Hickey Don’t miss Margaret who will be... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Our Library | New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks – August 2026\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – August 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \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 Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/ballarat-film-society-bound-for-glory/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Ballarat Film Society,Film ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/bound-for-glory-sq-promo.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261009T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261009T220000 DTSTAMP:20260331T023230Z CREATED:20260203T013254Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T023230Z UID:70535-1791572400-1791583200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Telegraph Road - The Dire Straits Legacy: Matt Arthur and The Lazybones DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Chris Hammer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 21\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n1:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n3:00 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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Valley \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Chris Hammer. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The sins of the father | The love of a daughter | The secrets that divide them. \n \n The international bestselling author of: \n \n Scrublands & The Seven \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The latest stunning thriller from the bestselling author of Scrublands and The Seven.Nell Buchanan and Ivan Lucic are back – and Nell is thrown into her most emotionally fraught investigation yet. A controversial entrepreneur is murdered in a remote mountain valley\, but this is no ordinary case. Ivan and Nell are soon contending with cowboy lawyers\, conmen\, bullion thieves and grave robbers. But it’s when Nell discovers the victim is a close blood relative that the past begins to take on a looming significance. What did take place in The Valley all those years ago? What was Nell’s mother doing there\, and what was her connection to troubled young police officer Simmons Burnside? And why do the police hierarchy insist Ivan and Nell stay with the case despite an obvious conflict of interest? The Valley features a page-turning plot\, intriguing characters and an evocative sense of place—where nothing is ever quite what it seems. Chris Hammer\, the acclaimed author of the international bestsellers Scrublands\, Treasure & Dirt\, The Tilt and The Seven\, presents another immersive and emotionally rewarding thriller. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n Chris Hammer is a leading Australian crime fiction novelist\, author of the internationally bestselling Martin Scarsden series: Scrublands\, Silver and Trust. Chris’s current award-winning series features homicide detectives Nell Buchanan and Ivan Lucic: Treasure & Dirt/ Opal Country; The Tilt/Dead Man’s Creek; The Seven/Cover The Bones; and now The Valley/The Broken River. Scrublands was an instant bestseller upon publication in 2018\, topping the Australian fiction charts. It was shortlisted for major writing awards in Australia\, the UK and the United States. In the UK it was named the Sunday Times Crime Novel of the Year 2019 and won the prestigious UK Crime Writers’ Association John Creasey New Blood Dagger Award. Scrublands\, Silver and Trust all feature troubled journalist Martin Scarsden and his partner Mandalay Blonde\, while the next four novels follow homicide detectives Ivan Lucic and Nell Buchanan. Chris’s books are well known for their atmospheric Australian settings\, a range of colourful characters\, intricate plots\, descriptive language and emotional depth. Before turning to fiction\, Chris was a journalist for more than thirty years. He reported from more than 30 countries on six continents for SBS TV. In Canberra\, roles included chief political correspondent for The Bulletin\, senior writer for The Age and Online Political Editor for The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald. Chris has written two non-fiction books The River (2010) – winner of the ACT Book of the Year – and The Coast (2012)\, published by Melbourne University Press. He has a bachelor’s degree in Journalism from Charles Sturt University and a master’s degree in International Relations from the Australian National University. He lives in Canberra\, Australia. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 Bookings\n \n \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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week | Cold River by Margaret Hickey\n Cold River Margaret Hickey Don’t miss Margaret who will be... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Our Library | New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks – August 2026\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – August 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \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 Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/telegraph-road-the-dire-straits-legacy/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Live Music ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/matt-arthur-sq-promo.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Matt Arthur Music":MAILTO:matt@mattarthurmusic.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261010T141500 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261010T161500 DTSTAMP:20260722T232002Z CREATED:20260715T015745Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260722T232002Z UID:74546-1791641700-1791648900@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Royal Australian Navy 125th Anniversary Concert DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Chris Hammer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 21\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n1:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n3:00 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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Valley \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Chris Hammer. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The sins of the father | The love of a daughter | The secrets that divide them. \n \n The international bestselling author of: \n \n Scrublands & The Seven \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The latest stunning thriller from the bestselling author of Scrublands and The Seven.Nell Buchanan and Ivan Lucic are back – and Nell is thrown into her most emotionally fraught investigation yet. A controversial entrepreneur is murdered in a remote mountain valley\, but this is no ordinary case. Ivan and Nell are soon contending with cowboy lawyers\, conmen\, bullion thieves and grave robbers. But it’s when Nell discovers the victim is a close blood relative that the past begins to take on a looming significance. What did take place in The Valley all those years ago? What was Nell’s mother doing there\, and what was her connection to troubled young police officer Simmons Burnside? And why do the police hierarchy insist Ivan and Nell stay with the case despite an obvious conflict of interest? The Valley features a page-turning plot\, intriguing characters and an evocative sense of place—where nothing is ever quite what it seems. Chris Hammer\, the acclaimed author of the international bestsellers Scrublands\, Treasure & Dirt\, The Tilt and The Seven\, presents another immersive and emotionally rewarding thriller. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n Chris Hammer is a leading Australian crime fiction novelist\, author of the internationally bestselling Martin Scarsden series: Scrublands\, Silver and Trust. Chris’s current award-winning series features homicide detectives Nell Buchanan and Ivan Lucic: Treasure & Dirt/ Opal Country; The Tilt/Dead Man’s Creek; The Seven/Cover The Bones; and now The Valley/The Broken River. Scrublands was an instant bestseller upon publication in 2018\, topping the Australian fiction charts. It was shortlisted for major writing awards in Australia\, the UK and the United States. In the UK it was named the Sunday Times Crime Novel of the Year 2019 and won the prestigious UK Crime Writers’ Association John Creasey New Blood Dagger Award. Scrublands\, Silver and Trust all feature troubled journalist Martin Scarsden and his partner Mandalay Blonde\, while the next four novels follow homicide detectives Ivan Lucic and Nell Buchanan. Chris’s books are well known for their atmospheric Australian settings\, a range of colourful characters\, intricate plots\, descriptive language and emotional depth. Before turning to fiction\, Chris was a journalist for more than thirty years. He reported from more than 30 countries on six continents for SBS TV. In Canberra\, roles included chief political correspondent for The Bulletin\, senior writer for The Age and Online Political Editor for The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald. Chris has written two non-fiction books The River (2010) – winner of the ACT Book of the Year – and The Coast (2012)\, published by Melbourne University Press. He has a bachelor’s degree in Journalism from Charles Sturt University and a master’s degree in International Relations from the Australian National University. He lives in Canberra\, Australia. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 Bookings\n \n \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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week | Cold River by Margaret Hickey\n Cold River Margaret Hickey Don’t miss Margaret who will be... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Our Library | New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks – August 2026\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – August 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \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 Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/royal-australian-navy-125th-anniversary-concert/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Fundraiser,Important Dates,Live Music ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/sq-promo-events-cerberus.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261125T173000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261125T183000 DTSTAMP:20260625T023611Z CREATED:20260623T232758Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260625T023611Z UID:73816-1795627800-1795631400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Twilight Talks: Season 2\, Understanding the Language of your Body DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Chris Hammer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 21\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n1:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n3:00 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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Valley \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Chris Hammer. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The sins of the father | The love of a daughter | The secrets that divide them. \n \n The international bestselling author of: \n \n Scrublands & The Seven \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The latest stunning thriller from the bestselling author of Scrublands and The Seven.Nell Buchanan and Ivan Lucic are back – and Nell is thrown into her most emotionally fraught investigation yet. A controversial entrepreneur is murdered in a remote mountain valley\, but this is no ordinary case. Ivan and Nell are soon contending with cowboy lawyers\, conmen\, bullion thieves and grave robbers. But it’s when Nell discovers the victim is a close blood relative that the past begins to take on a looming significance. What did take place in The Valley all those years ago? What was Nell’s mother doing there\, and what was her connection to troubled young police officer Simmons Burnside? And why do the police hierarchy insist Ivan and Nell stay with the case despite an obvious conflict of interest? The Valley features a page-turning plot\, intriguing characters and an evocative sense of place—where nothing is ever quite what it seems. Chris Hammer\, the acclaimed author of the international bestsellers Scrublands\, Treasure & Dirt\, The Tilt and The Seven\, presents another immersive and emotionally rewarding thriller. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n Chris Hammer is a leading Australian crime fiction novelist\, author of the internationally bestselling Martin Scarsden series: Scrublands\, Silver and Trust. Chris’s current award-winning series features homicide detectives Nell Buchanan and Ivan Lucic: Treasure & Dirt/ Opal Country; The Tilt/Dead Man’s Creek; The Seven/Cover The Bones; and now The Valley/The Broken River. Scrublands was an instant bestseller upon publication in 2018\, topping the Australian fiction charts. It was shortlisted for major writing awards in Australia\, the UK and the United States. In the UK it was named the Sunday Times Crime Novel of the Year 2019 and won the prestigious UK Crime Writers’ Association John Creasey New Blood Dagger Award. Scrublands\, Silver and Trust all feature troubled journalist Martin Scarsden and his partner Mandalay Blonde\, while the next four novels follow homicide detectives Ivan Lucic and Nell Buchanan. Chris’s books are well known for their atmospheric Australian settings\, a range of colourful characters\, intricate plots\, descriptive language and emotional depth. Before turning to fiction\, Chris was a journalist for more than thirty years. He reported from more than 30 countries on six continents for SBS TV. In Canberra\, roles included chief political correspondent for The Bulletin\, senior writer for The Age and Online Political Editor for The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald. Chris has written two non-fiction books The River (2010) – winner of the ACT Book of the Year – and The Coast (2012)\, published by Melbourne University Press. He has a bachelor’s degree in Journalism from Charles Sturt University and a master’s degree in International Relations from the Australian National University. He lives in Canberra\, Australia. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 Bookings\n \n \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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week | Cold River by Margaret Hickey\n Cold River Margaret Hickey Don’t miss Margaret who will be... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Our Library | New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks – August 2026\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – August 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \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 Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/twilight-talks-season-2-the-language-of-your-body/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Twilight Talks ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/square-promo-tt-language-of-your-body.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261202T173000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261202T183000 DTSTAMP:20260709T034048Z CREATED:20260625T024453Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260709T034048Z UID:73897-1796232600-1796236200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Twilight Talks: Season 2\, 100 Year History of Legacy\, Ballarat DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Chris Hammer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 21\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n1:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n3:00 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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Valley \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Chris Hammer. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The sins of the father | The love of a daughter | The secrets that divide them. \n \n The international bestselling author of: \n \n Scrublands & The Seven \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The latest stunning thriller from the bestselling author of Scrublands and The Seven.Nell Buchanan and Ivan Lucic are back – and Nell is thrown into her most emotionally fraught investigation yet. A controversial entrepreneur is murdered in a remote mountain valley\, but this is no ordinary case. Ivan and Nell are soon contending with cowboy lawyers\, conmen\, bullion thieves and grave robbers. But it’s when Nell discovers the victim is a close blood relative that the past begins to take on a looming significance. What did take place in The Valley all those years ago? What was Nell’s mother doing there\, and what was her connection to troubled young police officer Simmons Burnside? And why do the police hierarchy insist Ivan and Nell stay with the case despite an obvious conflict of interest? The Valley features a page-turning plot\, intriguing characters and an evocative sense of place—where nothing is ever quite what it seems. Chris Hammer\, the acclaimed author of the international bestsellers Scrublands\, Treasure & Dirt\, The Tilt and The Seven\, presents another immersive and emotionally rewarding thriller. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n Chris Hammer is a leading Australian crime fiction novelist\, author of the internationally bestselling Martin Scarsden series: Scrublands\, Silver and Trust. Chris’s current award-winning series features homicide detectives Nell Buchanan and Ivan Lucic: Treasure & Dirt/ Opal Country; The Tilt/Dead Man’s Creek; The Seven/Cover The Bones; and now The Valley/The Broken River. Scrublands was an instant bestseller upon publication in 2018\, topping the Australian fiction charts. It was shortlisted for major writing awards in Australia\, the UK and the United States. In the UK it was named the Sunday Times Crime Novel of the Year 2019 and won the prestigious UK Crime Writers’ Association John Creasey New Blood Dagger Award. Scrublands\, Silver and Trust all feature troubled journalist Martin Scarsden and his partner Mandalay Blonde\, while the next four novels follow homicide detectives Ivan Lucic and Nell Buchanan. Chris’s books are well known for their atmospheric Australian settings\, a range of colourful characters\, intricate plots\, descriptive language and emotional depth. Before turning to fiction\, Chris was a journalist for more than thirty years. He reported from more than 30 countries on six continents for SBS TV. In Canberra\, roles included chief political correspondent for The Bulletin\, senior writer for The Age and Online Political Editor for The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald. Chris has written two non-fiction books The River (2010) – winner of the ACT Book of the Year – and The Coast (2012)\, published by Melbourne University Press. He has a bachelor’s degree in Journalism from Charles Sturt University and a master’s degree in International Relations from the Australian National University. He lives in Canberra\, Australia. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 Bookings\n \n \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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week | Cold River by Margaret Hickey\n Cold River Margaret Hickey Don’t miss Margaret who will be... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Our Library | New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks – August 2026\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – August 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \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 Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/twilight-talks-season-2-100-year-history-of-legacy-ballarat/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Twilight Talks ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/square-promo-tt-legacy.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261210T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261210T210000 DTSTAMP:20260414T073342Z CREATED:20260129T055545Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260414T073342Z UID:70454-1796931000-1796936400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Ballarat Film Society | Smiley Gets a Gun DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Chris Hammer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 21\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n1:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n3:00 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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Valley \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Chris Hammer. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The sins of the father | The love of a daughter | The secrets that divide them. \n \n The international bestselling author of: \n \n Scrublands & The Seven \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The latest stunning thriller from the bestselling author of Scrublands and The Seven.Nell Buchanan and Ivan Lucic are back – and Nell is thrown into her most emotionally fraught investigation yet. A controversial entrepreneur is murdered in a remote mountain valley\, but this is no ordinary case. Ivan and Nell are soon contending with cowboy lawyers\, conmen\, bullion thieves and grave robbers. But it’s when Nell discovers the victim is a close blood relative that the past begins to take on a looming significance. What did take place in The Valley all those years ago? What was Nell’s mother doing there\, and what was her connection to troubled young police officer Simmons Burnside? And why do the police hierarchy insist Ivan and Nell stay with the case despite an obvious conflict of interest? The Valley features a page-turning plot\, intriguing characters and an evocative sense of place—where nothing is ever quite what it seems. Chris Hammer\, the acclaimed author of the international bestsellers Scrublands\, Treasure & Dirt\, The Tilt and The Seven\, presents another immersive and emotionally rewarding thriller. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n Chris Hammer is a leading Australian crime fiction novelist\, author of the internationally bestselling Martin Scarsden series: Scrublands\, Silver and Trust. Chris’s current award-winning series features homicide detectives Nell Buchanan and Ivan Lucic: Treasure & Dirt/ Opal Country; The Tilt/Dead Man’s Creek; The Seven/Cover The Bones; and now The Valley/The Broken River. Scrublands was an instant bestseller upon publication in 2018\, topping the Australian fiction charts. It was shortlisted for major writing awards in Australia\, the UK and the United States. In the UK it was named the Sunday Times Crime Novel of the Year 2019 and won the prestigious UK Crime Writers’ Association John Creasey New Blood Dagger Award. Scrublands\, Silver and Trust all feature troubled journalist Martin Scarsden and his partner Mandalay Blonde\, while the next four novels follow homicide detectives Ivan Lucic and Nell Buchanan. Chris’s books are well known for their atmospheric Australian settings\, a range of colourful characters\, intricate plots\, descriptive language and emotional depth. Before turning to fiction\, Chris was a journalist for more than thirty years. He reported from more than 30 countries on six continents for SBS TV. In Canberra\, roles included chief political correspondent for The Bulletin\, senior writer for The Age and Online Political Editor for The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald. Chris has written two non-fiction books The River (2010) – winner of the ACT Book of the Year – and The Coast (2012)\, published by Melbourne University Press. He has a bachelor’s degree in Journalism from Charles Sturt University and a master’s degree in International Relations from the Australian National University. He lives in Canberra\, Australia. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 Bookings\n \n \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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week | Cold River by Margaret Hickey\n Cold River Margaret Hickey Don’t miss Margaret who will be... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Our Library | New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks – August 2026\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – August 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \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 Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/ballarat-film-society-smiley-gets-a-gun/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Ballarat Film Society,Film ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/smiley-sq-promo.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261212T100000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261213T140000 DTSTAMP:20260619T051722Z CREATED:20260619T034945Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260619T051722Z UID:73676-1797069600-1797170400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Book Sale | Reward yourself with some excellent Christmas reading DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Chris Hammer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 21\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n1:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n3:00 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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Valley \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Chris Hammer. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The sins of the father | The love of a daughter | The secrets that divide them. \n \n The international bestselling author of: \n \n Scrublands & The Seven \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The latest stunning thriller from the bestselling author of Scrublands and The Seven.Nell Buchanan and Ivan Lucic are back – and Nell is thrown into her most emotionally fraught investigation yet. A controversial entrepreneur is murdered in a remote mountain valley\, but this is no ordinary case. Ivan and Nell are soon contending with cowboy lawyers\, conmen\, bullion thieves and grave robbers. But it’s when Nell discovers the victim is a close blood relative that the past begins to take on a looming significance. What did take place in The Valley all those years ago? What was Nell’s mother doing there\, and what was her connection to troubled young police officer Simmons Burnside? And why do the police hierarchy insist Ivan and Nell stay with the case despite an obvious conflict of interest? The Valley features a page-turning plot\, intriguing characters and an evocative sense of place—where nothing is ever quite what it seems. Chris Hammer\, the acclaimed author of the international bestsellers Scrublands\, Treasure & Dirt\, The Tilt and The Seven\, presents another immersive and emotionally rewarding thriller. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n Chris Hammer is a leading Australian crime fiction novelist\, author of the internationally bestselling Martin Scarsden series: Scrublands\, Silver and Trust. Chris’s current award-winning series features homicide detectives Nell Buchanan and Ivan Lucic: Treasure & Dirt/ Opal Country; The Tilt/Dead Man’s Creek; The Seven/Cover The Bones; and now The Valley/The Broken River. Scrublands was an instant bestseller upon publication in 2018\, topping the Australian fiction charts. It was shortlisted for major writing awards in Australia\, the UK and the United States. In the UK it was named the Sunday Times Crime Novel of the Year 2019 and won the prestigious UK Crime Writers’ Association John Creasey New Blood Dagger Award. Scrublands\, Silver and Trust all feature troubled journalist Martin Scarsden and his partner Mandalay Blonde\, while the next four novels follow homicide detectives Ivan Lucic and Nell Buchanan. Chris’s books are well known for their atmospheric Australian settings\, a range of colourful characters\, intricate plots\, descriptive language and emotional depth. Before turning to fiction\, Chris was a journalist for more than thirty years. He reported from more than 30 countries on six continents for SBS TV. In Canberra\, roles included chief political correspondent for The Bulletin\, senior writer for The Age and Online Political Editor for The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald. Chris has written two non-fiction books The River (2010) – winner of the ACT Book of the Year – and The Coast (2012)\, published by Melbourne University Press. He has a bachelor’s degree in Journalism from Charles Sturt University and a master’s degree in International Relations from the Australian National University. He lives in Canberra\, Australia. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 Bookings\n \n \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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week | Cold River by Margaret Hickey\n Cold River Margaret Hickey Don’t miss Margaret who will be... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Our Library | New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks – August 2026\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – August 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \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 Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/book-sale-reward-yourself-with-some-excellent-christmas-reading/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Fundraiser,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/square-promo-christmas-26.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20270501T100000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20270502T140000 DTSTAMP:20260619T051712Z CREATED:20260619T051024Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260619T051712Z UID:73683-1809165600-1809266400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Book Sale | Reward yourself with some excellent Autumn reading DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Chris Hammer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n October 21\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n1:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n3:00 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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Valley \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Chris Hammer. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The sins of the father | The love of a daughter | The secrets that divide them. \n \n The international bestselling author of: \n \n Scrublands & The Seven \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The latest stunning thriller from the bestselling author of Scrublands and The Seven.Nell Buchanan and Ivan Lucic are back – and Nell is thrown into her most emotionally fraught investigation yet. A controversial entrepreneur is murdered in a remote mountain valley\, but this is no ordinary case. Ivan and Nell are soon contending with cowboy lawyers\, conmen\, bullion thieves and grave robbers. But it’s when Nell discovers the victim is a close blood relative that the past begins to take on a looming significance. What did take place in The Valley all those years ago? What was Nell’s mother doing there\, and what was her connection to troubled young police officer Simmons Burnside? And why do the police hierarchy insist Ivan and Nell stay with the case despite an obvious conflict of interest? The Valley features a page-turning plot\, intriguing characters and an evocative sense of place—where nothing is ever quite what it seems. Chris Hammer\, the acclaimed author of the international bestsellers Scrublands\, Treasure & Dirt\, The Tilt and The Seven\, presents another immersive and emotionally rewarding thriller. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the author \n \n Chris Hammer is a leading Australian crime fiction novelist\, author of the internationally bestselling Martin Scarsden series: Scrublands\, Silver and Trust. Chris’s current award-winning series features homicide detectives Nell Buchanan and Ivan Lucic: Treasure & Dirt/ Opal Country; The Tilt/Dead Man’s Creek; The Seven/Cover The Bones; and now The Valley/The Broken River. Scrublands was an instant bestseller upon publication in 2018\, topping the Australian fiction charts. It was shortlisted for major writing awards in Australia\, the UK and the United States. In the UK it was named the Sunday Times Crime Novel of the Year 2019 and won the prestigious UK Crime Writers’ Association John Creasey New Blood Dagger Award. Scrublands\, Silver and Trust all feature troubled journalist Martin Scarsden and his partner Mandalay Blonde\, while the next four novels follow homicide detectives Ivan Lucic and Nell Buchanan. Chris’s books are well known for their atmospheric Australian settings\, a range of colourful characters\, intricate plots\, descriptive language and emotional depth. Before turning to fiction\, Chris was a journalist for more than thirty years. He reported from more than 30 countries on six continents for SBS TV. In Canberra\, roles included chief political correspondent for The Bulletin\, senior writer for The Age and Online Political Editor for The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald. Chris has written two non-fiction books The River (2010) – winner of the ACT Book of the Year – and The Coast (2012)\, published by Melbourne University Press. He has a bachelor’s degree in Journalism from Charles Sturt University and a master’s degree in International Relations from the Australian National University. He lives in Canberra\, Australia. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 Bookings\n \n \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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week | Cold River by Margaret Hickey\n Cold River Margaret Hickey Don’t miss Margaret who will be... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Our Library | New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks – August 2026\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – August 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \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 Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/book-sale-reward-yourself-with-some-excellent-autumn-reading/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Fundraiser,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/square-promo-autumn-26.jpg END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR