BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute - ECPv6.15.20//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-WR-CALNAME:Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:Australia/Melbourne BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+1100 TZOFFSETTO:+1000 TZNAME:AEST DTSTART:20220402T160000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+1000 TZOFFSETTO:+1100 TZNAME:AEDT DTSTART:20221001T160000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+1100 TZOFFSETTO:+1000 TZNAME:AEST DTSTART:20230401T160000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+1000 TZOFFSETTO:+1100 TZNAME:AEDT DTSTART:20230930T160000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+1100 TZOFFSETTO:+1000 TZNAME:AEST DTSTART:20240406T160000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+1000 TZOFFSETTO:+1100 TZNAME:AEDT DTSTART:20241005T160000 END:DAYLIGHT END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230521T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230521T200000 DTSTAMP:20260411T081934 CREATED:20230323T221945Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230516T011211Z UID:36143-1684695600-1684699200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Minerva's Secrets | Night Tours | Ballarat Heritage Festival (Originally scheduled 9pm-10pm) DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Léonie Kelsall \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n July 12\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n8:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$10 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 Homestead in the Eucalypts \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Léonie Kelsall. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sometimes finding the way forward means retracing your past. \n \n \n \n \n \n When student doctor Taylor Lawrence’s city life is turned upside down\, she seeks sanctuary on her grandparents’ farm in the South Australian countryside. During the lonely nights\, she fantasises of a time long-gone; of Anna\, who\, rising at dawn to milk the cows and fetch water from the well\, is caught in a bushfire that threatens to leave her reputation as blackened as the surrounding bushland. And of Anna’s rescuer\, fellow settler\, Luke Hartmann. Reality blurs as Taylor repeatedly escapes into Anna’s world\, and she realises she must discover whether her dreams are pure fantasy—or if they recount a story more familiar than she could ever imagine. Either way\, it seems she’ll end up with a broken mind or a broken heart. The problem is\, Taylor is no longer sure which she would prefer. An entrancing new rural romance from the bestselling author of The Blue Gum Camp. ‘Léonie Kelsall is becoming the voice of the South Australian rural outback.’ Beauty and Lace on The Blue Gum Camp.Praise for Léonie Kelsall:‘A great summer read—romance\, drama and laughs . . . from one of Australia’s best rural romance writers.’ Woman’s Day on The Blue Gum Camp ‘With complex and endearing characters who will steal your heart away\, these unputdownable books will have you turning the pages long into the night.’ Karly Lane\, bestselling author of For Once In My Life ‘Léonie Kelsall is my go-to when I want a gutsy rural fiction read.’ Darry Fraser\, author of The Milliner of Bendigo ‘Warm\, witty and brimming with big-hearted country characters\, renovations and romance. A fabulous\, feel-good rural read!’ Maya Linnell\, bestselling author of Kookaburra Cottage ‘A welcome return that offers plenty of happiness\, fun and heartbreak…with a wonderful message about letting go\, seizing the day and embracing all experiences on offer…I highly recommend.’ Mrs B’s Book Reviews ‘Written with warmth\, humour and sincerity\, offering appealing characters and an engaging story…a lovely read\, sure to satisfy.’ Book’d Out \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the Author \n \n Raised initially in a tiny\, no-horse town on South Australia’s Fleurieu coast\, then in the slightly more populated wheat and sheep farming land at Pallamana\, Léonie is a country girl through and through. Growing up without a television\, she developed a love of reading before she reached primary school\, swiftly followed by a desire to write. Pity the poor teachers who received chapters of creative writing instead of a single page! Léonie entertained a brief fantasy of moving to the big city (well\, Adelaide)\, but within months the lure of the open spaces and big sky country summoned her home. A registered wildlife rescuer and carer\, she now divides her time between the lush Adelaide Hills\, the location of her professional counselling practice\, and the stark\, arid beauty of the family farm at Pallamana\, which provides both the setting for many of her stories and a refuge for the rescues that can’t be released. Follow her social media for an overload of the fluffy\, fleecy\, furred and feathered inhabitants of her home and heart.Léonie is the bestselling author of The Farm at Peppertree Crossing\, The Wattle Seed Inn\, The River Gum Cottage\, The Willow Tree Wharf and The Blue Gum Camp. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. 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 Book here\n \n \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 BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarat National Theatre | Ballarat Times by Evie Lamb\n Lots to dig about The Dog Logs by Evie Lamb\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Twilight Talks 2026 | Ballarat Times by Evie Lamb\n BMI’s Twilight Talks Return by Evie Lamb\, Ballarat Times The... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n Peg Rankin: A Journey of Faith and Resilience Peter Rankin... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Executive Manager Update – April 2026\n Executive Manager Update – Nev Ivey Since commencing at BMI\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/minervas-secrets-night-tours-ballarat-heritage-festival-2/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Ballarat Heritage Festival,BMI Produced Event,Culture,The Collection ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/BMI_upshot_evening.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230521T140000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230521T160000 DTSTAMP:20260411T081934 CREATED:20230404T041607Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230404T041835Z UID:37396-1684677600-1684684800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Life Drawing in the Basement DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Léonie Kelsall \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n July 12\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n8:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$10 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 Homestead in the Eucalypts \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Léonie Kelsall. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sometimes finding the way forward means retracing your past. \n \n \n \n \n \n When student doctor Taylor Lawrence’s city life is turned upside down\, she seeks sanctuary on her grandparents’ farm in the South Australian countryside. During the lonely nights\, she fantasises of a time long-gone; of Anna\, who\, rising at dawn to milk the cows and fetch water from the well\, is caught in a bushfire that threatens to leave her reputation as blackened as the surrounding bushland. And of Anna’s rescuer\, fellow settler\, Luke Hartmann. Reality blurs as Taylor repeatedly escapes into Anna’s world\, and she realises she must discover whether her dreams are pure fantasy—or if they recount a story more familiar than she could ever imagine. Either way\, it seems she’ll end up with a broken mind or a broken heart. The problem is\, Taylor is no longer sure which she would prefer. An entrancing new rural romance from the bestselling author of The Blue Gum Camp. ‘Léonie Kelsall is becoming the voice of the South Australian rural outback.’ Beauty and Lace on The Blue Gum Camp.Praise for Léonie Kelsall:‘A great summer read—romance\, drama and laughs . . . from one of Australia’s best rural romance writers.’ Woman’s Day on The Blue Gum Camp ‘With complex and endearing characters who will steal your heart away\, these unputdownable books will have you turning the pages long into the night.’ Karly Lane\, bestselling author of For Once In My Life ‘Léonie Kelsall is my go-to when I want a gutsy rural fiction read.’ Darry Fraser\, author of The Milliner of Bendigo ‘Warm\, witty and brimming with big-hearted country characters\, renovations and romance. A fabulous\, feel-good rural read!’ Maya Linnell\, bestselling author of Kookaburra Cottage ‘A welcome return that offers plenty of happiness\, fun and heartbreak…with a wonderful message about letting go\, seizing the day and embracing all experiences on offer…I highly recommend.’ Mrs B’s Book Reviews ‘Written with warmth\, humour and sincerity\, offering appealing characters and an engaging story…a lovely read\, sure to satisfy.’ Book’d Out \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the Author \n \n Raised initially in a tiny\, no-horse town on South Australia’s Fleurieu coast\, then in the slightly more populated wheat and sheep farming land at Pallamana\, Léonie is a country girl through and through. Growing up without a television\, she developed a love of reading before she reached primary school\, swiftly followed by a desire to write. Pity the poor teachers who received chapters of creative writing instead of a single page! Léonie entertained a brief fantasy of moving to the big city (well\, Adelaide)\, but within months the lure of the open spaces and big sky country summoned her home. A registered wildlife rescuer and carer\, she now divides her time between the lush Adelaide Hills\, the location of her professional counselling practice\, and the stark\, arid beauty of the family farm at Pallamana\, which provides both the setting for many of her stories and a refuge for the rescues that can’t be released. Follow her social media for an overload of the fluffy\, fleecy\, furred and feathered inhabitants of her home and heart.Léonie is the bestselling author of The Farm at Peppertree Crossing\, The Wattle Seed Inn\, The River Gum Cottage\, The Willow Tree Wharf and The Blue Gum Camp. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. 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 Book here\n \n \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 BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarat National Theatre | Ballarat Times by Evie Lamb\n Lots to dig about The Dog Logs by Evie Lamb\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Twilight Talks 2026 | Ballarat Times by Evie Lamb\n BMI’s Twilight Talks Return by Evie Lamb\, Ballarat Times The... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n Peg Rankin: A Journey of Faith and Resilience Peter Rankin... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Executive Manager Update – April 2026\n Executive Manager Update – Nev Ivey Since commencing at BMI\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/life-drawing-in-the-basement-copy-copy-2/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Art programs,Ballarat Heritage Festival,BMI Produced Event,Culture ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/641b9c63dce404b6288d524a.jpeg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230521T110000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230521T160000 DTSTAMP:20260411T081934 CREATED:20230403T233853Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230404T040910Z UID:37166-1684666800-1684684800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Living Heritage Exhibition DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Léonie Kelsall \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n July 12\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n8:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$10 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 Homestead in the Eucalypts \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Léonie Kelsall. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sometimes finding the way forward means retracing your past. \n \n \n \n \n \n When student doctor Taylor Lawrence’s city life is turned upside down\, she seeks sanctuary on her grandparents’ farm in the South Australian countryside. During the lonely nights\, she fantasises of a time long-gone; of Anna\, who\, rising at dawn to milk the cows and fetch water from the well\, is caught in a bushfire that threatens to leave her reputation as blackened as the surrounding bushland. And of Anna’s rescuer\, fellow settler\, Luke Hartmann. Reality blurs as Taylor repeatedly escapes into Anna’s world\, and she realises she must discover whether her dreams are pure fantasy—or if they recount a story more familiar than she could ever imagine. Either way\, it seems she’ll end up with a broken mind or a broken heart. The problem is\, Taylor is no longer sure which she would prefer. An entrancing new rural romance from the bestselling author of The Blue Gum Camp. ‘Léonie Kelsall is becoming the voice of the South Australian rural outback.’ Beauty and Lace on The Blue Gum Camp.Praise for Léonie Kelsall:‘A great summer read—romance\, drama and laughs . . . from one of Australia’s best rural romance writers.’ Woman’s Day on The Blue Gum Camp ‘With complex and endearing characters who will steal your heart away\, these unputdownable books will have you turning the pages long into the night.’ Karly Lane\, bestselling author of For Once In My Life ‘Léonie Kelsall is my go-to when I want a gutsy rural fiction read.’ Darry Fraser\, author of The Milliner of Bendigo ‘Warm\, witty and brimming with big-hearted country characters\, renovations and romance. A fabulous\, feel-good rural read!’ Maya Linnell\, bestselling author of Kookaburra Cottage ‘A welcome return that offers plenty of happiness\, fun and heartbreak…with a wonderful message about letting go\, seizing the day and embracing all experiences on offer…I highly recommend.’ Mrs B’s Book Reviews ‘Written with warmth\, humour and sincerity\, offering appealing characters and an engaging story…a lovely read\, sure to satisfy.’ Book’d Out \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the Author \n \n Raised initially in a tiny\, no-horse town on South Australia’s Fleurieu coast\, then in the slightly more populated wheat and sheep farming land at Pallamana\, Léonie is a country girl through and through. Growing up without a television\, she developed a love of reading before she reached primary school\, swiftly followed by a desire to write. Pity the poor teachers who received chapters of creative writing instead of a single page! Léonie entertained a brief fantasy of moving to the big city (well\, Adelaide)\, but within months the lure of the open spaces and big sky country summoned her home. A registered wildlife rescuer and carer\, she now divides her time between the lush Adelaide Hills\, the location of her professional counselling practice\, and the stark\, arid beauty of the family farm at Pallamana\, which provides both the setting for many of her stories and a refuge for the rescues that can’t be released. Follow her social media for an overload of the fluffy\, fleecy\, furred and feathered inhabitants of her home and heart.Léonie is the bestselling author of The Farm at Peppertree Crossing\, The Wattle Seed Inn\, The River Gum Cottage\, The Willow Tree Wharf and The Blue Gum Camp. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. 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 Book here\n \n \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 BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarat National Theatre | Ballarat Times by Evie Lamb\n Lots to dig about The Dog Logs by Evie Lamb\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Twilight Talks 2026 | Ballarat Times by Evie Lamb\n BMI’s Twilight Talks Return by Evie Lamb\, Ballarat Times The... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n Peg Rankin: A Journey of Faith and Resilience Peter Rankin... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Executive Manager Update – April 2026\n Executive Manager Update – Nev Ivey Since commencing at BMI\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/living-heritage-ballaarat-mechanics-exhibition-copy/ LOCATION:Heritage Reading Room\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Art programs,Ballarat Heritage Festival,BMI Produced Event,Culture,Exhibition,The Collection ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/6413133691792ea538a2c867.jpeg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230521T103000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230521T120000 DTSTAMP:20260411T081934 CREATED:20230403T063758Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230420T045333Z UID:37129-1684665000-1684670400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:The Ballarat Courier Collection | Special Programs DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Léonie Kelsall \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n July 12\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n8:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$10 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 Homestead in the Eucalypts \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Léonie Kelsall. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sometimes finding the way forward means retracing your past. \n \n \n \n \n \n When student doctor Taylor Lawrence’s city life is turned upside down\, she seeks sanctuary on her grandparents’ farm in the South Australian countryside. During the lonely nights\, she fantasises of a time long-gone; of Anna\, who\, rising at dawn to milk the cows and fetch water from the well\, is caught in a bushfire that threatens to leave her reputation as blackened as the surrounding bushland. And of Anna’s rescuer\, fellow settler\, Luke Hartmann. Reality blurs as Taylor repeatedly escapes into Anna’s world\, and she realises she must discover whether her dreams are pure fantasy—or if they recount a story more familiar than she could ever imagine. Either way\, it seems she’ll end up with a broken mind or a broken heart. The problem is\, Taylor is no longer sure which she would prefer. An entrancing new rural romance from the bestselling author of The Blue Gum Camp. ‘Léonie Kelsall is becoming the voice of the South Australian rural outback.’ Beauty and Lace on The Blue Gum Camp.Praise for Léonie Kelsall:‘A great summer read—romance\, drama and laughs . . . from one of Australia’s best rural romance writers.’ Woman’s Day on The Blue Gum Camp ‘With complex and endearing characters who will steal your heart away\, these unputdownable books will have you turning the pages long into the night.’ Karly Lane\, bestselling author of For Once In My Life ‘Léonie Kelsall is my go-to when I want a gutsy rural fiction read.’ Darry Fraser\, author of The Milliner of Bendigo ‘Warm\, witty and brimming with big-hearted country characters\, renovations and romance. A fabulous\, feel-good rural read!’ Maya Linnell\, bestselling author of Kookaburra Cottage ‘A welcome return that offers plenty of happiness\, fun and heartbreak…with a wonderful message about letting go\, seizing the day and embracing all experiences on offer…I highly recommend.’ Mrs B’s Book Reviews ‘Written with warmth\, humour and sincerity\, offering appealing characters and an engaging story…a lovely read\, sure to satisfy.’ Book’d Out \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the Author \n \n Raised initially in a tiny\, no-horse town on South Australia’s Fleurieu coast\, then in the slightly more populated wheat and sheep farming land at Pallamana\, Léonie is a country girl through and through. Growing up without a television\, she developed a love of reading before she reached primary school\, swiftly followed by a desire to write. Pity the poor teachers who received chapters of creative writing instead of a single page! Léonie entertained a brief fantasy of moving to the big city (well\, Adelaide)\, but within months the lure of the open spaces and big sky country summoned her home. A registered wildlife rescuer and carer\, she now divides her time between the lush Adelaide Hills\, the location of her professional counselling practice\, and the stark\, arid beauty of the family farm at Pallamana\, which provides both the setting for many of her stories and a refuge for the rescues that can’t be released. Follow her social media for an overload of the fluffy\, fleecy\, furred and feathered inhabitants of her home and heart.Léonie is the bestselling author of The Farm at Peppertree Crossing\, The Wattle Seed Inn\, The River Gum Cottage\, The Willow Tree Wharf and The Blue Gum Camp. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. 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 Book here\n \n \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 BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarat National Theatre | Ballarat Times by Evie Lamb\n Lots to dig about The Dog Logs by Evie Lamb\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Twilight Talks 2026 | Ballarat Times by Evie Lamb\n BMI’s Twilight Talks Return by Evie Lamb\, Ballarat Times The... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n Peg Rankin: A Journey of Faith and Resilience Peter Rankin... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Executive Manager Update – April 2026\n Executive Manager Update – Nev Ivey Since commencing at BMI\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/the-ballarat-courier-collection-special-programs/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Art programs,Ballarat Heritage Festival,BMI Produced Event,Culture,Exhibition ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/ballarat-courier-11-september-1915-page-5-heritage-reading-room-4.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230520T235500 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230521T010000 DTSTAMP:20260411T081934 CREATED:20230323T221229Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230516T010919Z UID:36126-1684626900-1684630800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Minerva's Secrets | Night Tours | Ballarat Heritage Festival DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Léonie Kelsall \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n July 12\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n8:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$10 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 Homestead in the Eucalypts \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Léonie Kelsall. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sometimes finding the way forward means retracing your past. \n \n \n \n \n \n When student doctor Taylor Lawrence’s city life is turned upside down\, she seeks sanctuary on her grandparents’ farm in the South Australian countryside. During the lonely nights\, she fantasises of a time long-gone; of Anna\, who\, rising at dawn to milk the cows and fetch water from the well\, is caught in a bushfire that threatens to leave her reputation as blackened as the surrounding bushland. And of Anna’s rescuer\, fellow settler\, Luke Hartmann. Reality blurs as Taylor repeatedly escapes into Anna’s world\, and she realises she must discover whether her dreams are pure fantasy—or if they recount a story more familiar than she could ever imagine. Either way\, it seems she’ll end up with a broken mind or a broken heart. The problem is\, Taylor is no longer sure which she would prefer. An entrancing new rural romance from the bestselling author of The Blue Gum Camp. ‘Léonie Kelsall is becoming the voice of the South Australian rural outback.’ Beauty and Lace on The Blue Gum Camp.Praise for Léonie Kelsall:‘A great summer read—romance\, drama and laughs . . . from one of Australia’s best rural romance writers.’ Woman’s Day on The Blue Gum Camp ‘With complex and endearing characters who will steal your heart away\, these unputdownable books will have you turning the pages long into the night.’ Karly Lane\, bestselling author of For Once In My Life ‘Léonie Kelsall is my go-to when I want a gutsy rural fiction read.’ Darry Fraser\, author of The Milliner of Bendigo ‘Warm\, witty and brimming with big-hearted country characters\, renovations and romance. A fabulous\, feel-good rural read!’ Maya Linnell\, bestselling author of Kookaburra Cottage ‘A welcome return that offers plenty of happiness\, fun and heartbreak…with a wonderful message about letting go\, seizing the day and embracing all experiences on offer…I highly recommend.’ Mrs B’s Book Reviews ‘Written with warmth\, humour and sincerity\, offering appealing characters and an engaging story…a lovely read\, sure to satisfy.’ Book’d Out \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the Author \n \n Raised initially in a tiny\, no-horse town on South Australia’s Fleurieu coast\, then in the slightly more populated wheat and sheep farming land at Pallamana\, Léonie is a country girl through and through. Growing up without a television\, she developed a love of reading before she reached primary school\, swiftly followed by a desire to write. Pity the poor teachers who received chapters of creative writing instead of a single page! Léonie entertained a brief fantasy of moving to the big city (well\, Adelaide)\, but within months the lure of the open spaces and big sky country summoned her home. A registered wildlife rescuer and carer\, she now divides her time between the lush Adelaide Hills\, the location of her professional counselling practice\, and the stark\, arid beauty of the family farm at Pallamana\, which provides both the setting for many of her stories and a refuge for the rescues that can’t be released. Follow her social media for an overload of the fluffy\, fleecy\, furred and feathered inhabitants of her home and heart.Léonie is the bestselling author of The Farm at Peppertree Crossing\, The Wattle Seed Inn\, The River Gum Cottage\, The Willow Tree Wharf and The Blue Gum Camp. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. 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 Book here\n \n \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 BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarat National Theatre | Ballarat Times by Evie Lamb\n Lots to dig about The Dog Logs by Evie Lamb\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Twilight Talks 2026 | Ballarat Times by Evie Lamb\n BMI’s Twilight Talks Return by Evie Lamb\, Ballarat Times The... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n Peg Rankin: A Journey of Faith and Resilience Peter Rankin... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Executive Manager Update – April 2026\n Executive Manager Update – Nev Ivey Since commencing at BMI\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/minervas-secrets-night-tours-ballarat-heritage-festival/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Ballarat Heritage Festival,BMI Produced Event,Culture,The Collection ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/BMI_upshot_evening.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230520T120000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230520T210000 DTSTAMP:20260411T081934 CREATED:20230411T234830Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230421T020449Z UID:37851-1684584000-1684616400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Victorian Pinup Pageant 2023 & Revue de Ballarat DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Léonie Kelsall \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n July 12\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n8:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$10 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 Homestead in the Eucalypts \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Léonie Kelsall. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sometimes finding the way forward means retracing your past. \n \n \n \n \n \n When student doctor Taylor Lawrence’s city life is turned upside down\, she seeks sanctuary on her grandparents’ farm in the South Australian countryside. During the lonely nights\, she fantasises of a time long-gone; of Anna\, who\, rising at dawn to milk the cows and fetch water from the well\, is caught in a bushfire that threatens to leave her reputation as blackened as the surrounding bushland. And of Anna’s rescuer\, fellow settler\, Luke Hartmann. Reality blurs as Taylor repeatedly escapes into Anna’s world\, and she realises she must discover whether her dreams are pure fantasy—or if they recount a story more familiar than she could ever imagine. Either way\, it seems she’ll end up with a broken mind or a broken heart. The problem is\, Taylor is no longer sure which she would prefer. An entrancing new rural romance from the bestselling author of The Blue Gum Camp. ‘Léonie Kelsall is becoming the voice of the South Australian rural outback.’ Beauty and Lace on The Blue Gum Camp.Praise for Léonie Kelsall:‘A great summer read—romance\, drama and laughs . . . from one of Australia’s best rural romance writers.’ Woman’s Day on The Blue Gum Camp ‘With complex and endearing characters who will steal your heart away\, these unputdownable books will have you turning the pages long into the night.’ Karly Lane\, bestselling author of For Once In My Life ‘Léonie Kelsall is my go-to when I want a gutsy rural fiction read.’ Darry Fraser\, author of The Milliner of Bendigo ‘Warm\, witty and brimming with big-hearted country characters\, renovations and romance. A fabulous\, feel-good rural read!’ Maya Linnell\, bestselling author of Kookaburra Cottage ‘A welcome return that offers plenty of happiness\, fun and heartbreak…with a wonderful message about letting go\, seizing the day and embracing all experiences on offer…I highly recommend.’ Mrs B’s Book Reviews ‘Written with warmth\, humour and sincerity\, offering appealing characters and an engaging story…a lovely read\, sure to satisfy.’ Book’d Out \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the Author \n \n Raised initially in a tiny\, no-horse town on South Australia’s Fleurieu coast\, then in the slightly more populated wheat and sheep farming land at Pallamana\, Léonie is a country girl through and through. Growing up without a television\, she developed a love of reading before she reached primary school\, swiftly followed by a desire to write. Pity the poor teachers who received chapters of creative writing instead of a single page! Léonie entertained a brief fantasy of moving to the big city (well\, Adelaide)\, but within months the lure of the open spaces and big sky country summoned her home. A registered wildlife rescuer and carer\, she now divides her time between the lush Adelaide Hills\, the location of her professional counselling practice\, and the stark\, arid beauty of the family farm at Pallamana\, which provides both the setting for many of her stories and a refuge for the rescues that can’t be released. Follow her social media for an overload of the fluffy\, fleecy\, furred and feathered inhabitants of her home and heart.Léonie is the bestselling author of The Farm at Peppertree Crossing\, The Wattle Seed Inn\, The River Gum Cottage\, The Willow Tree Wharf and The Blue Gum Camp. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. 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 Book here\n \n \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 BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarat National Theatre | Ballarat Times by Evie Lamb\n Lots to dig about The Dog Logs by Evie Lamb\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Twilight Talks 2026 | Ballarat Times by Evie Lamb\n BMI’s Twilight Talks Return by Evie Lamb\, Ballarat Times The... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n Peg Rankin: A Journey of Faith and Resilience Peter Rankin... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Executive Manager Update – April 2026\n Executive Manager Update – Nev Ivey Since commencing at BMI\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/victorian-pinup-pageant-2023-and-revue-de-ballarat-her-majestys/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Ballarat Heritage Festival,Externally Produced Event,Theatre Production ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/pageant.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230520T110000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230520T160000 DTSTAMP:20260411T081934 CREATED:20230323T232803Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230404T040203Z UID:36181-1684580400-1684598400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Living Heritage Exhibition DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Léonie Kelsall \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n July 12\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n8:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$10 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 Homestead in the Eucalypts \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Léonie Kelsall. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sometimes finding the way forward means retracing your past. \n \n \n \n \n \n When student doctor Taylor Lawrence’s city life is turned upside down\, she seeks sanctuary on her grandparents’ farm in the South Australian countryside. During the lonely nights\, she fantasises of a time long-gone; of Anna\, who\, rising at dawn to milk the cows and fetch water from the well\, is caught in a bushfire that threatens to leave her reputation as blackened as the surrounding bushland. And of Anna’s rescuer\, fellow settler\, Luke Hartmann. Reality blurs as Taylor repeatedly escapes into Anna’s world\, and she realises she must discover whether her dreams are pure fantasy—or if they recount a story more familiar than she could ever imagine. Either way\, it seems she’ll end up with a broken mind or a broken heart. The problem is\, Taylor is no longer sure which she would prefer. An entrancing new rural romance from the bestselling author of The Blue Gum Camp. ‘Léonie Kelsall is becoming the voice of the South Australian rural outback.’ Beauty and Lace on The Blue Gum Camp.Praise for Léonie Kelsall:‘A great summer read—romance\, drama and laughs . . . from one of Australia’s best rural romance writers.’ Woman’s Day on The Blue Gum Camp ‘With complex and endearing characters who will steal your heart away\, these unputdownable books will have you turning the pages long into the night.’ Karly Lane\, bestselling author of For Once In My Life ‘Léonie Kelsall is my go-to when I want a gutsy rural fiction read.’ Darry Fraser\, author of The Milliner of Bendigo ‘Warm\, witty and brimming with big-hearted country characters\, renovations and romance. A fabulous\, feel-good rural read!’ Maya Linnell\, bestselling author of Kookaburra Cottage ‘A welcome return that offers plenty of happiness\, fun and heartbreak…with a wonderful message about letting go\, seizing the day and embracing all experiences on offer…I highly recommend.’ Mrs B’s Book Reviews ‘Written with warmth\, humour and sincerity\, offering appealing characters and an engaging story…a lovely read\, sure to satisfy.’ Book’d Out \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the Author \n \n Raised initially in a tiny\, no-horse town on South Australia’s Fleurieu coast\, then in the slightly more populated wheat and sheep farming land at Pallamana\, Léonie is a country girl through and through. Growing up without a television\, she developed a love of reading before she reached primary school\, swiftly followed by a desire to write. Pity the poor teachers who received chapters of creative writing instead of a single page! Léonie entertained a brief fantasy of moving to the big city (well\, Adelaide)\, but within months the lure of the open spaces and big sky country summoned her home. A registered wildlife rescuer and carer\, she now divides her time between the lush Adelaide Hills\, the location of her professional counselling practice\, and the stark\, arid beauty of the family farm at Pallamana\, which provides both the setting for many of her stories and a refuge for the rescues that can’t be released. Follow her social media for an overload of the fluffy\, fleecy\, furred and feathered inhabitants of her home and heart.Léonie is the bestselling author of The Farm at Peppertree Crossing\, The Wattle Seed Inn\, The River Gum Cottage\, The Willow Tree Wharf and The Blue Gum Camp. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. 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 Book here\n \n \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 BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarat National Theatre | Ballarat Times by Evie Lamb\n Lots to dig about The Dog Logs by Evie Lamb\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Twilight Talks 2026 | Ballarat Times by Evie Lamb\n BMI’s Twilight Talks Return by Evie Lamb\, Ballarat Times The... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n Peg Rankin: A Journey of Faith and Resilience Peter Rankin... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Executive Manager Update – April 2026\n Executive Manager Update – Nev Ivey Since commencing at BMI\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/living-heritage-ballaarat-mechanics-exhibition/ LOCATION:Heritage Reading Room\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Art programs,Ballarat Heritage Festival,BMI Produced Event,Culture,Exhibition,The Collection ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/6413133691792ea538a2c867.jpeg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230519T110000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230519T160000 DTSTAMP:20260411T081934 CREATED:20230323T224741Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230404T035806Z UID:36150-1684494000-1684512000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Living Heritage Exhibition DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Léonie Kelsall \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n July 12\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n8:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$10 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 Homestead in the Eucalypts \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Léonie Kelsall. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sometimes finding the way forward means retracing your past. \n \n \n \n \n \n When student doctor Taylor Lawrence’s city life is turned upside down\, she seeks sanctuary on her grandparents’ farm in the South Australian countryside. During the lonely nights\, she fantasises of a time long-gone; of Anna\, who\, rising at dawn to milk the cows and fetch water from the well\, is caught in a bushfire that threatens to leave her reputation as blackened as the surrounding bushland. And of Anna’s rescuer\, fellow settler\, Luke Hartmann. Reality blurs as Taylor repeatedly escapes into Anna’s world\, and she realises she must discover whether her dreams are pure fantasy—or if they recount a story more familiar than she could ever imagine. Either way\, it seems she’ll end up with a broken mind or a broken heart. The problem is\, Taylor is no longer sure which she would prefer. An entrancing new rural romance from the bestselling author of The Blue Gum Camp. ‘Léonie Kelsall is becoming the voice of the South Australian rural outback.’ Beauty and Lace on The Blue Gum Camp.Praise for Léonie Kelsall:‘A great summer read—romance\, drama and laughs . . . from one of Australia’s best rural romance writers.’ Woman’s Day on The Blue Gum Camp ‘With complex and endearing characters who will steal your heart away\, these unputdownable books will have you turning the pages long into the night.’ Karly Lane\, bestselling author of For Once In My Life ‘Léonie Kelsall is my go-to when I want a gutsy rural fiction read.’ Darry Fraser\, author of The Milliner of Bendigo ‘Warm\, witty and brimming with big-hearted country characters\, renovations and romance. A fabulous\, feel-good rural read!’ Maya Linnell\, bestselling author of Kookaburra Cottage ‘A welcome return that offers plenty of happiness\, fun and heartbreak…with a wonderful message about letting go\, seizing the day and embracing all experiences on offer…I highly recommend.’ Mrs B’s Book Reviews ‘Written with warmth\, humour and sincerity\, offering appealing characters and an engaging story…a lovely read\, sure to satisfy.’ Book’d Out \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the Author \n \n Raised initially in a tiny\, no-horse town on South Australia’s Fleurieu coast\, then in the slightly more populated wheat and sheep farming land at Pallamana\, Léonie is a country girl through and through. Growing up without a television\, she developed a love of reading before she reached primary school\, swiftly followed by a desire to write. Pity the poor teachers who received chapters of creative writing instead of a single page! Léonie entertained a brief fantasy of moving to the big city (well\, Adelaide)\, but within months the lure of the open spaces and big sky country summoned her home. A registered wildlife rescuer and carer\, she now divides her time between the lush Adelaide Hills\, the location of her professional counselling practice\, and the stark\, arid beauty of the family farm at Pallamana\, which provides both the setting for many of her stories and a refuge for the rescues that can’t be released. Follow her social media for an overload of the fluffy\, fleecy\, furred and feathered inhabitants of her home and heart.Léonie is the bestselling author of The Farm at Peppertree Crossing\, The Wattle Seed Inn\, The River Gum Cottage\, The Willow Tree Wharf and The Blue Gum Camp. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. 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 Book here\n \n \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 BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarat National Theatre | Ballarat Times by Evie Lamb\n Lots to dig about The Dog Logs by Evie Lamb\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Twilight Talks 2026 | Ballarat Times by Evie Lamb\n BMI’s Twilight Talks Return by Evie Lamb\, Ballarat Times The... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n Peg Rankin: A Journey of Faith and Resilience Peter Rankin... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Executive Manager Update – April 2026\n Executive Manager Update – Nev Ivey Since commencing at BMI\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/living-heritage-at-the-ballaarat-mechanics-institute-exhibition/ LOCATION:Heritage Reading Room\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Art programs,Ballarat Heritage Festival,BMI Produced Event,Culture,Exhibition,The Collection ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/6413133691792ea538a2c867.jpeg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230519T103000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230519T120000 DTSTAMP:20260411T081934 CREATED:20230322T052316Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230426T002837Z UID:35957-1684492200-1684497600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:The Heritage Collection | Special Program DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Léonie Kelsall \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n July 12\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n8:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$10 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 Homestead in the Eucalypts \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Léonie Kelsall. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sometimes finding the way forward means retracing your past. \n \n \n \n \n \n When student doctor Taylor Lawrence’s city life is turned upside down\, she seeks sanctuary on her grandparents’ farm in the South Australian countryside. During the lonely nights\, she fantasises of a time long-gone; of Anna\, who\, rising at dawn to milk the cows and fetch water from the well\, is caught in a bushfire that threatens to leave her reputation as blackened as the surrounding bushland. And of Anna’s rescuer\, fellow settler\, Luke Hartmann. Reality blurs as Taylor repeatedly escapes into Anna’s world\, and she realises she must discover whether her dreams are pure fantasy—or if they recount a story more familiar than she could ever imagine. Either way\, it seems she’ll end up with a broken mind or a broken heart. The problem is\, Taylor is no longer sure which she would prefer. An entrancing new rural romance from the bestselling author of The Blue Gum Camp. ‘Léonie Kelsall is becoming the voice of the South Australian rural outback.’ Beauty and Lace on The Blue Gum Camp.Praise for Léonie Kelsall:‘A great summer read—romance\, drama and laughs . . . from one of Australia’s best rural romance writers.’ Woman’s Day on The Blue Gum Camp ‘With complex and endearing characters who will steal your heart away\, these unputdownable books will have you turning the pages long into the night.’ Karly Lane\, bestselling author of For Once In My Life ‘Léonie Kelsall is my go-to when I want a gutsy rural fiction read.’ Darry Fraser\, author of The Milliner of Bendigo ‘Warm\, witty and brimming with big-hearted country characters\, renovations and romance. A fabulous\, feel-good rural read!’ Maya Linnell\, bestselling author of Kookaburra Cottage ‘A welcome return that offers plenty of happiness\, fun and heartbreak…with a wonderful message about letting go\, seizing the day and embracing all experiences on offer…I highly recommend.’ Mrs B’s Book Reviews ‘Written with warmth\, humour and sincerity\, offering appealing characters and an engaging story…a lovely read\, sure to satisfy.’ Book’d Out \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the Author \n \n Raised initially in a tiny\, no-horse town on South Australia’s Fleurieu coast\, then in the slightly more populated wheat and sheep farming land at Pallamana\, Léonie is a country girl through and through. Growing up without a television\, she developed a love of reading before she reached primary school\, swiftly followed by a desire to write. Pity the poor teachers who received chapters of creative writing instead of a single page! Léonie entertained a brief fantasy of moving to the big city (well\, Adelaide)\, but within months the lure of the open spaces and big sky country summoned her home. A registered wildlife rescuer and carer\, she now divides her time between the lush Adelaide Hills\, the location of her professional counselling practice\, and the stark\, arid beauty of the family farm at Pallamana\, which provides both the setting for many of her stories and a refuge for the rescues that can’t be released. Follow her social media for an overload of the fluffy\, fleecy\, furred and feathered inhabitants of her home and heart.Léonie is the bestselling author of The Farm at Peppertree Crossing\, The Wattle Seed Inn\, The River Gum Cottage\, The Willow Tree Wharf and The Blue Gum Camp. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. 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 Book here\n \n \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 BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarat National Theatre | Ballarat Times by Evie Lamb\n Lots to dig about The Dog Logs by Evie Lamb\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Twilight Talks 2026 | Ballarat Times by Evie Lamb\n BMI’s Twilight Talks Return by Evie Lamb\, Ballarat Times The... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n Peg Rankin: A Journey of Faith and Resilience Peter Rankin... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Executive Manager Update – April 2026\n Executive Manager Update – Nev Ivey Since commencing at BMI\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/the-heritage-collection-special-program/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Art programs,Ballarat Heritage Festival,BMI Produced Event,Culture,Exhibition ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/641315e3602909f94cc8096a.jpeg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230518T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230518T210000 DTSTAMP:20260411T081934 CREATED:20230202T030347Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230912T011423Z UID:33952-1684438200-1684443600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Ballarat Film Society - A Hero (Ghahreman) DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Léonie Kelsall \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n July 12\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n8:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$10 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 Homestead in the Eucalypts \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Léonie Kelsall. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sometimes finding the way forward means retracing your past. \n \n \n \n \n \n When student doctor Taylor Lawrence’s city life is turned upside down\, she seeks sanctuary on her grandparents’ farm in the South Australian countryside. During the lonely nights\, she fantasises of a time long-gone; of Anna\, who\, rising at dawn to milk the cows and fetch water from the well\, is caught in a bushfire that threatens to leave her reputation as blackened as the surrounding bushland. And of Anna’s rescuer\, fellow settler\, Luke Hartmann. Reality blurs as Taylor repeatedly escapes into Anna’s world\, and she realises she must discover whether her dreams are pure fantasy—or if they recount a story more familiar than she could ever imagine. Either way\, it seems she’ll end up with a broken mind or a broken heart. The problem is\, Taylor is no longer sure which she would prefer. An entrancing new rural romance from the bestselling author of The Blue Gum Camp. ‘Léonie Kelsall is becoming the voice of the South Australian rural outback.’ Beauty and Lace on The Blue Gum Camp.Praise for Léonie Kelsall:‘A great summer read—romance\, drama and laughs . . . from one of Australia’s best rural romance writers.’ Woman’s Day on The Blue Gum Camp ‘With complex and endearing characters who will steal your heart away\, these unputdownable books will have you turning the pages long into the night.’ Karly Lane\, bestselling author of For Once In My Life ‘Léonie Kelsall is my go-to when I want a gutsy rural fiction read.’ Darry Fraser\, author of The Milliner of Bendigo ‘Warm\, witty and brimming with big-hearted country characters\, renovations and romance. A fabulous\, feel-good rural read!’ Maya Linnell\, bestselling author of Kookaburra Cottage ‘A welcome return that offers plenty of happiness\, fun and heartbreak…with a wonderful message about letting go\, seizing the day and embracing all experiences on offer…I highly recommend.’ Mrs B’s Book Reviews ‘Written with warmth\, humour and sincerity\, offering appealing characters and an engaging story…a lovely read\, sure to satisfy.’ Book’d Out \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the Author \n \n Raised initially in a tiny\, no-horse town on South Australia’s Fleurieu coast\, then in the slightly more populated wheat and sheep farming land at Pallamana\, Léonie is a country girl through and through. Growing up without a television\, she developed a love of reading before she reached primary school\, swiftly followed by a desire to write. Pity the poor teachers who received chapters of creative writing instead of a single page! Léonie entertained a brief fantasy of moving to the big city (well\, Adelaide)\, but within months the lure of the open spaces and big sky country summoned her home. A registered wildlife rescuer and carer\, she now divides her time between the lush Adelaide Hills\, the location of her professional counselling practice\, and the stark\, arid beauty of the family farm at Pallamana\, which provides both the setting for many of her stories and a refuge for the rescues that can’t be released. Follow her social media for an overload of the fluffy\, fleecy\, furred and feathered inhabitants of her home and heart.Léonie is the bestselling author of The Farm at Peppertree Crossing\, The Wattle Seed Inn\, The River Gum Cottage\, The Willow Tree Wharf and The Blue Gum Camp. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. 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 Book here\n \n \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 BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarat National Theatre | Ballarat Times by Evie Lamb\n Lots to dig about The Dog Logs by Evie Lamb\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Twilight Talks 2026 | Ballarat Times by Evie Lamb\n BMI’s Twilight Talks Return by Evie Lamb\, Ballarat Times The... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n Peg Rankin: A Journey of Faith and Resilience Peter Rankin... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Executive Manager Update – April 2026\n Executive Manager Update – Nev Ivey Since commencing at BMI\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/bfs-ahero/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Ballarat Film Society,Externally Produced Event,Film ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/hero01-e1675307277220.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230516T140000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230516T150000 DTSTAMP:20260411T081934 CREATED:20230515T053426Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230515T053446Z UID:39816-1684245600-1684249200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Day Tour of the Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Léonie Kelsall \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n July 12\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n8:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$10 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 Homestead in the Eucalypts \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Léonie Kelsall. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sometimes finding the way forward means retracing your past. \n \n \n \n \n \n When student doctor Taylor Lawrence’s city life is turned upside down\, she seeks sanctuary on her grandparents’ farm in the South Australian countryside. During the lonely nights\, she fantasises of a time long-gone; of Anna\, who\, rising at dawn to milk the cows and fetch water from the well\, is caught in a bushfire that threatens to leave her reputation as blackened as the surrounding bushland. And of Anna’s rescuer\, fellow settler\, Luke Hartmann. Reality blurs as Taylor repeatedly escapes into Anna’s world\, and she realises she must discover whether her dreams are pure fantasy—or if they recount a story more familiar than she could ever imagine. Either way\, it seems she’ll end up with a broken mind or a broken heart. The problem is\, Taylor is no longer sure which she would prefer. An entrancing new rural romance from the bestselling author of The Blue Gum Camp. ‘Léonie Kelsall is becoming the voice of the South Australian rural outback.’ Beauty and Lace on The Blue Gum Camp.Praise for Léonie Kelsall:‘A great summer read—romance\, drama and laughs . . . from one of Australia’s best rural romance writers.’ Woman’s Day on The Blue Gum Camp ‘With complex and endearing characters who will steal your heart away\, these unputdownable books will have you turning the pages long into the night.’ Karly Lane\, bestselling author of For Once In My Life ‘Léonie Kelsall is my go-to when I want a gutsy rural fiction read.’ Darry Fraser\, author of The Milliner of Bendigo ‘Warm\, witty and brimming with big-hearted country characters\, renovations and romance. A fabulous\, feel-good rural read!’ Maya Linnell\, bestselling author of Kookaburra Cottage ‘A welcome return that offers plenty of happiness\, fun and heartbreak…with a wonderful message about letting go\, seizing the day and embracing all experiences on offer…I highly recommend.’ Mrs B’s Book Reviews ‘Written with warmth\, humour and sincerity\, offering appealing characters and an engaging story…a lovely read\, sure to satisfy.’ Book’d Out \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the Author \n \n Raised initially in a tiny\, no-horse town on South Australia’s Fleurieu coast\, then in the slightly more populated wheat and sheep farming land at Pallamana\, Léonie is a country girl through and through. Growing up without a television\, she developed a love of reading before she reached primary school\, swiftly followed by a desire to write. Pity the poor teachers who received chapters of creative writing instead of a single page! Léonie entertained a brief fantasy of moving to the big city (well\, Adelaide)\, but within months the lure of the open spaces and big sky country summoned her home. A registered wildlife rescuer and carer\, she now divides her time between the lush Adelaide Hills\, the location of her professional counselling practice\, and the stark\, arid beauty of the family farm at Pallamana\, which provides both the setting for many of her stories and a refuge for the rescues that can’t be released. Follow her social media for an overload of the fluffy\, fleecy\, furred and feathered inhabitants of her home and heart.Léonie is the bestselling author of The Farm at Peppertree Crossing\, The Wattle Seed Inn\, The River Gum Cottage\, The Willow Tree Wharf and The Blue Gum Camp. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. 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 Book here\n \n \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 BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarat National Theatre | Ballarat Times by Evie Lamb\n Lots to dig about The Dog Logs by Evie Lamb\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Twilight Talks 2026 | Ballarat Times by Evie Lamb\n BMI’s Twilight Talks Return by Evie Lamb\, Ballarat Times The... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n Peg Rankin: A Journey of Faith and Resilience Peter Rankin... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Executive Manager Update – April 2026\n Executive Manager Update – Nev Ivey Since commencing at BMI\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/tours-of-ballarat-mechanics-institute-heritage-2/ LOCATION:Library Ground Floor\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:BMI Produced Event,Culture,Tours ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/BMI-facade.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230510T173000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230510T190000 DTSTAMP:20260411T081934 CREATED:20230321T025736Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230505T002500Z UID:35687-1683739800-1683745200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Twilight Talks 2023 | Season 2\, Session 2 DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Léonie Kelsall \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n July 12\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n8:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$10 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 Homestead in the Eucalypts \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Léonie Kelsall. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sometimes finding the way forward means retracing your past. \n \n \n \n \n \n When student doctor Taylor Lawrence’s city life is turned upside down\, she seeks sanctuary on her grandparents’ farm in the South Australian countryside. During the lonely nights\, she fantasises of a time long-gone; of Anna\, who\, rising at dawn to milk the cows and fetch water from the well\, is caught in a bushfire that threatens to leave her reputation as blackened as the surrounding bushland. And of Anna’s rescuer\, fellow settler\, Luke Hartmann. Reality blurs as Taylor repeatedly escapes into Anna’s world\, and she realises she must discover whether her dreams are pure fantasy—or if they recount a story more familiar than she could ever imagine. Either way\, it seems she’ll end up with a broken mind or a broken heart. The problem is\, Taylor is no longer sure which she would prefer. An entrancing new rural romance from the bestselling author of The Blue Gum Camp. ‘Léonie Kelsall is becoming the voice of the South Australian rural outback.’ Beauty and Lace on The Blue Gum Camp.Praise for Léonie Kelsall:‘A great summer read—romance\, drama and laughs . . . from one of Australia’s best rural romance writers.’ Woman’s Day on The Blue Gum Camp ‘With complex and endearing characters who will steal your heart away\, these unputdownable books will have you turning the pages long into the night.’ Karly Lane\, bestselling author of For Once In My Life ‘Léonie Kelsall is my go-to when I want a gutsy rural fiction read.’ Darry Fraser\, author of The Milliner of Bendigo ‘Warm\, witty and brimming with big-hearted country characters\, renovations and romance. A fabulous\, feel-good rural read!’ Maya Linnell\, bestselling author of Kookaburra Cottage ‘A welcome return that offers plenty of happiness\, fun and heartbreak…with a wonderful message about letting go\, seizing the day and embracing all experiences on offer…I highly recommend.’ Mrs B’s Book Reviews ‘Written with warmth\, humour and sincerity\, offering appealing characters and an engaging story…a lovely read\, sure to satisfy.’ Book’d Out \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the Author \n \n Raised initially in a tiny\, no-horse town on South Australia’s Fleurieu coast\, then in the slightly more populated wheat and sheep farming land at Pallamana\, Léonie is a country girl through and through. Growing up without a television\, she developed a love of reading before she reached primary school\, swiftly followed by a desire to write. Pity the poor teachers who received chapters of creative writing instead of a single page! Léonie entertained a brief fantasy of moving to the big city (well\, Adelaide)\, but within months the lure of the open spaces and big sky country summoned her home. A registered wildlife rescuer and carer\, she now divides her time between the lush Adelaide Hills\, the location of her professional counselling practice\, and the stark\, arid beauty of the family farm at Pallamana\, which provides both the setting for many of her stories and a refuge for the rescues that can’t be released. Follow her social media for an overload of the fluffy\, fleecy\, furred and feathered inhabitants of her home and heart.Léonie is the bestselling author of The Farm at Peppertree Crossing\, The Wattle Seed Inn\, The River Gum Cottage\, The Willow Tree Wharf and The Blue Gum Camp. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. 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 Book here\n \n \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 BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarat National Theatre | Ballarat Times by Evie Lamb\n Lots to dig about The Dog Logs by Evie Lamb\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Twilight Talks 2026 | Ballarat Times by Evie Lamb\n BMI’s Twilight Talks Return by Evie Lamb\, Ballarat Times The... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n Peg Rankin: A Journey of Faith and Resilience Peter Rankin... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Executive Manager Update – April 2026\n Executive Manager Update – Nev Ivey Since commencing at BMI\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/twilight-talks-season-2-ballarat-heritage-festival-4/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Ballarat Heritage Festival,Culture,The Collection,Twilight Talks ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/twilight-talks-gold-black-2023.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230328T140000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230328T150000 DTSTAMP:20260411T081934 CREATED:20230327T231124Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230328T222715Z UID:36550-1680012000-1680015600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Day Tour of the Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Léonie Kelsall \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n July 12\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n8:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$10 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 Homestead in the Eucalypts \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Léonie Kelsall. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sometimes finding the way forward means retracing your past. \n \n \n \n \n \n When student doctor Taylor Lawrence’s city life is turned upside down\, she seeks sanctuary on her grandparents’ farm in the South Australian countryside. During the lonely nights\, she fantasises of a time long-gone; of Anna\, who\, rising at dawn to milk the cows and fetch water from the well\, is caught in a bushfire that threatens to leave her reputation as blackened as the surrounding bushland. And of Anna’s rescuer\, fellow settler\, Luke Hartmann. Reality blurs as Taylor repeatedly escapes into Anna’s world\, and she realises she must discover whether her dreams are pure fantasy—or if they recount a story more familiar than she could ever imagine. Either way\, it seems she’ll end up with a broken mind or a broken heart. The problem is\, Taylor is no longer sure which she would prefer. An entrancing new rural romance from the bestselling author of The Blue Gum Camp. ‘Léonie Kelsall is becoming the voice of the South Australian rural outback.’ Beauty and Lace on The Blue Gum Camp.Praise for Léonie Kelsall:‘A great summer read—romance\, drama and laughs . . . from one of Australia’s best rural romance writers.’ Woman’s Day on The Blue Gum Camp ‘With complex and endearing characters who will steal your heart away\, these unputdownable books will have you turning the pages long into the night.’ Karly Lane\, bestselling author of For Once In My Life ‘Léonie Kelsall is my go-to when I want a gutsy rural fiction read.’ Darry Fraser\, author of The Milliner of Bendigo ‘Warm\, witty and brimming with big-hearted country characters\, renovations and romance. A fabulous\, feel-good rural read!’ Maya Linnell\, bestselling author of Kookaburra Cottage ‘A welcome return that offers plenty of happiness\, fun and heartbreak…with a wonderful message about letting go\, seizing the day and embracing all experiences on offer…I highly recommend.’ Mrs B’s Book Reviews ‘Written with warmth\, humour and sincerity\, offering appealing characters and an engaging story…a lovely read\, sure to satisfy.’ Book’d Out \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the Author \n \n Raised initially in a tiny\, no-horse town on South Australia’s Fleurieu coast\, then in the slightly more populated wheat and sheep farming land at Pallamana\, Léonie is a country girl through and through. Growing up without a television\, she developed a love of reading before she reached primary school\, swiftly followed by a desire to write. Pity the poor teachers who received chapters of creative writing instead of a single page! Léonie entertained a brief fantasy of moving to the big city (well\, Adelaide)\, but within months the lure of the open spaces and big sky country summoned her home. A registered wildlife rescuer and carer\, she now divides her time between the lush Adelaide Hills\, the location of her professional counselling practice\, and the stark\, arid beauty of the family farm at Pallamana\, which provides both the setting for many of her stories and a refuge for the rescues that can’t be released. Follow her social media for an overload of the fluffy\, fleecy\, furred and feathered inhabitants of her home and heart.Léonie is the bestselling author of The Farm at Peppertree Crossing\, The Wattle Seed Inn\, The River Gum Cottage\, The Willow Tree Wharf and The Blue Gum Camp. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. 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 Book here\n \n \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 BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarat National Theatre | Ballarat Times by Evie Lamb\n Lots to dig about The Dog Logs by Evie Lamb\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Twilight Talks 2026 | Ballarat Times by Evie Lamb\n BMI’s Twilight Talks Return by Evie Lamb\, Ballarat Times The... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n Peg Rankin: A Journey of Faith and Resilience Peter Rankin... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Executive Manager Update – April 2026\n Executive Manager Update – Nev Ivey Since commencing at BMI\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/tours-of-ballarat-mechanics-institute-heritage/ LOCATION:Library Ground Floor\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:BMI Produced Event,Culture,Tours ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/tours-banner-draft-cropped.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230503T173000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230503T190000 DTSTAMP:20260411T081934 CREATED:20230321T055028Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230425T230806Z UID:35753-1683135000-1683140400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Twilight Talks 2023 | Season 2\, Session 1 DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Léonie Kelsall \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n July 12\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n8:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$10 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 Homestead in the Eucalypts \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Léonie Kelsall. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sometimes finding the way forward means retracing your past. \n \n \n \n \n \n When student doctor Taylor Lawrence’s city life is turned upside down\, she seeks sanctuary on her grandparents’ farm in the South Australian countryside. During the lonely nights\, she fantasises of a time long-gone; of Anna\, who\, rising at dawn to milk the cows and fetch water from the well\, is caught in a bushfire that threatens to leave her reputation as blackened as the surrounding bushland. And of Anna’s rescuer\, fellow settler\, Luke Hartmann. Reality blurs as Taylor repeatedly escapes into Anna’s world\, and she realises she must discover whether her dreams are pure fantasy—or if they recount a story more familiar than she could ever imagine. Either way\, it seems she’ll end up with a broken mind or a broken heart. The problem is\, Taylor is no longer sure which she would prefer. An entrancing new rural romance from the bestselling author of The Blue Gum Camp. ‘Léonie Kelsall is becoming the voice of the South Australian rural outback.’ Beauty and Lace on The Blue Gum Camp.Praise for Léonie Kelsall:‘A great summer read—romance\, drama and laughs . . . from one of Australia’s best rural romance writers.’ Woman’s Day on The Blue Gum Camp ‘With complex and endearing characters who will steal your heart away\, these unputdownable books will have you turning the pages long into the night.’ Karly Lane\, bestselling author of For Once In My Life ‘Léonie Kelsall is my go-to when I want a gutsy rural fiction read.’ Darry Fraser\, author of The Milliner of Bendigo ‘Warm\, witty and brimming with big-hearted country characters\, renovations and romance. A fabulous\, feel-good rural read!’ Maya Linnell\, bestselling author of Kookaburra Cottage ‘A welcome return that offers plenty of happiness\, fun and heartbreak…with a wonderful message about letting go\, seizing the day and embracing all experiences on offer…I highly recommend.’ Mrs B’s Book Reviews ‘Written with warmth\, humour and sincerity\, offering appealing characters and an engaging story…a lovely read\, sure to satisfy.’ Book’d Out \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the Author \n \n Raised initially in a tiny\, no-horse town on South Australia’s Fleurieu coast\, then in the slightly more populated wheat and sheep farming land at Pallamana\, Léonie is a country girl through and through. Growing up without a television\, she developed a love of reading before she reached primary school\, swiftly followed by a desire to write. Pity the poor teachers who received chapters of creative writing instead of a single page! Léonie entertained a brief fantasy of moving to the big city (well\, Adelaide)\, but within months the lure of the open spaces and big sky country summoned her home. A registered wildlife rescuer and carer\, she now divides her time between the lush Adelaide Hills\, the location of her professional counselling practice\, and the stark\, arid beauty of the family farm at Pallamana\, which provides both the setting for many of her stories and a refuge for the rescues that can’t be released. Follow her social media for an overload of the fluffy\, fleecy\, furred and feathered inhabitants of her home and heart.Léonie is the bestselling author of The Farm at Peppertree Crossing\, The Wattle Seed Inn\, The River Gum Cottage\, The Willow Tree Wharf and The Blue Gum Camp. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. 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 Book here\n \n \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 BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarat National Theatre | Ballarat Times by Evie Lamb\n Lots to dig about The Dog Logs by Evie Lamb\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Twilight Talks 2026 | Ballarat Times by Evie Lamb\n BMI’s Twilight Talks Return by Evie Lamb\, Ballarat Times The... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n Peg Rankin: A Journey of Faith and Resilience Peter Rankin... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Executive Manager Update – April 2026\n Executive Manager Update – Nev Ivey Since commencing at BMI\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/twilight-talks-season-2-ballarat-heritage-festival-3-may-2023-2/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Ballarat Heritage Festival,Culture,The Collection,Twilight Talks ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/twilight-talks-gold-black-2023.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230328T140000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230328T150000 DTSTAMP:20260411T081934 CREATED:20230327T231124Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230328T222715Z UID:36550-1680012000-1680015600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Day Tour of the Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Léonie Kelsall \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n July 12\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n8:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$10 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 Homestead in the Eucalypts \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Léonie Kelsall. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sometimes finding the way forward means retracing your past. \n \n \n \n \n \n When student doctor Taylor Lawrence’s city life is turned upside down\, she seeks sanctuary on her grandparents’ farm in the South Australian countryside. During the lonely nights\, she fantasises of a time long-gone; of Anna\, who\, rising at dawn to milk the cows and fetch water from the well\, is caught in a bushfire that threatens to leave her reputation as blackened as the surrounding bushland. And of Anna’s rescuer\, fellow settler\, Luke Hartmann. Reality blurs as Taylor repeatedly escapes into Anna’s world\, and she realises she must discover whether her dreams are pure fantasy—or if they recount a story more familiar than she could ever imagine. Either way\, it seems she’ll end up with a broken mind or a broken heart. The problem is\, Taylor is no longer sure which she would prefer. An entrancing new rural romance from the bestselling author of The Blue Gum Camp. ‘Léonie Kelsall is becoming the voice of the South Australian rural outback.’ Beauty and Lace on The Blue Gum Camp.Praise for Léonie Kelsall:‘A great summer read—romance\, drama and laughs . . . from one of Australia’s best rural romance writers.’ Woman’s Day on The Blue Gum Camp ‘With complex and endearing characters who will steal your heart away\, these unputdownable books will have you turning the pages long into the night.’ Karly Lane\, bestselling author of For Once In My Life ‘Léonie Kelsall is my go-to when I want a gutsy rural fiction read.’ Darry Fraser\, author of The Milliner of Bendigo ‘Warm\, witty and brimming with big-hearted country characters\, renovations and romance. A fabulous\, feel-good rural read!’ Maya Linnell\, bestselling author of Kookaburra Cottage ‘A welcome return that offers plenty of happiness\, fun and heartbreak…with a wonderful message about letting go\, seizing the day and embracing all experiences on offer…I highly recommend.’ Mrs B’s Book Reviews ‘Written with warmth\, humour and sincerity\, offering appealing characters and an engaging story…a lovely read\, sure to satisfy.’ Book’d Out \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the Author \n \n Raised initially in a tiny\, no-horse town on South Australia’s Fleurieu coast\, then in the slightly more populated wheat and sheep farming land at Pallamana\, Léonie is a country girl through and through. Growing up without a television\, she developed a love of reading before she reached primary school\, swiftly followed by a desire to write. Pity the poor teachers who received chapters of creative writing instead of a single page! Léonie entertained a brief fantasy of moving to the big city (well\, Adelaide)\, but within months the lure of the open spaces and big sky country summoned her home. A registered wildlife rescuer and carer\, she now divides her time between the lush Adelaide Hills\, the location of her professional counselling practice\, and the stark\, arid beauty of the family farm at Pallamana\, which provides both the setting for many of her stories and a refuge for the rescues that can’t be released. Follow her social media for an overload of the fluffy\, fleecy\, furred and feathered inhabitants of her home and heart.Léonie is the bestselling author of The Farm at Peppertree Crossing\, The Wattle Seed Inn\, The River Gum Cottage\, The Willow Tree Wharf and The Blue Gum Camp. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. 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 Book here\n \n \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 BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarat National Theatre | Ballarat Times by Evie Lamb\n Lots to dig about The Dog Logs by Evie Lamb\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Twilight Talks 2026 | Ballarat Times by Evie Lamb\n BMI’s Twilight Talks Return by Evie Lamb\, Ballarat Times The... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n Peg Rankin: A Journey of Faith and Resilience Peter Rankin... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Executive Manager Update – April 2026\n Executive Manager Update – Nev Ivey Since commencing at BMI\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/tours-of-ballarat-mechanics-institute-heritage/ LOCATION:Library Ground Floor\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:BMI Produced Event,Culture,Tours ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/tours-banner-draft-cropped.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230502T103000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230502T113000 DTSTAMP:20260411T081934 CREATED:20230327T230710Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230329T222016Z UID:36544-1683023400-1683027000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:The Reading Room DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Léonie Kelsall \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n July 12\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n8:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$10 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 Homestead in the Eucalypts \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Léonie Kelsall. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sometimes finding the way forward means retracing your past. \n \n \n \n \n \n When student doctor Taylor Lawrence’s city life is turned upside down\, she seeks sanctuary on her grandparents’ farm in the South Australian countryside. During the lonely nights\, she fantasises of a time long-gone; of Anna\, who\, rising at dawn to milk the cows and fetch water from the well\, is caught in a bushfire that threatens to leave her reputation as blackened as the surrounding bushland. And of Anna’s rescuer\, fellow settler\, Luke Hartmann. Reality blurs as Taylor repeatedly escapes into Anna’s world\, and she realises she must discover whether her dreams are pure fantasy—or if they recount a story more familiar than she could ever imagine. Either way\, it seems she’ll end up with a broken mind or a broken heart. The problem is\, Taylor is no longer sure which she would prefer. An entrancing new rural romance from the bestselling author of The Blue Gum Camp. ‘Léonie Kelsall is becoming the voice of the South Australian rural outback.’ Beauty and Lace on The Blue Gum Camp.Praise for Léonie Kelsall:‘A great summer read—romance\, drama and laughs . . . from one of Australia’s best rural romance writers.’ Woman’s Day on The Blue Gum Camp ‘With complex and endearing characters who will steal your heart away\, these unputdownable books will have you turning the pages long into the night.’ Karly Lane\, bestselling author of For Once In My Life ‘Léonie Kelsall is my go-to when I want a gutsy rural fiction read.’ Darry Fraser\, author of The Milliner of Bendigo ‘Warm\, witty and brimming with big-hearted country characters\, renovations and romance. A fabulous\, feel-good rural read!’ Maya Linnell\, bestselling author of Kookaburra Cottage ‘A welcome return that offers plenty of happiness\, fun and heartbreak…with a wonderful message about letting go\, seizing the day and embracing all experiences on offer…I highly recommend.’ Mrs B’s Book Reviews ‘Written with warmth\, humour and sincerity\, offering appealing characters and an engaging story…a lovely read\, sure to satisfy.’ Book’d Out \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the Author \n \n Raised initially in a tiny\, no-horse town on South Australia’s Fleurieu coast\, then in the slightly more populated wheat and sheep farming land at Pallamana\, Léonie is a country girl through and through. Growing up without a television\, she developed a love of reading before she reached primary school\, swiftly followed by a desire to write. Pity the poor teachers who received chapters of creative writing instead of a single page! Léonie entertained a brief fantasy of moving to the big city (well\, Adelaide)\, but within months the lure of the open spaces and big sky country summoned her home. A registered wildlife rescuer and carer\, she now divides her time between the lush Adelaide Hills\, the location of her professional counselling practice\, and the stark\, arid beauty of the family farm at Pallamana\, which provides both the setting for many of her stories and a refuge for the rescues that can’t be released. Follow her social media for an overload of the fluffy\, fleecy\, furred and feathered inhabitants of her home and heart.Léonie is the bestselling author of The Farm at Peppertree Crossing\, The Wattle Seed Inn\, The River Gum Cottage\, The Willow Tree Wharf and The Blue Gum Camp. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. 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 Book here\n \n \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 BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarat National Theatre | Ballarat Times by Evie Lamb\n Lots to dig about The Dog Logs by Evie Lamb\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Twilight Talks 2026 | Ballarat Times by Evie Lamb\n BMI’s Twilight Talks Return by Evie Lamb\, Ballarat Times The... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n Peg Rankin: A Journey of Faith and Resilience Peter Rankin... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Executive Manager Update – April 2026\n Executive Manager Update – Nev Ivey Since commencing at BMI\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/the-reading-room-book-discussion-2/ LOCATION:Heritage Reading Room\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Art programs,BMI Produced Event,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Reading_room_adjusted-e1704770529709.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230501T103000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230501T143000 DTSTAMP:20260411T081934 CREATED:20230328T024519Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230412T033854Z UID:36692-1682937000-1682951400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Digitisation Workshop | AMaGa | Geraldine Brault DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Léonie Kelsall \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n July 12\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n8:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$10 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 Homestead in the Eucalypts \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Léonie Kelsall. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sometimes finding the way forward means retracing your past. \n \n \n \n \n \n When student doctor Taylor Lawrence’s city life is turned upside down\, she seeks sanctuary on her grandparents’ farm in the South Australian countryside. During the lonely nights\, she fantasises of a time long-gone; of Anna\, who\, rising at dawn to milk the cows and fetch water from the well\, is caught in a bushfire that threatens to leave her reputation as blackened as the surrounding bushland. And of Anna’s rescuer\, fellow settler\, Luke Hartmann. Reality blurs as Taylor repeatedly escapes into Anna’s world\, and she realises she must discover whether her dreams are pure fantasy—or if they recount a story more familiar than she could ever imagine. Either way\, it seems she’ll end up with a broken mind or a broken heart. The problem is\, Taylor is no longer sure which she would prefer. An entrancing new rural romance from the bestselling author of The Blue Gum Camp. ‘Léonie Kelsall is becoming the voice of the South Australian rural outback.’ Beauty and Lace on The Blue Gum Camp.Praise for Léonie Kelsall:‘A great summer read—romance\, drama and laughs . . . from one of Australia’s best rural romance writers.’ Woman’s Day on The Blue Gum Camp ‘With complex and endearing characters who will steal your heart away\, these unputdownable books will have you turning the pages long into the night.’ Karly Lane\, bestselling author of For Once In My Life ‘Léonie Kelsall is my go-to when I want a gutsy rural fiction read.’ Darry Fraser\, author of The Milliner of Bendigo ‘Warm\, witty and brimming with big-hearted country characters\, renovations and romance. A fabulous\, feel-good rural read!’ Maya Linnell\, bestselling author of Kookaburra Cottage ‘A welcome return that offers plenty of happiness\, fun and heartbreak…with a wonderful message about letting go\, seizing the day and embracing all experiences on offer…I highly recommend.’ Mrs B’s Book Reviews ‘Written with warmth\, humour and sincerity\, offering appealing characters and an engaging story…a lovely read\, sure to satisfy.’ Book’d Out \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the Author \n \n Raised initially in a tiny\, no-horse town on South Australia’s Fleurieu coast\, then in the slightly more populated wheat and sheep farming land at Pallamana\, Léonie is a country girl through and through. Growing up without a television\, she developed a love of reading before she reached primary school\, swiftly followed by a desire to write. Pity the poor teachers who received chapters of creative writing instead of a single page! Léonie entertained a brief fantasy of moving to the big city (well\, Adelaide)\, but within months the lure of the open spaces and big sky country summoned her home. A registered wildlife rescuer and carer\, she now divides her time between the lush Adelaide Hills\, the location of her professional counselling practice\, and the stark\, arid beauty of the family farm at Pallamana\, which provides both the setting for many of her stories and a refuge for the rescues that can’t be released. Follow her social media for an overload of the fluffy\, fleecy\, furred and feathered inhabitants of her home and heart.Léonie is the bestselling author of The Farm at Peppertree Crossing\, The Wattle Seed Inn\, The River Gum Cottage\, The Willow Tree Wharf and The Blue Gum Camp. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. 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 Book here\n \n \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 BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarat National Theatre | Ballarat Times by Evie Lamb\n Lots to dig about The Dog Logs by Evie Lamb\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Twilight Talks 2026 | Ballarat Times by Evie Lamb\n BMI’s Twilight Talks Return by Evie Lamb\, Ballarat Times The... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n Peg Rankin: A Journey of Faith and Resilience Peter Rankin... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Executive Manager Update – April 2026\n Executive Manager Update – Nev Ivey Since commencing at BMI\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/digitisation-workshop-amaga-geraldine-brault-session-1/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Art programs,Culture,Exhibition ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/hands-on-digitisation-2.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230430T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230430T220000 DTSTAMP:20260411T081934 CREATED:20230221T003406Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230221T003522Z UID:34698-1682883000-1682892000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow | Ballarat DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Léonie Kelsall \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n July 12\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n8:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$10 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 Homestead in the Eucalypts \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Léonie Kelsall. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sometimes finding the way forward means retracing your past. \n \n \n \n \n \n When student doctor Taylor Lawrence’s city life is turned upside down\, she seeks sanctuary on her grandparents’ farm in the South Australian countryside. During the lonely nights\, she fantasises of a time long-gone; of Anna\, who\, rising at dawn to milk the cows and fetch water from the well\, is caught in a bushfire that threatens to leave her reputation as blackened as the surrounding bushland. And of Anna’s rescuer\, fellow settler\, Luke Hartmann. Reality blurs as Taylor repeatedly escapes into Anna’s world\, and she realises she must discover whether her dreams are pure fantasy—or if they recount a story more familiar than she could ever imagine. Either way\, it seems she’ll end up with a broken mind or a broken heart. The problem is\, Taylor is no longer sure which she would prefer. An entrancing new rural romance from the bestselling author of The Blue Gum Camp. ‘Léonie Kelsall is becoming the voice of the South Australian rural outback.’ Beauty and Lace on The Blue Gum Camp.Praise for Léonie Kelsall:‘A great summer read—romance\, drama and laughs . . . from one of Australia’s best rural romance writers.’ Woman’s Day on The Blue Gum Camp ‘With complex and endearing characters who will steal your heart away\, these unputdownable books will have you turning the pages long into the night.’ Karly Lane\, bestselling author of For Once In My Life ‘Léonie Kelsall is my go-to when I want a gutsy rural fiction read.’ Darry Fraser\, author of The Milliner of Bendigo ‘Warm\, witty and brimming with big-hearted country characters\, renovations and romance. A fabulous\, feel-good rural read!’ Maya Linnell\, bestselling author of Kookaburra Cottage ‘A welcome return that offers plenty of happiness\, fun and heartbreak…with a wonderful message about letting go\, seizing the day and embracing all experiences on offer…I highly recommend.’ Mrs B’s Book Reviews ‘Written with warmth\, humour and sincerity\, offering appealing characters and an engaging story…a lovely read\, sure to satisfy.’ Book’d Out \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the Author \n \n Raised initially in a tiny\, no-horse town on South Australia’s Fleurieu coast\, then in the slightly more populated wheat and sheep farming land at Pallamana\, Léonie is a country girl through and through. Growing up without a television\, she developed a love of reading before she reached primary school\, swiftly followed by a desire to write. Pity the poor teachers who received chapters of creative writing instead of a single page! Léonie entertained a brief fantasy of moving to the big city (well\, Adelaide)\, but within months the lure of the open spaces and big sky country summoned her home. A registered wildlife rescuer and carer\, she now divides her time between the lush Adelaide Hills\, the location of her professional counselling practice\, and the stark\, arid beauty of the family farm at Pallamana\, which provides both the setting for many of her stories and a refuge for the rescues that can’t be released. Follow her social media for an overload of the fluffy\, fleecy\, furred and feathered inhabitants of her home and heart.Léonie is the bestselling author of The Farm at Peppertree Crossing\, The Wattle Seed Inn\, The River Gum Cottage\, The Willow Tree Wharf and The Blue Gum Camp. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. 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 Book here\n \n \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 BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarat National Theatre | Ballarat Times by Evie Lamb\n Lots to dig about The Dog Logs by Evie Lamb\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Twilight Talks 2026 | Ballarat Times by Evie Lamb\n BMI’s Twilight Talks Return by Evie Lamb\, Ballarat Times The... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n Peg Rankin: A Journey of Faith and Resilience Peter Rankin... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Executive Manager Update – April 2026\n Executive Manager Update – Nev Ivey Since commencing at BMI\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/micfroadshow2023/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Comedy,Externally Produced Event ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/FB_Header-01-e1676939589744.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230428T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230428T200000 DTSTAMP:20260411T081934 CREATED:20230310T034250Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230327T215854Z UID:35019-1682708400-1682712000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Meet the Author | Olivia Wearne & Elizabeth Coleman DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Léonie Kelsall \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n July 12\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n8:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$10 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 Homestead in the Eucalypts \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Léonie Kelsall. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sometimes finding the way forward means retracing your past. \n \n \n \n \n \n When student doctor Taylor Lawrence’s city life is turned upside down\, she seeks sanctuary on her grandparents’ farm in the South Australian countryside. During the lonely nights\, she fantasises of a time long-gone; of Anna\, who\, rising at dawn to milk the cows and fetch water from the well\, is caught in a bushfire that threatens to leave her reputation as blackened as the surrounding bushland. And of Anna’s rescuer\, fellow settler\, Luke Hartmann. Reality blurs as Taylor repeatedly escapes into Anna’s world\, and she realises she must discover whether her dreams are pure fantasy—or if they recount a story more familiar than she could ever imagine. Either way\, it seems she’ll end up with a broken mind or a broken heart. The problem is\, Taylor is no longer sure which she would prefer. An entrancing new rural romance from the bestselling author of The Blue Gum Camp. ‘Léonie Kelsall is becoming the voice of the South Australian rural outback.’ Beauty and Lace on The Blue Gum Camp.Praise for Léonie Kelsall:‘A great summer read—romance\, drama and laughs . . . from one of Australia’s best rural romance writers.’ Woman’s Day on The Blue Gum Camp ‘With complex and endearing characters who will steal your heart away\, these unputdownable books will have you turning the pages long into the night.’ Karly Lane\, bestselling author of For Once In My Life ‘Léonie Kelsall is my go-to when I want a gutsy rural fiction read.’ Darry Fraser\, author of The Milliner of Bendigo ‘Warm\, witty and brimming with big-hearted country characters\, renovations and romance. A fabulous\, feel-good rural read!’ Maya Linnell\, bestselling author of Kookaburra Cottage ‘A welcome return that offers plenty of happiness\, fun and heartbreak…with a wonderful message about letting go\, seizing the day and embracing all experiences on offer…I highly recommend.’ Mrs B’s Book Reviews ‘Written with warmth\, humour and sincerity\, offering appealing characters and an engaging story…a lovely read\, sure to satisfy.’ Book’d Out \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the Author \n \n Raised initially in a tiny\, no-horse town on South Australia’s Fleurieu coast\, then in the slightly more populated wheat and sheep farming land at Pallamana\, Léonie is a country girl through and through. Growing up without a television\, she developed a love of reading before she reached primary school\, swiftly followed by a desire to write. Pity the poor teachers who received chapters of creative writing instead of a single page! Léonie entertained a brief fantasy of moving to the big city (well\, Adelaide)\, but within months the lure of the open spaces and big sky country summoned her home. A registered wildlife rescuer and carer\, she now divides her time between the lush Adelaide Hills\, the location of her professional counselling practice\, and the stark\, arid beauty of the family farm at Pallamana\, which provides both the setting for many of her stories and a refuge for the rescues that can’t be released. Follow her social media for an overload of the fluffy\, fleecy\, furred and feathered inhabitants of her home and heart.Léonie is the bestselling author of The Farm at Peppertree Crossing\, The Wattle Seed Inn\, The River Gum Cottage\, The Willow Tree Wharf and The Blue Gum Camp. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. 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 Book here\n \n \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 BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarat National Theatre | Ballarat Times by Evie Lamb\n Lots to dig about The Dog Logs by Evie Lamb\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Twilight Talks 2026 | Ballarat Times by Evie Lamb\n BMI’s Twilight Talks Return by Evie Lamb\, Ballarat Times The... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n Peg Rankin: A Journey of Faith and Resilience Peter Rankin... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Executive Manager Update – April 2026\n Executive Manager Update – Nev Ivey Since commencing at BMI\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/meet-the-author-elizabeth-coleman-olivia-wearne/ LOCATION:Heritage Reading Room\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Art programs,Culture,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/event-listing-2.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230328T140000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230328T150000 DTSTAMP:20260411T081934 CREATED:20230327T231124Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230328T222715Z UID:36550-1680012000-1680015600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Day Tour of the Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Léonie Kelsall \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n July 12\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n8:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$10 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 Homestead in the Eucalypts \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Léonie Kelsall. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sometimes finding the way forward means retracing your past. \n \n \n \n \n \n When student doctor Taylor Lawrence’s city life is turned upside down\, she seeks sanctuary on her grandparents’ farm in the South Australian countryside. During the lonely nights\, she fantasises of a time long-gone; of Anna\, who\, rising at dawn to milk the cows and fetch water from the well\, is caught in a bushfire that threatens to leave her reputation as blackened as the surrounding bushland. And of Anna’s rescuer\, fellow settler\, Luke Hartmann. Reality blurs as Taylor repeatedly escapes into Anna’s world\, and she realises she must discover whether her dreams are pure fantasy—or if they recount a story more familiar than she could ever imagine. Either way\, it seems she’ll end up with a broken mind or a broken heart. The problem is\, Taylor is no longer sure which she would prefer. An entrancing new rural romance from the bestselling author of The Blue Gum Camp. ‘Léonie Kelsall is becoming the voice of the South Australian rural outback.’ Beauty and Lace on The Blue Gum Camp.Praise for Léonie Kelsall:‘A great summer read—romance\, drama and laughs . . . from one of Australia’s best rural romance writers.’ Woman’s Day on The Blue Gum Camp ‘With complex and endearing characters who will steal your heart away\, these unputdownable books will have you turning the pages long into the night.’ Karly Lane\, bestselling author of For Once In My Life ‘Léonie Kelsall is my go-to when I want a gutsy rural fiction read.’ Darry Fraser\, author of The Milliner of Bendigo ‘Warm\, witty and brimming with big-hearted country characters\, renovations and romance. A fabulous\, feel-good rural read!’ Maya Linnell\, bestselling author of Kookaburra Cottage ‘A welcome return that offers plenty of happiness\, fun and heartbreak…with a wonderful message about letting go\, seizing the day and embracing all experiences on offer…I highly recommend.’ Mrs B’s Book Reviews ‘Written with warmth\, humour and sincerity\, offering appealing characters and an engaging story…a lovely read\, sure to satisfy.’ Book’d Out \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the Author \n \n Raised initially in a tiny\, no-horse town on South Australia’s Fleurieu coast\, then in the slightly more populated wheat and sheep farming land at Pallamana\, Léonie is a country girl through and through. Growing up without a television\, she developed a love of reading before she reached primary school\, swiftly followed by a desire to write. Pity the poor teachers who received chapters of creative writing instead of a single page! Léonie entertained a brief fantasy of moving to the big city (well\, Adelaide)\, but within months the lure of the open spaces and big sky country summoned her home. A registered wildlife rescuer and carer\, she now divides her time between the lush Adelaide Hills\, the location of her professional counselling practice\, and the stark\, arid beauty of the family farm at Pallamana\, which provides both the setting for many of her stories and a refuge for the rescues that can’t be released. Follow her social media for an overload of the fluffy\, fleecy\, furred and feathered inhabitants of her home and heart.Léonie is the bestselling author of The Farm at Peppertree Crossing\, The Wattle Seed Inn\, The River Gum Cottage\, The Willow Tree Wharf and The Blue Gum Camp. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. 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 Book here\n \n \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 BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarat National Theatre | Ballarat Times by Evie Lamb\n Lots to dig about The Dog Logs by Evie Lamb\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Twilight Talks 2026 | Ballarat Times by Evie Lamb\n BMI’s Twilight Talks Return by Evie Lamb\, Ballarat Times The... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n Peg Rankin: A Journey of Faith and Resilience Peter Rankin... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Executive Manager Update – April 2026\n Executive Manager Update – Nev Ivey Since commencing at BMI\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/tours-of-ballarat-mechanics-institute-heritage/ LOCATION:Library Ground Floor\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:BMI Produced Event,Culture,Tours ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/tours-banner-draft-cropped.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230328T140000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230328T150000 DTSTAMP:20260411T081934 CREATED:20230327T231124Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230328T222715Z UID:36550-1680012000-1680015600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Day Tour of the Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Léonie Kelsall \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n July 12\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n8:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$10 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 Homestead in the Eucalypts \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Léonie Kelsall. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sometimes finding the way forward means retracing your past. \n \n \n \n \n \n When student doctor Taylor Lawrence’s city life is turned upside down\, she seeks sanctuary on her grandparents’ farm in the South Australian countryside. During the lonely nights\, she fantasises of a time long-gone; of Anna\, who\, rising at dawn to milk the cows and fetch water from the well\, is caught in a bushfire that threatens to leave her reputation as blackened as the surrounding bushland. And of Anna’s rescuer\, fellow settler\, Luke Hartmann. Reality blurs as Taylor repeatedly escapes into Anna’s world\, and she realises she must discover whether her dreams are pure fantasy—or if they recount a story more familiar than she could ever imagine. Either way\, it seems she’ll end up with a broken mind or a broken heart. The problem is\, Taylor is no longer sure which she would prefer. An entrancing new rural romance from the bestselling author of The Blue Gum Camp. ‘Léonie Kelsall is becoming the voice of the South Australian rural outback.’ Beauty and Lace on The Blue Gum Camp.Praise for Léonie Kelsall:‘A great summer read—romance\, drama and laughs . . . from one of Australia’s best rural romance writers.’ Woman’s Day on The Blue Gum Camp ‘With complex and endearing characters who will steal your heart away\, these unputdownable books will have you turning the pages long into the night.’ Karly Lane\, bestselling author of For Once In My Life ‘Léonie Kelsall is my go-to when I want a gutsy rural fiction read.’ Darry Fraser\, author of The Milliner of Bendigo ‘Warm\, witty and brimming with big-hearted country characters\, renovations and romance. A fabulous\, feel-good rural read!’ Maya Linnell\, bestselling author of Kookaburra Cottage ‘A welcome return that offers plenty of happiness\, fun and heartbreak…with a wonderful message about letting go\, seizing the day and embracing all experiences on offer…I highly recommend.’ Mrs B’s Book Reviews ‘Written with warmth\, humour and sincerity\, offering appealing characters and an engaging story…a lovely read\, sure to satisfy.’ Book’d Out \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the Author \n \n Raised initially in a tiny\, no-horse town on South Australia’s Fleurieu coast\, then in the slightly more populated wheat and sheep farming land at Pallamana\, Léonie is a country girl through and through. Growing up without a television\, she developed a love of reading before she reached primary school\, swiftly followed by a desire to write. Pity the poor teachers who received chapters of creative writing instead of a single page! Léonie entertained a brief fantasy of moving to the big city (well\, Adelaide)\, but within months the lure of the open spaces and big sky country summoned her home. A registered wildlife rescuer and carer\, she now divides her time between the lush Adelaide Hills\, the location of her professional counselling practice\, and the stark\, arid beauty of the family farm at Pallamana\, which provides both the setting for many of her stories and a refuge for the rescues that can’t be released. Follow her social media for an overload of the fluffy\, fleecy\, furred and feathered inhabitants of her home and heart.Léonie is the bestselling author of The Farm at Peppertree Crossing\, The Wattle Seed Inn\, The River Gum Cottage\, The Willow Tree Wharf and The Blue Gum Camp. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. 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 Book here\n \n \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 BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarat National Theatre | Ballarat Times by Evie Lamb\n Lots to dig about The Dog Logs by Evie Lamb\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Twilight Talks 2026 | Ballarat Times by Evie Lamb\n BMI’s Twilight Talks Return by Evie Lamb\, Ballarat Times The... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n Peg Rankin: A Journey of Faith and Resilience Peter Rankin... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Executive Manager Update – April 2026\n Executive Manager Update – Nev Ivey Since commencing at BMI\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/tours-of-ballarat-mechanics-institute-heritage/ LOCATION:Library Ground Floor\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:BMI Produced Event,Culture,Tours ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/tours-banner-draft-cropped.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230416T090000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230416T140000 DTSTAMP:20260411T081934 CREATED:20230309T005139Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230317T002839Z UID:34979-1681635600-1681653600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:BMI Autumn Maker Market DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Léonie Kelsall \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n July 12\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n8:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$10 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 Homestead in the Eucalypts \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Léonie Kelsall. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sometimes finding the way forward means retracing your past. \n \n \n \n \n \n When student doctor Taylor Lawrence’s city life is turned upside down\, she seeks sanctuary on her grandparents’ farm in the South Australian countryside. During the lonely nights\, she fantasises of a time long-gone; of Anna\, who\, rising at dawn to milk the cows and fetch water from the well\, is caught in a bushfire that threatens to leave her reputation as blackened as the surrounding bushland. And of Anna’s rescuer\, fellow settler\, Luke Hartmann. Reality blurs as Taylor repeatedly escapes into Anna’s world\, and she realises she must discover whether her dreams are pure fantasy—or if they recount a story more familiar than she could ever imagine. Either way\, it seems she’ll end up with a broken mind or a broken heart. The problem is\, Taylor is no longer sure which she would prefer. An entrancing new rural romance from the bestselling author of The Blue Gum Camp. ‘Léonie Kelsall is becoming the voice of the South Australian rural outback.’ Beauty and Lace on The Blue Gum Camp.Praise for Léonie Kelsall:‘A great summer read—romance\, drama and laughs . . . from one of Australia’s best rural romance writers.’ Woman’s Day on The Blue Gum Camp ‘With complex and endearing characters who will steal your heart away\, these unputdownable books will have you turning the pages long into the night.’ Karly Lane\, bestselling author of For Once In My Life ‘Léonie Kelsall is my go-to when I want a gutsy rural fiction read.’ Darry Fraser\, author of The Milliner of Bendigo ‘Warm\, witty and brimming with big-hearted country characters\, renovations and romance. A fabulous\, feel-good rural read!’ Maya Linnell\, bestselling author of Kookaburra Cottage ‘A welcome return that offers plenty of happiness\, fun and heartbreak…with a wonderful message about letting go\, seizing the day and embracing all experiences on offer…I highly recommend.’ Mrs B’s Book Reviews ‘Written with warmth\, humour and sincerity\, offering appealing characters and an engaging story…a lovely read\, sure to satisfy.’ Book’d Out \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the Author \n \n Raised initially in a tiny\, no-horse town on South Australia’s Fleurieu coast\, then in the slightly more populated wheat and sheep farming land at Pallamana\, Léonie is a country girl through and through. Growing up without a television\, she developed a love of reading before she reached primary school\, swiftly followed by a desire to write. Pity the poor teachers who received chapters of creative writing instead of a single page! Léonie entertained a brief fantasy of moving to the big city (well\, Adelaide)\, but within months the lure of the open spaces and big sky country summoned her home. A registered wildlife rescuer and carer\, she now divides her time between the lush Adelaide Hills\, the location of her professional counselling practice\, and the stark\, arid beauty of the family farm at Pallamana\, which provides both the setting for many of her stories and a refuge for the rescues that can’t be released. Follow her social media for an overload of the fluffy\, fleecy\, furred and feathered inhabitants of her home and heart.Léonie is the bestselling author of The Farm at Peppertree Crossing\, The Wattle Seed Inn\, The River Gum Cottage\, The Willow Tree Wharf and The Blue Gum Camp. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. 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 Book here\n \n \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 BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarat National Theatre | Ballarat Times by Evie Lamb\n Lots to dig about The Dog Logs by Evie Lamb\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Twilight Talks 2026 | Ballarat Times by Evie Lamb\n BMI’s Twilight Talks Return by Evie Lamb\, Ballarat Times The... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n Peg Rankin: A Journey of Faith and Resilience Peter Rankin... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Executive Manager Update – April 2026\n Executive Manager Update – Nev Ivey Since commencing at BMI\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/bmi-autumn-maker-market/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:BMI Produced Event,Market ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/maker_image-e1628392488945.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230415T090000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230416T140000 DTSTAMP:20260411T081934 CREATED:20230310T045900Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230317T002615Z UID:35050-1681549200-1681653600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:BMI Autumn Book Sale DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Léonie Kelsall \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n July 12\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n8:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$10 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 Homestead in the Eucalypts \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Léonie Kelsall. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sometimes finding the way forward means retracing your past. \n \n \n \n \n \n When student doctor Taylor Lawrence’s city life is turned upside down\, she seeks sanctuary on her grandparents’ farm in the South Australian countryside. During the lonely nights\, she fantasises of a time long-gone; of Anna\, who\, rising at dawn to milk the cows and fetch water from the well\, is caught in a bushfire that threatens to leave her reputation as blackened as the surrounding bushland. And of Anna’s rescuer\, fellow settler\, Luke Hartmann. Reality blurs as Taylor repeatedly escapes into Anna’s world\, and she realises she must discover whether her dreams are pure fantasy—or if they recount a story more familiar than she could ever imagine. Either way\, it seems she’ll end up with a broken mind or a broken heart. The problem is\, Taylor is no longer sure which she would prefer. An entrancing new rural romance from the bestselling author of The Blue Gum Camp. ‘Léonie Kelsall is becoming the voice of the South Australian rural outback.’ Beauty and Lace on The Blue Gum Camp.Praise for Léonie Kelsall:‘A great summer read—romance\, drama and laughs . . . from one of Australia’s best rural romance writers.’ Woman’s Day on The Blue Gum Camp ‘With complex and endearing characters who will steal your heart away\, these unputdownable books will have you turning the pages long into the night.’ Karly Lane\, bestselling author of For Once In My Life ‘Léonie Kelsall is my go-to when I want a gutsy rural fiction read.’ Darry Fraser\, author of The Milliner of Bendigo ‘Warm\, witty and brimming with big-hearted country characters\, renovations and romance. A fabulous\, feel-good rural read!’ Maya Linnell\, bestselling author of Kookaburra Cottage ‘A welcome return that offers plenty of happiness\, fun and heartbreak…with a wonderful message about letting go\, seizing the day and embracing all experiences on offer…I highly recommend.’ Mrs B’s Book Reviews ‘Written with warmth\, humour and sincerity\, offering appealing characters and an engaging story…a lovely read\, sure to satisfy.’ Book’d Out \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the Author \n \n Raised initially in a tiny\, no-horse town on South Australia’s Fleurieu coast\, then in the slightly more populated wheat and sheep farming land at Pallamana\, Léonie is a country girl through and through. Growing up without a television\, she developed a love of reading before she reached primary school\, swiftly followed by a desire to write. Pity the poor teachers who received chapters of creative writing instead of a single page! Léonie entertained a brief fantasy of moving to the big city (well\, Adelaide)\, but within months the lure of the open spaces and big sky country summoned her home. A registered wildlife rescuer and carer\, she now divides her time between the lush Adelaide Hills\, the location of her professional counselling practice\, and the stark\, arid beauty of the family farm at Pallamana\, which provides both the setting for many of her stories and a refuge for the rescues that can’t be released. Follow her social media for an overload of the fluffy\, fleecy\, furred and feathered inhabitants of her home and heart.Léonie is the bestselling author of The Farm at Peppertree Crossing\, The Wattle Seed Inn\, The River Gum Cottage\, The Willow Tree Wharf and The Blue Gum Camp. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. 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 Book here\n \n \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 BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarat National Theatre | Ballarat Times by Evie Lamb\n Lots to dig about The Dog Logs by Evie Lamb\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Twilight Talks 2026 | Ballarat Times by Evie Lamb\n BMI’s Twilight Talks Return by Evie Lamb\, Ballarat Times The... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n Peg Rankin: A Journey of Faith and Resilience Peter Rankin... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Executive Manager Update – April 2026\n Executive Manager Update – Nev Ivey Since commencing at BMI\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/bmi-autumn-book-sale/ LOCATION:Library Ground Floor\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:BMI Produced Event,Culture,Fundraiser,Library,Market ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/IMG-0851-e1678425194379.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230414T170000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230414T183000 DTSTAMP:20260411T081934 CREATED:20230315T023507Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230317T002330Z UID:35114-1681491600-1681497000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Book Launch | Look Back on Languor: The memoir of a hurkle-durkle Australian male DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Léonie Kelsall \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n July 12\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n8:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$10 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 Homestead in the Eucalypts \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Léonie Kelsall. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sometimes finding the way forward means retracing your past. \n \n \n \n \n \n When student doctor Taylor Lawrence’s city life is turned upside down\, she seeks sanctuary on her grandparents’ farm in the South Australian countryside. During the lonely nights\, she fantasises of a time long-gone; of Anna\, who\, rising at dawn to milk the cows and fetch water from the well\, is caught in a bushfire that threatens to leave her reputation as blackened as the surrounding bushland. And of Anna’s rescuer\, fellow settler\, Luke Hartmann. Reality blurs as Taylor repeatedly escapes into Anna’s world\, and she realises she must discover whether her dreams are pure fantasy—or if they recount a story more familiar than she could ever imagine. Either way\, it seems she’ll end up with a broken mind or a broken heart. The problem is\, Taylor is no longer sure which she would prefer. An entrancing new rural romance from the bestselling author of The Blue Gum Camp. ‘Léonie Kelsall is becoming the voice of the South Australian rural outback.’ Beauty and Lace on The Blue Gum Camp.Praise for Léonie Kelsall:‘A great summer read—romance\, drama and laughs . . . from one of Australia’s best rural romance writers.’ Woman’s Day on The Blue Gum Camp ‘With complex and endearing characters who will steal your heart away\, these unputdownable books will have you turning the pages long into the night.’ Karly Lane\, bestselling author of For Once In My Life ‘Léonie Kelsall is my go-to when I want a gutsy rural fiction read.’ Darry Fraser\, author of The Milliner of Bendigo ‘Warm\, witty and brimming with big-hearted country characters\, renovations and romance. A fabulous\, feel-good rural read!’ Maya Linnell\, bestselling author of Kookaburra Cottage ‘A welcome return that offers plenty of happiness\, fun and heartbreak…with a wonderful message about letting go\, seizing the day and embracing all experiences on offer…I highly recommend.’ Mrs B’s Book Reviews ‘Written with warmth\, humour and sincerity\, offering appealing characters and an engaging story…a lovely read\, sure to satisfy.’ Book’d Out \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the Author \n \n Raised initially in a tiny\, no-horse town on South Australia’s Fleurieu coast\, then in the slightly more populated wheat and sheep farming land at Pallamana\, Léonie is a country girl through and through. Growing up without a television\, she developed a love of reading before she reached primary school\, swiftly followed by a desire to write. Pity the poor teachers who received chapters of creative writing instead of a single page! Léonie entertained a brief fantasy of moving to the big city (well\, Adelaide)\, but within months the lure of the open spaces and big sky country summoned her home. A registered wildlife rescuer and carer\, she now divides her time between the lush Adelaide Hills\, the location of her professional counselling practice\, and the stark\, arid beauty of the family farm at Pallamana\, which provides both the setting for many of her stories and a refuge for the rescues that can’t be released. Follow her social media for an overload of the fluffy\, fleecy\, furred and feathered inhabitants of her home and heart.Léonie is the bestselling author of The Farm at Peppertree Crossing\, The Wattle Seed Inn\, The River Gum Cottage\, The Willow Tree Wharf and The Blue Gum Camp. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. 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 Book here\n \n \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 BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarat National Theatre | Ballarat Times by Evie Lamb\n Lots to dig about The Dog Logs by Evie Lamb\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Twilight Talks 2026 | Ballarat Times by Evie Lamb\n BMI’s Twilight Talks Return by Evie Lamb\, Ballarat Times The... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n Peg Rankin: A Journey of Faith and Resilience Peter Rankin... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Executive Manager Update – April 2026\n Executive Manager Update – Nev Ivey Since commencing at BMI\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/look-back-on-languor-frank-hurley/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Art programs,Culture,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Langour_-front-cover-flyer-image.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230413T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230413T210000 DTSTAMP:20260411T081934 CREATED:20230202T024047Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230202T024640Z UID:33946-1681414200-1681419600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Ballarat Film Society - Both Sides of the Blade DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Léonie Kelsall \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n July 12\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n8:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$10 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 Homestead in the Eucalypts \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Léonie Kelsall. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sometimes finding the way forward means retracing your past. \n \n \n \n \n \n When student doctor Taylor Lawrence’s city life is turned upside down\, she seeks sanctuary on her grandparents’ farm in the South Australian countryside. During the lonely nights\, she fantasises of a time long-gone; of Anna\, who\, rising at dawn to milk the cows and fetch water from the well\, is caught in a bushfire that threatens to leave her reputation as blackened as the surrounding bushland. And of Anna’s rescuer\, fellow settler\, Luke Hartmann. Reality blurs as Taylor repeatedly escapes into Anna’s world\, and she realises she must discover whether her dreams are pure fantasy—or if they recount a story more familiar than she could ever imagine. Either way\, it seems she’ll end up with a broken mind or a broken heart. The problem is\, Taylor is no longer sure which she would prefer. An entrancing new rural romance from the bestselling author of The Blue Gum Camp. ‘Léonie Kelsall is becoming the voice of the South Australian rural outback.’ Beauty and Lace on The Blue Gum Camp.Praise for Léonie Kelsall:‘A great summer read—romance\, drama and laughs . . . from one of Australia’s best rural romance writers.’ Woman’s Day on The Blue Gum Camp ‘With complex and endearing characters who will steal your heart away\, these unputdownable books will have you turning the pages long into the night.’ Karly Lane\, bestselling author of For Once In My Life ‘Léonie Kelsall is my go-to when I want a gutsy rural fiction read.’ Darry Fraser\, author of The Milliner of Bendigo ‘Warm\, witty and brimming with big-hearted country characters\, renovations and romance. A fabulous\, feel-good rural read!’ Maya Linnell\, bestselling author of Kookaburra Cottage ‘A welcome return that offers plenty of happiness\, fun and heartbreak…with a wonderful message about letting go\, seizing the day and embracing all experiences on offer…I highly recommend.’ Mrs B’s Book Reviews ‘Written with warmth\, humour and sincerity\, offering appealing characters and an engaging story…a lovely read\, sure to satisfy.’ Book’d Out \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the Author \n \n Raised initially in a tiny\, no-horse town on South Australia’s Fleurieu coast\, then in the slightly more populated wheat and sheep farming land at Pallamana\, Léonie is a country girl through and through. Growing up without a television\, she developed a love of reading before she reached primary school\, swiftly followed by a desire to write. Pity the poor teachers who received chapters of creative writing instead of a single page! Léonie entertained a brief fantasy of moving to the big city (well\, Adelaide)\, but within months the lure of the open spaces and big sky country summoned her home. A registered wildlife rescuer and carer\, she now divides her time between the lush Adelaide Hills\, the location of her professional counselling practice\, and the stark\, arid beauty of the family farm at Pallamana\, which provides both the setting for many of her stories and a refuge for the rescues that can’t be released. Follow her social media for an overload of the fluffy\, fleecy\, furred and feathered inhabitants of her home and heart.Léonie is the bestselling author of The Farm at Peppertree Crossing\, The Wattle Seed Inn\, The River Gum Cottage\, The Willow Tree Wharf and The Blue Gum Camp. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. 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 Book here\n \n \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 BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarat National Theatre | Ballarat Times by Evie Lamb\n Lots to dig about The Dog Logs by Evie Lamb\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Twilight Talks 2026 | Ballarat Times by Evie Lamb\n BMI’s Twilight Talks Return by Evie Lamb\, Ballarat Times The... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n Peg Rankin: A Journey of Faith and Resilience Peter Rankin... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Executive Manager Update – April 2026\n Executive Manager Update – Nev Ivey Since commencing at BMI\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/bfs-bothsidesoftheblade/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Externally Produced Event,Film ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Brody-Both-Blade.jpg-e1675305921383.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230328T140000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230328T150000 DTSTAMP:20260411T081934 CREATED:20230327T231124Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230328T222715Z UID:36550-1680012000-1680015600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Day Tour of the Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Léonie Kelsall \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n July 12\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n8:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$10 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 Homestead in the Eucalypts \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Léonie Kelsall. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sometimes finding the way forward means retracing your past. \n \n \n \n \n \n When student doctor Taylor Lawrence’s city life is turned upside down\, she seeks sanctuary on her grandparents’ farm in the South Australian countryside. During the lonely nights\, she fantasises of a time long-gone; of Anna\, who\, rising at dawn to milk the cows and fetch water from the well\, is caught in a bushfire that threatens to leave her reputation as blackened as the surrounding bushland. And of Anna’s rescuer\, fellow settler\, Luke Hartmann. Reality blurs as Taylor repeatedly escapes into Anna’s world\, and she realises she must discover whether her dreams are pure fantasy—or if they recount a story more familiar than she could ever imagine. Either way\, it seems she’ll end up with a broken mind or a broken heart. The problem is\, Taylor is no longer sure which she would prefer. An entrancing new rural romance from the bestselling author of The Blue Gum Camp. ‘Léonie Kelsall is becoming the voice of the South Australian rural outback.’ Beauty and Lace on The Blue Gum Camp.Praise for Léonie Kelsall:‘A great summer read—romance\, drama and laughs . . . from one of Australia’s best rural romance writers.’ Woman’s Day on The Blue Gum Camp ‘With complex and endearing characters who will steal your heart away\, these unputdownable books will have you turning the pages long into the night.’ Karly Lane\, bestselling author of For Once In My Life ‘Léonie Kelsall is my go-to when I want a gutsy rural fiction read.’ Darry Fraser\, author of The Milliner of Bendigo ‘Warm\, witty and brimming with big-hearted country characters\, renovations and romance. A fabulous\, feel-good rural read!’ Maya Linnell\, bestselling author of Kookaburra Cottage ‘A welcome return that offers plenty of happiness\, fun and heartbreak…with a wonderful message about letting go\, seizing the day and embracing all experiences on offer…I highly recommend.’ Mrs B’s Book Reviews ‘Written with warmth\, humour and sincerity\, offering appealing characters and an engaging story…a lovely read\, sure to satisfy.’ Book’d Out \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the Author \n \n Raised initially in a tiny\, no-horse town on South Australia’s Fleurieu coast\, then in the slightly more populated wheat and sheep farming land at Pallamana\, Léonie is a country girl through and through. Growing up without a television\, she developed a love of reading before she reached primary school\, swiftly followed by a desire to write. Pity the poor teachers who received chapters of creative writing instead of a single page! Léonie entertained a brief fantasy of moving to the big city (well\, Adelaide)\, but within months the lure of the open spaces and big sky country summoned her home. A registered wildlife rescuer and carer\, she now divides her time between the lush Adelaide Hills\, the location of her professional counselling practice\, and the stark\, arid beauty of the family farm at Pallamana\, which provides both the setting for many of her stories and a refuge for the rescues that can’t be released. Follow her social media for an overload of the fluffy\, fleecy\, furred and feathered inhabitants of her home and heart.Léonie is the bestselling author of The Farm at Peppertree Crossing\, The Wattle Seed Inn\, The River Gum Cottage\, The Willow Tree Wharf and The Blue Gum Camp. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. 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 Book here\n \n \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 BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarat National Theatre | Ballarat Times by Evie Lamb\n Lots to dig about The Dog Logs by Evie Lamb\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Twilight Talks 2026 | Ballarat Times by Evie Lamb\n BMI’s Twilight Talks Return by Evie Lamb\, Ballarat Times The... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n Peg Rankin: A Journey of Faith and Resilience Peter Rankin... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Executive Manager Update – April 2026\n Executive Manager Update – Nev Ivey Since commencing at BMI\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/tours-of-ballarat-mechanics-institute-heritage/ LOCATION:Library Ground Floor\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:BMI Produced Event,Culture,Tours ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/tours-banner-draft-cropped.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230328T140000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230328T150000 DTSTAMP:20260411T081934 CREATED:20230327T231124Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230328T222715Z UID:36550-1680012000-1680015600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Day Tour of the Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Léonie Kelsall \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n July 12\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n8:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$10 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 Homestead in the Eucalypts \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Léonie Kelsall. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sometimes finding the way forward means retracing your past. \n \n \n \n \n \n When student doctor Taylor Lawrence’s city life is turned upside down\, she seeks sanctuary on her grandparents’ farm in the South Australian countryside. During the lonely nights\, she fantasises of a time long-gone; of Anna\, who\, rising at dawn to milk the cows and fetch water from the well\, is caught in a bushfire that threatens to leave her reputation as blackened as the surrounding bushland. And of Anna’s rescuer\, fellow settler\, Luke Hartmann. Reality blurs as Taylor repeatedly escapes into Anna’s world\, and she realises she must discover whether her dreams are pure fantasy—or if they recount a story more familiar than she could ever imagine. Either way\, it seems she’ll end up with a broken mind or a broken heart. The problem is\, Taylor is no longer sure which she would prefer. An entrancing new rural romance from the bestselling author of The Blue Gum Camp. ‘Léonie Kelsall is becoming the voice of the South Australian rural outback.’ Beauty and Lace on The Blue Gum Camp.Praise for Léonie Kelsall:‘A great summer read—romance\, drama and laughs . . . from one of Australia’s best rural romance writers.’ Woman’s Day on The Blue Gum Camp ‘With complex and endearing characters who will steal your heart away\, these unputdownable books will have you turning the pages long into the night.’ Karly Lane\, bestselling author of For Once In My Life ‘Léonie Kelsall is my go-to when I want a gutsy rural fiction read.’ Darry Fraser\, author of The Milliner of Bendigo ‘Warm\, witty and brimming with big-hearted country characters\, renovations and romance. A fabulous\, feel-good rural read!’ Maya Linnell\, bestselling author of Kookaburra Cottage ‘A welcome return that offers plenty of happiness\, fun and heartbreak…with a wonderful message about letting go\, seizing the day and embracing all experiences on offer…I highly recommend.’ Mrs B’s Book Reviews ‘Written with warmth\, humour and sincerity\, offering appealing characters and an engaging story…a lovely read\, sure to satisfy.’ Book’d Out \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the Author \n \n Raised initially in a tiny\, no-horse town on South Australia’s Fleurieu coast\, then in the slightly more populated wheat and sheep farming land at Pallamana\, Léonie is a country girl through and through. Growing up without a television\, she developed a love of reading before she reached primary school\, swiftly followed by a desire to write. Pity the poor teachers who received chapters of creative writing instead of a single page! Léonie entertained a brief fantasy of moving to the big city (well\, Adelaide)\, but within months the lure of the open spaces and big sky country summoned her home. A registered wildlife rescuer and carer\, she now divides her time between the lush Adelaide Hills\, the location of her professional counselling practice\, and the stark\, arid beauty of the family farm at Pallamana\, which provides both the setting for many of her stories and a refuge for the rescues that can’t be released. Follow her social media for an overload of the fluffy\, fleecy\, furred and feathered inhabitants of her home and heart.Léonie is the bestselling author of The Farm at Peppertree Crossing\, The Wattle Seed Inn\, The River Gum Cottage\, The Willow Tree Wharf and The Blue Gum Camp. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. 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 Book here\n \n \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 BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarat National Theatre | Ballarat Times by Evie Lamb\n Lots to dig about The Dog Logs by Evie Lamb\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Twilight Talks 2026 | Ballarat Times by Evie Lamb\n BMI’s Twilight Talks Return by Evie Lamb\, Ballarat Times The... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n Peg Rankin: A Journey of Faith and Resilience Peter Rankin... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Executive Manager Update – April 2026\n Executive Manager Update – Nev Ivey Since commencing at BMI\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/tours-of-ballarat-mechanics-institute-heritage/ LOCATION:Library Ground Floor\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:BMI Produced Event,Culture,Tours ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/tours-banner-draft-cropped.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230403T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230403T200000 DTSTAMP:20260411T081934 CREATED:20230217T030838Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230329T211548Z UID:34508-1680548400-1680552000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Meet the Author | Bill "Swampy" Marsh DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Léonie Kelsall \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n July 12\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n8:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$10 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 Homestead in the Eucalypts \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Léonie Kelsall. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sometimes finding the way forward means retracing your past. \n \n \n \n \n \n When student doctor Taylor Lawrence’s city life is turned upside down\, she seeks sanctuary on her grandparents’ farm in the South Australian countryside. During the lonely nights\, she fantasises of a time long-gone; of Anna\, who\, rising at dawn to milk the cows and fetch water from the well\, is caught in a bushfire that threatens to leave her reputation as blackened as the surrounding bushland. And of Anna’s rescuer\, fellow settler\, Luke Hartmann. Reality blurs as Taylor repeatedly escapes into Anna’s world\, and she realises she must discover whether her dreams are pure fantasy—or if they recount a story more familiar than she could ever imagine. Either way\, it seems she’ll end up with a broken mind or a broken heart. The problem is\, Taylor is no longer sure which she would prefer. An entrancing new rural romance from the bestselling author of The Blue Gum Camp. ‘Léonie Kelsall is becoming the voice of the South Australian rural outback.’ Beauty and Lace on The Blue Gum Camp.Praise for Léonie Kelsall:‘A great summer read—romance\, drama and laughs . . . from one of Australia’s best rural romance writers.’ Woman’s Day on The Blue Gum Camp ‘With complex and endearing characters who will steal your heart away\, these unputdownable books will have you turning the pages long into the night.’ Karly Lane\, bestselling author of For Once In My Life ‘Léonie Kelsall is my go-to when I want a gutsy rural fiction read.’ Darry Fraser\, author of The Milliner of Bendigo ‘Warm\, witty and brimming with big-hearted country characters\, renovations and romance. A fabulous\, feel-good rural read!’ Maya Linnell\, bestselling author of Kookaburra Cottage ‘A welcome return that offers plenty of happiness\, fun and heartbreak…with a wonderful message about letting go\, seizing the day and embracing all experiences on offer…I highly recommend.’ Mrs B’s Book Reviews ‘Written with warmth\, humour and sincerity\, offering appealing characters and an engaging story…a lovely read\, sure to satisfy.’ Book’d Out \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the Author \n \n Raised initially in a tiny\, no-horse town on South Australia’s Fleurieu coast\, then in the slightly more populated wheat and sheep farming land at Pallamana\, Léonie is a country girl through and through. Growing up without a television\, she developed a love of reading before she reached primary school\, swiftly followed by a desire to write. Pity the poor teachers who received chapters of creative writing instead of a single page! Léonie entertained a brief fantasy of moving to the big city (well\, Adelaide)\, but within months the lure of the open spaces and big sky country summoned her home. A registered wildlife rescuer and carer\, she now divides her time between the lush Adelaide Hills\, the location of her professional counselling practice\, and the stark\, arid beauty of the family farm at Pallamana\, which provides both the setting for many of her stories and a refuge for the rescues that can’t be released. Follow her social media for an overload of the fluffy\, fleecy\, furred and feathered inhabitants of her home and heart.Léonie is the bestselling author of The Farm at Peppertree Crossing\, The Wattle Seed Inn\, The River Gum Cottage\, The Willow Tree Wharf and The Blue Gum Camp. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. 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 Book here\n \n \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 BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarat National Theatre | Ballarat Times by Evie Lamb\n Lots to dig about The Dog Logs by Evie Lamb\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Twilight Talks 2026 | Ballarat Times by Evie Lamb\n BMI’s Twilight Talks Return by Evie Lamb\, Ballarat Times The... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n Peg Rankin: A Journey of Faith and Resilience Peter Rankin... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Executive Manager Update – April 2026\n Executive Manager Update – Nev Ivey Since commencing at BMI\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/meet-the-author-bill-swampy-marsh/ LOCATION:Heritage Reading Room\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Art programs,BMI Produced Event,Culture,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/bill-portrait-2-e1678423349274.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230331T100000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230331T120000 DTSTAMP:20260411T081934 CREATED:20230320T035701Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230320T041733Z UID:35539-1680256800-1680264000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Feeling Out Loud: Writing Poetry DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Léonie Kelsall \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n July 12\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n8:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$10 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 Homestead in the Eucalypts \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Léonie Kelsall. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sometimes finding the way forward means retracing your past. \n \n \n \n \n \n When student doctor Taylor Lawrence’s city life is turned upside down\, she seeks sanctuary on her grandparents’ farm in the South Australian countryside. During the lonely nights\, she fantasises of a time long-gone; of Anna\, who\, rising at dawn to milk the cows and fetch water from the well\, is caught in a bushfire that threatens to leave her reputation as blackened as the surrounding bushland. And of Anna’s rescuer\, fellow settler\, Luke Hartmann. Reality blurs as Taylor repeatedly escapes into Anna’s world\, and she realises she must discover whether her dreams are pure fantasy—or if they recount a story more familiar than she could ever imagine. Either way\, it seems she’ll end up with a broken mind or a broken heart. The problem is\, Taylor is no longer sure which she would prefer. An entrancing new rural romance from the bestselling author of The Blue Gum Camp. ‘Léonie Kelsall is becoming the voice of the South Australian rural outback.’ Beauty and Lace on The Blue Gum Camp.Praise for Léonie Kelsall:‘A great summer read—romance\, drama and laughs . . . from one of Australia’s best rural romance writers.’ Woman’s Day on The Blue Gum Camp ‘With complex and endearing characters who will steal your heart away\, these unputdownable books will have you turning the pages long into the night.’ Karly Lane\, bestselling author of For Once In My Life ‘Léonie Kelsall is my go-to when I want a gutsy rural fiction read.’ Darry Fraser\, author of The Milliner of Bendigo ‘Warm\, witty and brimming with big-hearted country characters\, renovations and romance. A fabulous\, feel-good rural read!’ Maya Linnell\, bestselling author of Kookaburra Cottage ‘A welcome return that offers plenty of happiness\, fun and heartbreak…with a wonderful message about letting go\, seizing the day and embracing all experiences on offer…I highly recommend.’ Mrs B’s Book Reviews ‘Written with warmth\, humour and sincerity\, offering appealing characters and an engaging story…a lovely read\, sure to satisfy.’ Book’d Out \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the Author \n \n Raised initially in a tiny\, no-horse town on South Australia’s Fleurieu coast\, then in the slightly more populated wheat and sheep farming land at Pallamana\, Léonie is a country girl through and through. Growing up without a television\, she developed a love of reading before she reached primary school\, swiftly followed by a desire to write. Pity the poor teachers who received chapters of creative writing instead of a single page! Léonie entertained a brief fantasy of moving to the big city (well\, Adelaide)\, but within months the lure of the open spaces and big sky country summoned her home. A registered wildlife rescuer and carer\, she now divides her time between the lush Adelaide Hills\, the location of her professional counselling practice\, and the stark\, arid beauty of the family farm at Pallamana\, which provides both the setting for many of her stories and a refuge for the rescues that can’t be released. Follow her social media for an overload of the fluffy\, fleecy\, furred and feathered inhabitants of her home and heart.Léonie is the bestselling author of The Farm at Peppertree Crossing\, The Wattle Seed Inn\, The River Gum Cottage\, The Willow Tree Wharf and The Blue Gum Camp. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. 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 Book here\n \n \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 BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarat National Theatre | Ballarat Times by Evie Lamb\n Lots to dig about The Dog Logs by Evie Lamb\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Twilight Talks 2026 | Ballarat Times by Evie Lamb\n BMI’s Twilight Talks Return by Evie Lamb\, Ballarat Times The... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n Peg Rankin: A Journey of Faith and Resilience Peter Rankin... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Executive Manager Update – April 2026\n Executive Manager Update – Nev Ivey Since commencing at BMI\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/feeling-out-loud-writing-poetry/ LOCATION:Heritage Reading Room\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Art programs,Externally Produced Event,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0001-46481475799.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230330T123000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20230330T133000 DTSTAMP:20260411T081934 CREATED:20230329T221639Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230329T221641Z UID:36847-1680179400-1680183000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:The Reading Room | Now rescheduled to 2 May DESCRIPTION:In Conversation with Léonie Kelsall \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n July 12\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n8:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$10 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 Homestead in the Eucalypts \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Léonie Kelsall. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sometimes finding the way forward means retracing your past. \n \n \n \n \n \n When student doctor Taylor Lawrence’s city life is turned upside down\, she seeks sanctuary on her grandparents’ farm in the South Australian countryside. During the lonely nights\, she fantasises of a time long-gone; of Anna\, who\, rising at dawn to milk the cows and fetch water from the well\, is caught in a bushfire that threatens to leave her reputation as blackened as the surrounding bushland. And of Anna’s rescuer\, fellow settler\, Luke Hartmann. Reality blurs as Taylor repeatedly escapes into Anna’s world\, and she realises she must discover whether her dreams are pure fantasy—or if they recount a story more familiar than she could ever imagine. Either way\, it seems she’ll end up with a broken mind or a broken heart. The problem is\, Taylor is no longer sure which she would prefer. An entrancing new rural romance from the bestselling author of The Blue Gum Camp. ‘Léonie Kelsall is becoming the voice of the South Australian rural outback.’ Beauty and Lace on The Blue Gum Camp.Praise for Léonie Kelsall:‘A great summer read—romance\, drama and laughs . . . from one of Australia’s best rural romance writers.’ Woman’s Day on The Blue Gum Camp ‘With complex and endearing characters who will steal your heart away\, these unputdownable books will have you turning the pages long into the night.’ Karly Lane\, bestselling author of For Once In My Life ‘Léonie Kelsall is my go-to when I want a gutsy rural fiction read.’ Darry Fraser\, author of The Milliner of Bendigo ‘Warm\, witty and brimming with big-hearted country characters\, renovations and romance. A fabulous\, feel-good rural read!’ Maya Linnell\, bestselling author of Kookaburra Cottage ‘A welcome return that offers plenty of happiness\, fun and heartbreak…with a wonderful message about letting go\, seizing the day and embracing all experiences on offer…I highly recommend.’ Mrs B’s Book Reviews ‘Written with warmth\, humour and sincerity\, offering appealing characters and an engaging story…a lovely read\, sure to satisfy.’ Book’d Out \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the Author \n \n Raised initially in a tiny\, no-horse town on South Australia’s Fleurieu coast\, then in the slightly more populated wheat and sheep farming land at Pallamana\, Léonie is a country girl through and through. Growing up without a television\, she developed a love of reading before she reached primary school\, swiftly followed by a desire to write. Pity the poor teachers who received chapters of creative writing instead of a single page! Léonie entertained a brief fantasy of moving to the big city (well\, Adelaide)\, but within months the lure of the open spaces and big sky country summoned her home. A registered wildlife rescuer and carer\, she now divides her time between the lush Adelaide Hills\, the location of her professional counselling practice\, and the stark\, arid beauty of the family farm at Pallamana\, which provides both the setting for many of her stories and a refuge for the rescues that can’t be released. Follow her social media for an overload of the fluffy\, fleecy\, furred and feathered inhabitants of her home and heart.Léonie is the bestselling author of The Farm at Peppertree Crossing\, The Wattle Seed Inn\, The River Gum Cottage\, The Willow Tree Wharf and The Blue Gum Camp. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. 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 Book here\n \n \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 BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarat National Theatre | Ballarat Times by Evie Lamb\n Lots to dig about The Dog Logs by Evie Lamb\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Twilight Talks 2026 | Ballarat Times by Evie Lamb\n BMI’s Twilight Talks Return by Evie Lamb\, Ballarat Times The... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n Peg Rankin: A Journey of Faith and Resilience Peter Rankin... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Executive Manager Update – April 2026\n Executive Manager Update – Nev Ivey Since commencing at BMI\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/the-reading-room-book-discussion-3/ LOCATION:Heritage Reading Room\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Art programs,BMI Produced Event,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Reading_room_adjusted-e1704770529709.jpg END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR