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:20240406T160000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+1000 TZOFFSETTO:+1100 TZNAME:AEDT DTSTART:20241005T160000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+1100 TZOFFSETTO:+1000 TZNAME:AEST DTSTART:20250405T160000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+1000 TZOFFSETTO:+1100 TZNAME:AEDT DTSTART:20251004T160000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+1100 TZOFFSETTO:+1000 TZNAME:AEST DTSTART:20260404T160000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+1000 TZOFFSETTO:+1100 TZNAME:AEDT DTSTART:20261003T160000 END:DAYLIGHT END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250611T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250611T200000 DTSTAMP:20260413T174543 CREATED:20250408T030135Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250408T030337Z UID:64335-1749668400-1749672000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Kadampa Meditation Series | Healthy Habits for A Happy Mind DESCRIPTION:May 21\n@\n7:00 pm\n–\n8:00 pm \nFree – $12 \nLending Library \nThese classes offer simple\, practical methods to improve the quality of our life and develop inner peace\nthrough meditation and Buddhist teachings. \nThe in-person setting fosters a supportive community and\noffers real-time interaction with the teacher for personalized guidance.\nClasses include guided meditations and teachings to help us solve our\ndaily problems and find the lasting happiness we seek. \nBeginners welcome\, no bookings required. \nFree for Kadampa members \nKadampa Meditation Centre Australia (Ballarat Branch)\ninfo@meditateinmelbourne.org | 0455205589\nmeditateinballarat.org\nABN 86 114 195 550\nKMC Australia is a not-for-profit organisation \nThe Teacher\nChristielli Portela has been teaching modern Kadampa Buddhism for a decade. As an experienced and well-loved teacher\, she inspires people to use Buddhist meditation to improve their lives through her sincere example and clear teachings. \n\n \nThis 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. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/kadampa-meditation-series-11-june/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:kadampa ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Healthy-Habits-square-promo.webp ORGANIZER;CN="Kadampa Meditation":MAILTO:info@kadampa.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250612T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250612T210000 DTSTAMP:20260413T174543 CREATED:20250212T023200Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250321T110613Z UID:61968-1749756600-1749762000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Ballarat Film Society | La Chimera DESCRIPTION:June 12\n@\n7:30 pm\n–\n9:00 pm \nArchaeological Romance\n \nLa Chimera is the latest film from Rohrwacher\, a delightfully singular Italian writer-director who\, with just a handful of feature-length films\, has become one of the must-see filmmakers on the international circuit. \nArthur\, a British archaeologist just released from prison and grieving his lost love\, soon falls back in with a rag-tag gang of petty thieves plundering pre-Roman tombs in the Italian countryside. \nHijinks ensue\, but his mystic connection with these tombs will either be his doom or salvation. \nImagine Indiana Jones crossed with Fellini and you have a sense of this marvelous film.  Part caper movie\, part romance\, La Chimera draws on the mystical and the mythic\, on national history and magic realism\, to create something extraordinary.  Stars Josh O’Connor (The Crown) and Carol Duarte\, with a guest appearance by Isabella Rossellini. Palace. \nItaly\, 2023\, 130 min. \nDir. Alice Rohrwacher. \nBallarat Film Society \n  \nMembership \n12 months – Feb-December: $60\nFeb-July: $35 – July-Dec: $30 \nTo join or renew your membership\, please e-mail or phone Angus McLachlan (5374 2474)\, or come with cash on the night. \nMembership can be paid by bank transfer or with cash. \nFor film enquiries\, phone Sue Nunn: 5341 2266 or visit the  Ballarat Film Society website \nAll films are subject to availability. If there is no next film shown below it means the BFS is working on next season’s programme. \nMore Film\n5 events found. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nToday\n \nUpcoming\nUpcoming \n\n\nSelect date. \n \n\n\n\n \nFeb\n13 \n \n\nFeatured \n7:30 pm\n– \n9:00 pm \n\nBallarat Film Society | KNEECAP \n\n\n\n \nMar\n13 \n \n\nFeatured \n7:30 pm\n– \n9:00 pm \n\nBallarat Film Society | The Movie Teller \n\n\n\n \nApr\n10 \n \n\nFeatured \n7:30 pm\n– \n9:00 pm \n\nBallarat Film Society | Red Rocket \n\n\n\n \nMay\n8 \n \n\nFeatured \n7:30 pm\n– \n9:00 pm \n\nBallarat Film Society | Bicycle Thieves \n\n\n\n \nJun\n12 \n \n\nFeatured \n7:30 pm\n– \n9:00 pm \n\nBallarat Film Society | La Chimera \n\n\n\n\nPrevious Events\n\n\nToday \n\nNext Events \n\n\n\n\nSubscribe to calendar \n\n\nGoogle Calendar \n\niCalendar \n\nOutlook 365 \n\nOutlook Live \n\nExport .ics file \n\nExport Outlook .ics file \n\nBMI news\n\n \n\nNewsletter – February 2025\n\nA Message from the Chair… \n\n\n \n\nNewsletter – January 2025\n\nA Message from the Chair… \n\n\n \n\nRosemary’s Book of the Week\n\nThe Mystery of Haverford House Rachel Burton. A Mystery that… \n\n\n \n\nRosemary’s Book of the Week\n\nDead Man’s Shoes Marion Todd. A Master of the Tartan… \n\n\nLoad More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/bfs-la-chimera/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Ballarat Film Society,Externally Produced Event,Film ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/sqaure-promo-bfs4.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250618T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250618T200000 DTSTAMP:20260413T174543 CREATED:20250408T031324Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250408T033501Z UID:64337-1750273200-1750276800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Kadampa Meditation Series | Meditations for Relaxation DESCRIPTION:June 18\n@\n7:00 pm\n–\n8:00 pm \nFree – $12 \nLending Library \nThese classes offer simple\, practical methods to improve the quality of our life and develop inner peace\nthrough meditation and Buddhist teachings. \nThe in-person setting fosters a supportive community and\noffers real-time interaction with the teacher for personalized guidance.\nClasses include guided meditations and teachings to help us solve our\ndaily problems and find the lasting happiness we seek. \nBeginners welcome\, no bookings required. \nFree for Kadampa members \nKadampa Meditation Centre Australia (Ballarat Branch)\ninfo@meditateinmelbourne.org | 0455205589\nmeditateinballarat.org\nABN 86 114 195 550\nKMC Australia is a not-for-profit organisation \nThe Teacher\nChristielli Portela has been teaching modern Kadampa Buddhism for a decade. As an experienced and well-loved teacher\, she inspires people to use Buddhist meditation to improve their lives through her sincere example and clear teachings. \n\n \nThis 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. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/kadampa-meditation-series-18-june/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:kadampa ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Relaxation-Ballarat-promo-square.webp ORGANIZER;CN="Kadampa Meditation":MAILTO:info@kadampa.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250619T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250619T220000 DTSTAMP:20260413T174543 CREATED:20250519T053343Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250528T002909Z UID:64995-1750359600-1750370400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:'Next Fall'\, A Ballarat National Theatre Production DESCRIPTION:June 19\n@\n7:00 pm\n–\n10:00 pm \n$10 – $25 \nMinerva Space \n\nGet Tickets\n \nThursday 19 June\, Friday 20 June & Saturday 21 June at 7pm\nSaturday 21 June & Sunday 22 June at 2pm \nA Tony Award Nominated Play by Geoffry Nauffts \nDirected by Matthew Henderson \nNominated for the Tony Award\, Drama Desk Award\, and Outer Critics Circle Award for Best Play. \nNext Fall is a moving and thought-provoking drama about love\, faith\, and family. The story follows Adam and Luke\, a committed couple navigating their opposing beliefs—Adam is an atheist\, while Luke is a devout Christian. When an accident changes everything\, Adam must rely on Luke’s family for support\, leading to a deeply emotional and\, at times\, humorous exploration of faith\, acceptance\, and love. \n \nGeoffrey Nauffts \nGeoffrey Nauffts has worked as an actor on and Off-Broadway\, regionally\, and extensively in film and television. He has directed short plays by Kenneth Lonergan\, Frank Pugliese\, David Marshall Grant\, Theresa Rebeck and Suzan-Lori Parks\, as well as Naked Angels’ critically acclaimed production of Steven Belber’s TAPE in New York\, Los Angeles\, and London. \nHe wrote\, directed\, and acted in the award-winning short film “Baby Steps\,” starring Kathy Bates\, and co-wrote “Jenifer\,” a movie of the week for CBS. He collaborated with Elton John and Anthony Barrile on a score for “Showstopper\,” a screenplay he and Barrile co-wrote for Ben Stiller’s production company\, Red Hour. In addition to his role as a writer on ABC’s hit series\, “Brothers & Sisters\,” he currently serves as artistic director of Naked Angels\, where he’s been a proud member for over twenty-four years. \nHis critically acclaimed play NEXT FALL opened on Broadway in March 2010\, where it received the Outer Circle Critics John Gassner Award for Best New American Play\, and was nominated for a Drama League Award\, an Outer Circle Critics Award\, a Drama Desk Award\, and a Tony Award for best play. \nCast\nKai Ridler \nHe/Him \nLuke \nSamuel John Darge \nHe/Him \nAdam \nCaleb Tong \nHe/Him \nBrandon \nJessica Ryan \nShe/Her \nArlene \nSimon Carroll \nHe/Him \nButch \nNatalya Munro \nShe/Her \nHolly \nTickets: $25 adults\, $20 Concession\, $18.00 BNT members\, $10 Children\, $10 Group (minimum of 10 tickets). Ticket sales close 1 hour prior to the performance. \n\nGet Tickets\n\n \nRunning Time: 3 Hours \nBallarat National Theatre \n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n \nBallarat National Theatre are a BMI Community Partner\nFind out more about BMI Community Partnerships below. \n\nSupporters & partners\n\n\n \n \nThis 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. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/next-fall-bnt/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Ballarat National Theatre,Ballarat Pride,Theatre Production ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Next-Fall-Square-BMI-Event-Listing-v2.webp ORGANIZER;CN="Ballarat National Theatre":MAILTO:contact@bnt.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250620T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250620T220000 DTSTAMP:20260413T174543 CREATED:20250527T010329Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250528T002458Z UID:65168-1750446000-1750456800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:'Next Fall'\, A Ballarat National Theatre Production DESCRIPTION:June 20\n@\n7:00 pm\n–\n10:00 pm \n$10 – $25 \nMinerva Space \n\nGet Tickets\n \nThursday 19 June\, Friday 20 June & Saturday 21 June at 7pm\nSaturday 21 June & Sunday 22 June at 2pm \nA Tony Award Nominated Play by Geoffry Nauffts \nDirected by Matthew Henderson \nNominated for the Tony Award\, Drama Desk Award\, and Outer Critics Circle Award for Best Play. \nNext Fall is a moving and thought-provoking drama about love\, faith\, and family. The story follows Adam and Luke\, a committed couple navigating their opposing beliefs—Adam is an atheist\, while Luke is a devout Christian. When an accident changes everything\, Adam must rely on Luke’s family for support\, leading to a deeply emotional and\, at times\, humorous exploration of faith\, acceptance\, and love. \n \nGeoffrey Nauffts \nGeoffrey Nauffts has worked as an actor on and Off-Broadway\, regionally\, and extensively in film and television. He has directed short plays by Kenneth Lonergan\, Frank Pugliese\, David Marshall Grant\, Theresa Rebeck and Suzan-Lori Parks\, as well as Naked Angels’ critically acclaimed production of Steven Belber’s TAPE in New York\, Los Angeles\, and London. \nHe wrote\, directed\, and acted in the award-winning short film “Baby Steps\,” starring Kathy Bates\, and co-wrote “Jenifer\,” a movie of the week for CBS. He collaborated with Elton John and Anthony Barrile on a score for “Showstopper\,” a screenplay he and Barrile co-wrote for Ben Stiller’s production company\, Red Hour. In addition to his role as a writer on ABC’s hit series\, “Brothers & Sisters\,” he currently serves as artistic director of Naked Angels\, where he’s been a proud member for over twenty-four years. \nHis critically acclaimed play NEXT FALL opened on Broadway in March 2010\, where it received the Outer Circle Critics John Gassner Award for Best New American Play\, and was nominated for a Drama League Award\, an Outer Circle Critics Award\, a Drama Desk Award\, and a Tony Award for best play. \nCast\nKai Ridler \nHe/Him \nLuke \nSamuel John Darge \nHe/Him \nAdam \nCaleb Tong \nHe/Him \nBrandon \nJessica Ryan \nShe/Her \nArlene \nSimon Carroll \nHe/Him \nButch \nNatalya Munro \nShe/Her \nHolly \nTickets: $25 adults\, $20 Concession\, $18.00 BNT members\, $10 Children\, $10 Group (minimum of 10 tickets). Ticket sales close 1 hour prior to the performance. \n\nGet Tickets\n\n \nRunning Time: 3 Hours \nBallarat National Theatre \n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n \nBallarat National Theatre are a BMI Community Partner\nFind out more about BMI Community Partnerships below. \n\nSupporters & partners\n\n\n \n \nThis 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. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/next-fall-bnt-1/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Ballarat National Theatre,Ballarat Pride,Theatre Production ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Next-Fall-Square-BMI-Event-Listing-v2.webp ORGANIZER;CN="Ballarat National Theatre":MAILTO:contact@bnt.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250621T140000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250621T170000 DTSTAMP:20260413T174543 CREATED:20250527T020143Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250528T000716Z UID:65179-1750514400-1750525200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:'Next Fall'\, A Ballarat National Theatre Production DESCRIPTION:June 21\n@\n2:00 pm\n–\n5:00 pm \n$10 – $25 \nMinerva Space \n\nGet Tickets\n \nThursday 19 June\, Friday 20 June & Saturday 21 June at 7pm\nSaturday 21 June & Sunday 22 June at 2pm \nA Tony Award Nominated Play by Geoffry Nauffts \nDirected by Matthew Henderson \nNominated for the Tony Award\, Drama Desk Award\, and Outer Critics Circle Award for Best Play. \nNext Fall is a moving and thought-provoking drama about love\, faith\, and family. The story follows Adam and Luke\, a committed couple navigating their opposing beliefs—Adam is an atheist\, while Luke is a devout Christian. When an accident changes everything\, Adam must rely on Luke’s family for support\, leading to a deeply emotional and\, at times\, humorous exploration of faith\, acceptance\, and love. \n \nGeoffrey Nauffts \nGeoffrey Nauffts has worked as an actor on and Off-Broadway\, regionally\, and extensively in film and television. He has directed short plays by Kenneth Lonergan\, Frank Pugliese\, David Marshall Grant\, Theresa Rebeck and Suzan-Lori Parks\, as well as Naked Angels’ critically acclaimed production of Steven Belber’s TAPE in New York\, Los Angeles\, and London. \nHe wrote\, directed\, and acted in the award-winning short film “Baby Steps\,” starring Kathy Bates\, and co-wrote “Jenifer\,” a movie of the week for CBS. He collaborated with Elton John and Anthony Barrile on a score for “Showstopper\,” a screenplay he and Barrile co-wrote for Ben Stiller’s production company\, Red Hour. In addition to his role as a writer on ABC’s hit series\, “Brothers & Sisters\,” he currently serves as artistic director of Naked Angels\, where he’s been a proud member for over twenty-four years. \nHis critically acclaimed play NEXT FALL opened on Broadway in March 2010\, where it received the Outer Circle Critics John Gassner Award for Best New American Play\, and was nominated for a Drama League Award\, an Outer Circle Critics Award\, a Drama Desk Award\, and a Tony Award for best play. \nCast\nKai Ridler \nHe/Him \nLuke \nSamuel John Darge \nHe/Him \nAdam \nCaleb Tong \nHe/Him \nBrandon \nJessica Ryan \nShe/Her \nArlene \nSimon Carroll \nHe/Him \nButch \nNatalya Munro \nShe/Her \nHolly \nTickets: $25 adults\, $20 Concession\, $18.00 BNT members\, $10 Children\, $10 Group (minimum of 10 tickets). Ticket sales close 1 hour prior to the performance. \n\nGet Tickets\n\n \nRunning Time: 3 Hours \nBallarat National Theatre \n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n \nBallarat National Theatre are a BMI Community Partner\nFind out more about BMI Community Partnerships below. \n\nSupporters & partners\n\n\n \n \nThis 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. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/next-fall-bnt-3/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Ballarat National Theatre,Ballarat Pride,Theatre Production ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Next-Fall-Square-BMI-Event-Listing-v2.webp ORGANIZER;CN="Ballarat National Theatre":MAILTO:contact@bnt.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250621T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250621T220000 DTSTAMP:20260413T174543 CREATED:20250527T015841Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250528T001222Z UID:65177-1750532400-1750543200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:'Next Fall'\, A Ballarat National Theatre Production DESCRIPTION:June 21\n @\n7:00 pm\n –\n10:00 pm \n\n$10 – $25 \nMinerva Space \n \n Get Tickets\n \nThursday 19 June\, Friday 20 June & Saturday 21 June at 7pm Saturday 21 June & Sunday 22 June at 2pm \nA Tony Award Nominated Play by Geoffry Nauffts \nDirected by Matthew Henderson \nNominated for the Tony Award\, Drama Desk Award\, and Outer Critics Circle Award for Best Play. \nNext Fall is a moving and thought-provoking drama about love\, faith\, and family. The story follows Adam and Luke\, a committed couple navigating their opposing beliefs—Adam is an atheist\, while Luke is a devout Christian. When an accident changes everything\, Adam must rely on Luke’s family for support\, leading to a deeply emotional and\, at times\, humorous exploration of faith\, acceptance\, and love. \n \nGeoffrey Nauffts \nGeoffrey Nauffts has worked as an actor on and Off-Broadway\, regionally\, and extensively in film and television. He has directed short plays by Kenneth Lonergan\, Frank Pugliese\, David Marshall Grant\, Theresa Rebeck and Suzan-Lori Parks\, as well as Naked Angels’ critically acclaimed production of Steven Belber’s TAPE in New York\, Los Angeles\, and London. \nHe wrote\, directed\, and acted in the award-winning short film “Baby Steps\,” starring Kathy Bates\, and co-wrote “Jenifer\,” a movie of the week for CBS. He collaborated with Elton John and Anthony Barrile on a score for “Showstopper\,” a screenplay he and Barrile co-wrote for Ben Stiller’s production company\, Red Hour. In addition to his role as a writer on ABC’s hit series\, “Brothers & Sisters\,” he currently serves as artistic director of Naked Angels\, where he’s been a proud member for over twenty-four years. \nHis critically acclaimed play NEXT FALL opened on Broadway in March 2010\, where it received the Outer Circle Critics John Gassner Award for Best New American Play\, and was nominated for a Drama League Award\, an Outer Circle Critics Award\, a Drama Desk Award\, and a Tony Award for best play. \nCast\nKai Ridler \nHe/Him \nLuke \nSamuel John Darge \nHe/Him \nAdam \nCaleb Tong \nHe/Him \nBrandon \nJessica Ryan \nShe/Her \nArlene \nSimon Carroll \nHe/Him \nButch \nNatalya Munro \nShe/Her \nHolly \nTickets: $25 adults\, $20 Concession\, $18.00 BNT members\, $10 Children\, $10 Group (minimum of 10 tickets). Ticket sales close 1 hour prior to the performance. \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \nRunning Time: 3 Hours \nBallarat National Theatre \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \nBallarat National Theatre are a BMI Community PartnerFind out more about BMI Community Partnerships below. \n \n Supporters & partners\n \n \n \n \nThis 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. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/next-fall-bnt-4/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Ballarat National Theatre,Theatre Production ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Next-Fall-Square-BMI-Event-Listing-v2.webp ORGANIZER;CN="Ballarat National Theatre":MAILTO:contact@bnt.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250622T140000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250622T170000 DTSTAMP:20260413T174543 CREATED:20250527T020353Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250527T235219Z UID:65181-1750600800-1750611600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:'Next Fall'\, A Ballarat National Theatre Production DESCRIPTION:June 22\n@\n2:00 pm\n–\n5:00 pm \n$10 – $25 \nMinerva Space \n\nGet Tickets\n \nThursday 19 June\, Friday 20 June & Saturday 21 June at 7pm\nSaturday 21 June & Sunday 22 June at 2pm \nA Tony Award Nominated Play by Geoffry Nauffts \nDirected by Matthew Henderson \nNominated for the Tony Award\, Drama Desk Award\, and Outer Critics Circle Award for Best Play. \nNext Fall is a moving and thought-provoking drama about love\, faith\, and family. The story follows Adam and Luke\, a committed couple navigating their opposing beliefs—Adam is an atheist\, while Luke is a devout Christian. When an accident changes everything\, Adam must rely on Luke’s family for support\, leading to a deeply emotional and\, at times\, humorous exploration of faith\, acceptance\, and love. \n \nGeoffrey Nauffts \nGeoffrey Nauffts has worked as an actor on and Off-Broadway\, regionally\, and extensively in film and television. He has directed short plays by Kenneth Lonergan\, Frank Pugliese\, David Marshall Grant\, Theresa Rebeck and Suzan-Lori Parks\, as well as Naked Angels’ critically acclaimed production of Steven Belber’s TAPE in New York\, Los Angeles\, and London. \nHe wrote\, directed\, and acted in the award-winning short film “Baby Steps\,” starring Kathy Bates\, and co-wrote “Jenifer\,” a movie of the week for CBS. He collaborated with Elton John and Anthony Barrile on a score for “Showstopper\,” a screenplay he and Barrile co-wrote for Ben Stiller’s production company\, Red Hour. In addition to his role as a writer on ABC’s hit series\, “Brothers & Sisters\,” he currently serves as artistic director of Naked Angels\, where he’s been a proud member for over twenty-four years. \nHis critically acclaimed play NEXT FALL opened on Broadway in March 2010\, where it received the Outer Circle Critics John Gassner Award for Best New American Play\, and was nominated for a Drama League Award\, an Outer Circle Critics Award\, a Drama Desk Award\, and a Tony Award for best play. \nCast\nKai Ridler \nHe/Him \nLuke \nSamuel John Darge \nHe/Him \nAdam \nCaleb Tong \nHe/Him \nBrandon \nJessica Ryan \nShe/Her \nArlene \nSimon Carroll \nHe/Him \nButch \nNatalya Munro \nShe/Her \nHolly \nTickets: $25 adults\, $20 Concession\, $18.00 BNT members\, $10 Children\, $10 Group (minimum of 10 tickets). Ticket sales close 1 hour prior to the performance. \n\nGet Tickets\n\n \nRunning Time: 3 Hours \nBallarat National Theatre \n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n \nBallarat National Theatre are a BMI Community Partner\nFind out more about BMI Community Partnerships below. \n\nSupporters & partners\n\n\n \n \nThis 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. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/next-fall-bnt-5/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Ballarat National Theatre,Ballarat Pride,Theatre Production ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Next-Fall-Square-BMI-Event-Listing-v2.webp ORGANIZER;CN="Ballarat National Theatre":MAILTO:contact@bnt.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250625T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250625T193000 DTSTAMP:20260413T174543 CREATED:20250403T040834Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250624T020208Z UID:64256-1750874400-1750879800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with Kylie Ladd | This event has now been CANCELLED DESCRIPTION:June 25\n@\n6:00 pm\n–\n7:30 pm \n$11.78 \nHumffray Room \n\nGet Tickets\n \nThe Mix-Up\nKylie Ladd.\n \nOne Tiny Mistake\, Two Families affected\nKylie Ladd\nA beautifully told and thought-provoking novel about a mix-up that leaves two children wondering who they really are and where they belong. \nWhat would you do if you found out you’d been raising another couple’s child – and they’ve been raising yours? \nFourteen years ago\, Kelsey and Raf Maccioni left hospital with their newborn daughter\, Ammy. Days later\, Shona and Nathan James welcomed the birth of their son\, Zac. \nThe only thing the two couples have in common is the IVF clinic where their dreams came true. They are strangers to each other – for now. \nFast forward to April 2024 . . . Ammy has grown into a rebellious young woman\, and Zac is a kind but introverted teenager. \nLife may not be perfect for either family\, but like everyone else they are muddling through. \nUntil Ammy takes a DNA test for a school project. At first the results are puzzling. Then disturbing. Then earth-shattering – when the IVF clinic admits a terrible mistake. \nThe Mix-Up | Kylie Ladd\n\nAbout the author\nKylie Ladd is a novelist\, psychologist and freelance writer. Her six previous novels have been published in Australia and overseas. She has also co-edited and co-authored two non-fiction books\, and her essays and articles have been published in The Age and Sydney Morning Herald\, Griffith Review\, Meanjin\, O Magazine\, Good Medicine\, Kill Your Darlings and Reader’s Digest\, amongst others.  Kylie holds a PhD in neuropsychology and lives in Melbourne with her husband and two children.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n$11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. \n\nBook on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n\nGet Tickets\n\n\n \nThis 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. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/kylie-ladd/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Fundraiser,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/kylie-ladd-promo-v2.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250625T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250625T200000 DTSTAMP:20260413T174543 CREATED:20250408T033234Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250408T033736Z UID:64345-1750878000-1750881600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Kadampa Meditation Series | Meditations for Relaxation DESCRIPTION:June 18\n@\n7:00 pm\n–\n8:00 pm \nFree – $12 \nLending Library \nThese classes offer simple\, practical methods to improve the quality of our life and develop inner peace\nthrough meditation and Buddhist teachings. \nThe in-person setting fosters a supportive community and\noffers real-time interaction with the teacher for personalized guidance.\nClasses include guided meditations and teachings to help us solve our\ndaily problems and find the lasting happiness we seek. \nBeginners welcome\, no bookings required. \nFree for Kadampa members \nKadampa Meditation Centre Australia (Ballarat Branch)\ninfo@meditateinmelbourne.org | 0455205589\nmeditateinballarat.org\nABN 86 114 195 550\nKMC Australia is a not-for-profit organisation \nThe Teacher\nChristielli Portela has been teaching modern Kadampa Buddhism for a decade. As an experienced and well-loved teacher\, she inspires people to use Buddhist meditation to improve their lives through her sincere example and clear teachings. \n\n \nThis 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. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/kadampa-meditation-series-25-june/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:kadampa ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Relaxation-Ballarat-promo-square.webp ORGANIZER;CN="Kadampa Meditation":MAILTO:info@kadampa.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250629T140000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250629T163000 DTSTAMP:20260413T174543 CREATED:20250523T002017Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250527T234616Z UID:65094-1751205600-1751214600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:The Australian Barbra Streisand Show | Featuring Rachael Grace DESCRIPTION:June 29\n @\n2:00 pm\n –\n4:30 pm \n\n$52.25 \n \n Get Tickets\n \nAn Occasion in Ballarat\nFeaturing Rachael Grace \nThe Australian\nBarbra Streisand Show\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \nExperience the magic of Barbra Streisand’s legendary career with Rachael Grace\, as she brings to life the timeless hits that have defined generations. \nThis stunning production\, featuring musical direction by Green Room Award-winning John Thorn\, takes audiences on a musical journey through Streisand’s iconic songs – from emotional ballads to disco classics. Rachael’s powerful voice\, unique interpretation and world class band make this show more than just a tribute – it’s a heartfelt love letter to one of the greatest voices in music history. \nHailed ‘as divine as Streisand herself’ by Glam Adelaide\, this unforgettable performance blends musical genres with an exceptional ensemble to create a truly spellbinding experience. \n \nGet tickets $52.25 Includes bkg fee & gst. \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \nThis 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. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/australian-barbra-streisand-show/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Ballarat Pride,BMI Produced Event,Live Music ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/babs-sq-promo.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250702T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250702T200000 DTSTAMP:20260413T174543 CREATED:20250408T033759Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250408T033918Z UID:64354-1751482800-1751486400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Kadampa Meditation Series | Meditations for Relaxation DESCRIPTION:June 18\n@\n7:00 pm\n–\n8:00 pm \nFree – $12 \nLending Library \nThese classes offer simple\, practical methods to improve the quality of our life and develop inner peace\nthrough meditation and Buddhist teachings. \nThe in-person setting fosters a supportive community and\noffers real-time interaction with the teacher for personalized guidance.\nClasses include guided meditations and teachings to help us solve our\ndaily problems and find the lasting happiness we seek. \nBeginners welcome\, no bookings required. \nFree for Kadampa members \nKadampa Meditation Centre Australia (Ballarat Branch)\ninfo@meditateinmelbourne.org | 0455205589\nmeditateinballarat.org\nABN 86 114 195 550\nKMC Australia is a not-for-profit organisation \nThe Teacher\nChristielli Portela has been teaching modern Kadampa Buddhism for a decade. As an experienced and well-loved teacher\, she inspires people to use Buddhist meditation to improve their lives through her sincere example and clear teachings. \n\n \nThis 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. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/kadampa-meditation-series-2-july/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:kadampa ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Relaxation-Ballarat-promo-square.webp ORGANIZER;CN="Kadampa Meditation":MAILTO:info@kadampa.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250704T173000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250704T190000 DTSTAMP:20260413T174543 CREATED:20250617T020437Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250617T022343Z UID:65677-1751650200-1751655600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Royal South Street Society | Margaret Schofield OAM | Memorial Grand Piano Unveiling DESCRIPTION:July 4\n @\n5:30 pm\n –\n7:00 pm \nMinerva Space \n \n RSVP\n \nThe Grand Unveiling of the Margaret Schofield OAM Memorial Piano \nBallarat is set to welcome a world-class musical treasure as the Royal South Street Society (RSSS) announces the arrival of a Schimmel Konzert Grand K195 piano\, marking a major milestone in the city’s artistic legacy. \nYOU can contribute by purchasing a key in your name\, or in the name of a loved one or business.  Help bring this magnificent instrument to Ballarat and ensure its music is heard for generations to come. \nTo find out more\, click on ‘Support’  link. \n \n Support\n \n \n Royal South Street Society\n \nTo attend the unveiling please RSVP below \n \n RSVP\n \nRoyal South Street Society are a BMI Community PartnerFind out more about BMI Community Partnerships below. \n \n Supporters & partners\n \n \nThis 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. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/grand-piano-unveiling/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Community Partner,Royal South Street Society,Theatre Production ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/grand-piano-launch-for-post.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250708T140000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250708T150000 DTSTAMP:20260413T174543 CREATED:20250317T032147Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250528T005150Z UID:62936-1751983200-1751986800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Day Tours of the Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute | Ballarat Winter Festival 8 July DESCRIPTION:Ballarat Winter Festival \n2 Tours – one at 11am the next at 2pm (the is a limited capacity on these tours)\nA colourful history of the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute and it’s people. \nBy appointment only\, (to organise a volunteer guide we require 24hrs notice). \nGroup Tours: Group tours can also be accommodated on other days\, to do so contact: katrina@ballaratmi.org.au \nCost: $11.78 includes gst and booking fee. \n\nBook here\n\n\nAccessibility\n \nThe Britannia Theatre\, 1920 | Image from the BMI archive\nNew library\, the Batten Room\nHumffray Room\nMinerva Space\nHeritage Reading Room\nTalking point: BMI’s Paula Nicholson\, Member for Wendouree Juliana Addison and BMI Venue Manager Sam McColl under just some of the candle-smoke graffiti in the Basement | Photo courtesy\, Ballarat Times\, photographer Edwina Williams\nThe research material for your tour has been drawn from – Under Minerva’s Gaze: 150 years at the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute (edited by Jill Blee and Phil Roberts). \nThis reference material is available for purchase at the Library or can be purchased via our Shop. \n\nUnder Minerva’s Gaze\n \nThis event is part of the Ballart Winter Festival \n\n \n \nThis 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. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/day-tours-ballarat-winter-festival-1/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Ballarat Winter Festival,Festival,Fundraiser,Important Dates,Tours ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/BMI-woodcut_bags-low-res-1kb-e1703024949185.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250708T150000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250708T163000 DTSTAMP:20260413T174543 CREATED:20250523T031147Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250707T030941Z UID:65105-1751986800-1751992200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Author Talk | J.S. Davidson 'Hunted' & 'Tethered' | Now CANCELLED DESCRIPTION:July 8\n@\n3:00 pm\n–\n4:30 pm \n$11.78 \nTBA \n\nGet Tickets\n \nJ.S. Davidson \nHunted: The Aztec Saga \nIf one should fall\, they each will fade… \nTethered: The Aztec Saga \nDarkness will come\, no one will evade… \nHunted: The Aztec Saga | J. S. Davidson\nTethered: The Aztec Saga | J. S. Davidson\nI don’t know how long I have been in this room. It feels like a century has slipped by\, but my reflection in the metallic door suggest it has been merely weeks. \nScreams of torment agonise in my mind as I stare at the task before me – an impossible task with only one outcome – death. If Death would come to me and carry me from this torturous place\, I would welcome him with open arms\nHe will not come for me\, he will come for another\, another whose passing will cause my heart to break even further. \nThere was once a time I didn’t believe in the supernatural. I dismissed the strange book that came into my life as nothing but junk\, and I considered the warnings that followed to be nothing but folklore. How could I have been so foolish to believe the eyes that peered into my mind were innocuous? \nNow\, as I sit in my concrete cell with three boxes filled with unnerving contents\, I can think of nothing else but the fortune teller’s warning\, he will hunt you\, he will find you\, he will claim you as his own. And\, you will love him until you draw your final breath. \nI pray to God – any God who may be listening – to give me strength and the power to fight. I know what lays before me\, and I know it’s going to take ounce of strength I have. \nTime no longer has any meaning. Months may have passed since I awoke in this cell\, or perhaps only mere hours have slipped by. \nTurning my head\, I look away from the boxes upon the table. I cannot look at them. I cannot think of their contents. \nThe key sits in the middle of the floor\, each time my eyes move past it I am reminded of an escape within my reach\, but an escape I can never take. \nPicking the blank notepad up\, I poise my pen and begin to write. I begin to fill the pad with my memories of sailing the River of Tomorrow\, and the Hanging Ones. \nWith every passing minute\, the hope I hold for someone to come fades further into the internal abyss of emptiness growing in my soul… \nAbout the author\n Ballarat-based author Jan Davidson\, 37\, is no stranger to challenges. Born with physical deformities\, Jan spent much of her childhood at Melbourne’s Royal Children’s Hospital. Yet\, from those early struggles emerged a remarkable talent and voice that now speaks to readers through stories that span magical realms and the rich tapestry of everyday Australian life. “It was really boring as a kid\,” Jan laughs\, reflecting on her years in the hospital. “Netflix didn’t exist back then — so I only had my imagination to entertain me.” What began as a way to escape the sterile hospital walls became the foundation for a writing career that bridges two very different\, yet equally compelling\, genres. Jan is the creative force behind the gripping Urban Fantasy series ‘The Aztec Saga’\, Hunted and Tethered\, published under the pen name J.S. Davidson\, and the deeply human Australian drama series With You\, Breakfast With You and the soon-to-be-released Finding Me With You\, written under the name Ella Stone. When asked why she writes across such different genres\, her answer is simple: “I’d get bored sticking to just one.” She likens the contrast between the two styles to the shift from adventure to comfort. “Urban fantasy is a challenge\, an adventure\,” she explains. “Whereas Australian drama is like slipping cozy slippers on after a freezing day of being outside.” It’s that balance — between escapism and realism\, challenge and comfort — that gives Jan’s work a unique and captivating voice. At home in Ballarat\, Jan shares her life with her husband John and their two teenage children\, Samuel and Phoebe. Her writing life is closely woven into her family’s world\, one that’s grounded in care\, creativity\, and community. The Davidsons have long been active in local volunteer groups\, committed to giving back to the community that has supported them over the years.Jan’s story is a powerful reminder of how creativity can flourish in the most unexpected places — and how resilience\, imagination\, and heart can turn adversity into art. With more stories on the horizon and her latest drama ready to launch\, readers can expect to hear much more from this talented and deeply grounded writer. Whether she’s crafting tales of magic and danger or exploring the quiet heroism of everyday life\, Jan Davidson — as J.S. Davidson or Ella Stone — writes with authenticity and heart. And the world is better for it.\n\n\n\n\n\n \n$11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. \n\nBook on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n\nGet Tickets\n\n \nThis event is part of Ballarat Winter Festival \n\n \n \nThis 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. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/hunted-tethered-davidson/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Ballarat Winter Festival,Fundraiser,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/sq-promos-davidson-h-t.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250708T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250708T193000 DTSTAMP:20260413T174543 CREATED:20250527T041755Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250707T031118Z UID:65216-1751997600-1752003000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Author Talk | Ella Stone - 'Breakfast With You' | Now CANCELLED DESCRIPTION:July 8\n@\n6:00 pm\n–\n7:30 pm \n$11.78 \nTBA \n\nGet Tickets\n \nElla Stone \nBreakfast With You \nBreakfast WIth You | Ella Stone\nThe plan is simple. Nicole will return to her hometown of Riverbanks for the funeral and provide a eulogy for a father she no longer knows.\nAfterwards\, she will slip back to Sydney where she’ll wear the infamous Diamond Dress to the most prestigious fashion event of the year\, and she and Eddie—her life-long partner—will live happily ever after. \nSimple. What could possibly go wrong? \nThe answer: Cameron Barrinson\, her ex from long ago. And\, of course\, there is that pesky little secret she swore to never tell another soul about. But\, other than that—all will be easy\, right? \nWill her arrival be as straightforward as she hopes\, or will it shake loose old friendships and rekindle a love that should never have ended? \n** Ella Stone is a pen name of J.S. Davidson and is used for all her drama / romance books. \nAbout the author\n Ballarat-based author Jan Davidson\, 37\, is no stranger to challenges. Born with physical deformities\, Jan spent much of her childhood at Melbourne’s Royal Children’s Hospital. Yet\, from those early struggles emerged a remarkable talent and voice that now speaks to readers through stories that span magical realms and the rich tapestry of everyday Australian life.\n“It was really boring as a kid\,” Jan laughs\, reflecting on her years in the hospital. “Netflix didn’t exist back then — so I only had my imagination to entertain me.”\nWhat began as a way to escape the sterile hospital walls became the foundation for a writing career that bridges two very different\, yet equally compelling\, genres.\nJan is the creative force behind the gripping Urban Fantasy series ‘The Aztec Saga’\, Hunted and Tethered\, published under the pen name J.S. Davidson\, and the deeply human Australian Drama series ‘With You’\, Breakfast With You and the soon-to-be-released Finding Me With You\, written under the name Ella Stone. When asked why she writes across such different genres\, her answer is simple: “I’d get bored sticking to just one.”\nShe likens the contrast between the two styles to the shift from adventure to comfort. “Urban fantasy is a challenge\, an adventure\,” she explains. “Whereas Australian drama is like slipping cozy slippers on after a freezing day of being outside.” It’s that balance — between escapism and realism\, challenge and comfort — that gives Jan’s work a unique and captivating voice.\nAt home in Ballarat\, Jan shares her life with her husband John and their two teenage children\, Samuel and Phoebe. Her writing life is closely woven into her family’s world\, one that’s grounded in care\, creativity\, and community. The Davidsons have long been active in local volunteer groups\, committed to giving back to the community that has supported them over the years.\nJan’s story is a powerful reminder of how creativity can flourish in the most unexpected places — and how resilience\, imagination\, and heart can turn adversity into art. With more stories on the horizon and her latest drama ready to launch\, readers can expect to hear much more from this talented and deeply grounded writer.\nWhether she’s crafting tales of magic and danger or exploring the quiet heroism of everyday life\, Jan Davidson — as J.S. Davidson or Ella Stone — writes with authenticity and heart. And the world is better for it.\n\n\n\n\n\n \n$11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. \n\nBook on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n\nGet Tickets\n\n \nThis event is part of Ballarat Winter Festival \n\n \n \nThis 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. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/ella-stone/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Ballarat Winter Festival,Fundraiser,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/sq-promos-davidson-h-t3.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250709T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250709T193000 DTSTAMP:20260413T174543 CREATED:20250527T060905Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250528T004045Z UID:65240-1752084000-1752089400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with Matthew Spencer DESCRIPTION:July 9\n@\n6:00 pm\n–\n7:30 pm \n$11.78 \nHumffray Room \n\nGet Tickets\n \nBroke Road \nMatthew Spencer \n \nA Murder at home – A community on edge – Someone is watching. \n‘A tightly plotted\, fast moving\, beautifully written whodunnit’ – Jane Caro \n‘Enthralling\, Matthew Spencer nails it’ – Chris Hammer \nFrom the bestselling author of Black River. This July sees the release of Broke Road. Perfect for fans of Jane Caro and Chris Hammer\, this gripping mystery unravels a string of unexplained murders set against the haunting backdrop of the Hunter Valley. \nBroke Road was inspired by a conversation Matthew Spencer had with a forensic pathologist\, exploring the complexities and chilling realities of what it would take to commit the perfect murder. \nA late-night phone call is never good news for Homicide Detective Sergeant Rose Riley. This time she’s being sent up to the Hunter Valley. A young woman found dead in her new townhouse in Hunter Valley wine country. \nNo forced entry\, no signs of struggle. The victim’s husband is a mining geologist\, and there’s a hole in his alibi. \nDetective Rose Riley unearths undercurrents of discontent between the coal industry andgrape growers in the district. Forensic evidence leads to two unsolved cases—two morewomen dead in their homes\, hundreds of kilometres apart—and Riley fears she’s looking at akiller on a spree. Broke Road combines place and pace with expertise as we follow Detective Rose Riley andJournalist turned true-crime writer Adam Bowman race through a gripping police procedural you won’t be able to put down. \nBroke Road | Matthew Spencer\n\nAbout the author\nMatthew Spencer was a journalist at The Australian for twenty years\, with long stints running the Foreign News desk and as Opinion Editor. He has written for newspapers and magazines in Uganda and Kenya and been published in The Australian Financial Review and The Sydney Morning Herald. \nMatthew has an Honours degree in English Literature from the University of Sydney. Black River is his first novel. \nHe was born in Parramatta. The son of teachers\, he lived with his sister Kate on the 320-acre campus of a boys’ boarding school. Long summers on the largely deserted property while exploring the remnant bush with its tributary of the Parramatta River inspired the book. \nMatthew lives in Sydney with his wife\, Ritu Gupta\, and their three children.\n\n\n\n \n$11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. \n\nBook on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n\nGet Tickets\n\n \nThis event is part of Ballarat Winter Festival \n\n \n \nThis 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. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/matthew-spencer/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Ballarat Winter Festival,Fundraiser,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/sq-promo-matthew-spencer.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250709T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250709T200000 DTSTAMP:20260413T174543 CREATED:20250408T033940Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250408T035613Z UID:64356-1752087600-1752091200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Kadampa Meditation Series | Meditations for A Clear Mind DESCRIPTION:July 9\n @\n7:00 pm\n –\n8:00 pm \n\nFree – $12 \nLending Library \n  \nThese classes offer simple\, practical methods to improve the quality of our life and develop inner peacethrough meditation and Buddhist teachings. \nThe in-person setting fosters a supportive community andoffers real-time interaction with the teacher for personalized guidance.Classes include guided meditations and teachings to help us solve ourdaily problems and find the lasting happiness we seek. \nBeginners welcome\, no bookings required. \nFree for Kadampa members \nKadampa Meditation Centre Australia (Ballarat Branch)info@meditateinmelbourne.org | 0455205589meditateinballarat.orgABN 86 114 195 550KMC Australia is a not-for-profit organisation \nThe Teacher\nChristielli Portela has been teaching modern Kadampa Buddhism for a decade. As an experienced and well-loved teacher\, she inspires people to use Buddhist meditation to improve their lives through her sincere example and clear teachings. \n \n \nThis 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. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/kadampa-meditation-series-9-july/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:kadampa ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Clear-Mind-Urban-Ballarat-square-promo.webp ORGANIZER;CN="Kadampa Meditation":MAILTO:info@kadampa.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250710T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250710T210000 DTSTAMP:20260413T174543 CREATED:20250212T025248Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250321T110608Z UID:61983-1752175800-1752181200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Ballarat Film Society | Sweet As DESCRIPTION:July 10\n@\n7:30 pm\n–\n9:00 pm \nIndigenous Coming of Age Story\n \nFilmed in the stunning Pilbara over five weeks\, Nyul Nyul/Yawuru woman Jub Clerc’s debut feature film is the first Western Australian film by a First Nation’s director.  \n16-year-old Murra\, whose abandonment by her drug-fuelled mother puts her at risk of being sent into the Child Protection system\, instead finds herself on an outward-bound mini-bus full of at-risk teens and two charismatic team leaders. Amongst others\, the group includes a troublemaker\, a lonely and vulnerable young man\, and an irrepressible ‘Elvis\,’ the reason for whose inclusion on the trip is unknown. Sweet As is an uplifting coming-of-age road movie about unconventional friendships\, romantic crushes\, and the use of the camera to capture the beautiful and meaningful cultural landscape and quiet moments of realization. \nIn the 1980s\, Jub herself travelled on a photo safari for at-risk teens which ignited her passion for visual story-telling. Just as her journey was a transformative one for her\, so too is Sweet As transformative for its audience. Roadshow. \nAustralia\, 2022\, 83 min. \nDir: Jub Clerc. Stars: Shantae Barnes-Cowan\, Mark Coles-Smith and Tasma Walton. \nBallarat Film Society \n  \nMembership \n12 months – Feb-December: $60\nFeb-July: $35 – July-Dec: $30 \nTo join or renew your membership\, please e-mail or phone Angus McLachlan (5374 2474)\, or come with cash on the night. \nMembership can be paid by bank transfer or with cash. \nFor film enquiries\, phone Sue Nunn: 5341 2266 or visit the  Ballarat Film Society website \nAll films are subject to availability. If there is no next film shown below it means the BFS is working on next season’s programme. \nMore Film\n10 events found. \n\n\n\n \n \n\n\n\nToday\n \nUpcoming\nUpcoming\n \n\nSelect date. \n \n\n\n\n \nFeb\n13 \n  \nFeatured \n7:30 pm\n– \n9:00 pm \n\nBallarat Film Society | KNEECAP \n\n\n\n \nMar\n13 \n  \nFeatured \n7:30 pm\n– \n9:00 pm \n\nBallarat Film Society | The Movie Teller \n\n\n\n \nApr\n10 \n  \nFeatured \n7:30 pm\n– \n9:00 pm \n\nBallarat Film Society | Red Rocket \n\n\n\n \nMay\n8 \n  \nFeatured \n7:30 pm\n– \n9:00 pm \n\nBallarat Film Society | Bicycle Thieves (Ladri di Biciclette) \n\n\n\n \nJun\n12 \n  \nFeatured \n7:30 pm\n– \n9:00 pm \n\nBallarat Film Society | La Chimera \n\n\n\n \nJul\n10 \n  \nFeatured \n7:30 pm\n– \n9:00 pm \n\nBallarat Film Society | Sweet As \n\n\n\n \nSep\n11 \n  \nFeatured \n7:30 pm\n– \n9:00 pm \n\nBallarat Film Society | Goodbye Julia \n\n\n\n \nOct\n9 \n  \nFeatured \n7:30 pm\n– \n9:00 pm \n\nBallarat Film Society | To Thank the Room \n\n\n\n \nNov\n13 \n  \nFeatured \n7:30 pm\n– \n9:00 pm \n\nBallarat Film Society | ​Hammarskjöld: The Fight for Peace \n\n\n\n \nDec\n11 \n  \nFeatured \n7:30 pm\n– \n9:00 pm \n\nBallarat Film Society | ​Little Richard: I am Everything \n\n\n\nPrevious Events\n\nToday \n\nNext Events \n\n\n\nSubscribe to calendar \n\n\nGoogle Calendar \n\niCalendar \n\nOutlook 365 \n\nOutlook Live \n\nExport .ics file \n\nExport Outlook .ics file \n\nBMI news\n \n\nNewsletter – February 2025\n\nA Message from the Chair… \n\n \n\nNewsletter – January 2025\n\nA Message from the Chair… \n\n \n\nRosemary’s Book of the Week\n\nThe Mystery of Haverford House Rachel Burton. A Mystery that… \n\n \n\nRosemary’s Book of the Week\n\nDead Man’s Shoes Marion Todd. A Master of the Tartan… \n\n\nLoad More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/bfs-sweet-as/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Ballarat Film Society,Externally Produced Event,Film ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/sqaure-promo-bfs-update.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250711T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250711T210000 DTSTAMP:20260413T174543 CREATED:20250526T023451Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250616T012211Z UID:65144-1752262200-1752267600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Andrew Hamilton | Jokes about the time I went to Prison DESCRIPTION:July 11\n@\n7:30 pm\n–\n9:00 pm \n$35.50 \nMinerva Space \n\nGet Tickets\n \n‘One to watch.’ NSW Police\n‘Knack for a ripping anecdote.’ ★★★★ The Age\n‘Fascinating and unique.’ Chortle (UK)\n‘A compelling and utterly hysterical night of comedy’ ★★★★★ ArtsHub\nNominee – Best Newcomer Award\, 2023 Melbourne International Comedy Festival\nIn 2021\, Andrew Hamilton spent four months in two of Sydney’s maximum-security prisons for the commercial supply of psychedelic drugs. While incarcerated\, Andrew began noticing the transportive power of laughter. After all\, if a joke can make you forget you’re in prison\, what else can it do?  \nUpon his release\, Andrew took up stand-up comedy\, initially under strict bail conditions where his parents had to come with him to shows\, and he had to be home in time for curfew. \nA year later\, Andrew performed his debut solo show\, ‘Jokes About the Time I Went to Prison’\, at the 2023 Melbourne International Comedy Festival. Andrew’s show garnered him critical acclaim\, along with a nomination for Best Newcomer. \nFollowing the success of ‘Jokes About the Time I Went to Prison\,’ Andrew performed sold-out festival shows with his follow up hour\, ‘Shit Bloke’ in 2024. He embarked on his first solo headline tour later that year\, performing to packed rooms all throughout the country. The tour aligned with the release of Andrew’s autobiography\, ‘The Profound Benefits of a Stint in Prison’ (Affirm Press). \nAndrew’s viral online appearances have attracted over a billion views\, and earned him an international following\, initially as a member of the viral YouTube channel\, YeahMadTV\, and now with ‘The OG Crew’. \n \nFollow Andrew\n\n\n\n\n \nEnquiries:  Any event specific enquires should be direct to venue@ballaratmi.org.au \nPrice: $35.50 includes gst & booking fee. \n\nGet Tickets\n\n\n \nThis 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. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/andrew-hamilton/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Comedy ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/sq-promo-andrew-hamilton.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250715T140000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250715T150000 DTSTAMP:20260413T174543 CREATED:20250527T053759Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250528T005007Z UID:65236-1752588000-1752591600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Day Tours of the Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute | Ballarat Winter Festival 15 July DESCRIPTION:Ballarat Winter Festival \n2 Tours – one at 11am the next at 2pm (the is a limited capacity on these tours)\nA colourful history of the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute and it’s people. \nBy appointment only\, (to organise a volunteer guide we require 24hrs notice). \nGroup Tours: Group tours can also be accommodated on other days\, to do so contact: katrina@ballaratmi.org.au \nCost: $11.78 includes gst and booking fee. \n\nBook here\n\n\nAccessibility\n \nThe Britannia Theatre\, 1920 | Image from the BMI archive\nNew library\, the Batten Room\nHumffray Room\nMinerva Space\nHeritage Reading Room\nTalking point: BMI’s Paula Nicholson\, Member for Wendouree Juliana Addison and BMI Venue Manager Sam McColl under just some of the candle-smoke graffiti in the Basement | Photo courtesy\, Ballarat Times\, photographer Edwina Williams\nThe research material for your tour has been drawn from – Under Minerva’s Gaze: 150 years at the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute (edited by Jill Blee and Phil Roberts). \nThis reference material is available for purchase at the Library or can be purchased via our Shop. \n\nUnder Minerva’s Gaze\n \nThis event is part of the Ballart Winter Festival \n\n \n \nThis 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. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/day-tours-ballarat-winter-festival-2/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Ballarat Heritage Festival,Ballarat Winter Festival,Festival,Fundraiser,Important Dates,Tours ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/BMI-woodcut_bags-low-res-1kb-e1703024949185.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250716T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250716T193000 DTSTAMP:20260413T174543 CREATED:20250604T015536Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250714T011514Z UID:65475-1752688800-1752694200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with Irma Gold | This event has now been CANCELLED due to low ticket sales DESCRIPTION:July 16\n@\n6:00 pm\n–\n7:30 pm \n$11.78 \nHumffray Room \n\nGet Tickets\n \nShift \nIrma Gold \n \n‘Unforgettable’ – Nigel Featherstone. \n‘Evocative\, propulsive and heartbreaking\, Shift is a novel that can change the way you think.’ – Rochelle Siemienowicz\,\nDouble Happiness \n‘Seductive\, superbly atmospheric and beautifully narrated with a painterly\, cinemascope feel\, Shift will make your heart race.’ – Niq Mhlongo\, The City is Mine \nIn the year of the 70th anniversary of the Freedom Charter – which outlined the principles of democracy and freedom in South Africa – comes a novel set in the township where it was signed. Shift asks us to examine both the world around us…and ourselves. \nArlie is a moderately successful thirty-something photographer who can’t seem to get his shit together. He can’t hold onto a girlfriend\, or much else\, and his relationship with his parents is complicated. His agoraphobic mother\, Dellie\, has long drawn silence over her South African upbringing. The more she refuses to illuminate\, the more Arlie wants to know. \nAfter another break-up\, Arlie needs to get away\, and there’s only one place he’s drawn to. In Kliptown\, he meets choirmaster Rufaro\, singer Glory and her younger brother Samson. Amidst the poverty\, violence and beauty of this neglected South African township\, Arlie begins exploring ideas for an exhibition\, and courting the possibility of happiness. But then his father unexpectedly turns up\, and a catastrophic event changes everything. \nGusty and gripping\, tender and deeply compassionate\, Shift is a compulsively readable story about the messy process of art-making\, and the mess of love and family. It is an unflinching\, insightful and immersive novel that takes the reader inside the inner life of one township\, beyond the hyperbole of newspaper headlines\, to offer bold\, big-hearted hope. \n\n\nAbout the author\nIrma Gold is an Australian author\, editor and reader. Her debut novel\, The Breaking\, won the NSW Writers Centre Varuna Fellowship and was awarded development grants by artsACT and CAPO. It won a Canberra Critics Circle Award and was shortlisted (then Highly Commended) in the ACT Notable Awards. \nIrma’s critically acclaimed debut collection of short fiction\, Two Steps Forward (Affirm Press)\, was shortlisted for or won a number of awards. Irma’s short fiction has been widely published in journals\, including Meanjin\, Westerly\, Island\, Review of Australian Fiction and Going Down Swinging\, and in anthologies like Australian Love Stories edited by Cate Kennedy\, and the tenth anniversary edition of Award Winning Australian Writing 2017. \nIrma is also the author of five picture books for children\, most recently Where the Heart Is\, featured on Sarah Ferguson’s Storytime channel\, and Seree’s Story. \nFor 24 years Irma has worked as an editor\, and for a decade she was Convener of Editing at the University of Canberra. She is the commissioning editor of a number of anthologies\, including The Sound of Silence\, winner of the ACT Writing and Publishing Awards for Nonfiction\, and The Invisible Thread\, an official publication of the National Year of Reading 2012 and the Centenary of Canberra 2013 which anthologises a century of literature by writers who have called Canberra home\, including Alex Miller\, Marion Halligan\, Roger McDonald\, Kate Grenville\, Omar Musa\, Judith Wright and Les Murray. \nIrma spent her childhood living in a beautiful old Tudor house in south-east England just down the road from Roald Dahl\, and now lives by the beach in Naarm/Melbourne with two boys and a little black cat. \nShe is just a bit keen on travel\, elephants\, beaches\, good coffee\, jumping castles and sunshiny days. She is not at all keen on extreme heights\, spiders and zoos. She is Co-host with Karen Viggers of the writing podcast\, Secrets from the Green Room. Her name is pronounced Ear-ma. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n$11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. \n\nBook on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n\nGet Tickets\n\n \nThis event is part of Ballarat Winter Festival \n\n \n \nThis 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. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/irma-gold/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Ballarat Winter Festival,Fundraiser,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/irma-sq-promo.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250716T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250716T200000 DTSTAMP:20260413T174543 CREATED:20250408T035652Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250408T035944Z UID:64363-1752692400-1752696000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Kadampa Meditation Series | Meditations for A Clear Mind DESCRIPTION:July 9\n@\n7:00 pm\n–\n8:00 pm \nFree – $12 \nLending Library \nThese classes offer simple\, practical methods to improve the quality of our life and develop inner peace\nthrough meditation and Buddhist teachings. \nThe in-person setting fosters a supportive community and\noffers real-time interaction with the teacher for personalized guidance.\nClasses include guided meditations and teachings to help us solve our\ndaily problems and find the lasting happiness we seek. \nBeginners welcome\, no bookings required. \nFree for Kadampa members \nKadampa Meditation Centre Australia (Ballarat Branch)\ninfo@meditateinmelbourne.org | 0455205589\nmeditateinballarat.org\nABN 86 114 195 550\nKMC Australia is a not-for-profit organisation \nThe Teacher\nChristielli Portela has been teaching modern Kadampa Buddhism for a decade. As an experienced and well-loved teacher\, she inspires people to use Buddhist meditation to improve their lives through her sincere example and clear teachings. \n\n \nThis 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. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/kadampa-meditation-series-16-july/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:kadampa ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Clear-Mind-Urban-Ballarat-square-promo.webp ORGANIZER;CN="Kadampa Meditation":MAILTO:info@kadampa.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250718T123000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250718T153000 DTSTAMP:20260413T174543 CREATED:20250625T032957Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250625T033649Z UID:65910-1752841800-1752852600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Royal South Street Society | Freemasons Vocal Schedule DESCRIPTION:July 18\n @\n12:30 pm\n –\n3:30 pm \n\n$8 – $10 \nMinerva Space \nProgram\nOpen age sections including AMEB duet/trio and original song. \n\n \nTickets available at the door $10 Adult – $8 Concession \n \n rsss website\n \n \n \nRoyal South Street Society are a BMI Community Partner \n \nThis 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. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/rsss-vocal-schedule-1/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Important Dates,Royal South Street Society ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/sq-promos3.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250718T170000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250718T213000 DTSTAMP:20260413T174543 CREATED:20240717T012721Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250625T032911Z UID:57382-1752858000-1752874200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Royal South Street Society | Freemasons Vocal Schedule DESCRIPTION:July 18\n@\n5:00 pm\n–\n9:30 pm \n$8 – $10 \nMinerva Space \nProgram\nStrut Your Stuff  \nCompetitors sing two songs showcasing the best of their ability Solo and Accompanist – Dynamic duos working together to create unity Accompanist Masterclass with Daniel Tsujak – all invited to attend \n\nTickets available at the door $10 Adult – $8 Concession \n\nrsss website\n\n\n \nRoyal South Street Society are a BMI Community Partner \n \nThis 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. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/rsss-vocal-schedule/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Important Dates,Royal South Street Society ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/sq-promos3.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250719T100000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250719T213000 DTSTAMP:20260413T174543 CREATED:20250624T031631Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250626T063216Z UID:65790-1752919200-1752960600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Royal South Street Society | Freemasons Vocal Schedule DESCRIPTION:July 19\n@\n10:00 am\n–\n9:30 pm \n$8 – $10 \nMinerva Space \nProgram\nSenior Vocal Sections | 10am – 4pm \nA huge variety of mixed genres and incredible voices. \nSenior Vocal Sections | 5.30pm – 9.30pm \nThe ultimate Stage and Screen Combo challenge \n\nTickets available at the door $10 Adult – $8 Concession \n\nrsss website\n\n\n \nRoyal South Street Society are a BMI Community Partner \n \nThis 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. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/rsss-vocal-schedule-2/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Important Dates,Royal South Street Society ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/sq-promos3.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250720T093000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250720T200000 DTSTAMP:20260413T174543 CREATED:20250624T050147Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250626T063107Z UID:65830-1753003800-1753041600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Royal South Street Society | Freemasons Vocal Schedule DESCRIPTION:July 20\n@\n9:30 am\n–\n8:00 pm \n$8 – $10 \nMinerva Space \nProgram\nVocal Sections 16yrs-18yrs | 9.30am – 4.30pm \nA wide variety of genres including VCE performance. \nVocal Sections 16yrs-18yrs | 6pm – 8pm \nThe ultimate Stage and Screen Combo challenge \n\nTickets available at the door $10 Adult – $8 Concession \n\nrsss website\n\n\n \nRoyal South Street Society are a BMI Community Partner \n \nThis 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. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/rsss-vocal-schedule-3/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Important Dates,Royal South Street Society ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/sq-promos3.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250721T091500 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250721T213000 DTSTAMP:20260413T174543 CREATED:20250624T032442Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250626T063213Z UID:65793-1753089300-1753133400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Royal South Street Society | Schimmel Pianoforte Schedule DESCRIPTION:July 21\n@\n9:15 am\n–\n9:30 pm \n$8 – $10 \nMinerva Space \nProgram\nPianoforte 9yrs and under | 9.15am – 2.30pm \nA showcase of our youngest talent throughout the day. \nPianoforte 12yrs and under | 3pm – 9.30pm \nIncludes duets\, trios\, popular and classical. \n\nTickets available at the door $10 Adult – $8 Concession \n\nrsss website\n\n\n \nRoyal South Street Society are a BMI Community Partner \n \nThis 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. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/rsss-pianoforte-schedule-1/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Important Dates,Royal South Street Society ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/sq-promos2.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250722T091500 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250722T180000 DTSTAMP:20260413T174543 CREATED:20250624T034613Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250626T063205Z UID:65803-1753175700-1753207200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Royal South Street Society | Schimmel Pianoforte Schedule DESCRIPTION:July 22\n@\n9:15 am\n–\n6:00 pm \n$8 – $10 \nMinerva Space \nProgram\nPianoforte 10yrs and under | 9.15am – 6pm \nA showcase of our youngest talent throughout the day. \n\nTickets available at the door $10 Adult – $8 Concession \n\nrsss website\n\n\n \nRoyal South Street Society are a BMI Community Partner \n \nThis 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. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/rsss-pianoforte-schedule-2/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Important Dates,Royal South Street Society ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/sq-promos2.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250722T140000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250722T150000 DTSTAMP:20260413T174543 CREATED:20250527T054132Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250528T004952Z UID:65238-1753192800-1753196400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Day Tours of the Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute | Ballarat Winter Festival 22 July DESCRIPTION:Ballarat Winter Festival \n2 Tours – one at 11am the next at 2pm (the is a limited capacity on these tours)\nA colourful history of the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute and it’s people. \nBy appointment only\, (to organise a volunteer guide we require 24hrs notice). \nGroup Tours: Group tours can also be accommodated on other days\, to do so contact: katrina@ballaratmi.org.au \nCost: $11.78 includes gst and booking fee. \n\nBook here\n\n\nAccessibility\n \nThe Britannia Theatre\, 1920 | Image from the BMI archive\nNew library\, the Batten Room\nHumffray Room\nMinerva Space\nHeritage Reading Room\nTalking point: BMI’s Paula Nicholson\, Member for Wendouree Juliana Addison and BMI Venue Manager Sam McColl under just some of the candle-smoke graffiti in the Basement | Photo courtesy\, Ballarat Times\, photographer Edwina Williams\nThe research material for your tour has been drawn from – Under Minerva’s Gaze: 150 years at the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute (edited by Jill Blee and Phil Roberts). \nThis reference material is available for purchase at the Library or can be purchased via our Shop. \n\nUnder Minerva’s Gaze\n \nThis event is part of the Ballart Winter Festival \n\n \n \nThis 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. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/day-tours-ballarat-winter-festival-3/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Ballarat Heritage Festival,Ballarat Winter Festival,Festival,Fundraiser,Important Dates,Tours ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/BMI-woodcut_bags-low-res-1kb-e1703024949185.jpg END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR