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:20250719T100000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250719T213000 DTSTAMP:20260413T172709 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:20260413T172709 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:20260413T172709 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:20260413T172709 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:20260413T172709 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 BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250723T091500 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250723T210000 DTSTAMP:20260413T172709 CREATED:20250624T035330Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250626T063153Z UID:65806-1753262100-1753304400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Royal South Street Society | Schimmel Pianoforte Schedule DESCRIPTION:July 23\n @\n9:15 am\n –\n9:00 pm \n\n$8 – $10 \nMinerva Space \nProgram\nPianoforte Open Age | 9.15am – 2pm \nTop pianists competing for prizes in classical and popular. \nPianoforte 14yrs and Under | 3pm – 9pm \nCompeting to win the aggregate prize. \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-pianoforte-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-promos2.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250723T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250723T200000 DTSTAMP:20260413T172709 CREATED:20250408T042521Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250408T042633Z UID:64378-1753297200-1753300800@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-23-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:20250724T091500 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250724T163000 DTSTAMP:20260413T172709 CREATED:20250624T035700Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250626T063134Z UID:65807-1753348500-1753374600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Royal South Street Society | Schimmel Pianoforte Schedule DESCRIPTION:July 24\n@\n9:15 am\n–\n4:30 pm \n$8 – $10 \nMinerva Space \nProgram\nPianoforte 11yrs to 14yrs | 9.15am – 4.30pm \nA showcase of 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-4/ 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:20250725T110000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250725T163000 DTSTAMP:20260413T172709 CREATED:20250624T042305Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250626T063123Z UID:65813-1753441200-1753461000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Royal South Street Society | Schimmel Pianoforte Schedule DESCRIPTION:July 25\n@\n11:00 am\n–\n4:00 pm \n$8 – $10 \nMinerva Space \nProgram\nPianoforte 19yrs and under | 11am – 4.30pm \nAn impressive line up of 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-5/ 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:20250726T091500 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250726T183000 DTSTAMP:20260413T172709 CREATED:20250624T064136Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250626T062951Z UID:65868-1753521300-1753554600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Royal South Street Society | Schimmel Pianoforte Schedule DESCRIPTION:July 26\n@\n9:15 am\n–\n6:30 pm \n$8 – $10 \nMinerva Space \nProgram\nPianoforte 16yrs and under\,  9.15am – 1.30pm \nPianoforte 16yrs and under – competing to win the aggregate prize. \nCelebrating Chopin Junior\, 16yrs and under\, 3.30pm – 6.30pm \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-9/ 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:20250727T140000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250727T180000 DTSTAMP:20260413T172709 CREATED:20250624T044813Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250625T050048Z UID:65825-1753624800-1753639200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Royal South Street Society | Schimmel Pianoforte Schedule - Celebrating Chopin DESCRIPTION:July 27\n@\n2:00 pm\n–\n6:00 pm \n$8 – $10 \nMinerva Space \nProgram\nPremier Pianoforte event \nThe Margaret Schofield – Celebrating Chopin Competition \n$9\,000 in prize money\, come and see Australia’s best pianists battle for the prize performing the glorious . \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-7/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Important Dates,Live Music,Royal South Street Society ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/chopin.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250728T093000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250728T173000 DTSTAMP:20260413T172709 CREATED:20250624T052537Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250626T063100Z UID:65835-1753695000-1753723800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Royal South Street Society | Freemasons Vocal Schedule DESCRIPTION:July 28\n@\n9:30 am\n–\n5:30 pm \n$8 – $10 \nMinerva Space \nProgram\nJunior Vocal Sections 10yrs and under \nTiny and talented! \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-4/ 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:20250729T093000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250729T163000 DTSTAMP:20260413T172709 CREATED:20250624T054647Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250626T063035Z UID:65841-1753781400-1753806600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Royal South Street Society | Freemasons Vocal Schedule DESCRIPTION:July 29\n@\n9:30 am\n–\n4:30 pm \n$8 – $10 \nMinerva Space \nProgram\nJunior Vocal Sections 11yrs to under 14yrs \nThe most competitive and largest age group! \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-5/ 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:20250730T093000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250730T190000 DTSTAMP:20260413T172709 CREATED:20250624T060939Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250626T063024Z UID:65852-1753867800-1753902000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Royal South Street Society | Freemasons Vocal Schedule DESCRIPTION:July 30\n@\n9:30 am\n–\n7:00 pm \n$8 – $10 \nMinerva Space \nProgram\nJunior Vocal Sections 11yrs to under 14yrs \nDay two\, competing for the overall aggregate! \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-6/ 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:20250730T183000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250730T193000 DTSTAMP:20260413T172709 CREATED:20250715T014238Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250730T001534Z UID:66248-1753900200-1753903800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Rare Book Week Melbourne | Rare Books in Mechanics' Institutes: Uncover Hidden Treasures DESCRIPTION:July 30\n@\n6:30 pm\n–\n7:30 pm \nPrahran Mechanics’ Institute\nVictorian History Library \nRare Books in Mechanics’ Institutes \nJoin our expert panel featuring librarians from three historic Victorian institutions: the PMI Victorian History Library (est. 1854)\, Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute (est. 1859)\, and Athenaeum Library (est. 1839). \nDelve into the rich history of these community learning hubs\, explore rare books and materials in their collections\, and gain behind-the-scenes insights into rare book collecting. Learn how these libraries are shaping their collections for the future\, preserving our literary heritage for generations to come. \nDon’t miss this unique opportunity to explore Victoria’s literary treasures and engage directly with our knowledgeable panel. \nVictorian Mechanics’ Institutes represented \nAbout PMI Victoiran History Library \nEstablished in 1854\, we are the second oldest public library in Victoria. We have a collection of over 40\,000 items and take pride in being the sole library in Australia with such an extensive collection available for loan. Our focus remains rooted in local history\, housing a wealth of information encompassing most towns in Victoria. \nAbout The Melbourne Ahtenaeum  \nThe Library and Reading Room offers over 30\,000 print\, digital\, and audio books\, a range of magazine and newspaper subscriptions\, and film and TV on DVD for borrowing and use in the library\, and hosts regular music performances\, talks\, book and screen clubs\, and other cultural events. \nAbout The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute  \nEstablished in 1859\, and independently run\, membership to the BMI gives access to our lending library and heritage books and archives\, and discounts on events and hire. All are welcome to visit for tours\, cultural events and exhibitions\, and to hire our unique function rooms. With the addition of a new finishing kitchen\, the BMI is a special venue for holding celebrations\, weddings\, conferences and performances. \nBookings Essential \n\nBookings\n \nLive Streaming \nThis event will be live streamed to the\nPMI History Library YouTube Channel. \n  URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/rare-books-mechanics-institutes/ LOCATION:Prahran Mechanics’ Institute Victorian History Library\, 39 Saint Edmonds Road\, Prahran\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:About us,Important Dates,Rare Book Week,The Collection ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/IMG39-BMI-crop.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250730T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250730T200000 DTSTAMP:20260413T172709 CREATED:20250408T040007Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250408T041032Z UID:64365-1753902000-1753905600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Kadampa Meditation Series | How to Love Yourself & Others 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-30-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/How-to-Love-Yourseld-Others-square-promo.webp ORGANIZER;CN="Kadampa Meditation":MAILTO:info@kadampa.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250731T100000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250731T160000 DTSTAMP:20260413T172709 CREATED:20250624T062123Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250626T063012Z UID:65855-1753956000-1753977600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Royal South Street Society | Freemasons Vocal Schedule DESCRIPTION:July 31\n@\n10:00 am\n–\n4:00 pm \n$8 – $10 \nMinerva Space \nProgram\nJunior Vocal Sections 14yrs to under 16yrs \nA huge variety of mixed genres! \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-7/ 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:20250801T160000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250801T203000 DTSTAMP:20260413T172709 CREATED:20250624T063047Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250626T063002Z UID:65863-1754064000-1754080200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Royal South Street Society | Freemasons Vocal Schedule DESCRIPTION:August 1\n@\n4:00 pm\n–\n8:30 pm \n$8 – $10 \nMinerva Space \nProgram\nChampionship Challenge (Junior) \nArt Song and Lieder (18yrs and over) and a stunning masterclass conducted by Dr Richard Chew – 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-8/ 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:20250802T093000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250802T210000 DTSTAMP:20260413T172709 CREATED:20250625T043529Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250626T063828Z UID:65954-1754127000-1754168400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Royal South Street Society | Freemasons Vocal Schedule & Championship Challenge DESCRIPTION:August 2\n@\n9:30 am\n–\n9:00 pm \n$8 – $10 \nMinerva Space \nProgram\nSenior Classical Vocal \, 9.30am – 3.30pm \nAn impressive classical showcase for 18yrs and over. \nPremire Senior Vocal event\, 5pm – 9pm \nChampionship Challenge\, $1\,000 in prize money. Come and see the finest singers perfroming two contrasting peices. \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-9-2/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Important Dates,Live Music,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:20250803T143000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250803T203000 DTSTAMP:20260413T172709 CREATED:20250624T235217Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250626T062854Z UID:65881-1754231400-1754253000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Royal South Street Society | Herald Sun Aria Heats DESCRIPTION:August 3\n @\n2:30 pm\n –\n8:30 pm \n\n$8 – $10 \nMinerva Space \nProgram\nHerald Sun Aria – Heat 1 – 2.30pm-4.30pm \nHerald Sun Aria – Heat 2 – 6.30pm-8.30pm \n140 Singers vying for their place in the semi-final\, and ultimately their place in theprestigious Herald Sun Aria Final. \nThis is an afternoon and evening of incredible singing and passionate operatic ariasperfromed by the best of Australia’s emerging talent. \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-aria-heats/ 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-promos.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250804T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250804T213000 DTSTAMP:20260413T172709 CREATED:20250625T000219Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250722T042831Z UID:65888-1754335800-1754343000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Royal South Street Society | Herald Sun Aria Semi Final DESCRIPTION:August 4\n@\n7:30 pm\n–\n9:30 pm \n$8 – $10 \nMinerva Space \nProgram\nHerald Sun Aria – Semi Final \nOur premier aria event. \nThis is the event that has helped launch the careers of some of Australia and New Zealand’s most successful operatic stars\, including our Patron\, Dame Kirite Kanawa! \nTonight\, experience the pure magic of Opera with the stars of tomorrow. \nSix of the best will be chosen to perform in the Herald Sun Aria Final to be held at the Melbourne Recital Centre on Sunday 26 October at 3.00PM \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-aria-semi-final/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Important Dates,Live Music,Royal South Street Society,Theatre Production ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/sq-promos.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250806T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250806T193000 DTSTAMP:20260413T172709 CREATED:20250527T025831Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250616T021316Z UID:65197-1754503200-1754508600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In conversation with Chloe Adams & Alli Sinclair DESCRIPTION:August 6\n@\n6:00 pm\n–\n7:30 pm \n$11.78 \nTBA \n\nGet Tickets\n\n \nThe Occupation \nA Woman’s Voice \nChloe Adams \nAlli Sinclair \n‘Assured\, deft\, sophisticated\, Chloe Adams is the real deal’ – Emily Bitto \nA sweeping romantic adventure based on true events of the women’s liberation movement \nThe Occupation | Chloe Adams\n \nIn the autumn of 1949\, two women convene in the parlour of an upmarket Melbourne hotel. Tess is married and childless. Mary\, unwed and pregnant. Over thirty minutes\, Mary agrees to a life-altering pact: to hand over her child. \nOne year earlier\, Mary had arrived in the ruined port of Kure\, where thousands of Australians had established an occupation of the Hiroshima prefecture. Among the rubble\, she finds a surreal expat world of picnics\, parties and uneasy privilege\, while the local population struggles to rebuild. \nThere she meets Sullivan “Sully” Darling\, an Australian journalist. What begins as a weekend trip to the mountains turns into a love affair —one that forces Mary to confront her ideals about the war\, the Allies’ legacy and herself. \nBack in Australia\, the echoes of occupation linger\, as Mary fights to reclaim her place —and her child —in a society determined to possess her. \nFor fans of Colm Tóibín’s Brooklyn\, Kristin Hannah and Sarah Winman\, The Occupation is a tender\, beautifully told novel about love\, legacy and the quiet aftershocks of history. \nWhen violin virtuoso Laura Hartley’s priceless instrument is stolen\, her celebrated European career collapses — and with it\, her rare gift of seeing music in colour. Fleeingto her grandmother’s home in the Australian outback\, Laura discovers anextraordinary legacy woven through sheets of music: a powerful symphony born fromthe revolutionary hearts of suffragettes who refused to be silenced\, their voices risingabove the doomed decks of the Titanic. \nAs she traces each note of this forgotten masterpiece\, Laura uncovers a story of women who dared to fight for a world where every voice could be heard. And when scandal rocks the town of Gungderring\, she must decide: will she stay in thewings\, or step forward and fight? \nAbout the authors\nChloe Adams\nAlli Sinclair\nChloe Adams is the winner of the Penguin Literary Prize 2024. She is a journalist and fiction writer and has been published widely by Australian news mastheads and literary journals. She holds a master’s degree in Creative Writing and a Graduate Certificate of International and Community Development. \n2025 Bestselling\, multi-award-winning author Alli Sinclair uncovers little-known historical events through the eyes of women who defied society’s expectations. A global adventurer\, she transports readers on journeys of discovery across continents and eras. \nWhen not writing\, Alli runs the annual Writers at Sea retreat and crafts narratives for screen as a film and TV producer and screenwriter. \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/chloe-adams-alli-sinclair/ 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-promo-chloe-and-alli-v2.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250806T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250806T200000 DTSTAMP:20260413T172709 CREATED:20250408T041052Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250408T041408Z UID:64372-1754506800-1754510400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Kadampa Meditation Series | How to Love Yourself & Others 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-6-august/ 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/How-to-Love-Yourseld-Others-square-promo.webp ORGANIZER;CN="Kadampa Meditation":MAILTO:info@kadampa.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250810T140000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250810T160000 DTSTAMP:20260413T172709 CREATED:20250512T035956Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250805T061800Z UID:64945-1754834400-1754841600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:The Little Brass Band | BMI Fundraiser: Cheers\, Raise a Glass to Brass DESCRIPTION:August 10\n@\n2:00 pm\n–\n4:00 pm \n$21 – $26.13 \n\nGet Tickets\n \nThe Little Brass Band an award-winning Goldfields Region Brass Quintet\n.\n\n  \nThe Little Brass Band presents a selection of cool jazz and popular tunes. The Bar will be open and complimentary snacks. This is a fundraiser for the BMI. \nThe first half is cool Jazz ranging from New Orleans classics to upbeat Dixieland swing time! For example: Ain’t Misbehav’n\, Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy\, Chattanooga Choo-Choo\, Saints Hallelujah. \nThe second half started out with popular easy listening tunes from movies such as Blues Brothers. Looking at the selection it seemed there was a theme around ‘relationships\, romance\, love of country\, love songs’. \nSo we have a range from Elvis Presley Can’t help falling in love\, The Beatles When I’m 64\, and even from the Lion King Can you feel the love tonight. Finishing off with a lovely arrangement of  I still call Australia Home. \nProgram \n\n\nMore Live Music\n \nGet Tickets: \n$26.13 GA \n$21 BMI Memberss \nIncludes bkg fee & gst.26.13 \n\nGet Tickets\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/little-brass-band/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Fundraiser,Live Music ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/little-brass-band-square-promo.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250813T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250813T200000 DTSTAMP:20260413T172709 CREATED:20250408T041113Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250408T041537Z UID:64373-1755111600-1755115200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Kadampa Meditation Series | How to Love Yourself & Others 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-13-august/ 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/How-to-Love-Yourseld-Others-square-promo.webp ORGANIZER;CN="Kadampa Meditation":MAILTO:info@kadampa.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250815T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250815T193000 DTSTAMP:20260413T172709 CREATED:20250811T041345Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250811T045630Z UID:66767-1755280800-1755286200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:The Secret History of Sharks with Professor John Long | National Science Week DESCRIPTION:August 15\n@\n6:00 pm\n–\n7:30 pm \n$11.78 \nMinerva Space \n\nGet Tickets\n \n\nJoin us for an evening with internationally renowned palaeontologist Professor John Long as he dives deep into the mysterious past of one of nature’s most formidable creatures — the shark! \nAs part of National Science Week\, Professor Long will present his groundbreaking new book\, The Secret History of Sharks: The Rise of the Ocean’s Most Fearsome Predators\, a fascinating journey through 500 million years of evolution. \nFrom ancient megalodons to fearsome great whites\, Professor Long unearths the remarkable story of how sharks came to rule the seas — and what they can teach us about our planet’s ancient history. \nPrepare for a captivating presentation perfect for curious minds of all ages. As a special treat\, Professor Long will also be bringing along real fossil specimens\, including a real fossil tooth of a megalodon – the largest shark to have ever lived! \nThis event is family-friendly\, and budding young palaeontologists are warmly encouraged to attend! It’s a rare chance to see real prehistoric fossils up close and hear firsthand from one of Australia’s most respected science communicators. \nIf you’re keen to sink your teeth into The Secret History of Sharks\, Professor Long will be available for a book signing following the presentation. \n\nSpeaker:John Long \nProf John Long is Strategic Professor in Palaeontology at Flinders. His research investigates the early evolution of vertebrates\, showing how fishes first developed many of the anatomical structures and behaviours now associated with terrestrial animals\, such a limbs\, digits\, lungs\, endocranial structures\, breathing and advanced sexual reproduction. Some of his most recent contributions are the on the origins of digits first appearing in the Devonian fish Elpistostege (a collaboration with Richard Cloutier\, University of Quebec)\, and how the braincase development influenced brain shape in coelacanth fishes (with Hugo Dutel\, Bristol University). Both studies were published in Nature recently. \nProfessor John Long\nTickets and Bookings \nTiekcts: General Admission\, adults – $11 | Child – $8 | BMI Members $8\, includes gst\, plus booking fee. \n\nGet Tickets\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/the-secret-history-of-sharks/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Festival,Fundraiser,Members,Science Week,Talk ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/sq-promo-the-secret-history-of-sharks.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250816T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250816T220000 DTSTAMP:20260413T172709 CREATED:20250605T021537Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250801T031934Z UID:65518-1755372600-1755381600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Craig McLachlan Live & Intimate - Six String Stories DESCRIPTION:August 16\n@\n7:30 pm\n–\n10:00 pm \n$69.90 \n\nGet Tickets\n \nLive & intimate.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \nGet ready Australia for a Night To Remember as Australian heartthob Craig McLachlan brings his unique & exciting Live & Intimate stage show to theatre’s and venues across Australia. \nCraig McLachlan – actor\, singer\, musician & songwriter from TV’s Ramsay Street to 1950’s Ballarat & across stages of the world\, Craig as Henry\, Doctor Blake\, Frank n Furter \, Doctor Zuko\, Ed\, Grant or simply as himself has entertained millions of people for over three decades. \n \nHis Successes include – The Doctor Blake Mysteries\, The Rocky Horror Show\, CSI Los Angles\, Packed To The Rafters\, McLeod’s Daughters\, Grease\, Bugs\, Catherine The Great\, Superfire\, Hating Alison Ashley\, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang\, City Homicide\, The Cut\, Special Ops\, Redfern Now\, Deep Water\, Restoration\, Home and Away\, Neighbour’s – the list goes on and continuous to grow. \nCraig is a Gold Logie\, Aria Winner\, Three Time Silver Logie and Helpmann Award Winner and has several Australian & UK Hit Singles to his name along with some very shiny Gold & Platinum Records he has yodeled with the Bee Gees while waiting to sing for The Queen ! Yes That Queen. ! \nSo join Craig & his snare smackin’ mate Dave\, as he takes you on a strange musical journey! Playing\, singin’\, riffin’ & chatting his way. \n \nGet tickets : $69.90 incl. gst\, booking fee.\nTickets can also be purchased at the Library. \n\nTickets\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/craig-mc-lachlan/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:BMI Produced Event,Live Music,Talk ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/CRAIG-MCLACHLAN-SixStringStories_CM_Hero_draft2-Liam-Mudge.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250820T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250820T193000 DTSTAMP:20260413T172709 CREATED:20250522T034400Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250813T001437Z UID:65063-1755712800-1755718200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with Michael Robotham DESCRIPTION:August 20\n@\n6:00 pm\n–\n7:30 pm \n$11.78 \nHumffray Room \n\nGet Tickets\n \nThe White Crow \nMichael Robotham \n \nShe upholds the law. Her family breaks it. \n‘A twisty-turny\, second-guessing great read with a killer ending’ –\nHerald Sun for ‘When You Are Mine’ \nMichael Robotham\nBeloved character Police Constable Philomena McCarthy\, from When You Are Mine\, returns in a heart stopping thriller from the master of crime. \nAs the daughter of a London crime boss\, PC Philomena McCarthy walks a thin blue line keeping the two sides of her complicated life apart. \nOn patrol one night she discovers a child in pyjamas\, wandering alone. Taking Daisy home\, Phil uncovers the aftermath of a deadly home invasion\, as three miles away a prominent jeweller is found strapped to an explosive in his ransacked store. \nThe crimes are linked\, and all the evidence points to Phil’s father as the mastermind. Phil’s two worlds are colliding\, trapping her in the middle of a vicious gang war that will threaten her career and everyone she loves. \nWho can she trust – the badge or her own blood? \nThe White Crow | Michael Robotham\n\nAbout the author\nMichael Robotham is a former feature writer and investigative reporter\, who has worked in Britain\, Australia and America. His debut thriller\, The Suspect\, introduced clinical psychologist Joe O’Loughlin and sold over one million copies worldwide\, launching a nine-book series. It has been adapted into an ITV series starring Aidan Turner. Michael’s standalone thriller The Secrets She Keeps has also been the basis of two BBC TV series. He has twice won the prestigious UK Crime Writers’ Association Gold Dagger Award for best crime novel\, as well as the Ian Fleming Steel Dagger for When She Was Good\, a Richard & Judy Book Club pick. Michael lives in Sydney.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \nThis event will be supported by Collins Booksellers on Lydiard \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/michael-robotham/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Fundraiser,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/sq-promo-robotham.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250820T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250820T200000 DTSTAMP:20260413T172709 CREATED:20250814T001943Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250814T002105Z UID:66976-1755716400-1755720000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Kadampa Meditation Series | How to Love Yourself & Others 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-20-august/ 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/How-to-Love-Yourseld-Others-square-promo.webp ORGANIZER;CN="Kadampa Meditation":MAILTO:info@kadampa.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250823T140000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250823T170000 DTSTAMP:20260413T172709 CREATED:20250714T045240Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250715T044101Z UID:66222-1755957600-1755968400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Laura J Fitzwilson\, Book Launch - The Fool DESCRIPTION:August 23\n @\n2:00 pm\n –\n5:00 pm \nHeritage Reading Room \nThe Fool \nLaura J. Fitzwilson \n\n \nAfter his parents and brother are assassinated\, Leo is forced to become king of the smallest country on a continent that looks an awful lot like Australia. \nHe faces a kingdom on the brink of bankruptcy and a mistimed sneeze away from being drawn into a war; a murderous cult with a fixation on his family; and … the castle fool is like\, really mean. He better learn how to juggle\, fast. \nAbout Laura J Fitzwilson \n\n Laura J Fitzwilson\nLaura is a writer who specialises in speculative fiction with a focus on people. She was the chairperson of Ballarat Writers in 2023 and served on the committee for six years. \nHer short story “All My Tuesdays” was shortlisted for the 2022 Aurealis Awards. She’s queer\, disabled and wouldn’t want to be anyone else. It is her life’s aspiration to write as fearlessly as the Fast and Furious writers do. \nFollow Laura \n \n \n \n \nRSVP by Wednesday 20 August for catering purposes. \nLight refreshment will be provided. \n \n RSVP here\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/laura-j-fitzwilson/ LOCATION:Heritage Reading Room\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/square-promo-laura-l-fitzwilson.webp END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR