BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute - ECPv6.17.1//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:Australia/Melbourne BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+1100 TZOFFSETTO:+1000 TZNAME:AEST DTSTART:20250405T160000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+1000 TZOFFSETTO:+1100 TZNAME:AEDT DTSTART:20251004T160000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+1100 TZOFFSETTO:+1000 TZNAME:AEST DTSTART:20260404T160000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+1000 TZOFFSETTO:+1100 TZNAME:AEDT DTSTART:20261003T160000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+1100 TZOFFSETTO:+1000 TZNAME:AEST DTSTART:20270403T160000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+1000 TZOFFSETTO:+1100 TZNAME:AEDT DTSTART:20271002T160000 END:DAYLIGHT END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260411T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260411T203000 DTSTAMP:20260331T045326Z CREATED:20260224T002907Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T045326Z UID:70851-1775934000-1775939400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:The Dog Logs\, A Ballarat National Theatre Production DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks 2024\, Season 2\, Session 6: History of Hoyts \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$8 – $12 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This special edition of our regular Twilight Talks series will feature speakers discussing the history of cinema in Ballarat\, complimenting our free exhibition. Just a year after the Lumière brothers invented the cinematograph in 1895\, the first screenings were held at the Mechanics’ Institute\, meaning many had their first ever experience of ‘moving pictures’ in our beautiful Minerva Theatre. Since then\, thousands of movies have been screened in the theatre through its many iterations\, including at the Vegas 70 theatre which is being reactivated for this year’s Heritage Week. Come along from 5.30pm to grab a drink and wander through the exhibition in the Williamson Foyer\, the former candy bar of the cinema\, before the talk.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The BMI’s Twilight Talks series has been a forum for sharing fascinating history and radical futures since 2001\, check out our website for upcoming talks.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Not the Last Picture Show: History of Hoyts\, Ballarat \n \n Hoyts is synonymous with cinema in Australia. As Australia’s oldest and largest cinema\, it has entertained generations of audiences from the silent era through to the present age. At the start of the 20th century\, Melbourne dentist and cornet player Arthur Russell bought a share in a small touring American circus that visited Melbourne\, called Hoyts Circus. Russell toured with the circus as a magician\, but it did not prove to be a financial success. In 1908\, he started presenting moving pictures at St George’s Hall in Bourke Street\, accompanying the silent films with his small family band: his wife on piano\, son on drums\, and Russell on cornet. On 18 September 1909 he opened Hoyts Picture Palace\, and formed a company called Hoyts Pictures Pty Ltd. The old hall was rebuilt and renamed “Hoyts De Luxe”. By the end of World War I\, Hoyts had expanded into the suburbs of Melbourne and into Sydney. The shows included vaudeville acts\, as was common practice in those days. \n \n While countless stories have been shown on Hoyts’ screens\, the story of the Hoyts along with its unique connection with Australian audiences has largely been overlooked. A project is underway that aims to gain an insight into the unique history Hoyts by conducting oral history interviews with Hoyts cinema patrons as well as those who worked there.  We hope that you will participate in this exciting project by sharing your stories\, experiences\, and memories with us through the ‘Share a Story’ page. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Dr Stephen Gaunson \n \n \n \n \n \n Stephen Gaunson is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Media and Communication at RMIT University. He researches cinema histories including the experience of going to the cinema as a social act. Dr Gaunson’s books include The Ned Kelly Films and American–Australian Cinema: Transnational Connections. Steve researches on national and international cinema industries. Over the past few years\, a significant focus of his research has been investigating the social act of going to the cinema. Having built national standing as a leading authority during this time\, in 2022 he secured a grant to research the history of Hoyts Cinemas in Australia\, which will deliver a series of impactful outcomes including a book\, under contract. Steve is Higher Degree Research Director\, DSC\, which is one of three academic colleges at RMIT consisting of eight schools and 750 HDR candidates across a broad range of disciplines and with presence in Vietnam\, Barcelona\, Singapore and China. He leads HDR College activity as it relates to industry partnered projects\, internships and international recruitment strategies. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dr Stephen Gaunson\n \n \n \n More about Research History of Hoyts Cinemas in Australia \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n In the School of Media & Communication\, Steve teaches undergraduate cinema courses on adaptation\, documentary\, national cinema & film history. He can be regularly heard on ABC Melbourne and Radio National as an expert commentator on the national film industry. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Starting at 6pm (bar open at 5.30pm)\, close 7pm. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cost: $12 general admission | $8 BMI members \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2024 Twilight Talks\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Thanks to the support of Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Follow Community Bank Buninyong socials: \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is part of the Ballarat Heritage Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Our Library | New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks – August 2026\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – August 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Message from the Chair | BMI Board of Directors | August 2026\n Events Program Diversity I have heard from many members lately\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 21 HEARTS\, A Theatre 180 Production | Participant Feedback\n 21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/the-dog-logs-11-april/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Ballarat National Theatre,Theatre Production ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/sq-promo-dog-log-222.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Ballarat National Theatre":MAILTO:contact@bnt.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260412T140000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260412T153000 DTSTAMP:20260331T045248Z CREATED:20260224T003215Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T045248Z UID:70853-1776002400-1776007800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:The Dog Logs\, A Ballarat National Theatre Production DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks 2024\, Season 2\, Session 6: History of Hoyts \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$8 – $12 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This special edition of our regular Twilight Talks series will feature speakers discussing the history of cinema in Ballarat\, complimenting our free exhibition. Just a year after the Lumière brothers invented the cinematograph in 1895\, the first screenings were held at the Mechanics’ Institute\, meaning many had their first ever experience of ‘moving pictures’ in our beautiful Minerva Theatre. Since then\, thousands of movies have been screened in the theatre through its many iterations\, including at the Vegas 70 theatre which is being reactivated for this year’s Heritage Week. Come along from 5.30pm to grab a drink and wander through the exhibition in the Williamson Foyer\, the former candy bar of the cinema\, before the talk.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The BMI’s Twilight Talks series has been a forum for sharing fascinating history and radical futures since 2001\, check out our website for upcoming talks.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Not the Last Picture Show: History of Hoyts\, Ballarat \n \n Hoyts is synonymous with cinema in Australia. As Australia’s oldest and largest cinema\, it has entertained generations of audiences from the silent era through to the present age. At the start of the 20th century\, Melbourne dentist and cornet player Arthur Russell bought a share in a small touring American circus that visited Melbourne\, called Hoyts Circus. Russell toured with the circus as a magician\, but it did not prove to be a financial success. In 1908\, he started presenting moving pictures at St George’s Hall in Bourke Street\, accompanying the silent films with his small family band: his wife on piano\, son on drums\, and Russell on cornet. On 18 September 1909 he opened Hoyts Picture Palace\, and formed a company called Hoyts Pictures Pty Ltd. The old hall was rebuilt and renamed “Hoyts De Luxe”. By the end of World War I\, Hoyts had expanded into the suburbs of Melbourne and into Sydney. The shows included vaudeville acts\, as was common practice in those days. \n \n While countless stories have been shown on Hoyts’ screens\, the story of the Hoyts along with its unique connection with Australian audiences has largely been overlooked. A project is underway that aims to gain an insight into the unique history Hoyts by conducting oral history interviews with Hoyts cinema patrons as well as those who worked there.  We hope that you will participate in this exciting project by sharing your stories\, experiences\, and memories with us through the ‘Share a Story’ page. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Dr Stephen Gaunson \n \n \n \n \n \n Stephen Gaunson is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Media and Communication at RMIT University. He researches cinema histories including the experience of going to the cinema as a social act. Dr Gaunson’s books include The Ned Kelly Films and American–Australian Cinema: Transnational Connections. Steve researches on national and international cinema industries. Over the past few years\, a significant focus of his research has been investigating the social act of going to the cinema. Having built national standing as a leading authority during this time\, in 2022 he secured a grant to research the history of Hoyts Cinemas in Australia\, which will deliver a series of impactful outcomes including a book\, under contract. Steve is Higher Degree Research Director\, DSC\, which is one of three academic colleges at RMIT consisting of eight schools and 750 HDR candidates across a broad range of disciplines and with presence in Vietnam\, Barcelona\, Singapore and China. He leads HDR College activity as it relates to industry partnered projects\, internships and international recruitment strategies. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dr Stephen Gaunson\n \n \n \n More about Research History of Hoyts Cinemas in Australia \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n In the School of Media & Communication\, Steve teaches undergraduate cinema courses on adaptation\, documentary\, national cinema & film history. He can be regularly heard on ABC Melbourne and Radio National as an expert commentator on the national film industry. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Starting at 6pm (bar open at 5.30pm)\, close 7pm. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cost: $12 general admission | $8 BMI members \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2024 Twilight Talks\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Thanks to the support of Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Follow Community Bank Buninyong socials: \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is part of the Ballarat Heritage Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Our Library | New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks – August 2026\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – August 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Message from the Chair | BMI Board of Directors | August 2026\n Events Program Diversity I have heard from many members lately\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 21 HEARTS\, A Theatre 180 Production | Participant Feedback\n 21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/the-dog-logs-12-april/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Ballarat National Theatre,Theatre Production ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/sq-promo-dog-log-222.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Ballarat National Theatre":MAILTO:contact@bnt.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260412T150000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260412T170000 DTSTAMP:20260331T045211Z CREATED:20251203T013015Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T045211Z UID:69291-1776006000-1776013200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Brian Chapman & Friends: A Trio of Stunning Piano Quartets DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks 2024\, Season 2\, Session 6: History of Hoyts \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$8 – $12 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This special edition of our regular Twilight Talks series will feature speakers discussing the history of cinema in Ballarat\, complimenting our free exhibition. Just a year after the Lumière brothers invented the cinematograph in 1895\, the first screenings were held at the Mechanics’ Institute\, meaning many had their first ever experience of ‘moving pictures’ in our beautiful Minerva Theatre. Since then\, thousands of movies have been screened in the theatre through its many iterations\, including at the Vegas 70 theatre which is being reactivated for this year’s Heritage Week. Come along from 5.30pm to grab a drink and wander through the exhibition in the Williamson Foyer\, the former candy bar of the cinema\, before the talk.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The BMI’s Twilight Talks series has been a forum for sharing fascinating history and radical futures since 2001\, check out our website for upcoming talks.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Not the Last Picture Show: History of Hoyts\, Ballarat \n \n Hoyts is synonymous with cinema in Australia. As Australia’s oldest and largest cinema\, it has entertained generations of audiences from the silent era through to the present age. At the start of the 20th century\, Melbourne dentist and cornet player Arthur Russell bought a share in a small touring American circus that visited Melbourne\, called Hoyts Circus. Russell toured with the circus as a magician\, but it did not prove to be a financial success. In 1908\, he started presenting moving pictures at St George’s Hall in Bourke Street\, accompanying the silent films with his small family band: his wife on piano\, son on drums\, and Russell on cornet. On 18 September 1909 he opened Hoyts Picture Palace\, and formed a company called Hoyts Pictures Pty Ltd. The old hall was rebuilt and renamed “Hoyts De Luxe”. By the end of World War I\, Hoyts had expanded into the suburbs of Melbourne and into Sydney. The shows included vaudeville acts\, as was common practice in those days. \n \n While countless stories have been shown on Hoyts’ screens\, the story of the Hoyts along with its unique connection with Australian audiences has largely been overlooked. A project is underway that aims to gain an insight into the unique history Hoyts by conducting oral history interviews with Hoyts cinema patrons as well as those who worked there.  We hope that you will participate in this exciting project by sharing your stories\, experiences\, and memories with us through the ‘Share a Story’ page. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Dr Stephen Gaunson \n \n \n \n \n \n Stephen Gaunson is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Media and Communication at RMIT University. He researches cinema histories including the experience of going to the cinema as a social act. Dr Gaunson’s books include The Ned Kelly Films and American–Australian Cinema: Transnational Connections. Steve researches on national and international cinema industries. Over the past few years\, a significant focus of his research has been investigating the social act of going to the cinema. Having built national standing as a leading authority during this time\, in 2022 he secured a grant to research the history of Hoyts Cinemas in Australia\, which will deliver a series of impactful outcomes including a book\, under contract. Steve is Higher Degree Research Director\, DSC\, which is one of three academic colleges at RMIT consisting of eight schools and 750 HDR candidates across a broad range of disciplines and with presence in Vietnam\, Barcelona\, Singapore and China. He leads HDR College activity as it relates to industry partnered projects\, internships and international recruitment strategies. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dr Stephen Gaunson\n \n \n \n More about Research History of Hoyts Cinemas in Australia \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n In the School of Media & Communication\, Steve teaches undergraduate cinema courses on adaptation\, documentary\, national cinema & film history. He can be regularly heard on ABC Melbourne and Radio National as an expert commentator on the national film industry. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Starting at 6pm (bar open at 5.30pm)\, close 7pm. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cost: $12 general admission | $8 BMI members \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2024 Twilight Talks\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Thanks to the support of Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Follow Community Bank Buninyong socials: \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is part of the Ballarat Heritage Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Our Library | New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks – August 2026\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – August 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Message from the Chair | BMI Board of Directors | August 2026\n Events Program Diversity I have heard from many members lately\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 21 HEARTS\, A Theatre 180 Production | Participant Feedback\n 21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/trio-piano-quartets/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Classical Music,Live Music,Victorian Seniors Festival ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/sq-promo-brian-champman-final.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260414T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260414T193000 DTSTAMP:20260331T045131Z CREATED:20260303T223948Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T045131Z UID:71084-1776189600-1776195000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with Gerardine Christou: The story of Peg Rankin DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks 2024\, Season 2\, Session 6: History of Hoyts \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$8 – $12 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This special edition of our regular Twilight Talks series will feature speakers discussing the history of cinema in Ballarat\, complimenting our free exhibition. Just a year after the Lumière brothers invented the cinematograph in 1895\, the first screenings were held at the Mechanics’ Institute\, meaning many had their first ever experience of ‘moving pictures’ in our beautiful Minerva Theatre. Since then\, thousands of movies have been screened in the theatre through its many iterations\, including at the Vegas 70 theatre which is being reactivated for this year’s Heritage Week. Come along from 5.30pm to grab a drink and wander through the exhibition in the Williamson Foyer\, the former candy bar of the cinema\, before the talk.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The BMI’s Twilight Talks series has been a forum for sharing fascinating history and radical futures since 2001\, check out our website for upcoming talks.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Not the Last Picture Show: History of Hoyts\, Ballarat \n \n Hoyts is synonymous with cinema in Australia. As Australia’s oldest and largest cinema\, it has entertained generations of audiences from the silent era through to the present age. At the start of the 20th century\, Melbourne dentist and cornet player Arthur Russell bought a share in a small touring American circus that visited Melbourne\, called Hoyts Circus. Russell toured with the circus as a magician\, but it did not prove to be a financial success. In 1908\, he started presenting moving pictures at St George’s Hall in Bourke Street\, accompanying the silent films with his small family band: his wife on piano\, son on drums\, and Russell on cornet. On 18 September 1909 he opened Hoyts Picture Palace\, and formed a company called Hoyts Pictures Pty Ltd. The old hall was rebuilt and renamed “Hoyts De Luxe”. By the end of World War I\, Hoyts had expanded into the suburbs of Melbourne and into Sydney. The shows included vaudeville acts\, as was common practice in those days. \n \n While countless stories have been shown on Hoyts’ screens\, the story of the Hoyts along with its unique connection with Australian audiences has largely been overlooked. A project is underway that aims to gain an insight into the unique history Hoyts by conducting oral history interviews with Hoyts cinema patrons as well as those who worked there.  We hope that you will participate in this exciting project by sharing your stories\, experiences\, and memories with us through the ‘Share a Story’ page. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Dr Stephen Gaunson \n \n \n \n \n \n Stephen Gaunson is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Media and Communication at RMIT University. He researches cinema histories including the experience of going to the cinema as a social act. Dr Gaunson’s books include The Ned Kelly Films and American–Australian Cinema: Transnational Connections. Steve researches on national and international cinema industries. Over the past few years\, a significant focus of his research has been investigating the social act of going to the cinema. Having built national standing as a leading authority during this time\, in 2022 he secured a grant to research the history of Hoyts Cinemas in Australia\, which will deliver a series of impactful outcomes including a book\, under contract. Steve is Higher Degree Research Director\, DSC\, which is one of three academic colleges at RMIT consisting of eight schools and 750 HDR candidates across a broad range of disciplines and with presence in Vietnam\, Barcelona\, Singapore and China. He leads HDR College activity as it relates to industry partnered projects\, internships and international recruitment strategies. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dr Stephen Gaunson\n \n \n \n More about Research History of Hoyts Cinemas in Australia \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n In the School of Media & Communication\, Steve teaches undergraduate cinema courses on adaptation\, documentary\, national cinema & film history. He can be regularly heard on ABC Melbourne and Radio National as an expert commentator on the national film industry. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Starting at 6pm (bar open at 5.30pm)\, close 7pm. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cost: $12 general admission | $8 BMI members \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2024 Twilight Talks\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Thanks to the support of Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Follow Community Bank Buninyong socials: \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is part of the Ballarat Heritage Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Our Library | New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks – August 2026\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – August 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Message from the Chair | BMI Board of Directors | August 2026\n Events Program Diversity I have heard from many members lately\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 21 HEARTS\, A Theatre 180 Production | Participant Feedback\n 21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/in-conversation-with-gerardine-christou/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/sp-promo-talks-v4.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260415T173000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260415T183000 DTSTAMP:20260331T033540Z CREATED:20260316T052458Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T033540Z UID:71316-1776274200-1776277800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat - Henry Lawson in Ballarat revisited DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks 2024\, Season 2\, Session 6: History of Hoyts \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$8 – $12 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This special edition of our regular Twilight Talks series will feature speakers discussing the history of cinema in Ballarat\, complimenting our free exhibition. Just a year after the Lumière brothers invented the cinematograph in 1895\, the first screenings were held at the Mechanics’ Institute\, meaning many had their first ever experience of ‘moving pictures’ in our beautiful Minerva Theatre. Since then\, thousands of movies have been screened in the theatre through its many iterations\, including at the Vegas 70 theatre which is being reactivated for this year’s Heritage Week. Come along from 5.30pm to grab a drink and wander through the exhibition in the Williamson Foyer\, the former candy bar of the cinema\, before the talk.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The BMI’s Twilight Talks series has been a forum for sharing fascinating history and radical futures since 2001\, check out our website for upcoming talks.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Not the Last Picture Show: History of Hoyts\, Ballarat \n \n Hoyts is synonymous with cinema in Australia. As Australia’s oldest and largest cinema\, it has entertained generations of audiences from the silent era through to the present age. At the start of the 20th century\, Melbourne dentist and cornet player Arthur Russell bought a share in a small touring American circus that visited Melbourne\, called Hoyts Circus. Russell toured with the circus as a magician\, but it did not prove to be a financial success. In 1908\, he started presenting moving pictures at St George’s Hall in Bourke Street\, accompanying the silent films with his small family band: his wife on piano\, son on drums\, and Russell on cornet. On 18 September 1909 he opened Hoyts Picture Palace\, and formed a company called Hoyts Pictures Pty Ltd. The old hall was rebuilt and renamed “Hoyts De Luxe”. By the end of World War I\, Hoyts had expanded into the suburbs of Melbourne and into Sydney. The shows included vaudeville acts\, as was common practice in those days. \n \n While countless stories have been shown on Hoyts’ screens\, the story of the Hoyts along with its unique connection with Australian audiences has largely been overlooked. A project is underway that aims to gain an insight into the unique history Hoyts by conducting oral history interviews with Hoyts cinema patrons as well as those who worked there.  We hope that you will participate in this exciting project by sharing your stories\, experiences\, and memories with us through the ‘Share a Story’ page. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Dr Stephen Gaunson \n \n \n \n \n \n Stephen Gaunson is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Media and Communication at RMIT University. He researches cinema histories including the experience of going to the cinema as a social act. Dr Gaunson’s books include The Ned Kelly Films and American–Australian Cinema: Transnational Connections. Steve researches on national and international cinema industries. Over the past few years\, a significant focus of his research has been investigating the social act of going to the cinema. Having built national standing as a leading authority during this time\, in 2022 he secured a grant to research the history of Hoyts Cinemas in Australia\, which will deliver a series of impactful outcomes including a book\, under contract. Steve is Higher Degree Research Director\, DSC\, which is one of three academic colleges at RMIT consisting of eight schools and 750 HDR candidates across a broad range of disciplines and with presence in Vietnam\, Barcelona\, Singapore and China. He leads HDR College activity as it relates to industry partnered projects\, internships and international recruitment strategies. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dr Stephen Gaunson\n \n \n \n More about Research History of Hoyts Cinemas in Australia \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n In the School of Media & Communication\, Steve teaches undergraduate cinema courses on adaptation\, documentary\, national cinema & film history. He can be regularly heard on ABC Melbourne and Radio National as an expert commentator on the national film industry. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Starting at 6pm (bar open at 5.30pm)\, close 7pm. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cost: $12 general admission | $8 BMI members \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2024 Twilight Talks\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Thanks to the support of Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Follow Community Bank Buninyong socials: \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is part of the Ballarat Heritage Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Our Library | New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks – August 2026\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – August 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Message from the Chair | BMI Board of Directors | August 2026\n Events Program Diversity I have heard from many members lately\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 21 HEARTS\, A Theatre 180 Production | Participant Feedback\n 21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/twilight-talks-focus-on-ballarat-henry-lawson-in-ballarat-revisited/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Twilight Talks ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/square-promo-2025-henry-lawson-ballarat-revisited.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260415T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260415T200000 DTSTAMP:20260331T045101Z CREATED:20260302T012118Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T045101Z UID:71022-1776279600-1776283200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Kadampa Meditation Series | Love Changes Everything: How to Transform Yourself & the World Around You DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks 2024\, Season 2\, Session 6: History of Hoyts \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$8 – $12 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This special edition of our regular Twilight Talks series will feature speakers discussing the history of cinema in Ballarat\, complimenting our free exhibition. Just a year after the Lumière brothers invented the cinematograph in 1895\, the first screenings were held at the Mechanics’ Institute\, meaning many had their first ever experience of ‘moving pictures’ in our beautiful Minerva Theatre. Since then\, thousands of movies have been screened in the theatre through its many iterations\, including at the Vegas 70 theatre which is being reactivated for this year’s Heritage Week. Come along from 5.30pm to grab a drink and wander through the exhibition in the Williamson Foyer\, the former candy bar of the cinema\, before the talk.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The BMI’s Twilight Talks series has been a forum for sharing fascinating history and radical futures since 2001\, check out our website for upcoming talks.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Not the Last Picture Show: History of Hoyts\, Ballarat \n \n Hoyts is synonymous with cinema in Australia. As Australia’s oldest and largest cinema\, it has entertained generations of audiences from the silent era through to the present age. At the start of the 20th century\, Melbourne dentist and cornet player Arthur Russell bought a share in a small touring American circus that visited Melbourne\, called Hoyts Circus. Russell toured with the circus as a magician\, but it did not prove to be a financial success. In 1908\, he started presenting moving pictures at St George’s Hall in Bourke Street\, accompanying the silent films with his small family band: his wife on piano\, son on drums\, and Russell on cornet. On 18 September 1909 he opened Hoyts Picture Palace\, and formed a company called Hoyts Pictures Pty Ltd. The old hall was rebuilt and renamed “Hoyts De Luxe”. By the end of World War I\, Hoyts had expanded into the suburbs of Melbourne and into Sydney. The shows included vaudeville acts\, as was common practice in those days. \n \n While countless stories have been shown on Hoyts’ screens\, the story of the Hoyts along with its unique connection with Australian audiences has largely been overlooked. A project is underway that aims to gain an insight into the unique history Hoyts by conducting oral history interviews with Hoyts cinema patrons as well as those who worked there.  We hope that you will participate in this exciting project by sharing your stories\, experiences\, and memories with us through the ‘Share a Story’ page. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Dr Stephen Gaunson \n \n \n \n \n \n Stephen Gaunson is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Media and Communication at RMIT University. He researches cinema histories including the experience of going to the cinema as a social act. Dr Gaunson’s books include The Ned Kelly Films and American–Australian Cinema: Transnational Connections. Steve researches on national and international cinema industries. Over the past few years\, a significant focus of his research has been investigating the social act of going to the cinema. Having built national standing as a leading authority during this time\, in 2022 he secured a grant to research the history of Hoyts Cinemas in Australia\, which will deliver a series of impactful outcomes including a book\, under contract. Steve is Higher Degree Research Director\, DSC\, which is one of three academic colleges at RMIT consisting of eight schools and 750 HDR candidates across a broad range of disciplines and with presence in Vietnam\, Barcelona\, Singapore and China. He leads HDR College activity as it relates to industry partnered projects\, internships and international recruitment strategies. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dr Stephen Gaunson\n \n \n \n More about Research History of Hoyts Cinemas in Australia \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n In the School of Media & Communication\, Steve teaches undergraduate cinema courses on adaptation\, documentary\, national cinema & film history. He can be regularly heard on ABC Melbourne and Radio National as an expert commentator on the national film industry. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Starting at 6pm (bar open at 5.30pm)\, close 7pm. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cost: $12 general admission | $8 BMI members \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2024 Twilight Talks\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Thanks to the support of Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Follow Community Bank Buninyong socials: \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is part of the Ballarat Heritage Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Our Library | New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks – August 2026\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – August 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Message from the Chair | BMI Board of Directors | August 2026\n Events Program Diversity I have heard from many members lately\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 21 HEARTS\, A Theatre 180 Production | Participant Feedback\n 21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/kadampa-meditation-series-15-apr/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:kadampa ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/3-Love-Changes-BMI-Square.png ORGANIZER;CN="Kadampa Meditation":MAILTO:info@kadampa.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260415T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260415T203000 DTSTAMP:20260331T045021Z CREATED:20260224T003422Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T045021Z UID:70855-1776279600-1776285000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:The Dog Logs\, A Ballarat National Theatre Production DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks 2024\, Season 2\, Session 6: History of Hoyts \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$8 – $12 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This special edition of our regular Twilight Talks series will feature speakers discussing the history of cinema in Ballarat\, complimenting our free exhibition. Just a year after the Lumière brothers invented the cinematograph in 1895\, the first screenings were held at the Mechanics’ Institute\, meaning many had their first ever experience of ‘moving pictures’ in our beautiful Minerva Theatre. Since then\, thousands of movies have been screened in the theatre through its many iterations\, including at the Vegas 70 theatre which is being reactivated for this year’s Heritage Week. Come along from 5.30pm to grab a drink and wander through the exhibition in the Williamson Foyer\, the former candy bar of the cinema\, before the talk.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The BMI’s Twilight Talks series has been a forum for sharing fascinating history and radical futures since 2001\, check out our website for upcoming talks.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Not the Last Picture Show: History of Hoyts\, Ballarat \n \n Hoyts is synonymous with cinema in Australia. As Australia’s oldest and largest cinema\, it has entertained generations of audiences from the silent era through to the present age. At the start of the 20th century\, Melbourne dentist and cornet player Arthur Russell bought a share in a small touring American circus that visited Melbourne\, called Hoyts Circus. Russell toured with the circus as a magician\, but it did not prove to be a financial success. In 1908\, he started presenting moving pictures at St George’s Hall in Bourke Street\, accompanying the silent films with his small family band: his wife on piano\, son on drums\, and Russell on cornet. On 18 September 1909 he opened Hoyts Picture Palace\, and formed a company called Hoyts Pictures Pty Ltd. The old hall was rebuilt and renamed “Hoyts De Luxe”. By the end of World War I\, Hoyts had expanded into the suburbs of Melbourne and into Sydney. The shows included vaudeville acts\, as was common practice in those days. \n \n While countless stories have been shown on Hoyts’ screens\, the story of the Hoyts along with its unique connection with Australian audiences has largely been overlooked. A project is underway that aims to gain an insight into the unique history Hoyts by conducting oral history interviews with Hoyts cinema patrons as well as those who worked there.  We hope that you will participate in this exciting project by sharing your stories\, experiences\, and memories with us through the ‘Share a Story’ page. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Dr Stephen Gaunson \n \n \n \n \n \n Stephen Gaunson is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Media and Communication at RMIT University. He researches cinema histories including the experience of going to the cinema as a social act. Dr Gaunson’s books include The Ned Kelly Films and American–Australian Cinema: Transnational Connections. Steve researches on national and international cinema industries. Over the past few years\, a significant focus of his research has been investigating the social act of going to the cinema. Having built national standing as a leading authority during this time\, in 2022 he secured a grant to research the history of Hoyts Cinemas in Australia\, which will deliver a series of impactful outcomes including a book\, under contract. Steve is Higher Degree Research Director\, DSC\, which is one of three academic colleges at RMIT consisting of eight schools and 750 HDR candidates across a broad range of disciplines and with presence in Vietnam\, Barcelona\, Singapore and China. He leads HDR College activity as it relates to industry partnered projects\, internships and international recruitment strategies. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dr Stephen Gaunson\n \n \n \n More about Research History of Hoyts Cinemas in Australia \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n In the School of Media & Communication\, Steve teaches undergraduate cinema courses on adaptation\, documentary\, national cinema & film history. He can be regularly heard on ABC Melbourne and Radio National as an expert commentator on the national film industry. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Starting at 6pm (bar open at 5.30pm)\, close 7pm. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cost: $12 general admission | $8 BMI members \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2024 Twilight Talks\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Thanks to the support of Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Follow Community Bank Buninyong socials: \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is part of the Ballarat Heritage Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Our Library | New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks – August 2026\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – August 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Message from the Chair | BMI Board of Directors | August 2026\n Events Program Diversity I have heard from many members lately\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 21 HEARTS\, A Theatre 180 Production | Participant Feedback\n 21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/the-dog-logs-15-april/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Ballarat National Theatre,Theatre Production ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/sq-promo-dog-log-222.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Ballarat National Theatre":MAILTO:contact@bnt.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260416T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260416T203000 DTSTAMP:20260331T044945Z CREATED:20260224T003558Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T044945Z UID:70857-1776366000-1776371400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:The Dog Logs\, A Ballarat National Theatre Production DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks 2024\, Season 2\, Session 6: History of Hoyts \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$8 – $12 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This special edition of our regular Twilight Talks series will feature speakers discussing the history of cinema in Ballarat\, complimenting our free exhibition. Just a year after the Lumière brothers invented the cinematograph in 1895\, the first screenings were held at the Mechanics’ Institute\, meaning many had their first ever experience of ‘moving pictures’ in our beautiful Minerva Theatre. Since then\, thousands of movies have been screened in the theatre through its many iterations\, including at the Vegas 70 theatre which is being reactivated for this year’s Heritage Week. Come along from 5.30pm to grab a drink and wander through the exhibition in the Williamson Foyer\, the former candy bar of the cinema\, before the talk.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The BMI’s Twilight Talks series has been a forum for sharing fascinating history and radical futures since 2001\, check out our website for upcoming talks.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Not the Last Picture Show: History of Hoyts\, Ballarat \n \n Hoyts is synonymous with cinema in Australia. As Australia’s oldest and largest cinema\, it has entertained generations of audiences from the silent era through to the present age. At the start of the 20th century\, Melbourne dentist and cornet player Arthur Russell bought a share in a small touring American circus that visited Melbourne\, called Hoyts Circus. Russell toured with the circus as a magician\, but it did not prove to be a financial success. In 1908\, he started presenting moving pictures at St George’s Hall in Bourke Street\, accompanying the silent films with his small family band: his wife on piano\, son on drums\, and Russell on cornet. On 18 September 1909 he opened Hoyts Picture Palace\, and formed a company called Hoyts Pictures Pty Ltd. The old hall was rebuilt and renamed “Hoyts De Luxe”. By the end of World War I\, Hoyts had expanded into the suburbs of Melbourne and into Sydney. The shows included vaudeville acts\, as was common practice in those days. \n \n While countless stories have been shown on Hoyts’ screens\, the story of the Hoyts along with its unique connection with Australian audiences has largely been overlooked. A project is underway that aims to gain an insight into the unique history Hoyts by conducting oral history interviews with Hoyts cinema patrons as well as those who worked there.  We hope that you will participate in this exciting project by sharing your stories\, experiences\, and memories with us through the ‘Share a Story’ page. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Dr Stephen Gaunson \n \n \n \n \n \n Stephen Gaunson is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Media and Communication at RMIT University. He researches cinema histories including the experience of going to the cinema as a social act. Dr Gaunson’s books include The Ned Kelly Films and American–Australian Cinema: Transnational Connections. Steve researches on national and international cinema industries. Over the past few years\, a significant focus of his research has been investigating the social act of going to the cinema. Having built national standing as a leading authority during this time\, in 2022 he secured a grant to research the history of Hoyts Cinemas in Australia\, which will deliver a series of impactful outcomes including a book\, under contract. Steve is Higher Degree Research Director\, DSC\, which is one of three academic colleges at RMIT consisting of eight schools and 750 HDR candidates across a broad range of disciplines and with presence in Vietnam\, Barcelona\, Singapore and China. He leads HDR College activity as it relates to industry partnered projects\, internships and international recruitment strategies. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dr Stephen Gaunson\n \n \n \n More about Research History of Hoyts Cinemas in Australia \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n In the School of Media & Communication\, Steve teaches undergraduate cinema courses on adaptation\, documentary\, national cinema & film history. He can be regularly heard on ABC Melbourne and Radio National as an expert commentator on the national film industry. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Starting at 6pm (bar open at 5.30pm)\, close 7pm. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cost: $12 general admission | $8 BMI members \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2024 Twilight Talks\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Thanks to the support of Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Follow Community Bank Buninyong socials: \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is part of the Ballarat Heritage Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Our Library | New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks – August 2026\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – August 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Message from the Chair | BMI Board of Directors | August 2026\n Events Program Diversity I have heard from many members lately\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 21 HEARTS\, A Theatre 180 Production | Participant Feedback\n 21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/the-dog-logs-16-april/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Ballarat National Theatre,Theatre Production ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/sq-promo-dog-log-222.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Ballarat National Theatre":MAILTO:contact@bnt.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260417T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260417T203000 DTSTAMP:20260331T044911Z CREATED:20260224T003714Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T044911Z UID:70859-1776452400-1776457800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:The Dog Logs\, A Ballarat National Theatre Production DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks 2024\, Season 2\, Session 6: History of Hoyts \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$8 – $12 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This special edition of our regular Twilight Talks series will feature speakers discussing the history of cinema in Ballarat\, complimenting our free exhibition. Just a year after the Lumière brothers invented the cinematograph in 1895\, the first screenings were held at the Mechanics’ Institute\, meaning many had their first ever experience of ‘moving pictures’ in our beautiful Minerva Theatre. Since then\, thousands of movies have been screened in the theatre through its many iterations\, including at the Vegas 70 theatre which is being reactivated for this year’s Heritage Week. Come along from 5.30pm to grab a drink and wander through the exhibition in the Williamson Foyer\, the former candy bar of the cinema\, before the talk.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The BMI’s Twilight Talks series has been a forum for sharing fascinating history and radical futures since 2001\, check out our website for upcoming talks.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Not the Last Picture Show: History of Hoyts\, Ballarat \n \n Hoyts is synonymous with cinema in Australia. As Australia’s oldest and largest cinema\, it has entertained generations of audiences from the silent era through to the present age. At the start of the 20th century\, Melbourne dentist and cornet player Arthur Russell bought a share in a small touring American circus that visited Melbourne\, called Hoyts Circus. Russell toured with the circus as a magician\, but it did not prove to be a financial success. In 1908\, he started presenting moving pictures at St George’s Hall in Bourke Street\, accompanying the silent films with his small family band: his wife on piano\, son on drums\, and Russell on cornet. On 18 September 1909 he opened Hoyts Picture Palace\, and formed a company called Hoyts Pictures Pty Ltd. The old hall was rebuilt and renamed “Hoyts De Luxe”. By the end of World War I\, Hoyts had expanded into the suburbs of Melbourne and into Sydney. The shows included vaudeville acts\, as was common practice in those days. \n \n While countless stories have been shown on Hoyts’ screens\, the story of the Hoyts along with its unique connection with Australian audiences has largely been overlooked. A project is underway that aims to gain an insight into the unique history Hoyts by conducting oral history interviews with Hoyts cinema patrons as well as those who worked there.  We hope that you will participate in this exciting project by sharing your stories\, experiences\, and memories with us through the ‘Share a Story’ page. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Dr Stephen Gaunson \n \n \n \n \n \n Stephen Gaunson is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Media and Communication at RMIT University. He researches cinema histories including the experience of going to the cinema as a social act. Dr Gaunson’s books include The Ned Kelly Films and American–Australian Cinema: Transnational Connections. Steve researches on national and international cinema industries. Over the past few years\, a significant focus of his research has been investigating the social act of going to the cinema. Having built national standing as a leading authority during this time\, in 2022 he secured a grant to research the history of Hoyts Cinemas in Australia\, which will deliver a series of impactful outcomes including a book\, under contract. Steve is Higher Degree Research Director\, DSC\, which is one of three academic colleges at RMIT consisting of eight schools and 750 HDR candidates across a broad range of disciplines and with presence in Vietnam\, Barcelona\, Singapore and China. He leads HDR College activity as it relates to industry partnered projects\, internships and international recruitment strategies. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dr Stephen Gaunson\n \n \n \n More about Research History of Hoyts Cinemas in Australia \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n In the School of Media & Communication\, Steve teaches undergraduate cinema courses on adaptation\, documentary\, national cinema & film history. He can be regularly heard on ABC Melbourne and Radio National as an expert commentator on the national film industry. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Starting at 6pm (bar open at 5.30pm)\, close 7pm. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cost: $12 general admission | $8 BMI members \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2024 Twilight Talks\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Thanks to the support of Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Follow Community Bank Buninyong socials: \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is part of the Ballarat Heritage Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Our Library | New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks – August 2026\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – August 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Message from the Chair | BMI Board of Directors | August 2026\n Events Program Diversity I have heard from many members lately\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 21 HEARTS\, A Theatre 180 Production | Participant Feedback\n 21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/the-dog-logs-17-april/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Ballarat National Theatre,Theatre Production ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/sq-promo-dog-log-222.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Ballarat National Theatre":MAILTO:contact@bnt.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260418T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260418T203000 DTSTAMP:20260331T044832Z CREATED:20260224T003813Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T044832Z UID:70861-1776538800-1776544200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:The Dog Logs\, A Ballarat National Theatre Production DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks 2024\, Season 2\, Session 6: History of Hoyts \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$8 – $12 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This special edition of our regular Twilight Talks series will feature speakers discussing the history of cinema in Ballarat\, complimenting our free exhibition. Just a year after the Lumière brothers invented the cinematograph in 1895\, the first screenings were held at the Mechanics’ Institute\, meaning many had their first ever experience of ‘moving pictures’ in our beautiful Minerva Theatre. Since then\, thousands of movies have been screened in the theatre through its many iterations\, including at the Vegas 70 theatre which is being reactivated for this year’s Heritage Week. Come along from 5.30pm to grab a drink and wander through the exhibition in the Williamson Foyer\, the former candy bar of the cinema\, before the talk.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The BMI’s Twilight Talks series has been a forum for sharing fascinating history and radical futures since 2001\, check out our website for upcoming talks.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Not the Last Picture Show: History of Hoyts\, Ballarat \n \n Hoyts is synonymous with cinema in Australia. As Australia’s oldest and largest cinema\, it has entertained generations of audiences from the silent era through to the present age. At the start of the 20th century\, Melbourne dentist and cornet player Arthur Russell bought a share in a small touring American circus that visited Melbourne\, called Hoyts Circus. Russell toured with the circus as a magician\, but it did not prove to be a financial success. In 1908\, he started presenting moving pictures at St George’s Hall in Bourke Street\, accompanying the silent films with his small family band: his wife on piano\, son on drums\, and Russell on cornet. On 18 September 1909 he opened Hoyts Picture Palace\, and formed a company called Hoyts Pictures Pty Ltd. The old hall was rebuilt and renamed “Hoyts De Luxe”. By the end of World War I\, Hoyts had expanded into the suburbs of Melbourne and into Sydney. The shows included vaudeville acts\, as was common practice in those days. \n \n While countless stories have been shown on Hoyts’ screens\, the story of the Hoyts along with its unique connection with Australian audiences has largely been overlooked. A project is underway that aims to gain an insight into the unique history Hoyts by conducting oral history interviews with Hoyts cinema patrons as well as those who worked there.  We hope that you will participate in this exciting project by sharing your stories\, experiences\, and memories with us through the ‘Share a Story’ page. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Dr Stephen Gaunson \n \n \n \n \n \n Stephen Gaunson is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Media and Communication at RMIT University. He researches cinema histories including the experience of going to the cinema as a social act. Dr Gaunson’s books include The Ned Kelly Films and American–Australian Cinema: Transnational Connections. Steve researches on national and international cinema industries. Over the past few years\, a significant focus of his research has been investigating the social act of going to the cinema. Having built national standing as a leading authority during this time\, in 2022 he secured a grant to research the history of Hoyts Cinemas in Australia\, which will deliver a series of impactful outcomes including a book\, under contract. Steve is Higher Degree Research Director\, DSC\, which is one of three academic colleges at RMIT consisting of eight schools and 750 HDR candidates across a broad range of disciplines and with presence in Vietnam\, Barcelona\, Singapore and China. He leads HDR College activity as it relates to industry partnered projects\, internships and international recruitment strategies. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dr Stephen Gaunson\n \n \n \n More about Research History of Hoyts Cinemas in Australia \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n In the School of Media & Communication\, Steve teaches undergraduate cinema courses on adaptation\, documentary\, national cinema & film history. He can be regularly heard on ABC Melbourne and Radio National as an expert commentator on the national film industry. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Starting at 6pm (bar open at 5.30pm)\, close 7pm. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cost: $12 general admission | $8 BMI members \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2024 Twilight Talks\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Thanks to the support of Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Follow Community Bank Buninyong socials: \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is part of the Ballarat Heritage Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Our Library | New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks – August 2026\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – August 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Message from the Chair | BMI Board of Directors | August 2026\n Events Program Diversity I have heard from many members lately\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 21 HEARTS\, A Theatre 180 Production | Participant Feedback\n 21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/the-dog-logs-18-april/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Ballarat National Theatre,Theatre Production ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/sq-promo-dog-log-222.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Ballarat National Theatre":MAILTO:contact@bnt.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260419T140000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260419T153000 DTSTAMP:20260331T044750Z CREATED:20260224T003924Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T044750Z UID:70863-1776607200-1776612600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:The Dog Logs\, A Ballarat National Theatre Production DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks 2024\, Season 2\, Session 6: History of Hoyts \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$8 – $12 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This special edition of our regular Twilight Talks series will feature speakers discussing the history of cinema in Ballarat\, complimenting our free exhibition. Just a year after the Lumière brothers invented the cinematograph in 1895\, the first screenings were held at the Mechanics’ Institute\, meaning many had their first ever experience of ‘moving pictures’ in our beautiful Minerva Theatre. Since then\, thousands of movies have been screened in the theatre through its many iterations\, including at the Vegas 70 theatre which is being reactivated for this year’s Heritage Week. Come along from 5.30pm to grab a drink and wander through the exhibition in the Williamson Foyer\, the former candy bar of the cinema\, before the talk.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The BMI’s Twilight Talks series has been a forum for sharing fascinating history and radical futures since 2001\, check out our website for upcoming talks.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Not the Last Picture Show: History of Hoyts\, Ballarat \n \n Hoyts is synonymous with cinema in Australia. As Australia’s oldest and largest cinema\, it has entertained generations of audiences from the silent era through to the present age. At the start of the 20th century\, Melbourne dentist and cornet player Arthur Russell bought a share in a small touring American circus that visited Melbourne\, called Hoyts Circus. Russell toured with the circus as a magician\, but it did not prove to be a financial success. In 1908\, he started presenting moving pictures at St George’s Hall in Bourke Street\, accompanying the silent films with his small family band: his wife on piano\, son on drums\, and Russell on cornet. On 18 September 1909 he opened Hoyts Picture Palace\, and formed a company called Hoyts Pictures Pty Ltd. The old hall was rebuilt and renamed “Hoyts De Luxe”. By the end of World War I\, Hoyts had expanded into the suburbs of Melbourne and into Sydney. The shows included vaudeville acts\, as was common practice in those days. \n \n While countless stories have been shown on Hoyts’ screens\, the story of the Hoyts along with its unique connection with Australian audiences has largely been overlooked. A project is underway that aims to gain an insight into the unique history Hoyts by conducting oral history interviews with Hoyts cinema patrons as well as those who worked there.  We hope that you will participate in this exciting project by sharing your stories\, experiences\, and memories with us through the ‘Share a Story’ page. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Dr Stephen Gaunson \n \n \n \n \n \n Stephen Gaunson is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Media and Communication at RMIT University. He researches cinema histories including the experience of going to the cinema as a social act. Dr Gaunson’s books include The Ned Kelly Films and American–Australian Cinema: Transnational Connections. Steve researches on national and international cinema industries. Over the past few years\, a significant focus of his research has been investigating the social act of going to the cinema. Having built national standing as a leading authority during this time\, in 2022 he secured a grant to research the history of Hoyts Cinemas in Australia\, which will deliver a series of impactful outcomes including a book\, under contract. Steve is Higher Degree Research Director\, DSC\, which is one of three academic colleges at RMIT consisting of eight schools and 750 HDR candidates across a broad range of disciplines and with presence in Vietnam\, Barcelona\, Singapore and China. He leads HDR College activity as it relates to industry partnered projects\, internships and international recruitment strategies. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dr Stephen Gaunson\n \n \n \n More about Research History of Hoyts Cinemas in Australia \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n In the School of Media & Communication\, Steve teaches undergraduate cinema courses on adaptation\, documentary\, national cinema & film history. He can be regularly heard on ABC Melbourne and Radio National as an expert commentator on the national film industry. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Starting at 6pm (bar open at 5.30pm)\, close 7pm. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cost: $12 general admission | $8 BMI members \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2024 Twilight Talks\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Thanks to the support of Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Follow Community Bank Buninyong socials: \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is part of the Ballarat Heritage Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Our Library | New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks – August 2026\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – August 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Message from the Chair | BMI Board of Directors | August 2026\n Events Program Diversity I have heard from many members lately\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 21 HEARTS\, A Theatre 180 Production | Participant Feedback\n 21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/the-dog-logs-19-april/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Ballarat National Theatre,Theatre Production ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/sq-promo-dog-log-222.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Ballarat National Theatre":MAILTO:contact@bnt.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260421T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260421T193000 DTSTAMP:20260331T044657Z CREATED:20260225T002934Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T044657Z UID:70896-1776794400-1776799800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with Fiona Lowe DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks 2024\, Season 2\, Session 6: History of Hoyts \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$8 – $12 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This special edition of our regular Twilight Talks series will feature speakers discussing the history of cinema in Ballarat\, complimenting our free exhibition. Just a year after the Lumière brothers invented the cinematograph in 1895\, the first screenings were held at the Mechanics’ Institute\, meaning many had their first ever experience of ‘moving pictures’ in our beautiful Minerva Theatre. Since then\, thousands of movies have been screened in the theatre through its many iterations\, including at the Vegas 70 theatre which is being reactivated for this year’s Heritage Week. Come along from 5.30pm to grab a drink and wander through the exhibition in the Williamson Foyer\, the former candy bar of the cinema\, before the talk.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The BMI’s Twilight Talks series has been a forum for sharing fascinating history and radical futures since 2001\, check out our website for upcoming talks.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Not the Last Picture Show: History of Hoyts\, Ballarat \n \n Hoyts is synonymous with cinema in Australia. As Australia’s oldest and largest cinema\, it has entertained generations of audiences from the silent era through to the present age. At the start of the 20th century\, Melbourne dentist and cornet player Arthur Russell bought a share in a small touring American circus that visited Melbourne\, called Hoyts Circus. Russell toured with the circus as a magician\, but it did not prove to be a financial success. In 1908\, he started presenting moving pictures at St George’s Hall in Bourke Street\, accompanying the silent films with his small family band: his wife on piano\, son on drums\, and Russell on cornet. On 18 September 1909 he opened Hoyts Picture Palace\, and formed a company called Hoyts Pictures Pty Ltd. The old hall was rebuilt and renamed “Hoyts De Luxe”. By the end of World War I\, Hoyts had expanded into the suburbs of Melbourne and into Sydney. The shows included vaudeville acts\, as was common practice in those days. \n \n While countless stories have been shown on Hoyts’ screens\, the story of the Hoyts along with its unique connection with Australian audiences has largely been overlooked. A project is underway that aims to gain an insight into the unique history Hoyts by conducting oral history interviews with Hoyts cinema patrons as well as those who worked there.  We hope that you will participate in this exciting project by sharing your stories\, experiences\, and memories with us through the ‘Share a Story’ page. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Dr Stephen Gaunson \n \n \n \n \n \n Stephen Gaunson is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Media and Communication at RMIT University. He researches cinema histories including the experience of going to the cinema as a social act. Dr Gaunson’s books include The Ned Kelly Films and American–Australian Cinema: Transnational Connections. Steve researches on national and international cinema industries. Over the past few years\, a significant focus of his research has been investigating the social act of going to the cinema. Having built national standing as a leading authority during this time\, in 2022 he secured a grant to research the history of Hoyts Cinemas in Australia\, which will deliver a series of impactful outcomes including a book\, under contract. Steve is Higher Degree Research Director\, DSC\, which is one of three academic colleges at RMIT consisting of eight schools and 750 HDR candidates across a broad range of disciplines and with presence in Vietnam\, Barcelona\, Singapore and China. He leads HDR College activity as it relates to industry partnered projects\, internships and international recruitment strategies. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dr Stephen Gaunson\n \n \n \n More about Research History of Hoyts Cinemas in Australia \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n In the School of Media & Communication\, Steve teaches undergraduate cinema courses on adaptation\, documentary\, national cinema & film history. He can be regularly heard on ABC Melbourne and Radio National as an expert commentator on the national film industry. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Starting at 6pm (bar open at 5.30pm)\, close 7pm. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cost: $12 general admission | $8 BMI members \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2024 Twilight Talks\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Thanks to the support of Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Follow Community Bank Buninyong socials: \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is part of the Ballarat Heritage Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Our Library | New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks – August 2026\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – August 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Message from the Chair | BMI Board of Directors | August 2026\n Events Program Diversity I have heard from many members lately\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 21 HEARTS\, A Theatre 180 Production | Participant Feedback\n 21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/fiona-lowe/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/sp-promo-talks-fiona-lowe.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260422T140000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260422T160000 DTSTAMP:20260413T062449Z CREATED:20260413T033307Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260413T062449Z UID:72085-1776866400-1776873600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:SHARC Roadshow 2026 DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks 2024\, Season 2\, Session 6: History of Hoyts \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$8 – $12 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This special edition of our regular Twilight Talks series will feature speakers discussing the history of cinema in Ballarat\, complimenting our free exhibition. Just a year after the Lumière brothers invented the cinematograph in 1895\, the first screenings were held at the Mechanics’ Institute\, meaning many had their first ever experience of ‘moving pictures’ in our beautiful Minerva Theatre. Since then\, thousands of movies have been screened in the theatre through its many iterations\, including at the Vegas 70 theatre which is being reactivated for this year’s Heritage Week. Come along from 5.30pm to grab a drink and wander through the exhibition in the Williamson Foyer\, the former candy bar of the cinema\, before the talk.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The BMI’s Twilight Talks series has been a forum for sharing fascinating history and radical futures since 2001\, check out our website for upcoming talks.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Not the Last Picture Show: History of Hoyts\, Ballarat \n \n Hoyts is synonymous with cinema in Australia. As Australia’s oldest and largest cinema\, it has entertained generations of audiences from the silent era through to the present age. At the start of the 20th century\, Melbourne dentist and cornet player Arthur Russell bought a share in a small touring American circus that visited Melbourne\, called Hoyts Circus. Russell toured with the circus as a magician\, but it did not prove to be a financial success. In 1908\, he started presenting moving pictures at St George’s Hall in Bourke Street\, accompanying the silent films with his small family band: his wife on piano\, son on drums\, and Russell on cornet. On 18 September 1909 he opened Hoyts Picture Palace\, and formed a company called Hoyts Pictures Pty Ltd. The old hall was rebuilt and renamed “Hoyts De Luxe”. By the end of World War I\, Hoyts had expanded into the suburbs of Melbourne and into Sydney. The shows included vaudeville acts\, as was common practice in those days. \n \n While countless stories have been shown on Hoyts’ screens\, the story of the Hoyts along with its unique connection with Australian audiences has largely been overlooked. A project is underway that aims to gain an insight into the unique history Hoyts by conducting oral history interviews with Hoyts cinema patrons as well as those who worked there.  We hope that you will participate in this exciting project by sharing your stories\, experiences\, and memories with us through the ‘Share a Story’ page. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Dr Stephen Gaunson \n \n \n \n \n \n Stephen Gaunson is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Media and Communication at RMIT University. He researches cinema histories including the experience of going to the cinema as a social act. Dr Gaunson’s books include The Ned Kelly Films and American–Australian Cinema: Transnational Connections. Steve researches on national and international cinema industries. Over the past few years\, a significant focus of his research has been investigating the social act of going to the cinema. Having built national standing as a leading authority during this time\, in 2022 he secured a grant to research the history of Hoyts Cinemas in Australia\, which will deliver a series of impactful outcomes including a book\, under contract. Steve is Higher Degree Research Director\, DSC\, which is one of three academic colleges at RMIT consisting of eight schools and 750 HDR candidates across a broad range of disciplines and with presence in Vietnam\, Barcelona\, Singapore and China. He leads HDR College activity as it relates to industry partnered projects\, internships and international recruitment strategies. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dr Stephen Gaunson\n \n \n \n More about Research History of Hoyts Cinemas in Australia \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n In the School of Media & Communication\, Steve teaches undergraduate cinema courses on adaptation\, documentary\, national cinema & film history. He can be regularly heard on ABC Melbourne and Radio National as an expert commentator on the national film industry. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Starting at 6pm (bar open at 5.30pm)\, close 7pm. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cost: $12 general admission | $8 BMI members \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2024 Twilight Talks\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Thanks to the support of Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Follow Community Bank Buninyong socials: \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is part of the Ballarat Heritage Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Our Library | New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks – August 2026\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – August 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Message from the Chair | BMI Board of Directors | August 2026\n Events Program Diversity I have heard from many members lately\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 21 HEARTS\, A Theatre 180 Production | Participant Feedback\n 21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/sharc-roadshow-2026/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:SHARC ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/sq-promo-events-sharc.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260422T173000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260422T183000 DTSTAMP:20260415T032833Z CREATED:20260316T055851Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260415T032833Z UID:71323-1776879000-1776882600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat - Ballarat Avenue of Honour DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks 2024\, Season 2\, Session 6: History of Hoyts \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$8 – $12 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This special edition of our regular Twilight Talks series will feature speakers discussing the history of cinema in Ballarat\, complimenting our free exhibition. Just a year after the Lumière brothers invented the cinematograph in 1895\, the first screenings were held at the Mechanics’ Institute\, meaning many had their first ever experience of ‘moving pictures’ in our beautiful Minerva Theatre. Since then\, thousands of movies have been screened in the theatre through its many iterations\, including at the Vegas 70 theatre which is being reactivated for this year’s Heritage Week. Come along from 5.30pm to grab a drink and wander through the exhibition in the Williamson Foyer\, the former candy bar of the cinema\, before the talk.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The BMI’s Twilight Talks series has been a forum for sharing fascinating history and radical futures since 2001\, check out our website for upcoming talks.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Not the Last Picture Show: History of Hoyts\, Ballarat \n \n Hoyts is synonymous with cinema in Australia. As Australia’s oldest and largest cinema\, it has entertained generations of audiences from the silent era through to the present age. At the start of the 20th century\, Melbourne dentist and cornet player Arthur Russell bought a share in a small touring American circus that visited Melbourne\, called Hoyts Circus. Russell toured with the circus as a magician\, but it did not prove to be a financial success. In 1908\, he started presenting moving pictures at St George’s Hall in Bourke Street\, accompanying the silent films with his small family band: his wife on piano\, son on drums\, and Russell on cornet. On 18 September 1909 he opened Hoyts Picture Palace\, and formed a company called Hoyts Pictures Pty Ltd. The old hall was rebuilt and renamed “Hoyts De Luxe”. By the end of World War I\, Hoyts had expanded into the suburbs of Melbourne and into Sydney. The shows included vaudeville acts\, as was common practice in those days. \n \n While countless stories have been shown on Hoyts’ screens\, the story of the Hoyts along with its unique connection with Australian audiences has largely been overlooked. A project is underway that aims to gain an insight into the unique history Hoyts by conducting oral history interviews with Hoyts cinema patrons as well as those who worked there.  We hope that you will participate in this exciting project by sharing your stories\, experiences\, and memories with us through the ‘Share a Story’ page. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Dr Stephen Gaunson \n \n \n \n \n \n Stephen Gaunson is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Media and Communication at RMIT University. He researches cinema histories including the experience of going to the cinema as a social act. Dr Gaunson’s books include The Ned Kelly Films and American–Australian Cinema: Transnational Connections. Steve researches on national and international cinema industries. Over the past few years\, a significant focus of his research has been investigating the social act of going to the cinema. Having built national standing as a leading authority during this time\, in 2022 he secured a grant to research the history of Hoyts Cinemas in Australia\, which will deliver a series of impactful outcomes including a book\, under contract. Steve is Higher Degree Research Director\, DSC\, which is one of three academic colleges at RMIT consisting of eight schools and 750 HDR candidates across a broad range of disciplines and with presence in Vietnam\, Barcelona\, Singapore and China. He leads HDR College activity as it relates to industry partnered projects\, internships and international recruitment strategies. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dr Stephen Gaunson\n \n \n \n More about Research History of Hoyts Cinemas in Australia \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n In the School of Media & Communication\, Steve teaches undergraduate cinema courses on adaptation\, documentary\, national cinema & film history. He can be regularly heard on ABC Melbourne and Radio National as an expert commentator on the national film industry. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Starting at 6pm (bar open at 5.30pm)\, close 7pm. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cost: $12 general admission | $8 BMI members \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2024 Twilight Talks\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Thanks to the support of Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Follow Community Bank Buninyong socials: \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is part of the Ballarat Heritage Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Our Library | New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks – August 2026\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – August 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Message from the Chair | BMI Board of Directors | August 2026\n Events Program Diversity I have heard from many members lately\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 21 HEARTS\, A Theatre 180 Production | Participant Feedback\n 21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/twilight-talks-focus-on-ballarat-ballarat-avenue-of-honour/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Australian Heritage Festival,Twilight Talks ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/square-promo-2025-ballarat-avenue-of-honour.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260422T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260422T200000 DTSTAMP:20260331T044616Z CREATED:20260302T012427Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T044616Z UID:71025-1776884400-1776888000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Kadampa Meditation Series | Love Changes Everything: How to Transform Yourself & the World Around You DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks 2024\, Season 2\, Session 6: History of Hoyts \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$8 – $12 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This special edition of our regular Twilight Talks series will feature speakers discussing the history of cinema in Ballarat\, complimenting our free exhibition. Just a year after the Lumière brothers invented the cinematograph in 1895\, the first screenings were held at the Mechanics’ Institute\, meaning many had their first ever experience of ‘moving pictures’ in our beautiful Minerva Theatre. Since then\, thousands of movies have been screened in the theatre through its many iterations\, including at the Vegas 70 theatre which is being reactivated for this year’s Heritage Week. Come along from 5.30pm to grab a drink and wander through the exhibition in the Williamson Foyer\, the former candy bar of the cinema\, before the talk.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The BMI’s Twilight Talks series has been a forum for sharing fascinating history and radical futures since 2001\, check out our website for upcoming talks.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Not the Last Picture Show: History of Hoyts\, Ballarat \n \n Hoyts is synonymous with cinema in Australia. As Australia’s oldest and largest cinema\, it has entertained generations of audiences from the silent era through to the present age. At the start of the 20th century\, Melbourne dentist and cornet player Arthur Russell bought a share in a small touring American circus that visited Melbourne\, called Hoyts Circus. Russell toured with the circus as a magician\, but it did not prove to be a financial success. In 1908\, he started presenting moving pictures at St George’s Hall in Bourke Street\, accompanying the silent films with his small family band: his wife on piano\, son on drums\, and Russell on cornet. On 18 September 1909 he opened Hoyts Picture Palace\, and formed a company called Hoyts Pictures Pty Ltd. The old hall was rebuilt and renamed “Hoyts De Luxe”. By the end of World War I\, Hoyts had expanded into the suburbs of Melbourne and into Sydney. The shows included vaudeville acts\, as was common practice in those days. \n \n While countless stories have been shown on Hoyts’ screens\, the story of the Hoyts along with its unique connection with Australian audiences has largely been overlooked. A project is underway that aims to gain an insight into the unique history Hoyts by conducting oral history interviews with Hoyts cinema patrons as well as those who worked there.  We hope that you will participate in this exciting project by sharing your stories\, experiences\, and memories with us through the ‘Share a Story’ page. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Dr Stephen Gaunson \n \n \n \n \n \n Stephen Gaunson is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Media and Communication at RMIT University. He researches cinema histories including the experience of going to the cinema as a social act. Dr Gaunson’s books include The Ned Kelly Films and American–Australian Cinema: Transnational Connections. Steve researches on national and international cinema industries. Over the past few years\, a significant focus of his research has been investigating the social act of going to the cinema. Having built national standing as a leading authority during this time\, in 2022 he secured a grant to research the history of Hoyts Cinemas in Australia\, which will deliver a series of impactful outcomes including a book\, under contract. Steve is Higher Degree Research Director\, DSC\, which is one of three academic colleges at RMIT consisting of eight schools and 750 HDR candidates across a broad range of disciplines and with presence in Vietnam\, Barcelona\, Singapore and China. He leads HDR College activity as it relates to industry partnered projects\, internships and international recruitment strategies. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dr Stephen Gaunson\n \n \n \n More about Research History of Hoyts Cinemas in Australia \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n In the School of Media & Communication\, Steve teaches undergraduate cinema courses on adaptation\, documentary\, national cinema & film history. He can be regularly heard on ABC Melbourne and Radio National as an expert commentator on the national film industry. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Starting at 6pm (bar open at 5.30pm)\, close 7pm. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cost: $12 general admission | $8 BMI members \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2024 Twilight Talks\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Thanks to the support of Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Follow Community Bank Buninyong socials: \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is part of the Ballarat Heritage Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Our Library | New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks – August 2026\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – August 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Message from the Chair | BMI Board of Directors | August 2026\n Events Program Diversity I have heard from many members lately\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 21 HEARTS\, A Theatre 180 Production | Participant Feedback\n 21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/kadampa-meditation-series-22-apr/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:kadampa ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/3-Love-Changes-BMI-Square.png ORGANIZER;CN="Kadampa Meditation":MAILTO:info@kadampa.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260423T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260423T210000 DTSTAMP:20260331T044530Z CREATED:20260129T035010Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T044530Z UID:70398-1776972600-1776978000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Ballarat Film Society | Only The Animals DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks 2024\, Season 2\, Session 6: History of Hoyts \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$8 – $12 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This special edition of our regular Twilight Talks series will feature speakers discussing the history of cinema in Ballarat\, complimenting our free exhibition. Just a year after the Lumière brothers invented the cinematograph in 1895\, the first screenings were held at the Mechanics’ Institute\, meaning many had their first ever experience of ‘moving pictures’ in our beautiful Minerva Theatre. Since then\, thousands of movies have been screened in the theatre through its many iterations\, including at the Vegas 70 theatre which is being reactivated for this year’s Heritage Week. Come along from 5.30pm to grab a drink and wander through the exhibition in the Williamson Foyer\, the former candy bar of the cinema\, before the talk.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The BMI’s Twilight Talks series has been a forum for sharing fascinating history and radical futures since 2001\, check out our website for upcoming talks.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Not the Last Picture Show: History of Hoyts\, Ballarat \n \n Hoyts is synonymous with cinema in Australia. As Australia’s oldest and largest cinema\, it has entertained generations of audiences from the silent era through to the present age. At the start of the 20th century\, Melbourne dentist and cornet player Arthur Russell bought a share in a small touring American circus that visited Melbourne\, called Hoyts Circus. Russell toured with the circus as a magician\, but it did not prove to be a financial success. In 1908\, he started presenting moving pictures at St George’s Hall in Bourke Street\, accompanying the silent films with his small family band: his wife on piano\, son on drums\, and Russell on cornet. On 18 September 1909 he opened Hoyts Picture Palace\, and formed a company called Hoyts Pictures Pty Ltd. The old hall was rebuilt and renamed “Hoyts De Luxe”. By the end of World War I\, Hoyts had expanded into the suburbs of Melbourne and into Sydney. The shows included vaudeville acts\, as was common practice in those days. \n \n While countless stories have been shown on Hoyts’ screens\, the story of the Hoyts along with its unique connection with Australian audiences has largely been overlooked. A project is underway that aims to gain an insight into the unique history Hoyts by conducting oral history interviews with Hoyts cinema patrons as well as those who worked there.  We hope that you will participate in this exciting project by sharing your stories\, experiences\, and memories with us through the ‘Share a Story’ page. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Dr Stephen Gaunson \n \n \n \n \n \n Stephen Gaunson is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Media and Communication at RMIT University. He researches cinema histories including the experience of going to the cinema as a social act. Dr Gaunson’s books include The Ned Kelly Films and American–Australian Cinema: Transnational Connections. Steve researches on national and international cinema industries. Over the past few years\, a significant focus of his research has been investigating the social act of going to the cinema. Having built national standing as a leading authority during this time\, in 2022 he secured a grant to research the history of Hoyts Cinemas in Australia\, which will deliver a series of impactful outcomes including a book\, under contract. Steve is Higher Degree Research Director\, DSC\, which is one of three academic colleges at RMIT consisting of eight schools and 750 HDR candidates across a broad range of disciplines and with presence in Vietnam\, Barcelona\, Singapore and China. He leads HDR College activity as it relates to industry partnered projects\, internships and international recruitment strategies. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dr Stephen Gaunson\n \n \n \n More about Research History of Hoyts Cinemas in Australia \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n In the School of Media & Communication\, Steve teaches undergraduate cinema courses on adaptation\, documentary\, national cinema & film history. He can be regularly heard on ABC Melbourne and Radio National as an expert commentator on the national film industry. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Starting at 6pm (bar open at 5.30pm)\, close 7pm. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cost: $12 general admission | $8 BMI members \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2024 Twilight Talks\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Thanks to the support of Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Follow Community Bank Buninyong socials: \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is part of the Ballarat Heritage Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Our Library | New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks – August 2026\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – August 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Message from the Chair | BMI Board of Directors | August 2026\n Events Program Diversity I have heard from many members lately\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 21 HEARTS\, A Theatre 180 Production | Participant Feedback\n 21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/ballarat-film-society-only-the-animals/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Ballarat Film Society,Film ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/only-the-animals-sq-promo-v4.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260424T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260424T200000 DTSTAMP:20260331T044311Z CREATED:20260310T000249Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T044311Z UID:71128-1777057200-1777060800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Minerva's Secrets | Night Tour DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks 2024\, Season 2\, Session 6: History of Hoyts \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$8 – $12 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This special edition of our regular Twilight Talks series will feature speakers discussing the history of cinema in Ballarat\, complimenting our free exhibition. Just a year after the Lumière brothers invented the cinematograph in 1895\, the first screenings were held at the Mechanics’ Institute\, meaning many had their first ever experience of ‘moving pictures’ in our beautiful Minerva Theatre. Since then\, thousands of movies have been screened in the theatre through its many iterations\, including at the Vegas 70 theatre which is being reactivated for this year’s Heritage Week. Come along from 5.30pm to grab a drink and wander through the exhibition in the Williamson Foyer\, the former candy bar of the cinema\, before the talk.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The BMI’s Twilight Talks series has been a forum for sharing fascinating history and radical futures since 2001\, check out our website for upcoming talks.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Not the Last Picture Show: History of Hoyts\, Ballarat \n \n Hoyts is synonymous with cinema in Australia. As Australia’s oldest and largest cinema\, it has entertained generations of audiences from the silent era through to the present age. At the start of the 20th century\, Melbourne dentist and cornet player Arthur Russell bought a share in a small touring American circus that visited Melbourne\, called Hoyts Circus. Russell toured with the circus as a magician\, but it did not prove to be a financial success. In 1908\, he started presenting moving pictures at St George’s Hall in Bourke Street\, accompanying the silent films with his small family band: his wife on piano\, son on drums\, and Russell on cornet. On 18 September 1909 he opened Hoyts Picture Palace\, and formed a company called Hoyts Pictures Pty Ltd. The old hall was rebuilt and renamed “Hoyts De Luxe”. By the end of World War I\, Hoyts had expanded into the suburbs of Melbourne and into Sydney. The shows included vaudeville acts\, as was common practice in those days. \n \n While countless stories have been shown on Hoyts’ screens\, the story of the Hoyts along with its unique connection with Australian audiences has largely been overlooked. A project is underway that aims to gain an insight into the unique history Hoyts by conducting oral history interviews with Hoyts cinema patrons as well as those who worked there.  We hope that you will participate in this exciting project by sharing your stories\, experiences\, and memories with us through the ‘Share a Story’ page. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Dr Stephen Gaunson \n \n \n \n \n \n Stephen Gaunson is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Media and Communication at RMIT University. He researches cinema histories including the experience of going to the cinema as a social act. Dr Gaunson’s books include The Ned Kelly Films and American–Australian Cinema: Transnational Connections. Steve researches on national and international cinema industries. Over the past few years\, a significant focus of his research has been investigating the social act of going to the cinema. Having built national standing as a leading authority during this time\, in 2022 he secured a grant to research the history of Hoyts Cinemas in Australia\, which will deliver a series of impactful outcomes including a book\, under contract. Steve is Higher Degree Research Director\, DSC\, which is one of three academic colleges at RMIT consisting of eight schools and 750 HDR candidates across a broad range of disciplines and with presence in Vietnam\, Barcelona\, Singapore and China. He leads HDR College activity as it relates to industry partnered projects\, internships and international recruitment strategies. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dr Stephen Gaunson\n \n \n \n More about Research History of Hoyts Cinemas in Australia \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n In the School of Media & Communication\, Steve teaches undergraduate cinema courses on adaptation\, documentary\, national cinema & film history. He can be regularly heard on ABC Melbourne and Radio National as an expert commentator on the national film industry. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Starting at 6pm (bar open at 5.30pm)\, close 7pm. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cost: $12 general admission | $8 BMI members \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2024 Twilight Talks\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Thanks to the support of Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Follow Community Bank Buninyong socials: \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is part of the Ballarat Heritage Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Our Library | New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks – August 2026\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – August 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Message from the Chair | BMI Board of Directors | August 2026\n Events Program Diversity I have heard from many members lately\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 21 HEARTS\, A Theatre 180 Production | Participant Feedback\n 21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/minervas-secrets-night-tour-24-apr-26/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Australian Heritage Festival,Important Dates,Night Tours,Tours ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/received_908662326866361-e1708918930337.jpeg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260424T210000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260424T220000 DTSTAMP:20260331T044330Z CREATED:20250923T052206Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T044330Z UID:67565-1777064400-1777068000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Minerva's Secrets | Night Tour DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks 2024\, Season 2\, Session 6: History of Hoyts \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$8 – $12 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This special edition of our regular Twilight Talks series will feature speakers discussing the history of cinema in Ballarat\, complimenting our free exhibition. Just a year after the Lumière brothers invented the cinematograph in 1895\, the first screenings were held at the Mechanics’ Institute\, meaning many had their first ever experience of ‘moving pictures’ in our beautiful Minerva Theatre. Since then\, thousands of movies have been screened in the theatre through its many iterations\, including at the Vegas 70 theatre which is being reactivated for this year’s Heritage Week. Come along from 5.30pm to grab a drink and wander through the exhibition in the Williamson Foyer\, the former candy bar of the cinema\, before the talk.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The BMI’s Twilight Talks series has been a forum for sharing fascinating history and radical futures since 2001\, check out our website for upcoming talks.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Not the Last Picture Show: History of Hoyts\, Ballarat \n \n Hoyts is synonymous with cinema in Australia. As Australia’s oldest and largest cinema\, it has entertained generations of audiences from the silent era through to the present age. At the start of the 20th century\, Melbourne dentist and cornet player Arthur Russell bought a share in a small touring American circus that visited Melbourne\, called Hoyts Circus. Russell toured with the circus as a magician\, but it did not prove to be a financial success. In 1908\, he started presenting moving pictures at St George’s Hall in Bourke Street\, accompanying the silent films with his small family band: his wife on piano\, son on drums\, and Russell on cornet. On 18 September 1909 he opened Hoyts Picture Palace\, and formed a company called Hoyts Pictures Pty Ltd. The old hall was rebuilt and renamed “Hoyts De Luxe”. By the end of World War I\, Hoyts had expanded into the suburbs of Melbourne and into Sydney. The shows included vaudeville acts\, as was common practice in those days. \n \n While countless stories have been shown on Hoyts’ screens\, the story of the Hoyts along with its unique connection with Australian audiences has largely been overlooked. A project is underway that aims to gain an insight into the unique history Hoyts by conducting oral history interviews with Hoyts cinema patrons as well as those who worked there.  We hope that you will participate in this exciting project by sharing your stories\, experiences\, and memories with us through the ‘Share a Story’ page. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Dr Stephen Gaunson \n \n \n \n \n \n Stephen Gaunson is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Media and Communication at RMIT University. He researches cinema histories including the experience of going to the cinema as a social act. Dr Gaunson’s books include The Ned Kelly Films and American–Australian Cinema: Transnational Connections. Steve researches on national and international cinema industries. Over the past few years\, a significant focus of his research has been investigating the social act of going to the cinema. Having built national standing as a leading authority during this time\, in 2022 he secured a grant to research the history of Hoyts Cinemas in Australia\, which will deliver a series of impactful outcomes including a book\, under contract. Steve is Higher Degree Research Director\, DSC\, which is one of three academic colleges at RMIT consisting of eight schools and 750 HDR candidates across a broad range of disciplines and with presence in Vietnam\, Barcelona\, Singapore and China. He leads HDR College activity as it relates to industry partnered projects\, internships and international recruitment strategies. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dr Stephen Gaunson\n \n \n \n More about Research History of Hoyts Cinemas in Australia \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n In the School of Media & Communication\, Steve teaches undergraduate cinema courses on adaptation\, documentary\, national cinema & film history. He can be regularly heard on ABC Melbourne and Radio National as an expert commentator on the national film industry. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Starting at 6pm (bar open at 5.30pm)\, close 7pm. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cost: $12 general admission | $8 BMI members \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2024 Twilight Talks\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Thanks to the support of Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Follow Community Bank Buninyong socials: \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is part of the Ballarat Heritage Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Our Library | New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks – August 2026\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – August 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Message from the Chair | BMI Board of Directors | August 2026\n Events Program Diversity I have heard from many members lately\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 21 HEARTS\, A Theatre 180 Production | Participant Feedback\n 21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/minervas-secrets-night-tours-24-apr-26-2/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Australian Heritage Festival,Important Dates,Night Tours,Tours ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/received_265285705882698-e1708919200874.jpeg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260429T173000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260429T183000 DTSTAMP:20260331T044107Z CREATED:20260313T041015Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T044107Z UID:71275-1777483800-1777487400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat - Nostalgic memories of Stawell & Ballarat - 1950s and 1960s DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks 2024\, Season 2\, Session 6: History of Hoyts \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$8 – $12 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This special edition of our regular Twilight Talks series will feature speakers discussing the history of cinema in Ballarat\, complimenting our free exhibition. Just a year after the Lumière brothers invented the cinematograph in 1895\, the first screenings were held at the Mechanics’ Institute\, meaning many had their first ever experience of ‘moving pictures’ in our beautiful Minerva Theatre. Since then\, thousands of movies have been screened in the theatre through its many iterations\, including at the Vegas 70 theatre which is being reactivated for this year’s Heritage Week. Come along from 5.30pm to grab a drink and wander through the exhibition in the Williamson Foyer\, the former candy bar of the cinema\, before the talk.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The BMI’s Twilight Talks series has been a forum for sharing fascinating history and radical futures since 2001\, check out our website for upcoming talks.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Not the Last Picture Show: History of Hoyts\, Ballarat \n \n Hoyts is synonymous with cinema in Australia. As Australia’s oldest and largest cinema\, it has entertained generations of audiences from the silent era through to the present age. At the start of the 20th century\, Melbourne dentist and cornet player Arthur Russell bought a share in a small touring American circus that visited Melbourne\, called Hoyts Circus. Russell toured with the circus as a magician\, but it did not prove to be a financial success. In 1908\, he started presenting moving pictures at St George’s Hall in Bourke Street\, accompanying the silent films with his small family band: his wife on piano\, son on drums\, and Russell on cornet. On 18 September 1909 he opened Hoyts Picture Palace\, and formed a company called Hoyts Pictures Pty Ltd. The old hall was rebuilt and renamed “Hoyts De Luxe”. By the end of World War I\, Hoyts had expanded into the suburbs of Melbourne and into Sydney. The shows included vaudeville acts\, as was common practice in those days. \n \n While countless stories have been shown on Hoyts’ screens\, the story of the Hoyts along with its unique connection with Australian audiences has largely been overlooked. A project is underway that aims to gain an insight into the unique history Hoyts by conducting oral history interviews with Hoyts cinema patrons as well as those who worked there.  We hope that you will participate in this exciting project by sharing your stories\, experiences\, and memories with us through the ‘Share a Story’ page. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Dr Stephen Gaunson \n \n \n \n \n \n Stephen Gaunson is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Media and Communication at RMIT University. He researches cinema histories including the experience of going to the cinema as a social act. Dr Gaunson’s books include The Ned Kelly Films and American–Australian Cinema: Transnational Connections. Steve researches on national and international cinema industries. Over the past few years\, a significant focus of his research has been investigating the social act of going to the cinema. Having built national standing as a leading authority during this time\, in 2022 he secured a grant to research the history of Hoyts Cinemas in Australia\, which will deliver a series of impactful outcomes including a book\, under contract. Steve is Higher Degree Research Director\, DSC\, which is one of three academic colleges at RMIT consisting of eight schools and 750 HDR candidates across a broad range of disciplines and with presence in Vietnam\, Barcelona\, Singapore and China. He leads HDR College activity as it relates to industry partnered projects\, internships and international recruitment strategies. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dr Stephen Gaunson\n \n \n \n More about Research History of Hoyts Cinemas in Australia \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n In the School of Media & Communication\, Steve teaches undergraduate cinema courses on adaptation\, documentary\, national cinema & film history. He can be regularly heard on ABC Melbourne and Radio National as an expert commentator on the national film industry. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Starting at 6pm (bar open at 5.30pm)\, close 7pm. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cost: $12 general admission | $8 BMI members \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2024 Twilight Talks\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Thanks to the support of Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Follow Community Bank Buninyong socials: \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is part of the Ballarat Heritage Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Our Library | New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks – August 2026\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – August 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Message from the Chair | BMI Board of Directors | August 2026\n Events Program Diversity I have heard from many members lately\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 21 HEARTS\, A Theatre 180 Production | Participant Feedback\n 21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/twilight-talks-focus-on-ballarat-3/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Australian Heritage Festival,Author Talk,Twilight Talks ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/square-promo-2025-nostalgia-final-v2.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260429T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260429T200000 DTSTAMP:20260331T043901Z CREATED:20260302T012824Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T043901Z UID:71027-1777489200-1777492800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Kadampa Meditation Series | Love Changes Everything: How to Transform Yourself & the World Around You DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks 2024\, Season 2\, Session 6: History of Hoyts \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$8 – $12 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This special edition of our regular Twilight Talks series will feature speakers discussing the history of cinema in Ballarat\, complimenting our free exhibition. Just a year after the Lumière brothers invented the cinematograph in 1895\, the first screenings were held at the Mechanics’ Institute\, meaning many had their first ever experience of ‘moving pictures’ in our beautiful Minerva Theatre. Since then\, thousands of movies have been screened in the theatre through its many iterations\, including at the Vegas 70 theatre which is being reactivated for this year’s Heritage Week. Come along from 5.30pm to grab a drink and wander through the exhibition in the Williamson Foyer\, the former candy bar of the cinema\, before the talk.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The BMI’s Twilight Talks series has been a forum for sharing fascinating history and radical futures since 2001\, check out our website for upcoming talks.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Not the Last Picture Show: History of Hoyts\, Ballarat \n \n Hoyts is synonymous with cinema in Australia. As Australia’s oldest and largest cinema\, it has entertained generations of audiences from the silent era through to the present age. At the start of the 20th century\, Melbourne dentist and cornet player Arthur Russell bought a share in a small touring American circus that visited Melbourne\, called Hoyts Circus. Russell toured with the circus as a magician\, but it did not prove to be a financial success. In 1908\, he started presenting moving pictures at St George’s Hall in Bourke Street\, accompanying the silent films with his small family band: his wife on piano\, son on drums\, and Russell on cornet. On 18 September 1909 he opened Hoyts Picture Palace\, and formed a company called Hoyts Pictures Pty Ltd. The old hall was rebuilt and renamed “Hoyts De Luxe”. By the end of World War I\, Hoyts had expanded into the suburbs of Melbourne and into Sydney. The shows included vaudeville acts\, as was common practice in those days. \n \n While countless stories have been shown on Hoyts’ screens\, the story of the Hoyts along with its unique connection with Australian audiences has largely been overlooked. A project is underway that aims to gain an insight into the unique history Hoyts by conducting oral history interviews with Hoyts cinema patrons as well as those who worked there.  We hope that you will participate in this exciting project by sharing your stories\, experiences\, and memories with us through the ‘Share a Story’ page. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Dr Stephen Gaunson \n \n \n \n \n \n Stephen Gaunson is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Media and Communication at RMIT University. He researches cinema histories including the experience of going to the cinema as a social act. Dr Gaunson’s books include The Ned Kelly Films and American–Australian Cinema: Transnational Connections. Steve researches on national and international cinema industries. Over the past few years\, a significant focus of his research has been investigating the social act of going to the cinema. Having built national standing as a leading authority during this time\, in 2022 he secured a grant to research the history of Hoyts Cinemas in Australia\, which will deliver a series of impactful outcomes including a book\, under contract. Steve is Higher Degree Research Director\, DSC\, which is one of three academic colleges at RMIT consisting of eight schools and 750 HDR candidates across a broad range of disciplines and with presence in Vietnam\, Barcelona\, Singapore and China. He leads HDR College activity as it relates to industry partnered projects\, internships and international recruitment strategies. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dr Stephen Gaunson\n \n \n \n More about Research History of Hoyts Cinemas in Australia \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n In the School of Media & Communication\, Steve teaches undergraduate cinema courses on adaptation\, documentary\, national cinema & film history. He can be regularly heard on ABC Melbourne and Radio National as an expert commentator on the national film industry. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Starting at 6pm (bar open at 5.30pm)\, close 7pm. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cost: $12 general admission | $8 BMI members \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2024 Twilight Talks\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Thanks to the support of Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Follow Community Bank Buninyong socials: \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is part of the Ballarat Heritage Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Our Library | New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks – August 2026\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – August 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Message from the Chair | BMI Board of Directors | August 2026\n Events Program Diversity I have heard from many members lately\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 21 HEARTS\, A Theatre 180 Production | Participant Feedback\n 21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/kadampa-meditation-series-29-apr/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:kadampa ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/3-Love-Changes-BMI-Square.png ORGANIZER;CN="Kadampa Meditation":MAILTO:info@kadampa.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260430T183000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260430T200000 DTSTAMP:20260420T014040Z CREATED:20260303T233837Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260420T014040Z UID:71100-1777573800-1777579200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with Anna Johnston DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks 2024\, Season 2\, Session 6: History of Hoyts \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$8 – $12 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This special edition of our regular Twilight Talks series will feature speakers discussing the history of cinema in Ballarat\, complimenting our free exhibition. Just a year after the Lumière brothers invented the cinematograph in 1895\, the first screenings were held at the Mechanics’ Institute\, meaning many had their first ever experience of ‘moving pictures’ in our beautiful Minerva Theatre. Since then\, thousands of movies have been screened in the theatre through its many iterations\, including at the Vegas 70 theatre which is being reactivated for this year’s Heritage Week. Come along from 5.30pm to grab a drink and wander through the exhibition in the Williamson Foyer\, the former candy bar of the cinema\, before the talk.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The BMI’s Twilight Talks series has been a forum for sharing fascinating history and radical futures since 2001\, check out our website for upcoming talks.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Not the Last Picture Show: History of Hoyts\, Ballarat \n \n Hoyts is synonymous with cinema in Australia. As Australia’s oldest and largest cinema\, it has entertained generations of audiences from the silent era through to the present age. At the start of the 20th century\, Melbourne dentist and cornet player Arthur Russell bought a share in a small touring American circus that visited Melbourne\, called Hoyts Circus. Russell toured with the circus as a magician\, but it did not prove to be a financial success. In 1908\, he started presenting moving pictures at St George’s Hall in Bourke Street\, accompanying the silent films with his small family band: his wife on piano\, son on drums\, and Russell on cornet. On 18 September 1909 he opened Hoyts Picture Palace\, and formed a company called Hoyts Pictures Pty Ltd. The old hall was rebuilt and renamed “Hoyts De Luxe”. By the end of World War I\, Hoyts had expanded into the suburbs of Melbourne and into Sydney. The shows included vaudeville acts\, as was common practice in those days. \n \n While countless stories have been shown on Hoyts’ screens\, the story of the Hoyts along with its unique connection with Australian audiences has largely been overlooked. A project is underway that aims to gain an insight into the unique history Hoyts by conducting oral history interviews with Hoyts cinema patrons as well as those who worked there.  We hope that you will participate in this exciting project by sharing your stories\, experiences\, and memories with us through the ‘Share a Story’ page. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Dr Stephen Gaunson \n \n \n \n \n \n Stephen Gaunson is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Media and Communication at RMIT University. He researches cinema histories including the experience of going to the cinema as a social act. Dr Gaunson’s books include The Ned Kelly Films and American–Australian Cinema: Transnational Connections. Steve researches on national and international cinema industries. Over the past few years\, a significant focus of his research has been investigating the social act of going to the cinema. Having built national standing as a leading authority during this time\, in 2022 he secured a grant to research the history of Hoyts Cinemas in Australia\, which will deliver a series of impactful outcomes including a book\, under contract. Steve is Higher Degree Research Director\, DSC\, which is one of three academic colleges at RMIT consisting of eight schools and 750 HDR candidates across a broad range of disciplines and with presence in Vietnam\, Barcelona\, Singapore and China. He leads HDR College activity as it relates to industry partnered projects\, internships and international recruitment strategies. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dr Stephen Gaunson\n \n \n \n More about Research History of Hoyts Cinemas in Australia \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n In the School of Media & Communication\, Steve teaches undergraduate cinema courses on adaptation\, documentary\, national cinema & film history. He can be regularly heard on ABC Melbourne and Radio National as an expert commentator on the national film industry. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Starting at 6pm (bar open at 5.30pm)\, close 7pm. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cost: $12 general admission | $8 BMI members \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2024 Twilight Talks\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Thanks to the support of Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Follow Community Bank Buninyong socials: \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is part of the Ballarat Heritage Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Our Library | New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks – August 2026\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – August 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Message from the Chair | BMI Board of Directors | August 2026\n Events Program Diversity I have heard from many members lately\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 21 HEARTS\, A Theatre 180 Production | Participant Feedback\n 21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/in-conversation-with-anna-johnston/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/sp-promo-talks-anna-johnston-v3.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260506T173000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260506T183000 DTSTAMP:20260331T043353Z CREATED:20260323T001805Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T043353Z UID:71453-1778088600-1778092200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat - What We Watched Before Cinema: ‘Entertainments’ at the Mechanics’ Hall\, 1863–1919 DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks 2024\, Season 2\, Session 6: History of Hoyts \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$8 – $12 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This special edition of our regular Twilight Talks series will feature speakers discussing the history of cinema in Ballarat\, complimenting our free exhibition. Just a year after the Lumière brothers invented the cinematograph in 1895\, the first screenings were held at the Mechanics’ Institute\, meaning many had their first ever experience of ‘moving pictures’ in our beautiful Minerva Theatre. Since then\, thousands of movies have been screened in the theatre through its many iterations\, including at the Vegas 70 theatre which is being reactivated for this year’s Heritage Week. Come along from 5.30pm to grab a drink and wander through the exhibition in the Williamson Foyer\, the former candy bar of the cinema\, before the talk.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The BMI’s Twilight Talks series has been a forum for sharing fascinating history and radical futures since 2001\, check out our website for upcoming talks.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Not the Last Picture Show: History of Hoyts\, Ballarat \n \n Hoyts is synonymous with cinema in Australia. As Australia’s oldest and largest cinema\, it has entertained generations of audiences from the silent era through to the present age. At the start of the 20th century\, Melbourne dentist and cornet player Arthur Russell bought a share in a small touring American circus that visited Melbourne\, called Hoyts Circus. Russell toured with the circus as a magician\, but it did not prove to be a financial success. In 1908\, he started presenting moving pictures at St George’s Hall in Bourke Street\, accompanying the silent films with his small family band: his wife on piano\, son on drums\, and Russell on cornet. On 18 September 1909 he opened Hoyts Picture Palace\, and formed a company called Hoyts Pictures Pty Ltd. The old hall was rebuilt and renamed “Hoyts De Luxe”. By the end of World War I\, Hoyts had expanded into the suburbs of Melbourne and into Sydney. The shows included vaudeville acts\, as was common practice in those days. \n \n While countless stories have been shown on Hoyts’ screens\, the story of the Hoyts along with its unique connection with Australian audiences has largely been overlooked. A project is underway that aims to gain an insight into the unique history Hoyts by conducting oral history interviews with Hoyts cinema patrons as well as those who worked there.  We hope that you will participate in this exciting project by sharing your stories\, experiences\, and memories with us through the ‘Share a Story’ page. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Dr Stephen Gaunson \n \n \n \n \n \n Stephen Gaunson is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Media and Communication at RMIT University. He researches cinema histories including the experience of going to the cinema as a social act. Dr Gaunson’s books include The Ned Kelly Films and American–Australian Cinema: Transnational Connections. Steve researches on national and international cinema industries. Over the past few years\, a significant focus of his research has been investigating the social act of going to the cinema. Having built national standing as a leading authority during this time\, in 2022 he secured a grant to research the history of Hoyts Cinemas in Australia\, which will deliver a series of impactful outcomes including a book\, under contract. Steve is Higher Degree Research Director\, DSC\, which is one of three academic colleges at RMIT consisting of eight schools and 750 HDR candidates across a broad range of disciplines and with presence in Vietnam\, Barcelona\, Singapore and China. He leads HDR College activity as it relates to industry partnered projects\, internships and international recruitment strategies. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dr Stephen Gaunson\n \n \n \n More about Research History of Hoyts Cinemas in Australia \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n In the School of Media & Communication\, Steve teaches undergraduate cinema courses on adaptation\, documentary\, national cinema & film history. He can be regularly heard on ABC Melbourne and Radio National as an expert commentator on the national film industry. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Starting at 6pm (bar open at 5.30pm)\, close 7pm. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cost: $12 general admission | $8 BMI members \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2024 Twilight Talks\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Thanks to the support of Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Follow Community Bank Buninyong socials: \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is part of the Ballarat Heritage Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Our Library | New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks – August 2026\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – August 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Message from the Chair | BMI Board of Directors | August 2026\n Events Program Diversity I have heard from many members lately\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 21 HEARTS\, A Theatre 180 Production | Participant Feedback\n 21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/twilight-talks-focus-on-ballarat-4/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Australian Heritage Festival,Twilight Talks ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/square-promo-2025-ellen.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260506T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260506T200000 DTSTAMP:20260331T043305Z CREATED:20260302T012938Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T043305Z UID:71029-1778094000-1778097600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Kadampa Meditation Series | Love Changes Everything: How to Transform Yourself & the World Around You DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks 2024\, Season 2\, Session 6: History of Hoyts \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$8 – $12 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This special edition of our regular Twilight Talks series will feature speakers discussing the history of cinema in Ballarat\, complimenting our free exhibition. Just a year after the Lumière brothers invented the cinematograph in 1895\, the first screenings were held at the Mechanics’ Institute\, meaning many had their first ever experience of ‘moving pictures’ in our beautiful Minerva Theatre. Since then\, thousands of movies have been screened in the theatre through its many iterations\, including at the Vegas 70 theatre which is being reactivated for this year’s Heritage Week. Come along from 5.30pm to grab a drink and wander through the exhibition in the Williamson Foyer\, the former candy bar of the cinema\, before the talk.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The BMI’s Twilight Talks series has been a forum for sharing fascinating history and radical futures since 2001\, check out our website for upcoming talks.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Not the Last Picture Show: History of Hoyts\, Ballarat \n \n Hoyts is synonymous with cinema in Australia. As Australia’s oldest and largest cinema\, it has entertained generations of audiences from the silent era through to the present age. At the start of the 20th century\, Melbourne dentist and cornet player Arthur Russell bought a share in a small touring American circus that visited Melbourne\, called Hoyts Circus. Russell toured with the circus as a magician\, but it did not prove to be a financial success. In 1908\, he started presenting moving pictures at St George’s Hall in Bourke Street\, accompanying the silent films with his small family band: his wife on piano\, son on drums\, and Russell on cornet. On 18 September 1909 he opened Hoyts Picture Palace\, and formed a company called Hoyts Pictures Pty Ltd. The old hall was rebuilt and renamed “Hoyts De Luxe”. By the end of World War I\, Hoyts had expanded into the suburbs of Melbourne and into Sydney. The shows included vaudeville acts\, as was common practice in those days. \n \n While countless stories have been shown on Hoyts’ screens\, the story of the Hoyts along with its unique connection with Australian audiences has largely been overlooked. A project is underway that aims to gain an insight into the unique history Hoyts by conducting oral history interviews with Hoyts cinema patrons as well as those who worked there.  We hope that you will participate in this exciting project by sharing your stories\, experiences\, and memories with us through the ‘Share a Story’ page. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Dr Stephen Gaunson \n \n \n \n \n \n Stephen Gaunson is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Media and Communication at RMIT University. He researches cinema histories including the experience of going to the cinema as a social act. Dr Gaunson’s books include The Ned Kelly Films and American–Australian Cinema: Transnational Connections. Steve researches on national and international cinema industries. Over the past few years\, a significant focus of his research has been investigating the social act of going to the cinema. Having built national standing as a leading authority during this time\, in 2022 he secured a grant to research the history of Hoyts Cinemas in Australia\, which will deliver a series of impactful outcomes including a book\, under contract. Steve is Higher Degree Research Director\, DSC\, which is one of three academic colleges at RMIT consisting of eight schools and 750 HDR candidates across a broad range of disciplines and with presence in Vietnam\, Barcelona\, Singapore and China. He leads HDR College activity as it relates to industry partnered projects\, internships and international recruitment strategies. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dr Stephen Gaunson\n \n \n \n More about Research History of Hoyts Cinemas in Australia \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n In the School of Media & Communication\, Steve teaches undergraduate cinema courses on adaptation\, documentary\, national cinema & film history. He can be regularly heard on ABC Melbourne and Radio National as an expert commentator on the national film industry. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Starting at 6pm (bar open at 5.30pm)\, close 7pm. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cost: $12 general admission | $8 BMI members \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2024 Twilight Talks\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Thanks to the support of Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Follow Community Bank Buninyong socials: \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is part of the Ballarat Heritage Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Our Library | New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks – August 2026\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – August 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Message from the Chair | BMI Board of Directors | August 2026\n Events Program Diversity I have heard from many members lately\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 21 HEARTS\, A Theatre 180 Production | Participant Feedback\n 21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/kadampa-meditation-series-6-may/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:kadampa ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/3-Love-Changes-BMI-Square.png ORGANIZER;CN="Kadampa Meditation":MAILTO:info@kadampa.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260508T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260508T213000 DTSTAMP:20260331T043207Z CREATED:20260310T034440Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T043207Z UID:71174-1778268600-1778275800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:One Tease Rules Them All: Fellowship of the G-String - The Burlesque Parody DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks 2024\, Season 2\, Session 6: History of Hoyts \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$8 – $12 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This special edition of our regular Twilight Talks series will feature speakers discussing the history of cinema in Ballarat\, complimenting our free exhibition. Just a year after the Lumière brothers invented the cinematograph in 1895\, the first screenings were held at the Mechanics’ Institute\, meaning many had their first ever experience of ‘moving pictures’ in our beautiful Minerva Theatre. Since then\, thousands of movies have been screened in the theatre through its many iterations\, including at the Vegas 70 theatre which is being reactivated for this year’s Heritage Week. Come along from 5.30pm to grab a drink and wander through the exhibition in the Williamson Foyer\, the former candy bar of the cinema\, before the talk.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The BMI’s Twilight Talks series has been a forum for sharing fascinating history and radical futures since 2001\, check out our website for upcoming talks.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Not the Last Picture Show: History of Hoyts\, Ballarat \n \n Hoyts is synonymous with cinema in Australia. As Australia’s oldest and largest cinema\, it has entertained generations of audiences from the silent era through to the present age. At the start of the 20th century\, Melbourne dentist and cornet player Arthur Russell bought a share in a small touring American circus that visited Melbourne\, called Hoyts Circus. Russell toured with the circus as a magician\, but it did not prove to be a financial success. In 1908\, he started presenting moving pictures at St George’s Hall in Bourke Street\, accompanying the silent films with his small family band: his wife on piano\, son on drums\, and Russell on cornet. On 18 September 1909 he opened Hoyts Picture Palace\, and formed a company called Hoyts Pictures Pty Ltd. The old hall was rebuilt and renamed “Hoyts De Luxe”. By the end of World War I\, Hoyts had expanded into the suburbs of Melbourne and into Sydney. The shows included vaudeville acts\, as was common practice in those days. \n \n While countless stories have been shown on Hoyts’ screens\, the story of the Hoyts along with its unique connection with Australian audiences has largely been overlooked. A project is underway that aims to gain an insight into the unique history Hoyts by conducting oral history interviews with Hoyts cinema patrons as well as those who worked there.  We hope that you will participate in this exciting project by sharing your stories\, experiences\, and memories with us through the ‘Share a Story’ page. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Dr Stephen Gaunson \n \n \n \n \n \n Stephen Gaunson is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Media and Communication at RMIT University. He researches cinema histories including the experience of going to the cinema as a social act. Dr Gaunson’s books include The Ned Kelly Films and American–Australian Cinema: Transnational Connections. Steve researches on national and international cinema industries. Over the past few years\, a significant focus of his research has been investigating the social act of going to the cinema. Having built national standing as a leading authority during this time\, in 2022 he secured a grant to research the history of Hoyts Cinemas in Australia\, which will deliver a series of impactful outcomes including a book\, under contract. Steve is Higher Degree Research Director\, DSC\, which is one of three academic colleges at RMIT consisting of eight schools and 750 HDR candidates across a broad range of disciplines and with presence in Vietnam\, Barcelona\, Singapore and China. He leads HDR College activity as it relates to industry partnered projects\, internships and international recruitment strategies. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dr Stephen Gaunson\n \n \n \n More about Research History of Hoyts Cinemas in Australia \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n In the School of Media & Communication\, Steve teaches undergraduate cinema courses on adaptation\, documentary\, national cinema & film history. He can be regularly heard on ABC Melbourne and Radio National as an expert commentator on the national film industry. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Starting at 6pm (bar open at 5.30pm)\, close 7pm. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cost: $12 general admission | $8 BMI members \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2024 Twilight Talks\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Thanks to the support of Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Follow Community Bank Buninyong socials: \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is part of the Ballarat Heritage Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Our Library | New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks – August 2026\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – August 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Message from the Chair | BMI Board of Directors | August 2026\n Events Program Diversity I have heard from many members lately\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 21 HEARTS\, A Theatre 180 Production | Participant Feedback\n 21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/one-tease-rules-them-all/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Theatre Production ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Sq-promo-one.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Ethereal Realm Events Co.":MAILTO:etherealrealm.eventsco@gmail.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260509T100000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260509T113000 DTSTAMP:20260408T033520Z CREATED:20260121T221045Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260408T033520Z UID:70205-1778320800-1778326200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Teeny Tiny Stevies - Brain Fart Tour DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks 2024\, Season 2\, Session 6: History of Hoyts \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$8 – $12 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This special edition of our regular Twilight Talks series will feature speakers discussing the history of cinema in Ballarat\, complimenting our free exhibition. Just a year after the Lumière brothers invented the cinematograph in 1895\, the first screenings were held at the Mechanics’ Institute\, meaning many had their first ever experience of ‘moving pictures’ in our beautiful Minerva Theatre. Since then\, thousands of movies have been screened in the theatre through its many iterations\, including at the Vegas 70 theatre which is being reactivated for this year’s Heritage Week. Come along from 5.30pm to grab a drink and wander through the exhibition in the Williamson Foyer\, the former candy bar of the cinema\, before the talk.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The BMI’s Twilight Talks series has been a forum for sharing fascinating history and radical futures since 2001\, check out our website for upcoming talks.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Not the Last Picture Show: History of Hoyts\, Ballarat \n \n Hoyts is synonymous with cinema in Australia. As Australia’s oldest and largest cinema\, it has entertained generations of audiences from the silent era through to the present age. At the start of the 20th century\, Melbourne dentist and cornet player Arthur Russell bought a share in a small touring American circus that visited Melbourne\, called Hoyts Circus. Russell toured with the circus as a magician\, but it did not prove to be a financial success. In 1908\, he started presenting moving pictures at St George’s Hall in Bourke Street\, accompanying the silent films with his small family band: his wife on piano\, son on drums\, and Russell on cornet. On 18 September 1909 he opened Hoyts Picture Palace\, and formed a company called Hoyts Pictures Pty Ltd. The old hall was rebuilt and renamed “Hoyts De Luxe”. By the end of World War I\, Hoyts had expanded into the suburbs of Melbourne and into Sydney. The shows included vaudeville acts\, as was common practice in those days. \n \n While countless stories have been shown on Hoyts’ screens\, the story of the Hoyts along with its unique connection with Australian audiences has largely been overlooked. A project is underway that aims to gain an insight into the unique history Hoyts by conducting oral history interviews with Hoyts cinema patrons as well as those who worked there.  We hope that you will participate in this exciting project by sharing your stories\, experiences\, and memories with us through the ‘Share a Story’ page. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Dr Stephen Gaunson \n \n \n \n \n \n Stephen Gaunson is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Media and Communication at RMIT University. He researches cinema histories including the experience of going to the cinema as a social act. Dr Gaunson’s books include The Ned Kelly Films and American–Australian Cinema: Transnational Connections. Steve researches on national and international cinema industries. Over the past few years\, a significant focus of his research has been investigating the social act of going to the cinema. Having built national standing as a leading authority during this time\, in 2022 he secured a grant to research the history of Hoyts Cinemas in Australia\, which will deliver a series of impactful outcomes including a book\, under contract. Steve is Higher Degree Research Director\, DSC\, which is one of three academic colleges at RMIT consisting of eight schools and 750 HDR candidates across a broad range of disciplines and with presence in Vietnam\, Barcelona\, Singapore and China. He leads HDR College activity as it relates to industry partnered projects\, internships and international recruitment strategies. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dr Stephen Gaunson\n \n \n \n More about Research History of Hoyts Cinemas in Australia \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n In the School of Media & Communication\, Steve teaches undergraduate cinema courses on adaptation\, documentary\, national cinema & film history. He can be regularly heard on ABC Melbourne and Radio National as an expert commentator on the national film industry. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Starting at 6pm (bar open at 5.30pm)\, close 7pm. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cost: $12 general admission | $8 BMI members \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2024 Twilight Talks\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Thanks to the support of Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Follow Community Bank Buninyong socials: \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is part of the Ballarat Heritage Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Our Library | New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks – August 2026\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – August 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Message from the Chair | BMI Board of Directors | August 2026\n Events Program Diversity I have heard from many members lately\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 21 HEARTS\, A Theatre 180 Production | Participant Feedback\n 21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/teeny-tiny-stevies-brain-fart-tour/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Comedy,Live Music,Theatre Production ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Square-logo-only-1920x1920-1.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260509T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260509T213000 DTSTAMP:20260331T043048Z CREATED:20260310T043604Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T043048Z UID:71186-1778355000-1778362200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:One Tease Rules Them All: Fellowship of the G-String - The Burlesque Parody DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks 2024\, Season 2\, Session 6: History of Hoyts \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$8 – $12 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This special edition of our regular Twilight Talks series will feature speakers discussing the history of cinema in Ballarat\, complimenting our free exhibition. Just a year after the Lumière brothers invented the cinematograph in 1895\, the first screenings were held at the Mechanics’ Institute\, meaning many had their first ever experience of ‘moving pictures’ in our beautiful Minerva Theatre. Since then\, thousands of movies have been screened in the theatre through its many iterations\, including at the Vegas 70 theatre which is being reactivated for this year’s Heritage Week. Come along from 5.30pm to grab a drink and wander through the exhibition in the Williamson Foyer\, the former candy bar of the cinema\, before the talk.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The BMI’s Twilight Talks series has been a forum for sharing fascinating history and radical futures since 2001\, check out our website for upcoming talks.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Not the Last Picture Show: History of Hoyts\, Ballarat \n \n Hoyts is synonymous with cinema in Australia. As Australia’s oldest and largest cinema\, it has entertained generations of audiences from the silent era through to the present age. At the start of the 20th century\, Melbourne dentist and cornet player Arthur Russell bought a share in a small touring American circus that visited Melbourne\, called Hoyts Circus. Russell toured with the circus as a magician\, but it did not prove to be a financial success. In 1908\, he started presenting moving pictures at St George’s Hall in Bourke Street\, accompanying the silent films with his small family band: his wife on piano\, son on drums\, and Russell on cornet. On 18 September 1909 he opened Hoyts Picture Palace\, and formed a company called Hoyts Pictures Pty Ltd. The old hall was rebuilt and renamed “Hoyts De Luxe”. By the end of World War I\, Hoyts had expanded into the suburbs of Melbourne and into Sydney. The shows included vaudeville acts\, as was common practice in those days. \n \n While countless stories have been shown on Hoyts’ screens\, the story of the Hoyts along with its unique connection with Australian audiences has largely been overlooked. A project is underway that aims to gain an insight into the unique history Hoyts by conducting oral history interviews with Hoyts cinema patrons as well as those who worked there.  We hope that you will participate in this exciting project by sharing your stories\, experiences\, and memories with us through the ‘Share a Story’ page. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Dr Stephen Gaunson \n \n \n \n \n \n Stephen Gaunson is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Media and Communication at RMIT University. He researches cinema histories including the experience of going to the cinema as a social act. Dr Gaunson’s books include The Ned Kelly Films and American–Australian Cinema: Transnational Connections. Steve researches on national and international cinema industries. Over the past few years\, a significant focus of his research has been investigating the social act of going to the cinema. Having built national standing as a leading authority during this time\, in 2022 he secured a grant to research the history of Hoyts Cinemas in Australia\, which will deliver a series of impactful outcomes including a book\, under contract. Steve is Higher Degree Research Director\, DSC\, which is one of three academic colleges at RMIT consisting of eight schools and 750 HDR candidates across a broad range of disciplines and with presence in Vietnam\, Barcelona\, Singapore and China. He leads HDR College activity as it relates to industry partnered projects\, internships and international recruitment strategies. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dr Stephen Gaunson\n \n \n \n More about Research History of Hoyts Cinemas in Australia \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n In the School of Media & Communication\, Steve teaches undergraduate cinema courses on adaptation\, documentary\, national cinema & film history. He can be regularly heard on ABC Melbourne and Radio National as an expert commentator on the national film industry. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Starting at 6pm (bar open at 5.30pm)\, close 7pm. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cost: $12 general admission | $8 BMI members \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2024 Twilight Talks\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Thanks to the support of Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Follow Community Bank Buninyong socials: \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is part of the Ballarat Heritage Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Our Library | New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks – August 2026\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – August 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Message from the Chair | BMI Board of Directors | August 2026\n Events Program Diversity I have heard from many members lately\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 21 HEARTS\, A Theatre 180 Production | Participant Feedback\n 21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/one-tease-rules-them-all-2/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Theatre Production ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Sq-promo-one.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Ethereal Realm Events Co.":MAILTO:etherealrealm.eventsco@gmail.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260511T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260511T193000 DTSTAMP:20260331T043011Z CREATED:20260316T013945Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T043011Z UID:71295-1778522400-1778527800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with Victoria Purman DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks 2024\, Season 2\, Session 6: History of Hoyts \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$8 – $12 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This special edition of our regular Twilight Talks series will feature speakers discussing the history of cinema in Ballarat\, complimenting our free exhibition. Just a year after the Lumière brothers invented the cinematograph in 1895\, the first screenings were held at the Mechanics’ Institute\, meaning many had their first ever experience of ‘moving pictures’ in our beautiful Minerva Theatre. Since then\, thousands of movies have been screened in the theatre through its many iterations\, including at the Vegas 70 theatre which is being reactivated for this year’s Heritage Week. Come along from 5.30pm to grab a drink and wander through the exhibition in the Williamson Foyer\, the former candy bar of the cinema\, before the talk.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The BMI’s Twilight Talks series has been a forum for sharing fascinating history and radical futures since 2001\, check out our website for upcoming talks.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Not the Last Picture Show: History of Hoyts\, Ballarat \n \n Hoyts is synonymous with cinema in Australia. As Australia’s oldest and largest cinema\, it has entertained generations of audiences from the silent era through to the present age. At the start of the 20th century\, Melbourne dentist and cornet player Arthur Russell bought a share in a small touring American circus that visited Melbourne\, called Hoyts Circus. Russell toured with the circus as a magician\, but it did not prove to be a financial success. In 1908\, he started presenting moving pictures at St George’s Hall in Bourke Street\, accompanying the silent films with his small family band: his wife on piano\, son on drums\, and Russell on cornet. On 18 September 1909 he opened Hoyts Picture Palace\, and formed a company called Hoyts Pictures Pty Ltd. The old hall was rebuilt and renamed “Hoyts De Luxe”. By the end of World War I\, Hoyts had expanded into the suburbs of Melbourne and into Sydney. The shows included vaudeville acts\, as was common practice in those days. \n \n While countless stories have been shown on Hoyts’ screens\, the story of the Hoyts along with its unique connection with Australian audiences has largely been overlooked. A project is underway that aims to gain an insight into the unique history Hoyts by conducting oral history interviews with Hoyts cinema patrons as well as those who worked there.  We hope that you will participate in this exciting project by sharing your stories\, experiences\, and memories with us through the ‘Share a Story’ page. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Dr Stephen Gaunson \n \n \n \n \n \n Stephen Gaunson is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Media and Communication at RMIT University. He researches cinema histories including the experience of going to the cinema as a social act. Dr Gaunson’s books include The Ned Kelly Films and American–Australian Cinema: Transnational Connections. Steve researches on national and international cinema industries. Over the past few years\, a significant focus of his research has been investigating the social act of going to the cinema. Having built national standing as a leading authority during this time\, in 2022 he secured a grant to research the history of Hoyts Cinemas in Australia\, which will deliver a series of impactful outcomes including a book\, under contract. Steve is Higher Degree Research Director\, DSC\, which is one of three academic colleges at RMIT consisting of eight schools and 750 HDR candidates across a broad range of disciplines and with presence in Vietnam\, Barcelona\, Singapore and China. He leads HDR College activity as it relates to industry partnered projects\, internships and international recruitment strategies. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dr Stephen Gaunson\n \n \n \n More about Research History of Hoyts Cinemas in Australia \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n In the School of Media & Communication\, Steve teaches undergraduate cinema courses on adaptation\, documentary\, national cinema & film history. He can be regularly heard on ABC Melbourne and Radio National as an expert commentator on the national film industry. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Starting at 6pm (bar open at 5.30pm)\, close 7pm. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cost: $12 general admission | $8 BMI members \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2024 Twilight Talks\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Thanks to the support of Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Follow Community Bank Buninyong socials: \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is part of the Ballarat Heritage Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Our Library | New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks – August 2026\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – August 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Message from the Chair | BMI Board of Directors | August 2026\n Events Program Diversity I have heard from many members lately\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 21 HEARTS\, A Theatre 180 Production | Participant Feedback\n 21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/victoria-purman/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/sp-promo-talks-victoria-purman.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260513T183000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260513T200000 DTSTAMP:20260331T041831Z CREATED:20260303T011741Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T041831Z UID:71063-1778697000-1778702400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with Kerri Rogan DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks 2024\, Season 2\, Session 6: History of Hoyts \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$8 – $12 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This special edition of our regular Twilight Talks series will feature speakers discussing the history of cinema in Ballarat\, complimenting our free exhibition. Just a year after the Lumière brothers invented the cinematograph in 1895\, the first screenings were held at the Mechanics’ Institute\, meaning many had their first ever experience of ‘moving pictures’ in our beautiful Minerva Theatre. Since then\, thousands of movies have been screened in the theatre through its many iterations\, including at the Vegas 70 theatre which is being reactivated for this year’s Heritage Week. Come along from 5.30pm to grab a drink and wander through the exhibition in the Williamson Foyer\, the former candy bar of the cinema\, before the talk.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The BMI’s Twilight Talks series has been a forum for sharing fascinating history and radical futures since 2001\, check out our website for upcoming talks.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Not the Last Picture Show: History of Hoyts\, Ballarat \n \n Hoyts is synonymous with cinema in Australia. As Australia’s oldest and largest cinema\, it has entertained generations of audiences from the silent era through to the present age. At the start of the 20th century\, Melbourne dentist and cornet player Arthur Russell bought a share in a small touring American circus that visited Melbourne\, called Hoyts Circus. Russell toured with the circus as a magician\, but it did not prove to be a financial success. In 1908\, he started presenting moving pictures at St George’s Hall in Bourke Street\, accompanying the silent films with his small family band: his wife on piano\, son on drums\, and Russell on cornet. On 18 September 1909 he opened Hoyts Picture Palace\, and formed a company called Hoyts Pictures Pty Ltd. The old hall was rebuilt and renamed “Hoyts De Luxe”. By the end of World War I\, Hoyts had expanded into the suburbs of Melbourne and into Sydney. The shows included vaudeville acts\, as was common practice in those days. \n \n While countless stories have been shown on Hoyts’ screens\, the story of the Hoyts along with its unique connection with Australian audiences has largely been overlooked. A project is underway that aims to gain an insight into the unique history Hoyts by conducting oral history interviews with Hoyts cinema patrons as well as those who worked there.  We hope that you will participate in this exciting project by sharing your stories\, experiences\, and memories with us through the ‘Share a Story’ page. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Dr Stephen Gaunson \n \n \n \n \n \n Stephen Gaunson is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Media and Communication at RMIT University. He researches cinema histories including the experience of going to the cinema as a social act. Dr Gaunson’s books include The Ned Kelly Films and American–Australian Cinema: Transnational Connections. Steve researches on national and international cinema industries. Over the past few years\, a significant focus of his research has been investigating the social act of going to the cinema. Having built national standing as a leading authority during this time\, in 2022 he secured a grant to research the history of Hoyts Cinemas in Australia\, which will deliver a series of impactful outcomes including a book\, under contract. Steve is Higher Degree Research Director\, DSC\, which is one of three academic colleges at RMIT consisting of eight schools and 750 HDR candidates across a broad range of disciplines and with presence in Vietnam\, Barcelona\, Singapore and China. He leads HDR College activity as it relates to industry partnered projects\, internships and international recruitment strategies. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dr Stephen Gaunson\n \n \n \n More about Research History of Hoyts Cinemas in Australia \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n In the School of Media & Communication\, Steve teaches undergraduate cinema courses on adaptation\, documentary\, national cinema & film history. He can be regularly heard on ABC Melbourne and Radio National as an expert commentator on the national film industry. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Starting at 6pm (bar open at 5.30pm)\, close 7pm. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cost: $12 general admission | $8 BMI members \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2024 Twilight Talks\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Thanks to the support of Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Follow Community Bank Buninyong socials: \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is part of the Ballarat Heritage Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Our Library | New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks – August 2026\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – August 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Message from the Chair | BMI Board of Directors | August 2026\n Events Program Diversity I have heard from many members lately\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 21 HEARTS\, A Theatre 180 Production | Participant Feedback\n 21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/in-conversation-with-kerri-rogan/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/sp-promo-talks-v3.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260513T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260513T200000 DTSTAMP:20260331T041747Z CREATED:20260302T013053Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T041747Z UID:71031-1778698800-1778702400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Kadampa Meditation Series | Love Changes Everything: How to Transform Yourself & the World Around You DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks 2024\, Season 2\, Session 6: History of Hoyts \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$8 – $12 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This special edition of our regular Twilight Talks series will feature speakers discussing the history of cinema in Ballarat\, complimenting our free exhibition. Just a year after the Lumière brothers invented the cinematograph in 1895\, the first screenings were held at the Mechanics’ Institute\, meaning many had their first ever experience of ‘moving pictures’ in our beautiful Minerva Theatre. Since then\, thousands of movies have been screened in the theatre through its many iterations\, including at the Vegas 70 theatre which is being reactivated for this year’s Heritage Week. Come along from 5.30pm to grab a drink and wander through the exhibition in the Williamson Foyer\, the former candy bar of the cinema\, before the talk.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The BMI’s Twilight Talks series has been a forum for sharing fascinating history and radical futures since 2001\, check out our website for upcoming talks.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Not the Last Picture Show: History of Hoyts\, Ballarat \n \n Hoyts is synonymous with cinema in Australia. As Australia’s oldest and largest cinema\, it has entertained generations of audiences from the silent era through to the present age. At the start of the 20th century\, Melbourne dentist and cornet player Arthur Russell bought a share in a small touring American circus that visited Melbourne\, called Hoyts Circus. Russell toured with the circus as a magician\, but it did not prove to be a financial success. In 1908\, he started presenting moving pictures at St George’s Hall in Bourke Street\, accompanying the silent films with his small family band: his wife on piano\, son on drums\, and Russell on cornet. On 18 September 1909 he opened Hoyts Picture Palace\, and formed a company called Hoyts Pictures Pty Ltd. The old hall was rebuilt and renamed “Hoyts De Luxe”. By the end of World War I\, Hoyts had expanded into the suburbs of Melbourne and into Sydney. The shows included vaudeville acts\, as was common practice in those days. \n \n While countless stories have been shown on Hoyts’ screens\, the story of the Hoyts along with its unique connection with Australian audiences has largely been overlooked. A project is underway that aims to gain an insight into the unique history Hoyts by conducting oral history interviews with Hoyts cinema patrons as well as those who worked there.  We hope that you will participate in this exciting project by sharing your stories\, experiences\, and memories with us through the ‘Share a Story’ page. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Dr Stephen Gaunson \n \n \n \n \n \n Stephen Gaunson is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Media and Communication at RMIT University. He researches cinema histories including the experience of going to the cinema as a social act. Dr Gaunson’s books include The Ned Kelly Films and American–Australian Cinema: Transnational Connections. Steve researches on national and international cinema industries. Over the past few years\, a significant focus of his research has been investigating the social act of going to the cinema. Having built national standing as a leading authority during this time\, in 2022 he secured a grant to research the history of Hoyts Cinemas in Australia\, which will deliver a series of impactful outcomes including a book\, under contract. Steve is Higher Degree Research Director\, DSC\, which is one of three academic colleges at RMIT consisting of eight schools and 750 HDR candidates across a broad range of disciplines and with presence in Vietnam\, Barcelona\, Singapore and China. He leads HDR College activity as it relates to industry partnered projects\, internships and international recruitment strategies. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dr Stephen Gaunson\n \n \n \n More about Research History of Hoyts Cinemas in Australia \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n In the School of Media & Communication\, Steve teaches undergraduate cinema courses on adaptation\, documentary\, national cinema & film history. He can be regularly heard on ABC Melbourne and Radio National as an expert commentator on the national film industry. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Starting at 6pm (bar open at 5.30pm)\, close 7pm. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cost: $12 general admission | $8 BMI members \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2024 Twilight Talks\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Thanks to the support of Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Follow Community Bank Buninyong socials: \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is part of the Ballarat Heritage Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Our Library | New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks – August 2026\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – August 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Message from the Chair | BMI Board of Directors | August 2026\n Events Program Diversity I have heard from many members lately\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 21 HEARTS\, A Theatre 180 Production | Participant Feedback\n 21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/kadampa-meditation-series-13-may/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:kadampa ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/3-Love-Changes-BMI-Square.png ORGANIZER;CN="Kadampa Meditation":MAILTO:info@kadampa.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260514T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260514T210000 DTSTAMP:20260409T035403Z CREATED:20260129T041334Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260409T035403Z UID:70407-1778787000-1778792400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Ballarat Film Society | Black Dog DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks 2024\, Season 2\, Session 6: History of Hoyts \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n May 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n6:00 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n7:00 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$8 – $12 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This special edition of our regular Twilight Talks series will feature speakers discussing the history of cinema in Ballarat\, complimenting our free exhibition. Just a year after the Lumière brothers invented the cinematograph in 1895\, the first screenings were held at the Mechanics’ Institute\, meaning many had their first ever experience of ‘moving pictures’ in our beautiful Minerva Theatre. Since then\, thousands of movies have been screened in the theatre through its many iterations\, including at the Vegas 70 theatre which is being reactivated for this year’s Heritage Week. Come along from 5.30pm to grab a drink and wander through the exhibition in the Williamson Foyer\, the former candy bar of the cinema\, before the talk.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The BMI’s Twilight Talks series has been a forum for sharing fascinating history and radical futures since 2001\, check out our website for upcoming talks.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Not the Last Picture Show: History of Hoyts\, Ballarat \n \n Hoyts is synonymous with cinema in Australia. As Australia’s oldest and largest cinema\, it has entertained generations of audiences from the silent era through to the present age. At the start of the 20th century\, Melbourne dentist and cornet player Arthur Russell bought a share in a small touring American circus that visited Melbourne\, called Hoyts Circus. Russell toured with the circus as a magician\, but it did not prove to be a financial success. In 1908\, he started presenting moving pictures at St George’s Hall in Bourke Street\, accompanying the silent films with his small family band: his wife on piano\, son on drums\, and Russell on cornet. On 18 September 1909 he opened Hoyts Picture Palace\, and formed a company called Hoyts Pictures Pty Ltd. The old hall was rebuilt and renamed “Hoyts De Luxe”. By the end of World War I\, Hoyts had expanded into the suburbs of Melbourne and into Sydney. The shows included vaudeville acts\, as was common practice in those days. \n \n While countless stories have been shown on Hoyts’ screens\, the story of the Hoyts along with its unique connection with Australian audiences has largely been overlooked. A project is underway that aims to gain an insight into the unique history Hoyts by conducting oral history interviews with Hoyts cinema patrons as well as those who worked there.  We hope that you will participate in this exciting project by sharing your stories\, experiences\, and memories with us through the ‘Share a Story’ page. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Dr Stephen Gaunson \n \n \n \n \n \n Stephen Gaunson is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Media and Communication at RMIT University. He researches cinema histories including the experience of going to the cinema as a social act. Dr Gaunson’s books include The Ned Kelly Films and American–Australian Cinema: Transnational Connections. Steve researches on national and international cinema industries. Over the past few years\, a significant focus of his research has been investigating the social act of going to the cinema. Having built national standing as a leading authority during this time\, in 2022 he secured a grant to research the history of Hoyts Cinemas in Australia\, which will deliver a series of impactful outcomes including a book\, under contract. Steve is Higher Degree Research Director\, DSC\, which is one of three academic colleges at RMIT consisting of eight schools and 750 HDR candidates across a broad range of disciplines and with presence in Vietnam\, Barcelona\, Singapore and China. He leads HDR College activity as it relates to industry partnered projects\, internships and international recruitment strategies. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dr Stephen Gaunson\n \n \n \n More about Research History of Hoyts Cinemas in Australia \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n In the School of Media & Communication\, Steve teaches undergraduate cinema courses on adaptation\, documentary\, national cinema & film history. He can be regularly heard on ABC Melbourne and Radio National as an expert commentator on the national film industry. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Starting at 6pm (bar open at 5.30pm)\, close 7pm. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cost: $12 general admission | $8 BMI members \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2024 Twilight Talks\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Thanks to the support of Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Follow Community Bank Buninyong socials: \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is part of the Ballarat Heritage Festival \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BMI news \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Our Library | New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks – August 2026\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – August 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Message from the Chair | BMI Board of Directors | August 2026\n Events Program Diversity I have heard from many members lately\,... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 21 HEARTS\, A Theatre 180 Production | Participant Feedback\n 21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/ballarat-film-society-black-dog/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Ballarat Film Society,Film ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/black-dog-sq-promo.jpg END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR