BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute - ECPv6.16.3//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-WR-CALNAME:Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:Australia/Melbourne BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+1100 TZOFFSETTO:+1000 TZNAME:AEST DTSTART:20240406T160000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+1000 TZOFFSETTO:+1100 TZNAME:AEDT DTSTART:20241005T160000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+1100 TZOFFSETTO:+1000 TZNAME:AEST DTSTART:20250405T160000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+1000 TZOFFSETTO:+1100 TZNAME:AEDT DTSTART:20251004T160000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+1100 TZOFFSETTO:+1000 TZNAME:AEST DTSTART:20260404T160000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+1000 TZOFFSETTO:+1100 TZNAME:AEDT DTSTART:20261003T160000 END:DAYLIGHT END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250501T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250501T200000 DTSTAMP:20260614T035204 CREATED:20241204T012140Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250410T031044Z UID:60465-1746122400-1746129600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with Natasha Lester DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat – Nostalgic memories of Stawell & Ballarat – 1950s and 1960s \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n5:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n6:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$9 – $13 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Geoff Carr\, author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Spike is a young boy in 1950s Australia\, surrounded by sprawling landscapesand a menagerie of animals. Together with his friends Leany and Riddy\, they do what all young boys in the bush do: make their own fun. From chooks in outhouses\, exploding trees and rats at the flicks to standing up to backyard bullies\, farewelling dear friends and making unexpected new ones\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories traverses the passing of time\, documenting a life well lived and fondly remembered. Laced with dry humour and typical understated Australian cadence\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories invites readers to look back at life in a time gone by and delight in the charming stories of author Geoff Carr. \n \n \n \n ReviewsDickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories is unlike anything I’ve read before. It feels like a eulogy – not a sombre one\, but more in the way you might catch up with friends from years gone\, with a beer in hand\, and swap stories and laughter and tears. It’s filled with absurdity\, heartbreak\, humour and a quiet reverence that never quite leaves\, even long after you’ve finished reading it. These aren’t just stories; they’re lived-in moments\, softened by age and nostalgia and celebratory for the joy of having truly known someone. Among that\, Carr gives us – the reader – something precious: the gift of sharing. These are no longer just his memories – they’re ours. And in that act of sharing\, the people and characters and souls and memories tied up within these stories live on. They continue to exist beside him and now\, beside us. Stephanie\, ARC Reviewer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the speaker \n \n \n Geoff Carr\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Geoff Carr is a Ballarat-based author of short stories inspired by his childhood. He grew up in the Wimmera town of Stawell and cherished his caring and loving upbringing enveloped in the blue silhouettes of the famous Grampians and lesser- known Black Ranges. This was the setting before commencing his teaching career and settling in Ballarat for over fifty years. Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin; Other Stories is a collection of short stories that presents a sentimental portrait of boyhood and bush life told through Carr’s quintessentially Australian humour and country charm. ‘This is a book of memories. I want people to be transported back in time where thosenostalgic memories can be reignited\,’ Carr said. Early readers have praised this collection as both a tribute and a celebration\, “like catching up with old friends\, swapping stories\, laughter and tears.” The standout piece\, Through Coloured Windows explores grief with striking tenderness\, while the book’s namesake\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin is celebration as “one-of-a-kind\, laugh-your-ass-off funny!” \n \n \n \n \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 will be supported by Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $13 per person plus booking fee\, general admission | $9 for BMI members plus booking fee. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/natasha-lester/ LOCATION:VIC CATEGORIES:Australian Heritage Festival,Author Talk,Fundraiser,Important Dates,Library,Victorian Seniors Festival ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/sq-promo-natasha-lester-1-may.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250504T140000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250504T160000 DTSTAMP:20260614T035204 CREATED:20250403T014922Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250408T003645Z UID:64247-1746367200-1746374400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:E A Gleeson\, Book Launch - The Deepest Thing: A Poetic Memoir DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat – Nostalgic memories of Stawell & Ballarat – 1950s and 1960s \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n5:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n6:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$9 – $13 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Geoff Carr\, author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Spike is a young boy in 1950s Australia\, surrounded by sprawling landscapesand a menagerie of animals. Together with his friends Leany and Riddy\, they do what all young boys in the bush do: make their own fun. From chooks in outhouses\, exploding trees and rats at the flicks to standing up to backyard bullies\, farewelling dear friends and making unexpected new ones\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories traverses the passing of time\, documenting a life well lived and fondly remembered. Laced with dry humour and typical understated Australian cadence\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories invites readers to look back at life in a time gone by and delight in the charming stories of author Geoff Carr. \n \n \n \n ReviewsDickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories is unlike anything I’ve read before. It feels like a eulogy – not a sombre one\, but more in the way you might catch up with friends from years gone\, with a beer in hand\, and swap stories and laughter and tears. It’s filled with absurdity\, heartbreak\, humour and a quiet reverence that never quite leaves\, even long after you’ve finished reading it. These aren’t just stories; they’re lived-in moments\, softened by age and nostalgia and celebratory for the joy of having truly known someone. Among that\, Carr gives us – the reader – something precious: the gift of sharing. These are no longer just his memories – they’re ours. And in that act of sharing\, the people and characters and souls and memories tied up within these stories live on. They continue to exist beside him and now\, beside us. Stephanie\, ARC Reviewer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the speaker \n \n \n Geoff Carr\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Geoff Carr is a Ballarat-based author of short stories inspired by his childhood. He grew up in the Wimmera town of Stawell and cherished his caring and loving upbringing enveloped in the blue silhouettes of the famous Grampians and lesser- known Black Ranges. This was the setting before commencing his teaching career and settling in Ballarat for over fifty years. Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin; Other Stories is a collection of short stories that presents a sentimental portrait of boyhood and bush life told through Carr’s quintessentially Australian humour and country charm. ‘This is a book of memories. I want people to be transported back in time where thosenostalgic memories can be reignited\,’ Carr said. Early readers have praised this collection as both a tribute and a celebration\, “like catching up with old friends\, swapping stories\, laughter and tears.” The standout piece\, Through Coloured Windows explores grief with striking tenderness\, while the book’s namesake\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin is celebration as “one-of-a-kind\, laugh-your-ass-off funny!” \n \n \n \n \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 will be supported by Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $13 per person plus booking fee\, general admission | $9 for BMI members plus booking fee. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/anne-gleeson/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/square-promo-anne-gleeson-v2.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250507T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250507T193000 DTSTAMP:20260614T035204 CREATED:20250401T040022Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250502T010026Z UID:64144-1746640800-1746646200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with Mimi Kwa DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat – Nostalgic memories of Stawell & Ballarat – 1950s and 1960s \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n5:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n6:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$9 – $13 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Geoff Carr\, author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Spike is a young boy in 1950s Australia\, surrounded by sprawling landscapesand a menagerie of animals. Together with his friends Leany and Riddy\, they do what all young boys in the bush do: make their own fun. From chooks in outhouses\, exploding trees and rats at the flicks to standing up to backyard bullies\, farewelling dear friends and making unexpected new ones\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories traverses the passing of time\, documenting a life well lived and fondly remembered. Laced with dry humour and typical understated Australian cadence\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories invites readers to look back at life in a time gone by and delight in the charming stories of author Geoff Carr. \n \n \n \n ReviewsDickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories is unlike anything I’ve read before. It feels like a eulogy – not a sombre one\, but more in the way you might catch up with friends from years gone\, with a beer in hand\, and swap stories and laughter and tears. It’s filled with absurdity\, heartbreak\, humour and a quiet reverence that never quite leaves\, even long after you’ve finished reading it. These aren’t just stories; they’re lived-in moments\, softened by age and nostalgia and celebratory for the joy of having truly known someone. Among that\, Carr gives us – the reader – something precious: the gift of sharing. These are no longer just his memories – they’re ours. And in that act of sharing\, the people and characters and souls and memories tied up within these stories live on. They continue to exist beside him and now\, beside us. Stephanie\, ARC Reviewer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the speaker \n \n \n Geoff Carr\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Geoff Carr is a Ballarat-based author of short stories inspired by his childhood. He grew up in the Wimmera town of Stawell and cherished his caring and loving upbringing enveloped in the blue silhouettes of the famous Grampians and lesser- known Black Ranges. This was the setting before commencing his teaching career and settling in Ballarat for over fifty years. Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin; Other Stories is a collection of short stories that presents a sentimental portrait of boyhood and bush life told through Carr’s quintessentially Australian humour and country charm. ‘This is a book of memories. I want people to be transported back in time where thosenostalgic memories can be reignited\,’ Carr said. Early readers have praised this collection as both a tribute and a celebration\, “like catching up with old friends\, swapping stories\, laughter and tears.” The standout piece\, Through Coloured Windows explores grief with striking tenderness\, while the book’s namesake\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin is celebration as “one-of-a-kind\, laugh-your-ass-off funny!” \n \n \n \n \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 will be supported by Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $13 per person plus booking fee\, general admission | $9 for BMI members plus booking fee. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/mimi-kwa/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Fundraiser,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/square-promo-mimi-kwa-v2.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250507T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250507T200000 DTSTAMP:20260614T035204 CREATED:20250211T002737Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250331T235229Z UID:61903-1746644400-1746648000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Kadampa Meditation Series | Find Your Flow: A Buddhist Guide to an Effortless Life DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat – Nostalgic memories of Stawell & Ballarat – 1950s and 1960s \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n5:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n6:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$9 – $13 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Geoff Carr\, author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Spike is a young boy in 1950s Australia\, surrounded by sprawling landscapesand a menagerie of animals. Together with his friends Leany and Riddy\, they do what all young boys in the bush do: make their own fun. From chooks in outhouses\, exploding trees and rats at the flicks to standing up to backyard bullies\, farewelling dear friends and making unexpected new ones\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories traverses the passing of time\, documenting a life well lived and fondly remembered. Laced with dry humour and typical understated Australian cadence\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories invites readers to look back at life in a time gone by and delight in the charming stories of author Geoff Carr. \n \n \n \n ReviewsDickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories is unlike anything I’ve read before. It feels like a eulogy – not a sombre one\, but more in the way you might catch up with friends from years gone\, with a beer in hand\, and swap stories and laughter and tears. It’s filled with absurdity\, heartbreak\, humour and a quiet reverence that never quite leaves\, even long after you’ve finished reading it. These aren’t just stories; they’re lived-in moments\, softened by age and nostalgia and celebratory for the joy of having truly known someone. Among that\, Carr gives us – the reader – something precious: the gift of sharing. These are no longer just his memories – they’re ours. And in that act of sharing\, the people and characters and souls and memories tied up within these stories live on. They continue to exist beside him and now\, beside us. Stephanie\, ARC Reviewer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the speaker \n \n \n Geoff Carr\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Geoff Carr is a Ballarat-based author of short stories inspired by his childhood. He grew up in the Wimmera town of Stawell and cherished his caring and loving upbringing enveloped in the blue silhouettes of the famous Grampians and lesser- known Black Ranges. This was the setting before commencing his teaching career and settling in Ballarat for over fifty years. Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin; Other Stories is a collection of short stories that presents a sentimental portrait of boyhood and bush life told through Carr’s quintessentially Australian humour and country charm. ‘This is a book of memories. I want people to be transported back in time where thosenostalgic memories can be reignited\,’ Carr said. Early readers have praised this collection as both a tribute and a celebration\, “like catching up with old friends\, swapping stories\, laughter and tears.” The standout piece\, Through Coloured Windows explores grief with striking tenderness\, while the book’s namesake\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin is celebration as “one-of-a-kind\, laugh-your-ass-off funny!” \n \n \n \n \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 will be supported by Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $13 per person plus booking fee\, general admission | $9 for BMI members plus booking fee. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/kadampa-meditation-series-7-may-25/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:kadampa ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/square-promo3.webp ORGANIZER;CN="Kadampa Meditation":MAILTO:info@kadampa.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250508T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250508T210000 DTSTAMP:20260614T035204 CREATED:20250212T023140Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250321T062716Z UID:61967-1746732600-1746738000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Ballarat Film Society | Bicycle Thieves (Ladri di Biciclette) DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat – Nostalgic memories of Stawell & Ballarat – 1950s and 1960s \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n5:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n6:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$9 – $13 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Geoff Carr\, author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Spike is a young boy in 1950s Australia\, surrounded by sprawling landscapesand a menagerie of animals. Together with his friends Leany and Riddy\, they do what all young boys in the bush do: make their own fun. From chooks in outhouses\, exploding trees and rats at the flicks to standing up to backyard bullies\, farewelling dear friends and making unexpected new ones\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories traverses the passing of time\, documenting a life well lived and fondly remembered. Laced with dry humour and typical understated Australian cadence\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories invites readers to look back at life in a time gone by and delight in the charming stories of author Geoff Carr. \n \n \n \n ReviewsDickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories is unlike anything I’ve read before. It feels like a eulogy – not a sombre one\, but more in the way you might catch up with friends from years gone\, with a beer in hand\, and swap stories and laughter and tears. It’s filled with absurdity\, heartbreak\, humour and a quiet reverence that never quite leaves\, even long after you’ve finished reading it. These aren’t just stories; they’re lived-in moments\, softened by age and nostalgia and celebratory for the joy of having truly known someone. Among that\, Carr gives us – the reader – something precious: the gift of sharing. These are no longer just his memories – they’re ours. And in that act of sharing\, the people and characters and souls and memories tied up within these stories live on. They continue to exist beside him and now\, beside us. Stephanie\, ARC Reviewer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the speaker \n \n \n Geoff Carr\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Geoff Carr is a Ballarat-based author of short stories inspired by his childhood. He grew up in the Wimmera town of Stawell and cherished his caring and loving upbringing enveloped in the blue silhouettes of the famous Grampians and lesser- known Black Ranges. This was the setting before commencing his teaching career and settling in Ballarat for over fifty years. Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin; Other Stories is a collection of short stories that presents a sentimental portrait of boyhood and bush life told through Carr’s quintessentially Australian humour and country charm. ‘This is a book of memories. I want people to be transported back in time where thosenostalgic memories can be reignited\,’ Carr said. Early readers have praised this collection as both a tribute and a celebration\, “like catching up with old friends\, swapping stories\, laughter and tears.” The standout piece\, Through Coloured Windows explores grief with striking tenderness\, while the book’s namesake\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin is celebration as “one-of-a-kind\, laugh-your-ass-off funny!” \n \n \n \n \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 will be supported by Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $13 per person plus booking fee\, general admission | $9 for BMI members plus booking fee. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/bfs-bicycle-thieves/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Ballarat Film Society,Externally Produced Event,Film ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/sqaure-promo-bfs2.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250509T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250509T190000 DTSTAMP:20260614T035204 CREATED:20250415T035815Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250417T041147Z UID:64500-1746813600-1746817200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Seedpod Ballarat 2025 | Gemma Cavoli - 'Oubliette' | Artist in Residence DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat – Nostalgic memories of Stawell & Ballarat – 1950s and 1960s \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n5:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n6:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$9 – $13 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Geoff Carr\, author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Spike is a young boy in 1950s Australia\, surrounded by sprawling landscapesand a menagerie of animals. Together with his friends Leany and Riddy\, they do what all young boys in the bush do: make their own fun. From chooks in outhouses\, exploding trees and rats at the flicks to standing up to backyard bullies\, farewelling dear friends and making unexpected new ones\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories traverses the passing of time\, documenting a life well lived and fondly remembered. Laced with dry humour and typical understated Australian cadence\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories invites readers to look back at life in a time gone by and delight in the charming stories of author Geoff Carr. \n \n \n \n ReviewsDickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories is unlike anything I’ve read before. It feels like a eulogy – not a sombre one\, but more in the way you might catch up with friends from years gone\, with a beer in hand\, and swap stories and laughter and tears. It’s filled with absurdity\, heartbreak\, humour and a quiet reverence that never quite leaves\, even long after you’ve finished reading it. These aren’t just stories; they’re lived-in moments\, softened by age and nostalgia and celebratory for the joy of having truly known someone. Among that\, Carr gives us – the reader – something precious: the gift of sharing. These are no longer just his memories – they’re ours. And in that act of sharing\, the people and characters and souls and memories tied up within these stories live on. They continue to exist beside him and now\, beside us. Stephanie\, ARC Reviewer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the speaker \n \n \n Geoff Carr\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Geoff Carr is a Ballarat-based author of short stories inspired by his childhood. He grew up in the Wimmera town of Stawell and cherished his caring and loving upbringing enveloped in the blue silhouettes of the famous Grampians and lesser- known Black Ranges. This was the setting before commencing his teaching career and settling in Ballarat for over fifty years. Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin; Other Stories is a collection of short stories that presents a sentimental portrait of boyhood and bush life told through Carr’s quintessentially Australian humour and country charm. ‘This is a book of memories. I want people to be transported back in time where thosenostalgic memories can be reignited\,’ Carr said. Early readers have praised this collection as both a tribute and a celebration\, “like catching up with old friends\, swapping stories\, laughter and tears.” The standout piece\, Through Coloured Windows explores grief with striking tenderness\, while the book’s namesake\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin is celebration as “one-of-a-kind\, laugh-your-ass-off funny!” \n \n \n \n \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 will be supported by Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $13 per person plus booking fee\, general admission | $9 for BMI members plus booking fee. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/seedpod-oubliette/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Artist in Residence,Australian Heritage Festival,Theatre Production ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/oubliette-sq-promo-v2.webp ORGANIZER;CN="Punctum":MAILTO:hq@punctum.com.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250509T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250509T210000 DTSTAMP:20260614T035204 CREATED:20250318T025201Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250430T042710Z UID:62953-1746819000-1746824400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:The Amazing Lucas Girls by acclaimed playwright Cate Whittaker DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat – Nostalgic memories of Stawell & Ballarat – 1950s and 1960s \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n5:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n6:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$9 – $13 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Geoff Carr\, author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Spike is a young boy in 1950s Australia\, surrounded by sprawling landscapesand a menagerie of animals. Together with his friends Leany and Riddy\, they do what all young boys in the bush do: make their own fun. From chooks in outhouses\, exploding trees and rats at the flicks to standing up to backyard bullies\, farewelling dear friends and making unexpected new ones\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories traverses the passing of time\, documenting a life well lived and fondly remembered. Laced with dry humour and typical understated Australian cadence\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories invites readers to look back at life in a time gone by and delight in the charming stories of author Geoff Carr. \n \n \n \n ReviewsDickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories is unlike anything I’ve read before. It feels like a eulogy – not a sombre one\, but more in the way you might catch up with friends from years gone\, with a beer in hand\, and swap stories and laughter and tears. It’s filled with absurdity\, heartbreak\, humour and a quiet reverence that never quite leaves\, even long after you’ve finished reading it. These aren’t just stories; they’re lived-in moments\, softened by age and nostalgia and celebratory for the joy of having truly known someone. Among that\, Carr gives us – the reader – something precious: the gift of sharing. These are no longer just his memories – they’re ours. And in that act of sharing\, the people and characters and souls and memories tied up within these stories live on. They continue to exist beside him and now\, beside us. Stephanie\, ARC Reviewer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the speaker \n \n \n Geoff Carr\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Geoff Carr is a Ballarat-based author of short stories inspired by his childhood. He grew up in the Wimmera town of Stawell and cherished his caring and loving upbringing enveloped in the blue silhouettes of the famous Grampians and lesser- known Black Ranges. This was the setting before commencing his teaching career and settling in Ballarat for over fifty years. Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin; Other Stories is a collection of short stories that presents a sentimental portrait of boyhood and bush life told through Carr’s quintessentially Australian humour and country charm. ‘This is a book of memories. I want people to be transported back in time where thosenostalgic memories can be reignited\,’ Carr said. Early readers have praised this collection as both a tribute and a celebration\, “like catching up with old friends\, swapping stories\, laughter and tears.” The standout piece\, Through Coloured Windows explores grief with striking tenderness\, while the book’s namesake\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin is celebration as “one-of-a-kind\, laugh-your-ass-off funny!” \n \n \n \n \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 will be supported by Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $13 per person plus booking fee\, general admission | $9 for BMI members plus booking fee. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/the-amazing-lucas-girls/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Australian Heritage Festival,Theatre Production ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/A-Hs-LG-hero320-promo-square.webp ORGANIZER;CN="Lost Voices":MAILTO:lostvoicesnsw.au@gmail.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250510T140000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250510T150000 DTSTAMP:20260614T035204 CREATED:20250415T235811Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250417T041141Z UID:64553-1746885600-1746889200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Seedpod Ballarat 2025 | Gemma Cavoli - 'Oubliette' | Artist in Residence DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat – Nostalgic memories of Stawell & Ballarat – 1950s and 1960s \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n5:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n6:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$9 – $13 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Geoff Carr\, author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Spike is a young boy in 1950s Australia\, surrounded by sprawling landscapesand a menagerie of animals. Together with his friends Leany and Riddy\, they do what all young boys in the bush do: make their own fun. From chooks in outhouses\, exploding trees and rats at the flicks to standing up to backyard bullies\, farewelling dear friends and making unexpected new ones\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories traverses the passing of time\, documenting a life well lived and fondly remembered. Laced with dry humour and typical understated Australian cadence\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories invites readers to look back at life in a time gone by and delight in the charming stories of author Geoff Carr. \n \n \n \n ReviewsDickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories is unlike anything I’ve read before. It feels like a eulogy – not a sombre one\, but more in the way you might catch up with friends from years gone\, with a beer in hand\, and swap stories and laughter and tears. It’s filled with absurdity\, heartbreak\, humour and a quiet reverence that never quite leaves\, even long after you’ve finished reading it. These aren’t just stories; they’re lived-in moments\, softened by age and nostalgia and celebratory for the joy of having truly known someone. Among that\, Carr gives us – the reader – something precious: the gift of sharing. These are no longer just his memories – they’re ours. And in that act of sharing\, the people and characters and souls and memories tied up within these stories live on. They continue to exist beside him and now\, beside us. Stephanie\, ARC Reviewer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the speaker \n \n \n Geoff Carr\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Geoff Carr is a Ballarat-based author of short stories inspired by his childhood. He grew up in the Wimmera town of Stawell and cherished his caring and loving upbringing enveloped in the blue silhouettes of the famous Grampians and lesser- known Black Ranges. This was the setting before commencing his teaching career and settling in Ballarat for over fifty years. Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin; Other Stories is a collection of short stories that presents a sentimental portrait of boyhood and bush life told through Carr’s quintessentially Australian humour and country charm. ‘This is a book of memories. I want people to be transported back in time where thosenostalgic memories can be reignited\,’ Carr said. Early readers have praised this collection as both a tribute and a celebration\, “like catching up with old friends\, swapping stories\, laughter and tears.” The standout piece\, Through Coloured Windows explores grief with striking tenderness\, while the book’s namesake\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin is celebration as “one-of-a-kind\, laugh-your-ass-off funny!” \n \n \n \n \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 will be supported by Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $13 per person plus booking fee\, general admission | $9 for BMI members plus booking fee. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/seedpod-oubliette-session-2/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Artist in Residence,Australian Heritage Festival,Theatre Production ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/oubliette-sq-promo-v2.webp ORGANIZER;CN="Punctum":MAILTO:hq@punctum.com.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250510T143000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250510T160000 DTSTAMP:20260614T035204 CREATED:20250320T034846Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250430T042629Z UID:63030-1746887400-1746892800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:The Amazing Lucas Girls by acclaimed playwright Cate Whittaker - Session 2 DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat – Nostalgic memories of Stawell & Ballarat – 1950s and 1960s \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n5:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n6:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$9 – $13 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Geoff Carr\, author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Spike is a young boy in 1950s Australia\, surrounded by sprawling landscapesand a menagerie of animals. Together with his friends Leany and Riddy\, they do what all young boys in the bush do: make their own fun. From chooks in outhouses\, exploding trees and rats at the flicks to standing up to backyard bullies\, farewelling dear friends and making unexpected new ones\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories traverses the passing of time\, documenting a life well lived and fondly remembered. Laced with dry humour and typical understated Australian cadence\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories invites readers to look back at life in a time gone by and delight in the charming stories of author Geoff Carr. \n \n \n \n ReviewsDickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories is unlike anything I’ve read before. It feels like a eulogy – not a sombre one\, but more in the way you might catch up with friends from years gone\, with a beer in hand\, and swap stories and laughter and tears. It’s filled with absurdity\, heartbreak\, humour and a quiet reverence that never quite leaves\, even long after you’ve finished reading it. These aren’t just stories; they’re lived-in moments\, softened by age and nostalgia and celebratory for the joy of having truly known someone. Among that\, Carr gives us – the reader – something precious: the gift of sharing. These are no longer just his memories – they’re ours. And in that act of sharing\, the people and characters and souls and memories tied up within these stories live on. They continue to exist beside him and now\, beside us. Stephanie\, ARC Reviewer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the speaker \n \n \n Geoff Carr\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Geoff Carr is a Ballarat-based author of short stories inspired by his childhood. He grew up in the Wimmera town of Stawell and cherished his caring and loving upbringing enveloped in the blue silhouettes of the famous Grampians and lesser- known Black Ranges. This was the setting before commencing his teaching career and settling in Ballarat for over fifty years. Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin; Other Stories is a collection of short stories that presents a sentimental portrait of boyhood and bush life told through Carr’s quintessentially Australian humour and country charm. ‘This is a book of memories. I want people to be transported back in time where thosenostalgic memories can be reignited\,’ Carr said. Early readers have praised this collection as both a tribute and a celebration\, “like catching up with old friends\, swapping stories\, laughter and tears.” The standout piece\, Through Coloured Windows explores grief with striking tenderness\, while the book’s namesake\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin is celebration as “one-of-a-kind\, laugh-your-ass-off funny!” \n \n \n \n \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 will be supported by Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $13 per person plus booking fee\, general admission | $9 for BMI members plus booking fee. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/the-amazing-lucas-girls-2/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Australian Heritage Festival,Theatre Production ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/A-Hs-LG-hero320-promo-square.webp ORGANIZER;CN="Lost Voices":MAILTO:lostvoicesnsw.au@gmail.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250510T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250510T210000 DTSTAMP:20260614T035204 CREATED:20250320T035214Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250430T042820Z UID:63032-1746905400-1746910800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:The Amazing Lucas Girls by acclaimed playwright Cate Whittaker - Session 3 DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat – Nostalgic memories of Stawell & Ballarat – 1950s and 1960s \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n5:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n6:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$9 – $13 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Geoff Carr\, author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Spike is a young boy in 1950s Australia\, surrounded by sprawling landscapesand a menagerie of animals. Together with his friends Leany and Riddy\, they do what all young boys in the bush do: make their own fun. From chooks in outhouses\, exploding trees and rats at the flicks to standing up to backyard bullies\, farewelling dear friends and making unexpected new ones\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories traverses the passing of time\, documenting a life well lived and fondly remembered. Laced with dry humour and typical understated Australian cadence\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories invites readers to look back at life in a time gone by and delight in the charming stories of author Geoff Carr. \n \n \n \n ReviewsDickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories is unlike anything I’ve read before. It feels like a eulogy – not a sombre one\, but more in the way you might catch up with friends from years gone\, with a beer in hand\, and swap stories and laughter and tears. It’s filled with absurdity\, heartbreak\, humour and a quiet reverence that never quite leaves\, even long after you’ve finished reading it. These aren’t just stories; they’re lived-in moments\, softened by age and nostalgia and celebratory for the joy of having truly known someone. Among that\, Carr gives us – the reader – something precious: the gift of sharing. These are no longer just his memories – they’re ours. And in that act of sharing\, the people and characters and souls and memories tied up within these stories live on. They continue to exist beside him and now\, beside us. Stephanie\, ARC Reviewer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the speaker \n \n \n Geoff Carr\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Geoff Carr is a Ballarat-based author of short stories inspired by his childhood. He grew up in the Wimmera town of Stawell and cherished his caring and loving upbringing enveloped in the blue silhouettes of the famous Grampians and lesser- known Black Ranges. This was the setting before commencing his teaching career and settling in Ballarat for over fifty years. Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin; Other Stories is a collection of short stories that presents a sentimental portrait of boyhood and bush life told through Carr’s quintessentially Australian humour and country charm. ‘This is a book of memories. I want people to be transported back in time where thosenostalgic memories can be reignited\,’ Carr said. Early readers have praised this collection as both a tribute and a celebration\, “like catching up with old friends\, swapping stories\, laughter and tears.” The standout piece\, Through Coloured Windows explores grief with striking tenderness\, while the book’s namesake\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin is celebration as “one-of-a-kind\, laugh-your-ass-off funny!” \n \n \n \n \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 will be supported by Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $13 per person plus booking fee\, general admission | $9 for BMI members plus booking fee. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/the-amazing-lucas-girls-3/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Australian Heritage Festival,Theatre,Theatre Production ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/A-Hs-LG-hero320-promo-square.webp ORGANIZER;CN="Lost Voices":MAILTO:lostvoicesnsw.au@gmail.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250514T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250514T193000 DTSTAMP:20260614T035204 CREATED:20250304T015324Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250321T024750Z UID:62426-1747245600-1747251000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with Darcy Tindale DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat – Nostalgic memories of Stawell & Ballarat – 1950s and 1960s \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n5:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n6:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$9 – $13 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Geoff Carr\, author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Spike is a young boy in 1950s Australia\, surrounded by sprawling landscapesand a menagerie of animals. Together with his friends Leany and Riddy\, they do what all young boys in the bush do: make their own fun. From chooks in outhouses\, exploding trees and rats at the flicks to standing up to backyard bullies\, farewelling dear friends and making unexpected new ones\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories traverses the passing of time\, documenting a life well lived and fondly remembered. Laced with dry humour and typical understated Australian cadence\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories invites readers to look back at life in a time gone by and delight in the charming stories of author Geoff Carr. \n \n \n \n ReviewsDickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories is unlike anything I’ve read before. It feels like a eulogy – not a sombre one\, but more in the way you might catch up with friends from years gone\, with a beer in hand\, and swap stories and laughter and tears. It’s filled with absurdity\, heartbreak\, humour and a quiet reverence that never quite leaves\, even long after you’ve finished reading it. These aren’t just stories; they’re lived-in moments\, softened by age and nostalgia and celebratory for the joy of having truly known someone. Among that\, Carr gives us – the reader – something precious: the gift of sharing. These are no longer just his memories – they’re ours. And in that act of sharing\, the people and characters and souls and memories tied up within these stories live on. They continue to exist beside him and now\, beside us. Stephanie\, ARC Reviewer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the speaker \n \n \n Geoff Carr\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Geoff Carr is a Ballarat-based author of short stories inspired by his childhood. He grew up in the Wimmera town of Stawell and cherished his caring and loving upbringing enveloped in the blue silhouettes of the famous Grampians and lesser- known Black Ranges. This was the setting before commencing his teaching career and settling in Ballarat for over fifty years. Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin; Other Stories is a collection of short stories that presents a sentimental portrait of boyhood and bush life told through Carr’s quintessentially Australian humour and country charm. ‘This is a book of memories. I want people to be transported back in time where thosenostalgic memories can be reignited\,’ Carr said. Early readers have praised this collection as both a tribute and a celebration\, “like catching up with old friends\, swapping stories\, laughter and tears.” The standout piece\, Through Coloured Windows explores grief with striking tenderness\, while the book’s namesake\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin is celebration as “one-of-a-kind\, laugh-your-ass-off funny!” \n \n \n \n \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 will be supported by Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $13 per person plus booking fee\, general admission | $9 for BMI members plus booking fee. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/darcy-tindale/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Fundraiser,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/darcy-tindale-sq-promp.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250514T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250514T200000 DTSTAMP:20260614T035204 CREATED:20250211T002910Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250408T022228Z UID:61905-1747249200-1747252800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Kadampa Meditation Series | Find Your Flow: A Buddhist Guide to an Effortless Life DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat – Nostalgic memories of Stawell & Ballarat – 1950s and 1960s \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n5:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n6:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$9 – $13 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Geoff Carr\, author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Spike is a young boy in 1950s Australia\, surrounded by sprawling landscapesand a menagerie of animals. Together with his friends Leany and Riddy\, they do what all young boys in the bush do: make their own fun. From chooks in outhouses\, exploding trees and rats at the flicks to standing up to backyard bullies\, farewelling dear friends and making unexpected new ones\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories traverses the passing of time\, documenting a life well lived and fondly remembered. Laced with dry humour and typical understated Australian cadence\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories invites readers to look back at life in a time gone by and delight in the charming stories of author Geoff Carr. \n \n \n \n ReviewsDickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories is unlike anything I’ve read before. It feels like a eulogy – not a sombre one\, but more in the way you might catch up with friends from years gone\, with a beer in hand\, and swap stories and laughter and tears. It’s filled with absurdity\, heartbreak\, humour and a quiet reverence that never quite leaves\, even long after you’ve finished reading it. These aren’t just stories; they’re lived-in moments\, softened by age and nostalgia and celebratory for the joy of having truly known someone. Among that\, Carr gives us – the reader – something precious: the gift of sharing. These are no longer just his memories – they’re ours. And in that act of sharing\, the people and characters and souls and memories tied up within these stories live on. They continue to exist beside him and now\, beside us. Stephanie\, ARC Reviewer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the speaker \n \n \n Geoff Carr\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Geoff Carr is a Ballarat-based author of short stories inspired by his childhood. He grew up in the Wimmera town of Stawell and cherished his caring and loving upbringing enveloped in the blue silhouettes of the famous Grampians and lesser- known Black Ranges. This was the setting before commencing his teaching career and settling in Ballarat for over fifty years. Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin; Other Stories is a collection of short stories that presents a sentimental portrait of boyhood and bush life told through Carr’s quintessentially Australian humour and country charm. ‘This is a book of memories. I want people to be transported back in time where thosenostalgic memories can be reignited\,’ Carr said. Early readers have praised this collection as both a tribute and a celebration\, “like catching up with old friends\, swapping stories\, laughter and tears.” The standout piece\, Through Coloured Windows explores grief with striking tenderness\, while the book’s namesake\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin is celebration as “one-of-a-kind\, laugh-your-ass-off funny!” \n \n \n \n \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 will be supported by Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $13 per person plus booking fee\, general admission | $9 for BMI members plus booking fee. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/kadampa-meditation-series-14-may-25/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:kadampa ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/square-promo3.webp ORGANIZER;CN="Kadampa Meditation":MAILTO:info@kadampa.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250516T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250516T203000 DTSTAMP:20260614T035204 CREATED:20250210T002600Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250515T222312Z UID:61825-1747423800-1747427400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Minerva's Secrets | Night Tour\, Ballarat Heritage Festival - NOW FULLY BOOKED DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat – Nostalgic memories of Stawell & Ballarat – 1950s and 1960s \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n5:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n6:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$9 – $13 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Geoff Carr\, author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Spike is a young boy in 1950s Australia\, surrounded by sprawling landscapesand a menagerie of animals. Together with his friends Leany and Riddy\, they do what all young boys in the bush do: make their own fun. From chooks in outhouses\, exploding trees and rats at the flicks to standing up to backyard bullies\, farewelling dear friends and making unexpected new ones\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories traverses the passing of time\, documenting a life well lived and fondly remembered. Laced with dry humour and typical understated Australian cadence\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories invites readers to look back at life in a time gone by and delight in the charming stories of author Geoff Carr. \n \n \n \n ReviewsDickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories is unlike anything I’ve read before. It feels like a eulogy – not a sombre one\, but more in the way you might catch up with friends from years gone\, with a beer in hand\, and swap stories and laughter and tears. It’s filled with absurdity\, heartbreak\, humour and a quiet reverence that never quite leaves\, even long after you’ve finished reading it. These aren’t just stories; they’re lived-in moments\, softened by age and nostalgia and celebratory for the joy of having truly known someone. Among that\, Carr gives us – the reader – something precious: the gift of sharing. These are no longer just his memories – they’re ours. And in that act of sharing\, the people and characters and souls and memories tied up within these stories live on. They continue to exist beside him and now\, beside us. Stephanie\, ARC Reviewer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the speaker \n \n \n Geoff Carr\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Geoff Carr is a Ballarat-based author of short stories inspired by his childhood. He grew up in the Wimmera town of Stawell and cherished his caring and loving upbringing enveloped in the blue silhouettes of the famous Grampians and lesser- known Black Ranges. This was the setting before commencing his teaching career and settling in Ballarat for over fifty years. Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin; Other Stories is a collection of short stories that presents a sentimental portrait of boyhood and bush life told through Carr’s quintessentially Australian humour and country charm. ‘This is a book of memories. I want people to be transported back in time where thosenostalgic memories can be reignited\,’ Carr said. Early readers have praised this collection as both a tribute and a celebration\, “like catching up with old friends\, swapping stories\, laughter and tears.” The standout piece\, Through Coloured Windows explores grief with striking tenderness\, while the book’s namesake\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin is celebration as “one-of-a-kind\, laugh-your-ass-off funny!” \n \n \n \n \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 will be supported by Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $13 per person plus booking fee\, general admission | $9 for BMI members plus booking fee. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/minervas-secrets-night-tours-bhf-16-may-1/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Ballarat Heritage Festival,Fundraiser,Important Dates,Night 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:20250516T213000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250516T223000 DTSTAMP:20260614T035204 CREATED:20250210T001340Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250515T222405Z UID:61817-1747431000-1747434600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Minerva's Secrets | Night Tour\, Ballarat Heritage Festival - NOW FULLY BOOKED DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat – Nostalgic memories of Stawell & Ballarat – 1950s and 1960s \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n5:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n6:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$9 – $13 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Geoff Carr\, author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Spike is a young boy in 1950s Australia\, surrounded by sprawling landscapesand a menagerie of animals. Together with his friends Leany and Riddy\, they do what all young boys in the bush do: make their own fun. From chooks in outhouses\, exploding trees and rats at the flicks to standing up to backyard bullies\, farewelling dear friends and making unexpected new ones\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories traverses the passing of time\, documenting a life well lived and fondly remembered. Laced with dry humour and typical understated Australian cadence\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories invites readers to look back at life in a time gone by and delight in the charming stories of author Geoff Carr. \n \n \n \n ReviewsDickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories is unlike anything I’ve read before. It feels like a eulogy – not a sombre one\, but more in the way you might catch up with friends from years gone\, with a beer in hand\, and swap stories and laughter and tears. It’s filled with absurdity\, heartbreak\, humour and a quiet reverence that never quite leaves\, even long after you’ve finished reading it. These aren’t just stories; they’re lived-in moments\, softened by age and nostalgia and celebratory for the joy of having truly known someone. Among that\, Carr gives us – the reader – something precious: the gift of sharing. These are no longer just his memories – they’re ours. And in that act of sharing\, the people and characters and souls and memories tied up within these stories live on. They continue to exist beside him and now\, beside us. Stephanie\, ARC Reviewer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the speaker \n \n \n Geoff Carr\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Geoff Carr is a Ballarat-based author of short stories inspired by his childhood. He grew up in the Wimmera town of Stawell and cherished his caring and loving upbringing enveloped in the blue silhouettes of the famous Grampians and lesser- known Black Ranges. This was the setting before commencing his teaching career and settling in Ballarat for over fifty years. Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin; Other Stories is a collection of short stories that presents a sentimental portrait of boyhood and bush life told through Carr’s quintessentially Australian humour and country charm. ‘This is a book of memories. I want people to be transported back in time where thosenostalgic memories can be reignited\,’ Carr said. Early readers have praised this collection as both a tribute and a celebration\, “like catching up with old friends\, swapping stories\, laughter and tears.” The standout piece\, Through Coloured Windows explores grief with striking tenderness\, while the book’s namesake\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin is celebration as “one-of-a-kind\, laugh-your-ass-off funny!” \n \n \n \n \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 will be supported by Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $13 per person plus booking fee\, general admission | $9 for BMI members plus booking fee. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/minervas-secrets-night-tours-bhf-16-may-2/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Ballarat Heritage Festival,Fundraiser,Important Dates,Night 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:20250517T183000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250517T230000 DTSTAMP:20260614T035204 CREATED:20250114T223422Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250508T064422Z UID:61199-1747506600-1747522800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Dame Nellie Melba Birthday Dinner - This event has now been CANCELLED. DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat – Nostalgic memories of Stawell & Ballarat – 1950s and 1960s \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n5:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n6:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$9 – $13 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Geoff Carr\, author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Spike is a young boy in 1950s Australia\, surrounded by sprawling landscapesand a menagerie of animals. Together with his friends Leany and Riddy\, they do what all young boys in the bush do: make their own fun. From chooks in outhouses\, exploding trees and rats at the flicks to standing up to backyard bullies\, farewelling dear friends and making unexpected new ones\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories traverses the passing of time\, documenting a life well lived and fondly remembered. Laced with dry humour and typical understated Australian cadence\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories invites readers to look back at life in a time gone by and delight in the charming stories of author Geoff Carr. \n \n \n \n ReviewsDickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories is unlike anything I’ve read before. It feels like a eulogy – not a sombre one\, but more in the way you might catch up with friends from years gone\, with a beer in hand\, and swap stories and laughter and tears. It’s filled with absurdity\, heartbreak\, humour and a quiet reverence that never quite leaves\, even long after you’ve finished reading it. These aren’t just stories; they’re lived-in moments\, softened by age and nostalgia and celebratory for the joy of having truly known someone. Among that\, Carr gives us – the reader – something precious: the gift of sharing. These are no longer just his memories – they’re ours. And in that act of sharing\, the people and characters and souls and memories tied up within these stories live on. They continue to exist beside him and now\, beside us. Stephanie\, ARC Reviewer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the speaker \n \n \n Geoff Carr\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Geoff Carr is a Ballarat-based author of short stories inspired by his childhood. He grew up in the Wimmera town of Stawell and cherished his caring and loving upbringing enveloped in the blue silhouettes of the famous Grampians and lesser- known Black Ranges. This was the setting before commencing his teaching career and settling in Ballarat for over fifty years. Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin; Other Stories is a collection of short stories that presents a sentimental portrait of boyhood and bush life told through Carr’s quintessentially Australian humour and country charm. ‘This is a book of memories. I want people to be transported back in time where thosenostalgic memories can be reignited\,’ Carr said. Early readers have praised this collection as both a tribute and a celebration\, “like catching up with old friends\, swapping stories\, laughter and tears.” The standout piece\, Through Coloured Windows explores grief with striking tenderness\, while the book’s namesake\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin is celebration as “one-of-a-kind\, laugh-your-ass-off funny!” \n \n \n \n \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 will be supported by Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $13 per person plus booking fee\, general admission | $9 for BMI members plus booking fee. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/melba-opera-trust-dinner/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Art programs,Australian Heritage Festival,Ballarat Heritage Festival,Important Dates,Live Music,Theatre Production ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/about-dame-nellie-melba.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250518T140000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250518T160000 DTSTAMP:20260614T035204 CREATED:20250114T215837Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250515T060728Z UID:61189-1747576800-1747584000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Dame Nellie Melba Celebration Performance DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat – Nostalgic memories of Stawell & Ballarat – 1950s and 1960s \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n5:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n6:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$9 – $13 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Geoff Carr\, author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Spike is a young boy in 1950s Australia\, surrounded by sprawling landscapesand a menagerie of animals. Together with his friends Leany and Riddy\, they do what all young boys in the bush do: make their own fun. From chooks in outhouses\, exploding trees and rats at the flicks to standing up to backyard bullies\, farewelling dear friends and making unexpected new ones\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories traverses the passing of time\, documenting a life well lived and fondly remembered. Laced with dry humour and typical understated Australian cadence\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories invites readers to look back at life in a time gone by and delight in the charming stories of author Geoff Carr. \n \n \n \n ReviewsDickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories is unlike anything I’ve read before. It feels like a eulogy – not a sombre one\, but more in the way you might catch up with friends from years gone\, with a beer in hand\, and swap stories and laughter and tears. It’s filled with absurdity\, heartbreak\, humour and a quiet reverence that never quite leaves\, even long after you’ve finished reading it. These aren’t just stories; they’re lived-in moments\, softened by age and nostalgia and celebratory for the joy of having truly known someone. Among that\, Carr gives us – the reader – something precious: the gift of sharing. These are no longer just his memories – they’re ours. And in that act of sharing\, the people and characters and souls and memories tied up within these stories live on. They continue to exist beside him and now\, beside us. Stephanie\, ARC Reviewer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the speaker \n \n \n Geoff Carr\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Geoff Carr is a Ballarat-based author of short stories inspired by his childhood. He grew up in the Wimmera town of Stawell and cherished his caring and loving upbringing enveloped in the blue silhouettes of the famous Grampians and lesser- known Black Ranges. This was the setting before commencing his teaching career and settling in Ballarat for over fifty years. Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin; Other Stories is a collection of short stories that presents a sentimental portrait of boyhood and bush life told through Carr’s quintessentially Australian humour and country charm. ‘This is a book of memories. I want people to be transported back in time where thosenostalgic memories can be reignited\,’ Carr said. Early readers have praised this collection as both a tribute and a celebration\, “like catching up with old friends\, swapping stories\, laughter and tears.” The standout piece\, Through Coloured Windows explores grief with striking tenderness\, while the book’s namesake\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin is celebration as “one-of-a-kind\, laugh-your-ass-off funny!” \n \n \n \n \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 will be supported by Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $13 per person plus booking fee\, general admission | $9 for BMI members plus booking fee. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/melba-opera-trust/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Art programs,Australian Heritage Festival,Ballarat Heritage Festival,Classical Music,Important Dates,Live Music,Theatre Production ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/mot-performance-promo-sq.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250518T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250518T203000 DTSTAMP:20260614T035204 CREATED:20250210T002829Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250515T223444Z UID:61827-1747596600-1747600200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Minerva's Secrets | Night Tour\, Ballarat Heritage Festival DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat – Nostalgic memories of Stawell & Ballarat – 1950s and 1960s \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n5:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n6:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$9 – $13 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Geoff Carr\, author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Spike is a young boy in 1950s Australia\, surrounded by sprawling landscapesand a menagerie of animals. Together with his friends Leany and Riddy\, they do what all young boys in the bush do: make their own fun. From chooks in outhouses\, exploding trees and rats at the flicks to standing up to backyard bullies\, farewelling dear friends and making unexpected new ones\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories traverses the passing of time\, documenting a life well lived and fondly remembered. Laced with dry humour and typical understated Australian cadence\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories invites readers to look back at life in a time gone by and delight in the charming stories of author Geoff Carr. \n \n \n \n ReviewsDickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories is unlike anything I’ve read before. It feels like a eulogy – not a sombre one\, but more in the way you might catch up with friends from years gone\, with a beer in hand\, and swap stories and laughter and tears. It’s filled with absurdity\, heartbreak\, humour and a quiet reverence that never quite leaves\, even long after you’ve finished reading it. These aren’t just stories; they’re lived-in moments\, softened by age and nostalgia and celebratory for the joy of having truly known someone. Among that\, Carr gives us – the reader – something precious: the gift of sharing. These are no longer just his memories – they’re ours. And in that act of sharing\, the people and characters and souls and memories tied up within these stories live on. They continue to exist beside him and now\, beside us. Stephanie\, ARC Reviewer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the speaker \n \n \n Geoff Carr\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Geoff Carr is a Ballarat-based author of short stories inspired by his childhood. He grew up in the Wimmera town of Stawell and cherished his caring and loving upbringing enveloped in the blue silhouettes of the famous Grampians and lesser- known Black Ranges. This was the setting before commencing his teaching career and settling in Ballarat for over fifty years. Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin; Other Stories is a collection of short stories that presents a sentimental portrait of boyhood and bush life told through Carr’s quintessentially Australian humour and country charm. ‘This is a book of memories. I want people to be transported back in time where thosenostalgic memories can be reignited\,’ Carr said. Early readers have praised this collection as both a tribute and a celebration\, “like catching up with old friends\, swapping stories\, laughter and tears.” The standout piece\, Through Coloured Windows explores grief with striking tenderness\, while the book’s namesake\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin is celebration as “one-of-a-kind\, laugh-your-ass-off funny!” \n \n \n \n \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 will be supported by Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $13 per person plus booking fee\, general admission | $9 for BMI members plus booking fee. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/minervas-secrets-night-tours-bhf-18-may-1/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Ballarat Heritage Festival,Fundraiser,Important Dates,Night 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:20250518T213000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250518T223000 DTSTAMP:20260614T035204 CREATED:20250210T012647Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250423T003042Z UID:61846-1747603800-1747607400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Minerva's Secrets | Night Tour\, Ballarat Heritage Festival DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat – Nostalgic memories of Stawell & Ballarat – 1950s and 1960s \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n5:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n6:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$9 – $13 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Geoff Carr\, author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Spike is a young boy in 1950s Australia\, surrounded by sprawling landscapesand a menagerie of animals. Together with his friends Leany and Riddy\, they do what all young boys in the bush do: make their own fun. From chooks in outhouses\, exploding trees and rats at the flicks to standing up to backyard bullies\, farewelling dear friends and making unexpected new ones\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories traverses the passing of time\, documenting a life well lived and fondly remembered. Laced with dry humour and typical understated Australian cadence\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories invites readers to look back at life in a time gone by and delight in the charming stories of author Geoff Carr. \n \n \n \n ReviewsDickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories is unlike anything I’ve read before. It feels like a eulogy – not a sombre one\, but more in the way you might catch up with friends from years gone\, with a beer in hand\, and swap stories and laughter and tears. It’s filled with absurdity\, heartbreak\, humour and a quiet reverence that never quite leaves\, even long after you’ve finished reading it. These aren’t just stories; they’re lived-in moments\, softened by age and nostalgia and celebratory for the joy of having truly known someone. Among that\, Carr gives us – the reader – something precious: the gift of sharing. These are no longer just his memories – they’re ours. And in that act of sharing\, the people and characters and souls and memories tied up within these stories live on. They continue to exist beside him and now\, beside us. Stephanie\, ARC Reviewer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the speaker \n \n \n Geoff Carr\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Geoff Carr is a Ballarat-based author of short stories inspired by his childhood. He grew up in the Wimmera town of Stawell and cherished his caring and loving upbringing enveloped in the blue silhouettes of the famous Grampians and lesser- known Black Ranges. This was the setting before commencing his teaching career and settling in Ballarat for over fifty years. Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin; Other Stories is a collection of short stories that presents a sentimental portrait of boyhood and bush life told through Carr’s quintessentially Australian humour and country charm. ‘This is a book of memories. I want people to be transported back in time where thosenostalgic memories can be reignited\,’ Carr said. Early readers have praised this collection as both a tribute and a celebration\, “like catching up with old friends\, swapping stories\, laughter and tears.” The standout piece\, Through Coloured Windows explores grief with striking tenderness\, while the book’s namesake\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin is celebration as “one-of-a-kind\, laugh-your-ass-off funny!” \n \n \n \n \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 will be supported by Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $13 per person plus booking fee\, general admission | $9 for BMI members plus booking fee. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/minervas-secrets-night-tours-bhf-18-may-2/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Ballarat Heritage Festival,Fundraiser,Important Dates,Night 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:20250520T110000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250520T120000 DTSTAMP:20260614T035204 CREATED:20250317T030244Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250321T070405Z UID:62929-1747738800-1747742400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Day Tours of the Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute | Ballarat Heritage Festival | Tour 1 DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat – Nostalgic memories of Stawell & Ballarat – 1950s and 1960s \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n5:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n6:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$9 – $13 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Geoff Carr\, author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Spike is a young boy in 1950s Australia\, surrounded by sprawling landscapesand a menagerie of animals. Together with his friends Leany and Riddy\, they do what all young boys in the bush do: make their own fun. From chooks in outhouses\, exploding trees and rats at the flicks to standing up to backyard bullies\, farewelling dear friends and making unexpected new ones\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories traverses the passing of time\, documenting a life well lived and fondly remembered. Laced with dry humour and typical understated Australian cadence\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories invites readers to look back at life in a time gone by and delight in the charming stories of author Geoff Carr. \n \n \n \n ReviewsDickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories is unlike anything I’ve read before. It feels like a eulogy – not a sombre one\, but more in the way you might catch up with friends from years gone\, with a beer in hand\, and swap stories and laughter and tears. It’s filled with absurdity\, heartbreak\, humour and a quiet reverence that never quite leaves\, even long after you’ve finished reading it. These aren’t just stories; they’re lived-in moments\, softened by age and nostalgia and celebratory for the joy of having truly known someone. Among that\, Carr gives us – the reader – something precious: the gift of sharing. These are no longer just his memories – they’re ours. And in that act of sharing\, the people and characters and souls and memories tied up within these stories live on. They continue to exist beside him and now\, beside us. Stephanie\, ARC Reviewer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the speaker \n \n \n Geoff Carr\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Geoff Carr is a Ballarat-based author of short stories inspired by his childhood. He grew up in the Wimmera town of Stawell and cherished his caring and loving upbringing enveloped in the blue silhouettes of the famous Grampians and lesser- known Black Ranges. This was the setting before commencing his teaching career and settling in Ballarat for over fifty years. Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin; Other Stories is a collection of short stories that presents a sentimental portrait of boyhood and bush life told through Carr’s quintessentially Australian humour and country charm. ‘This is a book of memories. I want people to be transported back in time where thosenostalgic memories can be reignited\,’ Carr said. Early readers have praised this collection as both a tribute and a celebration\, “like catching up with old friends\, swapping stories\, laughter and tears.” The standout piece\, Through Coloured Windows explores grief with striking tenderness\, while the book’s namesake\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin is celebration as “one-of-a-kind\, laugh-your-ass-off funny!” \n \n \n \n \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 will be supported by Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $13 per person plus booking fee\, general admission | $9 for BMI members plus booking fee. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/day-tours-ballarat-heritage-fest-1/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Ballarat Heritage Festival,Festival,Fundraiser,Important Dates,Tours ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/BMI-woodcut_bags-low-res-1kb-e1703024949185.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250520T140000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250520T150000 DTSTAMP:20260614T035204 CREATED:20250113T050453Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250321T070422Z UID:61152-1747749600-1747753200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Day Tours of the Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute | Ballarat Heritage Festival | Tour 2 DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat – Nostalgic memories of Stawell & Ballarat – 1950s and 1960s \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n5:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n6:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$9 – $13 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Geoff Carr\, author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Spike is a young boy in 1950s Australia\, surrounded by sprawling landscapesand a menagerie of animals. Together with his friends Leany and Riddy\, they do what all young boys in the bush do: make their own fun. From chooks in outhouses\, exploding trees and rats at the flicks to standing up to backyard bullies\, farewelling dear friends and making unexpected new ones\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories traverses the passing of time\, documenting a life well lived and fondly remembered. Laced with dry humour and typical understated Australian cadence\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories invites readers to look back at life in a time gone by and delight in the charming stories of author Geoff Carr. \n \n \n \n ReviewsDickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories is unlike anything I’ve read before. It feels like a eulogy – not a sombre one\, but more in the way you might catch up with friends from years gone\, with a beer in hand\, and swap stories and laughter and tears. It’s filled with absurdity\, heartbreak\, humour and a quiet reverence that never quite leaves\, even long after you’ve finished reading it. These aren’t just stories; they’re lived-in moments\, softened by age and nostalgia and celebratory for the joy of having truly known someone. Among that\, Carr gives us – the reader – something precious: the gift of sharing. These are no longer just his memories – they’re ours. And in that act of sharing\, the people and characters and souls and memories tied up within these stories live on. They continue to exist beside him and now\, beside us. Stephanie\, ARC Reviewer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the speaker \n \n \n Geoff Carr\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Geoff Carr is a Ballarat-based author of short stories inspired by his childhood. He grew up in the Wimmera town of Stawell and cherished his caring and loving upbringing enveloped in the blue silhouettes of the famous Grampians and lesser- known Black Ranges. This was the setting before commencing his teaching career and settling in Ballarat for over fifty years. Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin; Other Stories is a collection of short stories that presents a sentimental portrait of boyhood and bush life told through Carr’s quintessentially Australian humour and country charm. ‘This is a book of memories. I want people to be transported back in time where thosenostalgic memories can be reignited\,’ Carr said. Early readers have praised this collection as both a tribute and a celebration\, “like catching up with old friends\, swapping stories\, laughter and tears.” The standout piece\, Through Coloured Windows explores grief with striking tenderness\, while the book’s namesake\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin is celebration as “one-of-a-kind\, laugh-your-ass-off funny!” \n \n \n \n \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 will be supported by Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $13 per person plus booking fee\, general admission | $9 for BMI members plus booking fee. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/day-tours-ballarat-heritage-fest/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Ballarat Heritage Festival,Festival,Fundraiser,Important Dates,Tours ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/BMI-woodcut_bags-low-res-1kb-e1703024949185.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250521T110000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250521T120000 DTSTAMP:20260614T035204 CREATED:20250317T031650Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250321T070359Z UID:62934-1747825200-1747828800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Day Tours of the Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute | Ballarat Heritage Festival | Tour 3 DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat – Nostalgic memories of Stawell & Ballarat – 1950s and 1960s \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n5:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n6:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$9 – $13 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Geoff Carr\, author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Spike is a young boy in 1950s Australia\, surrounded by sprawling landscapesand a menagerie of animals. Together with his friends Leany and Riddy\, they do what all young boys in the bush do: make their own fun. From chooks in outhouses\, exploding trees and rats at the flicks to standing up to backyard bullies\, farewelling dear friends and making unexpected new ones\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories traverses the passing of time\, documenting a life well lived and fondly remembered. Laced with dry humour and typical understated Australian cadence\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories invites readers to look back at life in a time gone by and delight in the charming stories of author Geoff Carr. \n \n \n \n ReviewsDickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories is unlike anything I’ve read before. It feels like a eulogy – not a sombre one\, but more in the way you might catch up with friends from years gone\, with a beer in hand\, and swap stories and laughter and tears. It’s filled with absurdity\, heartbreak\, humour and a quiet reverence that never quite leaves\, even long after you’ve finished reading it. These aren’t just stories; they’re lived-in moments\, softened by age and nostalgia and celebratory for the joy of having truly known someone. Among that\, Carr gives us – the reader – something precious: the gift of sharing. These are no longer just his memories – they’re ours. And in that act of sharing\, the people and characters and souls and memories tied up within these stories live on. They continue to exist beside him and now\, beside us. Stephanie\, ARC Reviewer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the speaker \n \n \n Geoff Carr\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Geoff Carr is a Ballarat-based author of short stories inspired by his childhood. He grew up in the Wimmera town of Stawell and cherished his caring and loving upbringing enveloped in the blue silhouettes of the famous Grampians and lesser- known Black Ranges. This was the setting before commencing his teaching career and settling in Ballarat for over fifty years. Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin; Other Stories is a collection of short stories that presents a sentimental portrait of boyhood and bush life told through Carr’s quintessentially Australian humour and country charm. ‘This is a book of memories. I want people to be transported back in time where thosenostalgic memories can be reignited\,’ Carr said. Early readers have praised this collection as both a tribute and a celebration\, “like catching up with old friends\, swapping stories\, laughter and tears.” The standout piece\, Through Coloured Windows explores grief with striking tenderness\, while the book’s namesake\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin is celebration as “one-of-a-kind\, laugh-your-ass-off funny!” \n \n \n \n \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 will be supported by Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $13 per person plus booking fee\, general admission | $9 for BMI members plus booking fee. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/day-tours-ballarat-heritage-fest-3/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Ballarat Heritage Festival,Festival,Fundraiser,Important Dates,Tours ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/BMI-woodcut_bags-low-res-1kb-e1703024949185.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250521T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250521T200000 DTSTAMP:20260614T035204 CREATED:20250408T020418Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250408T022213Z UID:64321-1747854000-1747857600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Kadampa Meditation Series | Healthy Habits for A Happy Mind DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat – Nostalgic memories of Stawell & Ballarat – 1950s and 1960s \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n5:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n6:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$9 – $13 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Geoff Carr\, author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Spike is a young boy in 1950s Australia\, surrounded by sprawling landscapesand a menagerie of animals. Together with his friends Leany and Riddy\, they do what all young boys in the bush do: make their own fun. From chooks in outhouses\, exploding trees and rats at the flicks to standing up to backyard bullies\, farewelling dear friends and making unexpected new ones\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories traverses the passing of time\, documenting a life well lived and fondly remembered. Laced with dry humour and typical understated Australian cadence\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories invites readers to look back at life in a time gone by and delight in the charming stories of author Geoff Carr. \n \n \n \n ReviewsDickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories is unlike anything I’ve read before. It feels like a eulogy – not a sombre one\, but more in the way you might catch up with friends from years gone\, with a beer in hand\, and swap stories and laughter and tears. It’s filled with absurdity\, heartbreak\, humour and a quiet reverence that never quite leaves\, even long after you’ve finished reading it. These aren’t just stories; they’re lived-in moments\, softened by age and nostalgia and celebratory for the joy of having truly known someone. Among that\, Carr gives us – the reader – something precious: the gift of sharing. These are no longer just his memories – they’re ours. And in that act of sharing\, the people and characters and souls and memories tied up within these stories live on. They continue to exist beside him and now\, beside us. Stephanie\, ARC Reviewer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the speaker \n \n \n Geoff Carr\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Geoff Carr is a Ballarat-based author of short stories inspired by his childhood. He grew up in the Wimmera town of Stawell and cherished his caring and loving upbringing enveloped in the blue silhouettes of the famous Grampians and lesser- known Black Ranges. This was the setting before commencing his teaching career and settling in Ballarat for over fifty years. Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin; Other Stories is a collection of short stories that presents a sentimental portrait of boyhood and bush life told through Carr’s quintessentially Australian humour and country charm. ‘This is a book of memories. I want people to be transported back in time where thosenostalgic memories can be reignited\,’ Carr said. Early readers have praised this collection as both a tribute and a celebration\, “like catching up with old friends\, swapping stories\, laughter and tears.” The standout piece\, Through Coloured Windows explores grief with striking tenderness\, while the book’s namesake\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin is celebration as “one-of-a-kind\, laugh-your-ass-off funny!” \n \n \n \n \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 will be supported by Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $13 per person plus booking fee\, general admission | $9 for BMI members plus booking fee. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/kadampa-meditation-series-21-may/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:kadampa ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Healthy-Habits-square-promo.webp ORGANIZER;CN="Kadampa Meditation":MAILTO:info@kadampa.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250523T183000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250523T201500 DTSTAMP:20260614T035205 CREATED:20250409T021703Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250422T060122Z UID:64409-1748025000-1748031300@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:The Vegas 70 returns to Ballarat | Ballarat Heritage Festival | Blazing Saddles DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat – Nostalgic memories of Stawell & Ballarat – 1950s and 1960s \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n5:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n6:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$9 – $13 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Geoff Carr\, author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Spike is a young boy in 1950s Australia\, surrounded by sprawling landscapesand a menagerie of animals. Together with his friends Leany and Riddy\, they do what all young boys in the bush do: make their own fun. From chooks in outhouses\, exploding trees and rats at the flicks to standing up to backyard bullies\, farewelling dear friends and making unexpected new ones\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories traverses the passing of time\, documenting a life well lived and fondly remembered. Laced with dry humour and typical understated Australian cadence\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories invites readers to look back at life in a time gone by and delight in the charming stories of author Geoff Carr. \n \n \n \n ReviewsDickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories is unlike anything I’ve read before. It feels like a eulogy – not a sombre one\, but more in the way you might catch up with friends from years gone\, with a beer in hand\, and swap stories and laughter and tears. It’s filled with absurdity\, heartbreak\, humour and a quiet reverence that never quite leaves\, even long after you’ve finished reading it. These aren’t just stories; they’re lived-in moments\, softened by age and nostalgia and celebratory for the joy of having truly known someone. Among that\, Carr gives us – the reader – something precious: the gift of sharing. These are no longer just his memories – they’re ours. And in that act of sharing\, the people and characters and souls and memories tied up within these stories live on. They continue to exist beside him and now\, beside us. Stephanie\, ARC Reviewer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the speaker \n \n \n Geoff Carr\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Geoff Carr is a Ballarat-based author of short stories inspired by his childhood. He grew up in the Wimmera town of Stawell and cherished his caring and loving upbringing enveloped in the blue silhouettes of the famous Grampians and lesser- known Black Ranges. This was the setting before commencing his teaching career and settling in Ballarat for over fifty years. Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin; Other Stories is a collection of short stories that presents a sentimental portrait of boyhood and bush life told through Carr’s quintessentially Australian humour and country charm. ‘This is a book of memories. I want people to be transported back in time where thosenostalgic memories can be reignited\,’ Carr said. Early readers have praised this collection as both a tribute and a celebration\, “like catching up with old friends\, swapping stories\, laughter and tears.” The standout piece\, Through Coloured Windows explores grief with striking tenderness\, while the book’s namesake\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin is celebration as “one-of-a-kind\, laugh-your-ass-off funny!” \n \n \n \n \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 will be supported by Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $13 per person plus booking fee\, general admission | $9 for BMI members plus booking fee. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/vegas-70-blazing-saddles/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Ballarat Heritage Festival,Festival,Film,Fundraiser ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/blazing-saddles-sq-promo.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250523T203000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250523T224500 DTSTAMP:20260614T035205 CREATED:20250417T020931Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250422T060211Z UID:64570-1748032200-1748040300@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:The Vegas 70 returns to Ballarat | Ballarat Heritage Festival | Chinatown DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat – Nostalgic memories of Stawell & Ballarat – 1950s and 1960s \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n5:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n6:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$9 – $13 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Geoff Carr\, author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Spike is a young boy in 1950s Australia\, surrounded by sprawling landscapesand a menagerie of animals. Together with his friends Leany and Riddy\, they do what all young boys in the bush do: make their own fun. From chooks in outhouses\, exploding trees and rats at the flicks to standing up to backyard bullies\, farewelling dear friends and making unexpected new ones\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories traverses the passing of time\, documenting a life well lived and fondly remembered. Laced with dry humour and typical understated Australian cadence\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories invites readers to look back at life in a time gone by and delight in the charming stories of author Geoff Carr. \n \n \n \n ReviewsDickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories is unlike anything I’ve read before. It feels like a eulogy – not a sombre one\, but more in the way you might catch up with friends from years gone\, with a beer in hand\, and swap stories and laughter and tears. It’s filled with absurdity\, heartbreak\, humour and a quiet reverence that never quite leaves\, even long after you’ve finished reading it. These aren’t just stories; they’re lived-in moments\, softened by age and nostalgia and celebratory for the joy of having truly known someone. Among that\, Carr gives us – the reader – something precious: the gift of sharing. These are no longer just his memories – they’re ours. And in that act of sharing\, the people and characters and souls and memories tied up within these stories live on. They continue to exist beside him and now\, beside us. Stephanie\, ARC Reviewer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the speaker \n \n \n Geoff Carr\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Geoff Carr is a Ballarat-based author of short stories inspired by his childhood. He grew up in the Wimmera town of Stawell and cherished his caring and loving upbringing enveloped in the blue silhouettes of the famous Grampians and lesser- known Black Ranges. This was the setting before commencing his teaching career and settling in Ballarat for over fifty years. Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin; Other Stories is a collection of short stories that presents a sentimental portrait of boyhood and bush life told through Carr’s quintessentially Australian humour and country charm. ‘This is a book of memories. I want people to be transported back in time where thosenostalgic memories can be reignited\,’ Carr said. Early readers have praised this collection as both a tribute and a celebration\, “like catching up with old friends\, swapping stories\, laughter and tears.” The standout piece\, Through Coloured Windows explores grief with striking tenderness\, while the book’s namesake\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin is celebration as “one-of-a-kind\, laugh-your-ass-off funny!” \n \n \n \n \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 will be supported by Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $13 per person plus booking fee\, general admission | $9 for BMI members plus booking fee. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/vegas-70-chinatown/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Ballarat Heritage Festival,Festival,Film,Fundraiser ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/square-promos-chinatown2.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250524T100000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250524T110000 DTSTAMP:20260614T035205 CREATED:20250520T051053Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250522T034211Z UID:65020-1748080800-1748084400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Whispers from the Garden | In Partnership with Friends of Ballarat Botanical Gardens Inc. DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat – Nostalgic memories of Stawell & Ballarat – 1950s and 1960s \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n5:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n6:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$9 – $13 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Geoff Carr\, author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Spike is a young boy in 1950s Australia\, surrounded by sprawling landscapesand a menagerie of animals. Together with his friends Leany and Riddy\, they do what all young boys in the bush do: make their own fun. From chooks in outhouses\, exploding trees and rats at the flicks to standing up to backyard bullies\, farewelling dear friends and making unexpected new ones\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories traverses the passing of time\, documenting a life well lived and fondly remembered. Laced with dry humour and typical understated Australian cadence\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories invites readers to look back at life in a time gone by and delight in the charming stories of author Geoff Carr. \n \n \n \n ReviewsDickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories is unlike anything I’ve read before. It feels like a eulogy – not a sombre one\, but more in the way you might catch up with friends from years gone\, with a beer in hand\, and swap stories and laughter and tears. It’s filled with absurdity\, heartbreak\, humour and a quiet reverence that never quite leaves\, even long after you’ve finished reading it. These aren’t just stories; they’re lived-in moments\, softened by age and nostalgia and celebratory for the joy of having truly known someone. Among that\, Carr gives us – the reader – something precious: the gift of sharing. These are no longer just his memories – they’re ours. And in that act of sharing\, the people and characters and souls and memories tied up within these stories live on. They continue to exist beside him and now\, beside us. Stephanie\, ARC Reviewer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the speaker \n \n \n Geoff Carr\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Geoff Carr is a Ballarat-based author of short stories inspired by his childhood. He grew up in the Wimmera town of Stawell and cherished his caring and loving upbringing enveloped in the blue silhouettes of the famous Grampians and lesser- known Black Ranges. This was the setting before commencing his teaching career and settling in Ballarat for over fifty years. Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin; Other Stories is a collection of short stories that presents a sentimental portrait of boyhood and bush life told through Carr’s quintessentially Australian humour and country charm. ‘This is a book of memories. I want people to be transported back in time where thosenostalgic memories can be reignited\,’ Carr said. Early readers have praised this collection as both a tribute and a celebration\, “like catching up with old friends\, swapping stories\, laughter and tears.” The standout piece\, Through Coloured Windows explores grief with striking tenderness\, while the book’s namesake\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin is celebration as “one-of-a-kind\, laugh-your-ass-off funny!” \n \n \n \n \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 will be supported by Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $13 per person plus booking fee\, general admission | $9 for BMI members plus booking fee. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/whispers-from-the-garden/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Art programs,Ballarat Heritage Festival ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/sq-promo.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250524T100000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250524T122000 DTSTAMP:20260614T035205 CREATED:20250417T024436Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250507T035052Z UID:64583-1748080800-1748089200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:The Vegas 70 returns to Ballarat | Ballarat Heritage Festival | Mary Poppins DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat – Nostalgic memories of Stawell & Ballarat – 1950s and 1960s \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n5:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n6:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$9 – $13 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Geoff Carr\, author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Spike is a young boy in 1950s Australia\, surrounded by sprawling landscapesand a menagerie of animals. Together with his friends Leany and Riddy\, they do what all young boys in the bush do: make their own fun. From chooks in outhouses\, exploding trees and rats at the flicks to standing up to backyard bullies\, farewelling dear friends and making unexpected new ones\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories traverses the passing of time\, documenting a life well lived and fondly remembered. Laced with dry humour and typical understated Australian cadence\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories invites readers to look back at life in a time gone by and delight in the charming stories of author Geoff Carr. \n \n \n \n ReviewsDickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories is unlike anything I’ve read before. It feels like a eulogy – not a sombre one\, but more in the way you might catch up with friends from years gone\, with a beer in hand\, and swap stories and laughter and tears. It’s filled with absurdity\, heartbreak\, humour and a quiet reverence that never quite leaves\, even long after you’ve finished reading it. These aren’t just stories; they’re lived-in moments\, softened by age and nostalgia and celebratory for the joy of having truly known someone. Among that\, Carr gives us – the reader – something precious: the gift of sharing. These are no longer just his memories – they’re ours. And in that act of sharing\, the people and characters and souls and memories tied up within these stories live on. They continue to exist beside him and now\, beside us. Stephanie\, ARC Reviewer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the speaker \n \n \n Geoff Carr\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Geoff Carr is a Ballarat-based author of short stories inspired by his childhood. He grew up in the Wimmera town of Stawell and cherished his caring and loving upbringing enveloped in the blue silhouettes of the famous Grampians and lesser- known Black Ranges. This was the setting before commencing his teaching career and settling in Ballarat for over fifty years. Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin; Other Stories is a collection of short stories that presents a sentimental portrait of boyhood and bush life told through Carr’s quintessentially Australian humour and country charm. ‘This is a book of memories. I want people to be transported back in time where thosenostalgic memories can be reignited\,’ Carr said. Early readers have praised this collection as both a tribute and a celebration\, “like catching up with old friends\, swapping stories\, laughter and tears.” The standout piece\, Through Coloured Windows explores grief with striking tenderness\, while the book’s namesake\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin is celebration as “one-of-a-kind\, laugh-your-ass-off funny!” \n \n \n \n \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 will be supported by Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $13 per person plus booking fee\, general admission | $9 for BMI members plus booking fee. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/vegas-70-mary-poppins/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Ballarat Heritage Festival,Festival,Film,Fundraiser ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/square-promos-mary-poppins.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250524T150000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250524T163000 DTSTAMP:20260614T035205 CREATED:20250424T001228Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250428T040455Z UID:64688-1748098800-1748104200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Open House Melbourne Presents\, Heritage Conversations: A Life in photos - John Gollings DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat – Nostalgic memories of Stawell & Ballarat – 1950s and 1960s \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n5:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n6:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$9 – $13 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Geoff Carr\, author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Spike is a young boy in 1950s Australia\, surrounded by sprawling landscapesand a menagerie of animals. Together with his friends Leany and Riddy\, they do what all young boys in the bush do: make their own fun. From chooks in outhouses\, exploding trees and rats at the flicks to standing up to backyard bullies\, farewelling dear friends and making unexpected new ones\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories traverses the passing of time\, documenting a life well lived and fondly remembered. Laced with dry humour and typical understated Australian cadence\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories invites readers to look back at life in a time gone by and delight in the charming stories of author Geoff Carr. \n \n \n \n ReviewsDickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories is unlike anything I’ve read before. It feels like a eulogy – not a sombre one\, but more in the way you might catch up with friends from years gone\, with a beer in hand\, and swap stories and laughter and tears. It’s filled with absurdity\, heartbreak\, humour and a quiet reverence that never quite leaves\, even long after you’ve finished reading it. These aren’t just stories; they’re lived-in moments\, softened by age and nostalgia and celebratory for the joy of having truly known someone. Among that\, Carr gives us – the reader – something precious: the gift of sharing. These are no longer just his memories – they’re ours. And in that act of sharing\, the people and characters and souls and memories tied up within these stories live on. They continue to exist beside him and now\, beside us. Stephanie\, ARC Reviewer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the speaker \n \n \n Geoff Carr\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Geoff Carr is a Ballarat-based author of short stories inspired by his childhood. He grew up in the Wimmera town of Stawell and cherished his caring and loving upbringing enveloped in the blue silhouettes of the famous Grampians and lesser- known Black Ranges. This was the setting before commencing his teaching career and settling in Ballarat for over fifty years. Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin; Other Stories is a collection of short stories that presents a sentimental portrait of boyhood and bush life told through Carr’s quintessentially Australian humour and country charm. ‘This is a book of memories. I want people to be transported back in time where thosenostalgic memories can be reignited\,’ Carr said. Early readers have praised this collection as both a tribute and a celebration\, “like catching up with old friends\, swapping stories\, laughter and tears.” The standout piece\, Through Coloured Windows explores grief with striking tenderness\, while the book’s namesake\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin is celebration as “one-of-a-kind\, laugh-your-ass-off funny!” \n \n \n \n \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 will be supported by Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $13 per person plus booking fee\, general admission | $9 for BMI members plus booking fee. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/a-life-in-photos-john-gollings/ LOCATION:VIC CATEGORIES:Ballarat Heritage Festival,Festival,Talk ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/john-gollings.webp ORGANIZER;CN="Open House Melbourne":MAILTO:info@ohm.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250524T200000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250524T210000 DTSTAMP:20260614T035205 CREATED:20250423T040828Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250423T060001Z UID:64663-1748116800-1748120400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Wizard Oil and Wonders: Frank Weston the Wizard Oil Prince DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat – Nostalgic memories of Stawell & Ballarat – 1950s and 1960s \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n5:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n6:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$9 – $13 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Geoff Carr\, author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Spike is a young boy in 1950s Australia\, surrounded by sprawling landscapesand a menagerie of animals. Together with his friends Leany and Riddy\, they do what all young boys in the bush do: make their own fun. From chooks in outhouses\, exploding trees and rats at the flicks to standing up to backyard bullies\, farewelling dear friends and making unexpected new ones\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories traverses the passing of time\, documenting a life well lived and fondly remembered. Laced with dry humour and typical understated Australian cadence\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories invites readers to look back at life in a time gone by and delight in the charming stories of author Geoff Carr. \n \n \n \n ReviewsDickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories is unlike anything I’ve read before. It feels like a eulogy – not a sombre one\, but more in the way you might catch up with friends from years gone\, with a beer in hand\, and swap stories and laughter and tears. It’s filled with absurdity\, heartbreak\, humour and a quiet reverence that never quite leaves\, even long after you’ve finished reading it. These aren’t just stories; they’re lived-in moments\, softened by age and nostalgia and celebratory for the joy of having truly known someone. Among that\, Carr gives us – the reader – something precious: the gift of sharing. These are no longer just his memories – they’re ours. And in that act of sharing\, the people and characters and souls and memories tied up within these stories live on. They continue to exist beside him and now\, beside us. Stephanie\, ARC Reviewer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the speaker \n \n \n Geoff Carr\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Geoff Carr is a Ballarat-based author of short stories inspired by his childhood. He grew up in the Wimmera town of Stawell and cherished his caring and loving upbringing enveloped in the blue silhouettes of the famous Grampians and lesser- known Black Ranges. This was the setting before commencing his teaching career and settling in Ballarat for over fifty years. Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin; Other Stories is a collection of short stories that presents a sentimental portrait of boyhood and bush life told through Carr’s quintessentially Australian humour and country charm. ‘This is a book of memories. I want people to be transported back in time where thosenostalgic memories can be reignited\,’ Carr said. Early readers have praised this collection as both a tribute and a celebration\, “like catching up with old friends\, swapping stories\, laughter and tears.” The standout piece\, Through Coloured Windows explores grief with striking tenderness\, while the book’s namesake\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin is celebration as “one-of-a-kind\, laugh-your-ass-off funny!” \n \n \n \n \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 will be supported by Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $13 per person plus booking fee\, general admission | $9 for BMI members plus booking fee. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/wizard-oil-and-wonders/ LOCATION:VIC CATEGORIES:Ballarat Heritage Festival,Festival,Theatre Production ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/square-promo.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250525T140000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250525T173000 DTSTAMP:20260614T035205 CREATED:20250422T011809Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250516T034922Z UID:64638-1748181600-1748194200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Sweet Sounds for the Otways DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat – Nostalgic memories of Stawell & Ballarat – 1950s and 1960s \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n5:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n6:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$9 – $13 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Geoff Carr\, author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Spike is a young boy in 1950s Australia\, surrounded by sprawling landscapesand a menagerie of animals. Together with his friends Leany and Riddy\, they do what all young boys in the bush do: make their own fun. From chooks in outhouses\, exploding trees and rats at the flicks to standing up to backyard bullies\, farewelling dear friends and making unexpected new ones\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories traverses the passing of time\, documenting a life well lived and fondly remembered. Laced with dry humour and typical understated Australian cadence\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories invites readers to look back at life in a time gone by and delight in the charming stories of author Geoff Carr. \n \n \n \n ReviewsDickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories is unlike anything I’ve read before. It feels like a eulogy – not a sombre one\, but more in the way you might catch up with friends from years gone\, with a beer in hand\, and swap stories and laughter and tears. It’s filled with absurdity\, heartbreak\, humour and a quiet reverence that never quite leaves\, even long after you’ve finished reading it. These aren’t just stories; they’re lived-in moments\, softened by age and nostalgia and celebratory for the joy of having truly known someone. Among that\, Carr gives us – the reader – something precious: the gift of sharing. These are no longer just his memories – they’re ours. And in that act of sharing\, the people and characters and souls and memories tied up within these stories live on. They continue to exist beside him and now\, beside us. Stephanie\, ARC Reviewer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the speaker \n \n \n Geoff Carr\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Geoff Carr is a Ballarat-based author of short stories inspired by his childhood. He grew up in the Wimmera town of Stawell and cherished his caring and loving upbringing enveloped in the blue silhouettes of the famous Grampians and lesser- known Black Ranges. This was the setting before commencing his teaching career and settling in Ballarat for over fifty years. Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin; Other Stories is a collection of short stories that presents a sentimental portrait of boyhood and bush life told through Carr’s quintessentially Australian humour and country charm. ‘This is a book of memories. I want people to be transported back in time where thosenostalgic memories can be reignited\,’ Carr said. Early readers have praised this collection as both a tribute and a celebration\, “like catching up with old friends\, swapping stories\, laughter and tears.” The standout piece\, Through Coloured Windows explores grief with striking tenderness\, while the book’s namesake\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin is celebration as “one-of-a-kind\, laugh-your-ass-off funny!” \n \n \n \n \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 will be supported by Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $13 per person plus booking fee\, general admission | $9 for BMI members plus booking fee. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/sweet-sounds-of-the-otways/ LOCATION:VIC CATEGORIES:Live Music ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/sq-promo-otways.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250528T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250528T193000 DTSTAMP:20260614T035205 CREATED:20250313T021402Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250321T013932Z UID:62648-1748455200-1748460600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with Nicole Alexander DESCRIPTION:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat – Nostalgic memories of Stawell & Ballarat – 1950s and 1960s \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n April 29\n\n \n\n @ \n\n\n5:30 pm\n\n \n\n\n\n \n - \n\n6:30 pm\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n$9 – $13 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Humffray Room \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speaker: Geoff Carr\, author \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Spike is a young boy in 1950s Australia\, surrounded by sprawling landscapesand a menagerie of animals. Together with his friends Leany and Riddy\, they do what all young boys in the bush do: make their own fun. From chooks in outhouses\, exploding trees and rats at the flicks to standing up to backyard bullies\, farewelling dear friends and making unexpected new ones\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories traverses the passing of time\, documenting a life well lived and fondly remembered. Laced with dry humour and typical understated Australian cadence\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories invites readers to look back at life in a time gone by and delight in the charming stories of author Geoff Carr. \n \n \n \n ReviewsDickie Larsen’s Pumpkin & Other Stories is unlike anything I’ve read before. It feels like a eulogy – not a sombre one\, but more in the way you might catch up with friends from years gone\, with a beer in hand\, and swap stories and laughter and tears. It’s filled with absurdity\, heartbreak\, humour and a quiet reverence that never quite leaves\, even long after you’ve finished reading it. These aren’t just stories; they’re lived-in moments\, softened by age and nostalgia and celebratory for the joy of having truly known someone. Among that\, Carr gives us – the reader – something precious: the gift of sharing. These are no longer just his memories – they’re ours. And in that act of sharing\, the people and characters and souls and memories tied up within these stories live on. They continue to exist beside him and now\, beside us. Stephanie\, ARC Reviewer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the speaker \n \n \n Geoff Carr\, author\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Geoff Carr is a Ballarat-based author of short stories inspired by his childhood. He grew up in the Wimmera town of Stawell and cherished his caring and loving upbringing enveloped in the blue silhouettes of the famous Grampians and lesser- known Black Ranges. This was the setting before commencing his teaching career and settling in Ballarat for over fifty years. Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin; Other Stories is a collection of short stories that presents a sentimental portrait of boyhood and bush life told through Carr’s quintessentially Australian humour and country charm. ‘This is a book of memories. I want people to be transported back in time where thosenostalgic memories can be reignited\,’ Carr said. Early readers have praised this collection as both a tribute and a celebration\, “like catching up with old friends\, swapping stories\, laughter and tears.” The standout piece\, Through Coloured Windows explores grief with striking tenderness\, while the book’s namesake\, Dickie Larsen’s Pumpkin is celebration as “one-of-a-kind\, laugh-your-ass-off funny!” \n \n \n \n \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 will be supported by Community Bank Buninyong \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $13 per person plus booking fee\, general admission | $9 for BMI members plus booking fee. Book on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/nicole-alexander/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Fundraiser,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/sq-promo-nicole-alexander.webp END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR