BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute - ECPv6.15.20//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:Australia/Melbourne BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+1100 TZOFFSETTO:+1000 TZNAME:AEST DTSTART:20250405T160000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+1000 TZOFFSETTO:+1100 TZNAME:AEDT DTSTART:20251004T160000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+1100 TZOFFSETTO:+1000 TZNAME:AEST DTSTART:20260404T160000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+1000 TZOFFSETTO:+1100 TZNAME:AEDT DTSTART:20261003T160000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+1100 TZOFFSETTO:+1000 TZNAME:AEST DTSTART:20270403T160000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+1000 TZOFFSETTO:+1100 TZNAME:AEDT DTSTART:20271002T160000 END:DAYLIGHT END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260418T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260418T203000 DTSTAMP:20260509T154450 CREATED:20260224T003813Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T044832Z UID:70861-1776538800-1776544200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:The Dog Logs\, A Ballarat National Theatre Production DESCRIPTION:From the acclaimed author of Cooper Not Out comes an adventurous retelling of the first Melbourne Cup. Set in 1861 Victoria\, Good as Gold is a cracking Australian-Western that reflects our colourful history — both the good and the bad.Critically acclaimed Cooper Not Out\, described by The Herald Sun and The Daily Telegraph as a ‘five star’ read that ‘will fill your heart’\, contains an energetic spark that is doubled in Good as Gold through its complex and loveable characters. Good as Gold follows an escaped orphan\, a copper and his prisoner\, and a gang of bushrangers as they descend on Melbourne town for the Cup. Each is hoping for something different — a new beginning\, a chance to make history\, or a prize bigger than they could imagine. But only one can get the gold. Justin Smith has a personal connection to the characters he writes\, but none more than Laurence Flynn\, named after his first Australian ancestor\, an educated man who helped immigrants of the time receive licencing to work in the local mines. Justin wrote this novel with a love for westerns\, Australian history\, and a good yarn.  Good as Gold is a tale that will simultaneously transport readers to the past\, while commenting on the racism that still exists in our present. It reminds us that putting your faith into the wrong people can often lead to  trouble. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Justin Smith is a Melbourne writer\, journalist and broadcaster. He’s a columnist with the Melbourne Herald Sun and a weekly guest on Channel Seven’s Sunrise program and Sky News. Justin has had a long career in radio as a presenter and executive producer. He has hosted national programs\, he was embedded with Australian troops in Afghanistan\, and was the Drive host on Sydney’s 2UE. He’s won multiple awards for journalism and broadcasting. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Gavin McGrath Justin will be in-conversation with ABC Ballarat Journalist Gavin McGrath. After more than a decade and a half working the beat as a newspaper reporter\, Gavin McGrath brings an eye (and an ear) for what’s newsworthy\, interesting and just plain unusual in regional Australia to ABC Local Radio. Growing up in regional South Australia and Victoria\, Gavin was a relative latecomer to news journalism (he actually wanted to be a fighter pilot) but studied communications at Deakin University in Warrnambool and has since worked for the Herald Sun (five years) and The Courier in Ballarat (eight years). Prior to becoming a staff reporter\, he worked within the motoring industry and as a motorsport scribe at racetracks around Australia. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Gavin McGrath\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n In his time as a writer Gavin has taken a keen interest in local sport\, rural and farming matters\, and even returned to his first love\, driving and reviewing cars\, but hasn’t been afraid to tackle everything from politics to theatre (including a failed attempt to become Ballarat’s Phantom of the Opera. Sadly he is a terrible singer). There has also been a late run at attracting the attention of AFL football recruiters\, playing bush footy as a 40-something despite an absence of any kind of sporting ability and playing virtually no football between the ages of 15 and 39. He has even spun up some discs as a pub DJ so beware of hearing the odd pub rock tune or cheesy disco classic. Gavin takes a look at local life in Ballarat and South West Victoria each weekday between 10 and 11am\, and would love to hear your stories. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Enquiries:  Any event specific enquires should be direct to library@ballaratmi.org.au \n \n \n \n \n \n $10 per person plus booking fee & gst \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book Here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Download flyer\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Collins Booksellers\, Ballart on Lydiard will be handling book sales for the event. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Not become a member\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is a BMI Community Cultural Project – Ballarat’s Oldest Cultural Institution \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n The Marriage Trap Victoria Purman Don’t miss Victoria who will... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarta Writers – write it your way\n Stella Day Out\, Ballarat 5 November 2025 | As events... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – May 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Brian Chapman & Friends\, A Trio of Stunning Piano Quartets\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/the-dog-logs-18-april/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Ballarat National Theatre,Theatre Production ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/sq-promo-dog-log-222.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Ballarat National Theatre":MAILTO:contact@bnt.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260419T140000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260419T153000 DTSTAMP:20260509T154450 CREATED:20260224T003924Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T044750Z UID:70863-1776607200-1776612600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:The Dog Logs\, A Ballarat National Theatre Production DESCRIPTION:From the acclaimed author of Cooper Not Out comes an adventurous retelling of the first Melbourne Cup. Set in 1861 Victoria\, Good as Gold is a cracking Australian-Western that reflects our colourful history — both the good and the bad.Critically acclaimed Cooper Not Out\, described by The Herald Sun and The Daily Telegraph as a ‘five star’ read that ‘will fill your heart’\, contains an energetic spark that is doubled in Good as Gold through its complex and loveable characters. Good as Gold follows an escaped orphan\, a copper and his prisoner\, and a gang of bushrangers as they descend on Melbourne town for the Cup. Each is hoping for something different — a new beginning\, a chance to make history\, or a prize bigger than they could imagine. But only one can get the gold. Justin Smith has a personal connection to the characters he writes\, but none more than Laurence Flynn\, named after his first Australian ancestor\, an educated man who helped immigrants of the time receive licencing to work in the local mines. Justin wrote this novel with a love for westerns\, Australian history\, and a good yarn.  Good as Gold is a tale that will simultaneously transport readers to the past\, while commenting on the racism that still exists in our present. It reminds us that putting your faith into the wrong people can often lead to  trouble. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Justin Smith is a Melbourne writer\, journalist and broadcaster. He’s a columnist with the Melbourne Herald Sun and a weekly guest on Channel Seven’s Sunrise program and Sky News. Justin has had a long career in radio as a presenter and executive producer. He has hosted national programs\, he was embedded with Australian troops in Afghanistan\, and was the Drive host on Sydney’s 2UE. He’s won multiple awards for journalism and broadcasting. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Gavin McGrath Justin will be in-conversation with ABC Ballarat Journalist Gavin McGrath. After more than a decade and a half working the beat as a newspaper reporter\, Gavin McGrath brings an eye (and an ear) for what’s newsworthy\, interesting and just plain unusual in regional Australia to ABC Local Radio. Growing up in regional South Australia and Victoria\, Gavin was a relative latecomer to news journalism (he actually wanted to be a fighter pilot) but studied communications at Deakin University in Warrnambool and has since worked for the Herald Sun (five years) and The Courier in Ballarat (eight years). Prior to becoming a staff reporter\, he worked within the motoring industry and as a motorsport scribe at racetracks around Australia. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Gavin McGrath\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n In his time as a writer Gavin has taken a keen interest in local sport\, rural and farming matters\, and even returned to his first love\, driving and reviewing cars\, but hasn’t been afraid to tackle everything from politics to theatre (including a failed attempt to become Ballarat’s Phantom of the Opera. Sadly he is a terrible singer). There has also been a late run at attracting the attention of AFL football recruiters\, playing bush footy as a 40-something despite an absence of any kind of sporting ability and playing virtually no football between the ages of 15 and 39. He has even spun up some discs as a pub DJ so beware of hearing the odd pub rock tune or cheesy disco classic. Gavin takes a look at local life in Ballarat and South West Victoria each weekday between 10 and 11am\, and would love to hear your stories. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Enquiries:  Any event specific enquires should be direct to library@ballaratmi.org.au \n \n \n \n \n \n $10 per person plus booking fee & gst \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book Here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Download flyer\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Collins Booksellers\, Ballart on Lydiard will be handling book sales for the event. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Not become a member\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is a BMI Community Cultural Project – Ballarat’s Oldest Cultural Institution \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n The Marriage Trap Victoria Purman Don’t miss Victoria who will... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarta Writers – write it your way\n Stella Day Out\, Ballarat 5 November 2025 | As events... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – May 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Brian Chapman & Friends\, A Trio of Stunning Piano Quartets\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/the-dog-logs-19-april/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Ballarat National Theatre,Theatre Production ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/sq-promo-dog-log-222.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Ballarat National Theatre":MAILTO:contact@bnt.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260421T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260421T193000 DTSTAMP:20260509T154450 CREATED:20260225T002934Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T044657Z UID:70896-1776794400-1776799800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with Fiona Lowe DESCRIPTION:From the acclaimed author of Cooper Not Out comes an adventurous retelling of the first Melbourne Cup. Set in 1861 Victoria\, Good as Gold is a cracking Australian-Western that reflects our colourful history — both the good and the bad.Critically acclaimed Cooper Not Out\, described by The Herald Sun and The Daily Telegraph as a ‘five star’ read that ‘will fill your heart’\, contains an energetic spark that is doubled in Good as Gold through its complex and loveable characters. Good as Gold follows an escaped orphan\, a copper and his prisoner\, and a gang of bushrangers as they descend on Melbourne town for the Cup. Each is hoping for something different — a new beginning\, a chance to make history\, or a prize bigger than they could imagine. But only one can get the gold. Justin Smith has a personal connection to the characters he writes\, but none more than Laurence Flynn\, named after his first Australian ancestor\, an educated man who helped immigrants of the time receive licencing to work in the local mines. Justin wrote this novel with a love for westerns\, Australian history\, and a good yarn.  Good as Gold is a tale that will simultaneously transport readers to the past\, while commenting on the racism that still exists in our present. It reminds us that putting your faith into the wrong people can often lead to  trouble. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Justin Smith is a Melbourne writer\, journalist and broadcaster. He’s a columnist with the Melbourne Herald Sun and a weekly guest on Channel Seven’s Sunrise program and Sky News. Justin has had a long career in radio as a presenter and executive producer. He has hosted national programs\, he was embedded with Australian troops in Afghanistan\, and was the Drive host on Sydney’s 2UE. He’s won multiple awards for journalism and broadcasting. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Gavin McGrath Justin will be in-conversation with ABC Ballarat Journalist Gavin McGrath. After more than a decade and a half working the beat as a newspaper reporter\, Gavin McGrath brings an eye (and an ear) for what’s newsworthy\, interesting and just plain unusual in regional Australia to ABC Local Radio. Growing up in regional South Australia and Victoria\, Gavin was a relative latecomer to news journalism (he actually wanted to be a fighter pilot) but studied communications at Deakin University in Warrnambool and has since worked for the Herald Sun (five years) and The Courier in Ballarat (eight years). Prior to becoming a staff reporter\, he worked within the motoring industry and as a motorsport scribe at racetracks around Australia. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Gavin McGrath\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n In his time as a writer Gavin has taken a keen interest in local sport\, rural and farming matters\, and even returned to his first love\, driving and reviewing cars\, but hasn’t been afraid to tackle everything from politics to theatre (including a failed attempt to become Ballarat’s Phantom of the Opera. Sadly he is a terrible singer). There has also been a late run at attracting the attention of AFL football recruiters\, playing bush footy as a 40-something despite an absence of any kind of sporting ability and playing virtually no football between the ages of 15 and 39. He has even spun up some discs as a pub DJ so beware of hearing the odd pub rock tune or cheesy disco classic. Gavin takes a look at local life in Ballarat and South West Victoria each weekday between 10 and 11am\, and would love to hear your stories. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Enquiries:  Any event specific enquires should be direct to library@ballaratmi.org.au \n \n \n \n \n \n $10 per person plus booking fee & gst \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book Here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Download flyer\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Collins Booksellers\, Ballart on Lydiard will be handling book sales for the event. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Not become a member\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is a BMI Community Cultural Project – Ballarat’s Oldest Cultural Institution \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n The Marriage Trap Victoria Purman Don’t miss Victoria who will... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarta Writers – write it your way\n Stella Day Out\, Ballarat 5 November 2025 | As events... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – May 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Brian Chapman & Friends\, A Trio of Stunning Piano Quartets\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/fiona-lowe/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/sp-promo-talks-fiona-lowe.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260422T140000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260422T160000 DTSTAMP:20260509T154450 CREATED:20260413T033307Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260413T062449Z UID:72085-1776866400-1776873600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:SHARC Roadshow 2026 DESCRIPTION:From the acclaimed author of Cooper Not Out comes an adventurous retelling of the first Melbourne Cup. Set in 1861 Victoria\, Good as Gold is a cracking Australian-Western that reflects our colourful history — both the good and the bad.Critically acclaimed Cooper Not Out\, described by The Herald Sun and The Daily Telegraph as a ‘five star’ read that ‘will fill your heart’\, contains an energetic spark that is doubled in Good as Gold through its complex and loveable characters. Good as Gold follows an escaped orphan\, a copper and his prisoner\, and a gang of bushrangers as they descend on Melbourne town for the Cup. Each is hoping for something different — a new beginning\, a chance to make history\, or a prize bigger than they could imagine. But only one can get the gold. Justin Smith has a personal connection to the characters he writes\, but none more than Laurence Flynn\, named after his first Australian ancestor\, an educated man who helped immigrants of the time receive licencing to work in the local mines. Justin wrote this novel with a love for westerns\, Australian history\, and a good yarn.  Good as Gold is a tale that will simultaneously transport readers to the past\, while commenting on the racism that still exists in our present. It reminds us that putting your faith into the wrong people can often lead to  trouble. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Justin Smith is a Melbourne writer\, journalist and broadcaster. He’s a columnist with the Melbourne Herald Sun and a weekly guest on Channel Seven’s Sunrise program and Sky News. Justin has had a long career in radio as a presenter and executive producer. He has hosted national programs\, he was embedded with Australian troops in Afghanistan\, and was the Drive host on Sydney’s 2UE. He’s won multiple awards for journalism and broadcasting. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Gavin McGrath Justin will be in-conversation with ABC Ballarat Journalist Gavin McGrath. After more than a decade and a half working the beat as a newspaper reporter\, Gavin McGrath brings an eye (and an ear) for what’s newsworthy\, interesting and just plain unusual in regional Australia to ABC Local Radio. Growing up in regional South Australia and Victoria\, Gavin was a relative latecomer to news journalism (he actually wanted to be a fighter pilot) but studied communications at Deakin University in Warrnambool and has since worked for the Herald Sun (five years) and The Courier in Ballarat (eight years). Prior to becoming a staff reporter\, he worked within the motoring industry and as a motorsport scribe at racetracks around Australia. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Gavin McGrath\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n In his time as a writer Gavin has taken a keen interest in local sport\, rural and farming matters\, and even returned to his first love\, driving and reviewing cars\, but hasn’t been afraid to tackle everything from politics to theatre (including a failed attempt to become Ballarat’s Phantom of the Opera. Sadly he is a terrible singer). There has also been a late run at attracting the attention of AFL football recruiters\, playing bush footy as a 40-something despite an absence of any kind of sporting ability and playing virtually no football between the ages of 15 and 39. He has even spun up some discs as a pub DJ so beware of hearing the odd pub rock tune or cheesy disco classic. Gavin takes a look at local life in Ballarat and South West Victoria each weekday between 10 and 11am\, and would love to hear your stories. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Enquiries:  Any event specific enquires should be direct to library@ballaratmi.org.au \n \n \n \n \n \n $10 per person plus booking fee & gst \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book Here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Download flyer\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Collins Booksellers\, Ballart on Lydiard will be handling book sales for the event. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Not become a member\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is a BMI Community Cultural Project – Ballarat’s Oldest Cultural Institution \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n The Marriage Trap Victoria Purman Don’t miss Victoria who will... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarta Writers – write it your way\n Stella Day Out\, Ballarat 5 November 2025 | As events... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – May 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Brian Chapman & Friends\, A Trio of Stunning Piano Quartets\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/sharc-roadshow-2026/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:SHARC ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/sq-promo-events-sharc.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260422T173000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260422T183000 DTSTAMP:20260509T154450 CREATED:20260316T055851Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260415T032833Z UID:71323-1776879000-1776882600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat - Ballarat Avenue of Honour DESCRIPTION:From the acclaimed author of Cooper Not Out comes an adventurous retelling of the first Melbourne Cup. Set in 1861 Victoria\, Good as Gold is a cracking Australian-Western that reflects our colourful history — both the good and the bad.Critically acclaimed Cooper Not Out\, described by The Herald Sun and The Daily Telegraph as a ‘five star’ read that ‘will fill your heart’\, contains an energetic spark that is doubled in Good as Gold through its complex and loveable characters. Good as Gold follows an escaped orphan\, a copper and his prisoner\, and a gang of bushrangers as they descend on Melbourne town for the Cup. Each is hoping for something different — a new beginning\, a chance to make history\, or a prize bigger than they could imagine. But only one can get the gold. Justin Smith has a personal connection to the characters he writes\, but none more than Laurence Flynn\, named after his first Australian ancestor\, an educated man who helped immigrants of the time receive licencing to work in the local mines. Justin wrote this novel with a love for westerns\, Australian history\, and a good yarn.  Good as Gold is a tale that will simultaneously transport readers to the past\, while commenting on the racism that still exists in our present. It reminds us that putting your faith into the wrong people can often lead to  trouble. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Justin Smith is a Melbourne writer\, journalist and broadcaster. He’s a columnist with the Melbourne Herald Sun and a weekly guest on Channel Seven’s Sunrise program and Sky News. Justin has had a long career in radio as a presenter and executive producer. He has hosted national programs\, he was embedded with Australian troops in Afghanistan\, and was the Drive host on Sydney’s 2UE. He’s won multiple awards for journalism and broadcasting. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Gavin McGrath Justin will be in-conversation with ABC Ballarat Journalist Gavin McGrath. After more than a decade and a half working the beat as a newspaper reporter\, Gavin McGrath brings an eye (and an ear) for what’s newsworthy\, interesting and just plain unusual in regional Australia to ABC Local Radio. Growing up in regional South Australia and Victoria\, Gavin was a relative latecomer to news journalism (he actually wanted to be a fighter pilot) but studied communications at Deakin University in Warrnambool and has since worked for the Herald Sun (five years) and The Courier in Ballarat (eight years). Prior to becoming a staff reporter\, he worked within the motoring industry and as a motorsport scribe at racetracks around Australia. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Gavin McGrath\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n In his time as a writer Gavin has taken a keen interest in local sport\, rural and farming matters\, and even returned to his first love\, driving and reviewing cars\, but hasn’t been afraid to tackle everything from politics to theatre (including a failed attempt to become Ballarat’s Phantom of the Opera. Sadly he is a terrible singer). There has also been a late run at attracting the attention of AFL football recruiters\, playing bush footy as a 40-something despite an absence of any kind of sporting ability and playing virtually no football between the ages of 15 and 39. He has even spun up some discs as a pub DJ so beware of hearing the odd pub rock tune or cheesy disco classic. Gavin takes a look at local life in Ballarat and South West Victoria each weekday between 10 and 11am\, and would love to hear your stories. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Enquiries:  Any event specific enquires should be direct to library@ballaratmi.org.au \n \n \n \n \n \n $10 per person plus booking fee & gst \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book Here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Download flyer\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Collins Booksellers\, Ballart on Lydiard will be handling book sales for the event. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Not become a member\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is a BMI Community Cultural Project – Ballarat’s Oldest Cultural Institution \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n The Marriage Trap Victoria Purman Don’t miss Victoria who will... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarta Writers – write it your way\n Stella Day Out\, Ballarat 5 November 2025 | As events... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – May 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Brian Chapman & Friends\, A Trio of Stunning Piano Quartets\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/twilight-talks-focus-on-ballarat-ballarat-avenue-of-honour/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Australian Heritage Festival,Twilight Talks ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/square-promo-2025-ballarat-avenue-of-honour.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260422T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260422T200000 DTSTAMP:20260509T154450 CREATED:20260302T012427Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T044616Z UID:71025-1776884400-1776888000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Kadampa Meditation Series | Love Changes Everything: How to Transform Yourself & the World Around You DESCRIPTION:From the acclaimed author of Cooper Not Out comes an adventurous retelling of the first Melbourne Cup. Set in 1861 Victoria\, Good as Gold is a cracking Australian-Western that reflects our colourful history — both the good and the bad.Critically acclaimed Cooper Not Out\, described by The Herald Sun and The Daily Telegraph as a ‘five star’ read that ‘will fill your heart’\, contains an energetic spark that is doubled in Good as Gold through its complex and loveable characters. Good as Gold follows an escaped orphan\, a copper and his prisoner\, and a gang of bushrangers as they descend on Melbourne town for the Cup. Each is hoping for something different — a new beginning\, a chance to make history\, or a prize bigger than they could imagine. But only one can get the gold. Justin Smith has a personal connection to the characters he writes\, but none more than Laurence Flynn\, named after his first Australian ancestor\, an educated man who helped immigrants of the time receive licencing to work in the local mines. Justin wrote this novel with a love for westerns\, Australian history\, and a good yarn.  Good as Gold is a tale that will simultaneously transport readers to the past\, while commenting on the racism that still exists in our present. It reminds us that putting your faith into the wrong people can often lead to  trouble. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Justin Smith is a Melbourne writer\, journalist and broadcaster. He’s a columnist with the Melbourne Herald Sun and a weekly guest on Channel Seven’s Sunrise program and Sky News. Justin has had a long career in radio as a presenter and executive producer. He has hosted national programs\, he was embedded with Australian troops in Afghanistan\, and was the Drive host on Sydney’s 2UE. He’s won multiple awards for journalism and broadcasting. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Gavin McGrath Justin will be in-conversation with ABC Ballarat Journalist Gavin McGrath. After more than a decade and a half working the beat as a newspaper reporter\, Gavin McGrath brings an eye (and an ear) for what’s newsworthy\, interesting and just plain unusual in regional Australia to ABC Local Radio. Growing up in regional South Australia and Victoria\, Gavin was a relative latecomer to news journalism (he actually wanted to be a fighter pilot) but studied communications at Deakin University in Warrnambool and has since worked for the Herald Sun (five years) and The Courier in Ballarat (eight years). Prior to becoming a staff reporter\, he worked within the motoring industry and as a motorsport scribe at racetracks around Australia. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Gavin McGrath\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n In his time as a writer Gavin has taken a keen interest in local sport\, rural and farming matters\, and even returned to his first love\, driving and reviewing cars\, but hasn’t been afraid to tackle everything from politics to theatre (including a failed attempt to become Ballarat’s Phantom of the Opera. Sadly he is a terrible singer). There has also been a late run at attracting the attention of AFL football recruiters\, playing bush footy as a 40-something despite an absence of any kind of sporting ability and playing virtually no football between the ages of 15 and 39. He has even spun up some discs as a pub DJ so beware of hearing the odd pub rock tune or cheesy disco classic. Gavin takes a look at local life in Ballarat and South West Victoria each weekday between 10 and 11am\, and would love to hear your stories. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Enquiries:  Any event specific enquires should be direct to library@ballaratmi.org.au \n \n \n \n \n \n $10 per person plus booking fee & gst \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book Here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Download flyer\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Collins Booksellers\, Ballart on Lydiard will be handling book sales for the event. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Not become a member\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is a BMI Community Cultural Project – Ballarat’s Oldest Cultural Institution \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n The Marriage Trap Victoria Purman Don’t miss Victoria who will... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarta Writers – write it your way\n Stella Day Out\, Ballarat 5 November 2025 | As events... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – May 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Brian Chapman & Friends\, A Trio of Stunning Piano Quartets\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/kadampa-meditation-series-22-apr/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:kadampa ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/3-Love-Changes-BMI-Square.png ORGANIZER;CN="Kadampa Meditation":MAILTO:info@kadampa.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260423T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260423T210000 DTSTAMP:20260509T154450 CREATED:20260129T035010Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T044530Z UID:70398-1776972600-1776978000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Ballarat Film Society | Only The Animals DESCRIPTION:From the acclaimed author of Cooper Not Out comes an adventurous retelling of the first Melbourne Cup. Set in 1861 Victoria\, Good as Gold is a cracking Australian-Western that reflects our colourful history — both the good and the bad.Critically acclaimed Cooper Not Out\, described by The Herald Sun and The Daily Telegraph as a ‘five star’ read that ‘will fill your heart’\, contains an energetic spark that is doubled in Good as Gold through its complex and loveable characters. Good as Gold follows an escaped orphan\, a copper and his prisoner\, and a gang of bushrangers as they descend on Melbourne town for the Cup. Each is hoping for something different — a new beginning\, a chance to make history\, or a prize bigger than they could imagine. But only one can get the gold. Justin Smith has a personal connection to the characters he writes\, but none more than Laurence Flynn\, named after his first Australian ancestor\, an educated man who helped immigrants of the time receive licencing to work in the local mines. Justin wrote this novel with a love for westerns\, Australian history\, and a good yarn.  Good as Gold is a tale that will simultaneously transport readers to the past\, while commenting on the racism that still exists in our present. It reminds us that putting your faith into the wrong people can often lead to  trouble. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Justin Smith is a Melbourne writer\, journalist and broadcaster. He’s a columnist with the Melbourne Herald Sun and a weekly guest on Channel Seven’s Sunrise program and Sky News. Justin has had a long career in radio as a presenter and executive producer. He has hosted national programs\, he was embedded with Australian troops in Afghanistan\, and was the Drive host on Sydney’s 2UE. He’s won multiple awards for journalism and broadcasting. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Gavin McGrath Justin will be in-conversation with ABC Ballarat Journalist Gavin McGrath. After more than a decade and a half working the beat as a newspaper reporter\, Gavin McGrath brings an eye (and an ear) for what’s newsworthy\, interesting and just plain unusual in regional Australia to ABC Local Radio. Growing up in regional South Australia and Victoria\, Gavin was a relative latecomer to news journalism (he actually wanted to be a fighter pilot) but studied communications at Deakin University in Warrnambool and has since worked for the Herald Sun (five years) and The Courier in Ballarat (eight years). Prior to becoming a staff reporter\, he worked within the motoring industry and as a motorsport scribe at racetracks around Australia. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Gavin McGrath\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n In his time as a writer Gavin has taken a keen interest in local sport\, rural and farming matters\, and even returned to his first love\, driving and reviewing cars\, but hasn’t been afraid to tackle everything from politics to theatre (including a failed attempt to become Ballarat’s Phantom of the Opera. Sadly he is a terrible singer). There has also been a late run at attracting the attention of AFL football recruiters\, playing bush footy as a 40-something despite an absence of any kind of sporting ability and playing virtually no football between the ages of 15 and 39. He has even spun up some discs as a pub DJ so beware of hearing the odd pub rock tune or cheesy disco classic. Gavin takes a look at local life in Ballarat and South West Victoria each weekday between 10 and 11am\, and would love to hear your stories. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Enquiries:  Any event specific enquires should be direct to library@ballaratmi.org.au \n \n \n \n \n \n $10 per person plus booking fee & gst \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book Here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Download flyer\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Collins Booksellers\, Ballart on Lydiard will be handling book sales for the event. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Not become a member\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is a BMI Community Cultural Project – Ballarat’s Oldest Cultural Institution \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n The Marriage Trap Victoria Purman Don’t miss Victoria who will... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarta Writers – write it your way\n Stella Day Out\, Ballarat 5 November 2025 | As events... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – May 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Brian Chapman & Friends\, A Trio of Stunning Piano Quartets\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/ballarat-film-society-only-the-animals/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Ballarat Film Society,Film ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/only-the-animals-sq-promo-v4.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260424T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260424T200000 DTSTAMP:20260509T154450 CREATED:20260310T000249Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T044311Z UID:71128-1777057200-1777060800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Minerva's Secrets | Night Tour DESCRIPTION:From the acclaimed author of Cooper Not Out comes an adventurous retelling of the first Melbourne Cup. Set in 1861 Victoria\, Good as Gold is a cracking Australian-Western that reflects our colourful history — both the good and the bad.Critically acclaimed Cooper Not Out\, described by The Herald Sun and The Daily Telegraph as a ‘five star’ read that ‘will fill your heart’\, contains an energetic spark that is doubled in Good as Gold through its complex and loveable characters. Good as Gold follows an escaped orphan\, a copper and his prisoner\, and a gang of bushrangers as they descend on Melbourne town for the Cup. Each is hoping for something different — a new beginning\, a chance to make history\, or a prize bigger than they could imagine. But only one can get the gold. Justin Smith has a personal connection to the characters he writes\, but none more than Laurence Flynn\, named after his first Australian ancestor\, an educated man who helped immigrants of the time receive licencing to work in the local mines. Justin wrote this novel with a love for westerns\, Australian history\, and a good yarn.  Good as Gold is a tale that will simultaneously transport readers to the past\, while commenting on the racism that still exists in our present. It reminds us that putting your faith into the wrong people can often lead to  trouble. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Justin Smith is a Melbourne writer\, journalist and broadcaster. He’s a columnist with the Melbourne Herald Sun and a weekly guest on Channel Seven’s Sunrise program and Sky News. Justin has had a long career in radio as a presenter and executive producer. He has hosted national programs\, he was embedded with Australian troops in Afghanistan\, and was the Drive host on Sydney’s 2UE. He’s won multiple awards for journalism and broadcasting. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Gavin McGrath Justin will be in-conversation with ABC Ballarat Journalist Gavin McGrath. After more than a decade and a half working the beat as a newspaper reporter\, Gavin McGrath brings an eye (and an ear) for what’s newsworthy\, interesting and just plain unusual in regional Australia to ABC Local Radio. Growing up in regional South Australia and Victoria\, Gavin was a relative latecomer to news journalism (he actually wanted to be a fighter pilot) but studied communications at Deakin University in Warrnambool and has since worked for the Herald Sun (five years) and The Courier in Ballarat (eight years). Prior to becoming a staff reporter\, he worked within the motoring industry and as a motorsport scribe at racetracks around Australia. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Gavin McGrath\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n In his time as a writer Gavin has taken a keen interest in local sport\, rural and farming matters\, and even returned to his first love\, driving and reviewing cars\, but hasn’t been afraid to tackle everything from politics to theatre (including a failed attempt to become Ballarat’s Phantom of the Opera. Sadly he is a terrible singer). There has also been a late run at attracting the attention of AFL football recruiters\, playing bush footy as a 40-something despite an absence of any kind of sporting ability and playing virtually no football between the ages of 15 and 39. He has even spun up some discs as a pub DJ so beware of hearing the odd pub rock tune or cheesy disco classic. Gavin takes a look at local life in Ballarat and South West Victoria each weekday between 10 and 11am\, and would love to hear your stories. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Enquiries:  Any event specific enquires should be direct to library@ballaratmi.org.au \n \n \n \n \n \n $10 per person plus booking fee & gst \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book Here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Download flyer\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Collins Booksellers\, Ballart on Lydiard will be handling book sales for the event. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Not become a member\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is a BMI Community Cultural Project – Ballarat’s Oldest Cultural Institution \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n The Marriage Trap Victoria Purman Don’t miss Victoria who will... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarta Writers – write it your way\n Stella Day Out\, Ballarat 5 November 2025 | As events... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – May 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Brian Chapman & Friends\, A Trio of Stunning Piano Quartets\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/minervas-secrets-night-tour-24-apr-26/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Australian Heritage Festival,Important Dates,Night Tours,Tours ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/received_908662326866361-e1708918930337.jpeg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260424T210000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260424T220000 DTSTAMP:20260509T154450 CREATED:20250923T052206Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T044330Z UID:67565-1777064400-1777068000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Minerva's Secrets | Night Tour DESCRIPTION:From the acclaimed author of Cooper Not Out comes an adventurous retelling of the first Melbourne Cup. Set in 1861 Victoria\, Good as Gold is a cracking Australian-Western that reflects our colourful history — both the good and the bad.Critically acclaimed Cooper Not Out\, described by The Herald Sun and The Daily Telegraph as a ‘five star’ read that ‘will fill your heart’\, contains an energetic spark that is doubled in Good as Gold through its complex and loveable characters. Good as Gold follows an escaped orphan\, a copper and his prisoner\, and a gang of bushrangers as they descend on Melbourne town for the Cup. Each is hoping for something different — a new beginning\, a chance to make history\, or a prize bigger than they could imagine. But only one can get the gold. Justin Smith has a personal connection to the characters he writes\, but none more than Laurence Flynn\, named after his first Australian ancestor\, an educated man who helped immigrants of the time receive licencing to work in the local mines. Justin wrote this novel with a love for westerns\, Australian history\, and a good yarn.  Good as Gold is a tale that will simultaneously transport readers to the past\, while commenting on the racism that still exists in our present. It reminds us that putting your faith into the wrong people can often lead to  trouble. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Justin Smith is a Melbourne writer\, journalist and broadcaster. He’s a columnist with the Melbourne Herald Sun and a weekly guest on Channel Seven’s Sunrise program and Sky News. Justin has had a long career in radio as a presenter and executive producer. He has hosted national programs\, he was embedded with Australian troops in Afghanistan\, and was the Drive host on Sydney’s 2UE. He’s won multiple awards for journalism and broadcasting. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Gavin McGrath Justin will be in-conversation with ABC Ballarat Journalist Gavin McGrath. After more than a decade and a half working the beat as a newspaper reporter\, Gavin McGrath brings an eye (and an ear) for what’s newsworthy\, interesting and just plain unusual in regional Australia to ABC Local Radio. Growing up in regional South Australia and Victoria\, Gavin was a relative latecomer to news journalism (he actually wanted to be a fighter pilot) but studied communications at Deakin University in Warrnambool and has since worked for the Herald Sun (five years) and The Courier in Ballarat (eight years). Prior to becoming a staff reporter\, he worked within the motoring industry and as a motorsport scribe at racetracks around Australia. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Gavin McGrath\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n In his time as a writer Gavin has taken a keen interest in local sport\, rural and farming matters\, and even returned to his first love\, driving and reviewing cars\, but hasn’t been afraid to tackle everything from politics to theatre (including a failed attempt to become Ballarat’s Phantom of the Opera. Sadly he is a terrible singer). There has also been a late run at attracting the attention of AFL football recruiters\, playing bush footy as a 40-something despite an absence of any kind of sporting ability and playing virtually no football between the ages of 15 and 39. He has even spun up some discs as a pub DJ so beware of hearing the odd pub rock tune or cheesy disco classic. Gavin takes a look at local life in Ballarat and South West Victoria each weekday between 10 and 11am\, and would love to hear your stories. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Enquiries:  Any event specific enquires should be direct to library@ballaratmi.org.au \n \n \n \n \n \n $10 per person plus booking fee & gst \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book Here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Download flyer\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Collins Booksellers\, Ballart on Lydiard will be handling book sales for the event. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Not become a member\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is a BMI Community Cultural Project – Ballarat’s Oldest Cultural Institution \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n The Marriage Trap Victoria Purman Don’t miss Victoria who will... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarta Writers – write it your way\n Stella Day Out\, Ballarat 5 November 2025 | As events... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – May 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Brian Chapman & Friends\, A Trio of Stunning Piano Quartets\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/minervas-secrets-night-tours-24-apr-26-2/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Australian Heritage Festival,Important Dates,Night Tours,Tours ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/received_265285705882698-e1708919200874.jpeg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260429T173000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260429T183000 DTSTAMP:20260509T154450 CREATED:20260313T041015Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T044107Z UID:71275-1777483800-1777487400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat - Nostalgic memories of Stawell & Ballarat - 1950s and 1960s DESCRIPTION:From the acclaimed author of Cooper Not Out comes an adventurous retelling of the first Melbourne Cup. Set in 1861 Victoria\, Good as Gold is a cracking Australian-Western that reflects our colourful history — both the good and the bad.Critically acclaimed Cooper Not Out\, described by The Herald Sun and The Daily Telegraph as a ‘five star’ read that ‘will fill your heart’\, contains an energetic spark that is doubled in Good as Gold through its complex and loveable characters. Good as Gold follows an escaped orphan\, a copper and his prisoner\, and a gang of bushrangers as they descend on Melbourne town for the Cup. Each is hoping for something different — a new beginning\, a chance to make history\, or a prize bigger than they could imagine. But only one can get the gold. Justin Smith has a personal connection to the characters he writes\, but none more than Laurence Flynn\, named after his first Australian ancestor\, an educated man who helped immigrants of the time receive licencing to work in the local mines. Justin wrote this novel with a love for westerns\, Australian history\, and a good yarn.  Good as Gold is a tale that will simultaneously transport readers to the past\, while commenting on the racism that still exists in our present. It reminds us that putting your faith into the wrong people can often lead to  trouble. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Justin Smith is a Melbourne writer\, journalist and broadcaster. He’s a columnist with the Melbourne Herald Sun and a weekly guest on Channel Seven’s Sunrise program and Sky News. Justin has had a long career in radio as a presenter and executive producer. He has hosted national programs\, he was embedded with Australian troops in Afghanistan\, and was the Drive host on Sydney’s 2UE. He’s won multiple awards for journalism and broadcasting. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Gavin McGrath Justin will be in-conversation with ABC Ballarat Journalist Gavin McGrath. After more than a decade and a half working the beat as a newspaper reporter\, Gavin McGrath brings an eye (and an ear) for what’s newsworthy\, interesting and just plain unusual in regional Australia to ABC Local Radio. Growing up in regional South Australia and Victoria\, Gavin was a relative latecomer to news journalism (he actually wanted to be a fighter pilot) but studied communications at Deakin University in Warrnambool and has since worked for the Herald Sun (five years) and The Courier in Ballarat (eight years). Prior to becoming a staff reporter\, he worked within the motoring industry and as a motorsport scribe at racetracks around Australia. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Gavin McGrath\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n In his time as a writer Gavin has taken a keen interest in local sport\, rural and farming matters\, and even returned to his first love\, driving and reviewing cars\, but hasn’t been afraid to tackle everything from politics to theatre (including a failed attempt to become Ballarat’s Phantom of the Opera. Sadly he is a terrible singer). There has also been a late run at attracting the attention of AFL football recruiters\, playing bush footy as a 40-something despite an absence of any kind of sporting ability and playing virtually no football between the ages of 15 and 39. He has even spun up some discs as a pub DJ so beware of hearing the odd pub rock tune or cheesy disco classic. Gavin takes a look at local life in Ballarat and South West Victoria each weekday between 10 and 11am\, and would love to hear your stories. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Enquiries:  Any event specific enquires should be direct to library@ballaratmi.org.au \n \n \n \n \n \n $10 per person plus booking fee & gst \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book Here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Download flyer\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Collins Booksellers\, Ballart on Lydiard will be handling book sales for the event. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Not become a member\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is a BMI Community Cultural Project – Ballarat’s Oldest Cultural Institution \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n The Marriage Trap Victoria Purman Don’t miss Victoria who will... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarta Writers – write it your way\n Stella Day Out\, Ballarat 5 November 2025 | As events... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – May 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Brian Chapman & Friends\, A Trio of Stunning Piano Quartets\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/twilight-talks-focus-on-ballarat-3/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Australian Heritage Festival,Author Talk,Twilight Talks ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/square-promo-2025-nostalgia-final-v2.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260429T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260429T200000 DTSTAMP:20260509T154450 CREATED:20260302T012824Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T043901Z UID:71027-1777489200-1777492800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Kadampa Meditation Series | Love Changes Everything: How to Transform Yourself & the World Around You DESCRIPTION:From the acclaimed author of Cooper Not Out comes an adventurous retelling of the first Melbourne Cup. Set in 1861 Victoria\, Good as Gold is a cracking Australian-Western that reflects our colourful history — both the good and the bad.Critically acclaimed Cooper Not Out\, described by The Herald Sun and The Daily Telegraph as a ‘five star’ read that ‘will fill your heart’\, contains an energetic spark that is doubled in Good as Gold through its complex and loveable characters. Good as Gold follows an escaped orphan\, a copper and his prisoner\, and a gang of bushrangers as they descend on Melbourne town for the Cup. Each is hoping for something different — a new beginning\, a chance to make history\, or a prize bigger than they could imagine. But only one can get the gold. Justin Smith has a personal connection to the characters he writes\, but none more than Laurence Flynn\, named after his first Australian ancestor\, an educated man who helped immigrants of the time receive licencing to work in the local mines. Justin wrote this novel with a love for westerns\, Australian history\, and a good yarn.  Good as Gold is a tale that will simultaneously transport readers to the past\, while commenting on the racism that still exists in our present. It reminds us that putting your faith into the wrong people can often lead to  trouble. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Justin Smith is a Melbourne writer\, journalist and broadcaster. He’s a columnist with the Melbourne Herald Sun and a weekly guest on Channel Seven’s Sunrise program and Sky News. Justin has had a long career in radio as a presenter and executive producer. He has hosted national programs\, he was embedded with Australian troops in Afghanistan\, and was the Drive host on Sydney’s 2UE. He’s won multiple awards for journalism and broadcasting. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Gavin McGrath Justin will be in-conversation with ABC Ballarat Journalist Gavin McGrath. After more than a decade and a half working the beat as a newspaper reporter\, Gavin McGrath brings an eye (and an ear) for what’s newsworthy\, interesting and just plain unusual in regional Australia to ABC Local Radio. Growing up in regional South Australia and Victoria\, Gavin was a relative latecomer to news journalism (he actually wanted to be a fighter pilot) but studied communications at Deakin University in Warrnambool and has since worked for the Herald Sun (five years) and The Courier in Ballarat (eight years). Prior to becoming a staff reporter\, he worked within the motoring industry and as a motorsport scribe at racetracks around Australia. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Gavin McGrath\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n In his time as a writer Gavin has taken a keen interest in local sport\, rural and farming matters\, and even returned to his first love\, driving and reviewing cars\, but hasn’t been afraid to tackle everything from politics to theatre (including a failed attempt to become Ballarat’s Phantom of the Opera. Sadly he is a terrible singer). There has also been a late run at attracting the attention of AFL football recruiters\, playing bush footy as a 40-something despite an absence of any kind of sporting ability and playing virtually no football between the ages of 15 and 39. He has even spun up some discs as a pub DJ so beware of hearing the odd pub rock tune or cheesy disco classic. Gavin takes a look at local life in Ballarat and South West Victoria each weekday between 10 and 11am\, and would love to hear your stories. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Enquiries:  Any event specific enquires should be direct to library@ballaratmi.org.au \n \n \n \n \n \n $10 per person plus booking fee & gst \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book Here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Download flyer\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Collins Booksellers\, Ballart on Lydiard will be handling book sales for the event. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Not become a member\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is a BMI Community Cultural Project – Ballarat’s Oldest Cultural Institution \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n The Marriage Trap Victoria Purman Don’t miss Victoria who will... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarta Writers – write it your way\n Stella Day Out\, Ballarat 5 November 2025 | As events... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – May 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Brian Chapman & Friends\, A Trio of Stunning Piano Quartets\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/kadampa-meditation-series-29-apr/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:kadampa ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/3-Love-Changes-BMI-Square.png ORGANIZER;CN="Kadampa Meditation":MAILTO:info@kadampa.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260430T183000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260430T200000 DTSTAMP:20260509T154450 CREATED:20260303T233837Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260420T014040Z UID:71100-1777573800-1777579200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with Anna Johnston DESCRIPTION:From the acclaimed author of Cooper Not Out comes an adventurous retelling of the first Melbourne Cup. Set in 1861 Victoria\, Good as Gold is a cracking Australian-Western that reflects our colourful history — both the good and the bad.Critically acclaimed Cooper Not Out\, described by The Herald Sun and The Daily Telegraph as a ‘five star’ read that ‘will fill your heart’\, contains an energetic spark that is doubled in Good as Gold through its complex and loveable characters. Good as Gold follows an escaped orphan\, a copper and his prisoner\, and a gang of bushrangers as they descend on Melbourne town for the Cup. Each is hoping for something different — a new beginning\, a chance to make history\, or a prize bigger than they could imagine. But only one can get the gold. Justin Smith has a personal connection to the characters he writes\, but none more than Laurence Flynn\, named after his first Australian ancestor\, an educated man who helped immigrants of the time receive licencing to work in the local mines. Justin wrote this novel with a love for westerns\, Australian history\, and a good yarn.  Good as Gold is a tale that will simultaneously transport readers to the past\, while commenting on the racism that still exists in our present. It reminds us that putting your faith into the wrong people can often lead to  trouble. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Justin Smith is a Melbourne writer\, journalist and broadcaster. He’s a columnist with the Melbourne Herald Sun and a weekly guest on Channel Seven’s Sunrise program and Sky News. Justin has had a long career in radio as a presenter and executive producer. He has hosted national programs\, he was embedded with Australian troops in Afghanistan\, and was the Drive host on Sydney’s 2UE. He’s won multiple awards for journalism and broadcasting. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Gavin McGrath Justin will be in-conversation with ABC Ballarat Journalist Gavin McGrath. After more than a decade and a half working the beat as a newspaper reporter\, Gavin McGrath brings an eye (and an ear) for what’s newsworthy\, interesting and just plain unusual in regional Australia to ABC Local Radio. Growing up in regional South Australia and Victoria\, Gavin was a relative latecomer to news journalism (he actually wanted to be a fighter pilot) but studied communications at Deakin University in Warrnambool and has since worked for the Herald Sun (five years) and The Courier in Ballarat (eight years). Prior to becoming a staff reporter\, he worked within the motoring industry and as a motorsport scribe at racetracks around Australia. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Gavin McGrath\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n In his time as a writer Gavin has taken a keen interest in local sport\, rural and farming matters\, and even returned to his first love\, driving and reviewing cars\, but hasn’t been afraid to tackle everything from politics to theatre (including a failed attempt to become Ballarat’s Phantom of the Opera. Sadly he is a terrible singer). There has also been a late run at attracting the attention of AFL football recruiters\, playing bush footy as a 40-something despite an absence of any kind of sporting ability and playing virtually no football between the ages of 15 and 39. He has even spun up some discs as a pub DJ so beware of hearing the odd pub rock tune or cheesy disco classic. Gavin takes a look at local life in Ballarat and South West Victoria each weekday between 10 and 11am\, and would love to hear your stories. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Enquiries:  Any event specific enquires should be direct to library@ballaratmi.org.au \n \n \n \n \n \n $10 per person plus booking fee & gst \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book Here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Download flyer\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Collins Booksellers\, Ballart on Lydiard will be handling book sales for the event. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Not become a member\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is a BMI Community Cultural Project – Ballarat’s Oldest Cultural Institution \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n The Marriage Trap Victoria Purman Don’t miss Victoria who will... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarta Writers – write it your way\n Stella Day Out\, Ballarat 5 November 2025 | As events... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – May 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Brian Chapman & Friends\, A Trio of Stunning Piano Quartets\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/in-conversation-with-anna-johnston/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/sp-promo-talks-anna-johnston-v3.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260506T173000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260506T183000 DTSTAMP:20260509T154450 CREATED:20260323T001805Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T043353Z UID:71453-1778088600-1778092200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Twilight Talks: Focus on Ballarat - What We Watched Before Cinema: ‘Entertainments’ at the Mechanics’ Hall\, 1863–1919 DESCRIPTION:From the acclaimed author of Cooper Not Out comes an adventurous retelling of the first Melbourne Cup. Set in 1861 Victoria\, Good as Gold is a cracking Australian-Western that reflects our colourful history — both the good and the bad.Critically acclaimed Cooper Not Out\, described by The Herald Sun and The Daily Telegraph as a ‘five star’ read that ‘will fill your heart’\, contains an energetic spark that is doubled in Good as Gold through its complex and loveable characters. Good as Gold follows an escaped orphan\, a copper and his prisoner\, and a gang of bushrangers as they descend on Melbourne town for the Cup. Each is hoping for something different — a new beginning\, a chance to make history\, or a prize bigger than they could imagine. But only one can get the gold. Justin Smith has a personal connection to the characters he writes\, but none more than Laurence Flynn\, named after his first Australian ancestor\, an educated man who helped immigrants of the time receive licencing to work in the local mines. Justin wrote this novel with a love for westerns\, Australian history\, and a good yarn.  Good as Gold is a tale that will simultaneously transport readers to the past\, while commenting on the racism that still exists in our present. It reminds us that putting your faith into the wrong people can often lead to  trouble. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Justin Smith is a Melbourne writer\, journalist and broadcaster. He’s a columnist with the Melbourne Herald Sun and a weekly guest on Channel Seven’s Sunrise program and Sky News. Justin has had a long career in radio as a presenter and executive producer. He has hosted national programs\, he was embedded with Australian troops in Afghanistan\, and was the Drive host on Sydney’s 2UE. He’s won multiple awards for journalism and broadcasting. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Gavin McGrath Justin will be in-conversation with ABC Ballarat Journalist Gavin McGrath. After more than a decade and a half working the beat as a newspaper reporter\, Gavin McGrath brings an eye (and an ear) for what’s newsworthy\, interesting and just plain unusual in regional Australia to ABC Local Radio. Growing up in regional South Australia and Victoria\, Gavin was a relative latecomer to news journalism (he actually wanted to be a fighter pilot) but studied communications at Deakin University in Warrnambool and has since worked for the Herald Sun (five years) and The Courier in Ballarat (eight years). Prior to becoming a staff reporter\, he worked within the motoring industry and as a motorsport scribe at racetracks around Australia. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Gavin McGrath\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n In his time as a writer Gavin has taken a keen interest in local sport\, rural and farming matters\, and even returned to his first love\, driving and reviewing cars\, but hasn’t been afraid to tackle everything from politics to theatre (including a failed attempt to become Ballarat’s Phantom of the Opera. Sadly he is a terrible singer). There has also been a late run at attracting the attention of AFL football recruiters\, playing bush footy as a 40-something despite an absence of any kind of sporting ability and playing virtually no football between the ages of 15 and 39. He has even spun up some discs as a pub DJ so beware of hearing the odd pub rock tune or cheesy disco classic. Gavin takes a look at local life in Ballarat and South West Victoria each weekday between 10 and 11am\, and would love to hear your stories. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Enquiries:  Any event specific enquires should be direct to library@ballaratmi.org.au \n \n \n \n \n \n $10 per person plus booking fee & gst \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book Here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Download flyer\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Collins Booksellers\, Ballart on Lydiard will be handling book sales for the event. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Not become a member\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is a BMI Community Cultural Project – Ballarat’s Oldest Cultural Institution \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n The Marriage Trap Victoria Purman Don’t miss Victoria who will... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarta Writers – write it your way\n Stella Day Out\, Ballarat 5 November 2025 | As events... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – May 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Brian Chapman & Friends\, A Trio of Stunning Piano Quartets\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/twilight-talks-focus-on-ballarat-4/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Australian Heritage Festival,Twilight Talks ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/square-promo-2025-ellen.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260506T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260506T200000 DTSTAMP:20260509T154450 CREATED:20260302T012938Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T043305Z UID:71029-1778094000-1778097600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Kadampa Meditation Series | Love Changes Everything: How to Transform Yourself & the World Around You DESCRIPTION:From the acclaimed author of Cooper Not Out comes an adventurous retelling of the first Melbourne Cup. Set in 1861 Victoria\, Good as Gold is a cracking Australian-Western that reflects our colourful history — both the good and the bad.Critically acclaimed Cooper Not Out\, described by The Herald Sun and The Daily Telegraph as a ‘five star’ read that ‘will fill your heart’\, contains an energetic spark that is doubled in Good as Gold through its complex and loveable characters. Good as Gold follows an escaped orphan\, a copper and his prisoner\, and a gang of bushrangers as they descend on Melbourne town for the Cup. Each is hoping for something different — a new beginning\, a chance to make history\, or a prize bigger than they could imagine. But only one can get the gold. Justin Smith has a personal connection to the characters he writes\, but none more than Laurence Flynn\, named after his first Australian ancestor\, an educated man who helped immigrants of the time receive licencing to work in the local mines. Justin wrote this novel with a love for westerns\, Australian history\, and a good yarn.  Good as Gold is a tale that will simultaneously transport readers to the past\, while commenting on the racism that still exists in our present. It reminds us that putting your faith into the wrong people can often lead to  trouble. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Justin Smith is a Melbourne writer\, journalist and broadcaster. He’s a columnist with the Melbourne Herald Sun and a weekly guest on Channel Seven’s Sunrise program and Sky News. Justin has had a long career in radio as a presenter and executive producer. He has hosted national programs\, he was embedded with Australian troops in Afghanistan\, and was the Drive host on Sydney’s 2UE. He’s won multiple awards for journalism and broadcasting. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Gavin McGrath Justin will be in-conversation with ABC Ballarat Journalist Gavin McGrath. After more than a decade and a half working the beat as a newspaper reporter\, Gavin McGrath brings an eye (and an ear) for what’s newsworthy\, interesting and just plain unusual in regional Australia to ABC Local Radio. Growing up in regional South Australia and Victoria\, Gavin was a relative latecomer to news journalism (he actually wanted to be a fighter pilot) but studied communications at Deakin University in Warrnambool and has since worked for the Herald Sun (five years) and The Courier in Ballarat (eight years). Prior to becoming a staff reporter\, he worked within the motoring industry and as a motorsport scribe at racetracks around Australia. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Gavin McGrath\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n In his time as a writer Gavin has taken a keen interest in local sport\, rural and farming matters\, and even returned to his first love\, driving and reviewing cars\, but hasn’t been afraid to tackle everything from politics to theatre (including a failed attempt to become Ballarat’s Phantom of the Opera. Sadly he is a terrible singer). There has also been a late run at attracting the attention of AFL football recruiters\, playing bush footy as a 40-something despite an absence of any kind of sporting ability and playing virtually no football between the ages of 15 and 39. He has even spun up some discs as a pub DJ so beware of hearing the odd pub rock tune or cheesy disco classic. Gavin takes a look at local life in Ballarat and South West Victoria each weekday between 10 and 11am\, and would love to hear your stories. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Enquiries:  Any event specific enquires should be direct to library@ballaratmi.org.au \n \n \n \n \n \n $10 per person plus booking fee & gst \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book Here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Download flyer\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Collins Booksellers\, Ballart on Lydiard will be handling book sales for the event. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Not become a member\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is a BMI Community Cultural Project – Ballarat’s Oldest Cultural Institution \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n The Marriage Trap Victoria Purman Don’t miss Victoria who will... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarta Writers – write it your way\n Stella Day Out\, Ballarat 5 November 2025 | As events... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – May 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Brian Chapman & Friends\, A Trio of Stunning Piano Quartets\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/kadampa-meditation-series-6-may/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:kadampa ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/3-Love-Changes-BMI-Square.png ORGANIZER;CN="Kadampa Meditation":MAILTO:info@kadampa.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260508T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260508T213000 DTSTAMP:20260509T154450 CREATED:20260310T034440Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T043207Z UID:71174-1778268600-1778275800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:One Tease Rules Them All: Fellowship of the G-String - The Burlesque Parody DESCRIPTION:From the acclaimed author of Cooper Not Out comes an adventurous retelling of the first Melbourne Cup. Set in 1861 Victoria\, Good as Gold is a cracking Australian-Western that reflects our colourful history — both the good and the bad.Critically acclaimed Cooper Not Out\, described by The Herald Sun and The Daily Telegraph as a ‘five star’ read that ‘will fill your heart’\, contains an energetic spark that is doubled in Good as Gold through its complex and loveable characters. Good as Gold follows an escaped orphan\, a copper and his prisoner\, and a gang of bushrangers as they descend on Melbourne town for the Cup. Each is hoping for something different — a new beginning\, a chance to make history\, or a prize bigger than they could imagine. But only one can get the gold. Justin Smith has a personal connection to the characters he writes\, but none more than Laurence Flynn\, named after his first Australian ancestor\, an educated man who helped immigrants of the time receive licencing to work in the local mines. Justin wrote this novel with a love for westerns\, Australian history\, and a good yarn.  Good as Gold is a tale that will simultaneously transport readers to the past\, while commenting on the racism that still exists in our present. It reminds us that putting your faith into the wrong people can often lead to  trouble. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Justin Smith is a Melbourne writer\, journalist and broadcaster. He’s a columnist with the Melbourne Herald Sun and a weekly guest on Channel Seven’s Sunrise program and Sky News. Justin has had a long career in radio as a presenter and executive producer. He has hosted national programs\, he was embedded with Australian troops in Afghanistan\, and was the Drive host on Sydney’s 2UE. He’s won multiple awards for journalism and broadcasting. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Gavin McGrath Justin will be in-conversation with ABC Ballarat Journalist Gavin McGrath. After more than a decade and a half working the beat as a newspaper reporter\, Gavin McGrath brings an eye (and an ear) for what’s newsworthy\, interesting and just plain unusual in regional Australia to ABC Local Radio. Growing up in regional South Australia and Victoria\, Gavin was a relative latecomer to news journalism (he actually wanted to be a fighter pilot) but studied communications at Deakin University in Warrnambool and has since worked for the Herald Sun (five years) and The Courier in Ballarat (eight years). Prior to becoming a staff reporter\, he worked within the motoring industry and as a motorsport scribe at racetracks around Australia. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Gavin McGrath\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n In his time as a writer Gavin has taken a keen interest in local sport\, rural and farming matters\, and even returned to his first love\, driving and reviewing cars\, but hasn’t been afraid to tackle everything from politics to theatre (including a failed attempt to become Ballarat’s Phantom of the Opera. Sadly he is a terrible singer). There has also been a late run at attracting the attention of AFL football recruiters\, playing bush footy as a 40-something despite an absence of any kind of sporting ability and playing virtually no football between the ages of 15 and 39. He has even spun up some discs as a pub DJ so beware of hearing the odd pub rock tune or cheesy disco classic. Gavin takes a look at local life in Ballarat and South West Victoria each weekday between 10 and 11am\, and would love to hear your stories. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Enquiries:  Any event specific enquires should be direct to library@ballaratmi.org.au \n \n \n \n \n \n $10 per person plus booking fee & gst \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book Here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Download flyer\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Collins Booksellers\, Ballart on Lydiard will be handling book sales for the event. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Not become a member\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is a BMI Community Cultural Project – Ballarat’s Oldest Cultural Institution \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n The Marriage Trap Victoria Purman Don’t miss Victoria who will... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarta Writers – write it your way\n Stella Day Out\, Ballarat 5 November 2025 | As events... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – May 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Brian Chapman & Friends\, A Trio of Stunning Piano Quartets\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/one-tease-rules-them-all/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Theatre Production ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Sq-promo-one.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Ethereal Realm Events Co.":MAILTO:etherealrealm.eventsco@gmail.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260509T100000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260509T113000 DTSTAMP:20260509T154450 CREATED:20260121T221045Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260408T033520Z UID:70205-1778320800-1778326200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Teeny Tiny Stevies - Brain Fart Tour DESCRIPTION:From the acclaimed author of Cooper Not Out comes an adventurous retelling of the first Melbourne Cup. Set in 1861 Victoria\, Good as Gold is a cracking Australian-Western that reflects our colourful history — both the good and the bad.Critically acclaimed Cooper Not Out\, described by The Herald Sun and The Daily Telegraph as a ‘five star’ read that ‘will fill your heart’\, contains an energetic spark that is doubled in Good as Gold through its complex and loveable characters. Good as Gold follows an escaped orphan\, a copper and his prisoner\, and a gang of bushrangers as they descend on Melbourne town for the Cup. Each is hoping for something different — a new beginning\, a chance to make history\, or a prize bigger than they could imagine. But only one can get the gold. Justin Smith has a personal connection to the characters he writes\, but none more than Laurence Flynn\, named after his first Australian ancestor\, an educated man who helped immigrants of the time receive licencing to work in the local mines. Justin wrote this novel with a love for westerns\, Australian history\, and a good yarn.  Good as Gold is a tale that will simultaneously transport readers to the past\, while commenting on the racism that still exists in our present. It reminds us that putting your faith into the wrong people can often lead to  trouble. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Justin Smith is a Melbourne writer\, journalist and broadcaster. He’s a columnist with the Melbourne Herald Sun and a weekly guest on Channel Seven’s Sunrise program and Sky News. Justin has had a long career in radio as a presenter and executive producer. He has hosted national programs\, he was embedded with Australian troops in Afghanistan\, and was the Drive host on Sydney’s 2UE. He’s won multiple awards for journalism and broadcasting. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Gavin McGrath Justin will be in-conversation with ABC Ballarat Journalist Gavin McGrath. After more than a decade and a half working the beat as a newspaper reporter\, Gavin McGrath brings an eye (and an ear) for what’s newsworthy\, interesting and just plain unusual in regional Australia to ABC Local Radio. Growing up in regional South Australia and Victoria\, Gavin was a relative latecomer to news journalism (he actually wanted to be a fighter pilot) but studied communications at Deakin University in Warrnambool and has since worked for the Herald Sun (five years) and The Courier in Ballarat (eight years). Prior to becoming a staff reporter\, he worked within the motoring industry and as a motorsport scribe at racetracks around Australia. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Gavin McGrath\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n In his time as a writer Gavin has taken a keen interest in local sport\, rural and farming matters\, and even returned to his first love\, driving and reviewing cars\, but hasn’t been afraid to tackle everything from politics to theatre (including a failed attempt to become Ballarat’s Phantom of the Opera. Sadly he is a terrible singer). There has also been a late run at attracting the attention of AFL football recruiters\, playing bush footy as a 40-something despite an absence of any kind of sporting ability and playing virtually no football between the ages of 15 and 39. He has even spun up some discs as a pub DJ so beware of hearing the odd pub rock tune or cheesy disco classic. Gavin takes a look at local life in Ballarat and South West Victoria each weekday between 10 and 11am\, and would love to hear your stories. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Enquiries:  Any event specific enquires should be direct to library@ballaratmi.org.au \n \n \n \n \n \n $10 per person plus booking fee & gst \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book Here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Download flyer\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Collins Booksellers\, Ballart on Lydiard will be handling book sales for the event. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Not become a member\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is a BMI Community Cultural Project – Ballarat’s Oldest Cultural Institution \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n The Marriage Trap Victoria Purman Don’t miss Victoria who will... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarta Writers – write it your way\n Stella Day Out\, Ballarat 5 November 2025 | As events... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – May 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Brian Chapman & Friends\, A Trio of Stunning Piano Quartets\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/teeny-tiny-stevies-brain-fart-tour/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Comedy,Live Music,Theatre Production ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Square-logo-only-1920x1920-1.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260509T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260509T213000 DTSTAMP:20260509T154450 CREATED:20260310T043604Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T043048Z UID:71186-1778355000-1778362200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:One Tease Rules Them All: Fellowship of the G-String - The Burlesque Parody DESCRIPTION:From the acclaimed author of Cooper Not Out comes an adventurous retelling of the first Melbourne Cup. Set in 1861 Victoria\, Good as Gold is a cracking Australian-Western that reflects our colourful history — both the good and the bad.Critically acclaimed Cooper Not Out\, described by The Herald Sun and The Daily Telegraph as a ‘five star’ read that ‘will fill your heart’\, contains an energetic spark that is doubled in Good as Gold through its complex and loveable characters. Good as Gold follows an escaped orphan\, a copper and his prisoner\, and a gang of bushrangers as they descend on Melbourne town for the Cup. Each is hoping for something different — a new beginning\, a chance to make history\, or a prize bigger than they could imagine. But only one can get the gold. Justin Smith has a personal connection to the characters he writes\, but none more than Laurence Flynn\, named after his first Australian ancestor\, an educated man who helped immigrants of the time receive licencing to work in the local mines. Justin wrote this novel with a love for westerns\, Australian history\, and a good yarn.  Good as Gold is a tale that will simultaneously transport readers to the past\, while commenting on the racism that still exists in our present. It reminds us that putting your faith into the wrong people can often lead to  trouble. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Justin Smith is a Melbourne writer\, journalist and broadcaster. He’s a columnist with the Melbourne Herald Sun and a weekly guest on Channel Seven’s Sunrise program and Sky News. Justin has had a long career in radio as a presenter and executive producer. He has hosted national programs\, he was embedded with Australian troops in Afghanistan\, and was the Drive host on Sydney’s 2UE. He’s won multiple awards for journalism and broadcasting. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Gavin McGrath Justin will be in-conversation with ABC Ballarat Journalist Gavin McGrath. After more than a decade and a half working the beat as a newspaper reporter\, Gavin McGrath brings an eye (and an ear) for what’s newsworthy\, interesting and just plain unusual in regional Australia to ABC Local Radio. Growing up in regional South Australia and Victoria\, Gavin was a relative latecomer to news journalism (he actually wanted to be a fighter pilot) but studied communications at Deakin University in Warrnambool and has since worked for the Herald Sun (five years) and The Courier in Ballarat (eight years). Prior to becoming a staff reporter\, he worked within the motoring industry and as a motorsport scribe at racetracks around Australia. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Gavin McGrath\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n In his time as a writer Gavin has taken a keen interest in local sport\, rural and farming matters\, and even returned to his first love\, driving and reviewing cars\, but hasn’t been afraid to tackle everything from politics to theatre (including a failed attempt to become Ballarat’s Phantom of the Opera. Sadly he is a terrible singer). There has also been a late run at attracting the attention of AFL football recruiters\, playing bush footy as a 40-something despite an absence of any kind of sporting ability and playing virtually no football between the ages of 15 and 39. He has even spun up some discs as a pub DJ so beware of hearing the odd pub rock tune or cheesy disco classic. Gavin takes a look at local life in Ballarat and South West Victoria each weekday between 10 and 11am\, and would love to hear your stories. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Enquiries:  Any event specific enquires should be direct to library@ballaratmi.org.au \n \n \n \n \n \n $10 per person plus booking fee & gst \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book Here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Download flyer\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Collins Booksellers\, Ballart on Lydiard will be handling book sales for the event. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Not become a member\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is a BMI Community Cultural Project – Ballarat’s Oldest Cultural Institution \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n The Marriage Trap Victoria Purman Don’t miss Victoria who will... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarta Writers – write it your way\n Stella Day Out\, Ballarat 5 November 2025 | As events... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – May 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Brian Chapman & Friends\, A Trio of Stunning Piano Quartets\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/one-tease-rules-them-all-2/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Theatre Production ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Sq-promo-one.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Ethereal Realm Events Co.":MAILTO:etherealrealm.eventsco@gmail.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260511T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260511T193000 DTSTAMP:20260509T154450 CREATED:20260316T013945Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T043011Z UID:71295-1778522400-1778527800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with Victoria Purman DESCRIPTION:From the acclaimed author of Cooper Not Out comes an adventurous retelling of the first Melbourne Cup. Set in 1861 Victoria\, Good as Gold is a cracking Australian-Western that reflects our colourful history — both the good and the bad.Critically acclaimed Cooper Not Out\, described by The Herald Sun and The Daily Telegraph as a ‘five star’ read that ‘will fill your heart’\, contains an energetic spark that is doubled in Good as Gold through its complex and loveable characters. Good as Gold follows an escaped orphan\, a copper and his prisoner\, and a gang of bushrangers as they descend on Melbourne town for the Cup. Each is hoping for something different — a new beginning\, a chance to make history\, or a prize bigger than they could imagine. But only one can get the gold. Justin Smith has a personal connection to the characters he writes\, but none more than Laurence Flynn\, named after his first Australian ancestor\, an educated man who helped immigrants of the time receive licencing to work in the local mines. Justin wrote this novel with a love for westerns\, Australian history\, and a good yarn.  Good as Gold is a tale that will simultaneously transport readers to the past\, while commenting on the racism that still exists in our present. It reminds us that putting your faith into the wrong people can often lead to  trouble. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Justin Smith is a Melbourne writer\, journalist and broadcaster. He’s a columnist with the Melbourne Herald Sun and a weekly guest on Channel Seven’s Sunrise program and Sky News. Justin has had a long career in radio as a presenter and executive producer. He has hosted national programs\, he was embedded with Australian troops in Afghanistan\, and was the Drive host on Sydney’s 2UE. He’s won multiple awards for journalism and broadcasting. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Gavin McGrath Justin will be in-conversation with ABC Ballarat Journalist Gavin McGrath. After more than a decade and a half working the beat as a newspaper reporter\, Gavin McGrath brings an eye (and an ear) for what’s newsworthy\, interesting and just plain unusual in regional Australia to ABC Local Radio. Growing up in regional South Australia and Victoria\, Gavin was a relative latecomer to news journalism (he actually wanted to be a fighter pilot) but studied communications at Deakin University in Warrnambool and has since worked for the Herald Sun (five years) and The Courier in Ballarat (eight years). Prior to becoming a staff reporter\, he worked within the motoring industry and as a motorsport scribe at racetracks around Australia. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Gavin McGrath\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n In his time as a writer Gavin has taken a keen interest in local sport\, rural and farming matters\, and even returned to his first love\, driving and reviewing cars\, but hasn’t been afraid to tackle everything from politics to theatre (including a failed attempt to become Ballarat’s Phantom of the Opera. Sadly he is a terrible singer). There has also been a late run at attracting the attention of AFL football recruiters\, playing bush footy as a 40-something despite an absence of any kind of sporting ability and playing virtually no football between the ages of 15 and 39. He has even spun up some discs as a pub DJ so beware of hearing the odd pub rock tune or cheesy disco classic. Gavin takes a look at local life in Ballarat and South West Victoria each weekday between 10 and 11am\, and would love to hear your stories. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Enquiries:  Any event specific enquires should be direct to library@ballaratmi.org.au \n \n \n \n \n \n $10 per person plus booking fee & gst \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book Here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Download flyer\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Collins Booksellers\, Ballart on Lydiard will be handling book sales for the event. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Not become a member\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is a BMI Community Cultural Project – Ballarat’s Oldest Cultural Institution \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n The Marriage Trap Victoria Purman Don’t miss Victoria who will... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarta Writers – write it your way\n Stella Day Out\, Ballarat 5 November 2025 | As events... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – May 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Brian Chapman & Friends\, A Trio of Stunning Piano Quartets\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/victoria-purman/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/sp-promo-talks-victoria-purman.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260512T140000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261208T150000 DTSTAMP:20260509T154450 CREATED:20250527T054132Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260507T043645Z UID:65238-1778594400-1796742000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Day Tours of the Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute - Each Tuesday DESCRIPTION:From the acclaimed author of Cooper Not Out comes an adventurous retelling of the first Melbourne Cup. Set in 1861 Victoria\, Good as Gold is a cracking Australian-Western that reflects our colourful history — both the good and the bad.Critically acclaimed Cooper Not Out\, described by The Herald Sun and The Daily Telegraph as a ‘five star’ read that ‘will fill your heart’\, contains an energetic spark that is doubled in Good as Gold through its complex and loveable characters. Good as Gold follows an escaped orphan\, a copper and his prisoner\, and a gang of bushrangers as they descend on Melbourne town for the Cup. Each is hoping for something different — a new beginning\, a chance to make history\, or a prize bigger than they could imagine. But only one can get the gold. Justin Smith has a personal connection to the characters he writes\, but none more than Laurence Flynn\, named after his first Australian ancestor\, an educated man who helped immigrants of the time receive licencing to work in the local mines. Justin wrote this novel with a love for westerns\, Australian history\, and a good yarn.  Good as Gold is a tale that will simultaneously transport readers to the past\, while commenting on the racism that still exists in our present. It reminds us that putting your faith into the wrong people can often lead to  trouble. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Justin Smith is a Melbourne writer\, journalist and broadcaster. He’s a columnist with the Melbourne Herald Sun and a weekly guest on Channel Seven’s Sunrise program and Sky News. Justin has had a long career in radio as a presenter and executive producer. He has hosted national programs\, he was embedded with Australian troops in Afghanistan\, and was the Drive host on Sydney’s 2UE. He’s won multiple awards for journalism and broadcasting. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Gavin McGrath Justin will be in-conversation with ABC Ballarat Journalist Gavin McGrath. After more than a decade and a half working the beat as a newspaper reporter\, Gavin McGrath brings an eye (and an ear) for what’s newsworthy\, interesting and just plain unusual in regional Australia to ABC Local Radio. Growing up in regional South Australia and Victoria\, Gavin was a relative latecomer to news journalism (he actually wanted to be a fighter pilot) but studied communications at Deakin University in Warrnambool and has since worked for the Herald Sun (five years) and The Courier in Ballarat (eight years). Prior to becoming a staff reporter\, he worked within the motoring industry and as a motorsport scribe at racetracks around Australia. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Gavin McGrath\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n In his time as a writer Gavin has taken a keen interest in local sport\, rural and farming matters\, and even returned to his first love\, driving and reviewing cars\, but hasn’t been afraid to tackle everything from politics to theatre (including a failed attempt to become Ballarat’s Phantom of the Opera. Sadly he is a terrible singer). There has also been a late run at attracting the attention of AFL football recruiters\, playing bush footy as a 40-something despite an absence of any kind of sporting ability and playing virtually no football between the ages of 15 and 39. He has even spun up some discs as a pub DJ so beware of hearing the odd pub rock tune or cheesy disco classic. Gavin takes a look at local life in Ballarat and South West Victoria each weekday between 10 and 11am\, and would love to hear your stories. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Enquiries:  Any event specific enquires should be direct to library@ballaratmi.org.au \n \n \n \n \n \n $10 per person plus booking fee & gst \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book Here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Download flyer\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Collins Booksellers\, Ballart on Lydiard will be handling book sales for the event. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Not become a member\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is a BMI Community Cultural Project – Ballarat’s Oldest Cultural Institution \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n The Marriage Trap Victoria Purman Don’t miss Victoria who will... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarta Writers – write it your way\n Stella Day Out\, Ballarat 5 November 2025 | As events... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – May 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Brian Chapman & Friends\, A Trio of Stunning Piano Quartets\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/day-tours-ballarat-26/ LOCATION:Library Ground Floor\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Ballarat Heritage Festival,Ballarat Winter Festival,Festival,Fundraiser,Important Dates,Tours ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/building-tours-sq-promo.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260513T183000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260513T200000 DTSTAMP:20260509T154450 CREATED:20260303T011741Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T041831Z UID:71063-1778697000-1778702400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:In Conversation with Kerri Rogan DESCRIPTION:From the acclaimed author of Cooper Not Out comes an adventurous retelling of the first Melbourne Cup. Set in 1861 Victoria\, Good as Gold is a cracking Australian-Western that reflects our colourful history — both the good and the bad.Critically acclaimed Cooper Not Out\, described by The Herald Sun and The Daily Telegraph as a ‘five star’ read that ‘will fill your heart’\, contains an energetic spark that is doubled in Good as Gold through its complex and loveable characters. Good as Gold follows an escaped orphan\, a copper and his prisoner\, and a gang of bushrangers as they descend on Melbourne town for the Cup. Each is hoping for something different — a new beginning\, a chance to make history\, or a prize bigger than they could imagine. But only one can get the gold. Justin Smith has a personal connection to the characters he writes\, but none more than Laurence Flynn\, named after his first Australian ancestor\, an educated man who helped immigrants of the time receive licencing to work in the local mines. Justin wrote this novel with a love for westerns\, Australian history\, and a good yarn.  Good as Gold is a tale that will simultaneously transport readers to the past\, while commenting on the racism that still exists in our present. It reminds us that putting your faith into the wrong people can often lead to  trouble. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Justin Smith is a Melbourne writer\, journalist and broadcaster. He’s a columnist with the Melbourne Herald Sun and a weekly guest on Channel Seven’s Sunrise program and Sky News. Justin has had a long career in radio as a presenter and executive producer. He has hosted national programs\, he was embedded with Australian troops in Afghanistan\, and was the Drive host on Sydney’s 2UE. He’s won multiple awards for journalism and broadcasting. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Gavin McGrath Justin will be in-conversation with ABC Ballarat Journalist Gavin McGrath. After more than a decade and a half working the beat as a newspaper reporter\, Gavin McGrath brings an eye (and an ear) for what’s newsworthy\, interesting and just plain unusual in regional Australia to ABC Local Radio. Growing up in regional South Australia and Victoria\, Gavin was a relative latecomer to news journalism (he actually wanted to be a fighter pilot) but studied communications at Deakin University in Warrnambool and has since worked for the Herald Sun (five years) and The Courier in Ballarat (eight years). Prior to becoming a staff reporter\, he worked within the motoring industry and as a motorsport scribe at racetracks around Australia. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Gavin McGrath\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n In his time as a writer Gavin has taken a keen interest in local sport\, rural and farming matters\, and even returned to his first love\, driving and reviewing cars\, but hasn’t been afraid to tackle everything from politics to theatre (including a failed attempt to become Ballarat’s Phantom of the Opera. Sadly he is a terrible singer). There has also been a late run at attracting the attention of AFL football recruiters\, playing bush footy as a 40-something despite an absence of any kind of sporting ability and playing virtually no football between the ages of 15 and 39. He has even spun up some discs as a pub DJ so beware of hearing the odd pub rock tune or cheesy disco classic. Gavin takes a look at local life in Ballarat and South West Victoria each weekday between 10 and 11am\, and would love to hear your stories. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Enquiries:  Any event specific enquires should be direct to library@ballaratmi.org.au \n \n \n \n \n \n $10 per person plus booking fee & gst \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book Here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Download flyer\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Collins Booksellers\, Ballart on Lydiard will be handling book sales for the event. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Not become a member\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is a BMI Community Cultural Project – Ballarat’s Oldest Cultural Institution \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n The Marriage Trap Victoria Purman Don’t miss Victoria who will... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarta Writers – write it your way\n Stella Day Out\, Ballarat 5 November 2025 | As events... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – May 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Brian Chapman & Friends\, A Trio of Stunning Piano Quartets\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/in-conversation-with-kerri-rogan/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Author Talk,Library ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/sp-promo-talks-v3.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260513T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260513T200000 DTSTAMP:20260509T154450 CREATED:20260302T013053Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T041747Z UID:71031-1778698800-1778702400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Kadampa Meditation Series | Love Changes Everything: How to Transform Yourself & the World Around You DESCRIPTION:From the acclaimed author of Cooper Not Out comes an adventurous retelling of the first Melbourne Cup. Set in 1861 Victoria\, Good as Gold is a cracking Australian-Western that reflects our colourful history — both the good and the bad.Critically acclaimed Cooper Not Out\, described by The Herald Sun and The Daily Telegraph as a ‘five star’ read that ‘will fill your heart’\, contains an energetic spark that is doubled in Good as Gold through its complex and loveable characters. Good as Gold follows an escaped orphan\, a copper and his prisoner\, and a gang of bushrangers as they descend on Melbourne town for the Cup. Each is hoping for something different — a new beginning\, a chance to make history\, or a prize bigger than they could imagine. But only one can get the gold. Justin Smith has a personal connection to the characters he writes\, but none more than Laurence Flynn\, named after his first Australian ancestor\, an educated man who helped immigrants of the time receive licencing to work in the local mines. Justin wrote this novel with a love for westerns\, Australian history\, and a good yarn.  Good as Gold is a tale that will simultaneously transport readers to the past\, while commenting on the racism that still exists in our present. It reminds us that putting your faith into the wrong people can often lead to  trouble. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Justin Smith is a Melbourne writer\, journalist and broadcaster. He’s a columnist with the Melbourne Herald Sun and a weekly guest on Channel Seven’s Sunrise program and Sky News. Justin has had a long career in radio as a presenter and executive producer. He has hosted national programs\, he was embedded with Australian troops in Afghanistan\, and was the Drive host on Sydney’s 2UE. He’s won multiple awards for journalism and broadcasting. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Gavin McGrath Justin will be in-conversation with ABC Ballarat Journalist Gavin McGrath. After more than a decade and a half working the beat as a newspaper reporter\, Gavin McGrath brings an eye (and an ear) for what’s newsworthy\, interesting and just plain unusual in regional Australia to ABC Local Radio. Growing up in regional South Australia and Victoria\, Gavin was a relative latecomer to news journalism (he actually wanted to be a fighter pilot) but studied communications at Deakin University in Warrnambool and has since worked for the Herald Sun (five years) and The Courier in Ballarat (eight years). Prior to becoming a staff reporter\, he worked within the motoring industry and as a motorsport scribe at racetracks around Australia. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Gavin McGrath\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n In his time as a writer Gavin has taken a keen interest in local sport\, rural and farming matters\, and even returned to his first love\, driving and reviewing cars\, but hasn’t been afraid to tackle everything from politics to theatre (including a failed attempt to become Ballarat’s Phantom of the Opera. Sadly he is a terrible singer). There has also been a late run at attracting the attention of AFL football recruiters\, playing bush footy as a 40-something despite an absence of any kind of sporting ability and playing virtually no football between the ages of 15 and 39. He has even spun up some discs as a pub DJ so beware of hearing the odd pub rock tune or cheesy disco classic. Gavin takes a look at local life in Ballarat and South West Victoria each weekday between 10 and 11am\, and would love to hear your stories. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Enquiries:  Any event specific enquires should be direct to library@ballaratmi.org.au \n \n \n \n \n \n $10 per person plus booking fee & gst \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book Here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Download flyer\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Collins Booksellers\, Ballart on Lydiard will be handling book sales for the event. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Not become a member\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is a BMI Community Cultural Project – Ballarat’s Oldest Cultural Institution \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n The Marriage Trap Victoria Purman Don’t miss Victoria who will... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarta Writers – write it your way\n Stella Day Out\, Ballarat 5 November 2025 | As events... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – May 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Brian Chapman & Friends\, A Trio of Stunning Piano Quartets\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/kadampa-meditation-series-13-may/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:kadampa ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/3-Love-Changes-BMI-Square.png ORGANIZER;CN="Kadampa Meditation":MAILTO:info@kadampa.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260514T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260514T210000 DTSTAMP:20260509T154450 CREATED:20260129T041334Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260409T035403Z UID:70407-1778787000-1778792400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Ballarat Film Society | Black Dog DESCRIPTION:From the acclaimed author of Cooper Not Out comes an adventurous retelling of the first Melbourne Cup. Set in 1861 Victoria\, Good as Gold is a cracking Australian-Western that reflects our colourful history — both the good and the bad.Critically acclaimed Cooper Not Out\, described by The Herald Sun and The Daily Telegraph as a ‘five star’ read that ‘will fill your heart’\, contains an energetic spark that is doubled in Good as Gold through its complex and loveable characters. Good as Gold follows an escaped orphan\, a copper and his prisoner\, and a gang of bushrangers as they descend on Melbourne town for the Cup. Each is hoping for something different — a new beginning\, a chance to make history\, or a prize bigger than they could imagine. But only one can get the gold. Justin Smith has a personal connection to the characters he writes\, but none more than Laurence Flynn\, named after his first Australian ancestor\, an educated man who helped immigrants of the time receive licencing to work in the local mines. Justin wrote this novel with a love for westerns\, Australian history\, and a good yarn.  Good as Gold is a tale that will simultaneously transport readers to the past\, while commenting on the racism that still exists in our present. It reminds us that putting your faith into the wrong people can often lead to  trouble. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Justin Smith is a Melbourne writer\, journalist and broadcaster. He’s a columnist with the Melbourne Herald Sun and a weekly guest on Channel Seven’s Sunrise program and Sky News. Justin has had a long career in radio as a presenter and executive producer. He has hosted national programs\, he was embedded with Australian troops in Afghanistan\, and was the Drive host on Sydney’s 2UE. He’s won multiple awards for journalism and broadcasting. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Gavin McGrath Justin will be in-conversation with ABC Ballarat Journalist Gavin McGrath. After more than a decade and a half working the beat as a newspaper reporter\, Gavin McGrath brings an eye (and an ear) for what’s newsworthy\, interesting and just plain unusual in regional Australia to ABC Local Radio. Growing up in regional South Australia and Victoria\, Gavin was a relative latecomer to news journalism (he actually wanted to be a fighter pilot) but studied communications at Deakin University in Warrnambool and has since worked for the Herald Sun (five years) and The Courier in Ballarat (eight years). Prior to becoming a staff reporter\, he worked within the motoring industry and as a motorsport scribe at racetracks around Australia. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Gavin McGrath\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n In his time as a writer Gavin has taken a keen interest in local sport\, rural and farming matters\, and even returned to his first love\, driving and reviewing cars\, but hasn’t been afraid to tackle everything from politics to theatre (including a failed attempt to become Ballarat’s Phantom of the Opera. Sadly he is a terrible singer). There has also been a late run at attracting the attention of AFL football recruiters\, playing bush footy as a 40-something despite an absence of any kind of sporting ability and playing virtually no football between the ages of 15 and 39. He has even spun up some discs as a pub DJ so beware of hearing the odd pub rock tune or cheesy disco classic. Gavin takes a look at local life in Ballarat and South West Victoria each weekday between 10 and 11am\, and would love to hear your stories. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Enquiries:  Any event specific enquires should be direct to library@ballaratmi.org.au \n \n \n \n \n \n $10 per person plus booking fee & gst \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book Here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Download flyer\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Collins Booksellers\, Ballart on Lydiard will be handling book sales for the event. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Not become a member\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is a BMI Community Cultural Project – Ballarat’s Oldest Cultural Institution \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n The Marriage Trap Victoria Purman Don’t miss Victoria who will... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarta Writers – write it your way\n Stella Day Out\, Ballarat 5 November 2025 | As events... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – May 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Brian Chapman & Friends\, A Trio of Stunning Piano Quartets\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/ballarat-film-society-black-dog/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Ballarat Film Society,Film ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/black-dog-sq-promo.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260516T083000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260516T180000 DTSTAMP:20260509T154450 CREATED:20260128T044603Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T035919Z UID:70338-1778920200-1778954400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Victorian Occult Conference DESCRIPTION:From the acclaimed author of Cooper Not Out comes an adventurous retelling of the first Melbourne Cup. Set in 1861 Victoria\, Good as Gold is a cracking Australian-Western that reflects our colourful history — both the good and the bad.Critically acclaimed Cooper Not Out\, described by The Herald Sun and The Daily Telegraph as a ‘five star’ read that ‘will fill your heart’\, contains an energetic spark that is doubled in Good as Gold through its complex and loveable characters. Good as Gold follows an escaped orphan\, a copper and his prisoner\, and a gang of bushrangers as they descend on Melbourne town for the Cup. Each is hoping for something different — a new beginning\, a chance to make history\, or a prize bigger than they could imagine. But only one can get the gold. Justin Smith has a personal connection to the characters he writes\, but none more than Laurence Flynn\, named after his first Australian ancestor\, an educated man who helped immigrants of the time receive licencing to work in the local mines. Justin wrote this novel with a love for westerns\, Australian history\, and a good yarn.  Good as Gold is a tale that will simultaneously transport readers to the past\, while commenting on the racism that still exists in our present. It reminds us that putting your faith into the wrong people can often lead to  trouble. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Justin Smith is a Melbourne writer\, journalist and broadcaster. He’s a columnist with the Melbourne Herald Sun and a weekly guest on Channel Seven’s Sunrise program and Sky News. Justin has had a long career in radio as a presenter and executive producer. He has hosted national programs\, he was embedded with Australian troops in Afghanistan\, and was the Drive host on Sydney’s 2UE. He’s won multiple awards for journalism and broadcasting. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Gavin McGrath Justin will be in-conversation with ABC Ballarat Journalist Gavin McGrath. After more than a decade and a half working the beat as a newspaper reporter\, Gavin McGrath brings an eye (and an ear) for what’s newsworthy\, interesting and just plain unusual in regional Australia to ABC Local Radio. Growing up in regional South Australia and Victoria\, Gavin was a relative latecomer to news journalism (he actually wanted to be a fighter pilot) but studied communications at Deakin University in Warrnambool and has since worked for the Herald Sun (five years) and The Courier in Ballarat (eight years). Prior to becoming a staff reporter\, he worked within the motoring industry and as a motorsport scribe at racetracks around Australia. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Gavin McGrath\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n In his time as a writer Gavin has taken a keen interest in local sport\, rural and farming matters\, and even returned to his first love\, driving and reviewing cars\, but hasn’t been afraid to tackle everything from politics to theatre (including a failed attempt to become Ballarat’s Phantom of the Opera. Sadly he is a terrible singer). There has also been a late run at attracting the attention of AFL football recruiters\, playing bush footy as a 40-something despite an absence of any kind of sporting ability and playing virtually no football between the ages of 15 and 39. He has even spun up some discs as a pub DJ so beware of hearing the odd pub rock tune or cheesy disco classic. Gavin takes a look at local life in Ballarat and South West Victoria each weekday between 10 and 11am\, and would love to hear your stories. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Enquiries:  Any event specific enquires should be direct to library@ballaratmi.org.au \n \n \n \n \n \n $10 per person plus booking fee & gst \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book Here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Download flyer\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Collins Booksellers\, Ballart on Lydiard will be handling book sales for the event. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Not become a member\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is a BMI Community Cultural Project – Ballarat’s Oldest Cultural Institution \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n The Marriage Trap Victoria Purman Don’t miss Victoria who will... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarta Writers – write it your way\n Stella Day Out\, Ballarat 5 November 2025 | As events... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – May 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Brian Chapman & Friends\, A Trio of Stunning Piano Quartets\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/victorian-occult-conference/ LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350 CATEGORIES:Conference ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/sq-promo-vic-occult.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260519T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260519T200000 DTSTAMP:20260509T154450 CREATED:20260310T001332Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T035527Z UID:71137-1779217200-1779220800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Minerva's Secrets | Night Tour DESCRIPTION:From the acclaimed author of Cooper Not Out comes an adventurous retelling of the first Melbourne Cup. Set in 1861 Victoria\, Good as Gold is a cracking Australian-Western that reflects our colourful history — both the good and the bad.Critically acclaimed Cooper Not Out\, described by The Herald Sun and The Daily Telegraph as a ‘five star’ read that ‘will fill your heart’\, contains an energetic spark that is doubled in Good as Gold through its complex and loveable characters. Good as Gold follows an escaped orphan\, a copper and his prisoner\, and a gang of bushrangers as they descend on Melbourne town for the Cup. Each is hoping for something different — a new beginning\, a chance to make history\, or a prize bigger than they could imagine. But only one can get the gold. Justin Smith has a personal connection to the characters he writes\, but none more than Laurence Flynn\, named after his first Australian ancestor\, an educated man who helped immigrants of the time receive licencing to work in the local mines. Justin wrote this novel with a love for westerns\, Australian history\, and a good yarn.  Good as Gold is a tale that will simultaneously transport readers to the past\, while commenting on the racism that still exists in our present. It reminds us that putting your faith into the wrong people can often lead to  trouble. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Justin Smith is a Melbourne writer\, journalist and broadcaster. He’s a columnist with the Melbourne Herald Sun and a weekly guest on Channel Seven’s Sunrise program and Sky News. Justin has had a long career in radio as a presenter and executive producer. He has hosted national programs\, he was embedded with Australian troops in Afghanistan\, and was the Drive host on Sydney’s 2UE. He’s won multiple awards for journalism and broadcasting. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Gavin McGrath Justin will be in-conversation with ABC Ballarat Journalist Gavin McGrath. After more than a decade and a half working the beat as a newspaper reporter\, Gavin McGrath brings an eye (and an ear) for what’s newsworthy\, interesting and just plain unusual in regional Australia to ABC Local Radio. Growing up in regional South Australia and Victoria\, Gavin was a relative latecomer to news journalism (he actually wanted to be a fighter pilot) but studied communications at Deakin University in Warrnambool and has since worked for the Herald Sun (five years) and The Courier in Ballarat (eight years). Prior to becoming a staff reporter\, he worked within the motoring industry and as a motorsport scribe at racetracks around Australia. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Gavin McGrath\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n In his time as a writer Gavin has taken a keen interest in local sport\, rural and farming matters\, and even returned to his first love\, driving and reviewing cars\, but hasn’t been afraid to tackle everything from politics to theatre (including a failed attempt to become Ballarat’s Phantom of the Opera. Sadly he is a terrible singer). There has also been a late run at attracting the attention of AFL football recruiters\, playing bush footy as a 40-something despite an absence of any kind of sporting ability and playing virtually no football between the ages of 15 and 39. He has even spun up some discs as a pub DJ so beware of hearing the odd pub rock tune or cheesy disco classic. Gavin takes a look at local life in Ballarat and South West Victoria each weekday between 10 and 11am\, and would love to hear your stories. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Enquiries:  Any event specific enquires should be direct to library@ballaratmi.org.au \n \n \n \n \n \n $10 per person plus booking fee & gst \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book Here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Download flyer\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Collins Booksellers\, Ballart on Lydiard will be handling book sales for the event. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Not become a member\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is a BMI Community Cultural Project – Ballarat’s Oldest Cultural Institution \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n The Marriage Trap Victoria Purman Don’t miss Victoria who will... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarta Writers – write it your way\n Stella Day Out\, Ballarat 5 November 2025 | As events... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – May 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Brian Chapman & Friends\, A Trio of Stunning Piano Quartets\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/minervas-secrets-night-tour-19-may-26/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Australian Heritage Festival,Important Dates,Night Tours,Tours ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/received_908662326866361-e1708918930337.jpeg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260519T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260519T203000 DTSTAMP:20260509T154450 CREATED:20260414T044444Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260418T054257Z UID:72157-1779219000-1779222600@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Lantern Vaults | Special Preview DESCRIPTION:From the acclaimed author of Cooper Not Out comes an adventurous retelling of the first Melbourne Cup. Set in 1861 Victoria\, Good as Gold is a cracking Australian-Western that reflects our colourful history — both the good and the bad.Critically acclaimed Cooper Not Out\, described by The Herald Sun and The Daily Telegraph as a ‘five star’ read that ‘will fill your heart’\, contains an energetic spark that is doubled in Good as Gold through its complex and loveable characters. Good as Gold follows an escaped orphan\, a copper and his prisoner\, and a gang of bushrangers as they descend on Melbourne town for the Cup. Each is hoping for something different — a new beginning\, a chance to make history\, or a prize bigger than they could imagine. But only one can get the gold. Justin Smith has a personal connection to the characters he writes\, but none more than Laurence Flynn\, named after his first Australian ancestor\, an educated man who helped immigrants of the time receive licencing to work in the local mines. Justin wrote this novel with a love for westerns\, Australian history\, and a good yarn.  Good as Gold is a tale that will simultaneously transport readers to the past\, while commenting on the racism that still exists in our present. It reminds us that putting your faith into the wrong people can often lead to  trouble. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Justin Smith is a Melbourne writer\, journalist and broadcaster. He’s a columnist with the Melbourne Herald Sun and a weekly guest on Channel Seven’s Sunrise program and Sky News. Justin has had a long career in radio as a presenter and executive producer. He has hosted national programs\, he was embedded with Australian troops in Afghanistan\, and was the Drive host on Sydney’s 2UE. He’s won multiple awards for journalism and broadcasting. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Gavin McGrath Justin will be in-conversation with ABC Ballarat Journalist Gavin McGrath. After more than a decade and a half working the beat as a newspaper reporter\, Gavin McGrath brings an eye (and an ear) for what’s newsworthy\, interesting and just plain unusual in regional Australia to ABC Local Radio. Growing up in regional South Australia and Victoria\, Gavin was a relative latecomer to news journalism (he actually wanted to be a fighter pilot) but studied communications at Deakin University in Warrnambool and has since worked for the Herald Sun (five years) and The Courier in Ballarat (eight years). Prior to becoming a staff reporter\, he worked within the motoring industry and as a motorsport scribe at racetracks around Australia. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Gavin McGrath\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n In his time as a writer Gavin has taken a keen interest in local sport\, rural and farming matters\, and even returned to his first love\, driving and reviewing cars\, but hasn’t been afraid to tackle everything from politics to theatre (including a failed attempt to become Ballarat’s Phantom of the Opera. Sadly he is a terrible singer). There has also been a late run at attracting the attention of AFL football recruiters\, playing bush footy as a 40-something despite an absence of any kind of sporting ability and playing virtually no football between the ages of 15 and 39. He has even spun up some discs as a pub DJ so beware of hearing the odd pub rock tune or cheesy disco classic. Gavin takes a look at local life in Ballarat and South West Victoria each weekday between 10 and 11am\, and would love to hear your stories. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Enquiries:  Any event specific enquires should be direct to library@ballaratmi.org.au \n \n \n \n \n \n $10 per person plus booking fee & gst \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book Here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Download flyer\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Collins Booksellers\, Ballart on Lydiard will be handling book sales for the event. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Not become a member\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is a BMI Community Cultural Project – Ballarat’s Oldest Cultural Institution \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n The Marriage Trap Victoria Purman Don’t miss Victoria who will... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarta Writers – write it your way\n Stella Day Out\, Ballarat 5 November 2025 | As events... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – May 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Brian Chapman & Friends\, A Trio of Stunning Piano Quartets\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/lantern-vaults-preview/ LOCATION:The Basement\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Art programs,Ballarat Heritage Festival,Important Dates ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/sq-promo-events-lantern-vaults.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260519T210000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260519T220000 DTSTAMP:20260509T154450 CREATED:20260310T002124Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T044437Z UID:71139-1779224400-1779228000@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Minerva's Secrets | Night Tour DESCRIPTION:From the acclaimed author of Cooper Not Out comes an adventurous retelling of the first Melbourne Cup. Set in 1861 Victoria\, Good as Gold is a cracking Australian-Western that reflects our colourful history — both the good and the bad.Critically acclaimed Cooper Not Out\, described by The Herald Sun and The Daily Telegraph as a ‘five star’ read that ‘will fill your heart’\, contains an energetic spark that is doubled in Good as Gold through its complex and loveable characters. Good as Gold follows an escaped orphan\, a copper and his prisoner\, and a gang of bushrangers as they descend on Melbourne town for the Cup. Each is hoping for something different — a new beginning\, a chance to make history\, or a prize bigger than they could imagine. But only one can get the gold. Justin Smith has a personal connection to the characters he writes\, but none more than Laurence Flynn\, named after his first Australian ancestor\, an educated man who helped immigrants of the time receive licencing to work in the local mines. Justin wrote this novel with a love for westerns\, Australian history\, and a good yarn.  Good as Gold is a tale that will simultaneously transport readers to the past\, while commenting on the racism that still exists in our present. It reminds us that putting your faith into the wrong people can often lead to  trouble. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Justin Smith is a Melbourne writer\, journalist and broadcaster. He’s a columnist with the Melbourne Herald Sun and a weekly guest on Channel Seven’s Sunrise program and Sky News. Justin has had a long career in radio as a presenter and executive producer. He has hosted national programs\, he was embedded with Australian troops in Afghanistan\, and was the Drive host on Sydney’s 2UE. He’s won multiple awards for journalism and broadcasting. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Gavin McGrath Justin will be in-conversation with ABC Ballarat Journalist Gavin McGrath. After more than a decade and a half working the beat as a newspaper reporter\, Gavin McGrath brings an eye (and an ear) for what’s newsworthy\, interesting and just plain unusual in regional Australia to ABC Local Radio. Growing up in regional South Australia and Victoria\, Gavin was a relative latecomer to news journalism (he actually wanted to be a fighter pilot) but studied communications at Deakin University in Warrnambool and has since worked for the Herald Sun (five years) and The Courier in Ballarat (eight years). Prior to becoming a staff reporter\, he worked within the motoring industry and as a motorsport scribe at racetracks around Australia. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Gavin McGrath\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n In his time as a writer Gavin has taken a keen interest in local sport\, rural and farming matters\, and even returned to his first love\, driving and reviewing cars\, but hasn’t been afraid to tackle everything from politics to theatre (including a failed attempt to become Ballarat’s Phantom of the Opera. Sadly he is a terrible singer). There has also been a late run at attracting the attention of AFL football recruiters\, playing bush footy as a 40-something despite an absence of any kind of sporting ability and playing virtually no football between the ages of 15 and 39. He has even spun up some discs as a pub DJ so beware of hearing the odd pub rock tune or cheesy disco classic. Gavin takes a look at local life in Ballarat and South West Victoria each weekday between 10 and 11am\, and would love to hear your stories. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Enquiries:  Any event specific enquires should be direct to library@ballaratmi.org.au \n \n \n \n \n \n $10 per person plus booking fee & gst \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book Here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Download flyer\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Collins Booksellers\, Ballart on Lydiard will be handling book sales for the event. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Not become a member\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is a BMI Community Cultural Project – Ballarat’s Oldest Cultural Institution \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n The Marriage Trap Victoria Purman Don’t miss Victoria who will... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarta Writers – write it your way\n Stella Day Out\, Ballarat 5 November 2025 | As events... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – May 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Brian Chapman & Friends\, A Trio of Stunning Piano Quartets\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/minervas-secrets-night-tour-18-may-26-2/ LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Australian Heritage Festival,Important Dates,Night Tours,Tours ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/received_265285705882698-e1708919200874.jpeg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260520T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260520T200000 DTSTAMP:20260509T154450 CREATED:20260509T053122Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260509T053401Z UID:72861-1779303600-1779307200@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Kadampa Meditation Series | From Anxiety to Action: Tools to Reclaim Your Life DESCRIPTION:From the acclaimed author of Cooper Not Out comes an adventurous retelling of the first Melbourne Cup. Set in 1861 Victoria\, Good as Gold is a cracking Australian-Western that reflects our colourful history — both the good and the bad.Critically acclaimed Cooper Not Out\, described by The Herald Sun and The Daily Telegraph as a ‘five star’ read that ‘will fill your heart’\, contains an energetic spark that is doubled in Good as Gold through its complex and loveable characters. Good as Gold follows an escaped orphan\, a copper and his prisoner\, and a gang of bushrangers as they descend on Melbourne town for the Cup. Each is hoping for something different — a new beginning\, a chance to make history\, or a prize bigger than they could imagine. But only one can get the gold. Justin Smith has a personal connection to the characters he writes\, but none more than Laurence Flynn\, named after his first Australian ancestor\, an educated man who helped immigrants of the time receive licencing to work in the local mines. Justin wrote this novel with a love for westerns\, Australian history\, and a good yarn.  Good as Gold is a tale that will simultaneously transport readers to the past\, while commenting on the racism that still exists in our present. It reminds us that putting your faith into the wrong people can often lead to  trouble. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Justin Smith is a Melbourne writer\, journalist and broadcaster. He’s a columnist with the Melbourne Herald Sun and a weekly guest on Channel Seven’s Sunrise program and Sky News. Justin has had a long career in radio as a presenter and executive producer. He has hosted national programs\, he was embedded with Australian troops in Afghanistan\, and was the Drive host on Sydney’s 2UE. He’s won multiple awards for journalism and broadcasting. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Gavin McGrath Justin will be in-conversation with ABC Ballarat Journalist Gavin McGrath. After more than a decade and a half working the beat as a newspaper reporter\, Gavin McGrath brings an eye (and an ear) for what’s newsworthy\, interesting and just plain unusual in regional Australia to ABC Local Radio. Growing up in regional South Australia and Victoria\, Gavin was a relative latecomer to news journalism (he actually wanted to be a fighter pilot) but studied communications at Deakin University in Warrnambool and has since worked for the Herald Sun (five years) and The Courier in Ballarat (eight years). Prior to becoming a staff reporter\, he worked within the motoring industry and as a motorsport scribe at racetracks around Australia. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Gavin McGrath\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n In his time as a writer Gavin has taken a keen interest in local sport\, rural and farming matters\, and even returned to his first love\, driving and reviewing cars\, but hasn’t been afraid to tackle everything from politics to theatre (including a failed attempt to become Ballarat’s Phantom of the Opera. Sadly he is a terrible singer). There has also been a late run at attracting the attention of AFL football recruiters\, playing bush footy as a 40-something despite an absence of any kind of sporting ability and playing virtually no football between the ages of 15 and 39. He has even spun up some discs as a pub DJ so beware of hearing the odd pub rock tune or cheesy disco classic. Gavin takes a look at local life in Ballarat and South West Victoria each weekday between 10 and 11am\, and would love to hear your stories. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Enquiries:  Any event specific enquires should be direct to library@ballaratmi.org.au \n \n \n \n \n \n $10 per person plus booking fee & gst \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book Here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Download flyer\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Collins Booksellers\, Ballart on Lydiard will be handling book sales for the event. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Not become a member\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is a BMI Community Cultural Project – Ballarat’s Oldest Cultural Institution \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n The Marriage Trap Victoria Purman Don’t miss Victoria who will... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarta Writers – write it your way\n Stella Day Out\, Ballarat 5 November 2025 | As events... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – May 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Brian Chapman & Friends\, A Trio of Stunning Piano Quartets\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/kadampa-meditation-series-from-anxiety-to-action-tools-to-reclaim-your-life/ LOCATION:Lending Library\, Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Victoria\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:kadampa ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/4-From_Anxiety_to_Action_Square.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Kadampa Meditation":MAILTO:info@kadampa.org.au END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260521T100000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260524T160000 DTSTAMP:20260509T154450 CREATED:20260418T053218Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260425T062535Z UID:72320-1779357600-1779638400@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Lantern Vaults DESCRIPTION:From the acclaimed author of Cooper Not Out comes an adventurous retelling of the first Melbourne Cup. Set in 1861 Victoria\, Good as Gold is a cracking Australian-Western that reflects our colourful history — both the good and the bad.Critically acclaimed Cooper Not Out\, described by The Herald Sun and The Daily Telegraph as a ‘five star’ read that ‘will fill your heart’\, contains an energetic spark that is doubled in Good as Gold through its complex and loveable characters. Good as Gold follows an escaped orphan\, a copper and his prisoner\, and a gang of bushrangers as they descend on Melbourne town for the Cup. Each is hoping for something different — a new beginning\, a chance to make history\, or a prize bigger than they could imagine. But only one can get the gold. Justin Smith has a personal connection to the characters he writes\, but none more than Laurence Flynn\, named after his first Australian ancestor\, an educated man who helped immigrants of the time receive licencing to work in the local mines. Justin wrote this novel with a love for westerns\, Australian history\, and a good yarn.  Good as Gold is a tale that will simultaneously transport readers to the past\, while commenting on the racism that still exists in our present. It reminds us that putting your faith into the wrong people can often lead to  trouble. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Justin Smith is a Melbourne writer\, journalist and broadcaster. He’s a columnist with the Melbourne Herald Sun and a weekly guest on Channel Seven’s Sunrise program and Sky News. Justin has had a long career in radio as a presenter and executive producer. He has hosted national programs\, he was embedded with Australian troops in Afghanistan\, and was the Drive host on Sydney’s 2UE. He’s won multiple awards for journalism and broadcasting. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Gavin McGrath Justin will be in-conversation with ABC Ballarat Journalist Gavin McGrath. After more than a decade and a half working the beat as a newspaper reporter\, Gavin McGrath brings an eye (and an ear) for what’s newsworthy\, interesting and just plain unusual in regional Australia to ABC Local Radio. Growing up in regional South Australia and Victoria\, Gavin was a relative latecomer to news journalism (he actually wanted to be a fighter pilot) but studied communications at Deakin University in Warrnambool and has since worked for the Herald Sun (five years) and The Courier in Ballarat (eight years). Prior to becoming a staff reporter\, he worked within the motoring industry and as a motorsport scribe at racetracks around Australia. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Gavin McGrath\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n In his time as a writer Gavin has taken a keen interest in local sport\, rural and farming matters\, and even returned to his first love\, driving and reviewing cars\, but hasn’t been afraid to tackle everything from politics to theatre (including a failed attempt to become Ballarat’s Phantom of the Opera. Sadly he is a terrible singer). There has also been a late run at attracting the attention of AFL football recruiters\, playing bush footy as a 40-something despite an absence of any kind of sporting ability and playing virtually no football between the ages of 15 and 39. He has even spun up some discs as a pub DJ so beware of hearing the odd pub rock tune or cheesy disco classic. Gavin takes a look at local life in Ballarat and South West Victoria each weekday between 10 and 11am\, and would love to hear your stories. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Enquiries:  Any event specific enquires should be direct to library@ballaratmi.org.au \n \n \n \n \n \n $10 per person plus booking fee & gst \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book Here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Download flyer\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Collins Booksellers\, Ballart on Lydiard will be handling book sales for the event. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Not become a member\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is a BMI Community Cultural Project – Ballarat’s Oldest Cultural Institution \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n The Marriage Trap Victoria Purman Don’t miss Victoria who will... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarta Writers – write it your way\n Stella Day Out\, Ballarat 5 November 2025 | As events... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – May 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Brian Chapman & Friends\, A Trio of Stunning Piano Quartets\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/lantern-vaults/ LOCATION:BMI – Multiple Spaces\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Art programs,Ballarat Heritage Festival,Important Dates ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/sq-promo-events-lantern-vaults.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260521T113000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260524T121500 DTSTAMP:20260509T154450 CREATED:20260421T025952Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260507T043547Z UID:72387-1779363000-1779624900@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Ballarat Heritage Festival - Tours of the Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute DESCRIPTION:From the acclaimed author of Cooper Not Out comes an adventurous retelling of the first Melbourne Cup. Set in 1861 Victoria\, Good as Gold is a cracking Australian-Western that reflects our colourful history — both the good and the bad.Critically acclaimed Cooper Not Out\, described by The Herald Sun and The Daily Telegraph as a ‘five star’ read that ‘will fill your heart’\, contains an energetic spark that is doubled in Good as Gold through its complex and loveable characters. Good as Gold follows an escaped orphan\, a copper and his prisoner\, and a gang of bushrangers as they descend on Melbourne town for the Cup. Each is hoping for something different — a new beginning\, a chance to make history\, or a prize bigger than they could imagine. But only one can get the gold. Justin Smith has a personal connection to the characters he writes\, but none more than Laurence Flynn\, named after his first Australian ancestor\, an educated man who helped immigrants of the time receive licencing to work in the local mines. Justin wrote this novel with a love for westerns\, Australian history\, and a good yarn.  Good as Gold is a tale that will simultaneously transport readers to the past\, while commenting on the racism that still exists in our present. It reminds us that putting your faith into the wrong people can often lead to  trouble. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Justin Smith is a Melbourne writer\, journalist and broadcaster. He’s a columnist with the Melbourne Herald Sun and a weekly guest on Channel Seven’s Sunrise program and Sky News. Justin has had a long career in radio as a presenter and executive producer. He has hosted national programs\, he was embedded with Australian troops in Afghanistan\, and was the Drive host on Sydney’s 2UE. He’s won multiple awards for journalism and broadcasting. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Gavin McGrath Justin will be in-conversation with ABC Ballarat Journalist Gavin McGrath. After more than a decade and a half working the beat as a newspaper reporter\, Gavin McGrath brings an eye (and an ear) for what’s newsworthy\, interesting and just plain unusual in regional Australia to ABC Local Radio. Growing up in regional South Australia and Victoria\, Gavin was a relative latecomer to news journalism (he actually wanted to be a fighter pilot) but studied communications at Deakin University in Warrnambool and has since worked for the Herald Sun (five years) and The Courier in Ballarat (eight years). Prior to becoming a staff reporter\, he worked within the motoring industry and as a motorsport scribe at racetracks around Australia. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Gavin McGrath\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n In his time as a writer Gavin has taken a keen interest in local sport\, rural and farming matters\, and even returned to his first love\, driving and reviewing cars\, but hasn’t been afraid to tackle everything from politics to theatre (including a failed attempt to become Ballarat’s Phantom of the Opera. Sadly he is a terrible singer). There has also been a late run at attracting the attention of AFL football recruiters\, playing bush footy as a 40-something despite an absence of any kind of sporting ability and playing virtually no football between the ages of 15 and 39. He has even spun up some discs as a pub DJ so beware of hearing the odd pub rock tune or cheesy disco classic. Gavin takes a look at local life in Ballarat and South West Victoria each weekday between 10 and 11am\, and would love to hear your stories. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Enquiries:  Any event specific enquires should be direct to library@ballaratmi.org.au \n \n \n \n \n \n $10 per person plus booking fee & gst \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book Here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Download flyer\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Collins Booksellers\, Ballart on Lydiard will be handling book sales for the event. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Not become a member\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is a BMI Community Cultural Project – Ballarat’s Oldest Cultural Institution \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n The Marriage Trap Victoria Purman Don’t miss Victoria who will... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarta Writers – write it your way\n Stella Day Out\, Ballarat 5 November 2025 | As events... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – May 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Brian Chapman & Friends\, A Trio of Stunning Piano Quartets\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/ballarat-heritage-festival-tours/ LOCATION:Meet in the Foyer\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, Australia CATEGORIES:Ballarat Heritage Festival,Important Dates,Tours ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/sq-promo-day-tours.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260522T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260522T203000 DTSTAMP:20260509T154450 CREATED:20260318T041021Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260413T065647Z UID:71379-1779476400-1779481800@ballaratmi.org.au SUMMARY:Panic from the Sky: A Call of Cthulhu Advenure DESCRIPTION:From the acclaimed author of Cooper Not Out comes an adventurous retelling of the first Melbourne Cup. Set in 1861 Victoria\, Good as Gold is a cracking Australian-Western that reflects our colourful history — both the good and the bad.Critically acclaimed Cooper Not Out\, described by The Herald Sun and The Daily Telegraph as a ‘five star’ read that ‘will fill your heart’\, contains an energetic spark that is doubled in Good as Gold through its complex and loveable characters. Good as Gold follows an escaped orphan\, a copper and his prisoner\, and a gang of bushrangers as they descend on Melbourne town for the Cup. Each is hoping for something different — a new beginning\, a chance to make history\, or a prize bigger than they could imagine. But only one can get the gold. Justin Smith has a personal connection to the characters he writes\, but none more than Laurence Flynn\, named after his first Australian ancestor\, an educated man who helped immigrants of the time receive licencing to work in the local mines. Justin wrote this novel with a love for westerns\, Australian history\, and a good yarn.  Good as Gold is a tale that will simultaneously transport readers to the past\, while commenting on the racism that still exists in our present. It reminds us that putting your faith into the wrong people can often lead to  trouble. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Justin Smith is a Melbourne writer\, journalist and broadcaster. He’s a columnist with the Melbourne Herald Sun and a weekly guest on Channel Seven’s Sunrise program and Sky News. Justin has had a long career in radio as a presenter and executive producer. He has hosted national programs\, he was embedded with Australian troops in Afghanistan\, and was the Drive host on Sydney’s 2UE. He’s won multiple awards for journalism and broadcasting. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Gavin McGrath Justin will be in-conversation with ABC Ballarat Journalist Gavin McGrath. After more than a decade and a half working the beat as a newspaper reporter\, Gavin McGrath brings an eye (and an ear) for what’s newsworthy\, interesting and just plain unusual in regional Australia to ABC Local Radio. Growing up in regional South Australia and Victoria\, Gavin was a relative latecomer to news journalism (he actually wanted to be a fighter pilot) but studied communications at Deakin University in Warrnambool and has since worked for the Herald Sun (five years) and The Courier in Ballarat (eight years). Prior to becoming a staff reporter\, he worked within the motoring industry and as a motorsport scribe at racetracks around Australia. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Gavin McGrath\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n In his time as a writer Gavin has taken a keen interest in local sport\, rural and farming matters\, and even returned to his first love\, driving and reviewing cars\, but hasn’t been afraid to tackle everything from politics to theatre (including a failed attempt to become Ballarat’s Phantom of the Opera. Sadly he is a terrible singer). There has also been a late run at attracting the attention of AFL football recruiters\, playing bush footy as a 40-something despite an absence of any kind of sporting ability and playing virtually no football between the ages of 15 and 39. He has even spun up some discs as a pub DJ so beware of hearing the odd pub rock tune or cheesy disco classic. Gavin takes a look at local life in Ballarat and South West Victoria each weekday between 10 and 11am\, and would love to hear your stories. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Enquiries:  Any event specific enquires should be direct to library@ballaratmi.org.au \n \n \n \n \n \n $10 per person plus booking fee & gst \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book Here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Download flyer\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Collins Booksellers\, Ballart on Lydiard will be handling book sales for the event. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Not become a member\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This event is a BMI Community Cultural Project – Ballarat’s Oldest Cultural Institution \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rosemary’s Book of the Week\n The Marriage Trap Victoria Purman Don’t miss Victoria who will... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ballarta Writers – write it your way\n Stella Day Out\, Ballarat 5 November 2025 | As events... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Newsletter – May 2026\n Rosemary's New Releases and Recommendations | Author Talks - Live... \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Brian Chapman & Friends\, A Trio of Stunning Piano Quartets\n New Releases\, Recommendations & Author Talks \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Load More URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/panic-in-the-sky/ LOCATION:BMI – Humffray Room\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia CATEGORIES:Ballarat Heritage Festival,Theatre Production ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Ufo-picture-only-for-ATDW-Tales-from-Rat-City-David-Waldron.jpg END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR