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DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260612T190000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260612T200000
DTSTAMP:20260404T105426
CREATED:20260310T005733Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T035038Z
UID:71141-1781290800-1781294400@ballaratmi.org.au
SUMMARY:Minerva's Secrets | Night Tour
DESCRIPTION:April 24\n@\n7:00 pm\n–\n8:00 pm \n$27.50 \nMeet at the BMI entrance  \n\nGet Tickets\n \nExplore tales of the weird and supernatural – the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute at night. Looking for a unique way to explore Ballarat’s rich history and culture? Look no further than the Ballaarat Mechanics Institute’s Night Tours! \nThis beautiful heritage building dates back to the 1860s and boasts a fascinating history that is just waiting to be explored. During these tours\, you’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the history of the Ballaarat Mechanics Institute\, exploring the library’s impressive collection of rare books and manuscripts\, and learn about the building’s original purpose as a hub for scientific and technological education. And make sure to check out the basement\, which is steeped in mystery and intrigue – you never know what secrets you might uncover! \nKatrina Hill & Tim Harris | Photo: Jess Schroeter\nWhether you’re a local looking to discover more about your city’s history\, or a visitor seeking a unique and memorable experience\, the Ballaarat Mechanics Institute’s Night Tours are not to be missed. \nLed by expert guides who are passionate about the building’s history\, these tours will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the rich cultural heritage of Ballarat. Book your tickets today and get ready to step back in time! \nThe tours have a small capacity\, and therefore\, numbers are limited. \nGroup bookings are available – please contact our Tours Coordinator – Katrina Hill \nNote | Accessibility \nMost of this tour is wheelchair accessible\, however the tour does include entry into the BMI Basement\, which is not wheelchair accessible. The tour does involve stairs\, however a lift is available throughout (except to the basement). This tour is not Auslan interpreted\, and the guide does not use any amplification system. Tour groups will enter dimly lit areas of the building under supervision of the guide. \nBMI Accessibility information can be found at https://ballaratmi.org.au/accessibility \nCost / Bookings:  $28.69 includes gst & booking fee \n\nGet Tickets\n\n \nMore Tours\n \nThe research material for your tour has been drawn from – Under Minerva’s Gaze: 150 years at the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute (edited by Jill Blee and Phil Roberts). \nThis reference material is available for purchase at the Library or can be purchased via our Shop. \n\nUnder Minerva’s Gaze\n\n \nThis event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land.
URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/minervas-secrets-night-tour-12-jun-26/
LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia
CATEGORIES: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:20260612T210000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260612T220000
DTSTAMP:20260404T105426
CREATED:20260310T010115Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T035008Z
UID:71143-1781298000-1781301600@ballaratmi.org.au
SUMMARY:Minerva's Secrets | Night Tour
DESCRIPTION:October 31\n@\n9:00 pm\n–\n10:00 pm \n$27.50 \nMeet at the BMI entrance  \n\nGet Tickets\n \nExplore tales of the weird and supernatural – the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute at night. Looking for a unique way to explore Ballarat’s rich history and culture? Look no further than the Ballaarat Mechanics Institute’s Night Tours! \nThis beautiful heritage building dates back to the 1860s and boasts a fascinating history that is just waiting to be explored. During these tours\, you’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the history of the Ballaarat Mechanics Institute\, exploring the library’s impressive collection of rare books and manuscripts\, and learn about the building’s original purpose as a hub for scientific and technological education. And make sure to check out the basement\, which is steeped in mystery and intrigue – you never know what secrets you might uncover! \nKatrina Hill & Tim Harris | Photo: Jess Schroeter\nWhether you’re a local looking to discover more about your city’s history\, or a visitor seeking a unique and memorable experience\, the Ballaarat Mechanics Institute’s Night Tours are not to be missed. \nLed by expert guides who are passionate about the building’s history\, these tours will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the rich cultural heritage of Ballarat. Book your tickets today and get ready to step back in time! \nThe tours have a small capacity\, and therefore\, numbers are limited. \nGroup bookings are available – please contact our Tours Coordinator – Katrina Hill \nNote | Accessibility \nMost of this tour is wheelchair accessible\, however the tour does include entry into the BMI Basement\, which is not wheelchair accessible. The tour does involve stairs\, however a lift is available throughout (except to the basement). This tour is not Auslan interpreted\, and the guide does not use any amplification system. Tour groups will enter dimly lit areas of the building under supervision of the guide. \nBMI Accessibility information can be found at https://ballaratmi.org.au/accessibility \nCost / Bookings:  $28.69 includes gst & booking fee \n\nGet Tickets\n\n \nMore Tours\n \nThe research material for your tour has been drawn from – Under Minerva’s Gaze: 150 years at the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute (edited by Jill Blee and Phil Roberts). \nThis reference material is available for purchase at the Library or can be purchased via our Shop. \n\nUnder Minerva’s Gaze\n\n \nThis event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land.
URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/minervas-secrets-night-tour-12-jun-26-2/
LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia
CATEGORIES: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:20260623T180000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260623T193000
DTSTAMP:20260404T105426
CREATED:20260313T005434Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T034824Z
UID:71257-1782237600-1782243000@ballaratmi.org.au
SUMMARY:In Conversation with Mark Smith
DESCRIPTION:June 23\n@\n6:00 pm\n–\n7:30 pm \n$11.78 \nHumffray Room \n\nGet Tickets\n \nWhere Truth Ends \nMark Smith \n \nWhat if everything you believed in was a lie? Truth and betrayal collide in the new Mark Smith thriller\, perfect for fans of Christian White and Lisa Jewell. \nMeg Maher thought she was doing the right thing. Now she’s on the run. \nWhen a peaceful climate protest ends with a violent explosion in the city centre\, every anonymous member of the group becomes a suspect.\n \nBut the authorities aren’t the only ones hunting Meg. \nScared and alone\, Meg seeks refuge with her father\, Luke\, knowing that every word she says puts him in danger too. But as the terrorism investigation closes in\, Meg is forced to question her friends\, her cause\, even herself. Was the non-violent activist group infiltrated from the start? Or has someone twisted their mission beyond recognition? \nWhat happens when the truth is the first thing to burn? \nWhere Truth Ends is a taut\, character-driven thriller by award-winning author of Three Boys Gone\, about when the fight for change becomes a fight for survival. \n \nAbout the author \n\nMark Smith is the author of five novels\, including his critically acclaimed Winter Trilogy. The Road to Winter was shortlisted for multiple awards and is taught in schools around Australia. The sequel\, Wilder Country won the 2018 Australian Indie Book Award for YA. His first adult novel\, Three Boys Gone\, was published in 2025 and his second\, Where Truth Ends\, will be released in May 2026. \nAn award-winning writer of short fiction\, Mark’s work has appeared in Best Australian Stories\, Review of Australian Fiction\, The Big Issue\, The Victorian Writer\, Island and The Australian. \nMark is also an in-demand speaker at schools and an experienced facilitator at festivals and book launches. \n\n\n\n \nThis event will be supported by Collins Booksellers on Lydiard \n \n$11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. \n\nBook on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n\nGet Tickets\n\n \nThis event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land.
URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/mark-smith-2/
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-mark-smith.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260710T110000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260710T125000
DTSTAMP:20260404T105426
CREATED:20250930T001641Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T034727Z
UID:67766-1783681200-1783687800@ballaratmi.org.au
SUMMARY:21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner Brooke\, a THEATRE 180 production | SOLD OUT
DESCRIPTION:Due to popular demand we have a second matinee on Saturday 11 July \n\nJuly 10\n@\n11:00 am\n–\n12:50 pm \n$38.50 – $77 \nMinerva Theatre \n\n\nGet Tickets\n \nFriday 10 July\, two sessions: 11am  & 7pm – Due to popular demand we now have a Saturday Morning session at 11am \n \nWritten by Jenny Davis \nA compelling true story from WWII\, honouring the bravery strength\, love and hope of Australian Army Nurses\nin the face of adversity. \nDirected by Stuart Halusz \nFeaturing Caitlin Beresford-Ord\, Rebecca Davis\, Michelle Fornasier\, Alex Jones\, Tegan Mulvany and Helen Searle. \nVivian Bullwinkel was one of 65 Australian nurses who boarded the Vyner Brooke in an attempt to flee the Japanese invasion of Singapore in February\, 1942. Bombed by Japanese fighter planes and after spending days at sea\, she and some other survivors found their way to Radji Beach on Banka Island where they surrendered. \nIn one of the most atrocious acts of war crimes in our history\, 22 nurses were forced to march into the sea where they were callously machine gunned. \nThe only survivor and witness\, Vivian spent the rest of the war in a prison camp before liberation\, and her remaining years fighting for recognition of the bravery of her friends and colleagues; their strength and courage in the face of death sustaining her for the rest of her illustrious life. \n21 Hearts relays the resilient Aussie humour displayed by the women in the camp and provides a respectful and authentic voice to those who were silenced\, remembering them for who they were and not just for what happened to them. \nA story of hope\, courage\, resilience and heart. \nFeaturing 6 of WA’s most outstanding actors\, 21 Hearts is a celebration of the human spirit and an uplifting\, inspiring story which reminds us of the great futility of war. \n   \nTHEATRE 180 \nTHEATRE 180 is a proudly Western Australian company which tours works throughout the state and beyond\, sharing heritage stories of Western Australia and our nation’s past to gain an insight into who we are now and our future as a diverse and vibrant multicultural society. In 2023 we were awarded a Western Australian Heritage Award for Contributions by a Community Based Organisation for our work in telling WA stories and in 2024 we were awarded Producer of the Year at the CircuitWest Showcase WA Awards. \nTHEATRE 180 is committed to regional touring and playing to audiences in Perth’s metro and outer metro venues\, as well as activating found spaces and established theatres. We are proud to be part of the Preston Street Arts Collective\, helping to revitalise the beautiful Como Theatre as a cultural anchor for the City of South Perth\, welcoming audiences from far and wide to experience our CinePlay genre\, an ensemble approach incorporating the immediacy of live theatre with the visual impact of cinema\, for an immersive and unique live experience. This exciting genre is versatile\, agile and adaptable\, able to be presented in a pop-up style in venues as diverse as theatres\, cinemas\, country Town Halls and Recreation Centres. \nThis world-first genre was created with CinemaStage in 2020 for our award-winning adaptation of A.B. Facey’s A Fortunate Life (by Jenny Davis and Stuart Halusz)\, which has toured continuously throughout Western Australia and amassed nearly 160 performances so far\, including a tour to QLD. We now having 5 plays in repertoire\, including SYDNEY II: Lost and Found (by Jenny Davis)\, The Lighthouse Girl Saga (by Jenny Davis and Hellie Turner)\, Taking Liberty (by Ingle Knight – a collaboration with WA Museum) and 21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner Brooke (by Jenny Davis). The response to this work from around the nation has led to 4 Perth seasons\, a WA regional tour and a season at the Australian War Memorial\, Canberra in July/August this year. All seasons of 21 Hearts have sold-out in advance. \nThis year we collaborated with Government House Foundation on our 6th CinePlay production Arthur Haynes and the Smoking Gun (by Jenny Davis) which had a sold-out season at Government House Ballroom in September and our 7th CinePlay is a collaboration with WA Museum CATALPA: Flight to Freedom (by Jenny Davis) in October/November.\nOver the last 6 years\, we have also established a loyal following for our choice of gritty\, international plays staged at Burt Memorial Hall\, with our critically acclaimed productions of Lucy Kirkwood’s The Children\, Joe Penhall’s BLUE/ORANGE and Lauren Gunderson’s I AND YOU\, proving a demand for this exciting style of theatre with a strong audience database.\nWe continue our long history of conducting intergenerational oral history workshops with communities and working closely with Aged Care facilities in creating bespoke cultural events and programs with their residents and families; our award-winning work with dementia patients has been particularly impactful. This oral history work extends to veterans’ organisations such as Legacy WA and Buddy Up Australia. \nTHEATRE 180’s unique style of writing has been honed over 3 decades\, and we are committed to the development of emerging WA writers through our Emerging Writers Program who are able to carry on this important storytelling legacy. Central to our purpose is sharing these stories to all Western Australians; our productions are built to tour\, and we believe that geography is no barrier. With our strong audience relationships and large network of venues in outer metro and regional WA\, we look towards the next 30 years and the stories they hold. \n  \nVivian Bulwinkel\nTickets: $77 adults\, $71.50 Concession\, $38.50 Children (12yrs – 17yrs)\, $66 Group (minimum of 10 tickets)\, School Booking $25 (Teacher Free). Ticket sales close 1 hour prior to the performance. \n\nGet Tickets\n\n \nRunning Time: 110 min \nTHEATRE 180 Production \n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \nThis event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land.
URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/21-hearts/
LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350
CATEGORIES:Theatre Production
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/sq-promo-21-hearts.webp
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260710T190000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260710T205000
DTSTAMP:20260404T105426
CREATED:20251001T031523Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T034644Z
UID:67817-1783710000-1783716600@ballaratmi.org.au
SUMMARY:21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner Brooke\, a THEATRE 180 production
DESCRIPTION:Due to popular demand we have a second matinee on Saturday \n\nJuly 10\n@\n7:00 pm\n–\n8:50 pm \n$38.50 – $77 \nMinerva Theatre \n\n\nGet Tickets\n\n \nWritten by Jenny Davis \nA compelling true story from WWII\, honouring the bravery strength\, love and hope of Australian Army Nurses\nin the face of adversity. \nDirected by Stuart Halusz \nFeaturing Caitlin Beresford-Ord\, Rebecca Davis\, Michelle Fornasier\, Alex Jones\, Tegan Mulvany and Helen Searle. \nVivian Bullwinkel was one of 65 Australian nurses who boarded the Vyner Brooke in an attempt to flee the Japanese invasion of Singapore in February\, 1942. Bombed by Japanese fighter planes and after spending days at sea\, she and some other survivors found their way to Radji Beach on Banka Island where they surrendered. \nIn one of the most atrocious acts of war crimes in our history\, 22 nurses were forced to march into the sea where they were callously machine gunned. \nThe only survivor and witness\, Vivian spent the rest of the war in a prison camp before liberation\, and her remaining years fighting for recognition of the bravery of her friends and colleagues; their strength and courage in the face of death sustaining her for the rest of her illustrious life. \n21 Hearts relays the resilient Aussie humour displayed by the women in the camp and provides a respectful and authentic voice to those who were silenced\, remembering them for who they were and not just for what happened to them. \nA story of hope\, courage\, resilience and heart. \nFeaturing 6 of WA’s most outstanding actors\, 21 Hearts is a celebration of the human spirit and an uplifting\, inspiring story which reminds us of the great futility of war. \n   \nTHEATRE 180 \nTHEATRE 180 is a proudly Western Australian company which tours works throughout the state and beyond\, sharing heritage stories of Western Australia and our nation’s past to gain an insight into who we are now and our future as a diverse and vibrant multicultural society. In 2023 we were awarded a Western Australian Heritage Award for Contributions by a Community Based Organisation for our work in telling WA stories and in 2024 we were awarded Producer of the Year at the CircuitWest Showcase WA Awards. \nTHEATRE 180 is committed to regional touring and playing to audiences in Perth’s metro and outer metro venues\, as well as activating found spaces and established theatres. We are proud to be part of the Preston Street Arts Collective\, helping to revitalise the beautiful Como Theatre as a cultural anchor for the City of South Perth\, welcoming audiences from far and wide to experience our CinePlay genre\, an ensemble approach incorporating the immediacy of live theatre with the visual impact of cinema\, for an immersive and unique live experience. This exciting genre is versatile\, agile and adaptable\, able to be presented in a pop-up style in venues as diverse as theatres\, cinemas\, country Town Halls and Recreation Centres. \nThis world-first genre was created with CinemaStage in 2020 for our award-winning adaptation of A.B. Facey’s A Fortunate Life (by Jenny Davis and Stuart Halusz)\, which has toured continuously throughout Western Australia and amassed nearly 160 performances so far\, including a tour to QLD. We now having 5 plays in repertoire\, including SYDNEY II: Lost and Found (by Jenny Davis)\, The Lighthouse Girl Saga (by Jenny Davis and Hellie Turner)\, Taking Liberty (by Ingle Knight – a collaboration with WA Museum) and 21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner Brooke (by Jenny Davis). The response to this work from around the nation has led to 4 Perth seasons\, a WA regional tour and a season at the Australian War Memorial\, Canberra in July/August this year. All seasons of 21 Hearts have sold-out in advance. \nThis year we collaborated with Government House Foundation on our 6th CinePlay production Arthur Haynes and the Smoking Gun (by Jenny Davis) which had a sold-out season at Government House Ballroom in September and our 7th CinePlay is a collaboration with WA Museum CATALPA: Flight to Freedom (by Jenny Davis) in October/November.\nOver the last 6 years\, we have also established a loyal following for our choice of gritty\, international plays staged at Burt Memorial Hall\, with our critically acclaimed productions of Lucy Kirkwood’s The Children\, Joe Penhall’s BLUE/ORANGE and Lauren Gunderson’s I AND YOU\, proving a demand for this exciting style of theatre with a strong audience database.\nWe continue our long history of conducting intergenerational oral history workshops with communities and working closely with Aged Care facilities in creating bespoke cultural events and programs with their residents and families; our award-winning work with dementia patients has been particularly impactful. This oral history work extends to veterans’ organisations such as Legacy WA and Buddy Up Australia. \nTHEATRE 180’s unique style of writing has been honed over 3 decades\, and we are committed to the development of emerging WA writers through our Emerging Writers Program who are able to carry on this important storytelling legacy. Central to our purpose is sharing these stories to all Western Australians; our productions are built to tour\, and we believe that geography is no barrier. With our strong audience relationships and large network of venues in outer metro and regional WA\, we look towards the next 30 years and the stories they hold. \n  \nVivian Bulwinkel\nTickets: $77 adults\, $71.50 Concession\, $38.50 Children (12yrs – 17yrs)\, $66 Group (minimum of 10 tickets)\, School Booking $25 (Teacher Free). Ticket sales close 1 hour prior to the performance. \n\nGet Tickets\n\n \nRunning Time: 110 min \nTHEATRE 180 Production \n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \nThis event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land.
URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/21-hearts-2/
LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350
CATEGORIES:Theatre Production
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/sq-promo-21-hearts.webp
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260711T110000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260711T125000
DTSTAMP:20260404T105426
CREATED:20260212T045959Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T034613Z
UID:70689-1783767600-1783774200@ballaratmi.org.au
SUMMARY:21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner Brooke\, a THEATRE 180 production
DESCRIPTION:July 11\n@\n11:00 am\n–\n12:50 pm \n$38.50 – $77 \nMinerva Theatre \n\n\nGet Tickets\n \nThis 11am Saturday session has been added due to popular demand. \n \nWritten by Jenny Davis \nA compelling true story from WWII\, honouring the bravery strength\, love and hope of Australian Army Nurses\nin the face of adversity. \nDirected by Stuart Halusz \nFeaturing Caitlin Beresford-Ord\, Rebecca Davis\, Michelle Fornasier\, Alex Jones\, Tegan Mulvany and Helen Searle. \nVivian Bullwinkel was one of 65 Australian nurses who boarded the Vyner Brooke in an attempt to flee the Japanese invasion of Singapore in February\, 1942. Bombed by Japanese fighter planes and after spending days at sea\, she and some other survivors found their way to Radji Beach on Banka Island where they surrendered. \nIn one of the most atrocious acts of war crimes in our history\, 22 nurses were forced to march into the sea where they were callously machine gunned. \nThe only survivor and witness\, Vivian spent the rest of the war in a prison camp before liberation\, and her remaining years fighting for recognition of the bravery of her friends and colleagues; their strength and courage in the face of death sustaining her for the rest of her illustrious life. \n21 Hearts relays the resilient Aussie humour displayed by the women in the camp and provides a respectful and authentic voice to those who were silenced\, remembering them for who they were and not just for what happened to them. \nA story of hope\, courage\, resilience and heart. \nFeaturing 6 of WA’s most outstanding actors\, 21 Hearts is a celebration of the human spirit and an uplifting\, inspiring story which reminds us of the great futility of war. \n   \nTHEATRE 180 \nTHEATRE 180 is a proudly Western Australian company which tours works throughout the state and beyond\, sharing heritage stories of Western Australia and our nation’s past to gain an insight into who we are now and our future as a diverse and vibrant multicultural society. In 2023 we were awarded a Western Australian Heritage Award for Contributions by a Community Based Organisation for our work in telling WA stories and in 2024 we were awarded Producer of the Year at the CircuitWest Showcase WA Awards. \nTHEATRE 180 is committed to regional touring and playing to audiences in Perth’s metro and outer metro venues\, as well as activating found spaces and established theatres. We are proud to be part of the Preston Street Arts Collective\, helping to revitalise the beautiful Como Theatre as a cultural anchor for the City of South Perth\, welcoming audiences from far and wide to experience our CinePlay genre\, an ensemble approach incorporating the immediacy of live theatre with the visual impact of cinema\, for an immersive and unique live experience. This exciting genre is versatile\, agile and adaptable\, able to be presented in a pop-up style in venues as diverse as theatres\, cinemas\, country Town Halls and Recreation Centres. \nThis world-first genre was created with CinemaStage in 2020 for our award-winning adaptation of A.B. Facey’s A Fortunate Life (by Jenny Davis and Stuart Halusz)\, which has toured continuously throughout Western Australia and amassed nearly 160 performances so far\, including a tour to QLD. We now having 5 plays in repertoire\, including SYDNEY II: Lost and Found (by Jenny Davis)\, The Lighthouse Girl Saga (by Jenny Davis and Hellie Turner)\, Taking Liberty (by Ingle Knight – a collaboration with WA Museum) and 21 HEARTS: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner Brooke (by Jenny Davis). The response to this work from around the nation has led to 4 Perth seasons\, a WA regional tour and a season at the Australian War Memorial\, Canberra in July/August this year. All seasons of 21 Hearts have sold-out in advance. \nThis year we collaborated with Government House Foundation on our 6th CinePlay production Arthur Haynes and the Smoking Gun (by Jenny Davis) which had a sold-out season at Government House Ballroom in September and our 7th CinePlay is a collaboration with WA Museum CATALPA: Flight to Freedom (by Jenny Davis) in October/November.\nOver the last 6 years\, we have also established a loyal following for our choice of gritty\, international plays staged at Burt Memorial Hall\, with our critically acclaimed productions of Lucy Kirkwood’s The Children\, Joe Penhall’s BLUE/ORANGE and Lauren Gunderson’s I AND YOU\, proving a demand for this exciting style of theatre with a strong audience database.\nWe continue our long history of conducting intergenerational oral history workshops with communities and working closely with Aged Care facilities in creating bespoke cultural events and programs with their residents and families; our award-winning work with dementia patients has been particularly impactful. This oral history work extends to veterans’ organisations such as Legacy WA and Buddy Up Australia. \nTHEATRE 180’s unique style of writing has been honed over 3 decades\, and we are committed to the development of emerging WA writers through our Emerging Writers Program who are able to carry on this important storytelling legacy. Central to our purpose is sharing these stories to all Western Australians; our productions are built to tour\, and we believe that geography is no barrier. With our strong audience relationships and large network of venues in outer metro and regional WA\, we look towards the next 30 years and the stories they hold. \n  \nVivian Bulwinkel\nTickets: $77 adults\, $71.50 Concession\, $38.50 Children (12yrs – 17yrs)\, $66 Group (minimum of 10 tickets)\, School Booking $25 (Teacher Free). Ticket sales close 1 hour prior to the performance. \n\nGet Tickets\n\n \nRunning Time: 110 min \nTHEATRE 180 Production \n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \nThis event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land.
URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/21-hearts-vivian-bulllwinkel-and-the-nurses-of-the-vyner-brooke-a-theatre-180-production-saturday/
LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350
CATEGORIES:Theatre Production
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/sq-promo-21-hearts.webp
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260715T180000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260715T193000
DTSTAMP:20260404T105426
CREATED:20260313T024204Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T034457Z
UID:71265-1784138400-1784143800@ballaratmi.org.au
SUMMARY:In Conversation with Benita Bensch
DESCRIPTION:July 15\n@\n6:00 pm\n–\n7:30 pm \n$11.78 \nHumffray Room \n\nGet Tickets\n \nSeen Again: Light On Matrescence \nBenita Bensch \n \nSeen Again is a modern companion through matrescence\, the profound transition\nof becoming a mother. \nMatrescence is a biological\, psychological\, emotional\, social and spiritual transformation that can leave mothers without the language or support to make sense of who they are. Many feel disconnected or  invisible\, wondering: Who am I now? Is it normal to feel this way? \nBlending intimate memoir\, eighteen real-life stories and years of coaching into a compassionate framework\, Benita Bensch explores the inner landscape and seismic shift of matrescence with unflinching honesty. If you have ever felt lost\, remember: you are not broken\, you are evolving. This is an invitation to reimagine your next season of life\, free of shoulds. \nSeen Again: Light on Matrescence is a return to the inner campfire\, where the dark is honoured\, the light is reclaimed\, and your true self is waiting to be seen again. By you\, first. \n \nAbout the author \nBenita Bensch\, author\nBenita Bensch is an Australian author\, coach and speaker whose work explores identity\, transition\, purpose and visibility through storytelling and the creative life. She is a certified Motherhood Studies Practitioner with over a decade of coaching experience\, drawing on narrative therapy principles in her work with women in rural and regional communities. \nShe is a certified Motherhood Studies Practitioner with over a decade of coaching experience\, drawing on narrative therapy principles in her work with women in rural and regional communities. \nBenita lives and farms near Moama\, New South Wales\, with her husband and four sons. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \nThis event will be supported by Collins Booksellers on Lydiard \n \n$11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. \n\nBook on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n\nGet Tickets\n\n \nThis event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land.
URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/benita-bensch/
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-benita-bensch-v2.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260716T193000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260716T210000
DTSTAMP:20260404T105426
CREATED:20260129T044738Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T034341Z
UID:70423-1784230200-1784235600@ballaratmi.org.au
SUMMARY:Ballarat Film Society | Journey Home
DESCRIPTION:July 16\n@\n7:30 pm\n–\n9:00 pm \nMinerva Room \nDocumentary Tribute to David Guylpilil \n \nDavid Gulpilil\, from the Mandjalpingu (Djilba) clan of the Yolngu people\, was discovered by a visiting British film-maker and recruited into the world of film. Adventurous\, talented\, intelligent and ambitious\, he became one of Australia’s best-known and charismatic actors.   \nFollowing Walkabout (1971)\, Gulpilil’s acting career spanned over 40 films\, including classics such as The Tracker (2002)\, Rabbit-Proof Fence (2001)\, Ten Canoes (2006)\, and My Name is Gulpilil (2021); international attention soared with his role in Crocodile Dundee (1986).  Gulpilil spent over 50 years of his life bringing authentic Indigenous stories\, dance and music to audiences around the world\, culminating in a collaboration with Rolf de Heer and Molly Reynolds on My Name Is Gulpilil (2021) which showed him looking back over a life of extreme highs and lows. \nWhile dying of lung cancer\, Gulpilil made his final wishes known – he not only wanted his body to be repatriated to his homeland Gupulul\, a remote location in East Arnhem Land on Yolngu Country\, but for the funeral to be captured on film – a final act of cultural sharing.  The film crew chronicled an extraordinary journey across more than 3000 kilometers before recording the funeral ceremony\, or Bäpurru\, that was both traditional and unique. It was a collective act of farewell that will be remembered for generations to come. Madman. \n \nAustralia\, 2025\, 88 min. Dir: Maggie Miles and Trisha Morton-Thomas. Narrated by Baker Boy and Hugh Jackman \nBallarat Film Society \n  \nMembership \n12 months – Feb-December: $60\nFeb-July: $35 – July-Dec: $30 \nTo join or renew your membership\, please e-mail or phone Angus McLachlan (5374 2474)\, or come with cash on the night. \nMembership can be paid by bank transfer or with cash. \nFor film enquiries\, phone Sue Nunn: 5341 2266 or visit the  Ballarat Film Society website \nAll films are subject to availability. If there is no next film shown below it means the BFS is working on next season’s programme.
URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/ballarat-film-society-journey-home/
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/journey-home-sq-promo.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260723T190000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260723T210000
DTSTAMP:20260404T105426
CREATED:20260223T045111Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T034312Z
UID:70806-1784833200-1784840400@ballaratmi.org.au
SUMMARY:God of Carnage\, A Ballarat National Theatre Production
DESCRIPTION:July 23\n@\n7:00 pm\n–\n9:00 pm \n$10 – $30 \nMinerva Space \nThe Tony Award Winning Play by Yasmina Reza \nDirected by Ruby Abbott \nAfter the event of school yard bullying\, four parents differing views may have just created cause for another round; adults edition. \nGod of Carnage is a one act black comedy play. It won best comedy at the 2009 Tony Awards\nand the 2009 Laurence Olivier Awards. \nThe play begins with Michael and Veronica\, parents of young Henry\, inviting Alan and Annette\, parents of Benjamin\, to their home to discuss the horrifying event that occurred on the playground that morning. \nEleven-year-old Henry refused to let classmate Benjamin join his gang. Not taking this dismissal lightly\, Benjamin armed himself with a stick and knocked out Henry’s two front teeth. \nWith polite niceties wearing thin\, the audience watches four very different people try to resolve this matter\, convincing each other that it was not the fault of their own son\, rather that of the other. With accusations being hurled around the room\, the argument heats up even further when evaluating matters of racism\, sexism and homophobia. By evening’s end\, the gloves are well and truly off\, with the adults behaving in a manner that is eerily similar to that which occurred on the playground. \n \nPlaywright – Yasmina Reza \nYasmina Reza is a French playwright\, actress\, novelist and screenwriter best known for her plays ‘Art’ and God of Carnage. Many of her brief satiric plays have reflected on contemporary middle-class issues. \nIn 1994\, ‘Art’ premiered in Paris and went on to win the Molière Award for Best Author. Since then it has been produced internationally and translated and performed in over 30 languages. The London production\, produced by David Pugh and Dafydd Rogers\, received the 1996–97 Laurence Olivier Award. It also won the Tony Award for Best Play. \nGod of Carnage opened in London in March 2008\, directed by Matthew Warchus in a translation by Christopher Hampton starring Ralph Fiennes\, Tamsin Greig\, Janet McTeer and Ken Stott. It was produced by David Pugh and Dafydd Rogers\, their second collaboration with Reza. The London production won the Laurence Olivier Award for Best New Comedy. The play premiered on Broadway with an opening night cast of James Gandolfini\, Jeff Daniels\, Marcia Gay Harden\, and Hope Davis. God of Carnage won Best Play at the 2009 Tony Awards. \nDirected by Ruby Abbott \nRuby is a local creative artist\, working as an actor\, director\, and producer. God of Carnage marks Ruby’s full length directorial debut. \nRuby has been involved in many productions in Ballarat and surrounds. She has performed several times with Ballarat National Theatre\, including in Mr Bennet’s Bride (2022)\, Dust and Ruin (2023)\, A Date With Death (2024) and Dancing at Lughnasa (2024). \nRuby has previously served as an assistant director for many productions\, including The Haunted Theatre (2025)\, Sister Cities (2024)\, and The Servant of Two Masters (2021). \nTickets: $30 adults\, $25 Concession\, $20.00 BNT members\, $15 Children\,  Group package (10 adults)\, $180.00. Ticket sales close 1 hour prior to the performance. \nA bar will operate for these sessions. \n\nGet Tickets\n \nNo allocated seating \nRunning Time: 1.5 Hours (no interval) \nDoors open 30 minutes prior to show start time. Bar available \nContent warning – Strong language and mature themes. \nBallarat National Theatre \n\n  \nBallarat National Theatre are a BMI Community Partner\nFind out more about BMI Community Partnerships below. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSupporters & partners\n\n\n \n \nThis event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land.
URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/god-of-carnage-23-july/
LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350
CATEGORIES:Ballarat National Theatre,Theatre Production
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/God-of-Carnage-BMI-Square.webp
ORGANIZER;CN="Ballarat National Theatre":MAILTO:contact@bnt.org.au
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260724T190000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260724T210000
DTSTAMP:20260404T105426
CREATED:20260223T053244Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T034253Z
UID:70815-1784919600-1784926800@ballaratmi.org.au
SUMMARY:God of Carnage\, A Ballarat National Theatre Production
DESCRIPTION:July 24\n@\n7:00 pm\n–\n9:00 pm \n$10 – $30 \nMinerva Space \nThe Tony Award Winning Play by Yasmina Reza \nDirected by Ruby Abbott \nAfter the event of school yard bullying\, four parents differing views may have just created cause for another round; adults edition. \nGod of Carnage is a one act black comedy play. It won best comedy at the 2009 Tony Awards\nand the 2009 Laurence Olivier Awards. \nThe play begins with Michael and Veronica\, parents of young Henry\, inviting Alan and Annette\, parents of Benjamin\, to their home to discuss the horrifying event that occurred on the playground that morning. \nEleven-year-old Henry refused to let classmate Benjamin join his gang. Not taking this dismissal lightly\, Benjamin armed himself with a stick and knocked out Henry’s two front teeth. \nWith polite niceties wearing thin\, the audience watches four very different people try to resolve this matter\, convincing each other that it was not the fault of their own son\, rather that of the other. With accusations being hurled around the room\, the argument heats up even further when evaluating matters of racism\, sexism and homophobia. By evening’s end\, the gloves are well and truly off\, with the adults behaving in a manner that is eerily similar to that which occurred on the playground. \n \nPlaywright – Yasmina Reza \nYasmina Reza is a French playwright\, actress\, novelist and screenwriter best known for her plays ‘Art’ and God of Carnage. Many of her brief satiric plays have reflected on contemporary middle-class issues. \nIn 1994\, ‘Art’ premiered in Paris and went on to win the Molière Award for Best Author. Since then it has been produced internationally and translated and performed in over 30 languages. The London production\, produced by David Pugh and Dafydd Rogers\, received the 1996–97 Laurence Olivier Award. It also won the Tony Award for Best Play. \nGod of Carnage opened in London in March 2008\, directed by Matthew Warchus in a translation by Christopher Hampton starring Ralph Fiennes\, Tamsin Greig\, Janet McTeer and Ken Stott. It was produced by David Pugh and Dafydd Rogers\, their second collaboration with Reza. The London production won the Laurence Olivier Award for Best New Comedy. The play premiered on Broadway with an opening night cast of James Gandolfini\, Jeff Daniels\, Marcia Gay Harden\, and Hope Davis. God of Carnage won Best Play at the 2009 Tony Awards. \nDirected by Ruby Abbott \nRuby is a local creative artist\, working as an actor\, director\, and producer. God of Carnage marks Ruby’s full length directorial debut. \nRuby has been involved in many productions in Ballarat and surrounds. She has performed several times with Ballarat National Theatre\, including in Mr Bennet’s Bride (2022)\, Dust and Ruin (2023)\, A Date With Death (2024) and Dancing at Lughnasa (2024). \nRuby has previously served as an assistant director for many productions\, including The Haunted Theatre (2025)\, Sister Cities (2024)\, and The Servant of Two Masters (2021). \nTickets: $30 adults\, $25 Concession\, $20.00 BNT members\, $15 Children\,  Group package (10 adults)\, $180.00. Ticket sales close 1 hour prior to the performance. \nA bar will operate for these sessions. \n\nGet Tickets\n \nNo allocated seating \nRunning Time: 1.5 Hours (no interval) \nDoors open 30 minutes prior to show start time. Bar available \nContent warning – Strong language and mature themes. \nBallarat National Theatre \n\n  \nBallarat National Theatre are a BMI Community Partner\nFind out more about BMI Community Partnerships below. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSupporters & partners\n\n\n \n \nThis event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land.
URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/god-of-carnage-24-july/
LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350
CATEGORIES:Ballarat National Theatre,Theatre Production
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/God-of-Carnage-BMI-Square.webp
ORGANIZER;CN="Ballarat National Theatre":MAILTO:contact@bnt.org.au
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260725T140000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260725T160000
DTSTAMP:20260404T105426
CREATED:20260223T053557Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T034233Z
UID:70819-1784988000-1784995200@ballaratmi.org.au
SUMMARY:God of Carnage\, A Ballarat National Theatre Production
DESCRIPTION:July 25\n@\n2:00 pm\n–\n4:00 pm \n$10 – $30 \nMinerva Space \nThe Tony Award Winning Play by Yasmina Reza \nDirected by Ruby Abbott \nAfter the event of school yard bullying\, four parents differing views may have just created cause for another round; adults edition. \nGod of Carnage is a one act black comedy play. It won best comedy at the 2009 Tony Awards\nand the 2009 Laurence Olivier Awards. \nThe play begins with Michael and Veronica\, parents of young Henry\, inviting Alan and Annette\, parents of Benjamin\, to their home to discuss the horrifying event that occurred on the playground that morning. \nEleven-year-old Henry refused to let classmate Benjamin join his gang. Not taking this dismissal lightly\, Benjamin armed himself with a stick and knocked out Henry’s two front teeth. \nWith polite niceties wearing thin\, the audience watches four very different people try to resolve this matter\, convincing each other that it was not the fault of their own son\, rather that of the other. With accusations being hurled around the room\, the argument heats up even further when evaluating matters of racism\, sexism and homophobia. By evening’s end\, the gloves are well and truly off\, with the adults behaving in a manner that is eerily similar to that which occurred on the playground. \n \nPlaywright – Yasmina Reza \nYasmina Reza is a French playwright\, actress\, novelist and screenwriter best known for her plays ‘Art’ and God of Carnage. Many of her brief satiric plays have reflected on contemporary middle-class issues. \nIn 1994\, ‘Art’ premiered in Paris and went on to win the Molière Award for Best Author. Since then it has been produced internationally and translated and performed in over 30 languages. The London production\, produced by David Pugh and Dafydd Rogers\, received the 1996–97 Laurence Olivier Award. It also won the Tony Award for Best Play. \nGod of Carnage opened in London in March 2008\, directed by Matthew Warchus in a translation by Christopher Hampton starring Ralph Fiennes\, Tamsin Greig\, Janet McTeer and Ken Stott. It was produced by David Pugh and Dafydd Rogers\, their second collaboration with Reza. The London production won the Laurence Olivier Award for Best New Comedy. The play premiered on Broadway with an opening night cast of James Gandolfini\, Jeff Daniels\, Marcia Gay Harden\, and Hope Davis. God of Carnage won Best Play at the 2009 Tony Awards. \nDirected by Ruby Abbott \nRuby is a local creative artist\, working as an actor\, director\, and producer. God of Carnage marks Ruby’s full length directorial debut. \nRuby has been involved in many productions in Ballarat and surrounds. She has performed several times with Ballarat National Theatre\, including in Mr Bennet’s Bride (2022)\, Dust and Ruin (2023)\, A Date With Death (2024) and Dancing at Lughnasa (2024). \nRuby has previously served as an assistant director for many productions\, including The Haunted Theatre (2025)\, Sister Cities (2024)\, and The Servant of Two Masters (2021). \nTickets: $30 adults\, $25 Concession\, $20.00 BNT members\, $15 Children\,  Group package (10 adults)\, $180.00. Ticket sales close 1 hour prior to the performance. \nA bar will operate for these sessions. \n\nGet Tickets\n \nNo allocated seating \nRunning Time: 1.5 Hours (no interval) \nDoors open 30 minutes prior to show start time. Bar available \nContent warning – Strong language and mature themes. \nBallarat National Theatre \n\n  \nBallarat National Theatre are a BMI Community Partner\nFind out more about BMI Community Partnerships below. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSupporters & partners\n\n\n \n \nThis event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land.
URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/god-of-carnage-25-july/
LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350
CATEGORIES:Ballarat National Theatre,Theatre Production
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/God-of-Carnage-BMI-Square.webp
ORGANIZER;CN="Ballarat National Theatre":MAILTO:contact@bnt.org.au
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260725T190000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260725T210000
DTSTAMP:20260404T105426
CREATED:20260223T053430Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T034212Z
UID:70817-1785006000-1785013200@ballaratmi.org.au
SUMMARY:God of Carnage\, A Ballarat National Theatre Production
DESCRIPTION:July 25\n@\n7:00 pm\n–\n9:00 pm \n$10 – $30 \nMinerva Space \nThe Tony Award Winning Play by Yasmina Reza \nDirected by Ruby Abbott \nAfter the event of school yard bullying\, four parents differing views may have just created cause for another round; adults edition. \nGod of Carnage is a one act black comedy play. It won best comedy at the 2009 Tony Awards\nand the 2009 Laurence Olivier Awards. \nThe play begins with Michael and Veronica\, parents of young Henry\, inviting Alan and Annette\, parents of Benjamin\, to their home to discuss the horrifying event that occurred on the playground that morning. \nEleven-year-old Henry refused to let classmate Benjamin join his gang. Not taking this dismissal lightly\, Benjamin armed himself with a stick and knocked out Henry’s two front teeth. \nWith polite niceties wearing thin\, the audience watches four very different people try to resolve this matter\, convincing each other that it was not the fault of their own son\, rather that of the other. With accusations being hurled around the room\, the argument heats up even further when evaluating matters of racism\, sexism and homophobia. By evening’s end\, the gloves are well and truly off\, with the adults behaving in a manner that is eerily similar to that which occurred on the playground. \n \nPlaywright – Yasmina Reza \nYasmina Reza is a French playwright\, actress\, novelist and screenwriter best known for her plays ‘Art’ and God of Carnage. Many of her brief satiric plays have reflected on contemporary middle-class issues. \nIn 1994\, ‘Art’ premiered in Paris and went on to win the Molière Award for Best Author. Since then it has been produced internationally and translated and performed in over 30 languages. The London production\, produced by David Pugh and Dafydd Rogers\, received the 1996–97 Laurence Olivier Award. It also won the Tony Award for Best Play. \nGod of Carnage opened in London in March 2008\, directed by Matthew Warchus in a translation by Christopher Hampton starring Ralph Fiennes\, Tamsin Greig\, Janet McTeer and Ken Stott. It was produced by David Pugh and Dafydd Rogers\, their second collaboration with Reza. The London production won the Laurence Olivier Award for Best New Comedy. The play premiered on Broadway with an opening night cast of James Gandolfini\, Jeff Daniels\, Marcia Gay Harden\, and Hope Davis. God of Carnage won Best Play at the 2009 Tony Awards. \nDirected by Ruby Abbott \nRuby is a local creative artist\, working as an actor\, director\, and producer. God of Carnage marks Ruby’s full length directorial debut. \nRuby has been involved in many productions in Ballarat and surrounds. She has performed several times with Ballarat National Theatre\, including in Mr Bennet’s Bride (2022)\, Dust and Ruin (2023)\, A Date With Death (2024) and Dancing at Lughnasa (2024). \nRuby has previously served as an assistant director for many productions\, including The Haunted Theatre (2025)\, Sister Cities (2024)\, and The Servant of Two Masters (2021). \nTickets: $30 adults\, $25 Concession\, $20.00 BNT members\, $15 Children\,  Group package (10 adults)\, $180.00. Ticket sales close 1 hour prior to the performance. \nA bar will operate for these sessions. \n\nGet Tickets\n \nNo allocated seating \nRunning Time: 1.5 Hours (no interval) \nDoors open 30 minutes prior to show start time. Bar available \nContent warning – Strong language and mature themes. \nBallarat National Theatre \n\n  \nBallarat National Theatre are a BMI Community Partner\nFind out more about BMI Community Partnerships below. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSupporters & partners\n\n\n \n \nThis event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land.
URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/god-of-carnage-25-july-2/
LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350
CATEGORIES:Ballarat National Theatre,Theatre Production
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/God-of-Carnage-BMI-Square.webp
ORGANIZER;CN="Ballarat National Theatre":MAILTO:contact@bnt.org.au
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260726T140000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260726T160000
DTSTAMP:20260404T105426
CREATED:20260223T053749Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T034148Z
UID:70821-1785074400-1785081600@ballaratmi.org.au
SUMMARY:God of Carnage\, A Ballarat National Theatre Production
DESCRIPTION:July 26\n@\n2:00 pm\n–\n4:00 pm \n$10 – $30 \nMinerva Space \nThe Tony Award Winning Play by Yasmina Reza \nDirected by Ruby Abbott \nAfter the event of school yard bullying\, four parents differing views may have just created cause for another round; adults edition. \nGod of Carnage is a one act black comedy play. It won best comedy at the 2009 Tony Awards\nand the 2009 Laurence Olivier Awards. \nThe play begins with Michael and Veronica\, parents of young Henry\, inviting Alan and Annette\, parents of Benjamin\, to their home to discuss the horrifying event that occurred on the playground that morning. \nEleven-year-old Henry refused to let classmate Benjamin join his gang. Not taking this dismissal lightly\, Benjamin armed himself with a stick and knocked out Henry’s two front teeth. \nWith polite niceties wearing thin\, the audience watches four very different people try to resolve this matter\, convincing each other that it was not the fault of their own son\, rather that of the other. With accusations being hurled around the room\, the argument heats up even further when evaluating matters of racism\, sexism and homophobia. By evening’s end\, the gloves are well and truly off\, with the adults behaving in a manner that is eerily similar to that which occurred on the playground. \n \nPlaywright – Yasmina Reza \nYasmina Reza is a French playwright\, actress\, novelist and screenwriter best known for her plays ‘Art’ and God of Carnage. Many of her brief satiric plays have reflected on contemporary middle-class issues. \nIn 1994\, ‘Art’ premiered in Paris and went on to win the Molière Award for Best Author. Since then it has been produced internationally and translated and performed in over 30 languages. The London production\, produced by David Pugh and Dafydd Rogers\, received the 1996–97 Laurence Olivier Award. It also won the Tony Award for Best Play. \nGod of Carnage opened in London in March 2008\, directed by Matthew Warchus in a translation by Christopher Hampton starring Ralph Fiennes\, Tamsin Greig\, Janet McTeer and Ken Stott. It was produced by David Pugh and Dafydd Rogers\, their second collaboration with Reza. The London production won the Laurence Olivier Award for Best New Comedy. The play premiered on Broadway with an opening night cast of James Gandolfini\, Jeff Daniels\, Marcia Gay Harden\, and Hope Davis. God of Carnage won Best Play at the 2009 Tony Awards. \nDirected by Ruby Abbott \nRuby is a local creative artist\, working as an actor\, director\, and producer. God of Carnage marks Ruby’s full length directorial debut. \nRuby has been involved in many productions in Ballarat and surrounds. She has performed several times with Ballarat National Theatre\, including in Mr Bennet’s Bride (2022)\, Dust and Ruin (2023)\, A Date With Death (2024) and Dancing at Lughnasa (2024). \nRuby has previously served as an assistant director for many productions\, including The Haunted Theatre (2025)\, Sister Cities (2024)\, and The Servant of Two Masters (2021). \nTickets: $30 adults\, $25 Concession\, $20.00 BNT members\, $15 Children\,  Group package (10 adults)\, $180.00. Ticket sales close 1 hour prior to the performance. \nA bar will operate for these sessions. \n\nGet Tickets\n \nNo allocated seating \nRunning Time: 1.5 Hours (no interval) \nDoors open 30 minutes prior to show start time. Bar available \nContent warning – Strong language and mature themes. \nBallarat National Theatre \n\n  \nBallarat National Theatre are a BMI Community Partner\nFind out more about BMI Community Partnerships below. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSupporters & partners\n\n\n \n \nThis event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land.
URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/god-of-carnage-26-july/
LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350
CATEGORIES:Ballarat National Theatre,Theatre Production
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/God-of-Carnage-BMI-Square.webp
ORGANIZER;CN="Ballarat National Theatre":MAILTO:contact@bnt.org.au
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260807T193000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260807T204000
DTSTAMP:20260404T105426
CREATED:20251205T035734Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T034032Z
UID:69366-1786131000-1786135200@ballaratmi.org.au
SUMMARY:Blake Pavey: A Bit Scared
DESCRIPTION:August 7\n@\n7:30 pm\n–\n8:40 pm \n$44.90 \nMinerva Space \nPresented by KEG Touring \n\n\nGet Tickets\n \nA Bit Scared \nBlake Pavey rose to online fame at just 17 years old through his character based sketch comedy on TikTok. \nSince then\, he has amassed over 1 Million followers across social media. He’s now converted his online presence onto the stage with some absolutely killer stand up! Blake was a 2022 Raw Comedy National Grand Finalist. \nHis sophomore solo comedy show ‘Still Kickin’ was a hit across Australia\, including 59 shows. Blake has recently returned from performing in the New Zealand and the UK and is set to star in Season 2 of Amazon Series Deadloch in 2026. Blake is also one third of the B.L.T podcast. \n \nShow Contains Adult Themes and Coarse Language. Recommended Age: 16+ \nALL UNDER 18s Must be accompanied by a Parent or Legal Guardian. (Someone who has guardianship over you via a legal guardianship order). \n \nPrice: $49.90 \n\nGet Tickets\n\n\n \nThis event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land.
URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/blake-pavey-a-bit-scared/
LOCATION:BMI – Minerva Space\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350
CATEGORIES:Comedy
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/sq-promo-blake-pavey.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="KEG Touring":MAILTO:Contact@kegtouring.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260812T180000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260812T193000
DTSTAMP:20260404T105426
CREATED:20260324T234500Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T033956Z
UID:71535-1786557600-1786563000@ballaratmi.org.au
SUMMARY:In Conversation with Sophie Green
DESCRIPTION:August 12\n@\n6:00 pm\n–\n7:30 pm \n$11.78 \nHumffray Room \n\nGet Tickets\n \nThe Frock Shop \nSophie Green \n \nMeet the Ladies of The Frock Shop \nWhere clothes are just the start of the story \nAustralian bestseller Sophie Green returns with a sparkling story about the beauty of the second-hand\, the power of second chances\, and becoming who you were always meant to be (with a little help from your friends). \nOn Sydney’s lower north shore\, in the harbourside suburb of Mosman\, there is a charity frock shop. For decades\, it has clothed the women of this suburb\, through good times and bad\, for richer\, for poorer. \nLocal resident Daphne has always worked at the frock shop. And she knows better than most how clothes are used by women as talismans\, as armour\, as beauty. Clothes are essential parts of women’s stories\, and those stories are now part of Daphne’s life. \nDaphne has her own stories\, too. Some involve her old friend Adelaide\, who still bears the devastating secret that caused her to flee Australia in her youth. Some involve a new friend\, Christina\, who has been forced to leave her glamorous Los Angeles life to rebuild in her childhood city. Then there is Margot\, living a life that is far from what she had dreamed it would be\, and Lucy\, desperate for escape and the promise of tomorrow. \nNot only does the frock shop give them purpose\, but the clothes will help them become the women they were destined to be\, because it is never too late for a transformation. \n \nAbout the author \n \nSophie Green – ‘I’m  an author and publisher living in Sydney\, Australia. I’ve written several novels and I love exploring the art of storytelling in all its forms. \nWhen I’m not writing novels\, I’m often writing about Australian country music—a genre I adore—on my website\, Sunburnt Country Music. I also love practising yoga\, exploring creativity in its many forms\, and losing myself in music that tells a great story. \nMy Books: \nLessons in Love at the Seaside Salon – Art Hour at the Duchess Hotel  – Weekends iwth the Sunshine Gardening Society – The Bellbird River Country Choir – Thursdays at Orange Blossom House – The Shelly Bay Ladies Swimming Circle – The Inaugural Meeting o fthe Fairvale Ladies Book Club. \n\n\n\n\n\n \nThis event will be supported by Collins Booksellers on Lydiard \n \n$11.78 per person includes booking fee & gst\, also includes light refreshment. All proceeds go to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute to support the staging of our author events. \n\nBook on-line or contact Rosemary at the Libary via email library@ballaratmi.org.au or phone (03) 5331 3042 \n\nGet Tickets\n\n \nThis event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land.
URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/sophie-green/
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-sophie-green.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260813T193000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260813T210000
DTSTAMP:20260404T105426
CREATED:20260129T051107Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T033912Z
UID:70430-1786649400-1786654800@ballaratmi.org.au
SUMMARY:Ballarat Film Society | The Blue Trail
DESCRIPTION:August 13\n@\n7:30 pm\n–\n9:00 pm \nMinerva Room \nBrazilian Dystopian Sci-fi \n \nThe Blue Trail depicts a dystopian world\, one that functions as a wry social critique rather than containing any lasting sense of terror or gloom.  In a futuristic Brazil\, retirement has questionable consequences. 77-year-old Tereza is hailed as a ‘national living heritage’\, yet she will soon be forced to live in a colony for seniors. But Tereza has one dream: to fly on a plane before she’s shipped off and forgotten.  \nEmbarking on a fantastical journey through the Amazon\, she encounters a blue drool-discharging snail with an ability to chart a person’s destiny\, a shady boat captain and a sly new friend with secrets – and lessons – of her own. The best-reviewed film of the 2025 Berlinale – where it topped Screen International’s prestigious critics’ poll – Gabriel Mascaro’s extraordinary film is a breathtaking cinematic odyssey. \n“It’s remarkable how much Mascaro packs into the slender 86-minute runtime of The Blue Trail. This tale of quiet triumph knows that the best counterweight to the market’s invisible hand is to offer a caring hand into the dreams of those it leaves behind … Mascaro compassionately exhibits how a future that doesn’t make space for its past is not one worth venturing toward.” Slant Magazine. Palace Films \n \nBrazil\, 2025\, 87 mins. Dir Gabriel Mascaro. \nBallarat Film Society \n  \nMembership \n12 months – Feb-December: $60\nFeb-July: $35 – July-Dec: $30 \nTo join or renew your membership\, please e-mail or phone Angus McLachlan (5374 2474)\, or come with cash on the night. \nMembership can be paid by bank transfer or with cash. \nFor film enquiries\, phone Sue Nunn: 5341 2266 or visit the  Ballarat Film Society website \nAll films are subject to availability. If there is no next film shown below it means the BFS is working on next season’s programme.
URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/ballarat-film-society-the-blue-trail/
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/the-blue-trail-sq-promo.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260910T193000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260910T210000
DTSTAMP:20260404T105426
CREATED:20260129T052341Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T033843Z
UID:70438-1789068600-1789074000@ballaratmi.org.au
SUMMARY:Ballarat Film Society | Kōkā
DESCRIPTION:September 10\n@\n7:30 pm\n–\n9:00 pm \nMinerva Room \n​Māori Roadtrip Film \n \nThe Māori celebration of New Year in July\, marked by the rising of the stars in the Matariki constellation\, is an occasion to mourn the deceased\, celebrate the present\, and prepare the ground for the coming year.    \nWhile driving the length of New Zealand from hospital on the South Island to her home on the North\, Māori Elder Hamo takes on the care of Jo\, a troubled young woman being evicted from a caravan park\, who has lost touch with her Māori culture. They form an unlikely bond\, and as they confront past traumas and demons\, their journey becomes a path to healing and reconciliation\, experienced through Matariki. The film won the People’s Choice Award at the Māoriland Film Festival in 2025\, possibly helped by its high production values; director Kath Akuhata-Brown said that the film benefited indirectly from the recent writers and actors strikes in America. “With several overseas film productions on hold here\, their crack crews were suddenly available\, and keen to throw their expertise at Kōka.” (Radio NZ). Roadshow. \n \nN.Z.\, 2025\, 107 min. Dir: Kath Akuhata-Brown. \nBallarat Film Society \n  \nMembership \n12 months – Feb-December: $60\nFeb-July: $35 – July-Dec: $30 \nTo join or renew your membership\, please e-mail or phone Angus McLachlan (5374 2474)\, or come with cash on the night. \nMembership can be paid by bank transfer or with cash. \nFor film enquiries\, phone Sue Nunn: 5341 2266 or visit the  Ballarat Film Society website \nAll films are subject to availability. If there is no next film shown below it means the BFS is working on next season’s programme.
URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/ballarat-film-society-koka/
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/koka-sq-promo.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261008T193000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261008T210000
DTSTAMP:20260404T105426
CREATED:20260129T054045Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T033815Z
UID:70446-1791487800-1791493200@ballaratmi.org.au
SUMMARY:Ballarat Film Society | Bound for Glory
DESCRIPTION:October 8\n@\n7:30 pm\n–\n9:00 pm \nMinerva Room \nDustbowl Folk Singer Elegy \n \nFolk legend Woody Guthrie\, an extraordinary hard-driving\, ‘truth-telling man’ from the Oklahoma Plains\, who left the American mid-west Dust Bowl in the 1930s for the promise of California and on his journey became one of America’s most noted poet-folk singers.   \nGuthrie\, through years of travelling\, penned more than 1000 songs\, many in protest about injustice and inequality.  He sang about historic events\, migrant workers\, hoboes\, stories of the disenfranchised and ignored\, love\, and the fight against fascism. He even penned a song called “Old Man Trump” (1954) about Donald’s father\, whom he accused of stirring up racism through residential segregation in his Beach Haven apartment complex.  \nOne of his best-known songs\, “This Land is Your Land” (1940)\, has become an alternative anthem in America. His songs have been reimagined by dozens of folk singers such as Bob Dylan\, Pete Seeger\, Joan Baez\, Billy Bragg\, and many more. Nearly 60 years after his death\, an album with refined original songs Woody at Home\, was released in 2025.  Roadshow. \n \nUSA\, 1976\, 147 min. Dir: Hal Ashby (Harold and Maude\, 1971).  Stars: David Harradine as Woody Guthrie. \nBallarat Film Society \n  \nMembership \n12 months – Feb-December: $60\nFeb-July: $35 – July-Dec: $30 \nTo join or renew your membership\, please e-mail or phone Angus McLachlan (5374 2474)\, or come with cash on the night. \nMembership can be paid by bank transfer or with cash. \nFor film enquiries\, phone Sue Nunn: 5341 2266 or visit the  Ballarat Film Society website \nAll films are subject to availability. If there is no next film shown below it means the BFS is working on next season’s programme.
URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/ballarat-film-society-bound-for-glory/
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/bound-for-glory-sq-promo.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261009T190000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261009T220000
DTSTAMP:20260404T105426
CREATED:20260203T013254Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T023230Z
UID:70535-1791572400-1791583200@ballaratmi.org.au
SUMMARY:Telegraph Road - The Dire Straits Legacy: Matt Arthur and The Lazybones
DESCRIPTION:October 9\n@\n7:00 pm\n–\n10:00 pm \n$40 – $49 \nBallaarat Mechanics’ Institute \n\n\nGet Tickets\n \nTelegraph Road — The Dire Straits Legacy. \n \nA celebration of the legendary British rock band known for their clean guitar tone\, understated style\, and poetic storytelling. \n“Matt Arthur\, an expressive vocalist and blues guitarist from Central West NSW\, leads The Lazybones—a five-piece group drawing on decades of musical experience.  \nFollowing the 2024 release of the album Then & Now\, they have toured NSW\, Victoria\, and Queensland\, receiving positive reviews for their engaging performances. \nMatt Arthur | Photo Frank Galdys Photography\n\n \nKeyboardist Sam McNally\, based in the NSW Blue Mountains\, is a founding member of Melbourne’s 80s band Stylus\, has toured with Air Supply\, John Farnham\, Tommy Emmanuel\, and Tim Finn. He also performs with Doug Williams & The Mix and Coloured Stone. \n \nBassist Michael Vidale\, based on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula\, currently tours with Don Walker (Cold Chisel)\, Jeff Lang & The Bushwackers.\nAn original member of Jimmy & The Boys. \n \nDrummer Dave Egan\, based in Sydney\, has worked with Matt Arthur for over two decades\, previously serving as the go-to drummer for major theatre shows and holding a long-running position in Sydney’s The Enormous Horns.\n” \nFollow Matt Arthur \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \nTickets: $49 adults\, $40 children under 17 years. \n\nGet Tickets\n\n\n \nThis event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work\, learn and create. Always Was\, Always Will Be\, Aboriginal Land.
URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/telegraph-road-the-dire-straits-legacy/
LOCATION:The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute\, 117-119 Sturt Street\, Ballarat Central\, VIC\, 3350\, Australia
CATEGORIES:Live Music
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ballaratmi.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/matt-arthur-sq-promo.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Matt Arthur Music":MAILTO:matt@mattarthurmusic.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261210T193000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261210T210000
DTSTAMP:20260404T105426
CREATED:20260129T055545Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T020736Z
UID:70454-1796931000-1796936400@ballaratmi.org.au
SUMMARY:Ballarat Film Society | Smiley Gets a Gun
DESCRIPTION:December 10\n@\n7:30 pm\n–\n9:00 pm \nMinerva Room \nFurther Adventures of Smiley \n \nOur screening of Smiley (1956) two years ago was popular with film society members.  In this sequel\, Smiley is a young Aussie upstart and cheeky home-grown hero\, who sets out to turn over a new leaf and become a ‘responsible citizen’ after his past misadventures.  \nSergeant Flaxman (Chips Rafferty) keeps a keen eye on the rapscallion and promises to award him a brand new .22 rifle if he stays out of trouble. Smiley of course scoots around in his mad-cap daily life desperately trying to keep his word\, but eventually getting accused of stealing gold from little old granny McKinley (Sybil Thorndike).  Filmed over an eight week period towards the end of 1957\, shooting took place at Camden and then Pagewood Studios in Sydney.  Have a walk down memory lane to a time when a Christmas present for a kid could be a .22 rifle! Roadshow. \n \nAustralia\, 1958\, 90 min. Dir: Anthony Kimmins. Stars Keith Calvert as Smiley\, Sybil Thorndike\, Leonard Thiele and Ruth Cracknell in her first feature film. \nBallarat Film Society \n  \nMembership \n12 months – Feb-December: $60\nFeb-July: $35 – July-Dec: $30 \nTo join or renew your membership\, please e-mail or phone Angus McLachlan (5374 2474)\, or come with cash on the night. \nMembership can be paid by bank transfer or with cash. \nFor film enquiries\, phone Sue Nunn: 5341 2266 or visit the  Ballarat Film Society website \nAll films are subject to availability. If there is no next film shown below it means the BFS is working on next season’s programme.
URL:https://ballaratmi.org.au/event/ballarat-film-society-smiley-gets-a-gun/
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/smiley-sq-promo.jpg
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR