The Little Brass Band – Fundraiser
Looking back to the month that was, firstly I would like to say a huge thank you to The Little Brass Band for all their generosity in delivering Cheers – Raise a Glass for Brass, the recent fundraiser for the BMI held on August 10th. The Minerva Room was the perfect setting for two wonderful sets of music arranged for brass, with the bar available to purchase a drink to accompany complimentary snacks. Thanks to volunteers and Venue Manager Liam Mudge for ensuring the smooth running of the day.
This event delivered income of around $1000 with profits going towards our Library and Heritage Collection.
On the same day we were able to capture the re-creation of the 1925 chess tournament photograph between Ballarat and Geelong-photographs taken by Ellen Becker – BMI Curator. At the link below can see the original photograph complete with chess tables and the re-creation from August 10. Members of the Chess Club and BMI Patron Dr Phil Roberts gave a brief address, of the story of the 1925 tournament, although the result on the day was apparently somewhat ambiguous.
This current day tournament in 2025 was won by Geelong, with several matches being played in the Humffray Room throughout the day. Thanks to all players who made this photo opportunity possible.
We have just hosted a huge and delighted audience on August 20th, as award winning author Michael Robotham spoke in the Minerva room as part of our Author talk series. Organiser and Librarian Rosemary is always very excited to see the audiences growing for these talks, and was delighted with this almost full house.
If you haven’t read The White Crow – reserve your copy at the library, or our friends at Collins Booksellers on Lyidard will have copies available, signed by the man himself.
National Science Week
During National Science Week we welcomed Professor John Long who presented The Secret History of Sharks, thank you so much Professor Long and Ellen for arranging this event. From Sharks to Blues to Opera, the BMI has recently hosted several guitar based events as part of the Blues Festival and will welcome Victorian Opera in to the Humffray Room as tenor Douglas Kelly performs for a fundraiser for the Ballarat Arts Foundation on August 31; there really is something for everyone.
A Poet’s Guide to Love and Loss – Douglas Kelly
Moving right along, Patron Phil Roberts has been able to once again, put together a fascinating series of Twilight Talks starting on Wednesday September 3 – These sessions are not to be missed.
Bar open at 5pm.
Wednesday 3 September at 5.30pm Ballarat’s Henry Lawson, Unknown facts presented by Hedley Thomson.
Wednesday 17 September at 5.30pm Saving Dragons: The Life and Times of Russell Goldfield ( Louey Yeung Man) Jack presented by author Dianne Dempsey.
Wednesday 24 September at 5.30pm Gold! Gold! Gold! Bendigo to Ballarat presented by Dr Phil Roberts & Dr Charles Fahey
The Wheeler Centre
We are also thrilled to have our partners The Wheeler Centre, once again presenting a key-note speaker in Tracey Lee Holmes. This event will take place on September 4 at 6pm
Book Sale Fundraiser
Fundraising is always key for us here at the BMI and our much anticipated Book Sales are one way that we do this. We thank all the donors who have provided a veritable treasure trove of reading material over the last few months to fill the tables for the next in this series to be held on the weekend of September 6th and 7th. You never know what you might find; please bring a friend and pop in for a spot of shopping.
We will also have some vinyl records for sale which are in excellent condition.
Fashion Parade Fundraiser
Thanks to volunteers Geraldine Roberts and Dona Pentland for once again arranging a fashion based event sure to thrill those fashionistas out there. Our catwalk style event will take place on September 14 at 2pm and will include a glass of bubbles on arrival, a musical interlude and a chance to purchase items from the catwalk and of course to mingle with other vintage fashion lovers. This event will also be a fundraiser for the BMI, tickets available on our website, or visit and purchase at the Library.
BMI Executive Manager
The position of Executive Manager for the BMI, is currently being advertised. In this part-time (0.5) strategic leadership role, the successful candidate will combine cultural stewardship with business acumen, managing multiple business units, developing government partnerships, and lead financial |sustainability initiatives. If you or anyone you know is interested in this opportunity, please email me for details and a Position Description.
Applications will close September 20th. E: p.nicholson@ballaratmi.org.au
Compliance
Work continues on compliance with the National Child Safety Standards and National Volunteering Standards, our HR Audit and of course building maintenance and OH&S compliance. The recent review of our financial processes and procedures is almost complete, thanks to Finance officer Carry Fungsi and the Finance Committee led by Edward Petrie. This has delivered even more efficiency and accuracy by utilising new software and IT solutions more thoroughly as we strive to maximise every resource to achieve our goals.
Victorian Association for Performing Arts (VAPA)
The BMI is excited to formally join the Victorian Association for Performing Arts (VAPA) connecting the BMI with a state-wide network of venues, artists, and industry professionals, strengthening our profile and opportunities for collaboration. It also ensures we stay up to date with advocacy, training, and best-practice resources that support our growth as a leading cultural hub in Ballarat.
Hilton White Estate – Grant
Finally, we are so pleased to announce that we have been successful in receiving a grant from the Hilton White Estate to assist with repairs to our roof and UV protective glass panelling inner Heritage Reading Room. Thank you so much to the trustees of the Estate for their support of the BMI. These important works will get underway early 2026.
Paula Nicholson.
