Weekly classes 7pm Wednesdays These classes offer simple, practical methods to improve the quality of our life and develop inner peace through meditation and Buddhist teachings. Classes consist of two guided meditations and a teaching to help us solve our daily problems and find the lasting happiness we seek. Beginners welcome. Free for Kadampa members […]
Kadampa Meditation Series | Daily Rituals for Inner Peace Read More »
An evening of history and hope with local historian Dr Marguerita Stephens and local documentary film-maker James Freemantle. The Years of Terror meticulously documents the struggle of the Kulin clans to hold Country as La Trobe unleashed ‘the terror of British law’ on them. Based on the journal of Assistant Protector William Thomas, this work
Past Truths/Bright Futures Read More »
Headliner: Ferri Maya Host: Tash York Special Guest Performers: Cherry Velour Delores Daiquiri Artists: AZCADELIA Desert Diamonds Fandom Femmes Minnie Mayhem Summer Dragonfly Velma Vouloir Vincent Prize The Australian Burlesque Festival presents The Big Teaser! The Australian Burlesque Festival presents an exciting new show that opens prior to the official launch of the national tour. Get
Australian Burlesque Festival | The Big Teaser Read More »
The BMI is home to thousands of photographs of Ballarat through the ages. Through the lens of several different photographers and collectors including Max Harris. Join us for a curator-led tour of the BMI’s photographic exhibition as part of the Ballarat Foto Biennale, as well as a special viewing of some treasures from our collection
The Photography of the BMI | Victorian Seniors Festival | Now fully Booked Read More »
This volunteer lead discussion group meets on the last Tuesday of the Month 10.30am – 12 noon.
Unleash you artistic potential on Sunday 21 May & Sunday 28 May, two sessions each day starting at 2pm & 7pm each day, duration two hours each session. Attention, all ye aspiring artists and lovers of the fine arts! A most exceptional life drawing session awaits thee in the depths of a heritage basement, reminiscent
Life Drawing in the Basement Read More »
The BMI is home to thousands of photographs of Ballarat through the ages. Through the lens of several different photographers and collectors including Max Harris, the BMI might just have that photograph you are looking for! Book attendance | $15 BMI members | $25 Regular fee. Bookings View the full list of Ballarat Heritage Festival
The Photography of the BMI | Special Programs Read More »
A detailed look at the restoration of The Girl in the Bonnet and other needy artworks in the collection. Book attendance | $15 BMI members | $25 Regular fee. Bookings View the full list of Ballarat Heritage Festival Events at the BMI Ballarat Heritage Festival | BMI Melba Opera Trust Scholars announced for 4 June
The Artwork of the BMI | Special Programs Read More »
Up close and personal with Baron Ferdinand Von Mueller – Baron von Mueller was appointed government botanist for the then colony of Victoria by Governor Charles La Trobe in 1853, and later director of the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne. He also founded the National Herbarium of Victoria and named many Australian plants. Come along
Baron von Mueller Collection | Special Programs Read More »
Sit down with us as we read the paper that continues to tell the story of Ballarat. The BMI houses hard copies of this local icon dating back to its inception; what might you discover as you turn the pages of history? Cost: $15 BMI members | $25 Regular fee Book here View the full
The Ballarat Courier Collection | Special Programs Read More »
Trivia Night Fundraiser
26 August Doors open 6.45pm | Tickets also available at the door
$25 per person | $20 BMI members
Minerva's Secrets Night Tours
Tue 19 May with special visit to Lantern Vaults
Tour 1 at 7pm – Tour 2 at 9pm.
Calling for Pre-loved books
These donation assist in our Library Fundraising Activities
We can take delivery during regular Library operating hours. See website footer.
Coming in November…
Stella Day Out, Ballarat, Rachael Johns & Margaret Hickey
Spring Season, History Talks:
Ballarat's Henry Lawson - The Dragon's Den - Gold! Gold! Gold!
Wed 3, 17 & 24 September, 5.30pm.
Bubbly on arrival featuring quality items from our Vintage Shop
Pre-Sale $60 from 6 Aug to 9 Aug - $65 thereafter
The Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute 2026 Calendar
Featuring illustrations from our Heritage Book Collection $40
Your gift will be tax-deductible this financial year if you make it before June 30.
Like many organisations the BMI faces significant funding challenges.
