Weddings

The Minerva Space

The Minerva Space provides a majestic backdrop for a formal dinner with dancing. This is a beautifully restored 1860 former grand hall located on the first level of the building. Its decorative heritage features offers elegance of years gone by whilst providing the facilities to host a contemporary reception. Seating/table capacity for up to 130 guests it provides ample room for dining and dancing.

Humffray Room

Perfect for more intimate gatherings, small ceremonies and cocktail parties, this beautifully restored heritage room, (1869) on the second level overlooking Sturt Street, can hold up to 100 seated theatre-style, 60 seated dinner-style and standing capacity for 180 guests. The room has a bar/servery, carpeted floor with small dance floor plus a Professional PA system available. This room also holds our 1913 C. Bechstein Grand Piano (6’4″) that can be used for your ceremony (tuning fees apply).

Celebrate your wedding at the Ballarat Mechanics Institute in one of the most elegant and historical buildings in Ballarat and create memories to last a lifetime.

The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute, located in the heart of Ballarat city, is the perfect venue to celebrate your wedding day. From sit down dinners to cocktail parties, our venue offers versatile spaces perfectly suited to receptions, ceremonies, dinners and parties.

Enter from the historic façade on Sturt Street via classic Victorian staircases to the first and second floor venues. The elegant staircases create a magical ambience and the perfect backdrop for photos. Alternatively, these spaces may be accessed by lift.

On the upstairs levels you reach the two venues we offer for your reception – the Minerva Space and the Humffray Room.

Both rooms rooms have lift access and are serviced by a dedicated Preparation Kitchen, providing caterers with purpose built facilities to assist with your reception. Round tables and tablecloths available ($15 per table). If required bar service also available.

For that extra special touch, why not combine the two rooms, utilising the elegant Humffray Room to greet guests with pre-dinner drinks and finger food before moving to the Minerva Space for the formalities, dining and dancing.

With the variety of rooms and options, the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute invites you to immerse yourself in the history and elegance of our venues for an incredible experience on your wedding day.

We also welcome you to use the venue for wedding photos. Our venue provides a beautiful backdrop that compliments other scenery around Ballarat. Our heritage stairs and rooms can provide that sense of history and lux for any wedding day photo.

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Christmas Holiday Closures | Library

Monday 23 December – Sunday 5 January

Devonshire Tea & Fashion Parade

Bubbly on arrival & Featuring quality items from our Vintage Shop | $60

The Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute 2025 Calendar

Featuring the BMI Image Collection | $40

Tax Deductible 

Your gift will be tax-deductible this financial year if you make it before June 30.

We need
your help.

2024 End of Financial Year Appeal 

Or alternatively go to our Donations web page.

Our Challenge

Like many organisations the BMI faces significant funding challenges. 

We thank you for your support.

BMI Fundraiser

Featuring:
The Hideaways,
The Harmonies &
Surf Shadows. 

2 course dinner & lots
of dancing