From the desk of Roland Rocchiccioli

IT is not alarmist to speculate: without additional financial security there exists a real possibility the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute will cease to function in its present form. The institute houses a treasured collection of Ballarat’s history. Unambiguously, without a steady cash-flow it could be lost to a Melbourne based organisation better furnished to guarantee its conservation.

For all those so profoundly concerned about the retention of the city’s architectural and cultural integrity, the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute membership drive presents an opportunity to “put your money where you is” — to financially support the organisation; to monetarily demonstrate the reality of your commitment.

A membership costs $65-per annum — $50 in this current drive — plus a bonus Max Harris image. It is impossible to believe Ballarat does not have 2000 residents able to afford an annual subscription to deliver the required cashflow to maintain this glorious landmark, and its continued traditional operation into the future.

The public-purse, financial pie is not getting any larger and with increased demand the slices are becoming smaller. Writing letters to newspapers and organising petitions does much to raise public awareness but nothing to relieve the financial demands being faced by the BMI, and other such independent associations. If Ballarat residents want for these important institutions to survive they must be part of the solution — which demands communal financial patronage to guarantee operational independence.

The Ballaarat Mechanic’s Institute (BMI) was founded in 1859. A direct consequence of the England’s Industrial Revolution, they were established to provide free classes, lectures, and affordable education for working ‘mechanics’ men — and eventually, women. Libraries were established to cultivate community life in bourgeoning urban areas. Hitherto, 1000 such institutions were dotted across Victoria; today, Ballarat’s institute is one-of-ten still operating traditionally and maintaining a library.

The BMI houses several important collections, including the Max Harris Photography Collection — an incomparable pictorial history of the city compiled over forty-years and with photographic images from various public, private, and personal sources. The outstanding portfolio was purchased by the Haymes family (the late David and Jenny) who gifted it the BMI. Its loss would be a cultural catastrophe. If impecuniousness were to force a decision to relocate the significant BMI collection it would be lost forever. Forever!

BMI Chair, Paula Nicholson, said:” The Ballaarat Mechanics Institute is at the historical and cultural heart of Ballarat and remains independent, apolitical, and secular.

“In the times before Government-funded libraries and adult education, Mechanics’ Institutes provided much-needed access to information in the form of books, newspapers, periodicals, lectures and scientific demonstrations. Their halls also provided local communities with an accessible place for social, cultural, and recreational gatherings. Today, the purpose is the same as we champion an inclusive and diverse BMI community.

“Membership is a wonderful way to support not only the Institute, but the wider community to retain this incredible asset, and all it represents. I challenge anyone to look through the wide variety of events and programmes on offer at the BMI and not at least be curious to come-in and find-out what it’s all about.

“Our heritage building, its remarkable contents, and subsequent activations, stand testament to this community as together we continue to strive for a flourishing future. Come along and join this welcoming community — there really is something for everyone.”

Roland can be heard with Brett Macdonald radio 3BA — Monday 10.40am. Contact: [email protected]