Retro & rock at the BMI

A NIGHT of rock and retro music is coming to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute this April.

The Shindig will feature three bands, the Hideaways, the Harmonies and Surf Shadows, with the evening acting as a fundraiser for the organisation.

“We run events at the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute all the time and we have since its inception in 1859,” president and board chair Paula Nicholson said.

“We have this amazing heritage building and sometimes people in Ballarat don’t even know it exists.

“Every year we try to do more that will bring members of the public into the venue.”

Tickets to the event are $110 for BMI members or $120 for the public and include a two-course meal by Malcolm Roberts as well as the three performances.

“These bands are basically made up of members that have been performing in and around Ballarat for a long time,” said Ms Nicholson.

“We thought we’d choose a set of ’60s and ’70s songs because they are really great to dance to.”

Funds raised from the evening will go towards protecting the heritage building and the running of programs.

“We’re all about providing talks, entertainment, performances, spaces for people, heritage activities and our venue is really a great showcase,” Ms Nicholson said.

“We are really trying to celebrate and maintain the Mechanics’ Institute as a venue for entertainment.”

The event will take place on April 13 from 7.30pm.

Tickets can be purchased on the BMI website.