Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute

The BMI has three main spaces in its heritage building available for hire by persons, community groups or commercial organisations for meetings, cultural or social purposes.

The rooms vary in size and range of facilities available. They are in close proximity to each other and may be hired separately or in combination. In order of size, the spaces are:

The Minerva Space: This is the beautifully restored 1860 former hall and one time cinema area on the first level of the building. Its pressed metal ceiling and decorative features were restored in 2010 and it is painted in 19th century heritage colours. The new, flat, polished jarrah floor is sound insulated from rooms below. It has hydronic heating. The Minerva Space is served by the lift and has easy access to Williamson Foyer and Humffray Room.

The Hugh Williamson Foyer: This room (1869) is on the Mezzanine level immediately below the Humffray Room. It has lift access and holds up to 40 people seated theatre style, up to 60 standing.

The Hooper Room: is an ideal meeting room for up to 40 people.

The Humffray Room: This beautifully restored heritage room (1869) on the second level overlooking Sturt Street has a carpeted floor and a 4.5 x 5m polished board area. The Humffray Room can hold up to 120 seated theatre-style and 70 seated dinner-style.