Have fun at markets, become a dancing queen and visit some of the region's finest galleries. Check out the events that are showcased in The Bendigo Advertiser this week.

Women of Empire: The Homecoming

Following the success of their previous exhibition, Women Of Empire 1914 – 1918, Maldon curators, Keith and Fiona Baverstock, have opened Women of Empire: The Homecoming that explores the lives of more women a 100 years ago.

Through presentations of original costumes with stories, the exhibition asks viewers: How did women cope with physically and mentally broken men? And what about the women who survived the war only to perish in the Spanish flu epidemic?

Ticket prices are adult $10, concession $9, child 8+ $5. 

For more information phone curators Fiona Baverstock on 0428 380 524 or Keith Baverstock on 0424 361 918.

Where: Dudley House, 60 View Street, Bendigo.

When: Friday, May 4 to Sunday, May 13, 10am – 5pm.

Mother's Day Trading Table

With Mother's Day coming up soon, why not spoil mum throughout the week? 

On Thursday, you can stop by the St John of God Hospital Auxiliary trading table and pick up some of her favourites sweets and treats.

There will be delicious cakes, lots of slices and preserves.

The day will also feature beautiful handicraft for sale.

For more information contact Alison on 5439 7401.  

Where: Atrium area of St John of God Hospital, Lily Street, Bendigo. 

When: Thursday, May 10, 10am – 3pm.

Car Boot Sale

If you're looking for a gift for mum this Mother's Day or would like to bag a bargain, head over to the Anglican Parish of Kangaroo Flat's annual car boot sale.

Featuring dozens of stalls, pre-loved goods, direct sellers and the church's regular plant and book stalls, the day is one not to be missed.

There will also be cakes and a BBQ. 

For more information contact Geoff Young (evenings) on 0418 145 105 or email: younggeoff51@gmail.com

Where: St Mary's Anglican Church grounds. Enter via Church Street, Kangaroo Flat. 

When: Saturday, May 5, 8am – 1pm.

Back in Black (or White)

With a black and white theme, the Greater Bendigo Danceland are sure to bring out the toe tapping rhythm in you. 

Come dressed to impress in your formal gear or in something more fun. It's up to you. 

There will be great music, CD's, a fun raffle and lucky door prizes. There will also be a tasty homemade supper.

Entry is only $8 for the evening. For more information, contact Colin on 5447 9783.

Where: Uniting Church Hall, Myers Street, Bendigo. 

When: Saturday, May 5, 8pm – 11pm. 

Tourist Market

Join the Maryborough Lions Club for a great day of shopping, local community company and market fun.

The day will feature approximately 50 stalls covering crafts, preserves, produce, bric-a-brac, tools, clothing and community information stands.

Also on the day, to celebrate the Booktown Festival in Clunes, the Maryborough Lions Bookshop will also be open during the market hours. 

For more, phone Trevor Stevens on 0407 114 770.

Where: Corner of Nolan and Alma Streets, Maryborough (closed to road traffic between 6am and 2pm).

When: Sunday, May 6, 8am – 1pm.

Beginner Bridge Lessons

Try your hand at something new with The Bendigo Bridge Club. 

The club is offering beginner lessons for the challenging card game in a supervised session. The lessons run for six weeks and cost $80. 

Head along and learn a rewarding game. For enquiries/bookings contact Kevin on 0407 823 373.

Where: Long Gully Community Centre, 25 – 27 Havilah Road, Long Gully. 

When: Six weeks starting Wednesday, May 9, 2pm – 4pm.

Just Dance

The Spring Gully Hall Committee is hosting another fun Saturday evening dance.

Put on your dancing shoes and enjoy the great music by Mantel, a good program and a delicious home cooked supper.  

There is also a raffle and prizes. 

Admission $9.00 and everyone is welcome.  

For more information contact Keith on 5444 2953.

Where: Spring Gully Hall, 135 Spring Gully Road.

When: Saturday, May 5, 8pm – 12am. 

Do you have a community event you'd like featured in our What's On section? We'd love to know. Email us at: astrid.michael@fairfaxmedia.com.au or phone us on 5434 4470.