This Week In The Can

Posted on 10 July, 2017

Your essential guide to what’s on in Canberra this week!

HAVE AN EVENT YOU’D LIKE TO SEE LISTED IN THIS WEEK IN THE CAN? SUBMIT IT HERE BY COB WEDNESDAY PRIOR.

16 THINGS NOT TO MISS

OPENING WEEKEND OF CANBERRA CENTRE’S BEAUTY PRECINCT

SIP & SCENT EVENING MASTERCLASS WITH PHILLIP JONES & DIMITRI WEBER

Indulge in a night of beauty and cocktails. Sip on a signature cocktail while sampling new scents as Canberra’s ‘Martini Whisperer,’ Phillip Jones joins forces with fragrance expert Dimitri Weber to pair together custom fragrances with a bespoke Martini.

When: 6pm–7:30pm Friday 14 July

Tickets: eventbrite.com.au

MINIMALIST BEAUTY & LIFESTYLE MASTERCLASS WITH ELEANOR PENDLETON

Unveiling her expert advice for living a beautiful life, Eleanor Pendleton’s beauty masterclass will include a ‘no makeup’ makeup tutorial on a model, how she switches off from social media, her secrets to finding the perfect work/life balance, plus Eleanor will share the makeup tricks she swears by for special occasions.

Your ticket is redeemable for a $20 gift voucher at Canberra Centre. All guests will be treated to a glass of sparkling, catering and a gift bag.

When: 11am–12pm Saturday 15 July

Tickets: eventbrite.com.au

NATURAL BEAUTY & NUTRITION MASTERCLASS WITH LOLA BERRY

Take notes as healthy influencer and nutritionist Lola Berry shares insight into her wholistic approach to beauty and her top secrets for what you should be eating for a flawless complexion. In addition to her inner/ outer beauty recipes, she will divulge the products she loves and uses in her daily regimen for glowing skin.

Your ticket is redeemable for a $20 gift voucher at Canberra Centre. All guests will be treated to a glass of sparkling, catering and a gift bag.

When: 11am–12pm Sunday 16 July

Tickets: eventbrite.com.au

Constellations

A contemporary drama by winner of the 2012 Harold Pinter Award, Nick Payne. With sold-out seasons across the globe – now it’s Canberra’s turn to be delighted and moved by this ingenious, touching and intellectually searching work.

Marianne and Roland are polar opposites. A quantum physicist and a beekeeper. A big universe thinker and an everyday believer. String theory, parallel universes and Sliding Doors moments set the scene for this quirky and charming romance of endless invention.

Payne has crafted a work that catapults theatre into the future, confronting our questions of choice, control and certainty, and the multiple possibilities within one relationship. Witty, fascinating and heartbreaking – this astonishing two-hander is an unmissable, universe shifting show that will challenge how you see life, and change how you live it.

Showing Friday 14 July – Saturday 29 July at the Street Theatre, 15 Childers Street.

For more information including showing times visit the website.

Bastille Day Festivités at The Boat House

Celebrate Bastille Day Festivités at The Boat House on Lake Burley Griffin. Hear from chef John Leverink about the French influences in this ‘Modern French’ menu which includes local truffles from The Truffle Farm. Hear sommelier Kate Hibberson’s insights into the revered wine regions across France and the night’s hand picked wine selections.

Cheese expert (and legitimate Frenchman!) Olivier Bruge of Mart Delicatessen will host the evening, sharing some history on the famous day as well as talking through his délicieux French cheeses included on the menu — and providing advice on the ‘correct and courteous’ way to cut cheese!

It’s all topped off with beautiful French provincial styling by Lean Timms and a playlist designed by Olivier to set the mood!

This celebration offers seating at shared tables.

Happening Friday 14 July from 7pm – 11pm at The Boat House, Menindee Drive, Barton. Tickets $170.

Find more information on the website.

Mad Hatter’s Tea Party

These July School Holidays, get ready to go bonkers with the madcap circus mayhem of the Funatorium’s Mad Hatter’s Tea Party!

Your kids will be right in the action of it. Audience participation is a big part of this full throttle kids show.

Join them for a tea-riffic party hosted by the wackiest characters serving mind boggling tricks and sweet surprises.

Your kids will leap from their seats and giggle and gasp in delight!

Happening Wednesday 12 July – Friday 15 July from 11am to 2pm each day at the Canberra Theatre Centre, Civic Square, Canberra City.

Find more information including tickets on the website.

DANCING FOR FREYJA

Dancing for Freyja is a fundraising event dedicated to raise funds so little Freyja aged 5 years old can receive Proton Therapy to treat a rare form of Cancer – Clear Cell Sarcoma – this treatment is only available in Germany & the USA. 

Dance the night away for Freya ,to 70’s & 80’s disco music by DJ Michael Liu. 

Tickets $40 including finger food. Get your Flares, Fluro and Glitter On – Moet Champagne Bar, Photo booth, Auctions and Raffle. 

This is an over 18’s event.

Happening Friday 14 July from 7.30pm – 11.30pm at the Hellenic Club of Canberra, Matilda Street, Philip. Tickets $40.

Find more information on the website.

Sound and Fury: Cold Winter. Hot Party

Sound and Fury: Cold Winter. Hot Party combines music, theatre, dance, spoken word and song, in a melting pot of sights and sounds. Experience performance art like nowhere else, at one of Canberra’s most unique and spectacular parties.

After a sold-out event at the National Film and Sound Archive earlier this year, Sound and Fury returns to Nishi Gallery with a brand new party to beat the winter blues and warm the cockles.

Performances galore and plenty of surprises. Don’t miss out.

Happening Saturday 15 July from 8pm – late at Nishi Gallery, Kendall Lane. Tickets $20 + $1.69 fee.

Find more information including tickets on the website.

BASTILLE DAY WITH BUVETTE

Buvette Bistro and Wine Bar is lucky enough to have their very own French Executive Chef, who will spoil all guests with an indulgent a French style four-course dinner on Friday 14 July. Starting with pacific oysters, apple and truffle, the main course will follow with Pressed Duck confit and double-baked Comte cheese and truffle soufflé.

Buvette offers two options for the dessert that includes a beautiful selection of gourmet French-style cheeses. Choose a bottle of French wine to accompany your dinner or purchase Furphy beer or a glass or bottle of Piper-Heidsieck Brut NV Champagne.

Enjoy live entertainment and Buvette’s signature cocktail the Lillet Mode De Vie for your very special evening.

Bastille Day at Buvette | 14 July from 6pm – 10pm | Buvette Bistro and Wine Bar, 18 National Circuit, Barton | Book your table here.

For those who will fall in love with the charming atmosphere, there is also the option to continue the French celebration by attending a Bastille Day Petit Feast on Saturday 15 July.

Bastille Day Petit Feast | 15 July from 11.30am -2.30pm | Buvette Bistro and Wine Bar | Book on6163 1818

The Verbatim Project

In 2016 Canberra Youth Theatre presented The Verbatim Project, a new work performed by teenagers and members of Canberra Dance Theatre’s over 65 years GOLD company. Due to popular demand, The Verbatim Project will be back for two shows only at Canberra Theatre Centre before heading off on tour to Sydney.

Canberra Youth Theatre are proud to be the only theatre company in Canberra taking a production on tour outside of the ACT this year. The Verbatim Project was developed using the cast’s collective stories, experiences and pressures at different stages in their lives, asking “does age matter? In the end aren’t we all just having human experiences?” The work was shaped using audio interviews, video footage, live commentary and headphone verbatim technique, and is presented using physical theatre.

Showing Friday 14 July from 7pm and Saturday 15 July from 2pm at the Canberra Theatre Centre, Civic Square, London Circuit. Tickets $20.

Find more information on the website.

Sunday Roast at Pialligo Estate

Come and experience a two or three course Argentinian-style Sunday roast at Pialligo Estate, each Sunday from 12pm. Find more information here.

Sunday Roast is just $65 for adults, $30 for children (2-12 years old). Includes drink on arrival and a three-course shared menu included two roast varieties.

To book, contact the reservations team on 6247 6060 or make an enquiry here. 

FOOD & DRINK

Bastille Day Festivités at The Boat House

Celebrate Bastille Day Festivités at The Boat House on Lake Burley Griffin. Hear from chef John Leverink about the French influences in this ‘Modern French’ menu which includes local truffles from The Truffle Farm. Hear sommelier Kate Hibberson’s insights into the revered wine regions across France and the night’s hand picked wine selections.

Cheese expert (and legitimate Frenchman!) Olivier Bruge of Mart Delicatessen will host the evening, sharing some history on the famous day as well as talking through his délicieux French cheeses included on the menu — and providing advice on the ‘correct and courteous’ way to cut cheese!

It’s all topped off with beautiful French provincial styling by Lean Timms and a playlist designed by Olivier to set the mood!

This celebration offers seating at shared tables.

Happening Friday 14 July from 7pm – 11pm at The Boat House, Menindee Drive, Barton. Tickets $170.

Find more information on the website.

Truffles, Wine and Jazz

Get among the hunt this Truffle Festival Season. Mercure Canberra invites you to Truffles in July, This free event that encourages you to enjoy the evening with the truffle treats, wine tastings and free entertainment.

Wine Tasting by Long Rail Gully, Mt Majura Vineyard, Lerida Estate and Eden Road Wines. Food Stalls with Tarago Truffles Inspired Dishes from and bop the night away with Tilt Trio Jazz Band.

Happening Saturday 15 July from 4:30pm – 9:30pm Mecure Canberra, 39 Limestone Avenue, Braddon. Free Entry.

Find more information on the facebook event.

THE TRUFFLE FESTIVAL – CANBERRA REGION

Indulge in a feast of the senses with The Truffle Festival – Canberra Region; the first and largest festival of its kind in Australia. Each year from June to August more than 250 individual events are held across the Canberra region showcasing the region’s fresh Black Winter Truffle.

Taste and experience the magic of these highly-prized gems. Indulge in the special flavours and aromas of truffle dishes at local restaurants and cafes. Join a hunt and see for yourself how the talented dogs unearth truffles. Learn from the chefs and other truffle experts at a cooking class or demonstration, or pop along to a market and pick up some truffle delights for yourself.

Now in its ninth consecutive year, the Truffle Festival is the ultimate foodie festival, and a fabulous celebration of winter in the Canberra region.

On until Thursday 31 August 2017 across various Canberra Locations. For more information on opening hours and locations across Canberra visit the website.

BASTILLE DAY WITH BUVETTE

Buvette Bistro and Wine Bar is lucky enough to have their very own French Executive Chef, who will spoil all guests with an indulgent a French style four-course dinner on Friday 14 July. Starting with pacific oysters, apple and truffle, the main course will follow with Pressed Duck confit and double-baked Comte cheese and truffle soufflé.

Buvette offers two options for the dessert that includes a beautiful selection of gourmet French-style cheeses. Choose a bottle of French wine to accompany your dinner or purchase Furphy beer or a glass or bottle of Piper-Heidsieck Brut NV Champagne.

Enjoy live entertainment and Buvette’s signature cocktail the Lillet Mode De Vie for your very special evening.

Bastille Day at Buvette | 14 July from 6pm – 10pm | Buvette Bistro and Wine Bar, 18 National Circuit, Barton | Book your table here.

For those who will fall in love with the charming atmosphere, there is also the option to continue the French celebration by attending a Bastille Day Petit Feast on Saturday 15 July.

Bastille Day Petit Feast | 15 July from 11.30am -2.30pm | Buvette Bistro and Wine Bar | Book on6163 1818

Bastille Day Dinner at Pialligo Estate

Sunday Roast at Pialligo Estate

Experience a two or three course Argentinian-style Sunday roast at Pialligo Estate, each Sunday from 12pm.

Sunday Roast is just $65 for adults, $30 for children (2-12 years old). Includes drink on arrival and a three-course shared menu included two roast varieties.

To book, contact the reservations team on 6247 6060 or make an enquiry here.

DESTROYER TAKEOVER

Mal Hanslow is taking over Bar Rochford’s kitchen for two weeks from July 4 – July 15. After running Eightysix and working hard in two of Sydney’s best restaurants Automata & Ester, Mal will be showcasing the food that has inspired him along the way.

Bookings via the website www.barrochford.com or simply walk on in.

WINTER WARMING DEGUSTATION FEATURING ALI KING

Black Market have once again teamed up with Ali King to bring you a sumptuous degustation of winter warming cocktails and desserts.

They’ll be serving 3 original Ali King desserts perfectly paired with 3 original Black Market cocktails. Think seasonal flavours, comfort food, campfires and fireplaces, warm and spicy, rich and indulging.

Tickets are $95pp and bookings are essential as places are limited. Book now at http://bmbar.eventbrite.com/ to avoid missing out! On 12 July at 8pm at Black Market, 2 Phillip Law St, NewActon.

MOLLY & ALL THAT JAZZ

The local jazz duo of Thoms & Coventry will treat you to an evening of cool jazz custom-made for Molly. Known for delivering moving and hypnotic interpretations of some of your most loved jazz tunes, songstress Rachael Thoms and guitarist Lachlan Coventry are incredible musicians who are sure to make you swoon and swing!

Entry is free so venture downstairs every Tuesday for live jazz from 7-10pm with your favourite tipple on the side at Molly’s 35-37 London Circuit, Canberra.

LATIN TUESDAYS

Tuesdays are hot at Highball with Latin Tuesday’s social night. Hosted by the amazing team from Salsabor Dance Studio, learn how to shimmy and shake like a pro at the free Latin dancing taster class 6.30pm. Add a few cocktails and you’ve got yourself a Tuesday night that’s hard to beat.

6.30pm – Free Latin taster class
7.00pm – Continuation class
8.00pm – Social dancing

$12 cover l $5 extra for 45 mins class

Escape Canberra as you’re transported to Cuba for a night of Latin dancing and fabulous drinks that you’ll keep coming back for. On Tuesdays from 6.30pm at The Highball Express, 82 Alinga St, Canberra

CANBERRA TRUFFLE HUNTS

Rug up for a wintery experience and take a Canberra Truffle Hunt in the oak forest on Canberra’s only trufferie; The Truffle Farm. Follow the truffle dogs as they sniff out prized black Perigord truffles. Once the perfect truffle is found, head back into the warmth of the truffle shed to discover the secrets to using this highly prized delicacy.

Tours available Fridays to Sundays early June to August. They sell out fast so make a date with your favourite people and book now to avoid disappointment.

On every Friday to Sunday until 27 August at The Truffle Farm, Mount Majura Road, Canberra. Find information on the website.

MAJURA VALLEY EXPERIENCE

Take a journey through the Majura Valley into Pialligo for the ultimate truffle infused food and wine experience. The day includes a truffle hunt at The Truffle Farm, Wine Tasting and Truffled Brie at Mount Majura Vineyard and a three course truffle lunch at Pod Food.

Join Jayson at Canberra truffles for a truffle hunt, he will take you out with the dogs to find some truffles through the oak and hazelnut trees. Next head to Mount Majura Vineyard for truffled brie and wine, you can also taste through the range of wines while there. Lastly head to Pod Food in Pialligo for a three course truffle infused menu with a glass of Mount Majura Vineyard wine.

The Majura Valley Experience runs on weekends until Sunday 27 August 2017 at Canberra Truffles | Mount Majura Vineyard | Pod Food, Lime Kiln Road. Find more information on the website.

TRUFFLE INFUSED WINTER WEEKENDS AT CELLAR DOOR

Mount Majura is excited to once again include truffles at the cellar door as part of our winter tasting experience.

Come into the cellar door at Mount Majura Vineyard to taste a flight of three wines matched with truffled brie. We combine Flinders Estate Brie, a deliciously rich and creamy brie style cheese, with truffles from our neighbour Jayson at The Truffle Farm.

Every week we will be layering fresh truffles in the brie giving them time to infuse into the cheese, ready for serving on the weekend. To accompany this we’re pouring a flight of three 80ml glasses of wine matched to the truffled brie.

Bookings are essential to ensure the best experience possible.

Happening until Sunday 27 August 2017, every Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 5pm at Mount Majura Vineyard, Lime Kiln Road. Find information on the website.

Friday Soirée at Buvette

HIGH TEA ON THE BURBURY TERRACE 

Designed to blend tradition with innovation, the new Burbury High Tea menu also offers signature favourites with freshly- baked scones, strawberry macaron and finger sandwiches.

BURNELEE EXCURSIONS ON HORSEBACK: TWILIGHT RIDE 

Burnelee Excursions, Poachers Pantry and Eden Road Wines are working together to stage an exciting and adventurous night. Starting the evening will be a twilight horseback ride by Burnelee seeing the beautiful landscapes of the countryside, followed by Smoked meats tasting by Poachers Pantry and wine tasting by Eden Road wines. 5:00pm Arrival for a 5:30pm – 7:30pm Ride.

Happening until 16 December at Burnelee Excursions on Horseback, 320 Dicks Creek Road, Nanima. Find more information here.

HAVANA NIGHTS

Spend a night in Cuba courtesy of The Highball Express as the crew whisks you away to tropical Havana. Head in every Thursday from 4pm for Havana Nights where you can enjoy some exotic drinks and start the slide into the weekend.

They’ll be featuring mojitos and daiquiris for only $10 and will have all their usual suspects available too so there is always something for everyone regardless of whether you’re flying first class or coach.

Happening from 4pm at Highball Express, 82 Alinga St, Canberra.

See website for more information.

TACO TUESDAY

Your choice of chicken, pork, or beef in a soft shell taco with cabbage, shallots & coriander. Happening every Tuesday from 1pm-5pm at Ostani Bar & Restaurant, Hotel Realm, 18 National Circuit, Barton. For more information visit the website.

BURGERS & BEERS

A selection of Burgers and tap beer. Happening every Wednesday from 5pm-10pm at Ostani Bar & Restaurant, Hotel Realm, 18 National Circuit, Barton. For more information visit the website.

PIZZA & PALE ALE THURSDAYS

A selection of housemade Pizza paired with a schooner of James Squire Pale Beer. Happening at 5pm every Thursday at Ostani Bar & Restaurant, Hotel Realm, 18 National Circuit, Barton. For more information visit the website.

FILM, MUSIC & STAGE

Sound and Fury: Cold Winter. Hot Party

Sound and Fury: Cold Winter. Hot Party combines music, theatre, dance, spoken word and song, in a melting pot of sights and sounds. Experience performance art like nowhere else, at one of Canberra’s most unique and spectacular parties.

After a sold-out event at the National Film and Sound Archive earlier this year, Sound and Fury returns to Nishi Gallery with a brand new party to beat the winter blues and warm the cockles.

Performances galore and plenty of surprises. Don’t miss out.

Happening Saturday 15 July from 8pm – late at Nishi Gallery, Kendall Lane. Tickets $20 + $1.69 fee.

Find more information including tickets on the website.

Mad Hatter’s Tea Party

These July School Holidays, get ready to go bonkers with the madcap circus mayhem of the Funatorium’s Mad Hatter’s Tea Party!

Your kids will be right in the action of it. Audience participation is a big part of this full throttle kids show.

Join them for a tea-riffic party hosted by the wackiest characters serving mind boggling tricks and sweet surprises.

Your kids will leap from their seats and giggle and gasp in delight!

Happening Wednesday 12 July – Friday 15 July from 11am to 2pm each day at the Canberra Theatre Centre, Civic Square, Canberra City.

Find more information including tickets on the website.

Constellations

A contemporary drama by winner of the 2012 Harold Pinter Award, Nick Payne. With sold-out seasons across the globe – now it’s Canberra’s turn to be delighted and moved by this ingenious, touching and intellectually searching work.

Marianne and Roland are polar opposites. A quantum physicist and a beekeeper. A big universe thinker and an everyday believer. String theory, parallel universes and Sliding Doors moments set the scene for this quirky and charming romance of endless invention.

Payne has crafted a work that catapults theatre into the future, confronting our questions of choice, control and certainty, and the multiple possibilities within one relationship. Witty, fascinating and heartbreaking – this astonishing two-hander is an unmissable, universe shifting show that will challenge how you see life, and change how you live it.

Showing Friday 14 July – Saturday 29 July at the Street Theatre, 15 Childers Street.

For more information including showing times visit the website.

The Verbatim Project

In 2016 Canberra Youth Theatre presented The Verbatim Project, a new work performed by teenagers and members of Canberra Dance Theatre’s over 65 years GOLD company. Due to popular demand, The Verbatim Project will be back for two shows only at Canberra Theatre Centre before heading off on tour to Sydney.

Canberra Youth Theatre are proud to be the only theatre company in Canberra taking a production on tour outside of the ACT this year. The Verbatim Project was developed using the cast’s collective stories, experiences and pressures at different stages in their lives, asking “does age matter? In the end aren’t we all just having human experiences?” The work was shaped using audio interviews, video footage, live commentary and headphone verbatim technique, and is presented using physical theatre.

Showing Friday 14 July from 7pm and Saturday 15 July from 2pm at the Canberra Theatre Centre, Civic Square, London Circuit. Tickets $20.

Find more information on the website.

GIRLS ROCK! CANBERRA JULY PROGRAM

Ever wanted to learn an instrument, form a band and write a song? At Girls Rock! Canberra’s rock camp you’ll form a band, learn an instrument (bass, guitar, vocals, drums or electronic music), watch live music performances, participate in creative workshops- like making zines and screen printing band t-shirts- and write an original song to be performed at the end of the week. GR!C aims to empower girls aged 10-17 years old through a week-long mentorship program that encourages creativity, self-expression and teamwork through music.

Girls Rock! Canberra’s program is open to girls, trans and non-binary youth ages 10-17. No music experience required!

Financial aid is available. Registration through application – camper applications close Sunday 4 June.

Girls Rock! Canberra is supported by Ainslie and Gorman Arts Centres and the ACT Government

Happening Monday 10 July 2017 to Saturday 15 July at Ainslie Arts Centre, Braddon. Find information for session times, fees and more on the website.

MARKETS & FESTIVALS

Old Bus Depot Markets – Designer Sunday

Here’s a new reason to visit the markets – our new Designer Sunday. This monthly event, held on the third Sunday of every month, showcases fresh-thinking Australian designers, makers and artists.

See dynamic groups of creatives featuring their awesome designs in jewellery, fashion, accessories, homewares and artwork. Designer Sunday will feature many of our stallholders who previously attended Bling on Sundays, but we’ll also have several new, innovative designers joining in.

Happening Sunday 16 July from 10am – 4pm at the Old Bus Depot Markets, 21 Wentworth Avenue, Kingston.

Find more information on the website.

SOUTHSIDE FARMERS MARKETS 

Get along to the Southside Farmers Markets every Sunday morning and pick up the finest fruit and vegetables and produce our region has to offer.  There are over 50 stalls made up of farmers and producers who sell their food direct from their farm or kitchen.  Many farmers are out picking their produce the night before the market and you can certainly taste the difference.

Talk to the farmer direct and find out where your food is being grown, how they grow it, and even how they best like to cook it.  Not only do they provide us with fresh food every week but they are a wealth of information on the food that nourishes week in week out.

What’s in season this week?  Annual herbs, beans, peas, beetroot, capsicums, carrots, chillies, corn, cucumber, daikon, eggplant, garlic, onion, radishes, rhubarb, squash, zucchini, melons, stonefruit, strawberries, blackberries, raspberries, blueberries, tomatoes and more!

Every Sunday from 8.30am to 11am at Canberra College, 2 Launceston Street, Phillip. Entry is free, visit the website for more information.

FARMERS AND FOODIES MARKETS

A weekly food market with a focus on local and organic produce, amazing street food and boutique beer wine and spirits. Do your weekly shop, grab some dinner sit down and relax while you enjoy a cold drink at the end of a hot week! The Farmers and Foodies Markets are on every Friday from 4pm to 8pm at the Old Bus Depot Building, Wentworth Avenue, Kingston.

Visit the Facebook page for more information.

YASS FARMERS MARKETS

Support the local producers and come to the Yass Farmers Markets. Local wine, jams, sauces and craft items. Oil, baked goods and great coffee or juices. Vegetables and plants too. Home made food, arts and crafts.

It’s a great place to catch up with friends or to take a family and friends, with good weather expect to see the jumping castle and more stalls outside.

The Yass Farmer’s Markets have become a fantastic community event every first and third Saturday of the month. Have a coffee, relax and enjoy the ambiance and perhaps take in a local vineyard for lunch.

On until 7 October 2017 every first and third Saturday of the month from 10am- 1pm at St Augustines Church, Meehan Street, St Augustines Church.

Find more information on the website.

SOUTHERN HARVEST FARMERS MARKET AT BUNGENDORE

The Southern Harvest Farmers Market: selling sustainable, authentic, regional food: grown and made by the Community, for the Community.

The market is open every Saturday from 9am to noon and is a great source of fresh food and farm produce from around the region including meat, eggs, seafood, honey, fruit, vegetables, preserves and refreshments.

On every Saturday from 9am- 12pm until 16 September 2017 at Bungendore Anglican Hall, 25 Butmaroo Street.

Find more information on the website.

WORKSHOPS, TOURS & TALKS

Image via alpacamagic.com.au

A Buddhist, Philosopher and Neuroscientist on the Nature of Consciousness

The Contemplary is delighted to present a public dialogue between the philosopher David Chalmers, the neuroscientist Olivia Carter and the Buddhist contemplative Alan Wallace where they will explore such questions as: What is the nature of Consciousness? How does it arise? What is its relationship to the brain? What is its relationship to space, time and matter generally? Is it a universal, irreducible aspect of reality? What do we know about its potential?

Last year, the editors at Scientific American formulated twenty big questions about the future of humanity. “Will we ever understand the nature of consciousness?” was the number three question. While contemplatives and philosophers have examined the nature of consciousness for millennia, the scientific study of consciousness has only recently become an exciting new field attracting the attention of scientists from across a variety of disciplines.

Happening Saturday 15 July 2pm – 5pm at the National Gallery of Australia, James O Fairfax Theatre, Parkes. Tickets $25.

Find more information on the website.

Alpaca Magic Farm Tour

On this tour of Alpaca Magic, you will meet Alpacas, Llamas, Donkeys, Miniature Galloway Cattle, Poultry, and Japanese Koi Carp. This is an educational and interesting visit where, as well as meeting the animals, you will also learn about farming and animal husbandry. For those interested in how Llama and Alpaca fibre is used, you can observe spinning, and perhaps give it a go for yourself.

Happening 15 July from 9am – 10:30am at Alpaca Magic, 2771 Sutton Road. Tickets $30.

Find more information on the website.

Llamas in the Mist

On a misty morning watch the mist rise revealing a tranquil vista of paddocks and rolling hills, with dozens of alpacas and llamas peacefully grazing… Or on a frosty morning watch the frost on their whiskers and fleece become steam rising from their bodies as they amble up the paddock for their breakfast. This is a rare opportunity and one not to be missed – meet over 200 alpacas and llamas, learn about them, and take wonderful selfies with them.

Happening Sunday 16 July from 8:30am – 10am at Alpaca Magic, 2771 Sutton Road. Tickets $25-$30.

Find more information on the website.

SOUNDSHOWER & SOUNDHEALING WORKSHOP

Come bathe in pure sounds that will take you on a deeply transformational journey.

Learn some simple and fun vocal toning exercises, overtone singing and gain tools using your voice for your own practice and self healing.

NO PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE NEEDED.

On 15 July from 11.30am-3pm (workshop) and 7.00pm-8.30pm (Soundshower) at Bikram Yoga in Kingston.

Tickets are $35 for Soundshower, $85 for workshop or $100 for both.

Click here for more information.

AVIATION TEEN START-UP

Aviation Teen Start-Up is an innovation camp for 11 to 18 year olds, run during the July school holidays. With a focus on aerospace innovation, it encourages students to invent, explore and experiment and let their ideas take flight!

Over three fun-filled days, students are taken through the innovation development process from idea to execution. Student’s work together in teams to come up with an idea for a product or service that they believe provides a solution to a problem their generation will face in the future. The event concludes with the students pitching their concepts to a panel of judges.

There will also be behind-the-scenes tours of Canberra Airport, and fun, interactive activities that teach 21st Century skills. On 11 July from 9am – 4pm at Fairbairn Functions Centre, 49 Laverton Avenue, Fairbairn. Tickets are $200.00 (+GST) per student, for 3 day program.

Visit the website for more information www.teenstartupcamp.com.au

SEED SAVING

Join Canberra Seed Savers’ Arian McVeigh for an introductory workshop to saving herb and veggie seeds. There are many benefits to saving seeds; seed saving protects our heritage of abundant, open-pollinated food seeds from biodiversity loss. It also allows Canberra growers to make the most out of varieties that grow well in local conditions and can help reduce the

cost of growing your own food. Learn about basic seed saving techniques through practical exercises in this hands-on workshop. Arian will also share her tips for growing the best plants for seed in the Canberra region and explain how to be part of the Canberra Seed Savers Network. There will be plenty of opportunities for questions too.

On Tuesday 11 July 6pm – 8pm, Canberra Environment Centre. Tickets are $25. Visit the website for more information.

MAKING KIMCHI

Discover the many benefits of fermented foods and learn how to make your own kimchi with Nil Barcode Food’s Evangeline Lam. Kimchi is a staple Korean dish traditionally made with cabbage, spring onion, chilli, radish and a variety of seasonings. In this workshop you will:

 Discuss and learn about why fermented foods are beneficial for gut health

 Watch and participate in a kimchi demonstration where you will get to take a small sample home

 Enjoy some of Evangeline’s own kimchi

Saturday 15 July 1.30pm – 3.30pm, Canberra Environment Centre. Tickets are $25, visit the website for more information.

Stepping Forward: Combining social interaction with light exercise

FOR A GOOD CAUSE

DANCING FOR FREYJA

Dancing for Freyja is a fundraising event dedicated to raise funds so little Freyja aged 5 years old can receive Proton Therapy to treat a rare form of Cancer – Clear Cell Sarcoma – this treatment is only available in Germany & the USA. 

Dance the night away for Freya ,to 70’s & 80’s disco music by DJ Michael Liu. 

Tickets $40 including finger food. Get your Flares, Fluro and Glitter On – Moet Champagne Bar, Photo booth, Auctions and Raffle. 

This is an over 18’s event.

Happening Friday 14 July from 7.30pm – 11.30pm at the Hellenic Club of Canberra, Matilda Street, Philip. Tickets $40.

Find more information on the website.

Latin Party Fundraiser

Puente Austral Inc. is a non-profit organisation established in Canberra since 2005. They are a group of Argentineans that believe that education is a fundamental tool to create a better future. Their mission is to collaborate with rural schools in Argentina. One of their goals is to finance projects aiming at improving the civic and learning experience of students at rural school. To achieve this they organise one or two fundraiser events per year. 

Their fundraiser events are family friendly. 

This year they are co-hosting an event with the Argentina-Australia Solidarity Association Inc. from Sydney. Their event is fully endorsed by the Embassy of Argentina. All our proceeds will go to the School at the Canberra Hospital, and rural schools in Argentina. 

You will experience live music, dancing, the beat of DJ Casablanca, incredible traditional food, like empanadas, drinks and lots of fun. 

Happening Saturday 15 July from 6pm – 11:30pm at 40 Gillies Street, Curtin. Tickets $25.

Find more information on the website.

SPORTS

Empire Contracting 10 Year Anniversary Race Day

Enjoy a great afternoon of horse racing in the nation’s capital on one of the best tracks in the country at Thoroughbred Park. Empire Contracting 10 Year Anniversary Race Day has snack bar, bookies and tote facilities available.

Book a table in the members-only Black Opal Room or enjoy superb bar facilities in the Winning Post Bar (open to the public on non-feature race days). Purchase a members’ day ticket for $15 and enjoy a carvery luncheon in the Black Opal Room. Table bookings $30.

Happening Friday 14 July from 11:30am at Thoroughbred Park, Randwick Road, Lyneham. Free entry.

Find more information on the website.

Raiders V. Dragons at GIO Stadium

GIO Stadium will be the place to be on Friday night when the St George Illawarra Dragons come to town to battle arch their rugby league rivals, the Raiders. With a large number of former Raiders players in the Dragons current playing ranks, you can expect a high-intensity and brutal encounter between these two NRL sides.

Tickets for Round 19 of the Telstra Premiership available from Ticketek February 16.

Happening Friday 14 July at 7:50pm at GIO Stadium, Battye St, Bruce.

Find more information, including ticket prices on the website.

FIVB Men’s World Championship AVC Qualifications Tournament

Australia will be vying for a place in the 2018 FIVB Men’s World Championships, by hosting Pool B in the Asian Qualification Tournament in Canberra.

The FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship is an international volleyball competition contested by the senior men’s national teams of the members of Fédération Internationale de Volleyball (FIVB). The initial gap between championships was variable, but since 1962 they have been awarded every four years. The current champion federation is Poland, which won its second title at the 2014 tournament in home soil.

The one of the two finals of the Asian Confederation will be hosted in Australia in July 2017 where Australia will host Japan, Chinese Taipei, Thailand and New Zealand in the Pool B finals competition. The five day competition will take place at the AIS Arena in Canberra, with 2 games being played each day. The top two teams in the pool will qualify for the 2018 World Championship.

Happening Wednesday 12 – Sunday 16 July at AIS Arena, Leverrier Street, Bruce.

Find more information, including game times and ticket prices on the website.

Australian Bridge National Championships

The Australian Bridge National Championships is bringing the country’s best players to the nation’s capital. Take the opportunity to sit beside any table and see top level players in action.

Courtesy buses will be on hand to take you between a range of hotels, the championship venue and major tourist attractions.

Meet players from clubs around Australia and to learn about this fascinating game and how to participate.

Free entry for spectators.

Happening Saturday 15 July until Thursday 27 July from 10am – 6pm daily at Thoroughbred Park Function and Convention Centre, Randwick Road, Lyneham. Free entry for spectators.

Find more information on the website.

Live footy screenings at Ostani

KIDS

Image via VisitCanberra

KOALAS IN THE CANOPY

Search for Koalas in the Canopy and enjoy a ranger guided walk through the tall eucalypt forest at Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve. Hear the ranger’s story or two about these fascinating marsupials. Meet at the Eucalypt Forest car park.

Normal entry fees to Tidbinbilla apply. No bookings required for Koalas in the Canopy.

Arrive an hour early and see the pelicans being fed at Pond 4 at 1.30pm. Hear insights about pelicans and the other remarkable inhabitants of the wetlands from a Tidbinbilla ranger.

Saturdays 2.30pm – 3pm until Sunday 12 May 2018 at Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve. Find more information on the website.

Mad Hatter’s Tea Party

These July School Holidays, get ready to go bonkers with the madcap circus mayhem of the Funatorium’s Mad Hatter’s Tea Party!

Your kids will be right in the action of it. Audience participation is a big part of this full throttle kids show.

Join them for a tea-riffic party hosted by the wackiest characters serving mind boggling tricks and sweet surprises.

Your kids will leap from their seats and giggle and gasp in delight!

Happening Wednesday 12 July – Friday 15 July from 11am to 2pm each day at the Canberra Theatre Centre, Civic Square, Canberra City.

Find more information including tickets on the website.

Zoocation Holiday Program

Zoocation offers a unique experience for primary aged children. During a fun-filled day, children will get up close and personal with many of the zoo’s animals, play games, make toys for the animals, and maybe even learn something along the way.

Staffed and developed by the experienced and qualified Education Guides of the National Zoo and Aquarium, this program prides itself on delivering a program like no other.

Happening Monday 10 July – Thursday 13 July from 9am – 4pm at National Zoo and Aquarium, Lady Denman Drive, Weston Creek.

Find more information on the website.

AFL Holiday Program

On Tuesday the 11th of July the AFL will be running a school holiday program for boys & girls ages 4-10. Each participant will play a number of fun games and activities throughout the day run by trained AFL staff. At the end of the day participants will receive their very own NAB AFL Auskick pack including a pencil case, football, hat, cards and football pump all for $50pp. This will run from 8:00am – 5:00pm with drop off/pick up at anytime throughout the day. To register please visit www.aflauskick.com.au and type in 2600 or contact Lisa Kennedy – Lisa.kennedy@afl.com.au.

Happening Tuesday 11 July from 8am – 5pm at Harrison School, Wimmera Street, Harrison. Tickets $50.

Find more information on the website.

Aviation Teen Start-Up 2017

Over three fun-filled days, students are taken through the innovation development process from idea to execution. Students work together in teams to come up with an idea for a product or service that they believe provides a solution to a problem their generation will face in the future. The event concludes with the students pitching their concepts to a panel of judges. There will also be behind-the-scenes tours of Canberra Airport, and fun, interactive activities that teach 21st Century skills.

Happening Tuesday 11 July – Thursday 13 July from 9am – 4pm at Fairbain Functions Centre, 49 Laverton Avenue. Tickets $220.

Find more information on the website.

School Holiday Activities at the Lakes

Need to keep the kids busy this School Holidays? 

Head to the Lakes Club and enjoy lunch, morning or afternoon tea with a view while the kids are entertained by The Gecko Gang! With an indoor play area and games room, plus FREE School Holiday Activities the kids will be kept busy for hours. 
The Gecko Gang will doing: 
– Face Painting 
– Glitter Tattoos 
– Balloon Sculpting 
– Art & Crafts (at 1:00pm) 

Happening Tuesday 11 July and Tuesday 18 July from 11:30 – 3pm at Gunghalin Lakes Club, Gundaroo Drive, Nicholls.

Find more information on the website.

SCHOOL HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES AT THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF AUSTRALIA

Take the kids along to School Holiday Activities at the National Museum of Australia.

Ride a bike to the Museum these school holidays and join artist Hanna Hoyne to design a bike friendly city. Take a tour of the Freewheeling exhibition then make some bike accessories to take home.

Two facilitated sessions daily: 10–11.30 am and 11.30 am–1pm. Suitable for all ages and children must be accompanied by an adult.

Afternoon play space

Play, read or relax in their Bay Window play space. Curl up with a book or try one of the self-guided activities connected to Freewheeling.

Daily: 2–3.30 pm, FREE

All ages, children must be accompanied by an adult.

SCOOT! SCHOOL HOLIDAY PROGRAM

Are you a parent or grandparent who will be looking after primary age kids this July school holidays?

Do you like the idea of a half-day holiday program, so that you can have the morning off, but still spend quality time with them in the afternoon?

Oh, and what if it only cost you $20 for the whole week?

Lanyon Valley Anglican Church (LVAC) have been running their SCOOT! School Holiday Program for 8 years now. It’s a fun, affordable program for primary age kids, developed by trained primary teachers. Your kids will enjoy games, craft, sport, bible stories, food and music.

$5 per day or $20 for the week

Happening Monday 10 July 2017 to Friday 14 July from 9.30am-12.30pm at Gordon Primary School, ACT. To register or purchase tickets visit the website.

NAIDOC WEEK AT THE AUSTRALIAN WAR MEMORIAL

The Australian War Memorial commemorates NAIDOC Week with a series of free events.

HANDS-ON HISTORY

Let the kids try on uniforms, handle real objects, and uncover the story of a family featured in the exhibition ‘For Country, for Nation’

Mondays to Saturdays during NAIDOC Week and school holidays, excluding Fridays at 11 am.

SCHOOL PROGRAM AT THE AUSTRALIAN WAR MEMORIAL

There’s lots to discover this winter on School Holiday Programs at the Australian War Memorial.

FAMILY TOURS

Join Education staff as they share some of the fascinating stories behind the objects in the galleries. This 30-minute interactive tour is designed especially for children and their families.

Mondays to Thursdays at 10.15am

MAKE AND CREATE

Children and their families are invited to join the Education team for a free craft session. Make poppies and other creations to take home, and help make a collaborative work to display in the Education Space.

Thursdays and Fridays from 11.30 am to 1 pm

Happening from Saturday 1 July to Sunday 16 July 2017 at the Australian War Memorial. Find more information on the website.

STORY TIME IN THE ARCADE

Hear a different Australian story come to life on selected Wednesdays during winter. Story Time in the Arcade will be followed by craft activities.

Best suited to pre-schoolers, but all children under five are welcome.

Showing till Wednesday 30 August 2017 at the National Archives of Australia, Parkes. Find more information on the website.

AFTERDARK FINEFLY LANTERN TOUR

Experience the sights, sounds and smells of the Australian National Botanic Gardens‘ native Australian flora by night.

Start the evening with a delicious hot chocolate, then participate in the construction of your own hand made lantern.

Your tour leader will then take you on a fascinating after dark discovery of the Gardens using your ‘firefly lantern light’ to help guide the way.

AfterDark tours are suitable for adults and children over five years only.

Please wear flat shoes and warm clothing – gloves, coats and warm hats are essential during the winter months.

Showing from Thursday 01 July till Saturday 12 August 2017 at the Australian National Botanic Gardens. For tours times and entry tickets visit the website.

PLATYPUS PURSUITS

Take a Sunday walk with a wildlife ranger through Tidbinbilla’s wetlands in search of the elusive platypus. It is a great way to spend a relaxing afternoon. Meet at the Sanctuary main entrance. Bring binoculars.

Nominal entry fees to Tidbinbilla apply. No bookings required for Platypus Pursuits.

Arrive early to explore the rest of the sanctuary. You’ll see the pelicans being fed at Pond 4 at 1.30pm. Hear a ranger sharing insights about pelicans and the other remarkable inhabitants of the wetlands.

Showing until Sunday 1 October 2017 at Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve. Open the 1^st and 3^rd Sunday in September 3.30pm – 3.45pm. Find information on the website.

ABOVE AND BEYOND

Visit Questacon and join the epic journey into the sky and beyond!

Above and Beyond is the ultimate interactive and multi-sensory flight exhibition celebrating the power of innovation to make dreams take flight. From flying cars and supersonic planes to space elevators and mega-rockets, Above and Beyond takes you faster, further and higher for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Design and test-fly your own supersonic jet. Pilot a drone into the eye of a hurricane to measure nature’s fury. Spread your wings and experience flight as a bird or a futuristic wing-flapping aircraft. Or take an elevator ride to the edge of space.

Packed with fun interactive challenges, vehicle concept models and prototypes, immersive media presentations, and inspiring stories, this thrilling exhibition invites you to experience what it takes to make the “impossible” possible. Explore advanced aircraft and spacecraft that change our lives and transform our world. And join the epic journey into the sky and beyond!

Happening until Sunday 23 July from 9am-5pm at Questacon – The National Science and Technology Centre, King Edward Terrace, Parkes. Find more information here.

Friday Story Time at the Australian War Memorial

Hear stories of brave animals, extraordinary people, and faraway places, brought to life through puppets, uniforms, and educational toys.

Friday Story time at the Australian War Memorial is a program suitable for pre-school-aged children, but older brothers and sisters are also welcome.

Happening until Thursday 31 August 2017 every Friday from 10.30am at the Australian War Memorial, Campbell.

Find more information here.

RANGER GUIDED WALKS AND ACTIVITIES AT TIDBINBILLA NATURE RESERVE 

PLAY UP

Play Up pokes its tongue out at the idea that museums are hands off. Stand up, muck up, dress up, make up, think up and step up in a fabulous space that has turned the traditional idea of what goes on in museums completely on its head.

The exhibition has been developed with children and celebrates the 25th anniversary of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. Play Up celebrates the important role children have in the cultural life of our communities. Most importantly Play Up is a place for fun.

Open from 9am to 5pm daily at the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House.

LEAP INTO YOUR LOCAL LIBRARY

Your local library is a treasure trove…not only are there free books and resources, there are regular amazing events! Giggle & Wiggle with your little ones (up to two years) and help them learn through language play using interactive rhymes, songs, games and stories.

Looking to improve your English and make new friends, then head along to your local library for one of the informal English conversation groups. For more events and info check them out here.

STORYTIME FOR PRESCHOOLERS

Take your little ones along to the Australian National Botanic Gardens for some fun with stories, songs, rhymes and creative activities brought to life by the ACT Storytellers. An engaging treat for pre-school children, parents and carers.

First Friday of the month (different theme each month) and commences at 10am (duration one hour). Tickets are $5 per child and bookings are not required. Visit www.anbg.gov.au for more information.

EXHIBITIONS

Melodrama in Meiji Japan

Step into the tumultuous world of Meiji Japan (1868–1912), through a selection of stunning Japanese woodblock illustrations. Used to illustrate Japanese novels, these beautiful images, known as kuchi-e (literally, ‘mouth/opening picture’), accompany stories filled with drama, tragedy and intrigue, reflecting the uncertainty of the times.

Curated by Dr. Gary Hickey, the exhibition draws upon a substantial collection of kuchi-e amassed by University of NSW Emeritus Professor Richard Clough (1921-2014) and donated to the Library. This collection, along with other works acquired, forms one of the most significant collections of this genre in the world and the largest focused collection of Japanese art in Australia. The exhibition features over twenty artists and a range of subjects, illustrating a fascinating history of a genre profiled for the first time in a major exhibition.

Free entry. Showing every day from 10am-5pm until 27 August at the National Library of Australia, Parkes Place West, Parkes. Find more information on the website.

AVIARY

Aviary presents a gaggle of bird sculptures, paintings, prints and drawings drawn largely from the CMAG collection, which will be flocking into the gallery and nesting for several months.

Artists include Jan Brown, Linda Davy, Nicola Dickson, Annie Franklin, Kevin Gilbert, Patsy Hely, Steven Holland, and Danie Mellor.

Showing until Sunday 30 July 2017 at the Canberra Museum and Gallery, London Circuit. For more on entry fees and opening hours visit the website.

SAGERAW THONAR – STORIES FROM THE SOUTHEASTERLY SEASON

Sageraw Thonar – Stories from the Southeasterly Season: Contemporary Expressions of Cultural Knowledge from Badu Art Centre sees artists from Badu Art Centre in the Torres Strait examine cultural traditions and knowledge through large-scale linocut prints.

Featuring the work of Joseph Au, Aiona Tala Gaidan, Edmund Laza, Laurie Nona, Matilda Malujewel Nona, Michael Nona and Alick Tipoti, the works in the exhibition visually respond to the season of Sageraw Thonar in which the southeast winds blow. Animal totems, island flora, and environmental and cultural issues are discussed in the works that reveal the artists’ most important stories. These stories present to the world a dynamic depiction of the living culture in existence on Badu Island.

Presented by the Badu Art Centre and KickArts Contemporary Arts

Artwork: Michael Nona, Ngaziw Dhangalaw Ulakal, 2016, linocut print on paper, courtesy of the artist, Badu Art Centre and KickArts Contemporary.

Showing till Sunday 30 July 2017, daily from 9am-5pm at Parliament House, Canberra. Free entry. Find more information on the website.

THE WAY OF THE REFORMER: GOUGH WHITLAM

Gough Whitlam shaped the Australian nation, before that, the Australian nation shaped him. The Way of the Reformer: Gough Whitlam in His Century tells the story of the man behind the legacy – the bright Canberra schoolboy obsessed with Greek mythology, the RAAF navigator braving hazardous skies at the height of the Pacific war, and a young father starting a family on the urban fringe.

Happening from Friday 23 June to Sunday 3 September 2017, from 9am till 5pm at the National Archives of Australia, Parkes. For more information visit the website.

FINDERS KEEPERS: COLLECTORS AND THEIR STORIES

Peek into the personal collections of five fascinating collectors. Diverse, rich and often surprising, these collections are brimming with stories. From cherished mementoes of political careers, to well-worn protest T-shirts, each collection takes us on a journey through Australia’s democratic history.

Finders Keepers asks why do people collect, why do museums collect and what do our collections say about us? With 269 objects on display, the most in the history of the museum, Finders Keepers unveils the collector in us all and invites you to share your own collection story.

Families can explore the exhibition and discover what makes collectors tick with our fun, hands-on Finders Keepers Collector Kits.

Showing daily till Sunday 24 December 2017 from 9am-5pm at the Museum of Australian Democracy. Find more information on the website.

The Chandelier Show

The Chandelier Show promises to excite the senses and prompt genuine house-improvement envy! Come and see what these contemporary glass artists can do with a free design brief. Think swanky, slinky, slick and sophisticated.

Artists: Christine Atkins, Scott Chaseling, Ngaio Fitzpatrick, Jacqueline Knight, Kate Nixon, Tom Rowney and Wendy Dawes, John and Ruth White. Curator: Jane Cush.

Showing at the Canberra Glassworks until 7 August 2017.

Defying Empire: 3rd National Indigenous Art Triennial

Defying Empire: 3rd National Indigenous Art Triennial at the National Gallery of Australia brings the works of 30 contemporary Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists from across the country into the national spotlight.

This exhibition commemorates the 50th anniversary of 1967 Referendum that recognised Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as Australians for the first time. It explores the ongoing resilience of Australia’s Indigenous people since first contact, through to the historical fight for recognition and ongoing activism in the present day.

Be moved by powerful art that touches on the issues of identity, racism, displacement, country, nuclear testing, sovereignty and the stolen generations through many media: painting on canvas and bark, weaving and sculpture, new media, prints, photography, metalwork and glasswork.

This groundbreaking show is the largest survey yet at the NGA and it highlights the continued excellence and diversity of Indigenous practice today. Showing until 10 September 2017.

Worry will vanish revelation

‘Worry will vanish revelation‘ is a large-scale immersive video installation by Swiss contemporary artist, Pipilotti Rist on show at the National Gallery of Australia until 20 August.

An intertwining psychedelic microcosm of flesh and nature is projected on a 16-metre surround screen inside a dedicated space that engulfs the viewer in a meditative experience.

Accept the invitation to explore the sensation of being at one with the universe and every living organism in it. Remove your shoes and step inside an alternative space, recline on a soft cushion, give yourself permission to stop and stretch out. Allow your mind a reprieve from the day’s schedule, release your worry. Slow your breathing by relaxing each body part, starting with the soles of your feet right up to the top of your head. Absorb your new surrounds through your eyes and ears and try to sense your environment through every pore of your skin. Listen to the soundscape of a rhythmic, whirring pulse.

Free entry.

On show at the National Gallery of Australia until 20 August.

Rodel Tapaya: New art from the Phillipines

Exciting new talent Rodel Tapaya draws inspiration from Filipino folklore and contemporary events in an exhibition of recent mural-sized painting, sculptural installation and works on paper on exhibition at the National Gallery of Australia until 20 August.

By drawing inspiration from pre-colonial mythology and Filipino folkloric tradition, Tapaya meticulously pieces together numerous pictorial fragments, fusing the otherworldly with the real, in a visual grappling with contemporary politics, social and environmental issues.

Yes: The Ongoing Story of the 1967 Referendum

To mark the 50th anniversary of the 1967 referendum, the Museum of Australian Democracy is launching a new, collaborative exhibition. Yes: The Ongoing Story of the 1967 Referendum explores the journey of Australia’s most successful referendum campaign and asks what this far-reaching change means today. 

This is a joint exhibition by the Museum of Australian Democracy, the Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies and Reconciliation Australia.

Yes: The Ongoing Story of the 1967 Referendum is open now at the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House. Open 9am – 5pm daily. For more information visit the website. 

HANNAH QUINLIVAN AUTONOMY OF A DRAWING

At Canberra Museum and Gallery Hannah Quinlivan presents Autonomy of a Drawing. The artist uses the glass-walled space of Gallery Four on Civic Square to dissect and display the elements of a drawing, in an inversion of classic anatomical drawing, which peels away layers of skin and flesh to expose the structure beneath. Employing the conventions of those graphic traditions, Quinlivan separates various elements of a drawing and rearranges them on different spatial planes within the space, able to be viewed from different directions and angles; the whole interrogating our art-historical understanding of what can constitute a drawing.

Showing until 30 July 2017 at the Canberra Museum and Gallery, London Circuit. Opening Hours from 10am – 5pm on weekdays and 12pm – 4pm on Weekends. For more information visit the website.

PREVAILING VOICES – INDIGENOUS AUSTRALIANS PARLIAMENTARIAN

Timed to coincide with National Reconciliation Week 2017, the exhibition is intended to recognise and celebrate the contributions of Indigenous parliamentarians to the Australian Parliament.

Featuring portraits of current and former Indigenous parliamentarians, personal stories, footage of first speeches and other objects of significance.

Works from the Parliament House Art Collection, Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Studies (AIATSIS) and the National Portrait Gallery of Australia have been brought together for the first time for this historic exhibition.

Showing until Sunday 30 July 2017 at Parliament House, Capital Hill.

For more information visit the website.

Next

NEXT is a solo exhibition by South Australian designer and maker, Christian Hall. The exhibition will be a collection of furniture and objects that explore “the viewpoint” as a focus for design. Audiences will experience time and movement from the visual impact of shifting patterns and geometry generated by the moving around the pieces. NEXT questions traditional distinctions between functional and decorative, literal and ambiguous and between pure and applied art.

Happening until 15 July at CraftACT, 180 London Circuit, Level 1, North Building. Email craftact@craftact.org.au or call 6262 9333.

Emerging Contemporaries

Emerging Contemporaries is the Craft ACT National Award Exhibition for early career artists.

This exhibition plays a pivotal role in supporting and transitioning artists into professional practice and placing Australian artists in view of the national cultural collecting institutions, business and industry, and audience.

On display at CraftACT, 180 London Circuit, Level 1, North Building. Email craftact@craftact.org.au or call 6262 9333 for more information.

Kirstie Rea, The Land: A 20 Year Survey

Kirstie Rea established an independent studio in Canberra in 1987, following her graduation from the Glass program at the (then) Canberra School of Art. This exhibition documents her achievements over the past two decades as one of Australia’s leading contemporary glass artists. Much of the artist’s distinctive imagery has its genesis in rural experience. Her work often explores the growing separation between our increasingly urbanised lives and her perception of the natural environment.

Happening until Sunday 20 August 2017, Wednesday’s from 10am – 5pm and Weekends from 12pm-5pm at Canberra Museum and Gallery, London Circuit.

Find more information on the website.

Evolution: Torres Strait Masks

Developed by the Gab Titui Cultural Centre on Thursday Island, in partnership with the National Museum, Evolution explores the longstanding importance of ceremonial masks in Torres Strait culture, and how they continue to influence contemporary art forms.

Showing until 23 July 2017, 9am-5pm at the National Museum of Australia. Find more information on the website.

The National Photographic Portrait Prize 2017

See forty-nine of the year’s best photographic portraits at the 2017 National Photographic Portrait Prize. An annual prize open to both aspiring and professional photographers, the NPPP celebrates contemporary photographic portraiture from across the country, with the winner awarded $25,000.

Now in its tenth year, the prize continues to present surprising perspectives on contemporary photographic portraiture, with the images remaining an evolving kaleidoscope of the nation’s preoccupations and identity.

Happening daily at the National Portrait Gallery, King Edward Terrace, Parkes. Find more information on the website.

The Opening Day: 9 May 1927 

Old Parliament House was once brand new. What was it like to be a spectator at the opening ceremony? 

This new exhibition marks the 90^th anniversary of the opening of Old Parliament House and tells an important story in Australia’s democratic history from the perspective of onlookers in the crowd. Follow The Opening Day: 9 May 1927 around the corridors and discover the pomp and pageantry, humour and tragedy of this historic day.

The Opening Day: 9 May 1927 is on now at the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House. Open 9am – 5pm daily. For more information visit: moadoph.gov.au

Onetoeight: Australia’s First Prime Ministers  

Visually arresting, humorous and thoughtful, Canberra-based artist Alison Alder reinterprets and reinvigorates portraits of the first eight prime ministers in Onetoeight: Australia’s First Prime Ministers, a contemporary art exhibition.

See intense patterned wallpaper honouring the prime minister’s wives and a Term-O-Meter animation tracking the changing political hues of individuals and governments. Through the portraits Alder gives us a sense of Australia’s history that is lively, dynamic and parallels the present day.

Occurring until 24 February 2018 daily from 9am to 5pm at the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House.

For more information visit the website.

Facing Two Fronts: The Fight for Respect

How did war become a platform for advocating the civil rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people? Indigenous Australians have served in the Australian military since Federation. Their role was significant, yet largely unrecognised. For some, armed service provided equality. For others, discrimination.

Through the lens of military service and the stories of those who served, learn about Indigenous soldiers’ fight for social justice. A digital exhibition at the Archives featuring extraordinary images and records from our collection and a series of stirring video portraits.

Happening daily until Sunday 16 July from 10am at the National Archives of Australia, Queen Victoria Terrace, Parkes. Find more information on the website.

INDIGENOUS AUSTRALIANS AT WAR FROM TEH BOER WAR TO PRESENT

Indigenous Australians have served Australia in all major conflicts from the Boer War to the present. The armed services would provide a first experience of equal opportunity, although sadly not an enduring one. This Shrine of Remembrance travelling exhibition celebrates the courage, tenacity and resourcefulness of Indigenous Australians in the armed forces.

The exhibition uncovers the individual and family stories of service and sacrifice of the First Australians. The National Archives of Australia is proud to host the first Shrine of Remembrance exhibition ever touring to Canberra.

Showing until Sunday 16 July from 9am-5pm at National Archives of Australia, Queen Victoria Terrace, Parkes. Find more information here.

DRESS CODE: EMPIRE

Dress Code: Empire. An old coat rescued. Sir Edmund Barton revealed. In this exhibition you will discover an intriguing tale of power, prestige and Australia’s changing ties to Britain.

Discover Barton’s coatee, an exciting digital interactive, videos and school activities.

Showing until 1 August 2017 from 9am-5pm at the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House, King George Terrace, Parkes.

Find more information on the website.

NGA TALKS AND WORKSHOPS

Talks and workshops cater for a range of different age groups. For full details visit the NGA website.

BEHIND THE LINES 2016: THE YEAR’S BEST POLITICAL CARTOONS

Behind the Lines 2016: The year’s best political cartoons celebrates the role of political cartoonists in Australia and highlights the power that their drawings have in contributing to our daily political and social discourse.

Explore the unpredictable events of 2016 that shaped our political destiny – from Australia’s own double-dissolution, to Brexit and the shock Trump victory – through the sharpened wit and pencils of Australia’s best cartoonists.

There’s more than cartoons. Dress up in a crown and velvety red cape in the exhibition programming space, discover your political destiny with a game of political tarot or challenge your friends and family in political head.

Showing until 8 December 2017 from 9am- 5pm at The Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House, 18 King George Terrace, Parkes.

Find more information on the website.

ART IS A WEAPON

Art is a Weapon explores how the Eureka story, legend and iconography have been used by groups and causes of all political flavours to spread their message. Alongside the portfolio of works, other objects and artworks using the Southern Cross motif show how the idea of Eureka has been adopted by groups as diverse as young communists and motorcycle clubs.

Showing now at the Museum of Australian Democracy.

MAGNA CARTA – AN AUSTRALIAN STORY

This exhibition celebrates the 800th anniversary of Magna Carta, one of the most famous and significant documents for democracy and human rights around the world. First written in 1215, it set down rules limiting the power of the monarchy and safeguarding basic human rights and freedoms. This exhibition explores the history and relevance of Magna Carta from an Australian perspective.

Showing now at the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House.