An Afternoon with Darren Palmer, ACT Brumbies Women do battle, and the National Wine Festival: 80+ ways to spend this week in Canberra
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The long weekend might be over, but that doesn’t mean the fun has to stop. Canberra is delivering in spades.
This week, you can spend an afternoon with renowned Australian interior designer, author, and television personality Darren Palmer, shop at the Handmade Market, head to a compelling launch of a new talk series at the National Library and have an unparalleled wine tasting experience at the Hyatt.
The only question is, where will you start?
Don’t miss…
An Afternoon with Darren Palmer
Spend an inspiring winter afternoon in the company of renowned Australian interior designer, author, and television personality Darren Palmer. Hosted at the beautiful Vero Galleria showroom in Queanbeyan, this intimate in-conversation event offers an exclusive look into Darren’s approach to interiors, materiality, and high-end residential design.
Guests will hear firsthand insights on emerging design trends, the timeless role of stone in contemporary architecture, and the crucial choices that shape well-resolved spaces, all while browsing Vero Galleria’s curated collection of natural and engineered stone.
Saturday 13 June. Times vary | Vero Galleria, Queanbeyan | eventbrite.com
National Wine Festival of Australia
Wine connoisseurs, clear your weekend diary because the ultimate national celebration of Australian viticulture is returning to Yarralumla. Marking 51 years of celebrating our country’s most prestigious wine accolades, the National Wine Show of Australia offers an unparalleled tasting experience at the Hyatt. Every single bottle entered into the awards will be open for tasting, including the top trophy winners. Spend a sophisticated afternoon sampling incredible drops over three hours, enjoying gourmet snacks, attending expert masterclasses led by leading winemakers and sommeliers, and discovering hidden gems from the finest Australian wine regions.
Friday 12 and Saturday 13 June. Times vary | Hyatt Hotel Canberra, Yarralumla | nationalwineshow.com.au
Why didn’t anyone tell me Australian history was interesting?
Join She Shapes History founder Sita Sargeant for the compelling launch of a new talk series at the National Library. Sita will be joined by filmmaker Santilla Chingaipe, researcher Jacinta Mackay, and content creator Harini Rangarajan to explore the fascinating versions of Australia that were left out of our school textbooks. Together, these three inspiring women examine why many people feel disconnected from our national past and discuss the incredible hidden treasures within the library’s collections. It is an engaging, eye-opening conversation that challenges conventional narratives and breathes new life into our history.
Saturday 13 June, 10.30 am–12.30 pm | National Library of Australia, Parkes | library.gov.au
ACT Brumbies vs NSW Wararahs – Super Rugby Women’s Round 2
Gather the family and head out to Wanniassa for a classic Sunday afternoon of premium local sport. Viking Park is set to host an action-packed clash as our ACT Brumbies Women’s side takes on the reigning champions, the NSW Waratahs, for Round 2 of the Super Rugby Women’s season. As the first official home game of the year, the Brumbies will be looking to capitalise on home-ground advantage and secure a thrilling victory. With plenty of fantastic entertainment scheduled both on and off the field, it promises to be the perfect winter afternoon of park footy.
Sunday 14 June, 2.05 pm–4.05 pm | Viking Park, Wanniassa | brumbies.rugby
Floral Impressions: Coins in Bloom
The Royal Australian Mint’s exhibition Floral Impressions: Coins in Bloom draws on never-before-seen objects from the National Collection to explore the rich symbolism of flowers on coins from around the world. The exhibition traces how floral designs struck into metal carry stories of national identity, cultural heritage and remembrance — from Australia’s kangaroo paw and the South African protea to the Western Samoan Teuila.
Decorative motifs such as laurel, olive and oak wreaths, used for centuries as symbols of victory, peace and strength, also feature. Commemorative coins in the exhibition show how flowers have honoured significant historical moments and individuals across cultures.
Until March 2027 | Royal Australian Mint, 62–114 Denison Street, Deakin | ramint.gov.au
Special Events and Festivals
Handmade Market Canberra
Our favourite award-winning indoor market is back to help you embrace the winter season in style. Head over to Exhibition Park to discover more than 260 independent Australian designers and producers showcasing everything from handcrafted ceramics and sustainable fashion to artisan spirits and freshly baked pastries. As a registered supporter of the Australian Made Campaign, every purchase directly champions small businesses. For a more relaxed shopping experience, the market is hosting a dedicated Low Sensory Hour on Sunday morning from 9 am, complete with accessible facilities and plenty of free parking.
Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 June. Times vary | Exhibition Park in Canberra (EPIC), Lyneham | handmadecanberra.com.au
Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow
Australia’s most iconic comedy tour is rolling into Civic for a massive twenty-eighth year, bringing a much-needed dose of laughter to our winter. Featuring a dynamic, hand-picked lineup of festival legends and the brightest fresh faces from the 2026 Melbourne International Comedy Festival, this top-tier show promises absolute happiness. Gather your favourite fun-loving friends, lock in your seats at the Canberra Theatre Centre, and get ready for a hilarious night out packed with brilliant wit and non-stop stand-up entertainment. It is the ultimate antidote to the chilly winter season.
Saturday 13 June, 7.30 pm–8.30 pm | Canberra Theatre Centre, City | alist.com.au
Family Pixar Trivia
Round up the kids and head down to the valley for a fantastic afternoon of friendly family competition. Henry’s is hosting a free-to-play Family Pixar Trivia event that will test your knowledge on all the beloved animation classics, from Toy Story and Finding Nemo to Monsters, Inc. and The Incredibles. It is a wonderful excuse to enjoy some delicious food and drinks together while sharing plenty of laughs. Gather your cleverest team, embrace the playful atmosphere, and make some great weekend memories. Bookings are absolutely essential to secure your spot.
Saturday 13 June, 1.30 pm–5.30 pm | Canberra Southern Cross Club Tuggeranong, Greenway | cscc.com.au
Marvel Superheroes Family Trivia
Assemble your smartest squad and fly down to the valley for an action-packed afternoon of friendly family competition. Henry’s is hosting a completely free-to-play Marvel Superheroes Family Trivia event that will test your knowledge on everything from Iron Man and Spider-Man to the Avengers and the cosmic reaches of the MCU. It’s the perfect excuse to round up the kids, enjoy some delicious pub food and drinks, and share plenty of laughs over friendly weekend competition. Teams of all sizes are welcome, but bookings are absolutely essential to lock in your table.
Saturday 13 June, 1.30 pm–5.30 pm | Canberra Southern Cross Club, Tuggeranong | cscc.com.au
Food + Drink
Terroir Wine Pairing Dinner
Indulge in a premium, intimate evening of fine dining and award-winning local culture in the historic heart of the city. The Hyatt Hotel Canberra is playing host to an exclusive dinner where each delicious course is expertly paired with top trophy-winning drops from the National Wine Show. Guided by the esteemed Chair of Judges, Matt Harrop, your palate will journey across Australia’s most iconic wine regions, from crisp sparkling starters to full-bodied reds and rich fortified wines. Set within the elegant Canberra Room, it is a sophisticated night out celebrating a genuine sense of place.
Friday 12 June, 6.30 pm–9.30 pm | Hyatt Hotel, Yarralumla | hyatt.com
National Wine Festival of Australia
Wine lovers, clear your weekend diary because the ultimate national celebration of Australian viticulture is returning to Yarralumla. Marking fifty-one years of celebrating our country’s most prestigious wine accolades, this exclusive two-day festival offers an unparalleled tasting experience at the Hyatt. Every single bottle entered into the National Wine Show will be open for tasting, including the top trophy winners. Spend a sophisticated afternoon sampling incredible drops, enjoying gourmet snacks, attending masterclasses led by leading winemakers and sommeliers, and discovering hidden gems from the finest local wine regions.
Friday 12 and Saturday 13 June. Times vary | Various locations | nationalwineshow.com.au
French-Inspired Perigord Truffle Dinner
Indulge in a premium winter dining event that celebrates local ACT-grown truffles alongside the comforting traditions of rustic French cuisine. Executive Chef Bradley Howden will present a luxurious four-course menu inspired by the Perigord region of France, a destination renowned worldwide for its rich truffle heritage and hearty winter dishes. Utilising classic French culinary techniques, Chef Brad’s curated menu focuses on elevating the intense, earthy aromas and complex flavours of fresh local truffles while delivering a warm, authentic, and beautifully upscale dining experience.
Saturday 13 June. Times vary | Canberra Southern Cross Club, Tuggeranong | cscc.com.au
Sunday Buffet Lunch
Treat the family to a relaxed, indulgent Sunday feast without any of the kitchen cleanup. Held monthly inside the leafy, sun-drenched Atrium Restaurant & Bar, this popular buffet lunch is the perfect excuse to gather your favourite foodies for a long, lazy afternoon together. Guests can graze their way through a generous, premium spread featuring fresh seasonal salads, quality cold cuts, hearty hot dishes, and a decadent array of sweet desserts. Seats are strictly limited for this comforting culinary experience, so secure your table online early, come hungry, and leave completely happy.
Sunday 14 June, 12 pm–3 pm | Pavilion on Northbourne, Dickson | pavilioncanberra.com.au
Winter Wine and Providore Series
Warm up your Friday evenings this winter with a complimentary fireside tasting series in one of our city’s most historic lounges. Head down to the elegant Griffin’s Lounge at the Hyatt for a cosy, relaxed hour discovering the fascinating stories behind the vines. You can sip on incredible drops crafted by some of Australia’s finest independent winegrowers and makers. No prior bookings are required for this delightful seasonal series, making it the perfect way to unwind after a busy week, chat with industry experts, and sample premium national wines.
Every Friday throughout June, 5 pm–6 pm | Hyatt Hotel Canberra, Yarralumla | hyatt.com
Markets
Pandoras Recycled Fashions O’Connor – Everything Half Price Sale
Pandoras recycles high-end designer clothes, shoes, handbags, hats & jewellery. Top quality fashions at reasonable prices Everything you need to refresh your wardrobe from casual, work, evening or wedding. As the season changes Pandoras is having a half price sale to make room for all the fabulous Winter clothes we have ready to go.
Pandoras is based at St Philip’s Church in O’Connor and proceeds support local Canberra charities.
Half price sale dates are for three weeks on Saturday 18 and 25 April and 2 May. This is followed by the Winter launch on Saturday 9 May.
Pandoras is open every Saturday, 10 am–1 pm | Lamerton Centre, St Philips Church, Cnr Moorhouse and Macpherson Streets | facebook.com
Capital Region Farmers Market
This farmers’ market is iconic for a reason.
Go along to sample the region’s freshest produce from over 100 stallholders who bring freshly picked, grown and hand-crafted goods to Canberra and speak directly with growers and learn cooking tips while supporting the Rotary Club of Hall’s community projects.
It will make you appreciate your Saturday morning shopping trip in a whole new way.
Saturdays, 7 am-11:30 am | Exhibition Park in Canberra, Mitchell | capitalregionfarmersmarket.com.au
Old Bus Depot Markets
Lovers of fine hand-crafted wares, clothing collectors, food fanatics and jewellery junkies are just a few of the people who head to Canberra’s award-winning Old Bus Depot Markets every Sunday. In a fabulous old industrial building, you’ll experience the endless colour, tastes, sounds and atmosphere that is “Canberra’s Sunday Best”.
Not your average market, each week you’ll find over 200 stalls of exceptional quality, featuring items all hand-crafted by local and regional creatives. The sheer variety means you’ll discover something unexpected every visit, whether that’s a piece of pottery that speaks to you, a stunning necklace, or the perfect vintage find. There’s simply no better way to spend your Sunday in Canberra.
Sundays, 9.30 am – 2.30 pm | 21 Wentworth Avenue, Kingston | obdm.com.au
Southside Farmers Markets
This village market is located at Canberra College, making it the perfect place to duck in to grab what you need (and maybe a few things you don’t). Order an egg and bacon roll to start the morning as you explore the best of fresh seasonal veggies, handmade pasta, pet treats and more.
Sundays, 7 am -11.30 am | 2 Launceston Street, Phillip | facebook.com/SouthsideFarmersMarketCanberra
Haig Park Village Markets
Another local favourite, spend your Sunday morning browsing delicious cuisines, fresh produce, artisan products and locally handmade crafts while enjoying live music, an artists’ table and family-friendly activities.
It’s the kind of market where you can linger over breakfast, discover a new artist, and stock up on fresh produce all in one lovely morning, making it the perfect Sunday outing in leafy Braddon.
Sundays, 8 am – 2 pm | Haig Park, Girrahween Street, Braddon | haigparkvillagemarkets.com.au
Sport and Wellness
Fitness in The Park
Fitness class for all levels of fitness for the whole community. Join Ginninderry local Vince as he takes you through a group fitness class in the fresh air at Paddys Park.
Every Wednesday, 7.30 am to 8.30 am, Paddys Park, Asimus Avenue, Strathnairn | Find out more here.
Yoga at Ginninderry
Get bendy on Thursday evenings at a yoga class! You don’t need any experience – just head along for the slow-flow class that will help melt away tension, build strength and mobility, and give you a chance to recharge. Take along a yoga mat, water bottle, and comfy clothes.
Every Thursday, 6.45 pm to 7.45 pm | The Link, 1 McClymont Way, Strathnairn | More information here.
Recharge in Nature – A mindful guided walk
Escape the rush of the working week and reconnect with your inner calm at Mulligans Flat. This peaceful, two-hour guided nature walk invites you to slow down, practice grounding techniques, and become fully present in the natural world. Led by an experienced guide, the walk incorporates gentle mindfulness practices and reflective prompts designed to tune your senses into the quiet beauty of the local sanctuary. It is a beautiful, restorative experience that will leave you feeling completely recharged, centred, and deeply connected to both the stunning Canberra landscape and yourself.
Sunday 14 June, 10 am–12 pm | WildBark at Mulligans Flat, Throsby | latitude55.com.au
Music
The Elegy Project: Wesley Lunchtime Concert
Take a mid-week break and traverse classical, jazz, and folk landscapes with the latest instalment of the Wesley Lunchtime Concert series. Directed by Kimberley Steele alongside talented collaborators Christopher Pound and Rachael Thoms, The Elegy Project is an exciting new music venture that explores the profound beauty of elegies across different eras and genres. The evocative program will be brought to life by a dynamic vocal ensemble, a live jazz quartet, and moving solo piano movements. Your ticket includes entry to the performance, a physical program, and light refreshments to enjoy after the show.
Wednesday, 10 June, 12.40 pm–1.20 pm | Wesley Music Centre, Forrest | wesleycanberra.org.au/music
Cola (CA)
If your winter music playlist is in serious need of a fresh injection of energy, the university campus is the place to be this June. Acclaimed Montreal post-punk trio Cola are making their highly anticipated Australian debut to celebrate their refined new album, Cost of Living Adjustment. Known for their taut, hypnotic live performances, the band delivers an intricate, beautiful, and sometimes wonderfully strange sonic experience. Tim Darcy, Evan Cartwright, and Ben Stidworthy will showcase their carefully honed aesthetic impulses in a sharp, high-energy show. Grab your gig besties, secure your tickets, and get ready for a stellar night of live music.
Thursday 11 June, 7 pm–11.30 pm | UC Hub, Bruce | moshtix.com.au
Tubular Bells
Music lovers are in for an absolute treat as Mike Oldfield’s seminal masterpiece is brought to life in a spectacular, expansive live performance. Led and arranged by Oldfield’s long-term collaborator Robin A Smith, this breathtaking concert features the iconic album Tubular Bells performed in full. Audiences will also be treated to extended, sweeping sections from Tubular Bells II and III, alongside a beautiful rendition of the worldwide hit single Moonlight Shadow. It is a world-class sonic experience right in Civic, promising an evening of nostalgia, intricate arrangements, and pure musical brilliance.
Friday 12 June, 8 pm–11.59 pm | Canberra Theatre, City | davidroywilliams.com
The Concert That Never Was: Sinatra. Streisand. Strings.
Imagine the spectacular, emotionally charged collaboration that musical history never quite managed to deliver. The Zeppelin Room is hosting a bold tribute to two of the most iconic voices of all time, bringing Frank Sinatra and Barbra Streisand together in spirit. Starring the critically acclaimed Penny Pavlakis alongside Australia’s favourite crooner Grant Galea, this special show breathes life into an unrealised moment. Backed by the sweeping live strings and cinematic arrangements of Vov Dylan and his Palace Orchestra, it is a deeply authentic, luxurious night out designed for true lovers of classic showbiz glamour.
Friday 12 June, 7 pm–11 pm | The Zeppelin Room, Narrabundah | events.humanitix.com
Chamber Musicale: ANU Community Music Centre
Support our city’s thriving community music scene by joining the talented students of the ANU Community Music Centre for a beautiful evening of free classical performances. The Larry Sitsky Recital Room will host two distinct, same-day showcase concerts featuring the impressive efforts of the chamber and vocal ensembles from semester one. Audiences can look forward to a wide, diverse variety of musical groups and unique instrumental combinations, making it a wonderful opportunity to experience high-quality chamber music in a warm, encouraging environment. You are welcome to attend one or both concerts.
Friday 12 June, 6 pm–8.15 pm | Larry Sitsky Recital Room, ANU School of Music, City | music.cass.anu.edu.au
Bohemian Rhapsody
Step inside the beautiful Wesley Church for a warm, historically rich concert celebrating the incredible musical culture of Baroque-era Bohemia. Historical accounts frequently celebrated Bohemians as some of the most musical people in all of Europe, a grand legacy beautifully reflected in this curated performance. Featuring an array of exceptionally cultured pieces, the evening captures the joyful, communal spirit of historical European court music. It is a wonderful excuse to skip the winter chill, gather your favourite music aficionados, and experience a luminous, acoustic treat performed right in the heart of Forrest.
Friday, 12 June, 7.30 pm–8.45 pm | Wesley Church, Forrest | baroque.com.au
Joe Chindamo and Zoe Black in Concert
Experience a spectacular musical partnership where classical virtuosity seamlessly fuses with contemporary jazz. Award-winning Australian composer and pianist Joe Chindamo joins forces with exceptional violinist Zoe Black for a special concert at the Tuggeranong Arts Centre. Renowned for their fearless creativity, the duo will showcase distinctive, brilliant interpretations of masterpieces by Piazzolla, Gershwin, Ellington, Handel, and Chopin. Chindamo will also perform a selection of his own much-loved original compositions, delivering an emotionally resonant, electrifying performance that has previously captivated audiences from the Melbourne Recital Centre to Carnegie Hall.
Saturday 13 June, 7 pm–9 pm | Tuggeranong Arts Centre, Greenway | tuggeranongarts.com
Legends of Aussie Rock
Rock your socks off this weekend with a thrilling live show celebrating the greatest anthems in Australian music history. Presented by top local show band Smooth Ops, this one-night-only extravaganza at the Irish Club promises an unforgettable night of pure rock ‘n’ roll energy and nostalgia. Get ready to hit the dance floor and belt out iconic tracks from beloved legends like Cold Chisel, INXS, AC/DC, Baby Animals, The Divinyls, and Crowded House. It is the ultimate celebration of the electrifying, homegrown sound that has defined generations of Aussie music fans.
Saturday 13 June, 8 pm–11 pm | Canberra Irish Club, Weston | trybooking.com
Ten Part Invention: Album Launch
Celebrate a massive milestone in Australian jazz as the legendary ensemble Ten Part Invention takes the stage to mark 40 years since their formation. Founded by the late John Pochée OAM, the group is celebrating with the launch of their brand-new album on ABC Jazz, Time Is Moved. Led by Co-Musical Directors Miroslav Bukovsky and Sandy Evans, this powerhouse ten-piece band features some of the country’s most decorated improvisers. Collectively boasting decades of ARIA wins and international festival appearances, the group continues its rich legacy by performing an extraordinary repertoire exclusively written by Australian composers.
Sunday 14 June, 4 pm–6 pm | The Street Theatre, Civic | thestreet.org.au
Stage and Screen
2026 HSBC Spanish & Latin American Film Festival
Get ready to turn up the heat this winter as the highly anticipated HSBC Spanish & Latin American Film Festival arrives in the capital. Palace Electric Cinema will showcase a sensational, curated selection of contemporary cinema from Spain and Latin America. Celebrating its 29th edition, this year’s festival offers a tantalising first taste of global cinema, featuring a lineup that spans award-winning dramas, historical epics, a salsa music documentary, and a star-studded romantic comedy featuring some of Latin America’s most recognisable talent. It’s the perfect winter escape for film buffs and culture lovers looking to immerse themselves in rich storytelling and vibrant international perspectives.
Wednesday 10 June until Sunday 5 July | Palace Electric Cinema, NewActon | spanishfilmfestival.com
Club Sandwich Comedy Featuring Carlo Ritchie
Grab a mate and head down to the valley for an unforgettable evening of premium laughs at Tuggeranong Arts Centre. Lovingly curated and hosted by award-winning national headliner Chris Ryan, this cult-favourite comedy night returns with a stellar, fresh lineup designed to tickle your funny bone. The hilarious Tom Gibson takes on hosting duties, with the multi-talented comedian, actor, and writer Carlo Ritchie headlining the stage. Backed by fantastic support from industry favourites Bec Des, Harris Stuckey, and Marie Anagnostis, it promises to be one of the best nights of humour this year.
Thursday 11 June, 7 pm–9 pm | Tuggeranong Arts Centre, Greenway | tuggeranongarts.com
Travelling North
Treat yourself to an evening of classic local theatre with a moving homage to love, family, and the older radicals who shaped our national identity. Canberra REP Theatre is staging a fresh amateur production of David Williamson’s Travelling North, a timeless Australian play that explores relationships and mortality during a season of great personal change. The story follows Frank and Frances as they seek a tropical tree change, embarking on a twilight love affair that deeply unsettles their conventional children. It is a beautifully written, emotionally resonant piece that masterfully balances lighthearted humour with genuine, poignant reflection.
Thursday 11 June until Saturday 27 June. Times vary | Canberra REP Theatre, City | canberrarep.org.au
The Deep Blue Sea
Chaika Theatre is bringing a fresh, emotionally charged new production of Terence Rattigan’s masterpiece to the Kingston arts scene. Set amidst the post-war austerity of 1950s London, The Deep Blue Sea follows the turbulent journey of Hester Collyer as she navigates a passionate affair with a troubled ex-fighter pilot while facing intense isolation. This compelling interpretation features intimate staging and powerful local performances that capture the raw, complex undercurrents of human relationships. It is a poignant, gripping piece of live theatre that masterfully balances despair with a fierce battle for self-liberation.
Friday 12 until Saturday 27 June. Times vary | ACT Hub, Kingston | acthub.com.au
Talks and Workshops
Pints & Insights
Elevate your casual Thursday night drinks with a special World Cup edition of Gungahlin’s favourite intellectual series. Head down to Cypher Brewing Co to join leading local experts as they unpack the science, strategy, and hidden dynamics shaping elite modern sport. The fascinating lineup features Josh Waugh exploring how team identity shapes training data, Professor Julien Périard examining whether safeguards protect player health during severe summer heat, and Dr Charles Mountifield pulling back the curtain on the accountability of sports agents. It is the perfect opportunity to learn something new while enjoying a refreshing independent brew.
Thursday 11 June, 7 pm–9 pm | Cypher Brewing Co, Gungahlin | cypherbrewing.com.au
Maritime Mayhem in Early Botany Bay
Uncover a little-known chapter of our national past with an engaging evening lecture at the National Library. Maritime historian Chris Maxworthy returns to Canberra to expand on his fascinating research, revealing how the convict settlement at Port Jackson became a bold and influential British base in the Pacific. Discover how early whalers and adventurers launched daring privateer voyages against Spanish colonies during the French Revolutionary wars, culminating in the remarkable 1801 capture of a Spanish warship by former convicts. It is an eye-opening look at the strategic value and strategic mayhem of early colonial history.
Thursday 11 June, 6 pm–7 pm | National Library of Australia, Parkes | library.gov.au
LLMs unplugged: a tech-free guide to understanding and teaching AI
The ANU School of Cybernetics is running a hands-on workshop exploring how large language models (LLMs)–the technology behind tools like ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini and Copilot–actually work, without touching any tech. Through interactive activities and discussion, participants explore the basic principles and language of LLMs, including their probabilistic nature, the role of data, and how bias can emerge. The workshop is also tailored for primary and high school teachers, with activities replicable in the classroom using everyday materials. Educators can accrue two hours of accredited PD time through TQI.
Thursday 11 June, 2–4 pm | Innovation Space, Level 2, Birch Building #35, ANU, Acton | events.humanitix.com
Malaria, Medicine, and Hope: Standing with Myanmar
Join host Virginia Haussegger AM for a vital and deeply insightful evening panel discussion centered on international healthcare and humanitarian efforts. Organised by the Dr Rose McGready Foundation in coordination with the ANU Myanmar Research Centre, the event features 2026 ACT Australian of the Year, Professor Rose McGready, alongside Dr Hannah Kelly and Dr Phyu Phyu Thin Zaw. The panel will discuss the ongoing challenges of malaria and its severe impact on the health of mothers, children, and marginalised communities in Myanmar, while sharing pathways of hope for the future. Ticket prices include light refreshments from 5.30 pm.
Thursday 11 June, 5.30 pm–7.30 pm | Superfloor, Marie Reay Teaching Centre, ANU | drrosemcgreadyfoundation.org.au
Neon Projects Experience at Canberra Glassworks
Step out of your creative comfort zone with a truly unique, two-day weekend masterclass exploring the vibrant world of neon production. Designed for beginners aged sixteen and over, this intensive workshop teaches you how to heat, stretch, and shape glass tubes into luminous custom forms. Guided by highly experienced neon artist and sign maker David Cooper, who brings three decades of industry expertise, you will learn the fundamental principles behind authentic neon creation. By the end of the weekend, you will take home your very own glowing neon sign, handcrafted completely by your own hands.
Saturday 13 June and Sunday 14 June, 10 am–4 pm | Canberra Glassworks, Kingston | canberraglassworks.com
Canberra Made Series – Paint Your Way with Jenny Adams from Popcorn Art
Brighten up your Saturday with a beautifully relaxed, nature-inspired painting workshop led by popular local artist Jenny Adams. Hosted by the Canberra Visitors Centre, this beginner-friendly session focuses entirely on creative exploration, colour, and personal wellbeing rather than rigid technical perfection. With over twenty years of experience, Jenny is known for her bold shapes and vibrant, decorative style that reflects the positive impact nature has on our mental health. All materials are provided, and Jenny will guide you step-by-step through a supportive process, ensuring you take home your own completed artwork.
Saturday 13 June, 10 am–1 pm | Canberra and Region Visitors Centre, Parkes | visitcanberra.com.au
Digital Photography Fundamentals – One Day Workshop
If you are eager to finally step away from auto-mode and master your digital camera, PhotoAccess is hosting the perfect weekend intensive. This hands-on workshop provides absolute beginners with a practical understanding of manual focus, composition, aperture, shutter speed, and ISO. Under the expert guidance of experienced photographer and tutor Julian Lumb, you will apply these newly established skills throughout the day and receive valuable, constructive feedback. Designed for users of DSLR or mirrorless cameras, it is a wonderfully rewarding opportunity to build creative confidence in a supportive environment.
Saturday 13 June, 10 am–4 pm | PhotoAccess, Griffith | photoaccess.org.au
School Holidays – Wand-Making Class
Keep the kids thoroughly entertained these school holidays with a touch of ancient magic. Quizzic Alley is hosting hands-on wand-making classes designed for aspiring young witches and wizards eager to master the art of spell casting. Participants will craft their very own custom wand, specifically fitted to their hand and imbued with traditional wand lore to reflect their unique character. Once the magical crafting is complete, students can sit back and unwind with the delicious, butterscotchy goodness of a chilled QBrew. It is a wonderfully imaginative, creative holiday activity right in the heart of Fyshwick.
Sunday 14 June, 12.30 pm–1.30 pm | Quizzic Alley, Fyshwick | quizzicalley.com
Drill Hall Lecture Series: Artworks of Significance
Ignite your creative passion and stimulate your cultural curiosity with the launch of the Drill Hall Gallery’s 2026/27 Lecture Series. Delivered by a stellar lineup of national and local art theorists, writers, curators, and academics—including Mary Eagle, Howard Morphy, Jude Rae, and Ian McLean—this dynamic series offers audiences an informed and rounded experience of visual art. The upcoming lecture delves into complex ideas surrounding art history, context, and aesthetics, with topics spanning Yolŋu art and abstraction, the historic city of Siena, contemporary painting traditions, and regional groundedness.
Sunday 14 June, 2 pm–3.30 pm | Coombs Lecture Theatre, Acton | dhg.anu.edu.au
Lecture Series: Artworks of significance: ideas, history, aesthetics and context
Stimulate your creative passion with a compelling afternoon lecture at the ANU campus. The Drill Hall Gallery’s dynamic new lecture series brings together significant national and local art theorists, curators, and academics to offer rounded insights into the visual arts. This particular session dives into diverse topics ranging from Yolŋu art and abstraction to local groundedness against global fascism. Featuring a prestigious lineup of speakers including Mary Eagle, Howard Morphy, and Jude Rae, it is an inspiring opportunity for local culture lovers to explore complex ideas, history, and aesthetics in a welcoming academic environment.
Sunday 14 June, 2 pm–3.30 pm | Coombs Lecture Theatre, Acton | dhg.anu.edu.au
Exhibitions
Edge of Presence | Brenda Page
Indulge your cultural curiosity in Civic with a striking new contemporary glass art exhibition. Developed during a creative residency at Canberra Glassworks and expanded in her own studio, artist Brenda Page presents Edge of Presence at Craft + Design Canberra. This beautifully resolved, sculptural body of work utilises the delicate and reflective qualities of glass to examine mortality, transition, and the broader human condition. The exhibition holds a powerful space for stillness and quiet pause, inviting viewers to contemplate what shapes us thoughtfully, what we carry through life, and how we might gracefully meet our endings.
Thursday 11 June until Saturday 18 July. Times vary | Craft + Design Canberra, City | craftanddesigncanberra.org
Veins of Air | Akie Haga
Step inside the North Building to experience a fleeting, transparent landscape that captures the invisible currents around us. Glass artist Akie Haga’s latest exhibition, Veins of Air, explores how an unseen element can be perceived through subtle shifts in physical form and movement. Using experimental glassmaking techniques, Akie delicately traces organic structures like seeds and pods through clear, coloured, solid, and blown elements. The resulting installation is a beautifully poetic, quiet exploration of the natural world, offering local art lovers an ethereal sensory experience that celebrates the delicate, unseen connections within our environment.
Thursday 11 June until Saturday 18 July. Times vary | Craft + Design Canberra, City | craftanddesigncanberra.org
Relics and ruins: Thomas Bucich at Grainger Gallery
Thomas Bucich presents Relics and Ruins at Grainger Gallery in Fyshwick. Drawing on a lifelong practice of collecting talismans, objects and visual memories, the works explore the collision of classical and sacred references with the raw physicality of the human figure and natural landscape. Bucich works across cast bronze, carved stone, manipulated found objects, and works on paper and canvas. A New York native and long-term Australian resident, his commissions include the Thredbo Sculpture Prize and the Moss Vale Veterans War Memorial. The exhibition opens Thursday 11 June at 6 pm, with an artist talk on Saturday 13 June at 2 pm.
Thursday 11 to Sunday 28 June | Grainger Gallery, 1/34 Geelong Street, Fyshwick | graingergallery.com.au
Reclamation | Jessika Spencer (Wiradjuri)
Immerse yourself in a powerful multidisciplinary exhibition by acclaimed Wiradjuri weaver Jessika Spencer, who has called Ngunnawal/Ngambri Country home for over a decade. Reclamation brings together traditional natural fibres and contemporary artistic expression to honor memory, cultural identity, and an enduring relationship to Country. Grounded in ancestral knowledge and careful land management, Jessika’s beautiful practice spans natural weaving, photography, and writing. Her stunning works offer local culture lovers a deeply thoughtful, intimate look into First Nations heritage and the vibrant continuation of cultural storytelling right here in our city.
Friday 12 June until Saturday 18 July. Times vary | Craft + Design Canberra, City | craftanddesigncanberra.org
Step Into The Limelight | ‘Break Through’ Exhibition
Now celebrating its milestone 20th year, Step into the Limelight 2026 invites the community to experience ‘Break Through’—a bold and imaginative art exhibition. Spanning three gallery spaces and Chutespace at M16 Artspace, this showcase highlights the immense talent, diverse perspectives, and vivid imaginations of Canberra’s K–12 public school students. From striking abstract interpretations of pushing boundaries to deeply personal reflections on overcoming life’s obstacles, the collection features a dynamic mix of painting, sculpture, digital art, textiles, and mixed media that celebrates the profound value of creative learning.
Friday 12 until Sunday, 28 June. Times vary | M16 Artspace, Griffith | exhibitions@m16artspace.com
Beata Tworek: The Pensive Beauty of Absence
Warsaw-born and Canberra-based photographer Beata Tworek presents a deeply moving solo exhibition at Q Gallery. The Pensive Beauty of Absence explores the complex concepts of time, memory, and identity through the poignant visual language of cemeteries. Drawing on her visits to historic burial grounds across Australia, the United Kingdom, and Poland, Tworek utilizes expert photography and traditional photogravure—including modern direct-to-plate techniques—to capture the contemplative atmosphere of spaces where the natural world gradually envelops human memory. Tworek brings over 30 years of elite expertise to her practice as a former National Gallery of Australia conservator.
Friday 12 until Wednesday 25 June. Times vary | Q Gallery, Ainslie | q-gallery.com.au
Rear Vision: The Holden Collection
Take a nostalgic drive through the history of an absolute Australian icon with Rear vision: the Holden collection at the National Archives. This fascinating exhibition traces Holden’s journey from a humble 19th-century saddlery to ‘Australia’s Own Car’ and its permanent impact on the nation’s economy, industrial landscape, and cultural identity. Visitors can explore historical archival records, rare artifacts, blueprints, and photographs that reveal the innovations, challenges, and people behind General Motors-Holden. Developed by the State Library of South Australia and expanded with national records, the exhibition also offers daily gallery talks.
Friday, 12 June until Sunday 11 October | National Archives of Australia, Parkes | naa.gov.au
Pigment, Powder, Wax, Sand
Artists Dionysia Salas, Jacqueline Bradley, Roslyn Lemoh and Merryn Lloyd present Pigment, Powder, Wax, Sand at Tuggeranong Arts Centre. Born from years of friendship and shared creative dialogue, the exhibition brings together four distinct practices that run in parallel yet resonate with one another in quiet, material ways.
Since 2019 the artists have met regularly to discuss their work, and this exhibition reflects that ongoing conversation–a shared site where works, ideas and vulnerabilities sit side by side. A panel discussion with all four artists takes place on Saturday 2 May at 1:30 pm. Free entry.
Until Friday 13 June | Tuggeranong Arts Centre Gallery | tuggeranongarts.com
There and Back Again – Peter Bitmead
Peter Bitmead presents There and Back Again at Tuggeranong Arts Centre, an exhibition exploring his return to Canberra after 14 years farming in rural Tasmania. Working across printmaking, painting and ink, Bitmead examines the differences and surprising similarities between these two environments, past and present. The work reflects a circular journey encompassing several themes, both current and historical, united by underlying global concerns such as climate change. An artist talk on Saturday 16 May at 1:30 pm offers a chance to hear more about the ideas behind the work. Free entry to the gallery.
Until Friday 13 June | Tuggeranong Arts Centre Gallery | tuggeranongarts.com
Nature Speaks – Vladimir Gottwald and Kate Shaw
Nature Speaks at Tuggeranong Arts Centre pairs stone sculptures by Vladimir Gottwald with a large-scale drawing by Kate Shaw. Gottwald’s works are fashioned from found black limestone, shaped by nature over time into expressive zoomorphic and anthropomorphic forms. Shaw’s expansive drawing serves as a counterpoint to the sculptural pieces, creating a dialogue between two- and three-dimensional responses to the natural world. The exhibition sits alongside the centre’s other current shows, Pigment, Powder, Wax, Sand and There and Back Again, as part of TAC’s autumn gallery program. Free entry.
Until Friday 13 June | Tuggeranong Arts Centre Gallery | tuggeranongarts.com
BLAZE
BLAZE is an exciting group exhibition at Canberra Contemporary, featuring 8 emerging artists from the Kamberri/ Canberra region and beyond. Working across diverse mediums to address various themes ranging from identity and autonomy to the significance of today’s algorithmic culture and its effect on socialisation – the artists in BLAZE signal an exciting direction in contemporary visual arts practices today.
Until Saturday 20 June | Canberra Contemporary, 44 Queen Elizabeth Terrace, Parkes | canberracontemporary.com.au
Rematriate by Jessika Spencer
‘Rematriate’ is a feminist, First Nations reimagining of “repatriate,” recentring matriarchal knowledge, cultural care, and Indigenous sovereignty. Through woven banners and textile installations made from secondhand and naturally dyed materials, Jessika Spencer expands her weaving practise into acts of cultural resistance and craft activism. Grounded in sustainability and ancestral practice, the works speak to survival, healing, and the ongoing rematriation of culture back into Indigenous hands.
Until Sunday 21 June | Platform, 19 Furneaux Street, Manuka | canberracontemporary.com.au
Painting Itself / 绘画本身
The Drill Hall Gallery at ANU, in partnership with the School of Art & Design Gallery and Perth Institute of Contemporary Arts, presents a thought-provoking international painting exhibition that asks what it means to look for the “face” of a work–that quality in a painting that looks back at its maker. Curated by Jonathan Nichols, Painting Itself / 绘画本身 brings together five painters from Singapore, Hong Kong, Malaysia and China whose practices collectively reshape long-held assumptions about painting’s history and vitality, challenging the dominance of European and American values in the field. A quietly radical and visually compelling exhibition for anyone who takes painting seriously.
Until Sunday, 28 June | Drill Hall Gallery, ANU | drillhallgallery.anu.edu.au
Yvonne Poole: Small Works and Scribbly Gums
Immerse yourself in layered interpretations of place with a stunning exhibition by artist Yvonne Poole at Strathnairn Arts. Inspired by the unique colours, textures, and forms of the Australian environment, this collection brings together two-dimensional and three-dimensional works reflecting on waterways, vegetation, and geological formations. A distinctive aspect of Poole’s practice is the dialogue between painting and ceramics, highlighted by her recognisable Scribbly Gum ceramic pieces. The exhibition also features intimate, 9×5-inch landscape paintings inspired by Australian Impressionists, some beautifully rendered on repurposed, irregularly shaped wooden boards.
Until Sunday, 28 June. Times vary | Strathnairn Arts Homestead Galleries, Holt | strathnairn.com.au
Of Ravens and Rivers: Kerry McInnis and Mike MacGregor
Kerry McInnis and Mike MacGregor are two Canberra artists united by a shared interest in the environment, landscape, wildlife and waterways.
McInnis’s paintings of waterways explore the river as a conduit of life and a metaphor for survival, depicting the interconnectedness between river and earth. MacGregor’s drawings and sculptures juxtapose the forms of Man and the Raven, illustrating the remarkable connection between the two.
Together, their works form a conversation about the natural world and our place within it. Of Ravens and Rivers opens at the Pivot Gallery on Friday 22 May and runs through to 5 July.
Until Sunday 5 July, 10 am–4 pm Tue–Sun | Belconnen Arts Centre, West Gallery, 118 Emu Bank, Belconnen | belcoarts.com.au
Abstract Connotations: Brian Hincksman
Brian Hincksman’s Abstract Connotations presents a body of work that pushes back against rapid technological and social change by turning attention to the natural environment. Hincksman’s process moves between contemplation and action, responding to the fluidity of paint through colour, form, tone and varied mark-making. The resulting works aim to inspire respect for common humanity, explore the beauty and power of the natural world, and imagine ways of living in greater harmony with each other.
Until Sunday 5 July, 10 am–4 pm Tue–Sun | Belconnen Arts Centre, West Gallery, 118 Emu Bank, Belconnen | belcoarts.com.au
Becoming Now: Barbara Dawson
Barbara Dawson’s Becoming Now uses botanical forms as the central language for exploring the human journey. Across charcoal drawing, stitched textiles and photographic silk pieces, the exhibition examines themes of endurance, presence and emotional resonance–using plants as vessels to reflect lived experience. Dawson’s work explores the tension between strength and vulnerability, suggesting that human experience is layered, evolving, and shaped by connection, memory and time.
Until Sunday 5 July, 10 am–4 pm Tue–Sun | Belconnen Arts Centre, West Gallery, 118 Emu Bank, Belconnen | belcoarts.com.au
Dear earth…
Dear earth… is an open A5 unframed exhibition bringing together artists from throughout Australia to explore the concept of “earth”–our home, the environment, soil, land, and all that lives within it. Artists of all ages, viewpoints and levels of experience respond to this theme through drawing, painting, printmaking, photography and mixed media. The resulting collection provokes awareness, dialogue, political activism, experimentation and deep contemplation. Visitors are invited to vote for their favourite work in the People’s Choice Award.
Until Sunday 5 July, 10 am–4 pm Tue–Sun | Belconnen Arts Centre, West Gallery, 118 Emu Bank, Belconnen | belcoarts.com.au
Works
Explore the expressive possibilities of line and colour in this exhibition by artist Steve Roper. Featuring a collection of abstract works across pencil, ink, crayon and watercolour, the exhibition reflects an ongoing exploration of form, movement and perception. The pieces invite viewers to interpret shapes and patterns in their own way, creating a personal connection with the work. It’s a thoughtful and quietly engaging showcase that highlights the evolving nature of artistic practice.
Until Sunday 5 July | Belconnen Arts Centre, Belconnen | belcoarts.com.au
Abstract Connotations
This exhibition delves into the relationship between human experience and the natural world through a series of contemporary abstract works. Using colour, form and fluid mark-making, the artist explores themes of change, connection and coexistence. Each piece reflects a balance between contemplation and spontaneity, encouraging viewers to consider their own place within a shifting environment. It’s a visually engaging and reflective exhibition that speaks to both personal and shared experiences.
Until Sunday 5 July | Belconnen Arts Centre, Belconnen | belcoarts.com.au
Becoming Now
Through layered materials and delicate textures, this exhibition reflects on ageing as a process of growth and transformation. Drawing on plant life as a central metaphor, the works explore cycles of change, resilience and renewal. Combining charcoal drawings, stitched textiles and photographic elements, the pieces offer a quiet, contemplative experience. It’s an exhibition that invites viewers to pause and consider the richness of lived experience through both subtle and striking visual forms.
Until Sunday 5 July | Belconnen Arts Centre, Belconnen | belcoarts.com.au
Of Ravens and Rivers
This collaborative exhibition brings together two artists exploring shared themes of landscape, wildlife and connection to place. Through painting, drawing and sculpture, the works reflect on the relationship between natural environments and human experience. From interpretations of river systems to studies of the raven, each piece offers a layered perspective on coexistence and observation. It’s a considered and immersive exhibition that highlights the depth of long-term creative practice.
Until Sunday 5 July | Belconnen Arts Centre, Belconnen | belcoarts.com.au
Works: Steve Roper
Steve Roper’s Works brings together a collection of abstract drawings on paper, made using pencil, crayons, ink and watercolour. Line and colour have long been the foundation of Roper’s practice–he tends to draw with line rather than tone, producing works that are not necessarily representations of things but that may evoke subjects. For Roper, the appeal of abstract art is that it offers anyone the opportunity to experience it and interpret it on their own terms.
Until Sunday 5 July, 10 am–4 pm Tue–Sun | Belconnen Arts Centre, West Gallery, 118 Emu Bank, Belconnen | belcoarts.com.au
Group Exhibition: Iltja Ntjarra Art Centre and Jordan Benson
A remarkable cross-cultural dialogue opens at Canberra Glassworks in Kingston, bringing together Iltja Ntjarra Many Hands Art Centre artists Vanessa, Kathy, Dellina and Raelene Inkamala from Mparntwe (Alice Springs) alongside Melbourne-based artist Jordan Benson. The exhibition celebrates the enduring watercolour legacy of Albert Namatjira while placing it in conversation with Benson’s contemporary approach to traditional stained glass techniques. Together, they explore light, colour and transparency across two very different mediums – an expansion of their celebrated collaboration for the National Indigenous Art Triennial at the National Gallery of Australia. A genuinely special and culturally rich exhibition.
Until Friday 26 July | Canberra Glassworks, Kingston | canberraglassworks.com
Through the Window: Iltja Ntjarra Art Centre and Jordan Benson
A rich cross-cultural dialogue opens in the main gallery at Canberra Glassworks in Kingston, expanding on a celebrated collaboration first seen at the National Gallery of Australia’s National Indigenous Art Triennial. Artists Vanessa, Kathy, Dellina and Raelene Inkamala from Iltja Ntjarra Many Hands Art Centre in Mparntwe (Alice Springs) bring the enduring watercolour legacy of Albert Namatjira into conversation with Melbourne-based Jordan Benson’s contemporary approach to traditional stained glass techniques. Together they explore light, colour and transparency across two very different mediums, sharing skills and stories in an exhibition that honours culture while engaging boldly with the present.
Until Sunday 26 July | Canberra Glassworks, Kingston | canberraglassworks.com
Good Neighbour
Belconnen Arts Centre presents an offsite group exhibition at SLA Display Village and Innovation Precinct, Whitlam, curated by Brooke McEachern. A printmaker, glass blower, ceramist, mark maker and knifemaker come together celebrating local makers and quiet creative lives unfolding around us. Estelle Briedis, Hugo Curtis, Jacky Lo, Isobel Rayson and Dan Venables live and work in our neighbourhoods as familiar dog-walkers, corner café regulars or simply good neighbours. Through functional objects and considered craftsmanship, the exhibition presents works feeling personal and lived-with, as though gathered over time from friends and neighbours. The collaboration highlights the creative talent existing within everyday community spaces, making visible the artistic practice happening in homes and studios throughout Canberra’s suburbs.
Until Sunday, 13 July | SLA Display Village, Whitlam | belcoarts.com.au
Ngura Puḻka–Epic Country
One of the most ambitious exhibitions to open at the National Gallery of Australia this year, Ngura Puḻka–Epic Country showcases major works by senior First Nations artists and collectives from the APY Lands, Coober Pedy, and Adelaide. These large-scale paintings depict Country while celebrating the powerful Tjukurpa–the law and cultural stories–that lies within, rendered sometimes in explosions of colour, sometimes in muted, contemplative palettes. From the beginning of the APY art movement, these artists have embraced monumental works as the ultimate expression of cultural freedom. The result is an exhibition that is genuinely epic in both scale and significance.
Until Sunday, 23 August | National Gallery of Australia, Parkes | nga.gov.au
Trent Parke: The Christmas tree bucket
Trent Parke’s photographic series The Christmas tree bucket 2006–09 is a tender and darkly humorous portrayal of his extended family coming together to celebrate Christmas. The series showcases Parke’s distinctive and acclaimed visual style and his skilful use of light and colour, to transcendent effect.The Christmas tree bucket is a candid, unsettling and often absurd portrait of family life—centred on the chaos, rituals and contradictions of the suburban Australian Christmas. It is a fond, insider’s view—sharp but affectionate—and one that the participants, after initial bemusement, actively embraced.
Parke draws from the legacy of postwar American photography while retaining a distinctly personal visual language, using light and colour to transform the everyday. The resulting photographs are both intimate and theatrical, sometimes hilarious, sometimes poetic and haunting. The exhibition also features a small selection of work from Parke’s black-and-white series Minutes to midnight 2003‒04 and a number of his handmade concertina photobooks, which he sees as a central part of his practice.
Until Sunday 6 September | National Gallery, Parkes Place East, Parkes | nga.gov.au
2XX People-Powered Radio: Celebrating 50 Years | CMAG
For five decades, 2XX has carried the distinct voices, grassroots politics, and community stories of the capital over the airwaves. This winter, the Canberra Museum + Gallery (CMAG) is marking this massive milestone with a brand-new exhibition celebrating Canberra’s very first community radio station and the passionate people who shaped it. Tracing its evolution from its early beginnings as Radio ANU in 1976 to a modern broadcasting pillar, the exhibition brings together archival audio, vintage equipment, photographs, and vibrant, screen-printed posters made in collaboration with Megalo. Visitors can even step back in time inside a faithfully recreated 1970s and 1980s radio studio to listen to historic broadcast excerpts. It is a nostalgic, physical celebration of local music, multicultural programming, and the independent media movements that helped define modern Canberra.
Until Sunday 6 September | Canberra Museum + Gallery, Civic Square | cmag.com.au
Wangka Wakaṉutja: the story of the Papunya Literature Production Centre
Between 1979 and 1990, the Papunya Literature Production Centre produced hundreds of illustrated bilingual books–funny, moving, extraordinary documents of Pintupi-Luritja language and culture, guided by community Elders who were also pioneers of the Western Desert art movement. Many of those books have been held in the National Library’s collections ever since, and this landmark new exhibition finally brings them to life. Featuring stories, drawings, photographs, manuscripts, and oral histories drawn from multiple collections, it’s a profoundly significant celebration of Aboriginal literary culture, collective creativity, and the remarkable human effort to keep language alive across generations.
Until Sunday, 11 October | National Library of Australia, Parkes | library.gov.au/whats-on/exhibitions/wangka-wakanutja
Hop In! an immersive world of play
Canberra Museum and Gallery launches one of its most delightful exhibitions this April–and it’s designed for the youngest visitors. Hop In! turns the familiar family home inside out, shifting rooms in scale and perspective to invite children aged 3–12 to move, build, crawl, splash, and imagine in surprising new ways. Stretch out beneath a sky of clouds, create secret worlds under oversized furniture, or wander through reimagined kitchens and backyards where creativity has completely taken over. At the heart of the experience is Bunny Dearest, a gentle guiding companion created by artist Beci Orpin.
Until Sunday, 11 October | Canberra Museum and Gallery, London Circuit, Canberra | cmag.com.au
Illuminate: How Science Comes to Light
Questacon presents an interactive exhibition exploring the science of light through 13 hands-on exhibits. Visitors can experiment with light refraction, colour blending, shadow manipulation and reflection across multiple activity stations. The exhibition demonstrates how light travels, reflects and refracts, alongside displays of tools humans have developed to harness light. Activities include bending light, using sensors to create music, and working with lenses. The exhibition is designed for hands-on engagement with scientific concepts. Illuminate: How Science Comes to Light is a Museums Victoria Touring Exhibition running until November 2026.
Until Sunday, 22 November | Questacon–The National Science and Technology Centre, King Edward Terrace, Parkes | questacon.edu.au
Behind the Lines 2025: ‘Are We Rolling?’
Behind the Lines 2025: ‘Are We Rolling?’ celebrates the year’s best political cartoons.
Featuring established and emerging cartoonists from across Australia, this exhibition highlights the significant contribution they make to cultural and political debates through witty, insightful and often poignant satirical drawings.
This year our Behind the Lines theme is the cinema, acknowledging that, like some of our favourite movies, 2025 has been full of thrills and spills, romance and heartbreak, with plenty of unexpected plot twists. Australia’s cartoonists and illustrators have tackled many of the issues that made news, including the federal election, the cost of living, energy policy, interest rates, housing security, the economy, climate change and stories from overseas.
Until December 2026 | Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House | moadoph.gov.au
Gurindji Freedom Banners
A powerful new exhibition commemorating the pivotal 1966 Wave Hill Walk-off opens at the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House. Gurindji Freedom Banners: Mumkurla-nginyi-ma parrngalinyparla–From the darkness into the light unites all ten hand-painted banners for the first time in years, telling the story of when Gurindji and neighbouring peoples, led by Vincent Lingiari AM, walked off Wave Hill Station on 23 August 1966.
Their demands for fair working conditions and return of traditional lands sparked landmark change, leading to the first handback of Aboriginal land in 1975 and paving the way for the Aboriginal Land Rights Act 1976. The textile banners were created in 2000 by 35 Gurindji people, many walk-off participants, with one recently recreated after going missing.
Now showing until late 2026 | Museum of Australian Democracy, Old Parliament House | moadoph.gov.au
Know My Name: Kee, Jackson and Delaunay
Know My Name: Kee, Jackson and Delaunay showcases two of Australia’s leading fashion designers: Linda Jackson and Jenny Kee, in conversation with international, multidisciplinary artist Sonia Delaunay (1885–1979).
The iconic and vibrant early designs of Kee and Jackson from the 1970s and early 1980s were directly inspired by the dynamic legacy of Delaunay, who was a member of the School of Paris and co-founder of Orphism, an art movement noted for its use of intense colours and abstract, geometric forms. As well as working in traditional mediums such as painting and printmaking, Delaunay’s practice also included textile, fashion, and theatre design.
For Jackson and Kee, who were beginning their shared journey in creating clothes as works of art, the discovery of Delaunay was revolutionary. This powerful display feature a rarely-seen collection of Kee and Jackson’s garments from their archives and are shown with the National Gallery’s collection of Delaunay’s prints, drawings, textiles and costumes.
Showing now | National Gallery of Australia, Parkes Place East, Parkes | nga.gov.au
National Library of Australia Treasures Gallery
The National Library has millions of books, and the Treasures Gallery answers the frequently asked question, ‘Where are they’. They also collect other items. From maps and manuscripts to photographs and paintings, the Treasures Gallery is where you can find highlights from their vast physical and digital collections. Behind-the-scenes videos, pages from William Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice from the First Folio, a cedar bookcase carved by Dorothea Mackellar, photographs from the nation’s photo album, and a display of The Wiggles’ websites from 1997 to today from the Australian Web Archive are among the new additions.
Until December 2030 | National Library of Australia, Parkes | library.gov.au
Illustra: 50 Women for 50 Years
Illustra: 50 Women for 50 Years is a permanent portrait exhibition celebrating 50 years of women as residents at John XXIII College. Featuring fifty alumni, the exhibition pairs portraiture with personal reflections to capture the evolving experience of women across five decades. Photographed by ANU School of Art graduate Bronte Morel across Australia and internationally, each work is set in a location of personal significance. Together, the collection forms an intergenerational narrative of leadership, identity and community, recognising the enduring contribution of women to the College and beyond.
Permanent exhibition, open 9 am–5 pm daily | Front foyer, John XXIII College, 51 Daley Road, Australian National University, Canberra | johnxxiii.anu.edu.au
