More than flowers: how Marketplace Gungahlin is rethinking Mother’s Day

Posted on 27 April, 2026

Alfred Lord Tennyson once wrote, “If I had a single flower for every time I think about you, I could walk forever in my garden.” Perhaps that’s why flowers remain a Mother’s Day favourite.

But for those who avoid buying blooms because of their impermanence – is there anything sadder than a dying flower? – there’s another way to make Mother’s Day one to remember.

And because mothers deserve more than just one day, this one stretches across a fortnight.

Marketplace Gungahlin is helping you step up your gifting game with its “Mother’s Weeks” activations – complete with thoughtful keepsakes, low-stakes competition and small moments designed to make mum feel special. Because the best gifts aren’t always the most obvious – or the most expensive.

Take the Daisy Wall.

From Sunday 27 April, spend $30 or more in-centre and you can quite literally pick a flower for mum – but instead of a single stem, it’s a limited-edition leather bag charm, plucked straight from a wall of blooms.

Limited to 25 per day, a select number of daisies also feature bonus prizes hidden on the stem.

Of course, not everything is about getting in early.

For those who miss out – or simply feel like channelling their inner child – the Daisy Dash offers a second shot. The concept is simple: a ball pit, 25 seconds on the clock, and a single daisy-print ball standing between you and an instant prize.

The rewards range from vouchers to gift packs from the likes of Travel Associates Gungahlin (and other familiar names). Take mum along to watch for extra bonus points when you win her a prize.

Then there’s the ‘Mum & Me’ Challenge, which swaps speed for sentiment.

A quick five-question quiz designed to test how well you really know each other, it’s a great excuse to slow down and connect. The reward is a simple flower posy – which somehow feels more meaningful when it’s earned together.

A celebratory photo booth will be available throughout the event – the perfect way to capture a special keepsake with Mum. Be sure to snap a photo, post your favorites, and tag @marketplacegungahlin so they can share in the fun!

Running across two weekends in May (Saturday 2–Sunday 17), every eligible spend also doubles as an entry to win a $500 travel voucher from Travel Associates Gungahlin. Because no good deed should go unrewarded.

So forget the bouquet this Mother’s Day. Instead, think a wander through the shops, a quick game (or two), and a small, well-chosen token that says you were paying attention.

Images supplied.