Parliament House In Bloom This Spring
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Australian Parliament House’s Spring Program offers a unique chance to go behind its soaring white walls.
Every time I visit Australian Parliament House I feel the same frisson of excitement as I wander its halls—there’s always some sense I’m getting a secret insight into our country’s ‘most powerful building’.
But even for those who know their way around pretty well, there are some areas of Parliament House that are usually off limits to visitors, and that includes its 17 courtyards.
But this Spring, everyone has a chance to go behind the soaring white walls, in an exciting program of events which includes: a day of family fun at Open Day, spring tea in the courtyards, special 30th birthday exhibitions, and popular garden tours.
MEET THE GARDENER TOURS
A few years ago, I was lucky enough to be given a tour of the private courtyards and gardens by those who know them best—the Parliament House gardeners. And during Spring, that opportunity is open to you, too.
Now, let’s get this out of the way. I have what’s commonly known as a ‘brown thumb’. Cannot keep a plant alive…even cacti wither under my care. But these tours are not just for avid gardeners—they’re for everyone.
Each tour takes in facts about the design of the grounds, the size, through to more detailed information on plantings, irrigation (if you’re into systems, this one is incredibly impressive!), and some inside stories from the Gardening Team. They’re a rare chance to get a glimpse at some very private—and infinitely fascinating—spaces.
So, whether you’re just keen to have a sneaky peek at the secret spaces of Parliament House, or want to get some tips from the expert gardeners that you can use in your own grounds, the tours should be on your Spring agenda.
There are four available Meet The Gardener Tours—10 am and 1 pm on Sunday 23 September and Sunday 14 October—and each ends with a lovely morning or afternoon tea experience at Queen’s Terrace Café.
The cost of this tour is $60 (plus $4.95 fee). Bookings via canberraticketing.com.au
WHAT ELSE IS ON AT PARLIAMENT HOUSE DURING SPRING
SPRING TEA IN THE COURTYARDS
The blossoming courtyard gardens are some of Parliament House’s most gorgeous spots, and the perfect place for high tea! Enjoy a glass of bubbly while you experience sweet and savoury delicacies created by the Executive Chef. Quail egg benedict, black truffle; Pecan crumble scones served with homemade jam and cream; or Peanut butter Kingston, anyone?
There are just two sessions available—11.30 am–1.30 pm on Saturday 22 and Sunday 23 September— so best get your skates on to avoid missing out!
Tickets are $75 (transaction fees apply) and are available from canberraticketing.com.au.
SPRING COURTYARD TOURS
Take a winding guided tour of the Parliament House private gardens in springtime. Listen to the bubbling water features, see glorious blossoms, and enjoy a general overview of the workings of Parliament from an experienced guide.
Tours run Wednesday to Sunday from 26 September to 14 October.
Tickets are $25 and Concessions/Child $20 (transaction fees apply) and are available from canberraticketing.com.au.
EXHIBITIONS
Visitors to Parliament House during spring can enjoy three fascinating exhibitions:
FAÇADE
The distinctive façade of Parliament House has become synonymous with democracy, government and the city of Canberra—this exhibition celebrates the unique architecture of this iconic institution.
Simon Fieldhouse (born 1956) Parliament House—Canberra 4 (detail), 2015, Parliament House Art Collection, Canberra, ACT
Showing until Sunday 21 October in the exhibition area of level 1.
Free (no booking required)
30 x 30
See Parliament House in a new light with 30 images from the Parliament House Art Collection by 30 of Australia’s best artists and photographers including David Moore, Max Dupain, Richard Woldendorp, Fiona Hall, John Gollings and Anne Zahalka.
Showing from Friday 14 September to Friday 26 October in the Great Hall.
Free (no booking required)
CELEBRATING MAGNA CARTA
Magna Carta is a foundational document of modern democracy, and Parliament House holds one of only two copies that exist outside of the UK. Join the Parliament House Art Collection and Exhibitions Director and special guests for this rare and intimate viewing, and hear stories of recent restoration work.
6 pm Wednesday 17 October in the Main Committee Room.
Free but bookings are essential—email RSVP@aph.gov.au or call 02 6277 5513.
SCHOOL HOLIDAY FILM SCREENINGS
These school holidays celebrate the building of the People’s House with everyone’s favourite building blocks—kids can enjoy LEGO movies free on the big screen!
The LEGO Movie screens at 10 am on Tuesday 2 October and 2 pm on Tuesday 9 October.
The LEGO Batman Movie screens at 2 pm on Tuesday 2 October and 10 am on Tuesday 9 October.
Films screen in the Theatre on level 1. Free (no booking required).
2018 AUSTRALIAN PARLIAMENT HOUSE OPEN DAY
Can you believe it’s Parliament House’s thirtieth birthday!? I’m showing my age, but I still remember it being built. This milestone is being celebrated with a special Open Day, and—as with any party—there’s a lot going on!
You can tour parts of Parliament House not normally accessible to the public, see the House of Representatives and Senate Chambers from ground level, peek into the Cabinet Room and the Prime Minister’s office. Snap your way around the Selfie Trail and be among the first to see the brand-new LEGO Parliament House!
Meet parliamentary staff and learn about the activities that keep the house running, be entertained, enjoy musical performances and attend the Speaker’s Lecture by journalist Paul Kelly. There will be activities for young and old alike during this family fun day out.
And if you’re into starting your day the healthy way, Yoga Australia will be running an outdoor yoga session on lawns in front of Parliament House from 8 am. Could there be a more iconic location for your morning workout?
The Open Day runs from 9 am to 5 pm, Saturday 6 October. Yoga kicks off a little earlier, at 8 am!
Free (no booking required).
For the latest updates on Parliament House Open Day go to the Facebook event.
Want to know more about the 2018 Spring Program at Australian Parliament House? Visit aph.gov.au/spring.
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