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.

15 THINGS NOT TO MISS

Aveda Ayurvedic Wellbeing Masterclass with Sita Chan

7 Great Inventions of the Modern Industrial Age

Humanity has always sought to extend the boundaries of knowledge through innovation and discovery. Yet, just over a hundred years ago there was no space travel, bionic ear, cinema, telephone network… or atomic bomb. The innovation of the 20th century created opportunities and choices like never before. And it changed us.This performance is a provoking and entertaining journey through seven innovations that continue to shape humanity, the way we behave and the way we think.

Happening 26-29 July at Canberra Street Theatre, 15 Childers Street, Acton.

Find more information and purchase tickets here.

FREE PRE-SHOW EVENT – IN CONVERSATION: THE WORLD OF THE COMPOSER WITH SALLY GREENAWAY 

Enter the world of composer Sally Greenaway, as she talks with Artistic Director of The Street, Caroline Stacey. Greenaway was the inaugural recipient of the Merlyn Myer Fund & Melbourne Recital Centre Composing Women’s Commission, for which she wrote the 7 Great Inventions of the Modern Industrial Age.

In that same year the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra premiered her new orchestral work Worlds within Worlds which was written as part of the Cybec 21st Century Australian Composers program. In 2010 Greenaway graduated from the Royal College of Music, London, where she received the Lucy Anne Jones award.

She has more than 60 works published. Join The Street to hear about the artistic, collaborative process of creating 7 Great Inventions, and the world of one of Australia’s great modern woman composers.Bookings essential – RSVP here with your name, contact number and how many people will be attending, or call the Box Office on 62471223  between 10am-3pm, Monday to Friday.

Happening Thursday 28 July from 6.30pm at The Street Theatre.

THE 6500 SANTA SPEEDO SHUFFLE

This Sunday 30 July more than 150 Canberrans will strip to their speedos and run the central basin of Lake Burley Griffin in the 6500 Santa Speedo Shuffle.

The annual event, now in its sixth year, aims to raise $200,000 for Cystic Fibrosis ACT to help assist more than 100 people living with the genetic disorder in Canberra and surrounding region.

The day kicks off from 10am and finishes with a Christmas in July themed festival at the Southern Cross Yacht Club, an event the whole family can enjoy.

Happening Sunday 30 July from 10am at Lake Burley Griffin.

See the website for more information.

Defining Moments: Millennials panel discussion

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 until Saturday 29 July at the Street Theatre, 15 Childers Street.

For more information including showing times visit the website.

Truffle Festival Wine Dinner

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.

THE TRUFFLE HUNT AND LONG LUNCH

Overlooking the beautiful gardens at University House, indulge yourselves in a four-course truffle lunch matched with local Canberra and regional wines.

Start with a Truffle dog demonstration and hunt with a local grower amongst the oak trees in the beautiful gardens and a rich cauliflower and truffle soup. You will then move into the warmth, nestled amongst the open fire to be treated to a truffle infused long lunch.

Why not you make a weekend of it? Attendees are invited to enjoy a special accommodation package which includes one night’s stay at the University House hotel with buffet breakfast for just an additional $100 (for up to two people). With Canberra’s major attractions on your doorstep, you will then have plenty of time to explore Australia’s national treasures.

Happening Saturday 29 July 2017 from 1pm to 3.30pm at University House, Acton. Find information on bookings and more here.

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.

ARDBEG AT MOLLY’S

Join us for the next tasting event at Molly where we’ll be featuring another single malt from the Isle of Islay, Ardbeg.

Established in 1815, Ardbeg is revered by connoisseurs around the world as the peatiest, smokiest and most complex of all the Islay malts.
This tasting session will be hosted by Brand Ambassador for Moet Hennessy Australia, MJ van Vuuren Dip WSET, who will explain the intricacies of this unique whisky.

Tickets are $50 per person ($35pp for current Molly Cabinet Members) and you will receive a complimentary cocktail on arrival. On Thursday July 27 from 5pm for a 5:30pm start. Tickets are $50pp or $35 for Molly Cabinet Members.

Bookings are essential as places are limited – book now via http://mollyevents.eventbrite.com/.

MOLLY & ALL THAT JAZZ 

Our favourite soloist Robbie Mann is back in the basement for a night of jazz you wont want to miss. Born of Ragtime and nurtured within the debauchery of burlesque houses, brothels & bars – an evening of ‘Stride’ awaits.

Venture downstairs every Tuesday for live jazz from 7-10pm with your favourite tipple on the side.

Entry is free. On 25 July from 7pm at Molly’s, 35-37 London Circuit, Canberra.

MATCH DATING AT THE TREEHOUSE (AGES 34-44)

This night includes unlimited drinks, a round of tasty canapés and all your dates! Our experienced hosts ensure a great night.

Throughout the night, you will be tightly matched in real time to the most compatible guys or girls on a series of first 12-15 minute matched dates. Cityswoon.com drives the night on your smartphone.

After the dating is done, it’s time for everyone in the room to chat over a drink.  It will be a fantastic night and we hope you can make it.

Limited tickets available so get in fast. On 26 July from 7pm – 9:30pm at The Treehouse Bar, Sydney Building, 32 Northbourne Avenue. Tickets start at $89.00. Find out more here www.bit.ly/2ugt4uF

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.

$12 cover l $5 extra for 45 mins class. 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

Dendy Dames: Atomic Blonde

To book your place, see the Dendy website.

1984

April, 1984. 13:00. Comrade 6079, Winston Smith, thinks a thought, starts a diary, and falls in love. But Big Brother is always watching. Now with a brand new Australian cast, don’t miss 1984, one of the 20th century’s greatest and most chilling novels, given new life by some of British theatre’s fastest rising creative stars.

Set in a world where an invasive government keeps a malevolently watchful eye on its citizens, this radical and much-lauded staging explores surveillance, identity and why Orwell’s vision of the future is as relevant now as ever.

Produced by UK theatrical innovators Headlong along with Nottingham Playhouse and the Almeida Theatre, this production of George Orwell’s dystopian classic came roaring onto the stage in 2013 and since then it has become an international phenomenon. Seen by over a quarter of a million people worldwide, it has enjoyed three hugely successful West End seasons as well as an international tour including a sold-out season at the Melbourne Festival.

Showing Tuesday 25 July to Saturday 29 July 2017 from 7.30pm at Canberra Theatre Centre, Civic Square. Saturday matinee playing from 1.30pm. Tickets available from $45, Find more information here.

CANBERRA OBSCURA: METROPOLIS

Escape the weight of a long winter and immerse yourself in an art playground at The Ainslie Art Centre. With drinks to warm you and food to fill you, CANBERRA OBSCURA: METROPOLIS is a night of enthralling performance and emphatic beats, experimentation and the unexpected.

Canberra Obscura: Metropolis is an exploration of where the tipping point reverberates, a delicate magnetic push and pull. In times when we’re weighed down with abundance, and swept up in distortion, we’ll take you on an adventure and hold your hand as you approach the edge.

Happening Friday 28 July 2017 from 7pm-11pm at the Ainslie Arts Centre. Tickets available upon arrival. Free entry for children under 12. Find more information here.

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.

Scandinavian Film Festival

Presented by Palace Cinemas, the fourth Volvo Scandinavian Film Festival offers a spread of 20 films from the Nordic region. The exciting program ranges from Nordic noir thrillers to pitch black comedies with offerings from Sweden, Denmark, Finland, Iceland and Norway.

The festival will open with The Other Side of Hope, winner of the Silver Bear for Best Director 2017 at this year’s Berlinale. This special event screening includes an elderflower cocktail on arrival and an afterparty with Scandi tunes and smørrebrød!

Happening 18 July – 2 August at Palace Electric Cinema, 2 Phillip Law Street, NewActon Nishi.

For session times, tickets and other information, visit the website.

COLOMBIAN INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION 2017

Columbian Independance Day is here!

The Australia Colombia Friendship Association (ACFA), Casablanca in collaboration with the Colombian Embassy are honoured to bring the biggest Latin party of the year!

Live music, dance performances and traditional Columbian food.

Happening Saturday 29 July 2017 from 5pm at St John’s Anglican Church Canberra, Constitution Avenue. Tickets available upon entry. Free entry for children under 12. Find information on tickets and more here.

DIRTY GIRL ADVENTURE FILM TOUR CANBERRA

dirtygirlsadventurefilmtour.com.au showcases 90 minutes of the most inspirational, heart warming and entertaining films celebrating women in adventure from independent film makers around the globe.

See a unique selection of films of varying lengths and styles covering topics relevant to women in the outdoors who aren’t afraid to get dirty in their pursuit of adventure.

Join with like-minded women and build a community of supportive adventurous women. By celebrating the female adventurous spirit this tour hopes to make women in the outdoors more visible.

Happening Thursday 27 July 2017 from 8.30pm at National Film and Sound Archives, Acton. Find more information here.

CHIBCHA SOUND SYSTEM

Experience a night of music and culture in celebration of Colombian Independence – from psychedelic cumbia, Afro-Latin, Reggae and fusion and beyond with Chibcha Sound System.

Chibcha is an almost extinct language from Colombia spoken by the indigenous Muisca people. It’s also the producer alias name for Colombian born artist Oscar Jimenez. Playing a combination of original material and music from his tropical homeland, Oscar creates new musical genres using mixing and looping techniques together with traditional and electronic soundscapes.

Performing for the first time in Canberra as “Chibcha Sound System”, Oscar is most well known as the lead singer of ARIA Nominated band Watussi and Amaru Tribe. Born and raised in Colombia, he is an experienced performer of many styles whose music is on the vanguard, crafting a cross-cultural sound that mirrors his geographical journey.

Jimenez has shared the stage with many international artists such as Santana, Seun Kuti, and Manu Chao. From Caribbean and South American traditional songs to reggae, funk and Latin jazz with a modern tip, Oscar’s music references Buena Vista Social Club, Carlos Vives, Antonio Carlos Jobim, Gilberto Gil and many more.

Happening Friday 28 July 2017 from 9pm at The Phoenix Bar, 21 East RRow Canberra. Tickets available at the door. Find more information here.

MARKETS & FESTIVALS

Farm Gate Markets

Old Bus Depot Markets

Happening Sunday 31 July from 10am – 4pm at the Old Bus Depot Markets, 21 Wentworth Avenue, Kingston.

Find more information on the website.

ULTIMATE WOMEN’S WEEKEND EXPO CANBERRA

Escape the Chilly Weather join get amongst the Ultimate Women’s Weekend Expo at EPIC Canberra. Go for either one day – or two! You can expect the following:

• Over 90 FREE seminars and workshops – including nutrition, fitness, wellbeing, personal development, business development – and more!
• Free showbags for the first 2000 through the door!
• 80+ Exhibitors with something for you to do and try at each site!! Our Exhibitors are all small-medium sized businesses, and there are exhibitors from a variety of industries, including Craft, Mind Body Spirit, Homewares, Wellbeing, Fitness, Health and more!
• FREE PAMPERING in the Relaxation Zone!
• Incredible Guest Speakers including Jemimah Ashleigh (Business Owner & Australia’s No.1 Podcaster), Dianna Jacobsen (Business Mentor) and more to be announced!
• WIN some incredible prizes
• PLUS! 100% of the profits to your local domestic violence refuge!

Get along, not only have a fun and empowering time, but help really make a impact. Each visit to the show helps ONE woman in Australia gain the access to resources she needs. This can give her the strength to get her and perhaps her family, out of a really dangerous situation.

You are also invited to bring a card with a positive message, or perhaps a small gift or shoebox to pop under the ‘Tree of hope’. These will go directly to the shelter, to women in need. Get along and empower the woman in you.
Ticket costs: $12 for Adults, $10 students, seniors, and concession, $8 for Children over 12. Free entry for children under 12. Discounted tickets online.

On 29 – 30 July, 10am-5pm daily at EPIC Canberra – Coorong Pavillion. Visit the website for more information.

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

Taliath: Launch

SETTING UP A SMALL FARM

Whether you are looking to supplement your income or take the leap to full time farming, setting up a small farm of one’s own is an increasingly appealing lifestyle option. Join local permaculturist Bredbo Valley View Farm’s Martyn Noakes for an introduction into what to consider before diving in.

Topics will include:

• Selecting the right property
• What to consider before selecting what you farm – from production to market.
• Costs – the real price of farming.
• Fencing and the Boundary Fence Act
• LLS and extension services
• Applying for Grants
• Farm planning
• Education & courses

Tickets are $25 per person. On Tuesday 25 July 6-8pm, Canberra Environment Centre, cnr Lawson Crescent and Lennox Crossing, Acton Peninsula.

Visit the website for more information www.canberraenvironment.org

MAKING BEESWAX FOOD WRAPS

It’s time to stop clinging onto cling wrap!

Beeswax wraps are a safe and easy alternative to storing food in disposable plastic. As part of Plastic Free July, the Canberra Environment Centre’s Gaby Ho will demonstrate just how easy it is to make beeswax wraps at home in this hands-on workshop. Learn about other plastic-free alternatives to storing food and take home your own reusable beeswax wraps made during the workshop

Tickets are $35 per person. On Thursday 27 July 6-8pm, Canberra Environment Centre, cnr Lawson Crescent and Lennox Crossing, Acton Peninsula.

Visit the website for more information www.canberraenvironment.org

Stepping Forward: Combining social interaction with light exercise

SPORTS

Night Ski and Ride at Corin Forest

Night Ski & Ride at Corin Forest in the Tidbinbilla Mountain Ranges! Take a quick 45 minute drive to the ACT’s only ski field and enjoy the thrill of skiing beneath the stars and lights.

Get out into the winter air with a line-up of themed nights. Every night has a theme but the hill will still be open for all to use.

Thursday is Girls Night! Girls, take your girlfriend, your mum, your sister or your Nan along at no cost and get free coaching to improve your skills in a relaxed and chilled atmosphere.

Wednesday is Park Night, featuring a different rail or jump every week. Friday is Family Pizza Night with Corin’s famous wood-fired pizzas for only $10 each, and Saturday’s All-In is an open session for all.

The cafeteria will be open so you can warm up by the open fireplace, roast giant marshmallows and enjoy a wide selection of meals, including gourmet wood-fired pizzas.

Don’t miss out – book your Ski Area ticket now!

Happening 12 July – 2 September, Wednesdays to Saturdays from 5:30pm – 9:30pm at Corin Forest 1268 Corin Road, Paddys River. Tickets $30 for a four hour session.

Find more information on the website.

MEMBERS RACE DAY

Thoroughbred Park Canberra Racing Club, home of horse racing in the capital conducts 25 meetings a year, including the Melbourne Cup Race Day in November and the Black Opal Stakes in March.

Enjoy the famous carvery luncheon in the Black Opal Room or relax in the comfort of the Winning Post Bar on our non-feature days. Bookings are essential.

Use the facilities for your next function/conference. Race Day Hospitality packages are available to suit all budgets.

Happening Friday 28 July 2017 from 12pm to 4pm at Thoroughbred Park, Lyneham. Free entry. Find more information here.

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.

Showing until 27 July 2017 daily from 10am to 6pm at Thoroughbred Park Function and Convention Centre, Randwick Road. Free entry for spectators. Find more information here.

Live footy screenings at Ostani

KIDS

Night Ski and Ride at Corin Forest

Night Ski & Ride at Corin Forest in the Tidbinbilla Mountain Ranges! Take a quick 45 minute drive to the ACT’s only ski field and enjoy the thrill of skiing beneath the stars and lights.

Get out into the winter air with a line-up of themed nights. Every night has a theme but the hill will still be open for all to use.

Thursday is Girls Night! Girls, take your girlfriend, your mum, your sister or your Nan along at no cost and get free coaching to improve your skills in a relaxed and chilled atmosphere.

Wednesday is Park Night, featuring a different rail or jump every week. Friday is Family Pizza Night with Corin’s famous wood-fired pizzas for only $10 each, and Saturday’s All-In is an open session for all.

The cafeteria will be open so you can warm up by the open fireplace, roast giant marshmallows and enjoy a wide selection of meals, including gourmet wood-fired pizzas.

Don’t miss out – book your Ski Area ticket now!

Happening 12 July – 2 September, Wednesdays to Saturdays from 5.30pm – 9.30pm at Corin Forest 1268 Corin Road, Paddys River. Tickets $30 for a four hour session.

Find more information on the website.

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.

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 FIREFLY 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 until 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 18 October 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.

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.

Waving the Red Flag: Chinese Posters 1949 – 1976

What did it mean to be a citizen in the new People’s Republic of China? Waving the Red Flag is a mini exhibition of bright, colourful propaganda posters that shows us how the Chinese government communicated its officially sanctioned ideals for the lives of its people in this brave new world.

Happening daily 18 July 2017 – 2 July 2018 from 10am – 5pm at National Library of Australia, Parkes Place, Parkes.

For more information visit 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 until 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.

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 18 October from 9am-5pm at Questacon – The National Science and Technology Centre, King Edward Terrace, Parkes. Find more information here.

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.

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.

WESTERN RIDGE – STUDIO GLASS BY BRENDON SCOTT FRENCH

Brenden Scott French has a reputation as one of Australia’s most innovative and thought-provoking glass artists. His kiln-formed sculptures and wall pieces are carefully layered and assembled to develop pattern and form which he uses as vehicles to reflect his experiences.

Brenden’s recent residency in Western Ridge, NSW, explores both the external environment and his internal psychological narrative. Trained extensively in glass practice, Brenden completed a Bachelor of Visual Arts at the Sydney College of the Arts in 1997 and a Bachelor of Art with Honours at the Canberra School of Art in 2003. He has received numerous awards including the Ian Potter Cultural Trust Award and the Stephen Procter Fellowship.

Showing till Sunday 6 August 2017 from 10am to 5pm Tuesday-Friday at Beaver Galleries, Deakin. Weekends: 9am to 5pm. Free Entry. Find more information here.

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.

Showing 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.

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.