Many of us joke that we’re addicted to our phones, but the joke stops being funny when you find yourself endlessly reaching for your phone without knowing why.
It starts small: a quick scroll when you wake up in the morning, checking social media while waiting for your daily latte, triaging emails while preparing dinner, eating dinner and cleaning up after dinner, followed by doomscrolling before bed. Before you know it, your screen time has taken over your day. And if this sounds familiar, you’re not alone.
It’s exactly what the Canberra-built app PivotIRL is trying to change.
Founded by sisters Tanja and Alannah Catalinac, PivotIRL was created to bridge the gap between intent and action, interrupting the habit of mindlessly scrolling by redirecting people’s energy into actionable offline activities.
Beginning with a moment of ‘self-awareness’, the idea of the app was born from Tanja’s own experience of screen-hopping late at night – jumping between two mobile phones, a laptop and the TV.
“I had finished eating, I picked up my phone to play a game whilst I watched my favourite show in the background,” she recalls.
“It wasn’t a loud moment. It was just this moment of interruption… I realised what I was doing… Why am I seeking two different kinds of stimulation when one’s generally plenty?”
Her sister was experiencing the same habits. So did almost everyone they spoke to and Tanja realised that the pattern was too widespread to dismiss as a quirk.
“The stories were the same, and the issue was becoming so known,” Tanja says.
“When I realised it was becoming a problem for other people, I thought, well, why don’t we just try something different and just get an app?”
It’s something Tanja and Alannah believe the modern world needs. But the benefits of the app extend far beyond lowered screen time.
Research shows that excessive exposure to digital screens can damage health and productivity, with poor sleep, mental health issues, reduced attention spans and poor dietary habits named as some of the negative impacts people experience from spending too much time on digital devices.
In fact, according to a March 2025 Comparitech report worldwide, the average person spends a total of six hours and 38 minutes looking at a screen each day, with three hours and 46 minutes spent on mobile devices alone. Of this time, the report found that two hours and 21 minutes was spent scrolling through social media channels.
It’s this time Tanja and Alannah are hoping to give back to people by taking the psychological tricks that keep us scrolling and reversing their direction.
“The overuse of devices is taking a profound toll on almost every aspect of our daily lives,” explains Tanja.
“PivotIRL is about balance and intention. We wanted to give people enough space to actually make a conscious choice about their screen time.”
From left to right: Dr. Mark Williams AOM, Professor Amber McKinley, Alannah Catalinac, Tanja Catalinac and Clinical and Forensic Psychologist Lia McInnes.
Using evidence-based insights to encourage people to step away from their screens and be more present in their lives, Tanja and Alannah created the app to use behaviour shifts, awareness triggers, and structured steps to help users take control back from algorithms.
PivotIRL works on behavioural science principles and has a database of over 12,000 activities – ranging from basic sensory techniques like breathing and humming to gardening – along with capped timing for social media usage and even mood check-ins.
Designed as a reset rather than a punishment, Tanja says it’s an approach that’s missing from the current wellness app industry.
“When you reach for a blocked app, we create a cognitive friction point, which creates a pause in that unconscious habit. In that space, we offer real-world suggestions instead,” she explains.
“A lot of existing apps focus heavily on guilt or restriction; they just show you how many hours you wasted or aggressively lock you out. We all know that when a human is told ‘no’ or that they can’t do something, they instinctively want to rebel and do it anyway – it’s like a type of self-sabotage. What was missing was the ‘why’ and the ‘what next’.”
The sisters also decided to build a dedicated research feature straight into the app, which gives users access to behavioural and neuroscience evidence. They say they want people to understand exactly how screens impact their brains and why they feel the way they do.
Instead of just telling people to put their phones down, the aim is to empower them with the knowledge to actually want to make that change.
“Unfortunately, I was diagnosed with PTSD, which ended my policing career. Because of that, I can see why simply blocking an app is not going to work,” explains Tanja.
“Stopping someone from going into a device that they are using as a coping mechanism is going to be potentially dangerous. My thought was we need to redirect the energy, the activity, and the behaviour to something that’s not harmful, that is creative, and that is going to be able to support that person whilst they start strengthening their own ability to resist the reliance on their phones.”
From scrolling to living
The irony of creating an app to lower screen time isn’t lost on the sisters. But they believe that to solve a digital habit, you must meet people exactly where the habit happens: on the device itself.
“If we want to intercept mindless scrolling and help people pivot back to the real world, the intervention has to take place right at the source of the distraction,” says Tanja.
“Our biggest hope is that PivotIRL helps people reclaim their time and mental space. We want to see people engaging more with the physical world again – whether that’s reading a real book, working on a hands-on project, or simply being fully present with their friends and family without a screen sitting in the middle.”
The app is now available to be downloaded on Apple and Android devices. Next, Tanja and Alannah plan on using PivotIRL to tackle the corporate world and education system.
With frameworks and software already in place, they’re looking at trialling the app in schools to help bring balance back to the lives of Australian children.
“Despite the 16-year minimum age [for social media], we need to be honestly realistic about the problem. I know many people who have had their kids sign up with a date of birth that was well and truly past 18, and this was years ago – they were 14, 15 back then,” explains Tanja.
“There are a massive number of kids that have fallen through that crack…it’s not about saying ‘No, you can’t do that’, it’s about teaching them how to use the phone.”
At the end of the day, Tanja and Alannah aren’t trying to tell people to give up technology. Instead, they want people to be more present in real life.
It might be as simple as picking up a book instead of your phone or calling a loved one instead of sending them Instagram reels. Whatever small habits PivotIRL helps people cultivate, the sisters just want people to start living again.
“We are in a loneliness epidemic where device use and overreliance are only perpetuating the issue. PivotIRL seeks to reconnect people with people, provide a feeling of belonging and give people back the control over their devices, not the other way around,” says Tanja.
“Changing our digital habits doesn’t have to be an all-or-nothing battle…This is not just an app – PivotIRL has the science backing of a world-renowned research professor, a neuroscientist and clinical and forensic psychologist. We are building a health and wellbeing intervention to strike at the heart of the problem and give people the opportunity to take a step back into reality and rediscover their real lives.”
For more information or to download the app, visit pivotirl.com.
Partners of Veterans Australia are hosting a much-needed space for military families to share experiences, build community, and reflect on the service done behind closed doors.
When we think of military service, the first thing we picture is the people who are deployed around Australia and overseas. However, we often overlook the personal sacrifices of service members, and the life they leave behind.
From the families waiting anxiously for contact to the children who have parents miss important milestones and the friends and community members who step in when times get tough, the day-to-day sacrifices made by military families are the backbone of Australia’s defence services – and the lack of recognition and support can feel isolating.
Taking place on Friday 16 October, you can expect a day of remembrance and celebration.
P.V.A director for New South Wales and event organiser Lucinda Kasey says, “I feel that volunteerism is important in the veteran community. I wanted to give back, but not just as a veteran myself.”
Lucinda is all too familiar with the struggles that military families carry. Growing up with her dad in deployment, marrying a service member, and then becoming a veteran herself, she wanted to give back to the community on a larger scale.
“I really looked up to my mum. I watched what she had to do for us children to keep us going whilst dad was deployed. She has done a lot and supported many people over the years, so I thought maybe it’s my turn to do that, “ she says
The day will kick off at 9 am with a national commemorative service and wreath-laying ceremony at the Australian War Memorial. Canberran families, schools, cadet units, sports clubs, community groups, non-profits, and workplaces are encouraged to attend.
It allows the community to stand together and reflect on the heaviness that comes with being a defence family.
Afterwards, there will be a National Symposium at 10 am with guest speakers talking on related topics such as navigating life as a defence partner and family, what services, support and resources are available to partners of veterans, and the politicians that influence decisions surrounding veterans and defence families.
The symposium will have a focus on partners of veterans, and the role that they play in the veteran community.
To wrap up the day, there will be a Gala Dinner at 7 pm in the ANZAC atrium, hosted by inaugural Patron of P.V.A, Lady Lynn Cosgrove. Taking place underneath the iconic F-111 aircraft, there will be fine dining, entertainment, guest speakers, and award presentations recognising individuals and organisations who have contributed to the veteran and defence family community. This is a wonderful opportunity to spend time with friends and community members, make new connections, network, and share experiences with people who get it.
Lucinda hopes that people will come along to Honouring The Hidden Service and leave with an understanding that service is never carried by one person alone, and that there are plenty of people out there who are experiencing the struggles of a military family.
“Hopefully we will open that conversation of what it’s like to be a service spouse, and that community interaction and support will follow. So if someone is living next door to a service family and the spouse is away, maybe they could ask if they need help with anything, like taking the trash out or mowing the lawn,” she says.
Local businesses and providers are encouraged to sponsor the event and participate in the community showcase. Email honouringthehiddenservice@gmail.com for enquiries.
THE ESSENTIALS
What: Honouring The Hidden Service When: Friday 16 October
Where: Australian War Memorial, Treloar Crescent, Campbell
Tickets + more information: eventbrite.com
Feature image courtesy of the Australian War Memorial.
While Canberra is full of great op shops, for the inexperienced thrifter it can be daunting. Unlike regular stores, there’s often little rhyme or reason to the racks, and finding a gem requires a little bit of hunting.
Never fear, there are some tips and tricks of the trade (as an enthusiastic op shopper with many successful finds under my belt) which make it easier to find a piece you love.
Look for colours and patterns that you like
Sometimes the hardest part of op shopping can be knowing where to begin. Going through every piece of clothing individually is exhausting, often with little pay-off. My first tip is to only flip open pieces in a colour or pattern that you like, rather than flipping through every piece. This helps prevent what I call ‘op shop burnout’ by increasing the likelihood of you finding something you will actually buy.
Look for quality fabrics
Another top tip when op shopping, particularly in winter, is to check the tag of the item you’re interested in. You’d be amazed by how many wool, cashmere, silk or mohair knits are hidden on the racks, waiting to be taken home for a fraction of the price you’d pay buying firsthand. These quality fabrics will also last longer and are a more sustainable option.
Go in with an open mind
One of the joys of op shopping is that it offers endless potential – you never know where you might find the perfect piece. So, my third tip is to check out sections you would otherwise avoid. That could be the men’s sections, or a few sizes above or below what you would normally wear. Because op shops contain every brand under the sun, different sizing and categorising by shop staff can mean there is great variation within each section. Go with an open mind and focus on your favourite colours and patterns rather than the number on the tag or section of the store.
Don’t be afraid to get something altered/mended/treated
My fourth tip for you is to see the potential in a piece. You need to be able to see yourself wearing it, of course, but items from the op shop often have a little wear and tear which is easily fixable. Rather than giving up on an item you love because it has some damage, use the money you save buying it second-hand to give it a little extra TLC. I recently found a GORGEOUS full-length pure leather maroon coat at Vinnies for twenty bucks. While it wasn’t in the best condition, considering how much buying one of these firsthand would cost, I put it in at a dry cleaner for some loving, and it came out looking brand new, still for a fraction of the cost of a new item.
Accessorise!
And finally… look in the accessories section! I feel this section often gets neglected (unless you’re hunting for something for a dress-up party) but some of the best items are hiding here! Think: a scarf that finishes off a winter outfit perfectly, sunglasses for your next holiday, or earrings for your next event.
From a girl who loves food, coffee, and a balanced lifestyle.
Many university degrees require students to complete an internship, often spending up to 100 hours within one location or office. Naturally, it’s only a matter of time before you start exploring your surroundings during lunch breaks (or in my case, to film content).
During my time here at HerCanberra, I have had a multitude of opportunities to explore around our Acton office. Here are some of my favourite places and things to do in and around Acton.
Dom’s Deli & Bar- Sandwich shop
Ever crave an authentic Italian-style deli sandwich but live in Canberra? Dom’s Deli & Bar has got you covered, offering some of the heartiest sandwiches perfect for the cold winter weather. Made with fresh ingredients and served on focaccia for sandwiches or sourdough for toasties, all that’s left to do is decide what to order.
If sandwiches aren’t your thing, and you prefer something more on the sweeter side, the pastry case will have your mouth watering. Whether you get a Butter Boy cookie or their homemade tiramisu, there truly is no bad choice.
Dom’s is also the perfect aesthetic cafe for studying when you need some physical motivation. With its warm walnut wood interiors, green leather seats, and old-school menus and signage, it is the new cool girl cafe.
Dom’s is the perfect lunch option or afternoon pick-me-up that every intern needs.
National Film & Sound Archive, 1 McCoy Circuit, Acton | nfsa.gov.au
Prioritise your walk as much as your work
Credit: @travelswithmichelle for Visit Canberra.
With the food in Acton being too good to pass up, daily walks and exercise are a must for a balanced day. Lake Burley Griffin’s walking tracks are perfect no matter whether it’s a 15-minute stroll to soak up some lunchtime sunshine or an after-work jog.
If you aren’t intrigued by a scenic walk around the lake and prefer a stroll with more purpose, Acton is in the heart of the city, making it the perfect location for walking from place to place. Whether you walk to No Name Lane for some food (I love the Mont Blanc from Harvest) or the Canberra Centre, the location is unmatched.
Caffeine is a necessity within all university students’ lives, especially interns who are trying to do it all. Constantly having coffee at a multitude of places makes most students coffee snobs – I know I definitely am. Here are my top places in Acton for quality coffee.
Espresso Room Nishi is serving up delicious specialty ONA coffee, with the smell of coffee grounds filling the cafe from 7 am until 4 pm (weekends excluded).
Moćan & Green Grout is yet another cafe in Acton that prides itself on producing quality coffee and a flavourful menu. Open seven days from 7 am, the natural wood and plants throughout the store are a complement to the cosy yet fresh food and coffee served.
And of course, I have to mention Lil Brew the grab-and-go cafe located right under the office. Dangerous? Very.
Espresso Room: 2 Phillip Law Building, Acton | Močan & Green Grout: Unit 1/19 Marcus Clarke Street, City | Lil Brew: 2/15 Edinburgh Avenue, City
Palace Electric Cinema – The crown jewel of Canberra cinemas
Cinemas have recently become the ultimate hangout spot, with the abundance of exceptional movies to reach our screens. Palace Electric Cinema in Acton happens to be an exclusive cinema that makes your movie experience that much better.
Arguably the best part is their homemade snacks. The choc tops are irresistibly good, featuring Connoisseur ice cream in various flavours, including specialty flavours for movie launches – I would argue they are the sole reason to go to Palace Cinema over anywhere else. Not to mention their olive oil and sea salt popcorn, which is the only acceptable savoury movie snack.
And which university student doesn’t like a way to save some money? The student discounts available at Palace are also a great reason to attend, with $13 tickets on Wednesdays and $15 for general student tickets.
Australia has one of the strongest healthcare systems in the world, but not everyone can access it. 2022 Young Australian of the Year Dr Daniel Naur aims to bridge the gap.
Since 2020, Street Side Medics has been delivering bulk-billed healthcare directly to people experiencing homelessness from mobile medical units across New South Wales and Victoria. Partnering with Vinnies Roadhouse, the clinics have expanded to the ACT to provide a safe and welcoming space along with hot meals and other services.
Founded by Dr Daniel Naur, Street Side Medics was born after a by-chance encounter in his final year of medical school.
Whilst studying in London, Daniel came across a man having a seizure outside a train station. After assisting him, he later found out that the man was part of a homeless community who didn’t have access to the medical treatment they needed.
Unable to forget what he saw, his passion for identifying gaps in healthcare and improving access for vulnerable communities turned into a wider mission to make healthcare access equal to every Australian, no matter their circumstance.
“People experiencing homelessness can face significant challenges getting to a GP, navigating appointments, and building trust with the healthcare system. Street Side Medics removes some of the practical hurdles by bringing free, GP-led care in an environment that is welcoming and non-judgemental,” says Daniel.
Through operating Street Side Medics, Daniel saw that people experiencing homelessness are often dealing with significant health, social, and financial challenges at the same time.
He hopes to challenge the assumption that homelessness is simply the result of poor choices, and that people experiencing homelessness are less deserving of healthcare.
“Homelessness is complex, and people can find themselves without stable housing for many reasons. Everyone deserves access to healthcare and to be treated with dignity, regardless of their housing situation,” he explains.
Street Side Medics goes beyond providing healthcare; through the clinics, people experiencing homelessness receive much-needed human connection from people who care about their wellbeing.
Street Side Medics operates every Thursday from 5 pm until 7 pm outside Vinnies Roadhouse at the Griffin Centre. By running the clinic at the same place and time every week, the volunteers can provide consistency, strengthen trust, and build relationships with the community.
“We’re seeing people re-engage with healthcare, access ongoing treatments and referrals, and build trust with doctors and the broader health system,” says Daniel
“For some, simply having a doctor who listens without judgement can be incredibly significant.”
General practice services provided by Street Side Medics include (but are not limited to): general health check-ups, chronic disease screening, acute infectious screening (including HIV, Hep C, Hep B, STI’s), immunisations, pathology services, diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions, screening tests and Medicare care plans, nutritional advice, minor surgical procedures and referrals to appropriate medical specialists.
Whilst Street Side Medics has made a significant difference in homeless communities, the demand continues to outweigh resources as the cost of living and homeless population rise.
“So many people need support, and we’re constantly balancing the need to do more with the resources available to us,” says Daniel.
“I’d actually love to see Street Side Medics become unnecessary because the mainstream healthcare system has evolved to properly meet the needs of people experiencing homelessness. Until then, we’ll continue bringing care to vulnerable people where they are and working alongside existing services to provide continuity of care.”
Daniel won the 2022 Young Australian of the Year award for his contributions to vulnerable communities, and has not slowed down since; in the last year, Street Side Medics has delivered over 600 clinics and provided more than 7,000 medical consultations to vulnerable Australians.
Whilst Daniel continues his work at Royal North Shore Hospital as a doctor, Street Side Medics is run by a team of wonderful GPs, nurses, allied health professionals, volunteers, and other workers.
The support of the public is fundamental for Street Side Medics to operate clinics. People are encouraged to volunteer, whether they have healthcare experience or not. Check streetsidemedics.com.au/volunteer for volunteer listings in your local area.
“I want Street Side Medics to help change the way we think about healthcare for people experiencing homelessness right across Australia,” says Daniel
“Every contribution makes a difference, and we’re grateful to everyone who gets behind our work”
From transforming healthcare and improving women’s safety to opening doors in construction, automotive and sport, 11 remarkable women and gender-diverse people have been named finalists in the 2026 ACT Women’s Awards.
In the lead-up to the 2026 ACT Women’s Awards ceremony on Thursday 3 September, we wanted to get to know each of the finalists a little better. Today we meet Rebecca Martin, recognised for leadership at the Alexander Maconochie Centre, fostering a culture of safety, dignity and respect while supporting women in custody.
Congratulations on being named a finalist in the 2026 ACT Women’s Awards! How did you feel when you found out?
It was a wonderful surprise and a very proud moment for me. Being recognised alongside so many inspiring women across the ACT is incredibly meaningful, and I’m excited to celebrate the achievements and contributions of women in our community.
In a nutshell, tell us about the work or initiative that led to your nomination.
As part of my role, I have taken the initiative to create a safe, supportive, and respectful environment within the women’s compound. I focus on building positive relationships with women in custody, helping them feel heard, valued, and supported while encouraging personal growth and positive change. I take a trauma-informed approach and recognise that every woman has different experiences and needs. I encourage women to build confidence, develop life skills, set personal goals, and take responsibility for their choices. I also work closely with staff and support services to assist women with their individual needs and help prepare them for a successful return to the community.
What achievement are you most proud of – and why?
Being nominated for this award, it shows that there is always someone paying attention to the good things you do, even when you don’t expect recognition. In a role where a lot of the work happens behind the scenes, it is meaningful to know that the effort, care, and commitment you put into supporting others is noticed and valued. It reminds me that the small things can make a big difference – taking the time to listen, showing compassion, encouraging someone when they are struggling, or simply being there when someone needs support. This nomination is a reminder that the way we treat people matters, and that positive actions can have a lasting impact.
Is there a woman, mentor or role model who has inspired your journey?
There is one particular female officer I have had the privilege of working alongside throughout her career and through different ranks. She has always been someone I looked up to and admired, not only for her knowledge and experience, but also for the way she carries herself and treats the people around her. Watching her lead with confidence, fairness, compassion, and professionalism inspired me to develop those same qualities within myself.
She showed me that being a strong leader is not just about having a position or rank, but about how you support others, how you handle difficult situations, and the example you set every day. I aspired to gain many of the traits she demonstrated, particularly her resilience, integrity, empathy, and ability to bring out the best in others. Her influence has played an important part in shaping the officer and leader I strive to be today. I hope she knows who she is.
What does being recognised as an ACT Women’s Awards finalist mean to you?
Being named a finalist provides valuable recognition to a role that is often misunderstood or underappreciated within the wider community. It is an opportunity to raise awareness of the importance of this work, challenge misconceptions, and highlight the meaningful impact it has on individuals, families, and the broader community.
What advice would you give to a young woman or gender-diverse person hoping to make a difference in their own community or industry?
My advice would be to believe in the value of your voice, your experiences, and the contribution you can make. Don’t be afraid to challenge the status quo, speak up for what you believe in, and take opportunities to lead, even when you may not feel completely ready.
Making a difference doesn’t always require a big platform. Small, consistent actions can create meaningful change within your community or industry. Surround yourself with people who support and encourage you, remain open to learning, and remember that your unique perspective is one of your greatest strengths.
With more than 500,000 people expected to explore Canberra during Floriade, there’s never been a better time to explore the city’s sandwich culture.
As the floral trail spills into the city, these cafés, delis and sandwich specialists offer plenty of reasons to linger a little longer – whether you’re visiting for the festival or simply looking to upgrade your weekday lunch.
From towering New York-style deli sandwiches and chef-driven creations to wholesome wraps, flaky pastries and kebabs loaded with flavour, here’s where to head when you’re craving something delicious between bread.
Blue Olive Café
Some places have earned institution status for a reason, and Blue Olive Café is one of them.
Tucked into the heritage Melbourne Building, this long-time city favourite has been feeding hungry locals since 1997 with chunky New York-style sandwiches that are made fresh to order. The menu is stacked with everything from classics like the Palermo (chicken schnitzel, Swiss cheese, mayo and lettuce) and the Rappa (poached chicken, bacon, avocado and Swiss cheese) to deli favourites like the Cuban and Reuben, alongside plenty of vegetarian options.
56 Alinga Street, City | blueolivecafe.com.au
Al’s Deli & Diner
If your ideal lunch looks like something straight out of a New York corner deli, Al’s is calling.
This Alinga Street favourite has quickly become a go-to for Canberrans chasing a seriously good sandwich. The all-day menu keeps things simple, focusing on a handful of signature creations made with house-baked bread and quality ingredients like the Beef & Pickle with corned beef, sauerkraut, sliced pickles and Al’s chilli mayo on rye sourdough, the Chicken Salad packed with chicken, lettuce, tomato, carrot, beetroot, alfalfa and mayo on white high top, or the classic Schnitty served on a soft milk bun with Zinga mayo.
Pair your pick with a side of chips and a Redbrick coffee, and you’ll understand why this place has built such a loyal lunchtime following.
Sometimes you’re craving something a little lighter without sacrificing flavour.
Since 2017, this No Name Lane favourite has been proving that healthy lunches don’t have to be boring. While the colourful signature salads have earned a loyal following, the seeded sourdough toasties deserve just as much attention. Choose from combinations like roasted chicken with pesto, paprika onion, cheddar and ranch tahini, or a vibrant vegetarian option with sweet potato, broccoli, hummus and sunflower pesto.
Prefer to build your own? Their wholesome wraps and custom salads make it easy to create a lunch that’s exactly what you’re craving.
Shop G9, No Name Lane, 40 Marcus Clarke Street, City |itsthegoods.com.au
Bite & Savor
Not every great lunch needs to come between two slices.
At Bite & Savor, the pastry cabinet has developed something of a cult following, particularly for its savoury Danish pastries and fluffy pork floss buns that strike the perfect balance between comfort food and grab-and-go convenience.
Ideal for mornings that roll into lunch (or those afternoons when you suddenly realise you’ve forgotten to eat), these flaky, satisfying creations are proof that bread comes in many delicious forms.
When the sandwich craving takes a detour towards the Middle East, Kebaba is always a safe bet.
Family-owned and inspired by generations of Turkish cooking, Kebaba has become a city favourite for its fresh, flavour-packed wraps. Choose from chicken, beef, lamb, mixed or falafel, layered with crisp salad and your pick of sauces – from classic garlic and hot chilli to tahini or hummus.
While the menu also stretches to charcoal-grilled meats, Turkish pides, gözleme and traditional dishes, it’s the freshly made kebab wraps that make this a go-to for an easy, satisfying lunch between meetings.
11 East Row and Shop 4, 88–96 Bunda Street, Canberra City | kebaba.com.au
Sandoochie
Few Canberra lunch spots inspire quite the same level of devotion as Sandoochie.
Hidden away in No Name Lane, Lucy Holm’s ever-changing menu has turned the humble sandwich into something people happily queue for. Built on exceptional Under Bakery tin loaf sourdough and packed with inventive seasonal fillings, every “dooch” feels thoughtfully put together, whether it’s crispy potatoes, poached chicken or spiced and roasted pumpkin, Sandoochie’s sandwiches are elevated with the perfect combination of crunch, herbs and butter.
If you’ve never had one, now’s the time to get off your cooch and grab a dooch.
Tucked away on London Circuit, Capital Kebab has built a loyal following with fresh, generously filled wraps that hit the spot every time. Choose from chicken, beef, lamb, mixed or falafel, all rolled with crisp salad and your favourite sauces, or branch out with a freshly made gözleme if you’re after something a little different.
Whether you’re grabbing lunch on the go or satisfying a late-afternoon craving, it’s a dependable city favourite for a quick, flavour-packed bite.
3/121 London Circuit, Canberra City
Grillin’
If a proper smashed burger is your idea of the perfect lunch, Grillin’ is well worth adding to your city rotation.
Located on London Circuit, Grillin’ keeps things simple, focusing on quality ingredients and big flavours. Sink your teeth into the classic Smashed Cheese with American cheese, pickles and house Grillin’ sauce, spice things up with the Nashville-inspired Classy Bird, or go all out with the OG Truffle Maker, stacked with double smashed beef patties, beef bacon, onion rings and truffle aioli.
Round out your meal with a side of crispy waffle fries and you’ve got a lunch that’s guaranteed to power you through the afternoon.
Never underestimate the appeal of building your lunch exactly the way you like it. With bread baked fresh daily and more combinations than you could poke a baguette at, this city staple lets you build lunch exactly the way you like it.
Stick with a signature favourite like the Philly-Style Three-Cheese Steak, Chicken & Bacon Ranch or Fiery Harissa Steak, or customise your own creation with your choice of fillings, salads, cheeses and sauces.
Whether you’re after a quick six-inch bite or a footlong to fuel the afternoon, it’s a reliable option that proves familiar doesn’t have to mean boring.
11/2 East Row, Bailey’s Corner, Canberra City | subway.com.au
McDonald’s Canberra City
Yes, we’re counting it. After all, a McChicken, Filet-O-Fish or classic cheeseburger technically ticks the “something delicious between bread” box – and sometimes that’s exactly the lunch you’re craving.
Macca’s menu has expanded well beyond burgers over the years, with crispy chicken wraps, McCrispy burgers and plenty of other handheld favourites joining the line-up. Add a side of fries and a frozen Coke, and you’ve got one of the city’s quickest comfort-food fixes.
Canberra’s food scene is absolutely blooming this September.
Ready to eat your way through the new season? Here is your essential guide to the biggest foodie news, drops, and dining updates happening this month.
OPENINGS, CLOSINGS AND MOVES
Caffè al Lago to bring its cult-favourite sandwiches to the Kingston Foreshore
That’s right – Caffè al Lagois opening a second location at Kingston Foreshore (taking over the spot recently vacated by Lil Mama’s), bringing its freshly baked schiacciata, focaccia panini and Italian-inspired fare to a new part of the city.
The Kingston venue will bring that same Caffè al Lago DNA to the Foreshore while introducing a few new touches. Read the story here.
Fresca arrives in the city
Speaking of sandwiches, the much-loved Queanbeyan sandwich shop Fresca has landed in Civic, bringing its signature house-baked schiacciata, Italian deli fillings, coffee, sweets and plenty of Nonna-approved hospitality to the city.
Inspired by owner Melinda Koteski’s 91-year-old Nonna Rosa and generations of family food traditions, the new venue features schiacciata named after family members, including the Carmela, Luigi and Rosa, alongside build-your-own options. There’s also Zest coffee, house-made sweets and Friday afternoon aperitivo on the horizon as the warmer weather arrives.
Find it at 27/40 Marcus Clarke Street, Civic, open Monday to Friday from 7 am to 2.30 pm.
Bar Nova reignites Kingston’s spark
The new bar and restaurant from Canberra hospitality wunderkind Kierain Bunton has finally arrived.
You can read all about it here – we promise that the menu will capture your immediate and lasting attention.
Craving 3 am HSPs? Quean Kebabs & Gyros serves late-night bites in Kingston
Quean Kebabs & Gyros is now open on Giles Street, serving kebabs, gyros, HSPs, gozleme or loaded fries until 3 am every Thursday, Friday and Saturday night.
With a menu packed full of authentic Greek and Turkish takeaway options – including meze platters for sharing and meat boxes – you can pop in to cure your cravings seven days a week.
OOSHMAN opens in Belconnen
Craving authentic Lebanese baked goods with a modern twist? Northsiders can now enjoy fresh and flavoursome pizzaz, wraps, sides and desserts with the opening of OOSHMAN in Belconnen.
Located on Rae Street, we recommend saving room for the PB&J calzone.
Zeus Street Greek is finally open in Woden
Those who have been watching the Zeus Street Greek hoarding at Westfield Woden in anticipation don’t have to wait any longer – the Greek takeaway spot is finally open.
Serving up the flavours you know and love, it’s open from 10 am to 10 pm, seven days a week.
Craving Korean? Civic has a new BBQ spot
Siz Korean BBQ can now be found on Moore Street in the city! There’s not a lot of information about this Korean BBQ restaurant, but it looks like it’s taken over the space that previously housed The Tasty Hill. It’s open for dinner Tuesday to Sunday.
Johnny Gio’s coming to Kingston
Pizza fave Johnny Gio’s is bringing its New York-Italian style to Kingston. Expect hand-stretched dough, generous, flavour-packed toppings, and a carefully curated selection of pasta dishes and desserts.
Wondering what’s going on in the space that was home to The Shed in Woden? Durk’s Café branding has been spotted. With locations across New South Wales, South Australia, Queensland and Victoria, this marks the first ACT location.
It looks like they’ll be serving all-day breakfast options along with sandwiches, burgers and other lunch options, along with coffee and smoothies!
FEASTS, FESTIVALS AND MORE: DELICIOUS FOODIE EXPERIENCES
A new fruit and veg market is coming to Dairy Road
Love visiting a farmers’ market on the weekend? Alpha Fresh have partnered with Capital Brewing to hold a mini market at Fyshwick’s Dairy Road.
Pints and Produce will take place on Sundays from 12 pm until 4 pm. As the name suggests, you can accompany your pints with the opportunity to shop fresh produce, face painting, and even a raffle. Find out more here.
There’s a new iced matcha and hojicha pop-up in town!
Keep an eye out for Keva Sips! Launching this September at the Southside Farmers Market, Keva Sips is serving up matcha from Satori Tea House and hojicha from Hojicha House.
Along with classic blends poured over milk, they’ll also be offering some fun twists, including strawberry, chocolate and black sesame hojicha, as well as strawberry, jasmine and black sesame matcha!
Keep an eye on their Instagram to see when they’ll be popping up.
Café MAMÉ farewells the all-day menu
One venue. Two completely different menus. Melba’s Café MAMÉ is shaking things up, splitting their breakfast and lunch into separate offerings. Why? Because they want to bring even more creative ideas to the café.
From September, you can grab breakfast during the week from 8 am – 11 am and lunch from 11.30 am – 2 pm. On the weekend, breakfast is available from 8 am – 11.30 am and you can order lunch from 11.30 am – 1.30 pm. Go along to try the new menus for yourself!
Smelly Buns and Bunny Beans Night Café are coming together for a sweet collab
Sweet treat lovers will want to save room on Saturday 5 September, because Smelly Buns and Bunny Beans Night Café are collaborating for one night only.
Serving up freshly baked cinnamon scrolls specially created to be enjoyed with your favourite matcha drink, you’ll be able to sink your teeth into original warm cinnamon scrolls along with yuzu cheesecake, crème brûlée, Tim Tam, white choco matcha and Biscoff.
With limited scrolls available, this is one sugar rush worth lining up for.
Three Mills and Capital Brewing is the collab we didn’t know we needed
Croissants and craft beer? Colour us intrigued. According to this Instagram post, two of our favourite Canberra businesses are coming together for a very interesting collaboration. While we don’t know the exact details, anything involving Three Mills and Capital Brewing is sure to be good.
A maritozzo party is a shindig we can get behind
Go hungry and leave happy is the motto of Sapori Lab’s maritozzo party. Taking place every second Saturday at Grazier Lane in Belconnen, they’ll be serving up four flavours of freshly made maritozzo in limited quantities.
With past deliciousness including pistachio, blueberry, sundried tomato and mortadella, you’ll want to go early because once they’re gone, these maritozzos will be gone for good.
You’re invited to the party. On Saturday 5 September, TERRA is celebrating their eighth birthday, with Sunga pulling the smoker out of retirement. The menu isn’t set yet, but we do know that there will be brisket, sausage, a whole hog, lamb ribs and more!
Taking place from 12 pm until 3 pm, they’ll be accepting walk-ins only. Find out more here.
This Gin Garden promises delicious springtime sips
The Underground Sprits Gin Garden is back for another year! One of our favourite ways to celebrate the start of spring, the Gin Garden is once again returning to Commonwealth Park, bringing a brand-new menu of seasonal botanical cocktails refreshing mocktails and Underground Spirits’ playful new Edible Cocktails.
Also hosting an Underground Spirits Cocktail High Tea – which includes a handcrafted cocktail served from a teapot and a selection of sweet and savoury delicacies created from L’épi Artisan Bakery – you can drop in for a drink from Saturday 12 September until Sunday 11 October.
This September, QT Canberra is holding a Pride & Prejudice-inspired QTea High Tea in partnership with the Canberra Theatre Centre and it sounds like an elegant affair.
Available on Saturdays from 11.30 am until 1 pm, you’ll enjoy savouries like luxe sandwiches and wild mushroom croquettes, as well as freshly baked scones piled high with rosewater cream and jam.
Add in your choice of one Space Kitchen Cake – alongside a flowing milk chocolate fountain for good measure – and you’re in for a grand time. Keep an eye out as the roaming cake trolley makes its rounds, laden with Space Kitchen’s Elizabeth Bennet strawberry mousse, and the Mr Darcy Roasted hazelnut praline.
The fro-yo craze continues in Canberra and now it’s spreading south. We recently spotted a sign in the window of Tuggeranong’s Rose N Brew, announcing the addition of a frozen yoghurt bar to the popular café.
While we don’t currently have the scoop on when it’ll be opening, we’ll let you know as soon as we do!
Celebrate spring with this chocolate and wine tasting experience
Because what better way to make the most of the warm weather? Murrumbateman Chocolate Co has partnered with Vineyard 1207 for a delicious chocolate and wine tasting experience.
For $30 per person, you’ll get to taste six varieties of chocolate alongside four tasting sized wine pours, plus a glass of choice to enjoy at your leisure. Taking place on Saturday 5 September, book your spot here.
Late night matcha isn’t a dream anymore
In good news for matcha lovers, Ujin Matcha House is extending their opening hours.
From Monday 14 September, you’ll be able to pop in until 10 pm every night for a hand-whisked matcha or Asian-inspired dessert. Matcha soft serve, anyone?
Coffee and beer is the combination you didn’t know you needed
Ambush Brewing has teamed up with Gang Gang Café to create a drink that’s sure to impress coffee and beer lovers alike: an American-style mocha milk stout. Brewed locally with fresh roasted coffee from the café, it’s best described as “coffee and vanilla” but in beer form.
According to this Instagram post, coffee and toast dominate the opening, with a soft and creamy mouthfeel classic to milk stouts. It finishes long and strong with a subtle caramel and a lovely dark chocolate-driven bitterness. The HC team isn’t sure how to feel about this one, but we’re interested to hear what people think!
The Horizontal Festival returns to Bowral this October
Road trip anyone? The Horizontal Festivalis back in the Southern Highlands for another year and this year’s program brings major culinary names, including Matt Moran.
Other highlights include local chefs Mark Holland of Horderns at Ardour Milton Park, Stephen Santucci of Moonacres Kitchen, Troy Crisante of Three Blue Ducks at Burradoo Park and Richard Robinson of Graze Catering. Check out the full program online to see what’s happening!
