Australian Capital Territory

AUSTRALIAN CAPITAL TERRITORY

Canberra was designed by American architect Walter Burley Griffin and built largely after World War II. First impressions of the city are that it appears to be laid out very symmetrically, and that is green; there are 12 million trees to share amongst just over 300000 people!

Canberra has, over time, grown into a city of monuments, parks and green suburbs, with a layout quite different from Australia’s coastal cities. The nations only inland capital, its set against the backdrop of the Brindabella Mountains. Everywhere you go there are parks and tracts of bushland between the human elements of the city. And being the nation’s capital, Canberra houses a unique set of attractions underlining the story of the nation’s development.

The area around Canberra is a rural landscape combining gardens and rivers along with historic towns. Attractions include farm life, colonial buildings, local galleries, antique shops, orchards and wineries. And its all within easy reach of the city.

Canberra may be smaller than most Australian cities, but its role as national capital ensures a huge list of really fascinating things to do. National institutions abound. If you fancy a bit of art, take in an exhibition at the National Gallery of Australia or the National Portrait Gallery.

Questacon is the National Science and Technology Centre. This science museum is one of Canberra’s most popular attractions, presenting science and technology in an accessible, hand on way. Visitors can sit in a shuddering room and experience an earthquake, or try out a simulated roller coaster ride. There is also caged lightning on display and a scary six metre drop for those who want to really test their nerves.

Parliament House and the Eternal Flame

An exploration of Canberra’s cultural and historical attractions isn’t complete without a visit to Parliament House, on Capitol Hill overlooking the city. Aside from viewing politicians in action, visitors can admire the building’s distinctive architecture. The roof of Parliament House provides spectacular views of Canberra, and visitors are welcome to walk on the grass ramps covering the building, which is partly embedded in the hill.

Older battles are marked at the Australian War Memorial. Visitors can view fighter planes and military memorabilia, along with dioramas depicting the significant conflicts Australian have fought in. The Memorial is dedicated to remembering Australians at war, and reminding us all of the value of peace. Visitors can reflect by the Eternal Flame, or look for familiar names on the Roll of Honour, often dotted with scarlet poppies in remembrance.

Wine and West Row

If you need a drink after observing a sitting of Federal Parliament try one of Canberra’s dozens of wineries spread over four distinct areas – ACT, Hall, Lake George and Murrumbateman.

The region regularly wins major wine show awards for cool climate varieties, including chardonnay, Riesling, sauvignon blanc, shiraz, cabernet sauvignon, merlot and pinot noir. Winery tours are available, or you can devise your own wine trail.

Hiking

There are many areas of natural bushland to explore, in and around the city. For a start, there are sweeping views of the city to be had from the communications tower on Black Mountain. Tour operators offer trips to the Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve; along with more adventurous outdoor fun, including 4WD tours through the spectacular surrounds of the ACT and to the Snowy Mountains. There are also tours to Brindabella’s, Namadgi National Park and other bush locations.

Be a good Sport

Had enough of culture? No problem Take a tour of the Australian Institute of Sport, where Australia’s elite athletes train. The tour includes a visit to Sportex, and interactive exhibition where you can measure up to an athlete or test your skills as a rower, golfer or wheelchair basketball. Sportex also includes memorabilia such as Don Bradman’s cricket bat, Cathy Freeman’s running shoes and Michael Klims medals from the 2000 Olympic Games.

But if you would rather get out and do something sporty yourself, try an round of golf on one of Canberra’s man golf courses, go horse riding along trails near the city, or enjoy sailing, rowing or sail boarding on the lake.

Zoo and Aquarium combined

If you have ever wanted to encounter sharks, otters, bears and big cats on the same day, pay a visit to the National Zoo and Aquarium at Yarralumla. It is Australia’s only combined zoo and aquarium, housing an impressive array of sharks, tropical fish, frogs, eels and turtles, along with diverse animals. Snakes can also be seen at the Australian Reptile Centre, and more avian life at The Bird Walk; both are located at Cold Creek Village in Nicholls.