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MAC Canberra - Historical Background
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The word Canberra comes from the name given to an early European settler's property—"Canberry." That name, in turn derives from the Aboriginal word, "Kamberra," meaning, "meeting place"—apt for a city that became the nation's capital as a solution to the dispute between rivals Melbourne and Sydney.

For more than 21,000 years, this region was home to the Ngunnawal Aboriginal people. As part of their nomadic migrations, the Ngunnawal regularly visited the area for corroborees and feasts. Archaeological evidence of Aboriginal occupation can be found at Birrigai Rock shelter in Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve, at the Tuggeranong Creek Axe Grinding Grooves, as rock paintings in Namadgi National Park and at other sites throughout what is now known as the Australian Capital Territory.

Capital Venture

The European settlement, beginning in the 1820s, disrupted the thriving Aboriginal life-style. Although much of their culture was lost, many indigenous people continued to live in the area, taking work on sheep stations.

Following the federation of Australia in 1901, several years were spent searching for a suitable site for the country's capital. Finally, in 1908, Federal Parliament declared that the location of the future city would be in the Yass/Canberra district. The New South Wales Government Surveyor at the time, Charles Scrivener, selected the old "Canberry" property due to its commanding position within an amphitheatre of hills (the city centre of modern Canberra now lies over the middle of that former property). Scrivener's vision was for the flood plain of the Molonglo River to form an ornamental lake in the centre of the city. His proposal was ratified in 1909 and on 1 January 1911, the Australian Capital Territory came into existence. At this stage there were only 1,714 people living in the Territory, outnumbered slightly by horses and greatly by the 224,764 sheep--not to mention the kangaroos!

The government launched an international competition to design the city of Canberra on 24 May 1911 and, from some 137 entries, Walter Burley Griffin's design won first prize. On 12 March 1913, the wife of Australia's Governor General, Lady Denman, officially named Canberra as the capital of Australia and laid three foundation stones in place at the base of the commencement column. These stones can still be seen buried in the lawn of Parliament House.

The Griffin has Planned It

Later in 1913, Griffin came out to Australia to implement his design. His plan placed Capital Hill at the centre of Canberra with wide, tree-lined avenues radiating from it—each named after an Australian State capital and each pointing in the direction of that city. Griffin's plan related the structure and geometry of the city to the natural terrain of the site, and used three axes to form a great triangle. The land axis linked Mount Ainslie to Capital Hill. The water axis ran from Black Mountain through to what is now Lake Burley Griffin (the lake formed by damming the Molonglo River). The third axis—the Municipal axis (now Constitution Avenue)—ran from City Hill to Russell Hill.

But delays in constructing the capital ensued due to lack of funds and the outbreak of the First World War. It was not until 1926 that Federal Parliament met in Canberra, and then in a "provisional" parliament building, (Old Parliament House), built on a flatter area than the one appearing on Griffin's plan. This building officially opened on 9 May 1927. At this stage the infant capital consisted of two government office buildings, a Prime Minister's residence, the Lodge, several hotels and guest houses, the Royal Military College, a hospital, a dam, a powerhouse, a brickworks, and a construction camp for workers. A railway connection linked Canberra to Queanbeyan and thence to Sydney. By this time a nucleus of inner suburbs had formed—Kingston, Yarralumla, Ainslie, Reid and Forrest—and some public servants had moved to Canberra from Melbourne.

When the Great Depression hit, construction of the nation's capital halted again. With a population of 7,000 people, Canberra went into hibernation. Furthermore, work had scarcely begun on the Australian War Memorial and the National Library when the Second World War halted progress. It was not until after the war that development of the city really began.

Boom(erang) Town

In 1954, a housing shortage hit Canberra (now with a population of 39,000), so the government established a Senate Select Committee to inquire into the development of the city. This committee recommended a single well-funded organisation to implement construction and development. The Griffin Plan was reviewed and Lake Burley Griffin inaugurated in 1964. Further developments included the construction of bridges and avenues radiating from Capital Hill, which realised the concept of the "Parliamentary Triangle." The establishment of new town centres to the north and south west of Griffin's Canberra commenced, with residents moving into the first new town, Woden, in 1964. Belconnen, to the north, followed in 1967 and Tuggeranong, to the south, in 1973.

More public servants moved from Sydney and Melbourne. A large defence office complex was constructed at Russell Hill, on one of the corners of the Parliamentary Triangle. Completion of the Royal Australian Mint followed and other government buildings were built in town centres to generate retail development and services. The establishment of new embassies reflected Australia's growth and its international links. The National Library, the High Court of Australia, the Australian National Gallery and the National Science and Technology Centre grew up within the Parliamentary Triangle. And finally, following another international competition and ten years of construction, a new Parliament House opened on 9 May 1988—to mark the bicentenary of European settlement.

As the seat of federal government and home to diplomatic embassies of over 60 countries, Canberra is a diverse and cultured city with all the amenities of a modern city but none of the disadvantages. It has taken a long time but the vision of Walter Burley Griffin has now been realised.







Copyright 1999-2005 Wcities, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Contact Wcities

Australian War Memorial


Memories of War
Anzac Parade
(Campbell)
Canberra, ACT 2601
Australia
+61 2 6243 4211
http://www.awm.gov.au
The Australian War Memorial is a must see for everyone, despite the sobering subject matter. The exhibitions are well assembled, placing the emphasis on personal stories, memorabilia and education. The Hall of Memory and the Pool of Reflection offer time to commemorate the efforts of countless Australians lost in war. The facilities offer an extensive research centre and award winning exhibitions. The Memorial is a commanding fortress for history, and a constant reminder of the effects of war.Admission: Free.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Australian War Memorial photo by Nicholas Brown
Photo: Nicholas Brown
Australian War Memorial photo by Peter
Photo: Peter
Australian War Memorial photo by Bert Berg
Photo: Bert Berg
Australian War Memorial photo by Anya Sauer
Photo: Anya Sauer
Australian War Memorial photo by Bert Berg
Photo: Bert Berg
Australian War Memorial photo by Bill Strong
Photo: Bill Strong
Australian War Memorial photo by Kim Grant
Photo: Kim Grant
Australian War Memorial photo by Pepijn Schmitz
Photo: Pepijn Schmitz
Australian War Memorial photo by Richard Scott Souder
Photo: Richard Scott Souder
Australian War Memorial photo by Bill Strong
Photo: Bill Strong
Australian War Memorial photo by Pepijn Schmitz
Photo: Pepijn Schmitz
Australian War Memorial photo by David Francis
Photo: David Francis
Australian War Memorial photo by Berserk Warrior
Photo: Berserk Warrior
Australian War Memorial photo by Kim Grant
Photo: Kim Grant
Australian War Memorial photo by Sean
Photo: Sean
Australian War Memorial photo by Blaine Grady
Photo: Blaine Grady
Australian War Memorial photo by Richard Taylor
Photo: Richard Taylor
Australian War Memorial photo by Lisa Miller
Photo: Lisa Miller
Australian War Memorial photo by Jon Wallace
Photo: Jon Wallace
Australian War Memorial photo by Markus Mitterauer
Photo: Markus Mitterauer
Australian War Memorial photo by Craig Hall
Photo: Craig Hall
Australian War Memorial photo by Jim McFerran
Photo: Jim McFerran
Australian War Memorial photo by siansparkles
Photo: siansparkles
Australian War Memorial photo by Ben Fittler
Photo: Ben Fittler
Australian War Memorial photo by boatswainm8
Photo: boatswainm8
Australian War Memorial photo by eatrevathan
Photo: eatrevathan
Australian War Memorial photo by digitalreflections
Photo: digitalreflections
Australian War Memorial photo by Thalia Timbrell
Photo: Thalia Timbrell
Australian War Memorial photo by Rion van Zyl Smit
Photo: Rion van Zyl Smit
Australian War Memorial photo by karenallingham
Photo: karenallingham
Australian War Memorial photo by Mark Hanson
Photo: Mark Hanson
Australian War Memorial photo by Warren Russell
Photo: Warren Russell
Australian War Memorial photo by Robert Stelter
Photo: Robert Stelter
Australian War Memorial photo by Emma Power
Photo: Emma Power
Australian War Memorial photo by Firman Witoelar
Photo: Firman Witoelar
Australian War Memorial photo by Gaby Bruning
Photo: Gaby Bruning
Australian War Memorial photo by olivierbrunet2005
Photo: olivierbrunet2005
Australian War Memorial photo by mc24601
Photo: mc24601
Australian War Memorial photo by Emily Muir
Photo: Emily Muir
Australian War Memorial photo by aussiegall
Photo: aussiegall
 

 
Belconnen


Canberra
Australia
Originally large shopping malls for the residential regions, these districts have, in recent years, built a reputation for their nightlife. Cafes, bars and restaurants are settling in beside popular live music venues, so local residents no longer have to venture into the city for their entertainment. The centre of each district offers a different type of live entertainment and choice of restaurants. Belconnen plays host to Turkish and Indian restaurants, as well as taverns with Australian bands.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Belconnen photo by vighi
Photo: vighi
Belconnen photo by nat mcmillan
Photo: nat mcmillan
Belconnen photo by Jonathon Evans
Photo: Jonathon Evans
 

 
Black Mountain Nature Park


The Green City's Landmark
Acton
Canberra, ACT 2601
Australia
+61 2 6207 2113
The largest of Canberra's 27 Nature Parks, Black Mountain is home to Black Mountain Tower, a city landmark, and the Australian National Botanic Gardens. For those interested in a true bush walk, there are several different access points including the top of Black Mountain drive. If your goal is simply to wander, the Aranda Bushlands is a small section of the park, which is enjoyable for walkers, cyclists and horse enthusiasts. If physical exertion is not the order of the day, drive to the tower and enjoy the view. The entire city is laid out before you.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Black Mountain Nature Park photo by kabeldag
Photo: kabeldag
Black Mountain Nature Park photo by Mick Radojkovic
Photo: Mick Radojkovic
Black Mountain Nature Park photo by Adrian Liston
Photo: Adrian Liston
Black Mountain Nature Park photo by scott richardson
Photo: scott richardson
Black Mountain Nature Park photo by Ben Yau
Photo: Ben Yau
Black Mountain Nature Park photo by Roby Adams
Photo: Roby Adams
Black Mountain Nature Park photo by Andrew Churches
Photo: Andrew Churches
Black Mountain Nature Park photo by Peter Borenstein
Photo: Peter Borenstein
Black Mountain Nature Park photo by Ambra Perusini
Photo: Ambra Perusini
Black Mountain Nature Park photo by Simon Konz
Photo: Simon Konz
Black Mountain Nature Park photo by Charles Santori
Photo: Charles Santori
Black Mountain Nature Park photo by Robert Howson
Photo: Robert Howson
Black Mountain Nature Park photo by Casey Glass
Photo: Casey Glass
Black Mountain Nature Park photo by Steev Selby
Photo: Steev Selby
Black Mountain Nature Park photo by Tim Hughes
Photo: Tim Hughes
Black Mountain Nature Park photo by wombalano
Photo: wombalano
Black Mountain Nature Park photo by Brian Phelps
Photo: Brian Phelps
Black Mountain Nature Park photo by KidNikon
Photo: KidNikon
Black Mountain Nature Park photo by Gilbert Jadraque
Photo: Gilbert Jadraque
 

 
High Court of Australia


The highest court in the land
Parkes Place
Parkes
Canberra, ACT 2600
Australia
+61 2 6270 6811
http://www.hcourt.gov.au
This fine architectural example sits among the capital's elite on Parkes Place, along the shore of Lake Burley Griffin. The elongated windows of the seven-story public hall reflect the sky above while the series of waterfalls along the main entry suggest that the visitor consider the role of law and order as a natural phenomenon--like the elements that surround us. Australia's judicial system can be viewed here first hand. A video room, extensive murals and the three courtrooms all help convey the important decisions made within these walls.

Review © 2007, Wcities
High Court of Australia photo by Alan Isherwood
Photo: Alan Isherwood
High Court of Australia photo by Daniel Boulet
Photo: Daniel Boulet
High Court of Australia photo by Daniel Boulet
Photo: Daniel Boulet
High Court of Australia photo by Wilson Afonso
Photo: Wilson Afonso
High Court of Australia photo by Alan Isherwood
Photo: Alan Isherwood
High Court of Australia photo by Nicholas Brown
Photo: Nicholas Brown
High Court of Australia photo by Leanne McCauley
Photo: Leanne McCauley
High Court of Australia photo by Leanne McCauley
Photo: Leanne McCauley
High Court of Australia photo by Jason Ngam
Photo: Jason Ngam
High Court of Australia photo by Anne and Raymond Yu
Photo: Anne and Raymond Yu
High Court of Australia photo by K. Hollis
Photo: K. Hollis
High Court of Australia photo by mariola!
Photo: mariola!
High Court of Australia photo by downundi
Photo: downundi
High Court of Australia photo by Peter
Photo: Peter
High Court of Australia photo by rinderpeste1
Photo: rinderpeste1
 

 
Lake Burley Griffin


The Heart of Canberra
Close to Central Canberra
Canberra, ACT
Australia
+61 2 6205 0044
This wonderful lake is the brainchild of Walter Burley Griffin, the architect of Canberra City. Scrivener Dam, at the west end of the lake, slows the Molonglo River and creates the many basins of the lakes. Many diverse habitats and ecosystems, natural and man-made, surround this body of water, which is the focus of such leisure sports as fishing, swimming, cycling, walking, jogging and rowing. There are picnic areas at Yarramundi Reach, Weston and Commonwealth Park as well as Black Mountain Peninsula. Lennox Gardens and the Canberra Yacht Club can be found at Lotus Bay.

Park at Commonwealth or Weston Park for easy access.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Lake Burley Griffin photo by D. Austin Horowitz
Photo: D. Austin Horowitz
Lake Burley Griffin photo by Abdul R
Photo: Abdul R
Lake Burley Griffin photo by glendana
Photo: glendana
Lake Burley Griffin photo by Maria Ismawi
Photo: Maria Ismawi
Lake Burley Griffin photo by Glenn Thomas
Photo: Glenn Thomas
Lake Burley Griffin photo by Kenny Easwaran
Photo: Kenny Easwaran
Lake Burley Griffin photo by Darren Weinert
Photo: Darren Weinert
Lake Burley Griffin photo by John Baltaks
Photo: John Baltaks
Lake Burley Griffin photo by Geoff Galwey
Photo: Geoff Galwey
Lake Burley Griffin photo by Valerie Wilson
Photo: Valerie Wilson
Lake Burley Griffin photo by Alan Swinbourn
Photo: Alan Swinbourn
Lake Burley Griffin photo by Lucy Harding
Photo: Lucy Harding
Lake Burley Griffin photo by Zak Sherwood
Photo: Zak Sherwood
Lake Burley Griffin photo by Iain Cole
Photo: Iain Cole
Lake Burley Griffin photo by Rachel
Photo: Rachel
Lake Burley Griffin photo by Simon Gosney
Photo: Simon Gosney
Lake Burley Griffin photo by Jochen Garcke
Photo: Jochen Garcke
Lake Burley Griffin photo by Viara
Photo: Viara
Lake Burley Griffin photo by Martin Antrobus
Photo: Martin Antrobus
Lake Burley Griffin photo by James Starzacher
Photo: James Starzacher
Lake Burley Griffin photo by P and H
Photo: P and H
Lake Burley Griffin photo by Al Hanbridge
Photo: Al Hanbridge
Lake Burley Griffin photo by steve thomas2008
Photo: steve thomas2008
Lake Burley Griffin photo by Miss Balwinder Kaur
Photo: Miss Balwinder Kaur
Lake Burley Griffin photo by travelling lina
Photo: travelling lina
Lake Burley Griffin photo by Chris Goram
Photo: Chris Goram
Lake Burley Griffin photo by Natasha Campbell
Photo: Natasha Campbell
Lake Burley Griffin photo by Rahul Dutta
Photo: Rahul Dutta
Lake Burley Griffin photo by Kate Vivian
Photo: Kate Vivian
Lake Burley Griffin photo by Rantz Alot
Photo: Rantz Alot
Lake Burley Griffin photo by Michael JasonSmith
Photo: Michael JasonSmith
Lake Burley Griffin photo by David Buckley
Photo: David Buckley
Lake Burley Griffin photo by Niveditha Raj
Photo: Niveditha Raj
Lake Burley Griffin photo by RebeccaRodgers
Photo: RebeccaRodgers
Lake Burley Griffin photo by Megan Dunn
Photo: Megan Dunn
Lake Burley Griffin photo by David Wolfram
Photo: David Wolfram
 

 
Lodge


Prime Minister's residence
Corner Adelaide Avenue & National Circuit
Deakin
Canberra, ACT 2600
Australia
+61 2 6205 0044 (Tourist Information)
Situated on 1.8 hectares in the shadow of New Parliament House, the Lodge is the official residence of the Australian Prime Minister. Built in 1927 specifically for this purpose, the house is furnished in 1920s style, and features work from Australian artists of that period. The immaculate grounds feature a stunning native garden, tennis court, croquet lawn, swimming pool and even a vegetable garden. The Lodge is not usually open to the public, however there are several open days throughout the year.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Mount Ainslie


A Living Map
Mount Ainslie Reserve
Canberra, ACT
Australia
+61 2 6205 0044
It is no mistake that Mount Ainslie commands our attention, with its position at the head of Anzac Parade, directly opposite Parliament House. Architect Walter Burley Griffin incorporated the natural features of the landscape into his design for the new capital city of Canberra. From above the eucalyptus tree tops on Mount Ainslie, you can view the entire city, from the white spray of the Captain Cook Memorial water jet to the largest flag in Australia fluttering atop the capital building. A short drive, or if you prefer, an hour walk, are both acceptable ways to reach the top for these exquisite views.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Mount Ainslie photo by Peter
Photo: Peter
Mount Ainslie photo by Matt Sheppard
Photo: Matt Sheppard
Mount Ainslie photo by David Mackay
Photo: David Mackay
Mount Ainslie photo by Matt Sheppard
Photo: Matt Sheppard
Mount Ainslie photo by Ryan Hayes
Photo: Ryan Hayes
 

 
Namadgi National Park


Walk on the wild side
Namadgi Visitor Centre
Naas Road
Canberra, ACT 2620
Australia
+61 2 6207 2900
http://www.australianalps.deh....
Rich in Aboriginal and European history, Namadgi National Park provides a spectacular mountainous backdrop to Canberra. It covers 45% of the Australian Capital Territory and its rivers supply 85% of Canberra and Queanbeyan's water—an important consideration in the selection of Canberra as Australia's capital. Namadgi lies at the northern end of the Australian Alps, which extend through southern New South Wales to Victoria. In winter, enjoy cross-country skiing and other snow activities. At other times, explore the numerous walking tracks. The Visitor Center provides further information and has an excellent display on the park.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Namadgi National Park photo by Geoff Main
Photo: Geoff Main
 

 
National Gallery of Australia


The heart of Australian art
Parkes Place
Parkes
Canberra, ACT 2601
Australia
+61 2 6240 6502
http://www.nga.gov.au
The pride of Canberra, the National Gallery exhibits collections that highlight the talent of Australian and international artists. A vast range of mediums and styles grace the walls of this contemporary space set on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin. The lush sculpture garden is a fine place for quiet breaks and the children's exhibits are sure to please and amaze.There is something for everyone including an extensive gift shop and the gallery's cafes. Special travelling exhibits include renowned national and international art. Admission Free for the permanent collection.

Review © 2007, Wcities
National Gallery of Australia photo by Tiger Lily
Photo: Tiger Lily
National Gallery of Australia photo by Estee Wah
Photo: Estee Wah
National Gallery of Australia photo by Samantha Post
Photo: Samantha Post
National Gallery of Australia photo by Roger F1
Photo: Roger F1
National Gallery of Australia photo by Arnold Kopff
Photo: Arnold Kopff
National Gallery of Australia photo by PaulW
Photo: PaulW
National Gallery of Australia photo by PaulW
Photo: PaulW
National Gallery of Australia photo by Walter Rumsby
Photo: Walter Rumsby
National Gallery of Australia photo by Nathan Chapman
Photo: Nathan Chapman
National Gallery of Australia photo by C. M. L. Howell
Photo: C. M. L. Howell
National Gallery of Australia photo by Chris and Lyndal
Photo: Chris and Lyndal
National Gallery of Australia photo by Belinda Harris
Photo: Belinda Harris
National Gallery of Australia photo by Amrit MacIntyre
Photo: Amrit MacIntyre
National Gallery of Australia photo by Sonja Drimmer
Photo: Sonja Drimmer
National Gallery of Australia photo by Robin Eliovson
Photo: Robin Eliovson
National Gallery of Australia photo by Heather Birch
Photo: Heather Birch
National Gallery of Australia photo by Luke Roberts
Photo: Luke Roberts
National Gallery of Australia photo by Anders Alexander
Photo: Anders Alexander
National Gallery of Australia photo by David Bristow
Photo: David Bristow
National Gallery of Australia photo by Eric Heenan
Photo: Eric Heenan
 

 
National Library of Australia


Our history framed in words
Parkes Place
Parkes
Canberra, ACT 2600
Australia
+61 2 6262 1370
http://www.nla.gov.au
Henry Moore's reclining sculpture lets the visitor know they are about to enter an important place. The next indicators are the colourful windows made by Australian artist Leonard French, which depict the various planets. But the real treat is the 200 kilometres of shelving, which hold over five million books. In addition to books, there are also numerous paintings, manuscripts, maps, newspapers and photographs. The visitor centre and gallery offers behind-the-scenes tours as well as some entertaining stories about the history of this extensive collection. Treat yourself to the history (and future) of a nation.

Review © 2007, Wcities
National Library of Australia photo by Alexander Johannesen
Photo: Alexander Johannesen
National Library of Australia photo by Rob Barker
Photo: Rob Barker
National Library of Australia photo by Chris Hudson
Photo: Chris Hudson
National Library of Australia photo by Ben Kraal
Photo: Ben Kraal
National Library of Australia photo by Alexander Johannesen
Photo: Alexander Johannesen
National Library of Australia photo by Cathy Miller
Photo: Cathy Miller
National Library of Australia photo by James Hannigan
Photo: James Hannigan
National Library of Australia photo by Simon Trommestad
Photo: Simon Trommestad
National Library of Australia photo by Paul Livingston
Photo: Paul Livingston
National Library of Australia photo by Pete McGrath
Photo: Pete McGrath
National Library of Australia photo by Gunther Glesti
Photo: Gunther Glesti
National Library of Australia photo by Phil Hartell
Photo: Phil Hartell
National Library of Australia photo by tilly_dog
Photo: tilly_dog
National Library of Australia photo by Jason Guo
Photo: Jason Guo
National Library of Australia photo by robert marin
Photo: robert marin
National Library of Australia photo by Andrew & Lisa
Photo: Andrew & Lisa
National Library of Australia photo by Winfield Sterling
Photo: Winfield Sterling
 

 
National Science and Technology Centre


Science for Everyone
King Edward Terrace
Parkes
Canberra, ACT 2600
Australia
+61 2 6270 2800
http://www.questacon.edu.au
Get ready for an earthquake, as the Questacon Centre shakes you up with a wide and exciting variety of exhibitions. Proud of their interactive policy, the museum boasts over 200 exhibits housed within six enormous galleries. The mysteries of modern technology and science are revealed through touch, sight and sound as the museum encourages hands-on learning. This is a unique museum suitable for the whole family.

Review © 2007, Wcities
National Science and Technology Centre photo by Peter
Photo: Peter
 

 
Old Parliament House


Power House
King George Terrace
Parkes
Canberra, ACT 2600
Australia
+61 2 6270 8222
http://www.oph.gov.au/
An integral part of Canberra's history, this original seat of power is a wonderful step back in time. The self-guided tour takes 45 minutes and is a great way to see the building. The National Portrait Gallery is located on the top floor at the far end of Kings Hall. An impressive room, the hall was considered modern for its time and was the meeting place for House and Senate members. Mount Ainslie can be viewed across the waters of Lake Burley Griffin as well as other significant sites along Anzac Parade--the main axis of this impressive, planned capital city.ily AUD5.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Old Parliament House photo by smellimelle
Photo: smellimelle
Old Parliament House photo by Venkatesh Katta
Photo: Venkatesh Katta
Old Parliament House photo by Stuart H
Photo: Stuart H
Old Parliament House photo by Benni Boy
Photo: Benni Boy
Old Parliament House photo by freef0cus
Photo: freef0cus
Old Parliament House photo by Katie Hannan
Photo: Katie Hannan
Old Parliament House photo by Venkatesh Katta
Photo: Venkatesh Katta
Old Parliament House photo by Chris
Photo: Chris
Old Parliament House photo by Matt Malone
Photo: Matt Malone
Old Parliament House photo by Rene Sanchez
Photo: Rene Sanchez
Old Parliament House photo by Santa Fe
Photo: Santa Fe
Old Parliament House photo by William Law
Photo: William Law
 

 
Parliament House


The Seat of Government
Capital Hill
Canberra, ACT 2600
Australia
+61 2 6277 5399
http://www.aph.gov.au/
Australians have more reason than most to boast about their capital building, a unique and captivating structure. Visible from across the city, the green lawns and white pillars contrast well against the muted bush beyond. Within, the architecture envelops you with its many moods, hidden gardens and expressive geometry. Inside, a collection of more than 4,000 artworks, ranging from historic portrait to contemporary landscape, will amaze the visitor. Guided tours of the building and gardens are available every day and are a great way to acquaint yourself with the subtle mysteries of this exceptional building. Admission: Free.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Parliament House photo by write_babe
Photo: write_babe
Parliament House photo by Richard Rosalion
Photo: Richard Rosalion
Parliament House photo by Amy Walters
Photo: Amy Walters
Parliament House photo by tiredcynic
Photo: tiredcynic
Parliament House photo by Jenny Dobson
Photo: Jenny Dobson
Parliament House photo by Stefan Tritsch
Photo: Stefan Tritsch
Parliament House photo by Aaron Ramshaw
Photo: Aaron Ramshaw
Parliament House photo by Aaron Ramshaw
Photo: Aaron Ramshaw
Parliament House photo by Nick Caldwell
Photo: Nick Caldwell
Parliament House photo by Dean Gifford
Photo: Dean Gifford
Parliament House photo by Pippa Buchanan
Photo: Pippa Buchanan
Parliament House photo by Emma Wynne
Photo: Emma Wynne
Parliament House photo by Darryl Whyatt
Photo: Darryl Whyatt
Parliament House photo by Robert Pfeifer
Photo: Robert Pfeifer
Parliament House photo by Lee Haskings
Photo: Lee Haskings
Parliament House photo by Matthew Hodgson
Photo: Matthew Hodgson
Parliament House photo by Elmer Medalla
Photo: Elmer Medalla
Parliament House photo by tEE.bEE
Photo: tEE.bEE
Parliament House photo by Matt Francis
Photo: Matt Francis
Parliament House photo by David McDermott
Photo: David McDermott
Parliament House photo by Stephen McDonald
Photo: Stephen McDonald
Parliament House photo by ats_500
Photo: ats_500
Parliament House photo by Paula Hatch
Photo: Paula Hatch
Parliament House photo by Aftab Uzzaman
Photo: Aftab Uzzaman
Parliament House photo by The Members of  the Parliment of Sri Lanka
Photo: The Members of the Parliment of Sri Lanka
Parliament House photo by Elusia
Photo: Elusia
Parliament House photo by Daniel Zimmer
Photo: Daniel Zimmer
Parliament House photo by Hilde Van Horenbeeck
Photo: Hilde Van Horenbeeck
Parliament House photo by Now&Forever
Photo: Now&Forever
Parliament House photo by phreakyqow
Photo: phreakyqow
Parliament House photo by Daniel Kjellin
Photo: Daniel Kjellin
 

 
Queanbeyan


A queen of cities
Kings Highway
Canberra, ACT 2620
Australia
+61 2 6298 0241 / +61 2 6298 0242 (Tourist Information)
http://www.queanbeyan.nsw.gov.au
In 1820, three explorers came across the junction of two small streams flowing into a snug valley to the east of the Limestone Plains. A natural halting place for travellers, this site evolved into Queanbeyan. With a population of 28,000, Queanbeyan's development has been closely tied to that of Canberra. It was proclaimed a city in 1972 and now offers great facilities, shopping and service industries. The many attractions include Molonglo Gorge, Googong Dam and Foreshores, many beautiful city parks and historic buildings such as Ye Olde Kent House.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Queanbeyan photo by gailnbruce
Photo: gailnbruce
Queanbeyan photo by Brooke Lenon
Photo: Brooke Lenon
 

 
Royal Australian Mint


The Making of Money
Denison Street
Deakin
Canberra, ACT 2600
Australia
+61 2 6202 6819
http://www.ramint.gov.au/
Here is your chance to really "make" some money. This tour allows you to mint your own AUD1 coin as well as view the large coin collection on site. Find out Governor Macquarie's unique solution to the 1813 coin shortage, discover "Adelaide Ingots" and the 1930-penny that was never meant to exist. This unique exhibit is perfect for coin collections and kids alike (both big and little!) The Coin Shop allows you to take some treasures home and the cafe offers a quiet spot to put your feet up and enjoy a snack.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Royal Australian Mint photo by Philip Weale
Photo: Philip Weale
Royal Australian Mint photo by Himadhu Kottege
Photo: Himadhu Kottege
Royal Australian Mint photo by Eric G by Billy M
Photo: Eric G by Billy M
 

 
Royal Military College, Duntroon


Premier military college
Morshead Drive
Duntroon
Canberra, ACT 2601
Australia
+61 2 6265 9537
http://www.defence.gov.au/army...
Royal Military College, Duntroon, was founded in 1911. It was formerly a sheep station owned by the Campbell family with the original 1834 homestead, Duntroon House, now used as the Officers' Mess. The college was established to train officers of the permanent military forces. The Australian Defence Forces Academy providing university education for officer cadets, is adjacent to Duntroon. Take a walk or drive through Duntroon and see Changi Chapel, and the Royal Military Chapel of St Paul. A tour of Duntroon is available on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 2.30pm except November to March and public holidays.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Royal Military College, Duntroon photo by Spliffman
Photo: Spliffman
Royal Military College, Duntroon photo by Spliffman
Photo: Spliffman
 

 
Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve


Nature at its best
Paddys River Road
Tidbinbilla
Canberra, ACT 2620
Australia
+61 2 6205 1233
You can easily spend a day here on some of the many guided or self-guided walks through the fern gullies or mountain trails. You will come face-to-face with kangaroos, emus and waterbirds, and you might catch a glimpse of some echidnas, lyrebirds or a platypus. Tidbinbilla is a protected area which is used for research and education as well as recreation. It is surrounded by mountains which are of special significance to the Aborigines.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve photo by Alexander Johannesen
Photo: Alexander Johannesen
Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve photo by Stuart H
Photo: Stuart H
Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve photo by shaunandkristen
Photo: shaunandkristen
Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve photo by shaunandkristen
Photo: shaunandkristen
Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve photo by Jo Kay
Photo: Jo Kay
Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve photo by Rod McCarley
Photo: Rod McCarley
Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve photo by Simon Pow
Photo: Simon Pow
Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve photo by carinaundanne
Photo: carinaundanne
Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve photo by Siang Yin
Photo: Siang Yin
Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve photo by Kim Gourlay
Photo: Kim Gourlay
 

 
Tuggeranong Creek and Axe Grinding Grooves


A piece of pre-history
Tuggeranong Hill Nature Park, Christmas Street
Theodore
Canberra, ACT 2905
Australia
Enter the nature park from Christmas Street. Walk from the sign designating the park towards two eucalyptus trees to find aboriginal artifacts. This southern section of the Tuggeranong Valley contains a large flat area of exposed sandstone rock with some 50 shallow grooves worn into the surface. These were used by the Aborigines to grind stones into sharp edges for use as axes. The water needed to lubricate the grinding process came from Tuggeranong Creek. The creek flows below the site on the other side of the Monaro Highway.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Other Schmapplets in this city related to "Canberra - Historical Background"
Canberra
Canberra - Neighborhood Guide
Canberra - Where to Stay
Canberra - Dining & Drinking
Canberra - Art & Entertainment

Other nearby cities:
Sydney (246 miles)
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Hobart (860 miles)
Brisbane (931 miles)
Adelaide (958 miles)
Christchurch (2211 miles)
Auckland (2307 miles)
Wellington (2330 miles)
Perth (3090 miles)
Kauai (8370 miles)

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