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Home > Our
Publications > Travel Australia > March 2007
Nation's capital caters for all
CANBERRA'S
attractions hold and share the treasures of the nation. Celebrate
Australia's proud sporting achievements, delve into our unique
political history, and reflect on our young nation's experience on the
international stage. See our country and people through the eyes of our
artists and experience Australian character through sound and film,
books and exhibitions.
National attractions
The essence of Australia's culture, history and way of life is
reflected in the national museums, galleries and institutions in
Canberra. These national icons hold and share the treasures of our
nation, offering an intriguing insight into Australian character and
democracy, and our journey from an Indigenous continent to a modern
nation.
Arts and culture
See the essence of Australia's culture, history and way of life
reflected in the national museums, galleries and institutions in
Canberra. These national attractions hold and share the treasures of
our nation, offering an intriguing insight into Australian character
and democracy, and our journey from an Indigenous continent to a modern
multicultural nation.
History
The Canberra region had a rich Indigenous and farming heritage long
before Australia's early politicians thought of choosing the area for
the new federal capital in the early 1900s. From this time onwards, as
its oldest buildings were acquired by the new federal government, the
area's rural heritage became inextricably intertwined with its history
as a purpose-built capital.
Family fun
With so many attractions and museums and fun things to do, even the big
kids can get away with being children in Canberra. Here are just some
of the great things to do for families.
Experience an earthquake and much more at Questacon - the National
Science and Technology Centre, or take the kids through the children's
gallery at the National Gallery of Australia. Kids will love the
hands-on interactive exhibitions at the National Museum of Australia,
or take them on the specially designed kids' tour at the National Zoo
and Aquarium to see tigons, cheetahs, bears, monkeys and the shark
tank. Let the kids mint their own $1 coin on the public coining presses
at the Royal Australian Mint, which has the capacity to produce two
million coins a day.
At the Australian Institute of Sport, take a tour with an elite athlete
and test your skills at virtual rowing, wheelchair basketball and the
gymnastic beam. The miniature buildings at Cockington Green Gardens
make even the smallest child a giant. While you're there visit the
nearby Gold Creek Village which is filled with great family
attractions, as well as a tempting lolly shop.
Sport
Sport is a vital part of the Australian way of life, and Canberra is
home to some of Australia's top sports heroes. Cheer on Canberra's top
rugby league and rugby union teams, catch an Australian Football League
game, watch cricket, play golf on the many outstanding golf courses or
cycle through beautiful scenery.
Outdoors and nature
Canberra is a city in a park, a landscaped capital carefully designed
to transform with the four distinct seasons. But beneath the golden
autumn leaves and spring blooms is a vibrant city, spread amongst parks
and stretches of green open space that are perfect for relaxing and
enjoying the fresh air.
Science and technology
Canberra is a centre for science and technology. Experience an
earthquake or get close to a lightening bolt at Questacon -the National
Science and Technology Centre, or touch giant stick insects, see a
model wind turbine and wind tunnel at the CSIRO Discovery Centre, a
showcase for achievements in Australian science and technology.
Shopping
Canberra offers everything from luxury boutiques, malls and department
stores to street markets and local designers if you know where to look.
Wineries
Canberra region cool climate wines are now receiving worldwide
recognition. There are 140 vineyards with more than 30 cellar doors in
peaceful rural countryside around Canberra, and most are only 30
minutes from the city.
The district's vineyards produce all the varieties you would expect
from a premium wine region. Despite the sophisticated product, the
wineries are small and friendly and you may even get to meet the
winemaker at the cellar door. |