With 2,400 square kilometres of land, Australia’s Capital Territory lies surrounded by New South Wales with bush land covering approximately 70 per cent of the total area of the territory.

Canberra (CBR) Airport is only 5 miles from the city centre, and approximately three hours by car from Sydney.

Canberra lies 150 kilometres inland and 571 metres above sea level. It is 668 kilometres from Melbourne and 289 kilometres from Sydney with a population of about 320,000.

Chosen to be Australia’s capital in 1908 Canberra, was built to a symmetrical and premeditated design by Walter Burley Griffin. Griffin was a prominent architect from Chicago USA who won an international design competition in 1912. The design certainly had tourism in mind with most attractions with walking distance of each other and the rest within a 10 minute drive. Canberra is a city built around a man made lake (Lake Burley Griffin) and is surrounded by bush land. It is the seat of the Australian government and the cultural hub of Australia with an excellent choice of accommodation and and a vibrant nightlife.

Beautiful galleries and museums such as the National Archives of Australia situated in Canberra’s original post office building, now houses Commonwealth and government records together with photographs, maps paintings and historic film. The National Gallery of Australia housing probably the best collection of Australian art in the world including Aboriginal art. The National Museum of Australia holds a fascination of history for the visitor to Australia. Parliament House opened in 1988, made of marble and built inside a hill with a grass roof is situated on Capital Hill. Over 3000 art works commissioned from Australian artists adorn the interior and should be compulsory viewing. Near to the National Gallery lies a clean cut white building known as the Questacon, a high tec purpose built science museum containing five galleries containing over two hundred devices. An earthquake experience is amongst other great fun interactive displays.

Great restaurants are plentiful and lively cafes make Canberra a delightful city to visit. Cultural events take place all year round.

PLACES TO SEE

Parliamentary Triangle
The Parliamentary Triangle is the national buildings and main attractions situated in the shape of a triangle sprawled across Lake Burley Griffin. At the top of this triangle is Capital Hill with Parliament house at its peak. Two major roads splay out from Capital Hill, Kings Avenue and Commonwealth Avenue, both joining Parkes Way, which forms the base of the triangle.

From the centre of Parkes way, Anzac Parade, which is lined with nine war memorials, leaves the triangle at a 90 degree angle and leads directly to the Australian War memorial.

Lake Burley Griffin, named after the city’s architect, is a man made lake which created by building a dam on the Molonglo River in 1963. In the centre of the lake is the Captain Cook Memorial Jet which shoots water to a height of 450 ft.

Old Parliament House
The Old Parliament House with its neo-classical façade was the first parliament building built in Canberra in 1927, in use until for more than 60 years until the new Parliament House was opened in 1988.

The Old Parliament House has been witness to many of Australia’s historic events such as the declaration of war in 1939 and the breaking of news in 1942 that the Japanese had bombed Australia’s northern shores.

Blundell’s Cottage
Built in 1858 Blundell’s Cottage is a great example of a colonial workers house. It once looked out across farmland, but this was flooded by the creation of Lake Burley Griffin.

National Capital Exhibition
Located in Commonwealth Park, at Regatta Point, the National Capital Exhibition is a great starting point for any tour of Canberra as it contains information in the form of old photographs models and videos charting the history and layout of the capital. A clear view of Lake Burley Griffin, Parliamentary Triangle and the Captain Cook Memorial Jet and Globe is visible from the rotunda windows of the building.

Captain Cook Memorial Jet and Globe
The Captain Cook Memorial Jet and Globe was added to the lake in 1970 to honour the bicentennial commemoration of the claiming of the east coast of Australia for the British Empire by Captain Cook in 1770. This beautiful fountain shoots a 480ft stream of water into the air between 10.a.m. to 12 noon and from 2p.m. to 4p.m. daily (weather dependent).

High Court of Australia
Opened in 1980 by Queen Elizabeth II this imposing building stands on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin and if certainly worth a visit whilst in Canberra.

Questacon - The National Science and Technology Centre
This building revolves around a cylindrical centre with six different galleries offering more than 200 hands on and interactive exhibitions.

Parliament House
Opened in 1988 this impressive government building cost a cool A$1.1 billion. Visitors to Parliament House are welcome and it is open (9.00am – 5.00pm on non-sitting days and 9.00am to House rise on sitting days). There is a free guide service which helps visitors and they may also participate in guided tours of Parliament House. The free tours happen every half hour commencing from 9.00am.

The building has been constructed to represent a voyage through Australia's history. The Forecourt, has a mosaic dot painting and represents Aboriginal culture in Australia.

Timber and marble have been used in the main lobby symbolic of the arrival of Europeans to Australia. Australian wood has been used in the Great Hall, and the Great Hall Tapestry and Embroidery symbolise the settlement and husbandry of the land.

The Members' Hall, is a high-ceilinged, ceremonial space set in the middle of the building, directly underneath the flagpole. Here the North-South axis of the building crosses with the East-West law-making axis that joins the Senate and House of Representatives Chambers.

The Main Committee Room represents Australia’s future because the work of committees affects the nation's representative democracy.

The building is internationally recognised as a major architectural achievement integrating art and construction. There are quite a few specially commission pieces of art that are actually integrated in to the building itself.

PARKS AND GARDENS

Australian National Botanic Gardens
Clunies Ross Street,
Acton, Canberra,
Australian Capital Territory, 2601

One of the best collections of Australian flora in the world, with 6,800 difference species set over a 40 acre site.

Email Enquiries: anbg-info@anbg.gov.au
Fax Enquiries: +61 02 6250 9599
Telephone Enquiries: +61 02 6250 9450
URL Enquiries: www.anbg.gov.au

Australian Reptile Centre Canberra
Gold Creek Village,
Nicholls,
Canberra,
Australian Capital Territory, 2913

Housing some of Australia's largest, deadliest and most colourful reptiles in Australia.

Fax Enquiries: +61 02 6253 8544
Telephone Enquiries: +61 02 6253 8533
URL Enquiries: www.contact.com.au/reptile

Bird Walk (Walk-In Aviary)
Shop 14 Federation Square,
Nicholls,
Canberra,
Australian Capital Territory, 2913

Location:15 minutes from Canberra city centre, in the craft village of Federation Square. Bird Walk boasts over 50 varieties of birds. including over 200 Australian parrots and 350 finches.

Email Enquiries: bruce.allan@bigpond.com
Email Enquiries: bruce@apet.com.au
Fax Enquiries: +61 02 6230 9189
Fax Enquiries: +61 02 6254 6369
Mobile Telephone Enquiries: +61 02 0414 718 798
Telephone Enquiries: +61 02 6230 2044
URL Enquiries: www.apet.com.au

Cockington Green Gardens
Gold Creek Village,
Nicholls,
Canberra,
Australian Capital Territory, 2913

A world in miniature is waiting to be discovered at Cockington Green Gardens.

Email Enquiries: info@cockingtongreen.com.au
Fax Enquiries: +61 02 6230 2490
Telephone Enquiries: +61 02 6230 2273
Tollfree Enquiries: 1800 627 273

Cotter Reserve
Cotter Road,
Canberra,
Australian Capital Territory, 2000

A well-liked leisure location for picnics, swimming and relaxation at the side of the Murrumbidgee River. Amenities consist of walking tracks to the dam and river, playground equipment and limited overnight camping spots. Refreshments are available.

Contact Details:
Telephone Enquiries: +61 02 6207 2486

TOURS CANBERRA
ANU Union Bar
Corner University Avenue & North Road,
Acton, Canberra,
Australian Capital Territory, 2601

University bar during the day, but then one of the best live music venues in Canberra. Indie gigs, CD launches, national and international tours, all-night raves and dance parties. Draught beer and pool tables, juke box.

Email Enquiries: www.anu-union.enquiries@anu.edu.au
Facsimile Enquiries: +61 02 6247 1823
Telephone Enquiries: +61 02 6125 3660
Telephone Enquiries: +61 02 6249 2446
Aquila Helicopters
16 Alanson Place,

Isaacs,
Canberra,
Australian Capital Territory, 2607

Aquila Helicopters offer a good range of scenic flights and tours over the Australian Capital Territory, the Snowy Mountains and the far South Coast of NSW. Their new helicopter provides scenic views and every passenger getss a window seat for great photo opportunities.

Email Enquiries: chris.farrell@bigpond.com
Mobile Telephone Enquiries: +61 null0412 066 766
URL Enquiries: www.aquilahelicopters.com.au

Special needs:
Disabled access: Contact operator for further details.

Belconnen Fresh Food Markets
Lathlain Street,
Belconnen,
Canberra,
Australian Capital Territory, 2617

Treat yourself you a visit to this exciting food market, the best in Canberra, an absolute must for your taste buds!

Email Enquiries: liz@belconnenmarkets.com.au
Facsimile Enquiries: +61 02 6251 7721
Mobile Telephone Enquiries: +61 02 0416 244 566
Telephone Enquiries: +61 02 6251 1680

Opening Times:
Monday: Some stores 8am-6pm
Tuesday: Some stores 8am-6pm
Wednesday: 8am-6pm
Thursday: 8am-6pm
Friday: 8am-6pm
Saturday: 8am-6pm
Sunday: 8am-6pm

Brindabella Bike Tours
PO Box 7096, Watson,
Canberra,
Australian Capital Territory, 2602

Brindabella Bike Tours is a family-owned business that specialises in providing a range of cycling touring options designed to suit all skill and fitness levels.

Mobile Telephone Enquiries: +61 null0407 426 276
Telephone Enquiries: +61 02 6242 6276

Brindabella Wine Tours
Old Bus Depot Markets,
Kingston,
Canberra,
Australian Capital Territory, 2604

Escorted tours of the Canberra wine district (Canberra, Hall, Murrumbateman or Bungendore/Lake George) by expert, experienced and welcoming guides who give a running commentary about the tour.

Fax Enquiries: +61 02 6231 6081
Mobile Telephone Enquiries: +61 02 0408 626 918

Burnlee Excursions on Horseback
Dicks Creek Rd,
Murrumbateman,
New South Wales, 2582

Horse riding through a 3500 acre estate on the outskirts of Canberra. For bookings and enquiries contact Lindsey and Christine Butt.

Telephone Enquiries: +61 02 6227 5504
Capital 4WD Tours

16 Morrison St,
Kambah,
Canberra,
Australian Capital Territory, 2902

Tag along tours covering ACT and New South Wales national parks.
Own 4WD required.

Email Enquiries: capital4wdtours@bigpond.com
Fax Enquiries: +61 02 6231 3257
Mobile Telephone Enquiries: +61 02 0402 778 725
Mobile Telephone Enquiries: +61 02 0427 778 725

CCBD Chauffeured Transport
211 Dairy Road,
Fyshwick,
Canberra,
Australian Capital Territory, 2609

First class chauffeured ground transportation. See Parliament, the wineries and places of interest in style with tailored tours. Immaculate Ford Sedans and stretches, Toyota 4WD, minibuses from 9-21 seats and coaches on request.

Fax Enquiries: +61 02 6280 8324
Telephone Enquiries: +61 02 6280 9899


Dawn Drifters - Canberra Balloon Flights
Shop 10,
Curtin,
Canberra,
Australian Capital Territory, 2605

Scenic hot air balloon flights over Canberra.

Email Enquiries: sales@dawndrifters.com.au
Fax Enquiries: +61 02 6281 5315
Mobile Telephone Enquiries: +61 02 0412 709 543
Telephone Enquiries: +61 02 6285 4450

Destiny Tours
Canberra City,
Canberra,
Australian Capital Territory, 2600
Hosted by Tim the Yowie Man. The strange, grisly, scary and creepy side of Canberra - Full of spooky history that isn’t in the guide books.
Email Enquiries: allan@destinytours.com.au
Facsimile Enquiries: +61 02 9943 1108
Mobile Telephone Enquiries: +61 02 0414 232 244

Explorer Bus - Canberra Day Tours
157 Castleton Crescent,
Gowrie,
Canberra,
Australian Capital Territory, 2904

Canberra Day Tours offer a Hop on Hop off Bus tour which visit’s the majority of Canberra's best attractions. Buses leave from outside Students Flights office, Platform 16, Melbourne Building - 59 Northbourne Avenue, Canberra City

Email Enquiries: canberradaytours@bigpond.com
Mobile Telephone Enquiries: +61 null0418 455 099
Tollfree Enquiries: 1300 554 114

Fishing Adventures
Experienced angler Rob Paxevanos provides professional tuition and experienced knowledge for fishing for trout, murray cod, golden perch and other species.

Email Enquiries: robpax@netspeed.com.au
Fax Enquiries: +61 02 6161 4077
Mobile Telephone Enquiries: +61 02 0402 818 491
Telephone Enquiries: +61 02 6239 7047

Go Bush Tours
128 Marconi Cescent,
Kambah,
Canberra,
Australian Capital Territory, 2902

Personalised guided tours of Canberra and region, with welcoming and well-informed guides. Tours include the Australian Alps, Namadgi National Park, Snowy Mountainsm, Mungo National Park and Broken Hill.

Fax Enquiries: +61 02 6231 1339
Mobile Telephone Enquiries: +61 02 0414 313 023
Mobile Telephone Enquiries: +61 02 0417 291 343
Telephone Enquiries: +61 02 6231 3023

Heli Air
Ceres Road,
Canberra International Airport,
Canberra,
Australian Capital Territory, 2609

Operating out of Canberra International Airport, Heli Air offer a variety of picturesque helicopter flights over Canberra and the Brindabella Ranges.

Email Enquiries: heliair@bigpond.com
Facsimile Enquiries: +61 02 6257 0999
Mobile Telephone Enquiries: +61 02 0419 988 045
Telephone Enquiries: +61 02 6257 0777

Lake Burley Griffin Cruises
12 Baddeley Crescent,
Spence,
Canberra,
Australian Capital Territory, 2615

The E L Cygnet, an elegant Edwardian style electric launch, leaves from Acton Ferry Terminal and tours Lake Burley Griffin. Booking is essential.

Fax Enquiries: +61 02 6258 9271
Mobile Telephone Enquiries: +61 02 0419 418 846

Lakeside Ferry Cruises
14 Tambo Street,
Kaleen,
Canberra,
Australian Capital Territory, 2617

The SS Maid Marion with her Skipper John Arganesebeauty will show you Canberra from a new perspective. Daily cruises leave from the National Museum of Australia, National Library and Regatta point terminals. Bookings essential.

Fax Enquiries: +61 02 6241 5831
Mobile Telephone Enquiries: +61 02 0418 828 357

Moonlight Bus
33 Froggatt Street,
Turner,
Canberra,
Australian Capital Territory, 2601

Tours of the discos/dinner/nightclubs of Canberra. Free entry to nightclubs, discounted drinks, and complimentary champagne.

Fax Enquiries: +61 02 6257 7339
Mobile Telephone Enquiries: +61 02 0407 996 312
Telephone Enquiries: +61 02 6257 1051

Mud Maps
PO Box 31,
Campbell,
Canberra,
Australian Capital Territory, 2612

Specialist wilderness tour company who offer daily tours to and from Sydney, Canberra, and Melbourne for overseas visitors.

Email Enquiries: mudmaps@mudmaps.com
Telephone Enquiries: +61 02 6257 4796
Toll free Enquiries: 888 MUDMAPS

NOASC Australia PTY Ltd
8 Jacob Pl, Melba,
Canberra,
Australian Capital Territory, 2615

Outdoor adventure company who offer half to two day tours in a assortment of adventure activities. Tours include canyoning, bush walking, ballooning and 4WD sightseeing. Also available is horse riding, spotlighting, paint balling sea kayaking, rock climbing/abseiling, caving, mountain biking, inflatable kayaking, family rafting and white water rafting,

Email Enquiries: noascaustralia@bigpond.com
Facsimile Enquiries: +61 02 6259 8978
Mobile Telephone Enquiries: +61 02 0403 502 000
Telephone Enquiries: +61 02 6259 8968
URL Enquiries: www.noasc.com

R.E.A.L Fun Adventures
Canberra South Motor Park,
Symonston,
Canberra,
Australian Capital Territory, 2609

Experience the adventure of Canberra’s great outdoors. Adventures include abseiling, canyoning, caving, abseiling, kayaking, canoeing, white water rafting camping and mountain bike riding.

Email Enquiries: adventure@realfun.com.au
Fax Enquiries: +61 02 6228 1265
Telephone Enquiries: +61 02 6228 1264
Toll free Enquiries: 1800 637 486
URL Enquiries: www.realfun.com.au

Southern Cross Cruises
Mariner Place,
Yarralumla,
Canberra,
Australian Capital Territory, 2600

A purpose built boat and floating restaurant, seating up to 90 people for a scheduled 1 hour cruise or 60 for dining. Cruises operate daily at 10am and 3pm, with full commentary on major attractions and historical features.

Contact Details:
Email Enquiries: reception.yacht@cscc.com.au

Facsimile Enquiries: +61 02 6273 2984
Telephone Enquiries: +61 02 6273 1784
URL Enquiries: www.cscc.com.au

Umbrella Tours & Events
PO Box E367,
Kingston, Canberra,
Australian Capital Territory, 2604

Parliamentary Triangle, Floriade and Food Tours.
Email Enquiries: umbrella@apex.net.au
Telephone Enquiries: +61 02 6285 2605
URL Enquiries: www.canberraregion.com.au

Umbrella Tours & Events
Address: PO Box E367,
Kingston,
Canberra,
Australian Capital Territory,
2604

Specialists in Parliamentary Triangle, Floriade and Food Tours. Customised themes and routes to fit your interests. Twilight walks during daylight saving.

Wine Wisdom
7 Toolambi Street,
Narrabundah,
Canberra,
Australian Capital Territory, 2604

Tours of the Canberra District wine areas with small groups on fully hosted tours.

Email Enquiries: info@winewisdom.com.au
Fax Enquiries: +61 02 6260 7774
Telephone Enquiries: +61 02 6260 7773
URL Enquiries: www.winewisdom.com.au

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