Looking at the old and new Parliament Houses from the War Memorial.

Before boarding Turkish Airlines for Europe we have had some time in Canberra with the grandkids while Tom and Helen have a holiday in North Queensland (with Tom completing a half ironman event).

The more time we spend in Canberra the more we have come to appreciate what that the city has to offer. While the kids were at school Collette and I had a chance to explore some of Canberra’s latest offerings.

The first was Old Parliament House which has been beautifully maintained and developed into the Museum of Australian Democracy. What a fantastic transition for such an important and historic national building. The new exhibition we went to see was The Press Gallery. This was a tour through the history and characters of the press gallery, highlighting its importance in the democratic process. A fascinating 2 hours.

Dorothy Tangney, first female senator and Enid Lyons, first female House of Representatives member, remembered in bronze near the parliamentary gardens.

The old House of Representatives. The senior press gallery members occupied the seats above the speaker’s chair.

The ABC broadcast desk.

The old Senate chamber.

Central courtyard.

Another of the exhibitions is of the work of political cartoonists. This is a brilliant demonstration of the art and satire of the cartoonist covering from the early 1900’s to present.

Questacon – National Science and Technology Centre is always one of the favourite outings for the kids. This is a brilliantly designed and run centre to explain the wonders of science and give kids a hands on science experience. There are some constant exhibits like the earthquake room and others that are regularly refreshed.

The fire show. She was very entertaining.

Collette attempting to defy gravity.

Making 12 volts work.

4 way air hockey is fast and furious.

David’s scout group were invited to lay a wreath at one of the Last Post Ceremonies at the War Memorial where each day a fallen soldier is remembered. It was a very moving event and as one of the staff commented to me, “For many this is probably their only funeral.”

Simpson and his donkey.

The War Memorial is constantly being refreshed and always worth a visit. If you haven’t spent much time in Canberra we can highly recommend doing so. It is a fascinating city.

Later this week we have 5 days in the Hunter Valley for a family reunion and wedding. Then finally flying out on Tuesday 30 June. Our next post will probably be from Prague on 2 July.

David & Collette