Commonwealth Park will bloom with colourful flowers when Floriade, Australia’s biggest celebration of spring, returns from 13 September to 12 October.
This year’s theme is Science and Nature, and the month-long festival will feature entertainment, art, music, food, and interactive experiences for all ages, capped by the after-dark spectacle of NightFest (2 to 5 October).
Chief Minister Andrew Barr called Floriade “a true community celebration”, which brings people together and attracts visitors from across the country.
This year’s presenting partner, real estate agency Allhomes, chose YWCA Canberra as the festival’s charity: it will receive funds raised at this year’s bulb dig.
“[YWCA Canberra’s] tireless work to support women and children to find safe and affordable housing is a cause we feel immensely passionate about, and it’s a privilege to stand alongside them in tackling this important issue in the community,” Allhomes chief commercial officer Belinda Sinclair said.
YWCA Canberra CEO Frances Crimmins said the charity was incredibly grateful.
“As a deeply rooted Canberra-based community organisation, this partnership just makes sense. Allhomes is about helping people find a place to call home and so are we. But for us, a home is more than just a roof over someone’s head, it’s about safety, dignity, and a chance to rebuild. Through this partnership, we’re creating real opportunities for women and families to thrive.”
Open day at new Acton emergency services station
An open day will be held at the new emergency services station in Acton from 10am to 2pm on Sunday 31 August. To register, visit http://bit.ly/45ch9yn
The station was completed in June, and crews moved in during July. ACT Fire & Rescue has responded to 245 incidents and ACT Ambulance Service to about 600 jobs from the new base.
Dr Marisa Paterson MLA, minister for police, fire and emergency services, said the station offers modern technology and better amenities for staff, and enhances their ability to serve the ACT community, particularly residents and businesses in the Acton and city precinct.
“I hope to see the community at the open day, where they can see the station’s features for themselves and learn a bit more about how ACTAS and ACTF&R serve the ACT.”
Grants for sports clubs
Canberra’s community sporting organisations can now apply for $4 million in ACT Government funding to upgrade facilities and strengthen local clubs, following a $1 million investment.
The 2026 Sport and Recreation Investment Scheme opens today. The Community Sport Facilities Program provides up to $1 million per year for new or upgraded facilities. The Club Enhancement Program provides up to $20,000 for equipment, training, and improvements to club capability, capacity and accessibility.
Applications close on 17 October.
Yvette Berry MLA, minister for sport and recreation, said: “Community sport is the heartbeat of Canberra, and these grants empower local clubs to create welcoming environments where people of all ages and abilities can enjoy all the benefits sport can offer.
“This investment is about more than just turf, bricks and mortar. It’s about building stronger, healthier communities. By supporting inclusive and sustainable spaces for sport and recreation, we’re ensuring every Canberran has the opportunity to stay active and connected.”
For more information, including grant categories and how to apply, visit the Sport and Recreation website at www.sport.act.gov.au/grants
