Escape the heat
With a classic Canberra heatwave upon us, the National Museum of Australia (NMA) has presented us with an effective, albeit out-of-the-box way to beat the heat. Go to Antarctica.
Journey to the coldest place on earth, walk amongst penguins in their natural habitat, gaze at the brilliant colours of the southern lights, see frozen ice fields from the cockpit of a soaring helicopter and land on remote glaciers.
In a ground-breaking first-ever 360-degree virtual reality depiction of the stunning southern continent, The Antarctica Experience is up and running at the NMA in its first east coast showing after debuting in Perth.
Equipped with headsets, visitors will marvel at the remarkable sights of Antarctica with simultaneous vision and theatrical surround sound.
NMA director Dr Mathew Trinca said he’s excited to bring this unique experience to Canberra.
“Virtual reality provides a unique opportunity to explore remote regions of the earth that are difficult to access for the average person,” said Dr Trinca.
“Without making the journey, there is no better way to experience Antarctica than through this new immersive documentary.”
Bookings are essential; nma.gov.au/Antarctica
Remembering Heath
Over 10 years since his tragic, premature passing, Heath Ledger endures as one of the most recognisable Australian faces in the entertainment industry.
After being displayed in his hometown of Perth, an exhibition showcasing the multifaceted nature of the supremely talented man, Heath Ledger: A Life in Pictures has been exhibited at the National Film and Sound Archive (NFSA) since August 2018, and will close on 10 February.
The exhibition features Ledger’s family and friends, with quotes, and candid photos and behind the scenes footage on display right alongside costumes, props and awards from his most famous works in direct contrast.
This will be the last chance to see this extensive collection in one place at one time, as the items will be returned to storage and the objects are unlikely to be displayed again in Australia in the current format.
An NFSA spokesperson said they’ve been delighted by the number of attendees so far, and with the 11th anniversary of Ledger’s passing coming up on 22 January, they would love to see a final influx of visitors in the final month to celebrate the person and his many achievements across film, arts and photography. Free admission; nfsa.gov.au
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