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Each February, something shifts in the heart of Canberra. Streets become meeting places. Food sparks conversation. Music drifts between stages and settles into memory. And for one long summer weekend, the city feels less like a thoroughfare and more like a shared living room – open, welcoming, and unmistakably ours.
across borders and generations. This year’s program spans continents and genres, weaving together tradition and innovation, memory and momentum.
energy choreography of Serendipity Dance Crew celebrating the global phenomenon of K-pop. Latin American showcases burst with rhythm and colour, while Xtreme Stars, a troupe of young adults with disabilities, bring confidence and joy to the stage. Multicultural youth take centre stage with Passion & Purpose, delivering Afroinspired dance with energy and pride.
In a world that often feels uncertain and divided, the National Multicultural Festival o ers a di erent rhythm. One shaped by generosity, curiosity and the simple power of coming together. From 6 to 8 February, the festival returns for its 28th year, transforming the city centre into a celebration of culture, creativity and connection – built by community, for community.
With more than 250 performances across 17 stages and venues, and over 260 food and cultural stalls, the festival is one of Australia’s largest multicultural events. But its true scale is measured not just in numbers, but in moments: shared meals, spontaneous dancing and conversations between strangers.
Stories told through music
Music is the festival’s heartbeat – a universal language that carries stories
Headlining the weekend is Troy Cassar-Daley, a proud Gumbaynggirr and Bundjalung artist whose songs speak of resilience, family and life on this land. L-FRESH The LION, one of Australia’s most influential hip hop voices, brings electrifying energy and messages of unity, identity, and hope. Closer to home, the MusicACT Takeover shines a light on Canberra’s local talent, with genre-bending sets from artists including Setwun, Citizen Kay and SAMATAR.
Audiences can experience the soulful storytelling of Charles Maimarosia from the Solomon Islands; the haunting long song and throat-singing of the Mongolian Association of Canberra; and the bold harmonies of Queen of Hearts, an all-female ensemble reimagining mariachi with confidence and flair. Music in Exile adds further depth, spotlighting migrant voices and refugee musicians whose work reflects both displacement and belonging.
Movement is woven throughout the weekend, from the lively swirl of The Scotsman’s Ceilidh to the high-
Laughter, expression and shared joy Connection is not always quiet. Sometimes it arrives through laughter, play and bold self-expression. Lip Syncs & Laughs blends comedy and drag, featuring Michael Hing’s sharp wit, Anisa Nandaula’s bold storytelling, Dyan Tai – the “Gaysian Empress of Sydney” - and a First Nations drag showcase celebrating Indigenous excellence on stage.
As night falls, the Multicultural Silent Disco transforms Glebe Park into a shared dance floor. Afro beats, Bollywood anthems, Latin rhythms, K-pop hits and Aussie classics coexist in one space – a joyful reminder that diversity doesn’t divide the crowd, it brings it together.
Part of the festival’s magic lies in discovery - turning a corner and encountering something unexpected.
The Italian Flag Throwers fill the precinct with centuries-old pageantry, colour and precision. Só Samba Canberra brings the spirit of Carnaval, while Canberra Dragon Dance lights up the city with Yuki the Snow Dragon, an illuminated spectacle blessing the crowds.
From Indonesia,the Borobudur Dance Troupe preserves traditional forms through graceful movement and vibrant costumes. Long-time favourites Kokoloco Dance Studio return with highenergy Latin, Brazilian and Caribbean dance, celebrating culture through community and motion.
Food remains one of the festival’s most powerful connectors – a sensory gateway to culture and memory. This year’s stalls o er a global feast that rewards curiosity and appetite in equal measure.
Follow the smoke to the BBQ trail, where Persian charcoal skewers, Greek souvlakia and Mongolian hot-stone Khorkhog sit alongside Samoan island plates and American low-and-slow brisket. Those with a sweet tooth can indulge in po ertjes dusted with sugar, Japanese taiyaki ice cream and Jamaica’s iconic Irie Dessert. To beat the summer heat, festivalgoers can cool o with a wide range of drinks, from Pacific otai and mango lassi to hibiscus
tea and sangria. Cypher Brewing Co, long-time supporters of the festival, return with the debut of Australian Native Bush Co, o ering a native bush iced tea inspired by Australian ingredients alongside their familiar craft brews.
Beyond the stalls, cooking demonstrations turn recipes into cultural conversations. Watch fiery Jamaican jerk chicken come to life, discover the delicate art of South Indian kuzhi paniyaram, and explore vibrant Thai flavours. Canberra chefs Mal Hanslow of Pilot and Will Moyle and Zoe Scott of Lunetta, alongside Lebanese-Australian chef and author Karima Hazim, share the technique, creativity and personal stories that make every dish more than a meal.
Culture, conversation and hands-on discovery
The festival invites audiences not just to watch, but to take part. Embassy Villages create spaces for storytelling, craft and connection, while Cultural Conversations and the Libraries ACT program brings author talks, language learning, bilingual story time and panels into the flow of the weekend.
Hands-on workshops encourage learning through doing. Try Chinese instruments, explore Afro-Peruvian rhythms, or step into the embrace of
Tango. Create vibrant rangoli designs, weave Māori flax flowers, or discover the artistry behind Tongan crafts. Martial arts sessions - from Tai Chi and Kung Fu basics to women’s self-defence and lion-dance drumming – add energy and depth.
Sport as a bridge Fields of Belonging celebrates the powerful role sport plays in bringing communities together. Across the festival, enjoy interactive sport moments for all ages, a panel discussion exploring multiculturalism and inclusion in sport, meet and greets with Raiders and Brumbies players, and the chance to see the Cricket World Cup up close — a powerful symbol of sport’s global reach and shared passion.
Showcases that celebrate identity
Signature showcases o er immersive journeys into culture and heritage. Experience the joy of African Gospel, journey to Sicily through folk music and dance, or celebrate Palestinian heritage with Dabkah and song. Witness the elegance of Vietnam’s UNESCOrecognised Nhã nhạc, alongside powerful First Nations music, dance and storytelling. The Pacific Islands Showcase bursts with colour, rhythm and island pride.
From Greek Glendi’s lively folk
dances to Africa to Australia’s Afrobeats and carnival flair, and the Bellydance Showcase’s rich MENAHT traditions, each performance is a celebration of identity and creativity.
Festivals are powerful classrooms, and the National Multicultural Festival o ers families places to learn through play and imagination. Glow & Tell, an enchanting UV-lit interactive theatre experience from Patch Theatre, invites children into a luminous world of storytelling. The Jungle City Collective Jamaican Dancehall Party invites kids to move, shine and feel the spirit of Dancehall. Across the weekend, creative workshops, hands-on crafts and bilingual story time o er gentle, welcoming ways for families to explore culture together.
Thoughtfully designed spaces across the festival support families of all kinds, including a Family Sanctuary for rest and play, a Seniors Lounge hosted by COTA, and the Sunflower Space at CMAG — a sensory-friendly environment welcoming people of all ages.
At 4pm on Saturday, the festival parade fills the streets with colour, music and movement. It is a moment of collective joy – where di erence becomes beauty, and diversity becomes strength.
At its heart, the National Multicultural Festival is about people – neighbours, families, elders, artists and volunteers – coming together to celebrate the cultures that shape Canberra. Whether you arrive hungry, dancing, listening, or simply looking for connections, the invitation is the same: come as you are and be part of something shared.
The festival transforms the city centre, with road closures and transport changes in place. Ongoing constructions will also a ect access. Plan ahead by checking public transport, parking and accessibility details at multiculturalfestival.com. au or scan the QR code to find the full program, maps and updates before you head in.
by GEORGIA CURRY
Rugby season came early to Canberra last weekend, but spectators weren’t in scarves and beanies, they wore snorkels and masks at Canberra’s first-ever women’s underwater rugby tournament.
“Valkyrie” Cup had a touch of the Canberra Raiders to it, although it’s doubtful whether Ethan Strange could hold his breath for more than 45
seconds, like underwater defender and goalie Nicola Maher.
Don’t let the 5.1-metre-deep footy field fool you, it is rugby, so there was full-on body contact. You just got soaked in the process.
At this all-female tournament, underwater spectators in goggles literally held their breath as Canberra Selkies scored, coming third in the tournament. That’s sweet victory considering Canberra just missed out on bronze at last year’s national competition.
Canberra Selkies (the Scottish word for seal) faced off against players from New Zealand, Queensland, NSW, Victoria and Tassie.
Their rugby style is nothing like the terrestrial Raiders’ game – the boys in green only pass the footy sideways, but these aqua-women also pass up and down in fast-paced 3D clashes.
“You grab people,” Nicola explained. “You can’t like pull their mask or snorkel or their caps, but if someone’s trying to swim away, you can grab their ankle. You can wrap your arm around their waist, you can grab their shoulders while your teammate tries to pull the ball off them. As long as it’s not actually
dangerous, you can pretty much do it.”
The all-important question: how do you pass a ball underwater? It’s full of salt water, which makes it sink to the bottom.
A six-woman team consists of two defenders, two forwards and two goalies (one is underwater and one is above water waiting for substitution).
“The only real similarity to rugby on land is that it’s full contact,” Nicola said. “Everything else is a little bit different, like we have a goal at the bottom. It looks like a giant wastepaper bin and our goalie lies on top of it. You’ve basically got to wrestle the goalie off to put the ball in the goal.”
Last weekend was the first time a women-only underwater rugby tournament has been held in the capital (previous tournaments have been held with mixed teams).
Spectators brought their togs, snorkel or goggles and had front-row seats in a roped-off swimming lane.
If you want to have a go at this niche sport, Canberra Selkies train every Monday and Wednesday night at Civic Pool, 6:30-8pm. Canberra Underwater Rugby is on Facebook.
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Firstly, well done to Albo on the appointment of longserving Secretary of Defence Greg Moriarty to replace Kevin Rudd as our ambassador in Washington. Greg is a great operator and a thorough professional. He is not a politician. I know him well, as in the early to mid-1980s he was one of the o cer cadets I instructed at OCTU at Bardia Barracks. So, on a personal note — well done, mate. You’ll do us proud.
I read recently in The Australian a disparaging article about the latest moves to unseat Andrew Barr’s government in favour of a Greens–Liberal coalition. Had I not been given the flick as Liberal leader before the 2008 election, I would have had no qualms about
seeking an arrangement with the Greens and o ering them ministries if need be.
So it came as no surprise to see Opposition Leader Mark Parton and Greens leader Shane Rattenbury almost come to an arrangement. Unfortunately, the Greens’ management killed the idea. The plan was to remove Barr in February and establish a new government with Liberal and Greens ministers. Shane would have served as Chief Minister first, before handing over to Mark after 18 months. No doubt there would have been a power-sharing arrangement, giving both parties the right to vote against each other in certain circumstances.
I can see Mark and Shane developing a close relationship, if they don’t already have one. Both are fundamentally pleasant, decent people. It’s worth remembering that there are very few truly ideological issues in local and state politics. Ultimately, it’s about providing good services to the community as e ciently and cost-e ectively as possible.
It may well have ended in tears after 12 to 18
months, but it would have been worth having a go. What we e ectively have now is a one-party dictatorship, and that’s bad for Canberra.
It’s a shame the local Greens hierarchy were so blinkered by their bias against the Liberals that they wouldn’t even give it a try. I agree that nationally it couldn’t work, given the federal Greens’ antisemitic positions and dangerous views on other issues, but locally it’s a very di erent kettle of fish.
By knocking it back, the Greens have shown they’re not open to new ideas and will only ever support a Labor government. That means local Labor can do as it likes, knowing the Greens will never countenance installing a government in which the local Liberals are prominent. Voters should remember this when the next election is held in 2028.
No one could ever accuse me of being pro-Green, but I reckon Shane may well have proved to be a reasonable Chief Minister, and I’m pretty sure Mark would have been a good one too. Alas, we’ll never know. Still, nice try guys.
This
by BERNIE RYAN
With this summer’s hot weather in full force, most pet owners are giving extra thought to how to keep their pets cool.
However, given that cheetahs, rhinoceroses, or giraffes can’t simply lie on the kitchen tiles, zookeepers at Canberra’s National Zoo and Aquarium need to get creative.
And given the ongoing heatwave forecast, the team are in full creative overdrive.
So, how do they keep their precious charges cool?
“All our animals have misting systems and cooling areas throughout summer, normally, but we’ve added in a few extra things,” Zookeeper and Wildlife Manager, Sophie Dentrinos, says.
“Lots of ice boxes and extra monitoring … in the cooler parts of the day, which includes adding Hydralyte to some of the animals’ ice blocks,”
she says.
One animal who is clearly grateful for this is Solo the Cheetah.
“Solo is particularly a fan of ice blocks. So today we gave him an ice block with frozen cat milk, …and animal’s blood,” says Zookeeper Lewis Webb.
And whilst Solo enjoys his ‘blood-sicles’, it’s understandably not everyone’s cup of cooling tea.
Ubuntu, the 15-year-old White Rhinoceros, prefers mud!
And thankfully, he has his own ‘mud wallow’ available to him 24/7.
There are, however, some places that Ubuntu can’t reach, so he was treated to an ‘all-over mud mask’ today.
Because, providing it’s the right ‘mud that sticks’, mud acts as a sunscreen, moisturiser and insect repellent for Ubuntu.
What else helps the animals in the heat?
Ginninderry Training + Employment Initiative
SPARK in partnership with North Belconnen Community Association Inc., The Y Canberra Region Early Learning Centres, The Canberra Institute of Technology (RTO Code: 0101), The Umbrella Collective and UnitingCare Kippax are delivering an accredited training program focussing on skills development, work experience and employment within the Early Childhood Education and Care sector.
Targeting people living across the Canberra region who are 17 years of age or older and who are not enrolled in high school/college. This SPARK program will provide participants with: Provide First Aid in an education and care setting (HLTAID012), Industry based work placements within the Early Childhood Education and Care sector, Real employment pathways within the sector for participants who meet the criteria, Upon successful completion, students will receive the Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CHC30121).
Commencing Tuesday 3 March 2026, this program will run 4 days per week (Monday - Thursday, 24 hours a week) during semester 1 (March-June). Work placements will take place with one of our partnering services, North Belconnen Community Association Inc (Flynn and Charnwood) and The Y Canberra Region Early Learning Centres (Holt, Belconnen and Holder). In semester 2 participants will have the option to continue with either full-time or part-time study.
Lewis says of Solo, “Typically, we visit and check up on him four or five times a day, but on days like today, …we’ll probably be up here six or seven times.
“He’s got some wood grass, rocks, pavement, concrete, but we will also make sure that his respiratory rate is fine, … and he’s seeking out that shade,” he says.
Some animals have pureed watermelon added to their ice blocks and those animals who love water, like sun bears and tigers, relish ‘getting under the hose’.
Shaba, the 13-year-old giraffe, also enjoys his kingsize ‘carrot ice buckets’.
Like the animals and zookeepers, the zookeeping team suggest we also adjust our routines and head to the zoo when it is coolest.
When
Tuesday 10 February 2026 11am – 1pm
Where
UnitingCare Kippax
Corner of Luke Street and Hardwick Cres, Holt
Costs
Places may be available under the ACT’s Fee-Free TAFE program for those that meet eligibility criteria. Fee-Free TAFE is a jointly funded initiative of the ACT and Australian governments.
To register for the information session please contact Mel on 1800 316 900, email spark@ ginninderry.com or scan the QR code.
by ZAC DE SILVA, AAP
Australian of the Year Katherine Bennell-Pegg plans to use her new platform to inspire young people to chase their dreams as she prepares for a full day of festivities in her new role.
The trailblazing space scientist received the honour at a ceremony in Canberra on Sunday night, recognised for her work as the first astronaut to train and fly under the Australian flag.
“As a kid, I used to lie on the dry grass in my backyard and gaze up at the stars in awe,” she said in her acceptance speech.
Ms Bennell-Pegg, who is still waiting to be called up for spaceflight, said she wanted to use the next 12 months to encourage people to pursue a career in science, technology, engineering or maths.
“I have not been to space yet, but I accept this recognition very gratefully as a mission of a different kind,” she said.
“To help open doors to space, to STEM, and to help others to see further.
“As humans venture around the moon once more, I hope that we’ll all look up, knowing that there is no aspiration too big for any Australian, or for Australia,” Ms Bennell-Pegg said.
Winners of the Australian of the Year awards have a jam-packed schedule for Australia Day. They’ll attend the national citizenship and flagraising ceremony in the morning on the shores of Canberra’s Lake Burley Griffin before travelling to Sydney for the Australia Day Live concert at the Opera House.
In the other categories, runner Nedd Brockmann won Young Australian of the Year for his 46-day feat of endurance running from Perth to Sydney to raise millions of dollars to fight homelessness.
Pioneering dementia researcher Henry Brodaty won Senior Australian of the Year for his work identifying cost-effective, targeted interventions to reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
Local Hero award recipient Frank Mitchell, a Whadjuk-Yued Noongar man from Western Australia, has created more than 70 upskilling roles for Indigenous people in the construction and electrical industries.
In honour of outgoing Australian of the Year Neale Daniher, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also announced the creation of the Neale Daniher MND Clinical Network, a government-funded
The first sections of track for Light Rail Stage 2A (Civic to Commonwealth Park) have been laid, connecting the current network with the 1.7 kilometre extension.
“The laying of tracks is a significant milestone for the project, which remains on schedule to deliver operational light rail services to Commonwealth Park in 2028,” transport minister Chris Steel MLA said.
While the Public Transport Association of Canberra also considers this marks a major milestone, the opposition and business leaders are concerned about the project’s impact.
The project costs $577 million and is jointly funded by the Australian and ACT Governments.
The ACT Government said Stage 2A was part of the biggest transformation of the city centre since selfgovernment, modernising Civic and making Canberra a more connected, liveable city for decades to come.
“Extending light rail is a key part of this plan, along with the new lyric theatre, the Canberra Aquatic Centre and the UNSW Canberra city campus,” Mr Barr
said. “These are once-in-a-generation investments that will make our city centre more accessible and create jobs and economic activity.”
However, Canberra Liberals Leader Mark Parton MLA, a staunch critic of light rail, said Labor’s announcement demonstrated their “poor planning and growing disruption in the city centre”.
“Local businesses are losing customers due to reduced parking, confusing detours and prolonged construction, while access to essential services has become harder for workers, older Canberrans, and people with disabilities,” Mr Parton said.
“Infrastructure matters, but so does delivery. Canberrans deserve better coordination, clear timelines and real support for businesses bearing the cost of this mismanaged project under this ACT Labor Government.”
Canberra Business Chamber CEO Greg Harford said the extension would ultimately “add significant amenity to the city when completed”, but was concerned “the short-term disruption is having a real
impact on business”.
The Chamber has called for financial support for businesses seriously affected by a drop-off in customers.
Independent MLA Thomas Emerson has repeatedly called for means-tested rates relief for small businesses affected by the huge amount of construction happening in the city.
“Those calls need to be answered if we want to see a thriving CBD on the other side of this project,” Mr Emerson said. “Most people understand the disruptions, but expect the Government to be proactive in mitigating the impacts as much as possible. Unfortunately, the small business owners I’m hearing from feel that they’ve instead been hung out to dry.”
Mr Harford encouraged Canberrans to support local businesses throughout the construction period: “The city centre remains open for business, and there is still carparking available.”
Mr Steel acknowledged that construction works were disruptive, and thanked the community for its patience during the construction blitz and for using bus replacement services. The government will update the public about further construction work on Northbourne Avenue.
by BERNIE RYAN
This February, Palliative Care ACT needs your help to support more Canberrans living with a terminal illness, and their families.
Palliative Care ACT is a representative voice for palliative care in the Australian Capital Territory.
Formed in 1985, they are a non-government, notfor-profit community-based organisation, registered charity and a founding member of the national peak body, Palliative Care Australia.
“Palliative Care ACT is here for people living with a life-limiting condition or illness, and for the families and carers around them. We’re about people first — listening, supporting, and walking alongside individuals in ways that feel kind, respectful and very human,” says CEO of Palliative Care ACT, Paul Arztenhofer.
Some may believe that palliative care support, in its various forms, is only accessible during the final days of someone’s life. However, Mr Arztenhofer says that this is not the case.
“There’s a common misconception that palliative care is only about the final stages of illness, but for us it’s about living. It’s about comfort, connection, choice, and quality of life, at whatever stage someone finds themselves,” he says.
To help fund services such as the ongoing training of volunteers and the completion of the new premises for ‘Leo’s Place’, a respite ‘home away from home’ facility, there are some unique opportunities starting in February to enjoy locally.
“Our events are designed to be welcoming, fun and inclusive. They give people a chance to connect, share a laugh, learn something new and engage with palliative care in a way that feels relaxed and accessible, no matter where they’re at,” says Mr Arztenhofer.
Movie Night – Wuthering Heights - Palace
Electric Cinemas: Thursday 12 February, 6pm
A great opportunity for bonus Valentine’s Day brownie points! Mark the start of your Valentine’s Day weekend with a famous love story of passion and obsession.
Trivia on the Lake: Sunday 22 February, 2-5pm
A fun Sunday afternoon trivia cruise on Lake Burley Griffin, hosted by Love Boats Canberra. Enjoy hosted trivia, finger food, licenced bar, great prizes and stunning views — all while supporting PCACT. Come alone and join a team, or BYO team of 4! Workshops: 7 Keys for Navigating a Life-Changing Diagnosis: Wednesday 4 March
This practical and supportive workshop includes a workbook valued at $36.95. Sessions run 6–9pm and will be recurring throughout the year.
Through these events, your support will help Palliative Care ACT to give the gift of ‘quality of life’, to more people as they need it.
This might include relief from pain and other distressing symptoms, a support system to help people live as actively as possible until death and help for the family during a loved one’s illness and their own bereavement.
“Funds raised go straight back into supporting people in our community through education, advocacy, volunteer programs, and practical support. Every event helps us reach more people, earlier, and in ways that genuinely make a difference,” says Mr Arztenhofer.
To learn more about Palliative Care ACT and its upcoming events, visit pallcareact.org.au
CHILDREN UNDER6 GETIN FREE!
20 &
21
8.30AM - 10.00PM
22 FEB 8.30AM - 6.30PM
by GEORGIA CURRY
On a hot Canberra summer night 12 years ago, the song Gonna Make You Sweat by C+C Music Factory blasted out from a scout hall in Ainslie for the ACT’s first ever No Lights No Lycra – a darkened room for people to dance without inhibition.
Cut to 2026, No Lights No Lycra (NLNL) North Canberra is still grooving, so we thought we’d educate the uninitiated about the act of literally dancing like noone’s watching.
Sure, you could dance at home with the lights down like Tom Cruise in Risky Business, but there’s something exhilarating about dancing with complete abandon next to a bunch of strangers in the dark.
These strangers aren’t strange though – I can personally vouch for the Friday-night regulars that include mild-mannered public servants, retirees, uni students, and mums and dads, with ages ranging from nine (kids are free) to 90.
It can’t be that weird because millions of people attend NLNL globally.
The best part is, you don’t need a date, you don’t need alcohol for courage and you don’t need a new outfit.
And despite the title of “No Lights No Lycra”, you can actually wear spandex if you want to. In fact, NLNL co-host Miffany Callan prefers activewear and bare feet whilst cutting loose.
Miffany’s been hosting NLNL North Canberra at Canberra
Dance Theatre for almost seven years and she’s been told by regulars it’s “the most fun you can have sober”.
“When you dance in the dark, the music takes over and you can dance like no-one is watching –because no-one is,” she said.
Miffany’s favourite dance move when the lights are off is the hiphop “running man” (Google it). When the lights are on, however, she admits she’s more reserved “as it feels like you are on display”. Co-host Heather Wallace, who prefers wearing black sequined
palazzo pants, is responsible each year for Duran Duran Appreciation Day.
“That’s a real thing, I didn’t make it up,” she said. “I dance in supermarket aisles when my favourite songs come on the radio. I have no hesitation busting out some moves with the lights up high.
“What I love about dancing at the Canberra Dance Theatre is the incredible dance floor. It’s a proper dance studio and the panelled floor is so well sprung that I can actually jump up and down –which is no mean feat at my age.”
Heather attended Canberra’s inaugural NLNL in Ainslie 12 years ago and when she lived in Melbourne, she attended NLNL in Brighton (NLNL originated in Melbourne in 2009, with just five people and the first ever NLNL song was Rien de Rien by Edith Piath).
“I’m obviously prejudiced but I love our NLNL North Canberra and Friday night is the perfect time to have it,” she said. “You get to wind down from the week and kick off the weekend with a dance.”
If you need more convincing to bust out spontaneous, unrestrained dancing, think of the post-holiday, calorie-busting cardio.
There’s a small fee of $10 (studio hire and insurance) but that’s a small price to pay for unbridled self expression – plus there’s free lollies (for energy).
NLNL North Canberra is on Facebook and runs every Friday 8pm at Canberra Dance Theatrre, 1 Kingsley Street Acton. NLNL Canberra South is on Facebook and runs every Thursday 7:30pm at Weston.
SkinMedics on Cohen Street Unit 2, 34-42 Cohen Street Belconnen, 2617 reception@ skinmedicsACT.com.au
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Proven track record in the management of Skin Cancer, lumps & bumps/ cysts/ lipomas and most things in between.
SKIN CHECKS (full body & spot check & total body photography)
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LUMPS & BUMPS MANAGEMENT (cysts, lipomas, skin tags, anal skin tags, any other lesions)
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by GENEVIEVE JACOBS AM
It’s been a great summer, and now life begins again in the national capital. It’s time for work, school and thinking about your community.
The Canberra Day Appeal starts the year by asking how we can make this city a better and fairer place for everyone.
Led by the ACT’s community foundation, Hands Across Canberra, the Canberra Day Appeal involves more than 80 local charities, all working to give local people a hand.
They’re helping families grappling with food insecurity, people living with disabilities or escaping violence. Often, these people are among the 40,000 Canberrans living in poverty.
The charities we work with are all local too. Many are small, and all operate here in our hometown. So, when you donate to a charity close to your heart during the Canberra Day Appeal, you’re likely to be helping neighbours, perhaps families whose kids are at school with yours.
I believe this is one of the most generous communities in Australia. We know Canberrans volunteer more than anyone else and our per capita giving is among the highest in Australia.
So please, let’s give where we live between this February and March. Visit canberraday.org.au, donate to a cause you care about, and we’ll match your donation up to $2500 for each participating charity, effectively doubling your gift.
If you can’t decide where to give, a donation to Hands Across Canberra will be distributed across all our charity partners.
You can also sign up for the Canberra Day Fun Run on March 9, or support someone who is running with a donation.
The beauty of the Appeal is that it’s up to you. You can donate, run or walk, support a friend, or simply pick a charity and give locally. We can all build a better Canberra together. www.canberraday.org.au
GIVIT donation of the week: Vouchers for kitchen appliance pack
GIVIT is an ACT Government partner working with an organisation that provides support to women, children and families experiencing a crisis. They are seeking support for a family that is relocating after escaping domestic violence. This parent is preparing to move into stable housing with her kids after escaping domestic violence. One of her children has cerebral palsy, and this parent is working hard to secure a safe new home for their wellbeing. Because of the costs associated with relocation, this parent is experiencing financial stress and require support for white goods and other essential items for the home. This organisation is seeking the donation of vouchers to purchase a kitchen appliance pack to help them settle into their new home as they begin a new life free from violence. Generous Canberrans can donate vouchers for kitchen appliances or fund their purchase. 100% of your financial donation will be used to purchase what’s needed. To help please visit: GIVIT.org.au/what’s-needed, search;
Location State: ‘ACT’, Keywords: ‘kitchen appliance pack’ and Suburb: ‘Yarralumla, 2600’.
Free Sahaja Yoga meditation sessions will be held every Tuesday in February and March 2026 (nine sessions), 10–11am, at the Salthouse Community Centre, Haig Park, Henty Street, Braddon. These sessions focus on thoughtless awareness meditation and involve no physical exercises. All Sahaja Yoga programs are free. More ACT programs at meditatecanberra.com.au.
community noticeboard email news@newstimemedia.com.au with ‘HYH’ in the subject field
The Canberra Branch of the Country Women’s Association of NSW will begin 2026 with a Welcome to the Year Service on Friday 6 February, 12:30pm, at the CWA Rooms, 8 Barry Drive, Canberra City. The day starts earlier with a Friendship and Craft session from 10am, offering a relaxed chance to reconnect, create and meet new faces. The Canberra Branch meets on the first Friday of each month for friendship and craft activities, and on the second Friday for business meetings. Members, guests and those curious about joining are warmly invited. Enquiries: cwacanberra@gmail.com or 6230 1347 (email preferred).
The Canberra Jung Society’s next meeting will be held on Friday 6 February, featuring Dr Stephani Stephens presenting The Barbie Question. Using the film Barbie as a starting point, the talk explores Jung’s ideas about the unconscious, ancestry and the search for inner peace. Dr Stephens is a Jungian-oriented psychotherapist and a lecturer in counselling at the University of Canberra. Guests are welcome from 7:30pm for music, library browsing, a cuppa and chat, with the presentation at 8pm, followed by supper and discussion until 10pm. Venue: MacKillop House, 50 Archibald Street, Lyneham. Cost $20 (concession $15). Details: canberrajungsociety.org.au
Ingredients
1 tbs olive oil
2 x 1cm thick slices bacon
2 thick pork sausages
400g tin cannellini beans
100ml chicken stock
200ml tomato passata
2 free range eggs
2 tbs fresh brioche breadcrumbs
1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
Method
Preheat the oven to 200C.
Place a heavy based frying pan over a high heat, add the olive oil. When the oil is hot, cook the spec and sausages, for 2-3 minutes or until
golden brown on all sides. Remove and cut both the spec and the sausage in half through the middle. Return the pan to the heat and add drained cannellini beans, pour in the stock and bring to the boil. Then stir in the tomato passata and bring back to the boil. Add the sausage and speck back to the pan.
Divide the sausage and bean mixture between two 2-cup capacity ovenproof dishes. Carefully crack an egg into the centre of each dish. Sprinkle over breadcrumbs and thyme leaves and sprigs.
Bake the cassoulet for 10-12 minutes or until the egg whites have set and the yolks are still runny, or continue to cook until the eggs are to your liking. Serve.
Enlighten Festival has unveiled its full 2026 program, bringing world premieres, celebrated artists and new after-dark experiences to Canberra across 11 nights, from 27 February to 9 March.
The festival will feature six brand-new projection artworks across Canberra’s National Cultural Institutions, alongside live music, immersive installations and a growing range of evening events designed to encourage locals and visitors to
explore the city after dark.
At the heart of Enlighten is always the Illuminations, featuring stunning artworks projected onto some of Canberra’s iconic buildings in the National Triangle. The 2026 lineup includes artists Kaylene Whiskey, Yarrenyty Arltere Artists, Grace Kemarre Robinya, Sam Wallman and Philip Bunting, alongside Canberra artists Eleanor and Giovanni.
The Festival Hub will again host live music every night in a relaxed, all-ages setting, with performances by Murray and the Movers, led by Murray Cook, Indigenous artists Tjaka and Lemonise, and local favourites Koebi Faumui, Archie and Divine Devilles. The hub will also debut new immersive artworks and roaming performances, including world premieres Serendipity by Atelier Sisu and Glitch Monument by Collide Public Art.
wellness events and contemporary art installations.
Enlighten: The Night Shift will offer rare afterhours access to Canberra’s cultural institutions, inviting audiences to experience familiar spaces in new ways through curated evening programs. Highlights include degustation dining at Parliament House, interactive installations at the Museum of Australian Democracy and exhibitions at the National Portrait Gallery.
Symphony in the Park will return to Commonwealth Park as a free outdoor concert, bringing together Mark Seymour of Hunters & Collectors and the Canberra Symphony Orchestra for a world premiere performance. Entry is free, with pre-registration required.
With the full program now announced, Enlighten Festival 2026 offers a mix of new works and returning favourites across Canberra, giving locals and visitors plenty of reasons to experience the capital at its brightest.
Beyond the National Triangle, Enlighten: BEYOND expands the festival footprint with ticketed experiences across the city, including projections at Mt Stromlo Observatory, Wild Night Zooventure at the National Zoo & Aquarium, creative workshops,
Tickets for select events are now on sale, with full program details available at enlightencanberra.com.
Saturday 23 May 2026
Day Trip to Sydney
Includes return private coach from Canberra, Stalls seating at Capitol Theatre, Sydney @ $320.00 per person
06 June 2026
Entertainment Quarter, Moore Park
Includes return private coach from Canberra, Premium Seating at Entertainment Quarter
$320.00 per adult
$300.00 per child – up to 12 years
09 – 10 April 2026
Sydney Opera House
Includes return
25 – 26 September 2026
Sydney Opera House
Includes return private coach from Canberra, overnight at The Grace Hotel, Reserve seating at Sydney Opera House, breakfast & Sydney Harbour Lunch Cruise @ $999.00 per person twin share @ $1149.00 solo room
This week, Jeff Popple reviews three books to set you on the right path in 2026! More of Jeff’s reviews can be found on his blog: murdermayhemandlongdogs.com
Hachette, $34.99
The holiday season is over and now is the time to put those resolutions into action! Bec Wilson’s How to Have an Epic Retirement is a ‘must read’ for anyone who is planning their retirement or has taken the big step and finished work. Bec is a well-known expert in modern retirement who runs a popular podcast and social media pages, and this book is a comprehensive guide to how to make the most out of your retirement. From how to use your time to money management, health, happiness, fulfilment, travel and your home, Bec covers all the bases with informed, practical advice. A great book!
Macmillan, $36.99
Rory Warnock is a personable wellness coach who has worked with a number of global organisations. In Unlock Your Breath, he shares his insights into the importance of breathwork. Drawing on personal experience as a coach and ultramarathon runner, and the latest scientific research, he provides practical advice on how to develop and adapt breathwork techniques for different aspects of your life. According to Warnock, better breathwork can help you sleep better, relieve stress, improve fitness, boost focus and uplift your mood. Complete with exercises and techniques, Unlock Your Breath could be the guide you need to lift your performance in 2026.
by Nadia Narain & Katia Narain Phillips Penguin, $36.99
Glimmers are those tiny, unexpected moments in life that bring you a sense of peace, calm and safety. They feel magical, but are actually a physical response that is rooted in your nervous system. They helsp to ground us in the present moment and have the power to improve moods, mental health and wellbeing. In Glimmers, sisters Nadia and Katia draw on their experience in nervous-system healing to suggest practices and tools to enable readers to tune into the glimmers that are around them and benefit from feeling good. Simply written with practical examples, it could help to get you back on track.
Canberra’s mornings will take on a familiar magical glow when the Canberra Balloon Spectacular returns from Saturday 14 March to Sunday 22 March.
While restoration works continue around John Dunmore Lang Place, the much-loved festival will be based at Patrick White Lawns behind the National Library. As the only hot air balloon festival in the world to take flight over a national capital, the Spectacular remains one of Canberra’s most iconic annual events.
Weather permitting, up to 40 balloons will lift off at sunrise each morning, with inflation beginning from around 6am and launches typically taking place between 6:30 and 7am. Visitors can arrive early to wander among the balloons as they slowly fill with air, creating a striking and immersive experience that has become a favourite for photographers and families alike.
A standout feature for 2026 will be the
Canberra debut of Finley the Turtle, a specialshaped balloon making his first appearance in Australia. Travelling from the UK, Finley recently completed his maiden flight in Qatar, and owner Chris Freeman hopes the balloon’s visit to Canberra will also help raise awareness around turtle conservation efforts across the country.
Food vendors will be on site each morning serving hot breakfasts and fresh coffee, giving visitors the chance to enjoy a slow start to the day as the balloons rise above the lake and city skyline.
Entry to the Canberra Balloon Spectacular is free, and daily flight updates will be published from 6am each morning on canberraballoonspectacular.com and via EventsACT social media channels. While all flights are dependent on suitable weather conditions, organisers note that even on nonflying mornings, balloons may still inflate and tether on the ground.
Sunday 15th & Monday 16th February 2026
On display will be the latest resort style developments as well as established villages from many different organisations, all offering a wide range of services & facilities, sizes, prices and locations. This is a wonderful opportunity to ask questions and gather information about many different retirement communities, all under one roof with free admission.
Winter in Perisher is in high demand. Secure your stay today! Already dreaming of the snow?
Summer in Perisher is calm and expansive, defined by wildflower-lined trails, crisp alpine air, and long days exploring Australia’s highest landscapes. At the heart of the valley, The Stables Resort Perisher offers an elevated alpine retreat, with thoughtfully designed studios, lofts, and family chalets that balance comfort with effortless style.
This season, guests can experience the iconic Snowies Alpine Walk with ease through The Stables’ Snowies Alpine Walk Transfer Package, available as 3- or 5-day options. Designed to let you walk by day and return each evening to warm hospitality and relaxed alpine comfort, the package takes care of all logistics so you can focus on the journey.
BOOK DIRECT & SAVE 10% WHEN BOOKING 2+ NIGHTS
by BERNIE RYAN
If your partner might enjoy a different kind of treat this Valentine’s Day and has a penchant for the retro and collectable, Collect-AVerse: Canberra might earn you some quirky brownie points.
Brought to you by Collect-AVerse, Dee’s Comics and Geek Expo, Collect-A-Verse is a one-day expo celebrating cards, comics, collectibles, and pop culture.
Discover Pokémon cards, comics, toys, retro games, Funko Pops, and more, plus D&D, MTG Learn to Play, and a Pokémon TCG Tournament.
Co-organiser and owner of Dees Comics Canberra, Brendon Dann, says that as he and his business partner for Geek Expo Australia, and the Geek Markets, Daniel Rathbone, are avid collectors themselves, they are passionate about providing fun opportunities for like-minded collectors.
“I love comics and Daniel loves Lego, so we wanted to bring people together who also enjoy collecting,” he says.
Through their joint venture, Geek Expo, the pair also host the local Geek Market events in Canberra two to three times a year.
“The Geek Markets are a celebration and festival of all things pop culture and all things creative and collectable. It’s a much broader scope than Collect-A-Verse,” says Mr Dann.
“The idea with Collect-A-Verse is to focus on some of the genres and subcultures that exist within modern pop culture. For example, cosplay, comics, and creating unique figures and toys. We wanted to narrow it down to the most coveted collections people have at home.”
Mr Dann and Mr Rathbone will provide a curated shopping
experience with designated areas for certain items, to make locating unique treasures easier.
“There will be between 50-60 vendors offering their wares on the day. These vendors are both local or from larger regions and cities, including Sydney and Wollongong,” says Mr Rathbone.
The results of the Pokémon tournament on the day will also count toward the Pokémon World Tournament!
“We are partnering with a Pokémon retailer, Colosseum of Collectables, who are bringing an official Pokémon judge, so that the tournament will be part of the national league”
Can people take their own collectables to sell or trade?
“Yes. People can also bring their collectables in,” says Mr Dann.
“Some vendors are happy to trade or buy. And if you have a comic, do bring it in!”.
Dees Comics is happy to reward whoever brings in the lowest value comic and trades their way up to a higher value item.
“Come and see me at the Dees Comics stall and I will happily issue an extra prize to the person who secures the most successful trade on the day”, says Mr Dann.
Located in the Ann Harding Conference Centre Bruce, on Saturday Feb 14 from 9am to 4pm.
Arrive early for first picks or drop in later and just enjoy the atmosphere.
Tickets available via eventbrite. com.au.
Early Entry $20 (9–10:30am)
General $10 (10:30am–2pm)
Free entry from 2pm
Kids 0–12 free with paying adult.
Collect-A-Verse is your gateway to the ‘Collectiverse’.
BOOK YOUR TICKETS HERE:
CANBERRA WEEKLY READERS GET $10 OFF USE CODE CWVDAY
YOU’RE INVITED TO THE CURATED VALENTINE’S DAY SINGLES SOIRÉE!
SATURDAY 14 FEBRUARY / 6:30PM / THE CANBERRA REX HOTEL / ALL AGES WELCOME
If you’ve ever thought, “I want to meet people… but I’m tired of dating apps, awkward first dates and forced conversations,” you’re not alone.
So many Canberrans tell us the same thing. It’s not that there aren’t great people here, it’s just become harder to connect. Swiping feels disposable. Walking into events alone can feel intimidating. And most singles events put pressure on finding “the one,” instead of simply having a great night out.
That’s exactly why Curated exists.
Since launching, hundreds of Canberrans have come through Curated events. Many have formed genuine friendships. Many have found love. But the best part? Seeing people arrive a little nervous and leave laughing, exchanging numbers, making plans and feeling like they actually belong.
This Valentine’s Day, we’re hosting our biggest singles event yet! The Rex Hotel
ballroom will be filled with singles for a night of champagne, dancing, beautiful food, live music and a room full of good humans craving the same thing, real connection
We know rocking up alone to a singles event can feel scary, so we do things differently. Before the event, you’ll be added to pre-event WhatsApp group chats — one for the ladies and one for the men. We also host ladies-only and men-only pre-event meet-ups, so you can connect in a relaxed way and walk into the main event already knowing a few friendly faces. You won’t be doing this alone. And if it feels better to come with someone, nonsingle support people are welcome too.
There’s no pressure to find “the one.” Just come dressed up, enjoy a great night out, meet new people and see what unfolds. You might leave with new friends. You might meet someone special. Either way, you’ll leave feeling glad you came!
YOUR TICKET INCLUDES:
Entry to Canberra’s biggest singles event at the Rex Hotel
4 Hour premium drinks package including champagne, beer, wine and soft drinks
Canapés, grazing table and food platters
Live band, entertainment and dancing all night
Brazilian Samba performance by Kokoloco Dance Studio
Access to pre-event WhatsApp group chats and pre-event meet-up so you don’t walk into the event feeling alone
Come be part of the growing Curated community. Everyone is welcome here! We don’t just host singles events, we also create community events that help people make friends, while supporting small local businesses and charities.
Bentleys Hair of Canberra in Jamison has welcomed an exciting new addition to the team, with internationally experienced hairdresser Roberto Pozzato already making his mark at the salon.
Roberto’s arrival has added another layer of expertise to the team at Bentleys, a centrally located Macquarie salon long known for its warm, professional approach and exclusive use of Schwarzkopf Professional products.
With more than a decade of experience working with renowned global brand Toni&Guy in London and Sydney, Roberto brings a depth of technical skill, creativity and education-focused passion that has
quickly resonated with both clients and colleagues.
“I worked with Toni&Guy for over 10 years,” Roberto says. “I started in London and then spent seven years in Sydney. I was also the National Educator for the company, so my role was teaching cutting and styling internally and travelling around Australia educating.”
That education background has been central to Roberto’s career. Along the way, he has worked on major fashion events including London Fashion Week, collaborated on high-profile campaigns, and been recognised through prestigious industry awards, such as being shortlisted for Men’s Hairdresser of the Year at the Australian Hair Fashion Awards.
Despite the international highlights, Roberto says his passion for hairdressing began early.
“I started when I was 14 years old. I’ve never done any other job in my life,” he says. “I used to cut my own hair and then my friends’ hair. Once I realised I was good at it, I went to school, got my qualification and never stopped.”
Since joining Bentleys, Roberto says the move to Canberra has been a positive and grounding experience, thanks largely to salon owner and awardwinning businesswoman June Irving and the team around her.
“They made me feel at home straight away,” he says. “This is the first time I’ve felt appreciated not just for my skills, but for who I am as a person. That means everything to me.”
Roberto’s arrival has been warmly received at Bentleys, where he has quickly found his place within the team and built a strong following among clients.
For Roberto, a visit to the salon should be about more than just a haircut for his clients.
“My service is more an experience than just an appointment,” he says. “I focus on every detail, from how you’re greeted and how you sit, to how the cape is put on and how you leave the salon. Clients should walk out feeling like a million dollars.”
As he settles into Canberra, Roberto says the feedback so far has been overwhelmingly positive.
“When an 80-year-old woman tells you it’s the best haircut of her life, that’s the biggest compliment,” he says. “They’ve had a lot of haircuts.”
Visit Roberto and the team at Bentleys Hair of Canberra in Jamison Plaza, or contact the salon on (02) 6251 2681 to book. You can also follow Roberto’s work and updates on Instagram at @roberto_pozzato_ hairdressing.
DR VIVIENNE LEWIS ASSISTANT PROFESSOR AND CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST AT UNIVERSITY OF CANBERRA
If there were a single formula for happiness, we’d all be following it. But happiness isn’t something we arrive at and stay in forever, it’s shaped by the small, repeated choices we make each day. From a clinical psychology perspective, wellbeing isn’t about always feeling good, it’s about building a life that feels meaningful, manageable, and connected, even when things are hard.
Here are five evidence-based tips I regularly share with clients, and try to practise myself, that genuinely support a happier life.
1. Prioritise connection over perfection
Strong relationships are one of the most reliable predictors of happiness. Not perfect relationships,
just real ones. Connection might look like having co ee with a friend, walking your dog, chatting with a neighbour, or feeling understood by a colleague. We don’t need to have our lives together to be worthy of connection. In fact, letting people see us as we are often deepens relationships and increases our sense of belonging.
2. Be kind to your mind
Most of us have a very harsh inner critic. We speak to ourselves in ways we would never speak to someone we care about. While self-criticism can feel motivating, psychologically it tends to increase anxiety, shame, and low mood. A happier life is built on self-compassion, noticing when you’re struggling and responding with understanding rather than judgment.
3. Look after your body
Mental health and physical health are deeply connected. Regular meals, adequate sleep, movement, and time outdoors all support emotional wellbeing. Importantly, caring for your body doesn’t need to be extreme or punishing. Gentle, consistent
care is far more protective than rigid rules. Walking in nature, stretching, swimming, or simply resting when you’re exhausted all count.
4. Accept what you can’t control
A large amount of emotional distress comes from fighting reality, replaying the past, worrying about the future, or wishing people and situations were di erent. Psychological wellbeing improves when we learn to distinguish between what we can influence and what we can’t. Acceptance isn’t giving up; it’s freeing up energy to focus on what matters now. Sometimes peace comes not from changing circumstances, but from changing how we relate to them.
5. Build meaning, not just pleasure
Happiness isn’t just about feeling good, it’s about feeling that life has purpose. Pleasure is important, but it’s often short-lived. Meaning sustains us through di cult times. Meaning can come from relationships, work, caregiving, creativity, volunteering, faith, or living in line with your values. Ask yourself: What matters to me? And how can I take a small step toward that this week?
www.michellerichardshearing.com.au
If you’re experiencing hearing di culties or simply want to stay on top of your hearing health, Michelle Richards Hearing o ers the trusted, personalised care you’ve been looking for — right here in Canberra.
Proudly independent and locally owned, Michelle Richards Hearing is not part of a chain or franchise. That means you receive genuine advice, no sales pressure, just hearing solutions tailored to your unique lifestyle and needs.
Michelle Richards, a highly experienced Audiometrist with over 20 years of clinical expertise in adult hearing rehabilitation, is passionate about supporting people of all ages to live better through better hearing.
Michelle stays at the forefront of audiological innovation, o ering the latest hearing aid technology including discreet, rechargeable, and AI-powered options.
Whether you need a comprehensive hearing assessment, tinnitus support, hearing protection, or hearing aids, Michelle delivers expert care with a warm, community-focused approach.
Conveniently located in Dickson, Michelle Richards Hearing welcomes private, pension, DVA and Hearing Services Program (HSP) clients. Home visits are also available for those who are unable to travel.
by ZAC DE SILVA
Dementia researcher Henry Brodaty thinks people should spend more time thinking about their head in the battle against dementia.
“People think more about their hair than what’s underneath,” he said.
The pioneering scientist, whose research has touched countless lives, has shown simple lifestyle changes can help delay the onset of dementia.
For his world-leading work, he’s been named Senior Australian of the Year for 2026.
Professor Brodaty said changes to a person’s diet and exercise routine could make a real difference to their likelihood of developing the brain condition.
“Over 430,000 Australians and over a million family carers
are touched by dementia,” he said while accepting his award at a ceremony at the National Arboretum in Canberra.
“Direct and indirect costs total over $18 billion.
“Almost half the cost of dementia is caused by preventable factors that we can modify in our lifestyle,” Prof Brodaty said.
The pioneering professor called for a national brain health program to help make people aware of the steps they can take to prevent dementia.
“We need the slip slop slap of brain health, and this needs to be a whole-of-life approach,” he said.
“The earlier we start, the better.”
At just 52 years old, Prof Brodaty’s father was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease.
Seven years later, his dad died.
That spurred Prof Brodaty, then a psychiatrist focused on depression, to dedicate his life to researching what at the time was a poorly understood condition.
In 1985, Prof Brodaty established one of the nation’s first memory clinics, and went on to develop a dementia screening procedure which is now used around the world.
He also led a national training program for GPs, helping more than 5,000 doctors better understand the complex neurological condition, and has published more than 400 papers and book chapters.
Prof Brodaty founded the Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing in 2012, leading crucial research which improved the medical community’s understanding of dementia risk and prevention techniques.
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by JENNIFER DUDLEY-NICHOLSON, AAP
Before seeing a doctor about a rash, sleeping issue or chronic heart condition, have you considered asking a chatbot for advice?
It is the suggestion of leading artificial intelligence company OpenAI, which has flagged plans to launch a dedicated health service with Australian users as possible candidates for its trial.
The announcement comes with the company revealing its ChatGPT tool handles more than 230 million health-related questions every day from more than 40 million individuals.
AI researchers say a fully-scaled launch is all but inevitable due to overwhelming consumer demand but medical experts are split on its potential impact.
While some say increasing medical literacy via customised, computer-generated responses could prove beneficial for patients, others warn
too little is known about the accuracy of its advice and its regulation and privacy protections.
OpenAI revealed plans for ChatGPT Health early in January, describing it as a complementary service to analyse medical data and advise on what to ask a doctor or what to eat and how to exercise.
“Health is designed to support, not replace, medical care,” the company said in a statement.
“Instead, it helps you navigate everyday questions and understand patterns over time - not just moments of illness - so you can feel more informed and prepared for important medical conversations.”
Users will be able to link their records from services such as Apple Health, MyFitnessPal, Peloton and Weight Watchers to ChatGPT, in addition to uploading raw data from medical scans and tests.
Australians could be included in a small group of early testers, although the service is
not compatible with the government’s My Health Record platform.
Artificial intelligence’s move into the health field is a natural extension of its current offerings, says UNSW AI Institute chief scientist Toby Walsh, given so many people are already turning to chatbots to answer intimate questions.
“People have been uploading their X-rays, their blood tests, everything into it,” he says.
“It makes sense, therefore, to try and do it in a better, more formalised way where it knows something about your health history so it doesn’t just give you generic responses but tries to give you specific, personalised, tailored advice.”
Using artificial intelligence to crunch raw health data, identify health trends, develop a list of probing questions or summarise symptoms for a doctor’s visit could help users, Prof Walsh says.
But generative AI technology is relatively new and untested in the health industry and could produce concerning results.
“There’s huge amounts of money in health –it’s one of the biggest businesses around – and these tools can do useful stuff,” he says.
“There’s a useful side to this but I fear, as ever, we’re rushing into it.”
For health industry consultant and general practitioner Joe Kosterich, the technology and concerns around it feel familiar.
“It reminds me of when Google first got big and everyone was concerned about ‘Dr Google’,” he says.
“Ultimately, AI extracts from what is already online and it does it much more efficiently than a Google search and a Google search was much more efficient than going to an old-fashioned medical encyclopedia.”
Stopping AI entering the health industry would be impossible, Dr Kosterich says, given its rapid development and spread through a wide range of industries.
But the technology could benefit patients’ medical literacy and has the potential to provide helpful, supplemental advice about managing ailments between doctor visits.
“For the vast majority of people, it’s probably going to be quite useful - they can learn a bit more about their condition and how to manage it,” he says.
“However, nobody should be treating any medical condition based on what they find on Google or through AI without chatting with their doctor about it.”
It is this risk that concerns pharmacist and integrative health commentator Mick Alexander, who says some AI users may turn to the technology seeking a diagnosis rather than guidance.
“When you see a doctor, they have enough understanding to know what questions to ask,” he says.
“Your doctor can also see the person in front of them and gain visual cues from your appearance or from your body language.
“These are things data points don’t pick up if they’re just based on results from blood tests.”
Questions about the regulation of generative AI health advice are also yet to be answered, Mr Alexander says, and whether the advice it sends users will be scrutinised by medical professionals.
If AI health offerings fall into the category of clinical decision support services, they may require approval from Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Administration.
It’s a grey space in the market, Mr Alexander says, and one that should be thoroughly tested and addressed before any medical professional recommends an AI health service.
“I wouldn’t be relying on it as a decisionmaking tool,” he says.
“If you’re looking for more information about your health or your conditions, the first place to start is with your healthcare team or your doctor.”
“I’ve hardly taken any pain relief since doing the Gokhale Method. Before, I was taking prescription painkillers every day.”
~Emily Krout-Ryan
If your home no longer suits your needs but the thought of selling, moving, or renovating feels overwhelming, you’re not alone.
At Renovation Matters, we help Canberra homeowners unlock the true value of their homes through thoughtful, coste ective renovations that add comfort, function, and style — all delivered with the expertise of some of Canberra’s best tradespeople.
Renovate to sell: We guide you through strategic upgrades that help you sell faster, for a higher price, and with minimal stress — with funding available until settlement.
Renovate to stay: Love where you live? We can help you update your home for comfort, style, and functionality. From decluttering and updating key rooms to managing trusted trades on your behalf, we handle it all with care, clarity, and a personal touch.
“I had a fantastic experience working with Renovation Matters to get my house ready for sale. They did an excellent job with the renovations—everything was completed to a high standard and on schedule. The team was professional, reliable, and Kim kept me informed throughout the whole process. Communication was always clear and prompt. Kim’s management skills are exceptional. She is an absolute pleasure to work with. She is compassionate, professional, thoughtful, clever, and brilliant at her job. I highly recommend Renovation Matters and Kim to anyone needing quality renovation work.”
ARIES (MARCH 21-APRIL 19)
You seek to understand people, and that takes time. Early impressions can’t show you patterns. What you base your trust on is what people do repeatedly, how they show up and what they follow through on. Subtlety and beauty draw you in. Loud attention grabs repel you.
TAURUS (APRIL 20-MAY 20)
In certain respects, the team gets what you’re doing, agrees with you and cheers you on. This week also shows missions best made solo. Solo efforts offer more room for curiosity. You’ll figure out what part of it is worth exploring for you, and it will be so satisfying to steer things in your own direction.
GEMINI (MAY 21-JUNE 21)
1 What does the acronym ICYMI generally mean in text chat?
2 In 1973, who had a hit with the song, 48 Crash?
3 Which ingredient gives traditional pesto its green colour?
4 Instagram was launched during which year?
5 Which king was the grandfather of King Charles III?
People rarely ask for what they really want. So, you approach many situations as if they are studies in human nature. The one who asks for your opinion wants your approval. The one who asks for your approval wants your financial back-up. Whatever the want is, you figure it out.
CANCER (JUNE 22-JULY 22)
This week, your choices and work speak to the open truth: no one is you. You hold yourself to high standards, refining all you do because you know it’s the extra polish that makes an impression. You seek feedback, but your own self-review is really what makes your voice so distinctive.
LEO (JULY 23-AUG. 22)
If something has made feeling close to others a bit hard, it means you’re beginning to see these obstacles to intimacy. Simply bringing it tenderly into awareness is powerful. Seeing your patterns with curiosity, rather than judgement, can gently loosen their hold.
VIRGO (AUG. 23-SEPT. 22)
What you consider a small win is actually quite remarkable given the circumstances. And what you consider a loss is so minor. You are a soul doing the soul’s work, and you’re not responsible for the accounting this week. Just know you are doing so much better than you think.
LIBRA (SEPT. 23-OCT. 23)
A beautiful idea stays beautiful when you hold it with an open palm. You’ll deftly manage your ideas about special relationships and projects. Grip too tightly and you crush it, too loosely and you drop it. Now you’ll perfectly sense when to support, when to release and when to simply let it unfold.
SCORPIO (OCT. 24-NOV. 21)
Even when it’s your responsibility to fill a role, you are fully aware that all people have strengths and weaknesses and most “casting” is a matter of fit, not inherent worthiness. When you make comparisons, you’re not doing it out of judgment. You’re just trying to find the right person for the job.
SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 22-DEC. 21)
You can be amenable to suggestion, amicable in nature and a general all-around pleaser and still opt out of requests. Their asks and wishes are only suggestions. You are the only one who can command yourself to make moves. This week, don’t forget to ask, “So what would please me?”
CAPRICORN (DEC. 22-JAN. 19)
Comfort is dreamy, but there are so many things you want that you are willing to be inconvenienced and even pained to get. You’re also willing to be uncomfortable for no guaranteed result, because to explore and expand outside of your comfort zone leads to being more comfortable with yourself.
AQUARIUS (JAN. 20-FEB. 18)
There’s something about boundaries you’ll notice this week. You have a different set of rules for each person. Maybe it’s about trust, but more likely there is attraction, interest and curiosity in play. You’ll observe yourself with honesty, learning and loving yourself even more.
PISCES (FEB. 19-MARCH 20)
Sometimes your tender heart for the experience of others feels like a burden. But as much as it costs you, it pays you more and in the most enriching currencies. Now you’ll do something remarkable that would be impossible if not for your ability to put yourself in the other person’s shoes.
Perched in a peaceful pocket of Nicholls, 21 Fleetwood Street is a home defined by outlook, light and architectural purity. Expansive views stretch across Harcourt Hill and beyond, with hot air balloons often drifting past the front of the property, creating a truly special daily spectacle. Inside, flowers bloom from nearly every window, enhancing the home’s connection to its surroundings. With four bedrooms, two bathrooms, two studies and generous living spaces,
the residence offers both flexibility and comfort. Quiet, safe and within walking distance to local amenities, this is a beautifully considered home in a tightly held neighbourhood.
Large lots offering a family-focused lifestyle without the high price tag of city living.
• Lot sizes ranging from 850m² to 1,547m²
• All lots are fully serviced and ready to build on • Freehold Land with no time limit to build • $80m state-of-the-art High School (opening 2027)
This 1983 ex display home is a credit to the owners, offering privacy and seamless integration so close to nature and great walking tracks. Dial back to 1983 when ex display homes were the pinnacle of craftsmanship. The well-designed floorplan ensures great liveability for all members of the family. The home is situated on 911m2, with double glazed windows along one side of the home with visitors commenting on how quiet it is. Two living areas, plus a separate dining room area allow the family enough room to spread out for any number of activities. The kitchen has a great position for entertaining with the outdoor pergola so close by. All bedrooms easily accommodate a mixture of king, queen and double bed furniture, with plenty of robes for storage. Whether this is a larger home than your current residence, or perhaps you wish to downsize from a two-storey home, this offers the very best for your future. Now you have the chance to be the lucky new owner.
There are only 8 of this floorplan available and a fully renovated version like this rarely comes to the market. Owners have undertaken these renovations for their own comfort, and buyers will appreciate everything is to a very high standard. Located in the heart of cosmopolitan Kingston, this trendy two-storey three bedroom ensuite apartment is sure to impress those who yearn for space to spread out. The apartment includes open plan living with a large formal lounge, separate dining area, an informal living room plus space for a study nook near the stairwell. The master bedroom with ensuite and a huge double shower is on the lower level, while upstairs includes the bathroom with skylight and the other two queen sized bedrooms with built-in robes. The laundry space and attic storage will set this apartment from others, with such a well-considered design to maximise the upstairs bathroom space. The home enjoys leafy views from its two balconies with ideal space for alfresco meals or morning coffee with the papers.
Set on a large parcel of land and enjoying a northerly aspect, absolute liveability is the phrase that comes to mind when visiting this well-designed two storey renovated five bedroom, three bathroom family residence. Free-flowing living areas feature a fireplace, family room and adjacent kitchen, offering a fluid indoor and outdoor flow, perfect for all those future family events. Segregated master bedroom, with another wing of the home having 4 king, queen and double sized bedrooms ensure everyone has their own space. Downstairs could be a third living area or second generation living, with an additional bathroom close to the pool. The outdoor oasis is the crown jewel of the property. Dive into the mineral-rich waters of your MagnaPool, which uses magnesium to provide a luxurious, eco-friendly swim, with a heat pump and solar blanket extending the swimming season. As well as a 7.92kW solar array and a 10kWh LG battery, and smart transfer of fireplace heat, there are too many features to mention here. Please visit prior to Auction.
AUCTION: On Site Saturday 14TH February 2026, 1:30pm
OPEN TIMES: Please refer to websites for details
Penthouse views to make your heart sing! No other Red Hill apartment can boast the size, or privacy or the mesmerising views of this bespoke Penthouse. Walls of floor to ceiling windows frame the magical vistas of the iconic Canberra landscape within this tranquil habitat, with nothing before you to break the spell. In terms of design, this is the only Penthouse surrounding Lady Nelson Park that has total coverage of the top floor as a single residence. No other neighbours on the same floor, and no sharing of your foyer. This is an exquisitely crafted sky home way above the Red Hill tree canopy with views beyond, incorporating a vista of 270 degrees of the Inner South / Parliamentary skyline. Fine craftmanship, meticulous attention to detail and a bespoke sensibility defines this most distinguished address in “The Parks”. Flooded with natural light, it reveals a considered design with sleek open planned living areas, customized kitchen with breakfast bar all spilling out to three huge balconies ready for future entertaining.
AUCTION: On Site Saturday 14 February 2026, 9:30am OPEN TIMES:
Please refer to websites for details
1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments now ready to move in at The Borough, in the heart of Denman Prospect, featuring spacious floorplan and custom Flexi-Space design.
Visit our display apartments at 1 Carden Street, Denman Prospect. For more information, call LJ Hooker on 0417 668 668.
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A 41-year-old woman has died following a singlevehicle collision in O’Malley on Saturday 24 January.
At about 12:50pm, police and emergency services were called to Yamba Drive near the intersection with Mawson Drive, where a grey SUV had left the roadway and collided with a tree.
Sadly, a 41-year-old woman was declared deceased at the scene, and a 30-year-old man was transported to hospital by ACT Ambulance Service paramedics with serious injuries.
Police are urging anyone who witnessed or has dashcam footage of the collision to come forward.
This is the third ACT road fatality for 2026.
Beginning next year, ACT residents will be able to recycle more containers for a 10-cent refund under an expansion of the ACT Government’s Container Deposit Scheme (CDS).
At the moment, the ACT CDS accepts most aluminium cans; glass and plastic bottles; and cartons from juice boxes and flavoured milk labelled with a 10-cent refund mark.
From mid-2027, most containers between 150 millilitres and 3 litres, such as wine and spirits, cordials and juices, and larger containers of up to 3 litres that are already in the scheme, like flavoured milk and juice, will also be eligible.
Until then, people should recycle these containers in their yellow-recycling bins; the new containers will not be accepted at return points until the CDS expansion.
Canberrans should not leave pets in hot vehicles, ACT Policing warns, after officers rescued two dogs in Tuggeranong this month.
On Wednesday 21 January, police found two dogs locked in a car in a shopping centre car park. The two dogs were very distressed; the outside of the car was very hot to touch, and all the windows were shut. Officers opened the vehicle, and immediately transported the dogs to a nearby vet, who saved their lives.
With hot temperatures expected to continue, ACT Policing is reminding people of the dangers of leaving animals in vehicles.
