What to do:
National Science Week: Delve into the exciting world of science with events happening around Canberra. It's on from Saturday, August 10 to Sunday, August 18. Among the activities are Unconformity Geology Tours where you can journey underneath Parliament House with an expert geologist to explore a geological phenomenon called "Unconformity".
On Saturday at ANU will be the Heavy Ion Accelerator Facility Open Day. Have you ever tried liquid nitrogen ice cream? Do you want to know how vacuum systems work or learn about natural radioactivity?
There will be demonstrations and tours. And Questacon, The National Science and Technology Centre, will have a range of activities and events for all ages including science for preschoolers, science shows, future science talks and presentations by the Australian Federal Police. For the full program see: scienceweek.net.au.
Where to go:
At the ACT Seasonal and Collectable Fair, find unique treasures as exhibitors from all over NSW, Victoria and the ACT present jewellery, Asian antiquity, and items of French glassware or ceramics, along with a treasure trove of antique furniture and collectables. Adults $12; Children under 14 free; Concession $10. It's on at Albert Hall from Friday to Sunday. See: mc-rotary.org/antique-fair.
What to see:
This might be your last opportunity to see Julia, Joanna Murray-Smith's play in which Justine Clarke steps into the shoes of Australia's first female prime minister, Julia Gillard. In 2012, Julia Gillard gave a speech that sent shockwaves around the world. This play is a re-examination of that moment, and a portrait of the woman who made it all happen. Co-produced by the Sydney Theatre Company and the Canberra Theatre Centre, Julia is both a compelling insight into the person behind the public mask, and a reflection on the experience of women in contemporary politics. It is on at the Playhouse, Canberra Theatre Centre, until August 10. See: canberratheatrecentre.com.au.
What to watch:
Rob Lowe narrates Inside the Mind of a Dog (Netflix from August 9). This film looks at such questions as why some dogs chase balls for hours and why small dogs think they're huge. It explores the ancient and complex human-dog relationship, reveals cutting edge research and offers at-home tips for dog owners everywhere. The film follows three main characters - a brilliant, super trained border collie, a precocious pug and a lovable rescued mutt - and a team of elite canine experts from across the globe dive deep into the hidden mind of man's best friend to answer everyone's biggest canine questions.
Where to eat:
Les Bistronomes in Campbell is the obvious choice. Canberra's "best French dining" restaurant won three awards at this year's Restaurant & Catering Australia Hostplus Awards for Excellence in the ACT. Chef Clement Chauvin's restaurant took out the Restaurant of the Year, Premium Dining of the Year and best European Restaurant in this year's awards.
