History and Heritage of Canberra

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[{"address":"Novotel Canberra","placeId":null,"location":{"longitudeDelta":0.1358411316394428,"latitudeDelta":0.09219986310369421,"latitude":-35.27788306123466,"longitude":149.1286908},"media":[{"type":"place","content":{"types":["establishment","lodging","point_of_interest"],"formatted_address":"65 Northbourne Ave, Canberra ACT 2601, Australia","geometry":{"viewport":{"east":149.1300397802915,"south":-35.2792320302915,"north":-35.2765340697085,"west":149.1273418197085},"location":{"lng":149.1289097,"lat":-35.2774657},"location_type":"ROOFTOP"},"address_components":[{"types":["street_number"],"short_name":"65","long_name":"65"},{"types":["route"],"short_name":"Northbourne Ave","long_name":"Northbourne Avenue"},{"types":["locality","political"],"short_name":"Canberra","long_name":"Canberra"},{"types":["administrative_area_level_1","political"],"short_name":"ACT","long_name":"Australian Capital Territory"},{"types":["country","political"],"short_name":"AU","long_name":"Australia"},{"types":["postal_code"],"short_name":"2601","long_name":"2601"}],"plus_code":{"compound_code":"P4FH+2H Canberra ACT, Australia","global_code":"4RPFP4FH+2H"},"place_id":"ChIJL3om2WdNFmsR0-jqbI9e7IA"}},{"type":"img","content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2FbF0ycpvseV6heZRGM8fU%2Ffirst-edition-canberra-buffet-breakfast-00-1-2200x1200.jpg?alt=media&token=f4db5ff3-6a80-419c-9a0f-ac447b19b224"},{"type":"text","content":"Before we dive into exploring the History and Heritage of Canberra, let's start the day with a hearty breakfast at **First Edition Canberra**, located right inside the Novotel. This cosy restaurant offers a delicious breakfast menu to fuel you up for the day ahead."},{"type":"text","content":"Try their classic **Eggs Benedict** or enjoy a stack of **Pancakes with maple syrup and fresh berries**. They also have a great selection of fresh pastries, fruits, and juices."},{"type":"text","content":"Feel free to explore at your own pace on todays journey and choose the stops that interest you the most. There's no rush—if you want to spend extra time at a certain stop or even skip others, that's totally fine. This is your journey, so make it your own and enjoy the experience."}]},{"address":"Australian War Memorial","placeId":null,"location":{"longitudeDelta":0.1358411316394428,"latitudeDelta":0.09219986310369421,"latitude":-35.28167336637116,"longitude":149.14903545},"media":[{"type":"place","content":{"place_id":"ChIJ7wRAy3ZNFmsR5izUOK6G70E"}},{"type":"img","content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2FbF0ycpvseV6heZRGM8fU%2Fcanberra-accomodation-attractions-war-memorial-1500x880.jpg?alt=media&token=597fb017-c949-4603-a3eb-bddc4591441d"},{"type":"text","content":"Welcome to the **Australian War Memorial**, a place that weaves together stories of bravery, sacrifice, and remembrance. As you stand here, you are at the heart of one of the world's most significant war memorials, which serves as both a shrine to those who have served and a museum preserving their stories. I recommend spending 2 hours here, but of course, feel free to spend as long as you like."},{"type":"text","content":"Our journey begins with the vision of **Charles Bean**, Australia’s official war correspondent during World War I. Deeply moved by the suffering of Australian soldiers at places like Gallipoli and Pozières, Bean wanted to create a memorial to honour them. As we walk, imagine Bean back in 1916, standing amidst the devastating battlefields of France. It was here, after witnessing the harrowing losses at Pozières, that he resolved to ensure these men would not be forgotten. This is where the idea of a memorial began—a place not only to commemorate those who died but to capture the Australian experience of war in all its facets."},{"type":"text","content":"As you step into the **Commemorative Area**, take a moment to feel the solemnity of the **Roll of Honour** that lines the cloisters. The names of over 102,000 Australians who have died in wars and conflicts are inscribed here. This space, with its serene Pool of Reflection, is intended to invite quiet contemplation and respect for those who have given their lives. Look up, and you’ll see the stunning stained glass windows and the mosaic dome of the **Hall of Memory**, which houses the **Tomb of the Unknown Australian Soldier**—a symbol of all Australians who have died in war."},{"type":"text","content":"Walking through the Memorial’s galleries, you’ll see how it captures Australia's military history from the Boer War through to contemporary conflicts. Start in the **First World War Gallery**, where you’ll encounter vivid displays of the Gallipoli campaign, the Western Front, and the desert campaigns in the Middle East. Notice the original artefacts—like uniforms, letters, and even aircraft—that bring these stories to life. You’ll also see the work of official war artists like Will Dyson and Arthur Streeton, who were commissioned to capture the realities of war. These artworks and photographs provide a powerful visual narrative of the Australian wartime experience."},{"type":"text","content":"Moving forward, the **Second World War Galleries** continue the story, showing Australia's role from the battles in North Africa to the jungles of New Guinea. Here, you can see items like the midget submarine from the Japanese attack on Sydney Harbour and the famous Lancaster bomber \"G for George.\" Each exhibit is carefully curated to tell the story of Australia's involvement in global conflicts, not as a glorification of war, but to commemorate those who served."},{"type":"text","content":"The Memorial also extends to more recent conflicts, peacekeeping missions, and humanitarian efforts, reflecting Australia's ongoing commitment to global peace and security. The **ANZAC Hall**, a newer addition, hosts large-scale exhibits, including the **Striking by Night** sound and light show, which depicts a Lancaster bomber crew’s mission over Berlin."},{"type":"text","content":"We end our tour with the **Last Post Ceremony** held daily at 4:30 pm in the Commemorative Area. It is a moving tribute that honours one name from the Roll of Honour each day, reminding us of the individual stories behind each name."},{"type":"text","content":"As you walk through these halls and spaces, reflect on the many stories of courage, hardship, and sacrifice that shaped Australia's history. The Australian War Memorial is more than a museum; it is a place of memory, designed to help us remember and understand the profound impact of war on individuals, families, and the nation itself."}]},{"address":"Blundells Cottage","placeId":null,"location":{"longitudeDelta":0.1358411316394428,"latitudeDelta":0.09219986310369421,"latitude":-35.29275381124087,"longitude":149.14161589999995},"media":[{"type":"place","content":{"place_id":"ChIJ8-X55wxNFmsRgRu6pWs-f7k"}},{"type":"img","content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2FbF0ycpvseV6heZRGM8fU%2F5c367658d6324da4730549c0~-~media--01bc9b30--query%402x.png?alt=media&token=5e003cd0-2caf-4b13-8efe-bdd1bf77b8eb"},{"type":"text","content":"Welcome to Blundells Cottage, one of Canberra’s most intriguing historical sites! As you stand here by this humble stone building, take a moment to imagine life as it was in the 19th century. Built around 1860, this six-room cottage was originally constructed by George Campbell of the Duntroon Estate to house his ploughman, William Ginn, and his family. The cottage sits on the northern shore of Lake Burley Griffin and is one of the few remaining examples of the stone cottages typical of early Canberra's rural landscape.\n\nWalking through the cottage, you’ll notice how it is furnished to depict rural life from the late 1800s to the early 1900s. Each room tells a story of the different families who lived here, from the Ginn family in the 1860s to the Blundell family who occupied the cottage from 1874 to 1933. George Blundell, a local bullock driver, and his wife, Flora, raised their children here, living off the land by growing their own food and raising livestock.\n\nAfter the Blundells, the cottage became home to Harry Oldfield, a shepherd known for his picturesque style, and his wife, Alice. Harry passed away in 1942, but Alice continued to live here until 1958, still using a camp oven, kerosene lamps, and chopping her own firewood—truly embodying the spirit of resilience and self-sufficiency.\n\nBlundells Cottage was nearly demolished after Alice's death, but it was saved thanks to a proposal by Sir William Holford to preserve it as a museum. It has since been managed by various historical societies and is now maintained by the National Capital Authority. Today, Blundells Cottage stands as a unique time capsule, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of the early residents of Canberra before it became the nation's capital.\n\nFeel free to explore the cottage’s rooms, look at the authentic domestic and farming items on display, and imagine what life was like in a remote rural outpost that slowly transformed into the heart of Australia. The cottage is open to visitors on weekends, and guided tours are available to provide deeper insights into its rich history. I recommend staying for around 1 hour.\n\n"}]},{"address":"Old Parliament House","placeId":null,"location":{"longitudeDelta":0.1358411316394428,"latitudeDelta":0.09219986310369421,"latitude":-35.30240921124487,"longitude":149.12967925},"media":[{"type":"place","content":{"place_id":"ChIJCUsl4BhNFmsRhaBxEayyx04"}},{"type":"img","content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2FbF0ycpvseV6heZRGM8fU%2Fanao-old-parliament-house-board-governance.jpg?alt=media&token=62ad8d5d-d9ae-494e-b9a6-f19f71dd4ad7"},{"type":"img","content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2FbF0ycpvseV6heZRGM8fU%2Fbanner-image-1200x675.jpg?alt=media&token=cecde269-afbe-4435-8226-730c18084440"},{"type":"text","content":"Welcome to Old Parliament House, now home to the Museum of Australian Democracy! This building was the heart of Australia's federal government from 1927 to 1988, playing a key role in shaping the nation's democracy. Constructed in the middle of a sheep paddock, Old Parliament House witnessed significant political events, protests, and decisions that helped define modern Australia.\n\nThe building, originally intended as a temporary home for the Parliament, hosted numerous pivotal moments. It opened with great fanfare on 9 May 1927, with thousands of people in attendance, the Duke of York (later King George VI) opening the doors with a gold key, and Dame Nellie Melba singing the national anthem. Over the years, Old Parliament House saw Australia through the Great Depression, the Second World War, and the Dismissal of Prime Minister Gough Whitlam in 1975—one of the most dramatic political events in Australian history.\n\nInside, you can explore the preserved chambers, including the House of Representatives and the Prime Minister’s Suite, where Australia's leaders debated and shaped the nation's laws. The Museum also features exhibitions that explore the workings of democracy and the stories of the people who made it happen. Feel like doing a little more learning? Directly opposite the Old Parliament House, you will find the Aboriginal Tent Embassy, a symbol of Aboriginal protest against successive governments and their approach to Indigenous issues.\n\n"}]},{"address":"National Library of Australia","placeId":null,"location":{"longitudeDelta":0.1358411316394428,"latitudeDelta":0.09219986310369421,"latitude":-35.2971531612427,"longitude":149.1301531},"media":[{"type":"place","content":{"place_id":"ChIJEcVKpxdNFmsRdwaQCoeBlmk"}},{"type":"img","content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2FbF0ycpvseV6heZRGM8fU%2Fmain_reading_room_5.jpg?alt=media&token=1e8c1bb1-6424-41bd-b8a1-4b77c02747a5"},{"type":"img","content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2FbF0ycpvseV6heZRGM8fU%2FNational_Library_of_Australia%2C_ACT_-_perspective_controlled.jpg?alt=media&token=64ffa9d7-ec7e-46a8-9793-417fa0e24178"},{"type":"text","content":"Welcome to the National Library of Australia! Located in Canberra, this library is a treasure trove of Australia’s cultural and historical heritage. Established by the National Library Act in 1960, the library serves as the nation's largest reference library and is responsible for collecting, preserving, and providing access to documentary resources of national significance. Its origins date back to 1901, starting as the Commonwealth Parliamentary Library before becoming a standalone national institution.\n\nAs you explore, you’ll see that the library's collections encompass a vast array of materials, including books, newspapers, manuscripts, photographs, maps, music, and more. One of the library's highlights is the Trove platform, a digital service that offers access to an extensive range of digitised newspapers, websites, and other historical documents. The library also hosts several important exhibitions, lectures, and special events throughout the year, showcasing items from its rich collections.\n\nDesigned by the architectural firm Bunning and Madden, the current building was opened in 1968 and features distinctive Late Twentieth Century Stripped Classical architecture, with a marble-clad exterior, stained glass windows by Leonard French, and tapestries by Mathieu Matégot. Inside, the library offers multiple reading rooms where visitors can browse the collections, access digital resources, and enjoy a quiet space for study and reflection.\n\nWhether you’re interested in researching Australian history or simply want to enjoy the stunning architecture, the National Library of Australia provides a unique window into the nation’s past and present.\n\n"}]},{"address":"FIRST EDITION CANBERRA","placeId":"ChIJS1cK3mdNFmsRZclj0cOSenw","location":{"longitudeDelta":0.18593639059244998,"latitudeDelta":0.09219986310369421,"latitude":-35.27754381123455,"longitude":149.12902100000005},"media":[{"type":"place","content":{"place_id":"ChIJS1cK3mdNFmsRZclj0cOSenw"}},{"type":"img","content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2FbF0ycpvseV6heZRGM8fU%2Ffirst%20edition%201.jpeg?alt=media&token=6429f6ff-36a8-4d4b-9f43-e48b667d84b4"},{"type":"img","content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2FbF0ycpvseV6heZRGM8fU%2Ffirst%20edition%202.jpeg?alt=media&token=5292da64-2078-4231-8f9b-6faa38ceed69"},{"type":"img","content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2FbF0ycpvseV6heZRGM8fU%2Ffirst%20edition.jpeg?alt=media&token=04769503-55ef-4b5c-8969-72864e0b33b7"},{"type":"text","content":"Welcome to First Edition Canberra, where the charm of literature meets culinary delight! Picture this: when our hotel first opened, we had a dedicated reading corner filled with rare Australian literature. Today, we honour that legacy by blending it into our vibrant dining experience. Did you know the chandelier above us is made from recycled wine bottles? It’s a creative nod to our commitment to sustainability – a marvel of reuse that you should definitely check out!\n\nNow, let's turn to local lore. In the 1920s, Canberra was far from the bustling city it is today, but early visionaries dreamed of a place that harmonized modernity and nature. First Edition Canberra fulfils that dream with sophisticated interiors and a welcoming ambience that mirrors the Australian landscape. Notice the subtle hints of eucalyptus in the air? Our chef loves to incorporate native ingredients, making every meal a journey through Australia’s rich flora.\n\nSpeaking of meals, why not indulge in our signature kangaroo fillet or savour the barramundi infused with native spices for dinner? And to truly complete your experience, how about extending your stay with another luxurious night at Novotel Canberra? Here, we promise that both our covers and dishes are as captivating as their contents. Cheers to a memorable time with us!\n\n"}]}]