Canberra Chronicles: A Memorable Journey Through 2024’s Vibrant Lifestyle

Canberra possesses its own personalities and prominent spots – and Region enjoys narrating their tales. This article revisits the ACT area’s distinct lifestyle in 2024 alongside twelve stories that captured your interest.

12. Lake George has not been this replenished for such an extended period since the 1960s – what is the cause?
by James Coleman

Lake George reached this level in 1990 and 1976, but only in those years. Photo: James Coleman.

For three years, Lake George has retained a significant amount of water, to the extent that windsurfers are frequently seen out on the lake. However, how long will this situation persist? Professor Brad Pillans from ANU has some thoughts.

11. Former news anchor ‘Robbo’ reflects on his 1980s fame, the Jolimont Siege, the Raiders’ glory days and life after stardom
by Oliver Jacques

Greg ‘Robbo’ Robson transitioned from meteorologist to sports journalist to news presenter. Photo: Supplied.

In a survey conducted by lobbyist Richard Farmer, former news presenter Greg ‘Robbo’ Robson was deemed the most recognizable individual in Canberra during the late 1980s.

His ascent in the career coincided with a flourishing period in the capital – the long-time morning radio host moved to a television sports reporter role while the Raiders were clinching championships, ultimately advancing to chief news anchor during a time when locals could enjoy hour-long evening news segments.

Throughout his career, he informed Canberra about major incidents, including John Lennon’s assassination, Australia’s America Cup victory, and the death of Princess Diana. He also emceed the Birdman Rally and became part of the news himself when he was caught in his radio studio amid a gunman’s siege at the Jolimont Centre, an event he reported during the evening bulletins.

10. A novel type of boat is now available for rental on Lake Burley Griffin (and you cannot overlook it)

by James Coleman

The Love Boat on Lake Burley Griffin. Photo: James Coleman.

This is the purpose of Lake Burley Griffin. Not for mere gazing, not for strolling around, and certainly not for swimming. Rather, it is meant for floating and unwinding while sipping a chilled drink.

‘Love Boats’ is the lake’s latest addition, and from my vantage point – aboard one, with a polished wooden wheel in hand, faux captain’s hat perched on my head, and cushy vinyl beneath me – the experience feels almost Venetian. Although the water has a brownish hue.

“Everyone advised me against that name, but it was the only one that resonated with me,” remarks owner Charles Chatain.

9. A Canberra photographer declares recent aurora australis as ‘the grandest display I’ve witnessed in two decades’
by James Coleman

The aurora australis, captured near Williamsdale by Canberra photographer Alan Broomby. Photo: Alan Broomby.

Did you witness the aurora australis this year? Tuggeranong photographer Alan Broomby braved the elements, including chilly winds and rain, to capture the ‘southern lights’ in such a vivid manner that “the bright red was visible even through the clouds.”

8. Get ready Canberra, a stunning new network of walking paths awaits your exploration
by Dione David

The newly established walking track network in Ginninderry features sweeping views of the Murrumbidgee River. Photo: David Barber.

A 10 km system of new pedestrian pathways unveiling some of the most stunning regions of the Conservation Corridor, including the inaugural swing bridges in Canberra, has been officially inaugurated.

Constructed by Canberra-based trail creators Iconic Trails and financed by Ginninderry, this network includes a variety of lengths, landscapes, and vast views along the Murrumbidgee River, ensuring an array of experiences suitable for individuals of all ages and fitness capabilities.

7. Staying to the left… and other traffic regulations Canberra motorists seem to misunderstand
by James Coleman

ACT Policing indicates that speeding was a frequent theme in traffic violation notices issued between April 2023 and May 2024. Photo: Michelle Kroll.

Just how problematic are drivers in Canberra? We consulted the police to determine the primary reasons they issue traffic infringement notices and conducted our own investigation as well. Here’s what we discovered.

6. Who placed the rocking horses on a log? We are uncertain who initiated it, but we know someone continues to do so
by James Coleman

You’ve certainly encountered them before. Photo: Kim Treasure.

Everyone has noticed the alternative to Pooh Bear’s Corner – over a dozen rocking horses meticulously positioned on two fallen logs at the foot of the Clyde. But who is responsible for placing them there? Rob has a connection to it.

5. Is the National Gallery’s ‘Gauguin’s World’ its most contentious exhibition ever?
by Sasha Grishin

Paul Gauguin’s Three Tahitians (Trois tahitiens) 1899 oil on canvas 73 × 94 cm, National Galleries of Scotland, Edinburgh. Presented by Sir Alexander Maitland in memory of his wife Rosalind 1960, NG 222. Photo: NGA.

Gauguin’s World was a contentious blockbuster exhibition at the National Gallery in Canberra in 2024. Art critic Sasha Grishin explores some of the intricate legacy of Gauguin, who produced some unforgettable art.

4. Comedy series highlights Canberra, a location where individuals reside – not always in a politically correct manner
by Sally Hopman

Canberra bus shelters are set to gain fame beyond our borders thanks to a new ABC TV comedy filmed in the capital. Photo: Supplied.

This production was one of the largest television projects ever shot in Canberra, and hopes were high among all participants that it would portray the national capital as a place where people actually reside – not merely a political center.

Austin, an eight-episode comedy series primarily filmed in the ACT, debuted on ABC TV this year.

It was shot in Canberra, reflecting the capital through the lens, while also presenting a significant chance for the residents of Canberra.to observe how large productions are created – with 50 locals engaged as crew and over 300 extras.

3. Clyde v Brown: which mountain route is more perilous? We analyze the statistics
by James Coleman

Government Bend on the Kings Highway at Clyde Mountain. Photo: Alex Rea.

Two routes connect Canberra to the coast, and residents have definitely heard the terrifying anecdotes. Landslides. Icy patches. Vehicles spinning into trees or tumbling down inclines and crashing into other trees, all due to driver mistakes or brakes failing under the extensive length and steepness of the decline.

It’s the perennial argument: Brown Mountain or Clyde Mountain? Longer or steeper? Yet which of the two routes to the coastline is truly more hazardous? We examined the accident statistics.

2. Where is the best area to reside in Canberra? We inquired and ignited a conflict
by James Coleman

It’s a stunning aerial view, but it’s essential to comprehend why Canberra ranks as the second-best city worldwide for residing. Photo: James Coleman.

It’s well known that Canberra has been recognized as the second-best city globally for quality of life.

The recent report from Oxford Economics Global Cities placed us right after Grenoble in France regarding life expectancy, per capita income, income distribution, housing costs, recreational and cultural facilities, and internet connectivity.

But which area is the finest? We posed the question, and now we still aren’t any wiser!

1. The 6 premier venues in Canberra that should never have closed
by James Coleman

Capital Pancakes. Those were memorable times. Photo: Region.

We inquired about which notable Canberra venue you yearn for the most, and here’s the feedback we received. Let’s relive the sticky floors, vinyl records, and a drink at the Cotter.