Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
The Northern Territory Police Force is calling for information in relation to an aggravated assault that occurred in Palmerston overnight.
Around 10:05pm, the Joint Emergency Services Communication Centre received a report of an unconscious male at an address in Johnston. It is alleged the unknown offender seriously assaulted the victim before fleeing the scene.
Police and St John Ambulance attended, and the victim was conveyed to Royal Darwin Hospital with serious head injuries. He remains in hospital in a serious but stable condition.
The alleged offender remains outstanding, and investigations are ongoing.
Detectives urge anyone with information about the incident to contact police on 131 444, quoting reference number NTP2500045794. Anonymous reports can be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via https://crimestoppersnt.com.au.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
The Northern Territory Police Force is calling for information following a hit and run incident that occurred in Palmerston on Friday 25 April 2025.
Approximately 7:00pm, a pedestrian was struck by a vehicle whilst crossing the outbound lane of Temple Terrace in Gray, just before the Emery Avenue roundabout.
The vehicle involved is believed to be an older model silver four-door sedan, travelling southbound along Temple Terrace at the time of the incident. The driver failed to stop and render assistance and continued to drive outbound after striking the pedestrian.
A passerby observed the injured male and provided assistance at the scene until police and St John Ambulance arrived. The pedestrian was then conveyed to Royal Darwin Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
Police are urging anyone with information or who may have dash-cam footage or CCTV from the area around the time of the collision, to make contact on 131 444. Please quote reference number NTP2500043020.
Issued for WINGFIELD in WESTERN METROPOLITAN AREA.
Warning level Advice – Threat is Reduced
Action The threat of this fire has reduced however people are reminded to take care in the area. Smoke will reduce visibility in the area and there is a risk of falling trees and branches.
For updates, check the MFS website at mfs.sa.gov.au or phone the Information Hotline on 1800 362 361.
Issued for WINGFIELD in WESTERN METROPOLITAN AREA.
Warning level Advice – Avoid Smoke
Action Smoke from WINGFIELD is visible from the North South Motorway and moving towards Cormack Road.
Smoke can affect your health. You should stay informed and be aware of the health impacts of smoke on yourself and others.
Symptoms of exposure includes shortness of breath, wheezing and coughing, burning eyes, running nose, chest tightness, chest pain and dizziness or light-headedness.
If you or anyone in your care are having difficulty breathing, seek medical attention from your local GP. If your symptoms become severe, call 000.
More information will be provided by the MFS when it is available.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Children enjoying a live show at Questacon. Photo credit VisitCanberra
In brief:
Canberra has plenty of activities and experiences for families.
This story lists accessible activities and spaces for families to visit.
Canberra is packed with family-friendly activities and experiences. Many of these attractions and spaces are inclusive for people with physical and sensory disability and access needs.
From events and galleries to gardens and playgrounds, there are lots of accessible activities to choose from.
Nature and outdoors
The National Arboretum Canberra is one of the world’s largest collections of rare, endangered and significant trees. This popular spot is also home to POD playground. You’ll also find the National Bonsai and Penjing Collection. There are disabled car parking spaces available across the Arboretum. You can also book to hire a free wheelchair.
Smooth, wide pathways connect key attractions such as the playground and café. There are also All Access paths and Grade 1 sealed paths with no steps to help you explore.
A visit to the fully accessible Boundless Playground is a must for kids’ fun. This all-abilities play space is next to Lake Burley Griffin. It is fully enclosed, has easy car parking and great toilet facilities.
Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve is a great place to see wildlife in a natural setting. It’s just a 40-minute drive from the city. Mobility-impaired visitors can hire an all-terrain wheelchair, known as a TrailRider.
Tidbinbilla also offers mobility access to many popular locations. These include The Sanctuary and the Eucalypt Forest. Both have:
accessible toilets
designated parking areas
paved footpaths for independent wheelchair access.
The Nature Discovery Playground has a bird’s nest swing suitable for very young children and people with limited mobility.
You can use the accessible pathways and ramps to get around the zoo. There are some sloped and gravel paths, though. The Adventure Land playground includes a wheelchair-accessible playhouse and two fully harnessed swings.
The Australian National Botanic Gardens is an amazing place to explore. It is home to an array of native plants. Visitors can hire a free wheelchair or electric mobility scooter. You can also book a seat on the wheelchair-friendly bus tour.
Little explorers love the Paperbark Treehouse. This has a ramp-accessible platform at the main level.
Looking for a place to cool off? Dickson Pool has something for the whole family to enjoy. The outdoor pool includes:
a splash park
a toddler pool
a learn-to-swim pool
a heated 50m pool with ramp access.
Galleries, attractions and museums
Questacon is known for its family-friendly experiences. It also has great options to make it an inclusive space.
All of Questacon’s galleries are accessible by ramp or a lift. Wheelchairs and prams are available for hire from the ticket desk.
Seating is available in each gallery. The Japan Theatre is wheelchair accessible and has a hearing loop in the first two rows.
A visit to Questacon can be a very stimulating experience. You can find noise cancelling headphones at the Information Desk and in each gallery.
Questacon also runs Access days. these offer a quieter environment for sensory sensitive visitors.
The museum has lift access to each of the three levels. There are also bookable wheelchairs and motorised scooters. There are large-print maps and tactile guides for vision-impaired visitors. You’ll find a hearing induction loop at the Information Desk.
The Tim and Gina Fairfax Discovery Centre is a fun playground for young children of all abilities. Quiet hours are run with reduced noise and sensory experiences. These are held from 3.30–4.45pm on the first Tuesday of the month.
The National Gallery of Australia has a range of free programs for people with disability and access needs. These include tours and workshops. There is an audio induction loop system in:
the main entrance
Gandel Hall
James Fairfax Theatre
Tim Fairfax Learning Gallery.
There are two braille brochures with tactile maps. These are the Gallery and for the Sculpture Garden. The Gallery also runs Sensory Sunday. This free monthly program is ideal for individuals who identify as neurodivergent.
The miniatures village Cockington Green Gardens is an iconic Canberra experience. It is also a wheelchair and walker accessible display.
It has granite paths and walkways. These accommodate a range of equipment. Wheelchairs and mobility scooters are available for hire.
Parliament House is a member of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program. This helps people with a disability or condition that may not be immediately apparent, to voluntarily share their needs for:
assistance
understanding
a helping hand.
Visitors can borrow Hidden Disabilities Sunflower lanyards and pins to wear during their visit.
All public areas of Parliament House are wheelchair accessible.
There is also an accessible toilet and change facility that caters for users with high support needs and their carers.
Events
The Canberra Theatre Centre provides a range of services for different abilities. Its inclusive performances help everyone experience the magic of theatre.
Contact the theatre directly to book tickets if you need assistance with your seating. This can include audio description, mobility or hearing assistance.
The theatre has FM radio assisted hearing units for patrons who need hearing assistance.
Selected performances are professionally signed by Auslan interpreters. Some Relaxed Performances are offered. These have been adapted for a range of audience members, including people with:
autism
sensory sensitivities
communication conditions
learning disabilities.
Heading to an event at Exhibition Park in Canberra? EPIC has accessible car parking spaces across the precinct and near all major buildings.
Extra parking areas may also be reserved depending on the nature and location of the event. All EPIC venues have accessible facilities, including toilets and showers.
Cheer on your favourite sports teams at Manuka Oval and Canberra Stadium. Wheelchair-accessible seating and lift access can help make your visit more comfortable. For guests who have sensory sensitivity, the Brumbies have introduced a Sensory Zone at Canberra Stadium during Super Rugby games.
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Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Harry Potter fans will love Quizzic Alley.
In brief:
Canberra is a haven for those who are into gaming, science, technology and fantasy.
This article lists the city’s most geek-friendly groups, activities and venues.
What makes a geek, you ask? Well, you might proudly identify as a geek if your interests align with any of the following:
technology
comics, manga or anime
niche hobbies (medieval combat, anyone?).
Canberra is a city that welcomes geeks with open arms. From Tuggeranong to Gungahlin, we’ve rounded up the best geek-friendly groups, activities and venues across Canberra.
The Canberra Deep Space Communication Complex (CDSCC) Visitor Centre
The CDSCC Visitor Centre has recently reopened. Visit to learn more about Australia’s role in the exploration of space. While you’re there, see a piece of the moon that’s more than 3.8 million years old.
Questacon
Australia’s National Science and Technology Centre is a fun, educational venue for people of all ages. Don’t miss CURIOSITY: Building Breakthroughs in LEGO® Bricks. It’s a hands-on exhibition that’s open until May 2025.
Geoscience Australia
Discover Earth science and be dazzled by the collection of minerals, fossils and meteorites. Visit the Education Centre for hands-on experiences, including holding a volcanic bomb and peering at glow-in-the-dark minerals.
School of Arms and Armour
Always fancied yourself the hero of a medieval tale? The School of Arms and Armour teaches the martial arts of medieval Europe. Think: fencing, wrestling, armour, swords and daggers.
The Barony of Politarchopolis
The Barony is the medieval Society for Creative Anachronism in Canberra. Some of their regular activities include:
scribes workshops
armoured combat
Ancient Arts Fellowship
If early medieval re-enactment is your cup of tea, the Fellowship is for you. They explore a range of historical activities, including:
Dungeons & Dragons
Dungeons & Dragons ACT is a group that brings together the local Dungeons & Dragons community.
There are weekly Dungeons & Dragons events on Wednesdays at:
Virtual reality
Canberra offers a wide range of VR experiences, from mini games to escape rooms.
Some options include:
Quizzic Alley
Browse Australia’s biggest range of licensed Harry Potter merchandise. While you’re there, you can:
quaff a QBrew
get sorted into your rightful house
try your hand at driving the flying car.
Impact Comics
If a comic store has you acting like a kid in a candy store, you can’t miss Impact Comics. You’ll find a large range of:
kids’ comics
graphic novels
toys and models
Good Games
This shop is a haven for lovers of board games, tabletop games and puzzles. It’s more than just a store: it’s a gathering place for like-minded gamers. They run regular events for fans of:
Star Wars Unlimited
Magic: The Gathering
Jolt Games
Visit this Mitchell store to shop from:
role playing games
tabletop games
trading card games
boardgames
Plus, they have a dedicated gaming area where they host regular game nights and events.
Canberra Geek Markets
It’s more than just a market: it’s a free pop culture extravaganza. Shop for geeky merchandise from local and interstate creators. Meet likeminded geeks, comic artists and cosplayers.
Keep your eye on the Geek Markets website for market dates.
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Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Former WESP participant Zhenjun and Infrastructure Canberra’s Rebekka Bjarnadottir, who hosted Zhenjun’s work placement in 2024.
In brief:
The ACT Government offers the Work Experience and Support Program (WESP) program.
It is for Canberrans from linguistically and culturally diverse backgrounds who do not have meaningful employment.
WESP includes office skills training and ACT Government work placement.
Program applications close on Sunday, 16 February 2025.
Have you heard of the ACT Government’s Work Experience and Support Program (WESP)?
The program is to support multicultural Canberrans who have been out of meaningful employment.
While WESP is highly competitive, many people don’t know it’s available, particularly those new to the ACT.
It runs for 12 weeks, and you still have time to apply for a place.
How could WESP help me?
Through WESP, you will receive free office skills training.
You will also complete a work placement in the ACT Government.
This gives you a chance to:
build your skills and knowledge
experience an Australian workplace
improve your job-seeking confidence
build a network of contacts in the ACT public service.
Former participant Zhenjun says he found the program useful.
“As a new immigrant to Canberra, I found job searching extremely challenging. It was difficult to compete without understanding Australian workplace culture and expectations.”
“WESP has greatly enhanced my employment prospects. It has been a turning point in my career journey in Australia,” he said.
About the program
The program runs full-time over 12 weeks. It includes:
4 weeks of free office skills training at the Canberra Institute of Technology (CIT)
8 weeks of work experience in an ACT Government agency. This is not paid work experience.
Once you finish the program, you will get a Certificate II in Workplace Skills from CIT.
While you will build great contacts, there is no guarantee of a job during or after the program.
Am I eligible?
To apply you must:
come from a culturally and linguistically diverse background
be an ACT resident
be able to commit to the program full-time over the 12 weeks.
have been unemployed, or not in meaningful employment.
If you are not an Australian citizen or permanent resident, you must also have a visa that allows you to: