Wondering what’s happening in and around Ginninderry this August? Here’s your guide to everything you need to know.

From botanical fine art drawing classes to pole dancing championships and roller fitness, it’s time to strap on your skates and zoom into the final month of winter!

CIT Student Exhibition

This is a captivating exhibition that celebrates the creativity and talent of visual art students from the Canberra Institute of Technology. Featuring a dynamic range of paintings, drawings, and prints, this collection offers a glimpse into the diverse artistic expressions and innovative approaches of emerging artists.

Showcasing the dedication, passion, and creativity of the next generation of artists, bursting with vibrant colours, intricate details, and unique perspectives, each artwork invites the viewer on a visual journey.

Showing until Sunday 18 August | The Link, 1 McClymont Way, Strathnairn | More information here.

Botanical art with Margaret Saul

Enter a space where art and plants intertwine. Join artist Margaret Saul and a small class of 10 students for some personal instruction on observational drawing, colour mixing, brush skills, painting techniques, and creating captivating compositions. Having developed a passion for teaching in the field of botanical art since 1978, Margaret founded two successful botanical art and illustration schools in Australia and the USA. This class is free.

Wednesday 14 August  | The Link, 1 McClymont Way, Strathnairn | More information here.

Bushwackers launch new album

The iconic Australian band that brought us “I am Australian” is launching their latest album, The Great Australian Lap, at a special concert at Belco Arts presented by Smith’s Alternative.

Formed in 1971, The Bushwackers have a storied career spanning over five decades. The band has released 26 albums, won three Golden Guitar Awards, been inducted into the Roll of Renown, and published six songbooks.

Saturday 17 August at 7pm | Belconnen Arts Centre, 118 Emu Bank, Belconnen | Tickets $49 or $44 concession  here.

The Gumnuts

The Gumnuts (or Nutters) is an artists’ collective that meets weekly to paint and draw in a mutually supportive atmosphere.

Catch their exhibition at The Link this month!

From Tuesday 20 August to Sunday 29 September | The Link, 1 McClymont Way, Strathnairn | More information here.

Repair Café 2024

Held on the first Sunday of every month at The Link Building by SEE-Change and Kippax Uniting Church, this is your opportunity to work with repairers to learn how to mend anything from clothing, lamps, toasters, kettles, smartphones, and more.

Have nothing to repair? Head along to learn some new skills – like knitting, sewing, mending, and crocheting. It is fun, relaxing, social, and makes you feel good. All welcome, just drop in!

Sunday 4, 11, 18, 25 August, 1 pm to 3:30 pm | The Link, 1 McClymont Way, Strathnairn | More information here.

Regional Pole Championships

The ACT and Regional NSW Pole Championships return in 2024 to Belconnen Arts Centre in Canberra. Witness the best of the best of ACT  and Regional NSW in the Professional, Amateur, Group, and Battle categories as they compete for the prestigious title of ACT and Regional NSW Pole Champion.

The event promises an exhilarating showcase of strength, flexibility, and creativity. Support the vibrant ACT & Regional NSW pole dance community and experience an unforgettable evening of spectacular performances.

Saturday 3 August from 7 pm | Belconnen Arts Centre, 118 Emu Bank, Belconnen | Tickets here.

Sunday Crafternoons at Café Stepping Stone

Whether you’re keen on knitting, scrapbooking, painting, or DIY decor, there’s something for everyone. Connect with fellow craft enthusiasts in a relaxed, inspiring environment every other Sunday. Share ideas, learn new techniques, or simply enjoy the company of like-minded individuals. It’s all about having fun and being creative!

Feel free to bring your own project that you’re working on or start something new. Some basic materials are provided, but you’re encouraged to bring any additional or special materials you wish to use.

Sunday 4 and 18 August, 2 pm – 4 pm | Café Stepping Stone Gullifer Street Straithnairn | More information here.

Murrook

Created by multi-disciplinary artist and Worimi woman Krystal Hurst, Murrook features bush-dyed fabrics, basketry, and adornments, entwined into wearable art.

Created in response to the coastal land and seascapes of Worimi and Biripi Country, it’s a self-exploration of being in a state of happiness and the artist’s experiences of the “happy place” within self and Country.

Exhibited until Sunday 25 August | Belco Arts, 118 Emu Bank, Belconnen | More information here.

Respecting Country

William Walker is a Wahlubal artist of the Bundjalung nation whose work focuses on the deep and spiritual connection his people and ancestors have to the land.

Mostly painting landscapes that depict what life was like during the Dreamtime – from hunting and gathering to protecting the animals and the land –  William hopes that his work will give people an understanding of the intricate systems that are in place and the importance of protecting and preserving them.

Exhibited until Sunday 25 August | Belco Arts, 118 Emu Bank, Belconnen | More information here.

Bloodlines

Created by Wiradjuri woman, weaver, writer and activist Jessika Spencer, Bloodlines intends to represent a visual journal entry that pays homage to the past, present, and future.

Exploring life as a young Blak woman – demonstrating how that is both heavy and light at the same time – the weaver, writer, and activist emphasises themes of decolonisation, feminism, matriarchy, and a deep refusal to settle into colonial ways.

Exhibited until Sunday 25 August | Belco Arts, 118 Emu Bank, Belconnen | More information here.

Roll your way into fitness

Strap on your skates and join RollerFit instructors Matt and Amelia (@two_wheelers on Instagram) and Zeb (@zebbyzbliss on Instagram) to learn the amazing style of roller dance! Roller dance, also known as rhythm skating, has deep roots in Black North American culture. This unique style combines different steps, turns and individual moves to get multiple skaters flowing and moving in synch. It’s a sure way to get fit!

Saturday 31 August,  4:30 – 6:00 pm | Belco Arts Dance Studio, 118 Emu Bank, Belconnen | More information here.

Get your photos ready for Threatened Species Day

Entries for the National Threatened Species Day Open Photographic Exhibition, presented by Gungahlin Arts and Wildbark close in on 18 August. September 7 is National Threatened Species Day – an opportunity to shine a light on our at-risk Australian native plants and animals and celebrate the many important conservation activities being undertaken by scientists and our community to protect these species and their habitats.

Photographers of all ages and abilities from around Australia are invited to submit up to three images for inclusion in the exhibition. Photographs must relate to the theme of National Threatened Species Day – by featuring threatened Australian plants and animals, the habitats and ecosystems that support them, or conservation initiatives aimed at protecting them.

Entries due 18 August, exhibition runs September to December | More information here.

Tap into your zen with yoga classes

Get bendy during Thursday evenings at a yoga class! You don’t need any experience – just head along for the slow-flow class that will help melt away tension, build strength and mobility, and give you a chance to recharge. Take along a yoga mat, water bottle and comfy clothes.

Every Thursday, 6.45 pm – 7:45 pm | The Link, 1 McClymont Way, Strathnairn | More information here.

Reclamation: Stories of Thrivival

Reclamation: Stories of Thrivival is an eclectic, evocative, and unique collection of mixed media works by First Nations artist, Wallabindi Dickerson.

Drawing inspiration from her memories and her own lived experiences – as well as those of her ancestors – this collection of works are statements of reclamation, creating a multifaceted journey that oscillates dreamily between past, present, and future.

Exhibited until Sunday 25 August |  Belco Arts, 118 Emu Bank, Belconnen | More information here.

Yurwang Bullarn

Strong Women’s Group is a community group held at West Belconnen Child & Family Centre for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women living on Ngunnawal Country.

Collaborating to develop new work through a series of ceramic sessions, people are invited to see the exhibition and explore their ideas through clay and ceramics. Yurwang Bullarn is the culmination of their investigations exploring and celebrating their cultural identity and heritage.

On display until Sunday 25 August | Belco Arts, 118 Emu Bank, Belconnen | More information here.

Fitness in The Park

Fitness class for all levels of fitness for the whole community.

Join local resident Vince as he takes you through a group fitness class in the fresh air at Paddys Park.

Every Wednesday, 6.30 pm – 7.30pm and every Sunday 7.30 am – 8.30 am | Paddy’s Park, Asimus Avenue, Strathnairn | Find out more here.

Guided Conversation Corridor Walk

Ever wanted to know more about the Ginninderry Conservation Corridor? Join the Ginninderry Conservation Trust Rangers as they take you along one of the Walking Tracks to learn about the site and all the plants and animals that call the Corridor home.

These are moderate-level walks along an earthen track, so please wear suitable footwear and clothing for the conditions. BYO water, hat, sunscreen, and snacks.

Sunday 10 August, 10 am to 11:30 am | The Link, 1 McClymont Way, Strathnairn | Register here.

Tap into your zen with yoga classes

Get bendy during Thursday evenings at a yoga class! You don’t need any experience – just head along for the slow-flow class that will help melt away tension, build strength and mobility, and give you a chance to recharge. Take along a yoga mat, water bottle and comfy clothes.

Every Thursday, 6.45 pm – 7.45 pm | The Link, 1 McClymont Way, Strathnairn | More information here.

Have a yarn with Good Omen Goodeze

Want to learn a new skill or get back into a hobby you used to love? Local community needle craft group Good Omen Goodeze is hosting an afternoon full of knitting and crochet—and you’re invited.

Pop in for a cup of tea and a chat with the passionate members and use the opportunity to make something special to take home or to donate to those in need at the Canberra Hospital. All supplies are provided – you just need to bring yourself!

Every Friday afternoon, 1pm to 3pm | The Link, 1 McClymont Way, Strathnairn | More information here.

OMJ Strength for Women

Welcoming all fitness levels, Oh My Jog is a business dedicated to helping women improve their mental well-being and physical fitness.

Join this women’s-only 45-minute whole-body strength and cardio group session at the outdoor gym located near Jill Landsberg Park where certified fitness coach Sara will lead you through a workout. Suitable for beginnings, numbers are limited, and registration is essential.

If you have any questions, contact Sara on 0406 375 887.

Every Monday, 6:15 am to 7 am | Jill Landsberg Terrace Fitness Park, Jill Landsberge Terrace, Strathnairn | Register here.

Silent Book Club @ Café Stepping Stone

Taking place monthly, this Silent Book Club is open to everyone, with no fees or age limits. You can engage with others as much or as little as you like! Unlike traditional book clubs, there’s no assigned reading or discussion, just a peaceful space to read your book among fellow book lovers.

Here’s how it works: Arrive, settle in with a drink, and maybe share what you’re reading, spend a quiet, undisturbed hour reading, and then socialise (or continue reading if you prefer). Bring your current read, order your favourite beverage, and enjoy some uninterrupted reading time.

Sunday 21 July, 2 pm to 4 pm | Café Stepping Stone, Gullifer Street, Strathnairn | Register here.

Evening Taekwon-Do to wind down after a busy day

If you want gentle exercise but not first thing in the morning, Patrick Steele, is also taking evening Taekwon-Do classes at The Link. The class is aimed at beginners of all ages from pre-school age and over—adults are also most welcome and are encouraged to join in with their children. Of course, anyone with TKD experience is also very welcome.

With no experience necessary—the class will accommodate fitness levels of all sorts, from those with a high degree of fitness and flexibility to those who don’t. After all, we all have to begin somewhere!

Mondays between 6 pm – 7 pm | The Link, 1 McClymont Way, Strathnairn | More information here