Pause and Catch Up: 30 June
If your week felt like a blur and the news passed you by, don’t worry, you’re not alone. We know the news cycle can feel like it’s always on, always urgent. That’s why we’ve created this gentle check-in: a wellbeing-first way to stay connected to what’s happening in Canberra without feeling overwhelmed.
So pour a cuppa, take a breath, and scroll through what mattered in our city last week. Here’s your moment to pause and catch up.
Top 5 Canberra Headlines
1. Record Grants Empower 71 Canberra Organisations to Meet Rising Community Needs
A record-breaking grant round from the Canberra Foundations Collaborative is set to uplift local communities, with 71 organisations receiving support for 67 diverse projects. Initiatives range from youth leadership programs and domestic violence training to refugee driving schools and culturally safe healing spaces, all aimed at addressing pressing social needs amid rising living costs. This collaborative effort underscores a commitment to grassroots solutions, ensuring that every dollar stays within the region to benefit Canberrans who need it most.
2. Raiders Claim Top Spot After Gritty Win Over Knights
The Canberra Raiders have surged to the top of the NRL ladder following a 22–18 victory over the Newcastle Knights on Friday night. Early tries from Simi Sasagi, Kaeo Weekes, and Ethan Strange gave the Raiders a commanding 16–0 halftime lead, and they held firm despite a late Knights comeback. The match was marred by a foot injury to Newcastle captain Kalyn Ponga, ruling him out of Queensland’s State of Origin decider. Canberra’s win continues their impressive form and cements their status as genuine premiership contenders.
3. ACT Budget Delivers Health and Housing Boost, But Questions Remain
The ACT Government’s 2025–26 Budget promises record investments in health, housing, and infrastructure to support a growing Canberra, with economic growth and a return to surplus forecast by 2027–28. However, while introducing a new health levy to fund rising healthcare costs, questions remain about how cost-of-living pressures and support for the most vulnerable will be addressed in practice.
4. Canberra Mourns Former Speaker and Novelist Greg Cornwell AM
Greg Cornwell AM, a foundational figure in Canberra’s political landscape and a prolific local crime novelist, has passed away at the age of 87. Serving as Speaker of the ACT Legislative Assembly from 1995 to 2001, Cornwell was instrumental in shaping the territory’s early self-government era. Beyond politics, he authored the John Order series, blending his legislative insights with fictional intrigue, leaving a lasting legacy in both public service and literature.
5. Wally Wallett Becomes First Woman to Play 200 AFL Canberra Games
Hannah “Wally” Wallett has etched her name into AFL Canberra history, becoming the first woman to play 200 First Grade games. Starting as a teenager in 2010 with no prior experience in Australian Rules Football, Wallett's 14-season journey with the Belconnen Magpies includes two Club Best and Fairest awards, multiple seasons as the league’s leading goal kicker, and a 2020 Premiership win. Now also serving as the only woman coaching a First Grade women's team in AFL Canberra, her milestone reflects not just athletic excellence but a legacy of leadership and community impact.
Suburb-by-Suburb Snapshot
Here’s what’s happening closer to home, because sometimes it’s the smaller stories that shape our day-to-day lives.
Inner South: Springbank Island gets a green makeover
Springbank Island in the Inner South is looking a little bare lately as part of planned regeneration works. Managed by the National Capital Authority, the project has seen 65 new trees planted and invasive weeds cleared to restore native habitats and improve amenity for visitors. Locals can expect a healthier, more resilient landscape as these plantings establish.
Belconnen: New Macquarie murals celebrate local geology
Belconnen’s Macquarie shops are sporting new murals by artist John Voir. The stunning works capture the beauty of Feldspar Geodes found in the neighbourhood, blending geology with art to brighten the shopping precinct. Residents have praised the murals for adding colour and local character to their daily visits.
Gungahlin: Gungahlin food van favourite announces closure
In Gungahlin, beloved food van The G Spot has announced its temporary closure this week. Known for its warm service and hearty meals, the team shared they will be back soon but needed a short break. Locals are already looking forward to its return to the community food scene.
Tuggeranong: Petition calls to keep WWVP Cards free for volunteers
Member for Brindabella Laura Nuttall MLA has sponsored a petition to keep Working With Vulnerable People Cards free for volunteers. The ACT Government is proposing an $11 fee, prompting concerns from community organisations that it will create an additional barrier to engaging volunteers. The petition highlights the vital role volunteers play in supporting vulnerable Canberrans.
Woden: Woden underpass reopens with safety upgrades
The Melrose Drive underpass in Woden has re-opened after being closed due to a vehicle fire last year. Upgrades include structural reinforcement, installation of bollards to prevent unauthorised vehicle entry, and new LED lighting to improve safety and visibility for pedestrians and cyclists. Commuters are welcoming its return as a key walking and cycling link in the precinct.
Inner North: Lyneham courts host ACT Netball Championships
Lyneham was alive with netball action over the weekend as it hosted the ACT Netball Championships for 11 and 12-year-olds. Canberra Netball Association won the 11 years Division 1 title, while Tuggeranong Netball Association claimed victory in the 12 years Division 1, with both teams defeating South Canberra Netball Association in the finals. The event showcased the depth of young netball talent across the region.
That’s your week in review.
Support your local. Celebrate the wins. Speak up for change. And as always, we’ll be here to help you pause & catch up next week. 💛
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