PAUSE & CATCH UP: 12 May 2025

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 (Week Ending 11 May)

Democracy Sausages Save the School Year
Canberra voters turned up in droves—and not just for the ballots, but for the BBQs. Local P&Cs raised sizzling funds, with most earning over $2,000 and some flipping more than 1,000 sausages. Volunteers brought the vibes, welcoming new faces and smashing fundraising goals. That democracy sausage you inhaled? It’s funding better gear for your local school.

Free Pop-up Influenza Vaccination
The ACT Government has launched a series of free pop-up influenza vaccination clinics for children aged 6 months to under 5 years, making it easier for busy families to access protection against serious illness. Located across Belconnen, Gungahlin, Central Canberra, Tuggeranong, and Weston Creek, the clinics offer walk-in and after-hours options to fit around work and childcare schedules. This initiative supports families during flu season and forms part of the Territory’s broader commitment to accessible, high-quality healthcare.

Lifeline Gala was more than the black ties
The Lifeline Canberra Gala brought together a sparkling room of community supporters, but the true impact was felt in the moments of stillness, when the room fell silent to honour the power of one life-saving phone call. Held to raise vital funds for Lifeline Canberra, the event reminded guests that behind every outfit and auction bid is a story of hope, help, and human connection. With demand for crisis support rising, the Gala reaffirmed how collective generosity keeps this essential service going, every hour of every day.

Momentum to save Philip Pool
The community campaign to save Phillip Pool continues to gather momentum, with locals voicing just how vital the pool is to Canberra’s southside wellbeing. From swimming lessons and rehabilitation to social connection and summer relief, residents say the facility is more than just a place to swim—it’s a community hub. As pressure mounts for long-term investment, advocates are urging the ACT Government to commit to preserving the pool’s future for the next generation.

Bean counting continues
The federal seat of Bean in the ACT remains undecided, with Labor incumbent David Smith and independent challenger Jessie Price locked in an exceptionally close contest. With approximately 89.5% of the vote counted, Smith holds a narrow lead of just 124 votes, standing at 50.1% to Price's 49.9% in the two-candidate-preferred count . The final outcome hinges on the counting of remaining postal, absentee, and declaration votes, which are expected to be tallied in the coming days.

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.

TUGGERANONG: A Champion in the Making
The Tuggeranong community rallied behind one of their own, raising an incredible $2,000 to support local teen Misha as she prepares to represent Australia at the Montesilvano Futsal Cup in Italy. The Burns Club was buzzing as the Tuggeranong Buffaloes Old Boys hosted a special raffle packed with prizes, laughs, and plenty of meat trays. Thanks to the generosity of locals, sponsors like React Group, and the support of our fabulous volunteers, Misha’s dream is now that much closer. Huge congrats to all the prize winners; especially the young lad who scored the case of beer (which I am sure was added to his Mothers Day gift).

WODEN VALLEY: Blue Wash Brilliance at Home
Woden was awash with AFL footy pride on the weekend as the Woden Blues pulled off a clean sweep across all grades, securing three wins from three games. From a dominant performance by the women's team to a gutsy nail-biter from the reserves, and a clinical four-quarter effort by the seniors, the club showed what united, hard-hitting footy looks like. Supporters turned out in full force, creating a sea of blue and lifting the energy at every bounce. The Woden Blues are riding high—and taking that momentum into next week’s match.

BELCONNEN: Serving Up Community Spirit
Belconnen represents at the buzzing Mother’s Day Classic with local Belconnen Lions Club firing up the BBQ and serving breakfast to hundreds of participants. With sausages sizzling and smiles all around, the Lions brought warmth and energy to an event that honours women impacted by breast cancer. Whether they were long-time members or helpful "ring-ins," the volunteers showed exactly what community care looks like, one breakfast roll at a time. Big thanks to the Lions for making the day even more special for mums, runners, and supporters alike! (Also hope we didn’t have to remind you it was Mothers Day on the weekend—call your Mum!)

GUNGAHLIN: Playing with Purpose for Pink Round
Over the weekend, South Gungahlin Netball Club took to the courts not just to compete, but to raise awareness during North Canberra Netball Competition’s Pink Round. This year, the spotlight was on Blue—a beloved supporter whose personal breast cancer journey reminded the whole community that this disease doesn’t discriminate by gender or age. With pink ribbons, cupcakes, and heartfelt stories, players and families united to support breast cancer awareness and the vital work of organisations including Breast Cancer Network Australia. Gungahlin showed once again that sport is about more than the scoreboard, it’s about standing together.

INNER NORTH: After Dark, Canberra’s Culture Needs Light
In the heart of the Inner North, local venues like Bar Beirut are doing it tough, facing rising costs, shrinking crowds, and the constant hum of construction. Despite this, hospitality leaders are rallying to keep Canberra’s nightlife alive, calling for a dedicated night-time economy co-ordinator to better support live music, bars, and creative spaces. From Garema Place to O’Connor, venue owners say without focused, coordinated action, the city risks losing its after-dark charm and the artists, students, and young professionals that bring it to life. As discussions heat up in the Assembly, it’s clear the Inner North isn’t short on passion, just in need of a little more support to help the good times keep rolling.

INNER SOUTH: Calling for Care, Not Cuffs
In the Inner South this week, community leaders have raised serious concerns about the treatment of Aboriginal young people in Canberra’s justice system. Julie Tongs OAM, CEO of Winnunga Nimmityjah Aboriginal Health and Community Services in Narrabundah, spoke out about the ongoing trauma inflicted when Aboriginal teenagers are over-policed and under-supported. Her call is clear: we need a justice system grounded in care, culture, and connection—not punishment. The Inner South is home to some of the Territory’s most powerful voices for change, and this week reminded us that true community wellbeing starts with listening, dignity, and ensuring all our young people are safe.

That’s your week in Canberra—with care, context, and connection.

If this helped you feel more grounded, forward it to a friend who might need the same. And if you have a story, update, or idea you’d love to share—just hit reply or tag us @PurposeMediaCBR. We’re here for the people, places and purpose that make Canberra home.

With calm curiosity,
The Purpose Media CBR Team
Real news. Lived stories. Local care.