12 March 2013
will be an important day,
not only for Canberrans,
but for all Australians.
It marks 100 years
since Lady Denman,
wife of the then
Governor General,
announced the name of
Australia's new capital
at a
Foundation Stone Ceremony.
* Centenary Vision
All Australians proudly celebrate the Centenary of Canberra, the nation’s capital - a city that symbolises our freedom, spirit, achievements and aspirations.
Eminent Australian and former Australian Governor-General, Sir William Deane, has accepted an invitation from the Task Force, to become the Centenary of Canberra Patron. His acceptance of the role, will greatly assist in establishing the relevance and importance of the event for all Australians.
Sir Willam first came to Canberra with his parents in 1933, and he and Lady Deane have taken up residence here in their retirement.
Sir William is held in universally high regard, both for his role as Governor-General (1996-2001) and for his 13 years as a Justice of the High Court of Australia.
He looks forward to making a positive contribution, and encouraging Australians everywhere, to join him in sharing the vision of Canberra 100.
* Canberra History
12 March 2013 will be an important day, not only for Canberrans, but for all Australians. It marks 100 years since Lady Denman, wife of the then Governor General, announced the name of Australia's new capital at a Foundation Stone Ceremony.
The land occupied by Canberra, had a long history prior to 1913, as the home of the Ngunnawal people. Canberra, the only Capital City in Australia with a name believed to be drawn from Aboriginal language, was a meeting place for people from the Ngunnawal, Ngarigo and Walgalu language groups.
The Canberra and District Historical Society; the National Archives; and An Ideal City websites, are all good places to learn more about Canberra's history.
* Key Documents
In 2004, Australian Prime Minister, John Howard, and ACT Chief Minister, Jon Stanhope, agreed that their Governments would work together, to coordinate Centenary Celebrations that were worthy of the national capital.
Blueprint
A summary on how Canberra's centenary will be celebrated.
Task Force Report and Interim Strategy
The full strategy and program of events and activities for 2013.
Discussion Paper
This Discussion Paper was launched by the Task Force in October 2005 to support a two-month consultation program.
* Getting Involved
The Task Force encourages people to become involved in the planning and implementation of activities over the months and years leading up to 2013.
For further information, or to register your interest or ideas, email Canberra100@act.gov.au or phone 13 22 81.
Alternatively you can write to:
The Centenary of Canberra Task Force,
GPO Box 158
Canberra ACT 2601
