March 14

Hello Canberra,

Hello Canberra,

🌦️ Weather: 29° and partly cloudy. A cool change in the afternoon with showers (90% chance).

📆 Today: It’s Thursday 14th March

News: Vinnies to Take Over Green Shed

The Green Shed’s contract to run the Mitchell and Mugga Lane recycling depots has not been renewed. St Vincent de Paul Society Canberra/Goulburn was chosen as the preferred option. The Green Shed founders say they’re devastated and plan to retire. The two Civic shops, which are not part of the contract, are also expected to close.

Vinnies has said all 84 staff will be invited to transfer their employment. A number of operators, including Revolve and Aussie Junk, have run the recycling business in the past.

News: 👨‍🍳 Ottoman to Reopen

Popular Canberra dining institution Ottoman is set to reopen in May. Ottoman closed its doors during a COVID lockdown and never reopened. The original Ottoman opened in Manuka over 20 years ago and later moved to Barton. This celebrated Turkish restaurant has been a consistent presence in the Good Food Guide, earning numerous accolades over the years.

This Weekend: Capital Region Farmers Markets Turns 20

The Capital Region Farmers Markets at EPIC is turning 20. This week, there will be birthday celebrations at the markets, with kids' activities including face painting, a birthday cake competition, and exclusive merch, including 20th Birthday produce bags. Details here.

🚌 Free Public Transport for Skyfire

Public transport across Canberra will be free from 5 p.m. on Saturday until the last service of the night. Shuttle buses will also run from the City and Woden to the event, and they will run in the opposite direction after the fireworks.

The ACT Government were criticised for not providing public transport options after the weekend Symphony in the Park event. There will definitely be public transport options available for Skyfire, and the buses (rapid) and light rail will operate past midnight. With 120,000 people attending and numerous road closures, parking around the lake will be very limited. Details here.

This Weekend: 🪛 Hawker Community Repair Cafe

The quarterly Hawker Repair Cafe is this Sunday. Everyone is welcome to come along and get help with repairs. Volunteers will help repair toys, small electrical items, lawn mowers, bikes, clothes, and more. There will also be a volunteer from the Apple Users Group to help with Apple devices. Details here.

This Weekend: Little Burley Market at Skyfire

The Little Burley Market will be running on Saturday between 2pm and 8:30pm to coincide with Skyfire. The markets will be running between the flags in Commonwealth Place and will feature many stores with food, handmade gifts and more.

The regular Little Burley morning market will not be running this Saturday.

🌻 Sunflower Maze to Close this Weekend

The Sunflower Maze at Majura Farm will close on the 17th. Unfavourable weather conditions, including scorching heat, haven’t been kind to the sunflowers. The operators are looking to close the maze while it still “looks fabulous.” You’ll still be able to see the Sunflowers this weekend. Details here.

This Weekend: 🇩🇪 Autumn German Markets

The Harmonie Club’s Autumn market is on this Sunday from 9am to 1pm. There will be boutique stores selling German deli delights, live entertainment and of course the popular German sausages. Details here.

Sport: Raiders v Tigers

The Raiders will take on the Tigers at Canberra Stadium this Saturday at 3pm. Tickets here.