Celebrate Lake Burley Griffin's 60th Anniversary

Lake Burley Griffin’s 60th anniversary will be marked by a vibrant series of events and activities that honour the lake’s rich historical, cultural, environmental, and recreational significance. 

As a symbol of Canberra’s history and development, the lake has played a central role in shaping the city’s identity, serving as a focal point for both local communities and visitors alike. 
The anniversary celebrations will highlight the diverse ways people have connected with the lake, from its early planning and design to its role as a gathering place for recreation, culture, and conservation. 

This weekend a wide array of activities will invite the community to engage with the lake in new and meaningful ways. From hands-on conservation programs to recreational events on the water, there’s an opportunity to appreciate both the natural beauty and the historical importance of Lake Burley Griffin. 

Guests will also have the chance to explore its deeper stories, reflecting on the Indigenous heritage and the artistic and cultural events that have shaped the lake over the decades. Whether it’s through historical exhibitions, nature explorations, or cultural talks, the 60th anniversary events will offer something for everyone. 

Canberra Yacht Club's Free Catamaran Hire

19 October 11-3pm
Canberra Yacht Club
Cost: Free

Experience the thrill of sailing on Lake Burley Griffin with the Canberra Yacht Club's FREE catamaran hire service! 

This exciting opportunity invites you to explore one of Canberra's most picturesque waterways while enjoying the gentle breeze and stunning scenery. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a beginner, the club offers a variety of catamarans suitable for all skill levels, making it perfect for family outings or a fun day out with friends.

As part of the 60th Anniversary celebrations for Lake Burley Griffin, the catamaran hire not only promises a day of fun but also connects participants with the lake's rich history and cultural significance. It's an opportunity to appreciate the beauty of Canberra while embracing the spirit of adventure that the lake embodies. Bookings essential, secure your spot HERE

Tour Scrivener Dam

30 October & 6 November 12.30pm
Scrivener Dam lookout 
Cost: $17.19 pp

Join an exclusive tour of Scrivener Dam led by NCA Director David Wright, a unique opportunity to explore one of Canberra's most significant landmarks. Delve into the fascinating history and engineering marvel of the dam, which plays a vital role in managing the water supply and flood control for Lake Burley Griffin.

David Wright will share his insights and expertise to bring the dam’s story to life. From its construction to its current significance in environmental management, this tour promises to be both educational and inspiring.

Don't miss your chance to gain a deeper understanding of the dam's impact on the community and the surrounding ecosystem. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor, this tour is an unforgettable way to connect with Canberra's natural heritage. Spaces are limited, so be sure to secure your spot for this enlightening experience at Scrivener Dam. Find out more HERE

Burley Griffin Canoe Club: on and off water activities

19 October 10am – 3pm
The Beijing Garden
Cost: Free

Join the LBG Canoe Club for a day of exciting on and off-water activities (weather permitting). 
Visitors will enjoy a demonstration of ‘Canoe Polo’ and take part in fun challenges like testing their throwing skills while sitting in a canoe polo boat or experiencing what it's like to be in a canoe polo boat themselves.

For those curious about kayaking, there will be opportunities to try out flatwater kayaks or stand-up paddleboards. Participants can also get a feel for an Olympic-style race kayak on wobble boards and erg machines or opt for a less challenging paddle in the recreational fleet.

All equipment, including boats, paddles, and PFDs, will be provided, and registration will take place on the day. Find out more HERE 

Stories from the Depths of Lake Burley Griffin with Tim the Yowie Man

19 October 6-8pm 
Commonwealth Place Jetty
Cost: $79 pp

What better way to celebrate the Lake’s 60th birthday than with a sunset cruise led by Canberra’s very own purveyor of the peculiar, Tim the Yowie Man? Join him on select evenings for a captivating journey filled with tales of hidden caves, mysterious floating coffins, and the sites of notorious dead drops, alongside the lure of buried treasure. You might even catch a glimpse of the elusive Burley Beast lurking beneath the lake's surface.

In case of extreme weather, the tour will be cancelled, and a full refund will be issued. 
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to explore the intriguing stories of Lake Burley Griffin! 
Bookings essential. Purchase Tickets HERE

Canberra Yacht Club: Start of season sail past

20 October 10-2pm 
Canberra Yacht Club
Cost: Free

The Canberra Yacht Club invites you to celebrate the start of the 2024/25 sailing season with its traditional Start of Season Sail Past. 

This ceremonial event will see a parade of yachts and vessels gliding across the lake, offering salutes as they pass by club officials. 

It's a unique spectacle where sailors mark the beginning of their new sailing year in style.
Come witness this age-old maritime tradition, join the community on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin, and experience the excitement of a new season on the water. All are welcome!

Float Your Boat: Traditional boats regatta and display

20 October 10- 3pm

Commonwealth Place Jetty

Cost: Free

Get ready for a spectacular parade of vessels at the ‘Float Your Boat’ Regatta! Watch as these boats, including beautifully restored traditional vessels led by the National Museum’s historic paddle steamer, Enterprise, sail past iconic Canberra landmarks like the National Museum, Regatta Point, the Captain Cook Memorial Jet and the Menzies statue, before mooring at Commonwealth Place. 

The boats will circle Central Basin, adding to the breath-taking display on the lake, before returning to the Canberra Yacht Club at Lotus Bay. Both locations offer unique opportunities for the public to meet boat owners, admire the classic vessels up close, and tour PS Enterprise.

Details of viewing timings:

• Depart Yacht Club – 10am
• Commonwealth Place – 10:30-11:30am
• Canberra Yacht Club – 12-1:30pm

Don’t miss the chance to experience the rich tradition of Australia’s boating heritage. Find out more HERE

Hands-on conservation activities

20 October 10am
Menindee Drive Barton - Behind Clare Holland House, Lake Burley Griffin
Cost: Free

Join Molonglo Conservation group, Waterwatch, ACT Frogwatch & Grevillea Parkcare Group in celebrating the 60th anniversary of Burley griffin!
All ages welcome to join in some conservation activities:
- Bugs of Lake Burley Griffin
Come and explore the hidden ecosystems beneath Lake Burley Griffin! Discover the waterbugs that call lake Burley Griffin home and learn what they can tell us about the waterways of Canberra.
- Frog Tales and Tadpoles
Hop to the ACT and Region FrogWatch display and discover ribbiting facts about our local frogs! Chat with experts about creating frog-friendly gardens, the annual October FrogCensus, tips for identifying Canberra's amphibians, and even learn how to set up a frog sauna. Don’t froget to grab a free "Frogs in Your Pocket" field guide for the ACT! With this guide, you’ll finally be able to identify the croakers in your neighborhood.
- Plant a tree with Grevillea Parkcare Group
Come plant a native tree to enhance our green spaces around the lake and help our animal species thrive. Find out more HERE

For more activities celebrating Lake Burley Griffin see HERE