Media Releases
13 November 2007
GEARING UP FOR THE CENTENARY
Preparations for Canberra’s Centenary in 2013 shift into a higher gear today with the Government committing extra resources for scoping of possible events for the birthday year.
Chief Minister Jon Stanhope has announced the Government will provide $150,000 for further studies in 2007-2008 and an additional $250,000 in 2008-2009 to support preparations for the Centenary.
“With just over five years to go until we celebrate 100 years as the nation’s capital, it is time to start getting a clearer picture of what might be feasible in our Centenary year,” Mr Stanhope said.
“Centenary organisers will investigate a number of events and projects identified in the 2006
Centenary of Canberra Blueprint document, which was the result of intensive community consultation.”
The Centenary Blueprint document lists 165 projects selected to undergo further scoping and feasibility work. These include blockbuster events, community celebrations, projects in the areas of history, heritage, arts and culture, and sporting events.
“The studies will focus on the ACT Government’s preparations for the Centenary,” Mr Stanhope said. “I hope that soon after the federal election has been decided, the Federal Government will be in a position to announce its commitment to the Centenary of this great city - the nation’s capital.
“Meanwhile, this scoping work will help direct the ACT Government’s future funding and resourcing strategies, to ensure that the exciting opportunities presented by the Centenary are maximised.”
