By Rama Gaind.
Australia’s biggest celebration of spring, Floriade, will come to an end on Sunday, 14 October after delighting tourists to Canberra for a month. Floriade has been in bloom in Commonwealth Park.

Floriade, Australia’s biggest celebration of spring, which once again included more than a million planted bulbs and annuals, comes to an end in Commonwealth Park, Canberra, on Sunday, 14 October.
Floriade hasn’t just celebrated the start of spring and the blossoming of more than one million bulbs and annuals, it has also marked the best of Pop Culture! Thousands have revelled in an impressive array of retro-inspired flowerbeds and a festival program that’s brimmed with live music, horticultural displays and unmissable entertainment.
It’s been a delight for those with green thumbs, floral aficionados and backyard gardeners.
This iconic Canberra event will feature the popular Dogs’ Day Out on the final day, which this year has a superhero dress-up Pop Culture theme.
Dog owners are being encouraged to start thinking now about costumes for their pooches. Some suggestions have included Wonder Woman, Batman, Superman and the Avengers that will make for some stunning photos.
Floriade’s Ultimate Superhero Dogs’ Day Out event will take place from 9.30am-
5.30pm on 14 October. What better way to celebrate our furry friends!
All pups, big and small are invited to soak up the sunshine and explore Floriade with special dog-friendly activities and entertainment throughout the day including presentations, a superhero costume contest, food and beverage for pups and owners, appearances by celebrity pups Avalon and Maluka (The Adventures of Avalon and Maluka) and more.
Grab all your look-alike fur buddies and be part of a Breed Group Photo on the beautifully manicured lawns. Don’t worry if your breed isn’t included – get a group together of the same breed and come along at anytime to be part of the fun! Plus, don’t forget the Superhero Photo Booth where you can take photos all day long!

This year’s 31st Floriade ends in Canberra on October 14 and one of the highlights is the Ultimate Superhero Dogs’ Day Out event from 9.30am-5.30pm on Sunday.
Alternatively, sit back and relax at Pooch Bar with a brew and a ‘doggie beer’ for your four-legged friend, whilst witnessing Canberra’s best groomers create the most unique and funky haircuts with spectacularly wacky colouring … a site for all to see!
More than just a flower show, Floriade also features a diverse program of regional produce, market traders, kids’ activities and workshops covering everything from craft to horticulture and photography.
New this year was a focus on Canberra region food, wine, beer and spirits with Pialligo Estate, Contentious Character, Capital Brewing Co and Underground Spirits onsite.
You still have time to attend this year’s 31st Floriade and indulge in the wonder of blooms, food and entertainment. While you’ll enjoy the time spent and memories made, you will be able to pursue your interest in wanting a memento of your time spent tiptoeing through the tulips (and pansies, violas, irises, geraniums, chrysanthemums).
Hopefully Floriade 2018 has delivered an unforgettable experience for all the right reasons.
Floriade – a free entry event – is now in its third decade, starting off as a floral tribute to mark Australia’s Bicentenary in 1988 and Canberra’s 75th anniversary.
Spring into the Balgownie Estate Vineyard Resort & Spa

Make the most of the special spring leisure deal for two at the award-winning Balgownie Estate Vineyard Resort & Spa in the Yarra Valley.
Spring is here and there is no better place to enjoy the new growth and sunny weather than in the picturesque surrounds of Victoria’s Yarra Valley.
Balgownie Estate Vineyard Resort & Spa is making this all possible as the award-winning resort has just released a special spring leisure deal for two from only $235.00 per night.
The deal includes:
- One night’s accommodation in a one-bedroom spa suite
- $50.00 voucher at the onsite restaurant – Rae’s Restaurant
- Wine tasting
This offer is for a mid-week booking only, is subject to availability and limited to specified room type only. Travel period is until November 2018.
With this deluxe package guests will enjoy the ultimate indulgence as they relax and recoup in the stunning surrounds of the Yarra Valley and neighbouring vineyards.

The spring leisure deal for two from $235.00 per night is available for midweek bookings at the Balgownie Estate Vineyard Resort & Spa until November 2018.
As the only resort in the Yarra Valley that has a spa retreat and restaurant – there is plenty to keep guests occupied in one prime location.
From exploring the nearby walking trails, a game of giant chess on the Balgownie lawns, a swim in the gym or a hit of tennis … there is something for everyone at Balgownie Estate.
The onsite restaurant is open seven days a week for breakfast, lunch and dinner offering an indulgent menu using high quality and local produce. Experienced waiters will also recommend which wines best compliment meals.
So, whether it is a girlie getaway you are after or a romantic retreat during the beautiful spring season, then look no further than Balgownie Estate Vineyard Resort & Spa.
DETAILS BOX
Floriade 2018
Commonwealth Park
Canberra
Ends Sunday, 14 October
Balgownie Estate Vineyard Resort and Spa
1309 Melba Highway
Yarra Glen
T: (03) 9730 0700