Staying active and engaging with everything Canberra has to offer is certainly a challenge at the moment, but not because there’s a lack of things to do.
Whether you need to take on a new activity or skill to soak up some of that newfound free time, or take a moment out of a busy work-from-home day to recentre, Canberrans are answering the COVID-19 call with a whole host of online classes, seminars and community initiatives to keep you going while you stay at home.
All Weekend
Virtual Running Race
Where: The outdoors
When: Any time between Friday and Sunday
If you’re the kind of person who needs that extra bit of motivation to get out for that jog, the TRI Running Group is here to provide the competitive edge you need. Compare your 2.5 km or 5 km times against others on the virtual leaderboard and go in the draw to win a free pair of shoes thanks to Happy Fit Footwear. Although the time trial was conceived to take place out at Mount Stromlo’s iconic running tracks, there’s nothing stopping you from submitting times from your own neighbourhood circuit and comparing against the field.
Sow some seeds
Where: Your garden
When: Anytime
Last week, local veggie guru Joyce Wilkie took us through what she’s planting at the moment and if you’re keen on a winter and early spring harvest of garlic, broad beans, lettuces, greens and more, then now’s the time to get out in the garden. She also gave us a heads-up on what’s currently in season, meaning that you’ll know what to look out for next time you’re picking up fresh produce.
Let’s get physical
Where: Live stream on Club Lime and hiitrepublic
When: Every day, various times
Missing the gym? Lucky for you, Club Lime is live-streaming regular online workouts so you can work up a sweat from the comfort of your own home. Following their normal in-house group fitness classes, they’re offering a wide range of fitness options covering strength, cardio and Pilates. Can’t tune in live? Don’t worry, classes remain online and you don’t even have to be a member to get involved.
Thursday
Learning About COVID-19 Known Unknowns
Where: Register online
When: 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm
If you’re the kind of person who needs every available stat and figure on hand to help them assess a situation like COVID-19, then this webinar is for you. Join the Statistical Society of Australia for an online seminar about the vital role statisticians are playing as the crisis rolls on.
Friday
Rockin The Burrows – Online Music Festival
Where: Live stream Mulgara’s Facebook page
When: Friday night from 6:30 pm
Seven of the country’s most beloved independent musical acts (and one of New Zealand’s) are joining forces for Rockin The Burrows. No matter where your burrow is, you can tune in to this virtual music community on Saturday night. Catch sets from singer-songwriters Jack R Reilly, Jim Dusy, Jamie Leone, Ruth Lorelle and Boots Byers, as well as members of Amends, Nothing Really and carb on carb.
Capital Thrill Festival
Where: Instagram Live. Join the event on Facebook for links to artists’ pages.
When: Friday night from 7:00 pm
An eclectic lineup of local musicians is set to take part in Capital Thrill, an online music festival that lets Canberra artists strut their stuff in the midst of isolation. Punk rock three-piece Slagatha Christie, bedroom pop artist Sesame Girl, and Weirdo Gvng members Ike(from)Pluto and Partyateleven are just some of the acts that will be taking to their Instagram accounts to share music from their kitchens, living rooms and home studios.
Saturday
Music Trivia Night
Where: Book online here
When: 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm
The Bec Taylor School of Music kick off their Holiday Party program this week with an online music trivia night. Prepare your team and go head-to-head with music nerds from around the city via Zoom. Expect the usual music trivia fare with plenty of singing and listening challenges thrown in to keep you on your toes. Entry costs $10 per household, with funds raised going directly to the school’s music tutors.
Virtual Comedy Night
Where: Hosted by Canberra PCYC, book by email
When: 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm
Goulburn comedy sensation Maddy Weeks has made a name for herself in recent years with sold-out shows at the Canberra and Melbourne comedy festivals. Now the Canberra-based comedian will deliver her unpredictable style straight to your screens with a live virtual performance hosted by Canberra PCYC. If anyone can make light of COVID-19, it’s Maddy Weeks.
Namaste In With Balanced Yoga
Where: Hosted on Zoom by Balanced Yoga. Sign up here
When: 11:00 am to 12:00 pm
Suitable for beginners right through to advanced yoga students, Balanced Yoga is bringing its nurturing, community-focused brand of yoga to you. Expect balance, strength and flexibility as you’re led through this one-hour class from your favourite local yoga experts.
Scrapbooking Technique Class
Where: Book in via email
When: 2:00 pm
Working on a hobby or learning a new skill is the perfect way to keep yourself occupied while you ride out your isolation. Why not make use of those piles of old photographs stuck in the back of the cupboard and try your hand at scrapbooking? Get in early and grab a kit ahead of time so that you’ll have everything you need to get the most out of this fun online class.
Sunday
Remote RUC Sunday Soul Session
Where: Tune in via Facebook
When: 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm every Sunday
The iconic RUC Turner Bowls Club isn’t letting the soul spirit die away. Kick back and chill with Liquid Sunshine Sound System on hand to provide your weekend dose of funk, soul and disco vibes. It’s the perfect way to relax and recentre before diving back into another work-from-home week. The best part, it’s BYO.