UC EVENTS

Effective community engagement starts with the right tools and approaches—and deliberation offers both. The Deliberative Democracy in Action Masterclasses offer a hands-on introduction to the principles and tools of deliberative engagement—an evidence-based approach that leads to more inclusive, constructive, and legitimate outcomes.Whether you're designing consultations, facilitating conversations, or shaping policy, these masterclasses will equip you with practical strategies to engage communities in ways that build trust and deliver impact. Through these sessions, you'll learn how to:Improve the quality of public engagement by creating spaces where participants feel heard, respected, and empowered to contribute.Broaden the reach of public engagement by designing inclusive processes that engage people from all walks of life—not just the usual voices.Balance diverse perspectives by exploring the trade-offs between competing values and interests.Bridge divisions and disagreements through meaningful dialogue and active listening.Drawing from real-world examples in Australia and around the world, the sessions explore fresh, practical approaches to deliberative engagement.Hosted by the Centre for Deliberative Democracy and Global Governance — a world leader in the study of public participation — this series brings together expert thinkers and practitioners who are helping to reshape democracy for the better. You’ll also have the chance to connect with some of Australia’s leading experts in deliberative engagement and become part of our growing network of practitioners working to make public engagement more meaningful and effective. Wednesday 14 May: RepresentationExplores how democratic ideals such as inclusion and participation are realised in deliberative process. This includes how experts are involved in processes and examines strategies to enhance representation in various contexts such as where there are inherent power inequities.  Participants will master:The different ways to consider representation in deliberative processes and how to design processes that include varied perspectives.An understanding of how inequalities impact deliberation and tools for addressing disparities.How to consider the perspectives of those that cannot participate such as future generations or non-humans.How to design methods that effectively engage experts and apply their knowledge to the deliberative process.Guest speakers – to be announced soon! Thursday 15 May: ImpactExplores how deliberative practices are connected to the wider institutional and political contexts, and the democratic system overall.  This includes an examination of the consequentiality of practices and factors that affect their impact.Participants will master:An understanding of how democratic innovations can be effectively positioned within a policy-making context, systems of governance and existing public participation approaches.An ability to identify varied pathways for impact and how to strategically design deliberative processes that achieve this impact.An understanding of the determinants that influence the legitimacy conferred on deliberative processes, and strategies for how to strengthen legitimacy.Guest speakers – to be announced soon!Friday 16 May: ResilienceExplores how deliberative practices can contribute to building democratic resilience. It will consider deliberation in contexts where there are entrenched special interests, deep power inequalities, or divergent views on possible solutions to complex issues.  This masterclass builds an understanding of both the opportunities and limitations for deliberation to break impasses and generate more broadly accepted policy outputs.   Participants will master:A critical understanding of how deliberation can mitigate extremist threats in contexts where there is deep polarisation, mistrust or disinformation.An ability to design processes that appropriately consider relevant social movement actors and stakeholders.A toolkit of deliberative approaches and design choices that can mitigate division and entrenched views.Guest speakers – to be announced soon!RegistrationParticipants can enrol in each masterclass separately if they are only interested in one or two topics. Alternatively, the masterclasses will run on three consecutive days allowing participants to enrol in all three as an intensive. $385 (incl. GST) per day$990 (incl. GST)  for all three masterclasses Register for:Representation (single day) - Register hereImpact (single day) - Register hereResilience (single day) - Register hereAll three masterclasses - Register hereRegistration includes morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea. CertificateParticipants will be provided a participation certificate from the Centre of Deliberative Democracy and Global Governance.

The UC Medical & Counselling Centre is offering a free, weekly group for UC students who have been diagnosed with, or think they may have ADHD. Led by Senior Psychologist, Vicki de Prazer, this group will look at understanding and developing strategies to manage concentration, attention, and time more effectively, plus the importance of routine and structure in our day to day lives.

University is a great place for reading and learning! How about putting aside some time for learning about Jesus? Reading about Jesus is an opportunity to join with others and read through the Bible’s accounts of Jesus, to discuss and learn together. Held on the WEDNESDAY of each week, 1-2pm, in 1C100 or via Microsoft Teams.Anyone is welcome – you may be a long-time Christian, or just someone (of other faith or no faith) who would like to read about Jesus with others.We are currently holding the activity online using Microsoft Teams, and also meeting in person at the same time in 1C100, as a mixed-mode event.If you are interested in joining the activity please contact the organiser, Craig Johnson, to confirm the online details or location.

We are hosting a mindfulness session on SciTech open to all staff at UC. These will be held on Wednesdays at 2:00 PM in a hybrid format (both face-to-face and online) in Room 6C56.Each session will begin promptly at 2:05 PM and typically runs until around 2:25 PM. The sessions include a short guided meditation focused on simple attention to the breath and bodily sensations. This practice aims to cultivate presence, enhance wellbeing, and improve focus and effectiveness in all areas of life.You can join our Teams Channel by clicking here. We look forward to having you join us.Kind regards,Ehssan

Have you always wanted to try boxing but don’t know where to start? This is the perfect class for beginners or intermediate boxers to put on gloves and start punching the bags. With a mix of cardio and technique-based boxing movements, this class is both fun and challenging! Gloves are provided if you do not have your own. Every Monday, Wednesday & Friday: 4:45pm-5:30pm.Every Thursday lunchtime: 1pm-1:45pm Open to UCFitx members and casual participants. Members can book through the Technogym App, while casuals can sign up by contacting us in Building 29, by phone (6201 2542) or email (ucfit@canberra.edu.au).

Run or WalkAs a group, we start every R4R by walking the first 500m. This is an opportunity to check in with ourselves and each other. After that, you can decide whether you walk 3km or run 6km loopJust aim to be back at the starting point in about 30 minutes.Meeting PointOn Thursday at 8:30am we meet at the Coffee Grounds Cafe, located on the University of Canberra Campus.People usually start arriving 10 to 15 minutes before the starting time for a stretch and chat.If you're coming alone, get in touch and keep an eye out for one of our volunteers.Post-ExerciseAfter exercising we all meet back at starting point for a free drink and chat.

Repair Cafe joins the UCX Food Pantry every Thursday to help students and staff with mending and repairing clothing and some other items. Whether it's  a snagged thread, a little hole or a button that's fallen off, you'll not only have your item repaired, but you'll even pick up some tips on how to repair it next time.Come and give your clothes a new life, and help your favourite items last longer!

UC Medical and Counselling Centre offers a free weekly workshop for UC students to help them develop new skills and tools to tackle the various challenges students face.Each week one of our Psychologists will work with students to manage a range of challenges students face today – such as goal setting, connecting with others, managing stress, and overcoming procrastination.The Weekly Psych Session is presented online via Zoom.  Link: https://zoom.us/j/97664287908?...Links to an external site.Meeting ID: 976 6428 7908Passcode: 595094

Sometimes it is hard to meet new people, or to find opportunities to practise speaking in English. We wanted to provide a chance to help you with this. Our English Conversation Club is an informal time, not a structured class. In a small group, we talk about a different topic each meeting, with a native English speaker. Improve your English by practising your speaking and listening, and make some new friends along the way! Anyone is welcome join this activity. The English Conversation Club is a free activity, and especially for international students or visiting scholars from overseas – but anyone who wants to practise their English is welcome.We are currently holding the English Conversation Club online using Microsoft Teams, and at the same time meeting in person in 1C100, as a mixed-mode event.If you are interested in joining the activity, please contact the organiser, Craig Johnson, to confirm details (times and location can change).

Join us for an exhilarating experience that will leave you energised and empowered! Dance Fitness is designed to make fitness fun, all while learning exciting dance moves in a supportive atmosphere. Whether you're a beginner or an advanced dancer, the instructor will guide you through a fusion of Latin-inspired styles and Afro-Caribbean beats. You'll master new moves while grooving to cool beats.Open to UCFitx members and casual participants. Members can book through the Technogym App, while casuals can sign up by contacting us in Building 29, by phone (6201 2542) or email (ucfit@canberra.edu.au). Every Tuesday & Thursday 5:15pm-6:00pm.

Find out more or register your interest in Swimming for the 2025 UniSport Nationals here- Unisport

Join us in celebrating the International Day Against International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia or IDAHOBIT.Traditionally recognised on May 17, UCLifex, UC Queer Club, UC Thrive, SRC and UC Medical and Counselling are celebrating a day early this year to ensure we can celebrate with YOU.Come down to the Hub, outside the Queer Space (near Cafe Mizzuna), and join us in free food and fun activities. ALL are welcome!

The UCX Food Pantry is providing a free breakfast each week! Come on down before class to the UCX Student Lounge and grab a healthy breakfast to start your day. 

Led by a Licensed Instructor, Mental Health First Aid is a practical skills-based education program that equips people with the skills and confidence needed to recognise and respond to someone they know who may be experiencing a mental health problem or mental health crisis. Grounded in research and guided by the voice of lived experience, this course provides high-quality, safe and proven mental health first aid literacy and skills training to strengthen the support available to all Australians.IMPORTANT INFORMATION TO KNOW (BLENDED COURSE)This course is are presented as blended: a self-paced, eLearning component to be completed before the face-to-face componentIn-person attendance is mandatoryAvailable to UC students onlyLocation: UC Campus, room 02C09- map can be found hereBreaks will be provided (food and drink not provided)At the end of the course, participants can complete an online accreditation assessment to become an Accredited Mental Health First AiderBefore registering for a course - please consider the following: You will receive a voucher via email for your eLearning component 1 week prior (approx.) to the training. The vouchers are purchased and once we email them to you, they are unique to you and cannot be used by another student.This training is free for UC students, however due to upfront costs to the centre we require a firm commitment to attend. If you cannot attend, please cancel you registration or let the centre know at least 1 week prior to the session. Late cancellations may incur a fee of $50.

Take a break from teaching or study and join us every Tuesday from 1pm for our lunchtime group fitness!  Power Conditioning is a fun 45min full-body workout, incorporating various strength and conditioning movements, suitable for all levels.  Designed to improve strength, overall fitness, and mobility.  Get ready to lift, move, and sweat! Open to UCFitx members and casual participants. Members can book through the Technogym App, while casuals can sign up by contacting us in Building 29, by phone (6201 2542) or email (ucfit@canberra.edu.au).

You're invited: Healing from Colonial Harms: Exploring the Responsibility of Settler AustraliansFeaturing The Chosen Son — a memoir by UC Adjunct Professor Leanne Weber — the event offers a unique perspective on the Stolen Generations, told through the lens of a non-Indigenous sibling growing up in 1960s-70s Adelaide with an Aboriginal foster brother.As we approach Sorry Day (26 May), the discussion will explore:• Personal and collective responsibility of settler Australians• The unfinished work of the Bringing Them Home report, including insights from Are you waiting for us to die? by The Healing Foundation• The role of healing and truth-telling in achieving meaningful reconciliationJoining the conversation is Mary Spiers Williams (UTS Law School), who will interview Leanne and provide expert reflections.Date: Tuesday 20 May Time: 2:30-4:00pmRegister Here: https://lnkd.in/gDFd2CK9

Don’t know how to grow veggies and want to learn? Or want to grow and don’t have the space? Then the UCX Connect Up Community Garden wants you!Join the Community of Student Gardeners and learn how to grow produce, plant seasonally, and enjoy eating what you grow! All experience levels welcome. Gardening Bees every Tuesday 4pm-5pm. We've got all the gardening gear you need - just come ready to get your hands dirty.

Australia’s fastest rising indie-rock outfit and loveable larrikins Old Mervs are heading on an absolutely mammoth tour around Australia & New Zealand in 2025.Kicking off in May, the WA duo are celebrating the release of their highly awaited debut album, released 21 March 2025. Recorded with ARIA award-winning producer Chris Collins, the self-titled album features “What You’ve Lost”, “Parched”, “Forget It”, "See You Again", "Everyone One WillSee It" and a stack of new tunes.Old Mervs have quickly become one of Australia’s hottest commodities, charting higher and higher each year in triple j’s Hottest 100 countdowns. Dave and Henry soundtrack life’s growing pains and kaleidoscopic experiences wrapped in catchy hooks and breezy guitars.Old Mervs have four national headline tours under their belt as well as festival slots at some of Australia’s biggest music festivals including Groovin the Moo, Yours & Owls and Splendour in the Grass. The duo have supported huge Australian names as well as international acts including The Wombats and Liam Gallagher. Recently wrapping up their first UK tour, Old Mervs played to packed out venues in London, Manchester and Birmingham and more, and there is more overseas touring planned for 2025.

Grab your cowboy boots and your little black dress as Cody Pennington brings his country show to Australia in May 2025!Get ready for the Cody Pennington Country Show - the only country show starring a true-blue Nashville artist!After two incredible sold-out tours and over 50,000 tickets sold, Nashville native Cody Pennington is bringing his country show to Australia for the first time!Join us for a night of unforgettable country music as we pay tribute to the finest artists in the genre, including Luke Combs, Morgan Wallen, Dolly Parton, and many more. Cody will also be performing his chart-topping originals, including the #1 hit "Downtown" and the #2 "Cowboy Sitting at the Bar."What to Expect:A Tribute to Country Legends, Old and New - Sing along to your favorite country classics as Cody pays homage to the legends who've shaped the genre, both old and new. If you're a country fan, you'll hear something you love!Cody Pennington's Own Hits - Experience Cody's chart-topping tracks live as he takes you on a journey through his musical career.Unforgettable Live Performances - Prepare for an epic night of high-energy entertainment, dazzling lights, and top-notch musicianship.Dancing & Good Times - Grab your partner and dance the night away, or simply sit back and soak in the pure country vibes.Fan Engagement - Cody loves his fans, and he's ready to connect with you like never before. Get ready for some exciting surprises! This is your chance to be part of a country music party like no other.Tickets are sure to disappear faster than a tumbleweed in the wind, so mark your calendar and grab your tickets fast!Let’s make memories, celebrate the heart of country music, and raise the roof at the Cody Pennington Country Show!

Get free tickets to watch the Brumbies home games! Similar to ‘The rUCkus Crew’ that was previously in place for the club, the Stables will become the Brumbies supporters’ group for students in the area, encouraging younger fans to attend Super Rugby Pacific fixtures and enjoy the game of rugby, at discounted prices.The Stables will feature at all our home matches, with a view to creating a more vibrant atmosphere and high-energy experience for young people at GIO Stadium. The group will have a designated area in bay 64 at GIO Stadium, complete with its own DJ booth. There will be other activations to enhance the fan experience for Stables attendees, such as gameday giveaways. Our mission is to create an environment where fans can express themselves, get loud and make a social tradition, as per the ‘The rUCkus Crew’.The Stables will also have special access to pre-game experiences at different sites around Canberra, allowing ticket holders to socialise beforehand, with a food/beverage special offer and appearances from players. There will then be buses provided to travel to GIO Stadium for world-class rugby action. Following the conclusion of matches, Stables members will also have the opportunity to head to events at Bentspoke Brewing Co. in Braddon, with further drinks offers.GET TICKETS: https://bit.ly/stablesUC

Thelma Plum takes her acclaimed "I'm Sorry, Now Say it Back" album countrywide! After a huge 2024 album launch tour selling out some of the countries most prestigious rooms, Thelma Plum and her band hit regional Australia hard on the "Im Sorry, Where is That?" Tour. Thelma plays a huge run of headline dates accompanied by festival shows in some of the most beautiful (and remote) locations, playing a swath of selections from the new album as well as fan faves. Don't miss the chance to see Thelma Plum in these rooms - she cant wait!

Join us in a?conversation between leading researchers and practitioners working to strengthen democracy in Australia and beyond.?Each session will feature a conversation and exchange between academic insights and practical experience, exploring innovative ideas, strategies, and solutions for addressing the challenges facing democracies today. The series aims to showcase the latest research insights and inspire practical approaches to strengthening democracy. Hosted by the Centre for Deliberative Democracy and Global Governance, this monthly hybrid seminar series is designed for both professionals and academics working in the fields of democracy and citizen engagement. Participants will gain a deeper understanding of how research can enhance democratic practice and vice versa, while exploring current challenges that could benefit from further academic inquiry. All seminars will be recorded and made available on Centre’s YouTube Channel. To receive seminar updates, please join our mailing list by emailing us at delibdem@canberra.edu.au 

The Adobe Education Institute is a live web conference for Adobe Creative Campus institutions. Through a series of live, hands-on training sessions, participants will discover ways to deepen student engagement and foster multi-modal teaching using Adobe Express.

We are extremely excited to announce that we'll be hitting the road in support of our new record, Like Love. This run will see us return to many of our favourite venues in the country as well as making it to New Zealand for some of our first ever proper headline shows. The new record has seen us explore a more tender, introspective side of our band and we're excited to redesign our show to accommodate this, as well as all our usual faves for the stage. Joining us in support for the Aussie leg will be our new fave Brissie band, Bean Magazine. We adore them and they're gonna kill it. We couldn't be more pumped to go. We'll see you out there!

Iconic Sydney band The Preatures reunite for a 15-date tour to celebrate the 10th anniversary of their ground-breaking debut album, Blue Planet Eyes. The band will perform the album in its entirety, along with a collection of their much-loved hits, on their upcoming ‘Blue Planet Eyes’ 10th Anniversary Tour.Released in 2014, Blue Planet Eyes introduced The Preatures to the world with its infectious blend of 60s R&B and country-inflected pop-rock. The album garnered widespread critical acclaim, and a devoted global following crossing genres and generations, thanks to its irresistible hooks, timeless sound and standout tracks like ‘Is This How You Feel?’, ‘Better Than It Ever Could Be’ and ‘Somebody’s Talking’. You can expect to hear these songs and more as the band revisit the hits that helped define an era of Australian music.

MG Live and Frontier Touring are beyond pumped to announce legendary Australian hip-hop crew Bliss n Eso 28-date Party on he Moon Tour for this May – Aug! Special guest on all show will be Melbourne rapper, singer and songwriter Ivan Ooze.For over two decades, Bliss n Eso have put on an explosive high-energy live show and the Party On The Moon Tour will be no exception!Making our new album The Moon (The Light Side) was honestly one of the most fun times we've had in the studio in years. We wanted to return to the essence of what made us fall in love with Hip Hop when we were kids - that classic golden era party rocking vibe that originally made BnE. We’ve been blessed to have built up an incredible fan base over the years and when making this album we constantly envisioned playing these new songs and the electric energy they would create between us and the crowd. We’re so pumped to take it to the next level on this tour and to bring this album to life for the first time. It’s time to blast off y’all… cause it’s a PARTY ON THE MOON!” – BlissFull of Bliss n Eso’s classics, rarities and new album tracks, don’t miss Australia's finest hip-hop trio with special guest Ivan Ooze as they bring their electrifying live show to life this May through to August!

Following Illy’s “Good Life”, his 3rd ARIA #1 Aus album, and the huge capital city tour of the same name, comes “The Good-er Life Tour”, mammoth, 27 date party around Australia. With an explosive live show, a litany of certified classics, and an album of new hits, Illy and the band are bringing high octane energy to stages country wide this August to November.

Jumping straight back into another tour to celebrate Half The Laugh and probably play more new songs. Playing more cities this time and with our best mates, The Beefs. Can’t wait to watch their set every night. Greg coming to Canberra and the snow with us also!!