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Stories

Live your story at Whitlam

Canberra has always been a place to start and a place to grow. Watch as some remarkable people reflect on their Canberra story.

Watch their stories, and start yours at Whitlam.

EPISODE 1

A story of opportunity

Searching for meaningful work for her younger sister with Down Syndrome, Nipuni Wijewickrema began her own floristry business. Nip, as she is affectionately known, even named her store after her sister with GG’s Flowers & Hampers thriving across Canberra – in part thanks to GG’s hugs that come with her deliveries.

View Nipuni's full story

EPISODE 2

A story of persistence

After discovering their love for miniature villages on a family holiday in the UK, Doug and Brenda Sarah returned home inspired to make their own to share with Canberra. Almost 40-years-later Cockington Green remains a beloved treasure now run by their son Mark.

View Mark's full story

EPISODE 3

A story of spirit

A cultural advocate for Canberra, Michael Liu is passionate and dedicated to promoting the Territory’s calendar of arts events. A professional violinist and DJ, Michael has worked on countless music and arts events in the region, from intimate shows to festivals.

EPISODE 4

A story of Community

An advocate for inclusion and a lover of netball, Jonathan Toze wanted a way for the local community to get involved. After creating a tailored program, Jonathan now runs weekly games and skills development through the Tuggeranong Netball Association. He also holds reconciliation events to promote respect for Indigenous Australians and their culture.

EPISODE 5

A story of belonging

Jil Hogan has spent the last 10 years telling everyone just how wonderful Canberra is while working as a writer and journalist. Originally from Brisbane and a world-traveller, Jil found there is no place she’d rather live than the nation’s capital. You’ll find her work throughout The Canberra Times, HerCanberra, the Good Food magazine, Eat Canberra and more.

EPISODE 6

A story of passion

Alongside authoring 100 articles for science magazines, Geoff McNamara is known for inspiring high school students for over 30 years. Geoff was made a member of the Order of Australia for his service to secondary science and astronomy education, and even developed a telescope for teaching that bears his name.