International model Kristy Hinze joined ACT Minister for Tourism, Sport and Recreation, Andrew Barr on Friday to launch Floriade 2010 at Commonwealth Park in Canberra.
Now in its 23nd year, Floriade has grown to become Australia's premier spring festival with more than a million blooms forming a magnificent backdrop to the exciting events and activities that captivate visitors each year," Andrew Barr said.
"Floriade 2010 celebrates creativity and endless possibilities with the theme Imagination: Where will yours take you? This year's program features 30 days of entertainment and spectacular displays.
"Throughout the month of Floriade, the entertainment program will include stellar performances by five-time platinum recording artist Katie Noonan and country music sensation Felicity Urquhart.
"Visitors can experience the Floriade Kitchen Garden, showcase gardens, roving entertainers and the 35-metre giant ferris wheel, providing a fantastic aerial view of Floriade and its picturesque surrounds.
"This year we have some exciting new highlights to inspire the imagination. The Da Vinci Machines Exhibition* will amaze onlookers with over 60 machines based on the original drawings of Leonardo da Vinci.
"The flowers and fashion category takes visitors on a creative journey with two new exhibitions, Once Upon a Time and Imagination and Innovation, while the Lindeman's hanging baskets competition is sure to get the creative juices flowing with great prizes being awarded each weekend to the most creative baskets.
"Floriade NightFest will also make a welcome return, lighting up Canberra evenings with five spectacular nights of live entertainment, music, films on the big screen, food and wine, markets, illuminated garden beds and a special children's section. Garnier World adds an exciting element to this year's event with an unmissable green dome retreat offering complimentary pamper sessions and free gifts from 22 September
"If you haven't done so already, I encourage you to book your NightFest tickets through Ticketek."
Floriade 2010 will bloom in Commonwealth Park from Saturday 11 September to Sunday 10 October. Floriade NightFest runs from Wednesday 22 September to Sunday 26 September 2010.
For further information visit www.floriadeaustralia.com
* The Da Vinci Machines Exhibition is a separate ticketed event within Floriade and Floriade NightFest. Tickets can be purchased onsite from the Da Vinci Machines Exhibition Pavilion and are $20 for adults, $10 for juniors, $15 for concession holders, $50 for a family with two adults and two juniors and $60 for a family with two adults and two concessions.
