Digital Version - Federation Centenary Fountains Side Gardens

As the National Capital Authority continues with works that are reimagining the Federation Centenary Fountains, we approach readiness to transform the side pools into garden beds.

The preparation for this work is almost complete, and we invite you to help us shape the look of the garden beds. The NCA has worked closely with landscape architects to develop 3 different garden bed layouts.

Each of these layouts represent and compliment the environment where the fountains are located, while staying sympathetic to the heritage of the area.

To continue with the symmetry throughout the National Triangle, the same garden bed layouts will be used for both sides.
Your connections and experiences in the National Triangle, in particular with the Federation Centenary Fountains, can help guide and shape your thoughts on how this beautiful space can be reimagined.

The plant selection

As part of the research into the design of the garden beds, time was taken to investigate the different plants that would bring the layouts to life.

A mix of native plants represent a continued reminder of what Federation Centenary Fountains were as well as providing connection to Australian history and the site’s national significance. Some of the plants selected also feature in other gardens in the National Triangle.

• The native grasses Microlaena stipoides, Poa sieberiana, Themeda australis and Carex appressa, will bend, weave and move just like wind creates ripples through a pond.
• There are bursts of yellow with Microseris lanceolata, Craspedia globosa, Xerochrysum viscosum and Bulbine bulbosa that will bring back memories of the sun dancing across the surface of the ponds throughout the day.
• The Brachyscome multifida, Pimelea linifolia, Leucochrysum albicans, Wahlenbergia ssp, compliment with white, purple and blue flowers. They are reminders of Federation Centenary Fountains being at the center of Australia’s bush capital.
• Finally, the Xanthorrhoea glauca – feature planting - invigorates memories of the original features of the side pools, paying tribute to the original “wedding cake” fountain heads.
   

The 3 Garden Bed Layouts

Option 1
This garden bed layout is an extension of the Parliament House Vista and land axis that the Parkes Place precinct is known for. The mix of plants run in sections alongside each other with a repeated pattern. **This layout does not include the feature plant.

Option 2
This garden bed layout is closely connected to the original look of the side pools. The mix of plants is set out in a manner that compliments the land axis and has the Xanthorrhoea glauca planted in a similar position to where the “Wedding cake” fountain heads were located.

Option 3
This garden bed layout brings a playfulness of different heights, with the mix of plants circling around each other, leaning into the key feature of the Xanthorrhoea glauca rising through the middle.

How to share your feedback

After taking time to reflect on the imagery and descriptions provided, you are invited to select the garden beds in your order for preference.

There is also an additional comment box where you can provide commentary on your selection.

Share your feedback here