Public Notice: Balloon Spectacular Flight Protocols and Autumn Maintenance Schedule

Daily Flight Briefing: Canberra Balloon Spectacular

The 2026 Canberra Balloon Spectacular is currently underway at Patrick White Lawns. For Sunday, 15 March, residents and visitors are advised that all hot air balloon launches are strictly weather-dependent. Daily flight announcements are issued at 6:00 am following a pre-dawn assessment by flight directors. Please monitor official ACT Government channels or the Canberra Balloon Spectacular website for the 'green light' before traveling to the launch site. Spectators should be aware that if conditions are unsuitable for flight, balloons may be tethered at Patrick White Lawns for static display and 'inflation glows,' provided wind speeds remain within safety parameters.

Road Access and Traffic Management

Transport Canberra and City Services (TCCS) wish to remind motorists of several active road closures and changed traffic conditions effective this Sunday:

• Bunda Street: A full closure remains in effect between Genge Street and Scotts Crossing for essential pavement and streetscape upgrades. This closure is scheduled to remain in place through Sunday, 19 April 2026.
• Commonwealth Avenue Bridge: Major renewal works on the bridge continue to impact north and southbound travel. Motorists should expect reduced speed limits and intermittent lane closures throughout the day. Public transport users are advised to check the revised 2026 bus network timetable, which accounts for these ongoing infrastructure disruptions.
• Majura Road: Preliminary works for the intersection upgrade at Fairbairn Avenue may cause minor delays. Full traffic diversions at this location are scheduled to commence on Monday, 16 March.

Health Advisory: Immunisation and Seasonal Risks

Canberra Health Services has issued a standing advisory regarding the importance of measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccinations following recent travel-related cases in the territory. Residents who are unsure of their vaccination status are encouraged to contact their GP or a local pharmacist. Additionally, as autumn progresses, the community is reminded to take precautions against mosquito-borne risks, specifically Japanese Encephalitis Virus (JEV), by wearing light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing and using effective repellents when outdoors during dawn and dusk.

Parks and Maintenance Updates

The ACT Government advises that the annual winter transition for turf sportsgrounds will begin shortly. Most government-managed turf fields will be closed for a two-week period starting Wednesday, 18 March 2026, to allow for overseeding and goal post installation. Maintenance crews are also working in the Belconnen and Central Canberra districts this Sunday to address mowing backlogs caused by recent wet weather. Please give workers a wide berth when equipment is in operation.