The 2008 AARES Conference will be held at the Rydges Lakeside Canberra, ACT, Australia.

Canberra, ACT
The Canberra region had a rich Indigenous and farming heritage long before Australia’s early politicians thought of choosing the area for the new federal capital in the early 1900s. From this time onwards, as its oldest buildings were acquired by the new federal government, the area’s rural heritage became inextricably intertwined with its history as a purpose-built capital.
Located on the ancient lands of the Indigenous Ngunnawal people, Canberra’s name is thought to mean ‘meeting place’, derived from the Aboriginal name Kamberra. European settlers first came in the 1830s, and the area was chosen for the federal capital in 1908.
Canberra’s special contrast of nature and urban living was planned in 1912 by Canberra’s master designer, Walter Burley Griffin, a Chicago architect who won an international design competition. The Provisional Parliament House was opened in 1927 in what was then a treeless paddock. 
www.visitcanberra.com.au
www.capitalcountry.com.au
www.southern-highlands.com.au
www.shoalhaven.nsw.gov.au
www.naturecoast-tourism.com.au
Capital Country, Southern Highlands and the South Coast
Midway between Canberra and Sydney, the Capital Country and Southern Highlands area offers worldclass arts and crafts, historic villages and stunning nature and gourmet delights. Blending rural charm and urban sophistication, the area is a favorite with Sydneysiders seeking a highland getaway.
The South Coast with its spectacular views offers dolphin watching, surfing, golfing and kayaking. Indulge your tastebuds with the freshest seafood and local produce.
Things to see and do
Canberra is the home of many national institutions, so while in Canberra check out:
- Parliament House
- Old Parliament House
- National Museum of Australia
- Australian War Memorial
- National Library
- National Gallery
- National Film and Sound Archive
- High Court of Australia
- Royal Australian Mint
- Questacon – The National Science and Technology Centre
- Australian National Botanic Garden
- The Australian Institute of Sport
Also in the region are places such as:
- The Canberra Deep Space Communications Complex Visitors Centre at Tidbinbilla
- Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve
- Cockington Green Gardens
- CSIRO Discovery Centre
- National Capital Exhibition
- Many local wineries
Rydges Lakeside Canberra
London Circuit
Canberra ACT 2600
+61 2 6247 6244
+61 2 6257 3071
Rydges Lakeside Canberra, a hotel of tradition and warmth, boasts a city centre location on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin. The hotels CBD location, spectacular views and exemplary service ensure that guests are treated to a memorable stay in the Nation’s Capital.
Major attractions including Parliament House, Australian War Memorial, National Gallery of Australia, National Museum of Australia. The National Convention Centre, Australian National University and CSIRO are also located nearby.
How to get to Rydges Lakeside Canberra
From the Airport - 10 Kilometers West Travelling towards Canberra City along Morshead Road which becomes Parkes Way, turn right onto Coranderrk Street at main roundabout, then left onto Constitution Avenue. At the second set of lights turn left onto London Circuit. Rydges Canberra is located on the left hand side. Taxi is approximately $10.00 and a 10 minute drive.
From the CBD - 500 meters South Travelling South along Northbourne Avenue turn right onto London Circuit where Rydges Canberra is located on your right.