Top Secret Canberra

I was invited to join the delegates of the Canberra Convention Bureau’s Top Secret famil for a bespoke breakfast at the picturesque National Arboretum Canberra. Ginger Catering spoiled us with astonishing food, beverage and service. The arboretum has spectacular positioning, perched on top of a hill with views that go on forever across the nations capital.

Top Secret is an annual event when the local talent showcase what Canberra can do to a hand picked delegation from leading associations and corporate businesses who hold conferences and events that get brought in from around the country.

We started with a tour of the fabulous Bonsai and Penjing collection which is such a surreal space full of whimsy and enchantment. This is one of the most interesting and oldest collections in Australia and the world.

The truely remarkable Janet Jeffs plated a magnificent breakfast that was a brilliant snapshot of what is in season in the Canberra region. There was so much understanding and heart in every thing that Janet plated for us. Janet and her talented team have a passion for all things local . The attention to detail at the arboretum is excellent and the entire venue is so versatile.

“My philosophy of food is imbedded with sustainability and ethical values so that your dining experience is authentic. I am a passionate advocate for a food economy that is good, clean + fair. Our cooking is based on fresh seasonal ingredients that are produced sustainably. We recognise our local food heroes.” Janet Jeffs

The National Arboretum Canberra features 94 forests of different types of rare, endangered and symbolic trees from around Australia and the world. Two forests are nearly one hundred years old. There are plans to have a total 104 forests.

Other highlights include the Pod Playground loved by all ages, the Curatoreum gift shop with some marvellous finds, creative and inventive outdoor sculptures, simply wow architecture and spectacular lookouts with so many aspects and views.

“The National Arboretum, home of Ginger Catering has the best views in Canberra! from the beautiful Brindabella’s then sweeping across the lake to Black Mountain. Enjoy natures attractions, right here in our backyard, where the nation’s capital is famous for having a big sky with endless views showcasing colours and textures with a beautiful sunrise, balloon lift or reflected sunset. Unwind and admire nature’s beauty while tasting Canberra’s freshest regional and seasonal food.” The National Arboretum