About Us

Our Story

Canberra Landmarks was founded in 2008 by Rebecca and Michael Thompson, two history enthusiasts with a deep passion for Australia's capital city. After spending years working in various tourism roles across Australia, the couple recognized a gap in the market for specialized, in-depth tours of Canberra's architectural and cultural treasures.

What began as a small operation with just the two founders conducting walking tours around Lake Burley Griffin has grown into Canberra's premier landmark tour company. In our early days, we specialized in Parliament House and War Memorial tours, but quickly expanded our offerings as visitors sought more comprehensive experiences.

A turning point came in 2012 when we partnered with the National Capital Authority to develop exclusive behind-the-scenes access to several key monuments. This collaboration allowed us to offer unique perspectives that other tour operators couldn't match, establishing our reputation for exceptional quality and insider knowledge.

Today, our team of specialized guides shares Canberra's stories with thousands of visitors annually. We remain committed to the founding principles that Rebecca and Michael established: authentic storytelling, meticulous research, and a genuine love for Canberra's unique character as Australia's planned capital city.

Our Mission & Values

Our Mission

We are dedicated to showcasing the architectural brilliance, historical significance, and natural beauty of Canberra through immersive, educational, and entertaining experiences. Our mission is to transform visitors' understanding of Australia's capital from a political center to a vibrant cultural destination worth exploring in depth.

Our Values

  • Authenticity

    We present Canberra's landmarks with historical accuracy and cultural context, avoiding stereotypes and superficial narratives.

  • Accessibility

    We believe Canberra's stories should be accessible to everyone, regardless of background, age, or mobility requirements.

  • Environmental Stewardship

    We operate with minimal environmental impact and promote the conservation of Canberra's natural spaces.

  • Innovation

    We continuously develop new ways to interpret and present Canberra's landmarks through technology and creative storytelling.

Meet Our Expert Team

Our passionate guides bring Canberra's landmarks to life with their knowledge, storytelling abilities, and personal connections to the city.

Rebecca Thompson - Founder & Chief Guide

Rebecca Thompson

Founder & Chief Guide

With a PhD in Australian History from ANU, Rebecca brings academic rigor to our tours. Her specialty is connecting Canberra's design to Walter Burley Griffin's original vision. Rebecca has been featured in National Geographic and ABC documentaries about Australian capitals.

Michael Thompson - Co-Founder & Operations Director

Michael Thompson

Co-Founder & Operations Director

A former park ranger with 15 years of experience in national parks management, Michael oversees our tour operations and sustainability initiatives. His encyclopedic knowledge of Australian flora and fauna enriches our natural landmark tours.

Anika Patel - Cultural Heritage Specialist

Anika Patel

Cultural Heritage Specialist

Anika joined our team in 2015 after working at the National Gallery of Australia. With a background in art history and cultural studies, she specializes in Indigenous perspectives on Canberra's landmarks and the artistic elements of the city's design.

James Wilson - Technology & Innovation Lead

James Wilson

Technology & Innovation Lead

James leads our digital initiatives, including our virtual tours and augmented reality experiences. With a background in both tourism and software development, he ensures our tours incorporate cutting-edge technology while remaining accessible to all visitors.

Ready to Explore Canberra's Landmarks?

Join one of our expert-guided tours and discover the stories, secrets, and spectacular views of Australia's capital city. Whether you're a history buff, architecture enthusiast, or nature lover, we have the perfect tour for you.