As part of the 2026 Enlighten Festival, the ACT Government is partnering with UNSW Canberra to present Ignite, an exhibit which will showcase the latest advances in bushfire research and allow visitors to step into iFire, an immersive bushfire simulation.
iFire Ignite is a free 20-minute session that places participants inside a realistic, research‑driven bushfire environment, capturing the sights, sounds, and sensations of a fire as it ignites, spreads, and intensifies. The experience is designed to deepen community understanding of bushfire behaviour and the risks they pose.
Following the simulation, attendees can speak with emergency responders, reflect on what they've experienced, and learn practical steps to prepare for a bushfire.
Although Ignite is free to attend, places are limited. Tickets can be found via the Enlighten Festival website.
Minister for Police, Fire and Emergency Services, Dr Marisa Paterson, said she is pleased the community will have the opportunity to better understand how dangerous a bushfire can be.
"Fortunately, our community doesn't face bushfires often, but that lack of exposure can lead to complacency. I hope this simulation gives people a real sense of the danger's bushfires pose and motivates them to take practical steps to prepare.
"I'd like to thank UNSW for bringing this experience to Canberra and playing their part in strengthening community resilience to emergencies."
Quotes attributable to ESA Interim Assistant Commissioner of Emergency Management & Collaboration, Kaylee Rutland:
"Our emergency personnel will be at Ignite each day, sharing their experiences and encouraging the community to complete a survival plan so they can prepare now, survive tomorrow.
"The simulation will also give our staff and volunteers a valuable opportunity to further develop their skills and strengthen their readiness for when disaster strikes. It reinforces the capability of our emergency services and ensures we're ready to respond when the community needs us most."
Quotes attributable to Prof. Jason Sharples, Director of UNSW Bushfire at UNSW Canberra:
"UNSW Canberra is at the forefront of bushfire research globally, so to be able to give the public the opportunity to learn more about the latest research developments and to experience first-hand the immersive iFire experience is something we are really excited to be offering during Enlighten."
