For the first time ever, the Mint is going to open its inner security doors and allow the general public into the coin production areas.

Entry to these restricted areas of the Mint will be by donation, with all money received going to the Canberra Bushfire Appeal. In order to minimise delays, members of the public are asked to leave their bags at home or in their cars.

The doors into the Coining Hall will be opened at 10 AM on Saturday 29 March and will shut again at 3 PM.

Mint staff have volunteered to give their time for this event in order to help raise funds.

The Salvation Army will be providing refreshments and a sausage sizzle during the day. In addition, the Woden Valley Youth Choir will perform from 2.20 pm.

Robert de Castella and Lucille Bailie have both accepted an invitation to strike complete sets of the 2003 proof coins. Robert will strike his at 11.00AM and Lucille will strike hers at 1.00 PM.

The theme of the 2003 dated coins highlights the role of volunteers in our society.

The coins that Robert and Lucille have struck will each be placed in a special presentation set which will be auctioned at a later date. Additional sets will be struck at other times by invited Canberrans and people associated with Canberra. Again, all money raised will go to the Canberra Bushfire Appeal.