The fortunes of the likely second qualifier from Pool D will be settled in Australia's capital city of Canberra where the Canberra Stadium is the venue for Italy against Tonga on 15 October, Wales and Tonga on 19 October, Italy and Canada on 21 October and Italy and Wales on October 25. New Zealand are favourites for top spot in Pool D.
In the lead up to the Rugby World Cup visitors could take in Floriade, over a million flower bulbs and annuals patterned into a cosmic display of the nine planets of the solar system, the sun and moon and the major constellations of the Milky Way, Southern Cross and Northern Lights from 12 October.
Australia's biggest regularly conducted multi sport festival, the 9th Australian Masters Games, will also bring thousands of athletes to Canberra to compete between 31 October - 9 November.
Beer lovers can recount the best moments of the Italy and Wales match and examine the fortunes of the two qualifying teams during Oktoberfest (24 - 26 October). Oktoberfest features traditional German music, dance, food and beer in Exhibition Park.
Spring in Canberra signals the beginning of exhibition season at the National Gallery of Australia, The National Library, National Museum and other major attractions.
For more information phone 02 6205 0044 or go to www.visitcanberra.com.au