Syd book 2015 by Terry Wilson

The no. 1 family guide to Sydney & Surrounds, The Blue Mountains & Wollongong

2015 Out & About in Sydney CBD

vouc her insid s e!

Darling Harbour Manly & Northern Beaches Penrith & Out West

Blue Mountains Wollongong & Down South

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Watch Wot’s on

“Get off the couch and get out there”

ARE YOU READY FOR THIS SUMMER’S...

WOT’S ON • GAMES • VOUCHERS • MAPS • TRANSPORT

Sydney 2015

Contents

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Help Me, Help Me - I’m a parent?!?!?!?

You’ve run out of ideas, the weekend is coming up and you’ve got that birthday to plan. OMG! The holidays are next week and they’ll be home for a fortnight. Aaargh! Don’t worry you’ve come to the right place! At LetsGoKids we’ve done the hard yards, kicked the tyres, found the best spots to eat and play, where to shop, what to see and even where to stay! We’ll let you know what’s on and where, how much it is and try to help the budget with some special deals and vouchers! There are also puzzles, games, competitions and even birthday party ideas to keep the kids entertained.

Travelling somewhere else???

We’ve got that covered too! Check www.letsgokids.com.au to find out all the things for families in WA, VIC, NT, TAS, NZ & (QLD out Apr 15). Order these books online or check the distribution list to see where to get one when you land! Check us online for updated events, deals and specials. Don’t forget to follow our tips and ideas on: Twitter (@LetsGoKidsSYD) and Facebook!

Sydney CBD

Eat

Shop

Play/Party

Out & About in Darling Harbour

Manly & Northern Beaches

Penrith & Out West

Blue Mountains

Wollongong & Down South

Make sure you sign up for our FREE monthly E-newsletter at www.letsgokids.com.au – It has great tips and events, stories, reviews, competitions, giveaways and games.

The LetsGoKids smartphone app is here!!! Take us with you everywhere you go! Loaded with all the latest events and deals, there’s even vouchers for discounts and GPS mapping to get you there- It’s free to download at www.letsgokids.com.au/app

WOW

Watch

Wot’s on

For now all that’s left to say is… Have Fun!

Advertiser’s Index Sydney

Penrith

FX ZONE 3 Sandstorm Events 5 Transport Sydney Trains 6-7 City of Sydney 8-9 Best Of 11 Oz Jet Boating 11 Transport Sydney Ferries 12 The Sydney Tower Eye 13 Sydney Cricket Ground 14-15

Darling Harbour Powerhouse Museum Fantasea Cruises Wildlife Sydney Zoo

I Fly Nepean Belle Penrith Observatory Trees Adventure

Play/Party 28 28 29 29

Blue Mountains The Blue Mountains Cultural Centre Hop On Tours

30 30

Wollongong 16 16 17

Manly Manly Sealife Sanctuary 20-22 Hello Manly 21 Manly Art Gallery & Museum 22 Pittwater Sports Centre 23,25 Manly Waterworks 24 Pittwater Golf Centre 24 Pittwater Mini Golf 26 Cheeky Monkeys Playhouse 27

Illawarra Fly 38-40 Greater Union Theatre Shellharbour 40 WIN Sports & Entertainment Centres 41 Novotel Wollongong Northbeach 42 Zoom Wollongong 43 Illawarra Golf Complex 43 Shellharbour Tenpin 43 Science Culture & Planetarium 44 Nan Tien Temple 44 Train Works Thirlmere 45

Eat Hard Rock Cafe

LetsGoKids Sydney 2014/15

Sydney Olympic Parks & Arenas 48 BOING 48 Netball NSW 50 Monkey Baa Children’s Theatre 51-52 Pittwater Minigolf 52

Watch Sydney Kings 53 Sydney 6ers front cover, 54 Sydney Thunder front cover, 55 Sydney FC 57 NSW Swifts 58 NSW Waratahs 59 Sydney Roosters 61

Vouchers Wildlife Sydney Zoo Madame Tussauds Sydney Sealife Aquarium The Sydney Tower Eye Fantasea Cruises

33-34 33-34 33-34 35-36 35-36

General Sydney Sealife Aquarium Inside Front Visit Rotorua Inside Back Cover Madame Tussauds Back Cover

Really, really important stuff Public and School Holidays (14/15) 25 Dec 26 Dec 1 Jan 26 Jan 3 Apr 6 Apr

Christmas Day Boxing Day New Year’s Day Australia Day Good Friday Easter Monday

25 Apr 8 June 3 Aug 5 Oct 25 Dec 26 Dec

Time

The whole state of NSW is on the same time zone – Eastern Standard Time (EST). This is the same time zone as VIC, TAS, ACT and QLD! SA and NT are half an hour behind NSW. WA is two hours behind. Daylight Savings begins on October 5 2014 in NSW, and will conclude on April 5 2015.

Anzac Day Queens Birthday Bank Holiday Labour Day Christmas Day Boxing Day

Weather

School Holidays in 2014/2015 Summer Easter Autumn Spring

The Sydney weather is temperate, having warm summers and mild winters, with rainfall spread throughout the year. In Summer the average range is 18.7-25.9°C. In Winter, temperatures are mild and rarely drop below 5°C with a range of 8-16.3°C.

20 Dec - 26 Jan 15 1 Apr - 20 Apr 15 27 Jun - 12 Jul 19 Sept - 5 Oct

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Australia’s #1 family guide... for all things family...

Ok this is toooo boring for kids… But some grown-ups might need to read this info ‘cos they’re interested in this or whatever… LetsGoKids Pty Ltd - ABN: 85 122 538 103 95 Chapel Lane, Doreen, VIC 3754 Advertising & Listings (Print, Web & App) Terry Wilson Email: office@letsgokids.com.au | Ph: 0407 012 940 Graphic Design The LetsGoKids in house studio led by Shaun Jarvie can design and produce graphic art for your advertising needs, whether it be print, web or app. For no obligation and highly competitive quote, email Shaun at letsgokidsgraphics@gmail.com Special Thanks / Contributors Destination NSW Online Image Library, Natalja McKenzie, Shaun Jarvie, Lakshmi Thyagarajan, Cassie Wilson, Michelle Eccles.

Photos - Uncredited photographs used are owned by LetsGoKids or Destination NSW (and used with permission) unless otherwise stated. All photos & logos for listings supplied by individual business owners. Unauthorised use of images or text will be subject to legal action. Disclaimer - Every effort has been made to ensure that all information is correct at time of press. The Publisher accepts no responsibility or liability for errors or omissions in the LetsGoKids publication. Vouchers and discount expiry dates are up to the discretion of individual business owners unless otherwise stated. Indemnity Listing photographs/logos/text and advert artwork, have been supplied to LetsGoKids by business owners or their Advertising Agencies, Graphic Designers or representatives. Download advert & listing specs from our website www.letsgokids.com.au © Copyright 2014

LetsGoKids Sydney 2014/15

fxzone.com

.au

Multi-sport facility including Golf, Cricket, Baseball, Dodge Ball, Wall-to-Wall Trampolines and more! FX Zone caters for all ages, Birthday Parties & Corporate Events. Featuring Dodgeball Courts, Foam Pits and an Open Jump Court. Team building activities and private lessons available also.

Present This Voucher for One

FREE Complimentary 1 HR Jump AT

(02) 9648 0781 Mon - Fri: 10:00 am - 8:00 pm Sat - Sun: 9:00 am - 9:00 pm Uhrig Rd Sydney Olympic Park NSW 2127

**excl grip socks eXPIRES 31/10/15

Emergency â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Phone 000

Get out of town! Take a ride to the countryside Buses and trains run to all corners of the State of NSW & also to other states of Australia. They depart from Central Station, corner of Eddy Ave & Pitt St, where all fares & timetables are available: www.nswtrainlink.info

13 22 32

Police, Fire & Ambulance ................................................. 000 Kids Help Line ................................................. 1800 55 1800 NSW Family Services ...................................02 9692 9999 Interpreter Service .........................................1300 651 500 Airports: Sydney .............................................................. (02) 9667 9111

Hospitals Balmain Hospital 29 Booth St, Balmain ....................................... Canterbury Hospital 575 Canterbury Rd, Campsie ........................ Concord Repatriation General Hospital Hospital Rd, Concord ...................................... Royal Prince Alfred Hospital Missenden Rd, Camperdown ......................... Bankstown Hospital Eldridge Rd, Bankstown .................................. Bowral Hospital Mona Rd, Bowral .............................................. Camden Hospital Menangle Rd, Camden ....................................

(02) 9395 2111 (02) 9787 0000 (02) 9767 5000 (02) 9515 6133 (02) 9722 8000 (02) 4861 0200 (02) 4634 3000

Campbelltown Hospital Therry Rd, Campbelltown .............................. Fairfield Hospital Poldin St, Prairiewood ..................................... Liverpool Hospital Elizabeth St, Liverpool ..................................... Auburn Hospital Hargrave Rd, uburn........................................... Blacktown Mount Druitt Hospital Railway St, Mt Druitt ....................................... Westmead Hospital Darcy Rd, Westmead ....................................... Napean Hospital Derby St, Kingswood .......................................

(02) 4634 3000 (02) 9616 8111 (02) 9828 3000 (02) 8759 3000 (02) 9881 1555 (02) 9845 5555 (02) 4734 2000

Tourist Information Centres Bankstown 66 Rickard Road Ph: (02) 9707 9228 Blacktown Civic Plaza Ph: 1300 302 858 Bundeena 69 Loftus Street Ph: (02) 9523 2115 Camden John Oxley Cottage Ph (02) 4658 1370 Campbelltown 15 Old Menangle Road Ph: 1800 655 991 Circular Quay Pitt and Alfred Street

Cronulla 11/38-60 Croydon Street Ph: (02) 9527 2100 Dural 656a Old Northern Road Ph: (02) 9651 4411 Hawkesbury 8 Baker Street Ph (02) 4560 4655 Haymarket Dixon Street Ph: (02) 9265 9333 Manly Manly Wharf Forecourt Ph: (02) 9976 1430 Kings Cross Darlinghurst Road

Parramatta 346a Church Street Ph (02) 8839 3311 Sydney Airport Ph: 1300 402 060 Darling Harbour 33 Wheat Road Ph 1800 067 676 The Rocks Harrington St Ph: 1800 067 676 Town Hall 483 George Street Wollondilly Argyle Street Ph: (02) 4677 8313

LetsGoKids Sydney 2014/15

Track safety

Platform safety

✓ ✓ ✓

Always stay off train tracks Remember trains can’t stop suddenly or swerve Always use a bridge, overpass or crossing

Stay behind the yellow line Mind the gap Hold hands and always walk

Level crossings

How do I get help?

✓ ✓ ✓

STOP, LOOK, LISTEN, THINK Wait for the lights and bells to finish Always use the footpath

Move away from unsafe situations Ask a staff member in uniform Press the Emergency Help Point button

Legend:

Water

Pedestrian Area

Parks

Construction

Cycleways

Toilet

Train Station

Ferries

Church

Information Kiosk

Parking

Police

Museum

The Rocks First floor, cnr Argyle and Playfair streets

Darling Harbour Palm Grove Near Imax Theatre

Open daily 9.30am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 5.30pm Closed Christmas Day, Good Friday

Book your tours and accommodation with our in store travel agent, Best of New South Wales. 1800 067 676 shfa.nsw.gov.au/svc

Sydney CBD -

Sydney Checklist

Don’t know what to do with the family on the weekend or holidays? You’ve come to the right place!

Don’t leave Sydney without having... • •

Sydney is an awesome place any time of the year, with soooo many options to keep the family entertained in this great city.

•

From the city to the beach and the harbour, to the nearby hills or just at the local park, there is plenty of open space to run, play, swim, boat or picnic!

•

Photo courtesy of Ethan Rohloff; Destination NSW

For a day, a weekend, a week – in and around Sydney there are hundreds of things to do.

• • • • • •

So much of Sydney is set up for the outdoor lifestyle and we’ve gone and found the activities, the events, the deals and specials, and those parks and attractions you didn’t know about. So get the troops together, take advantage of our vouchers and offers in the book and online, sign up for our e newsletter, download the app to stay “in the know” and just get out there and DO IT! Have Fun – The LetsGoKids Team

• • • •

✂

Sydney CBD

Voucher

Expires 18/09/15

✂ LetsGoKids Sydney 2014/15

Gone on a ferry across the Harbour Walked across the Harbour Bridge for one of the world’s great views Ascended to the top of the Sydney Tower (voucher P.13) for a birds eye view over the CBD & suburbs Visited the outstanding Sydney Aquarium at Darling Harbour (voucher P.33) Examined who is who at Madame Tussards (voucher P.33) Can you tell who is who? Taken a ride around the underground train network on the neat double decker trains Checked out the picturesque and world renowned Taronga Zoo Jumped on the train and travelled up to the nearby Blue Mountains (P.30) Taken a tour of the hallowed SCG or even seen a game live (voucher P.14) Visited the Opera House and marvelled at the design and construction Stepped back in time to the days when travel was by water at the National Maritime Museum Spent an evening or a day in the world class Darling Harbour precinct Taking the kids to see a show at Monkey Baa children’s theatre at Darling Harbour. They’ll love it. Walked the crooked cobblestoned back alleys and laneways of The Rocks, and imagined days gone by

Photo courtesy of Ethan Rohloff; Destination NSW

- Sydney CBD The CBD and Harbour were the original area settled when Arthur Phillip established an English penal colony in the “Rocks” in 1788. The rough countryside resulted in a confusing collection of streets and laneways, rather than a neat grid of roads and avenues. Today the area is a tourist mecca with visitors rubbing shoulders with Syndeysiders commuting to work via the extensive ferry system. Half of Australia’s finance and banking sector is located in the area around Circular Quay.

Did You Know

In 1897 the junction of Victoria Street, Darlinghurst Road and William Street was originally called Queens Cross, after reigning monarch Queen Victoria. It was changed 8 years later to Kings Cross.

Worth a Look

Sydney Tower Eye offers you the ultimate view of the beauty of one of the world’s most picturesque cities and beyond. You can see the iconic buildings and popular tourist attractions, and can even do the SKYWALK – an exciting external open air walk around the turret of the Sydney Tower 268m above street level. In the former working class suburbs such as Woolloomooloo, Redfern, Paddington, Darlinghurst and Pyrmont, you can see the remnants of the early years of the infant Sydney. Narrow laneways with small single frontage houses are a reminder of life in another time. Walk the streets and the backblocks of Surry Hills or Glebe and you can almost feel what it would’ve been like……….. Surry Hills was once a working-class suburb and centre for the rag trade. Its European settlement dates back to the 1790’s and the area’s slums became the gritty setting for many novels and short stories. Now it is a busy creative quarter with a mix of design and vintage stores, pubs, cafes and local bakeries. At weekends, nearby Centennial Park is buzzing with joggers, dog-walkers and cyclists eager for fresh air, exercise and breakfast at the park’s café.

Arrrr, Ferry me outta here matey

Sydney CBD

Ferry services operate to and from Balmain, Double Bay, Manly, Parramatta, Toronga Zoo, Darling Harbour and Cockatoo Island. For more information visit www.transport.nsw.gov.au/content/sydney-ferries

LetsGoKids Sydney 2014/15

- Sydney CBD 5.

Let Letsgokids show you how to spend a day or even a week in and around Sydney “on the cheap” where you can see and do lots…… And spend nothing! (or just a little). 6.

So what are you waiting for? 1.

First stop is to check out P.62 of this book. See what’s happening and where. Check out festivals, markets and all of the events.

Take the kids to Tumbalong Park in Darling Harbour or Pirrama Park in Pyrmont. Excellent new playgrounds with water play features.

Catch the Manly ferry (costs a little) for a cheap cruise on one of the world’s great harbours. They depart from Circular Quay.

Get out and about with your family on any Sydney public transport on Sundays every weekend for only $2.50 per person. Just pack a lunch and go exploring. You never know what you might find.

Walk across the Harbour Bridge – The view is amazing. If a ship happens to be passing at the same time, it looks spectacular. Walk back again or catch the train from Milson’s Point. Take a leisurely weekend stroll around “The Rocks” or Circular Quay and be entertained by the variety of street performers (donations gratefully accepted). Walk around Bennelong Point to the Opera House. Climb the steps and look back at the city. Maybe take the tour? Photo courtesy of Ethan Rohloff; Destination NSW

Who said: “You don’t get something for nothing?”

SCGTOUR

EXPERIENCE

Sydney CBD

BEHIND THE SCENES AT THE SCG AND ALLIANZ STADIUM

• Visit the SCG and Allianz Stadium field of play • Walk through the famous SCG Members Pavilion • Sit in the dressing rooms where many sporting legends prepared for their finest moments • Visit the SCG Museum • Walk down the Allianz Stadium players tunnel

School h o group to liday u availablers ! Ask your care provvacation more info ider for rmation.

SCGTOUR EXPERIENCE

TOURS OPER ATE MONDAY TO SATURDAY BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL 1300 724 737 tours@scgt.nsw.gov.au www.sydneycricketground.com.au Tour itinerary subject to change without notice (causes include but are not limited to site activities and inclement weather).

C12637_SCGTOUR_LGK_128x85_F.indd 1

10/10/2014 pm LetsGoKids Sydney12:49 2014/15

Photo courtesy of Andrew Gregory; Destination NSW

Sydney CBD 13. Spend a morning or afternoon at the Art Gallery of NSW. They have regular children’s themed exhibitions. FREE! 14. Check out the early history of Sydney at The Rocks Discovery Museum. Lots of indigenous displays too – FREE 15. Pay a visit to the Botanic Gardens and pop into Government House. Free 45 min tours of the State Rooms run every 1/2hr from 10.30 – 3pm on Fri, Sat & Sun. 8.

Catch a ferry to the Jetty at Luna Park and check out the sideshows and rides. Entry is Free, rides cost a little.

Head down to Darling Harbour on a Saturday night and witness the spectacular fireworks display

16. Climb the 200 stairs to the Pylon Lookout at 87m above sea level. The views are spectacular (costs a little)

18. Check out the kids activities at the State Library of NSW. Always changing – always interesting. Photo courtesy of Daniel Boud; Destination NSW

10. On a warm day, cool off with a dip at the world famous Bondi Beach. Go people watching, as visitors from all over the world congregate on the sand. Stroll over to the equally famous headquarters of the Bondi Icebergs and check out their ocean pool.

17. Visit the SCG and take a tour of the grand old stadium and learn its history (costs a little) - (See Voucher Below)

11. Take your binoculars and camera to BirdLife Discovery Centre at Sydney Olympic Park. Native and migratory birds abound. Free Entry 12. Walk the coastal path from Coogee to Bondi. Spectacular beachside scenery. In spring, the Sculptures by the Sea exhibition is scattered along the path.

✂

SCGTOUR EXPERIENCE BEHIND THE SCENES AT THE SCG AND ALLIANZ STADIUM

Voucher

Two children go FREE with every paying adult Call 1300 724 737 today!

SCGTOUR EXPERIENCE

✂

tours@scgt.nsw.gov.au www.sydneycricketground.com.au Valid until December 2015

✂ C12637_SCGTOUR_LGK_Voucher_123x60_F.indd LetsGoKids Sydney 2014/15

10/10/2014 12:42 pm

Sydney CBD

- Darling Harbour A lively harbourside precinct, Darling Harbour is just a 10 minute walk from Sydney city centre. One of Sydney’s largest dining, shopping and entertainment precincts, it has a full calendar of outdoor events as well as one of the city’s most restful spots, the Chinese Gardens of Friendship.

Darling Harbour was reopened by Queen Elizabeth 11 as a tourist area in 1988 after it was transformed from disused railway yards and port facilities into the dazzling array of restaurants, bars, shopping precincts and tourist attractions that it houses today.

Fun Fact

More than 250 measurements and photos and 800 hours of painstaking moulding, measuring painting and sculpting goes into making each Madame Tussauds wax figure! A mecca for city workers and visitors alike, it has something for all ages. It is home to the National Maritime Museum, The Sydney Aquarium (Voucher p.33), Madame Toussards (Voucher p.33), Wild Life Sydney Zoo (Voucher p.33), a range of cruise companies, IMAX Theatre and children’s Theatre Company Monkey Baa (Voucher p.51) as well as the great Tumbalong Park and Playground. The Powerhouse Museum is nearby and it has constantly changing (family themed) exhibitions.

POWERHOUSE MUSEUM

CIRCUS FACTORY 20 DECEMBER 2014 – 3 MAY 2015 BOOKINGS MAAS.MUSEUM *Up to three kids free with the purchase of an adult ticket.

Darling Harbour

Did You Know

Pyrmont Bridge opened in 1902, replacing a smaller bridge built in 1857, to maintain the link between the CBD, Pyrmont and Glebe. The swingspan bridge is powered by electricity, originally supplied from the nearby Ultimo Powerhouse (now the Powerhouse Museum), and remains the oldest electrically powered swingspan bridge still operating in the world.

See Voucher P.35

LetsGoKids Sydney 2014/15

A message from Sydney Lord Mayor Clover Moore: “This festive season, the City of Sydney celebrates by turning our city into a magical summer Christmas playground with spectacular decorations, new projections and an interactive Christmas tree in Martin Place.

The night will be packed with free entertainment for the whole family, including a surprise headline act, characters from Sesame Street, Lah-Lah’s Big Live Band, Eddie Perfect and carols from the Australian Girls’ Choir. Santa and the Lord Mayor will arrive by sleigh to light the tree and the night will finish with a magical fireworks display to mark the start of the festive season.

We encourage you to revel in our joyful city festivities, such as the new Street Light Disco in Martin Place, the interactive Christmas Light Forest in Pitt Street Mall, and our much-loved concerts in Martin Place, Hyde Park and villages. To all the kids and those that are kids at heart, I wish you a very Happy Christmas and a peaceful New Year.”

Meanwhile at Hyde Park, the Christmas on the Green concert from 6-8.30pm will feature MC James Tobin and performances by Hi-5, Tom & Jerry, Butterscotch’s Playground, Emma Pask and St Andrew’s Cathedral Choir, with a fireworks display finale.

A Sydney Christmas is like no other in the world, with its sun-drenched summer days and balmy nights, uniquely Aussie festivities, and tradition with a twist. The centrepiece of the Sydney festive season is the most loved Christmas icon - the Christmas Tree. Sydney’s majestic version of this timeless international symbol of giving will stand tall in Martin Place, providing a grand focus to the season’s celebrations. The season officially kicks off on 27 November with the annual Children’s Christmas Concert and Tree Lighting in Martin Place from 6-8.30pm Featuring Channel 7 celebrity, The City’s inaugural Christmas Ambassador Melissa Doyle, as MC.

This year the public are invited to interact with the festive Christmas decorations in different fun ways. Jump on the interactive dance pad at the Martin Place Christmas Tree or text a message to appear on the tree’s branches for everyone to see. Be captivated by the magical overhead Christmas Light Forest installation that will float above the length of Pitt Street Mall. Suspended ‘trees’ made from thousands of LED lights will integrate with a free smartphone app, giving users the chance to interact and control the colour of the canopy. LetsGoKids Sydney 2014/15

Handy Hint

CHRISTMAS WALK

Westfield Sydney is once again hosting Super Saturday on 6 December. It’s a day filled with exclusive retailer offers, entertainment and events including LEGO® workshop, a gift wrap lounge, sweet treats and a visit from Santa himself. It’s the perfect opportunity to tick off your Christmas list and save in style.

Take the family on a special Christmas journey through the city and explore a thousand sparkling lights and projections on iconic buildings from Pitt Street Mall to Sydney Town Hall.

Bring the family for a free photo with 2Day FM’s Santa Claus and experience what it’s like to be a Seven News reporter by creating your very own festive news report live from Martin Place.

Walk under the tree canopy to King Street where magical projections will light up the façade of several buildings in this busy intersection.

Make sure you visit the city at night as the streets will be illuminated with bright lights and decorations, including dramatic digital projections on the facade of Sydney Town Hall and Pitt Street Mall’s King Street entrance. The new Street Light Disco banners in Martin Place will captivate passersby with their mirror-ball effect, bringing sparkle to the street day and night.

Christmas shopping in the city promises to be full of festive cheer. Street choirs singing carols provide the perfect accompaniment for evening shoppers, and everything on the Christmas shopping list can be found in Sydney’s unique shops, boutiques, arcades and department stores. There are so many reasons to visit the city this summer, so come and enjoy the sunshine and balmy evenings for a bright, fun-filled and festive season.

Start at the Market Street entrance to Pitt Street Mall and marvel at the LEGO® Christmas tree.

Continue the walk down to Martin Place to the interactive Christmas tree and don’t forget to share the spirit by sending your Christmas messages up its branches. Enjoy an ice cream while choirs serenade you every night in December from 6pm to 8pm. Pause under the stunning arches of the Queen Victoria Building and marvel at its incredible Christmas tree spanning three floors. Exist in front of Sydney Town Hall and watch in awe as this historic building comes alive with spectacular light projections.

For the ultimate Christmas in the city, including a full calendar of events, unique shopping experiences and competitions, visit sydneychristmas.com.au;#sydxmas.

Did You Know

A Christmas tree built entirely from LEGO bricks and standing about 10m tall, complete with its very own Santa and sleigh, will come to life outside Westfield Sydney in Pitt Street Mall. Setting the record for the largest LEGO Christmas Tree in the Southern Hemisphere, this breath-taking build will also feature a nightly light show at sundown. Visit the tree for the first official LEGO Christmas Tree lighting celebrations on Thursday 27 November and throughout the month of December. So come celebrate and be inspired to build your LEGO Christmas. For more details visit www.westfield.com.au/sydney

LetsGoKids Sydney 2014/15

✂

Manly & Northern Beaches Manly is one of Australia’s most popular tourist destinations. Considered the gateway to Sydney’s beautiful Northern Beaches, it offers a wide variety of unique attractions and activities for people of all ages.

Expert advice on things to do for families. Free bookings for tours, attractions & accommodation. Bike and walking guides, maps & souvenirs

Manly is just fifteen minutes from Sydney CBD by ferry, making it the perfect place to visit for a day, or to use as your place to stay whilst in Sydney! Nowhere in the world is quite like Manly.

02 9976 1430 hellomanly.com.au The Forecourt, Manly Wharf 9am-5pm - 7 days (except Christmas Day)

Fun Fact

Every weekend, people from all over Sydney make the pilgrimage to Manly for a great day out. The Manly ferries from Circular Quay bring thousands of tourists to the Manly Wharf all day long with Ferries leaving every half hour from the city and back again.

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Ever wonder where Manly got its name from? Governor Arthur Phillip, who discovered Manly in 1778, saw the local Indigenous people as he entered the harbour and described them as strong and manly.

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Manly & Northern Beaches

Photo courtesy of James Pipino; Destination NSW

On its own small peninsula, it’s bound by Sydney Harbour, the Sydney Harbour National Park, and the Pacific Ocean. All of this natural beauty is complimented by 200 retail stores, 130 cafes restaurants, bars and eateries, 30 outdoor activities, plus 40 beaches and nature walks!

- Manly & Northern Beaches The roads leading to the Northern Beaches are noticeably clogged most weekend mornings with those eager to explore everything that Manly has to offer. With good reason. It’s just a fantastic spot. Manly has a laid back, casual, friendly atmosphere that welcomes everyone. There is always plenty to see and do in Manly, no matter what your interests are.

Photo courtesy of Lawrence Furvey; Destination NSW

You can visit a vast array of intriguing sea creatures at nearby Manly Sea Life Sanctuary (voucher p.33). However if you’re a bit of an adrenalin junkie, and want to get up close and personal with the ocean’s bad boys, you can even do an Extreme Shark Dive. Open from 10am - 5.30pm every day except Christmas Day. Last admission is at 4:45pm. Allow 1-2 hours. Grab a Kayak or Paddleboard and head out for a bit of a paddle and explore some of the more secluded and out of the way beaches!

Did You Know

Manly was designed after the city of Brighton in England by Henry Gilbert Smith? The streets mimic the lanes of Brighton, which lead from the city centre to the sea.

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Manly & Northern Beaches

Water activities abound, as well as art & culture, (pop into the Manly Art Gallery and Museum see opposite), sporting activities and of course there are plenty of attractions and activities for the kids as well.

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- Manly & Northern Beaches Shelly Beach is the only west-facing beach on the eastern coast of Australia and is perched at the southern tip of the famous Manly Beach. Shelly Beach is a protected marine reserve since it is part of Cabbage Tree Bay, making it quite the aquatic wonderland full of enchanting marine life, perfect for the snorkeling and diving enthusiast.

Swim and snorkel while you try to identify the 200 + other fish species, invertebrates and algae’s of the area

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Photo courtesy of Hamilton Lund; Destination NSW

www.manlywaterworks.com.au (02) 9949 1088

Waterworks Manly Cnr West Esplanade & Commonwealth Parade, MANLY

FREE Receive 25 Balls

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When buying 50 balls 9913 7991 info@pittwatergolfcentre.com.au www.pittwatergolfcentre.com.au 1500 Pittwater Road Warriewood

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Expires 31/10/15 **Not redeemable for cash Not available with any other offer Please present this voucher to receive this offer

LetsGoKids Sydney 2014/15

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Expires 18/09/15

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Manly & Northern Beaches

Two Hours For The Price of ONE !

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Did You Know

Did you know that in one year, the Manly ferry travels a distance equivalent to travelling 2x around the world?

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Go snorkeling in this beautiful marine area, where you can learn about Learn about the diverse wildlife of the Cabbage Tree Aquatic Reserve search for the endangered species like famous Blue Groper’s in their natural habitat

- Manly & Northern Beaches

Photo courtesy of Graeme Gillmer; Destination NSW

Head north from Manly and you will find a collection of some of the world’s great suburban beaches, Dee Why, Narrabeen, Collaroy, Avalon and Palm Beach. Surfing rules! This part of Sydney had produced many great professional Australian surfers and is a mecca for the amateurs as well.

Avalon Beach provides great swimming and fun body surfing conditions for the older kids in the family and has a 25m salt water rock pool at the south end. Avalon is also home to resident koala population.- Keep your eyes open. Palm Beach sits on the end of peninsula, with lush evergreen bushland and sandwiched between the Pittwater and the Pacific Ocean. It is also where “Home and Away” is filmed! Palm Beach wharf is a great fishing spot for kids, or take a ferry across to Ettalonog, the popular picnic and camping spot.

Looking for a great beachside day out? Manly too crowded, too many tourists in Bondi? Head to Dee Why. It has a quaint little main street with bars restaurants and take aways that feature all cuisines. There is children’s playgrounds, plenty of a shady grass areas for picnicking and a patrolled beach. Further along the coast, as well as having a world class surf break, Narrabeen is surrounded by numerous parks and reserves and has plenty of walking tracks. You can basically do any water activity - including windsurfing, sailing, kayaking, canoeing, rowing, fishing, boating or swimming.

In the northern beaches, the lifestyle is laid back and the locals are friendly. For a day trip or a week, you’ll love it.!

Photo courtesy of James Pipino; Destination NSW

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Buses run from Circular Quay and Central Station to Palm Beach. The route travels past all of Sydney’s Northern Beaches on its journey to Palm Beach.

FREE Buy One get One

(Same or lesser Value as Purchased Ticket) 9913 7991 minigolf@pittwatergolfcentre.com.au www.pittwatergolfcentre.com.au 1500 Pittwater Road Warriewood

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Expires 31/10/15 **Family passes excluded Not redeemable for cash Not available with any other offer Please present this voucher to receive this offer

LetsGoKids Sydney 2014/15

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Manly & Northern Beaches

Handy Hint

Did You Know

In the 1830’s Manly’s quarantine station served as an immigration station for Sydney to protect residents from becoming sick. This building now serves as a hotel and hosts ghost tours throughout the station grounds…spooky!

Vacation Care Excursions & Fun Shows | Bookings Essential

Govt benefits and 50% rebate available to eligible families

Cafe and Play Everyday 9.30am - 3.00pm

Birthday Parties Disco, Slot Cars, Craft, Crazy Hair & Cookie Decorating

Back to School Before School Care & After School Care

Govt. benefits and 50% rebate available to eligible families

Ph: 02 9999 0388 www.cheekymonkeysplayhouse.com.au Unit 1101/4 Daydream Street, Warriewood

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Buy One Get One

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- Penrith & Out West Adventure comes in a variety of forms; whether you’re after action-packed, laid back or outdoors – An adventure awaits you in Penrith. Home to Australia’s only indoor skydiving facility and the southern hemisphere’s best white-water facility; there is also jet packing at the Sydney International Regatta Centre, go-karting and wakeboarding at Cables Wake Park all year round. You can even fly and land a Boeing 737 plane at the Jet Flight Simulator Experience.

Surrounded by mountains, sweeping valleys and lakes, there is no better place to explore the great outdoors. Relax on a cruise along the Nepean River or step things up with a bushwalk to ‘The Rock’ lookout.

Worth a Look!

Panthers is located on 82 hectares of landscaped grounds at the foothills of the Blue Mountains, one of Australia’s World Heritage listed areas. With a wide range of restaurants to suit all tastes, first class live entertainment, gaming, bars, accommodation and outdoor leisure, Panthers World of Entertainment has something for all ages.

• NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY • SAFE AND FUN FOR AGES 3 TO 103

NEPEAN BELLE

Penrith & Out West

PADDLEWHEELER

$10 Child

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Bring your family on board a Nepean Belle Lunch Cruise & children aged 3-12 cruise and eat for only $10! www.nepeanbelle.com.au Tel: (02) 4733 1274

* Up to 3 children aged 3-12 years with a paying adult.

LetsGoKids Sydney 2014/15

Penrith & Out West Handy Hint

The Great River Walk offers stunning scenary along the Hawkesbury-Nepean River. Take your bike, pack a picnic or put on your walking shoes and visit the Great River Walk as it passes through Penrith at the foot of the Blue Mountains

BRINGING PEOPLE CLOSE TO THE UNIVERSE (02) 4736 0135 penrithobservatory@uws.edu.au www.uws.edu.au/observatory

If you prefer to keep your feet firmly on the ground, discover the rich arts and culture scene with a visit to The Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre, the Penrith Regional Gallery or the Museum of Fire. If that sounds like hard work, take it easy at one of the amazing restaurants or cafes. Push your limits, try new things and be amazed at what Penrith has to offer. Visit www.penrithvalley.com.au to plan your trip or call 1300 736 836.

Penrith Observatory has programs designed to enhance and extend exposure to astronomy, science, technology, engineering and mathematics for school students in years K-12. Excursions, birthday parties, astronomy nights, and specialised programs for groups. /UWSObservatory or

The ultimate Tree-Top experience for the whole family!

From 4 to 75+y.o and prices ranging from $25 to $40. 10 obstacle courses - 110 challenges including 19 flying foxes. Easy courses from 2 meters for those not too keen on heights and the higher runs for those thrill seekers up to 25 m high - 2 hours of fun. LetsGoKids Sydney 2014/15

Penrith & Out West

(02) 4776 1226 www.treesadventure.com.au groseriverpark@treesadventure.com.au 200 Springwood Rd, Yarramundi , NSW 2753

- Blue Mountains More than 400 walking tracks, thrilling activities and fairytale eateries abound in the Blue Mountains – right on Sydney’s doorstep. Accessing all the famous sites and sights of Leura and Katoomba including the Echo Point Lookout and Three Sisters is easy on a hop-on/hop-off Explorer Bus (see voucher below).

www.bmculturalcentre.com.au

Experience the thrill of the world’s steepest railway at Scenic World, Katoomba. Be suspended 270m above the valley looking through partiallyglassed floor in the Scenic Skyway; wander the 2.4km easy grade Scenic Walkway through pristine rainforest; and glide between the cliff top and the forest floor in the Scenic Cableway. Australia’s most magnificent caves system, Jenolan Caves, offers a range of special activities for small people especially during school holidays. Of course families can also go on the usual tours of spectacular show caves, adventure tours, night tours and the new Fossils Unearthed tour.

Blue Mountains City Art Gallery World Heritage Exhibition Cafe & Shop

With panoramic views of the World Heritage area, the Blue Mountains Cutural Centre features the Blue Mountains City Art Gallery as well as the immersive World Heritage Exhibition experience. Not to be missed! Open 10am–5pm Mon–Fri, 10am–4pm Weekends, 10am-2pm public holidays (closed Christmas Day) 02 4780 5410. 30 Parke Street Katoomba

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KIDS TRAVEL FREE

Buy one Adult pass, get up to 2 children free, Buy 2 adult passes get up to 5 children free Expires 18/09/15

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Step through the doors at The Gingerbread House at Katoomba and feast on fairytale sweet treats. Sip on a Ginger Mule, Woodcutters Nectar, a Hansel or Gretel or a Magical Witches Brew if you dare. Kids can take their time choosing from the range at the ice cream counter and lolly shop and play outdoors in the enclosed playground with gingerbread-themed cubby house.

Hop on hop off all day everyday (as in circles) Explore all the main attractions of the Upper Blue Mountains including Scenic World, Echo Point, waterfalls, bushwalks, kids play grounds 1300 300 915 explorerbus.com.au

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Blue Mountains

Worth a Look!

Australia’s premier eco-adventure experience, Grose River Trees Adventure Park (see p.29) at Yarramundi, features challenging courses in the tree canopy that will have kids of all ages swinging, leaping, climbing and flying through the bush. Thrill seekers zip through the trees on flying foxes and challenge themselves on cargo nets, rope bridges and wooden obstacles high above the ground. There’s even a section for tiny tots. Go to www.visitbluemountains.com.au for more information.

LetsGoKids Sydney 2014/15

2015 Sydney Word Search HARBOUR PARRAMATTA LUNA PARK FERRY OPERA HOUSE MANLY PENRITH BLUE MOUNTAINS TOWN HALL CIRCULAR QUAY HYDE PARK WOOLLOOMOOLOO MARITIME MUSEUM WOLLONGONG BOTANY BAY SIXERS THUNDER SYDNEY NSWSWIFTS NETBALL WARATAHS ROOSTERS

PER

WHERE IS COO

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PUPPY HIDING

Identify the 6 locations where Cooper is hiding and you can win an awesome prize! Visit our competitions page at www.letsgokids.com.au and enter your answers

Credit: Destination NSW; Dan Gosse, Wolgan Valley

LetsGoKids Sydney 2014/15

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Download free from: www.letsgokids.com.au/app OR search “LetsGoKids” in the app store

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✂ Sydney Seven Wonders

Coastal Adventure

20%*

The Bondi Boat

OFF

Harbour cruise, Sydney Heads and Bondi behind the breakers!

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Present this voucher at a Fantasea sales office to receive 20% off your next adventure cruise!

Fantasea Adventure Cruising

*excludes special events

fantasea.com.au (02) 9556 9200Expires 18/09/15

Whale Watching ✂

Renowned for producing award-winning theatre for children! Monkey Baa stands out for the fact they adapt the very best of Australian children’s literature for the stage, entertaining the young and the young at heart with delightful, engaging, professional productions and theatrical experiences.

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Coastal Adventure

20%

The Bondi Boat

Harbour cruise, Sydney Heads and Bondi behind the breakers!

Fantasea Adventure Cruising

Whale Watching

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Sydney Seven Wonders

OFF *

Present this voucher at a Fantasea sales office to receive 20% off your next adventure cruise! *excludes special events

fantasea.com.au (02) 9556 9200

Expires 18/09/15

Enjoy one complimentary FULL PRICE TICKET when another FULL PRICE TICKET of equal or greater value is purchased To redeem you must mention this offer when booking via telephone and present this ticket when purchasing or collecting tickets at the box office

MONKEY BAA THEATRE COMPANY

at Lend Lease Darling Quarter Theatre across from the Darling Quarter children’s playground in Darling Harbour

Expires 18/09/15

Box Office: Phone: (02) 8624 9340 / website: www.monkeybaa.com.au

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2014 Sydney Crossword

How well do you know Sydney??

Across

Down

1. The suburb where Sydney Airport is located

2. The highest part of the CBD

4. Sydney’s rugby team

3. Where you will find Fantasea Cruises

5. One of Sydney’s Northern Beaches

7. The area where the Opera House is

6. The town at the top of the Blue Mountains

8. The Prime Minister’s Sydney home

11. Where the ferries dock

9. The suburb on one side of the Harbour Bridge

12. Sydney’s world famous beach

10. One of Sydney’s A-league teams

13. The National Park near Cronulla

11. Sydney’s main train station

14. Wollongong’s nickname 15. The home of cricket in Sydney 16. An island in Sydney Harbour that was used as a prison

LetsGoKids Sydney 2014/15

Answers at www.letsgokids.com.au 37

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Wollongong & Down South Photo courtesy of Dee Kramer Photography

Located just 80 kilometres south of Sydney, Wollongong is a stunning coastal destination nestled between the escarpment and the sea. Its unique landscape makes it home to an endless range of activities and attractions that will delight families visiting for a day trip or weekend away. For the water babies and beach lovers alike, the allure of Wollongong’s 17 patrolled beaches is hard to resist. Learn to surf or paddleboard with one of the surfing schools located along the coast. Or simply bring your shovel, bucket and body board and create your own fun. With over 60 kilometres of cycle ways in and around Wollongong, cycling is an excellent way to explore the city and all that it has to offer. Alternatively, you can stroll the beautiful Blue Mile and take in Wollongong’s stunning harbour and ocean front cafes.

Wollongong Checklist

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Wollongong & Down South

Photo courtesy of Dee Kramer Photography

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Don’t leave Wollongong without having... Visited the serene and picturesque Nan Tien Temple and had a quiet cafe lunch Gone for a walk down around the harbour. Had a swim at fab Nth Wollongong beach. Enjoyed a drink or a meal at the Towradgi Beach Hotel - Activities for kids in a great setting. Played a round of mini golf at the Illawarra Golf Complex (voucher p.43) Taken a short drive across to Thirlmere and spend the day at Trainworks - Steam train rides on Sundays (March - Nov) Gone bowling at Shellharbour Bowl and taken advantage of their Bowl and Eat deal (voucher p...) Visited the Science Centre at Wollongong Uni for some hands on, interactive fun.

- Wollongong & Down South

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$8.50 Child Ticket Present this voucher at Wollongong or Shellharbour Box office to redeem a child ticket for $8.50 each. (one ticket per coupon) Surcharge applies for 3D sessions. Not valid in conjuction with any other offer. Not valid for movie marathons, special events or screenings. Valid to 31/10/2015.

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Located just a short walk from the Harbour is Wollongong’s City Centre – a bustling retail, dining and entertainment hub. Boasting an eclectic array of shops and eateries, the City Centre provides families with plenty of food options from cute cafes to popular restaurants and delicious dessert options for those with a sweet tooth.

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Wollongong & Down South

Photo courtesy of Dee Kramer Photography

Handy Hint

The FREE Gong Shuttle runs every 10 to 20 minutes. The service operates in both directions on a loop from Wollongong Station to Wollongong University via Wollongong Hospital, Burelli Street and the Innovation Campus. The route numbers for the Gong Shuttle are 55A and 55C.

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Whilst you’re strolling the harbour, take note of Wollongong’s rich history as you explore the preserved forts and cannons that dot the Blue Mile. These were built in the late 1800’s to provide a deterrent to a possible Russian attack on Wollongong Harbour. The cannons were restored by Council in 1983 for Heritage Week.

✂ LetsGoKids Sydney 2014/15

Wollongong & Down South Wollongong Events Calendar 2014-2015 For more information on the abundance of things to do, places to stay and food to enjoy in Wollongong go to visitwollongong.com.au. • 26th December 2014 – 21st February 2015: Sunset Cinema (Wollongong Botanic Garden)

• 12th February: Rainforest Garden Walk n’ Talk (Wollongong Botanic Garden) • 6th – 8th March:Tri the Gong (Wollongong Harbour) • 28th – 29th March: Splash and Dash (Wollongong Harbour)

• 3rd January: Sydney FC v Newcastle Jets (WIN Entertainment Centre)

• 25th April: Anzac Centenary Commemorations

• 6th January: Disney Live (WIN Entertainment Centre)

• 2nd – 3rd May: Wings Over Illawarra (Albion Park Regional Airport)

• 9th – 11th January: Honk Oz

• 16th May: Ride Around the Lake (Lake Illawarra)

• 15th – 18th January: 30th Annual Illawarra Folk Festival (Bulli Showground) • 17th – 18th January: Children’s Wonderland (McCabe Park) • 26th January: Australia Day Festivities + the Australia Day Aquathon (Wollongong Harbour)

• 24th May: Swisse The Color Run (Wollongong Harbour) • 30th – 31st May:The Bulli Show (Bulli Showground) Please go to our website for more great Wollongong events: http://www.visitwollongong.com.au/events

For tickets and a full event list go to: www.wsec.com.au

LetsGoKids Sydney 2014/15

Wollongong & Down South

Check out all the family, sporting and entertainment events at WIN Entertainment Centre and WIN Stadium, Wollongong

- Wollongong & Down South

Wollongong also boasts a plethora of family friendly attractions including the Science Centre and Planetarium, Symbio Zoo, Jamberoo Action Park, The Illawarra Museum, The Australia Motorlife Museum, Hangtime Trampoline Park and the Nan Tien Temple – the largest Buddhist Temple in the Southern Hemisphere!

Did You Know

Wollongong has 23 beaches, 17 of which are seasonally patrolled with North Wollongong Beach patrolled, 365 days a year

Zoom Wollongong (see voucher opposite), in the heart of town, is a great place to escape the elements and enjoy a coffee whilst the kids run off some energy. For a challenging game of minigolf, the Illawarra Golf complex (see voucher opposite) is on the road to Shellharbour, where you'll also be able to take advantage of Shellharbour Tenpin's unbelievable Eat and Bowl deal (see opposite). Greater Union also has a large modern movie theatre complex in the Shellharbour area and Wollongong and have a generous voucher offer on P.40, so you can catch all the latest releases.

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Wollongong & Down South

Whether you prefer hotel accommodation, tourist parks or holiday rentals, there is an option to suit every taste and budget. The Novotel Wollongong Northbeach (see below) is, as it suggests right across from the patrolled beach and has an awesome family getaway deal.

Moving a few kilometres inland you’ll find yourself at the base of the Illawarra escarpment with an abundance of walking tracks at your feet and some stunning lookouts a hike away. Alternatively, if you’d prefer to head straight to the top to take in the scenery, the lookouts can be access by car. Sublime Point, Bald Hill, Mt Keira, Mt Kembla and Hill 60 Lookouts are some of the favourites loved by both locals and visitors for their sweeping views of Wollongong and beyond.

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Photo courtesy of Dee Kramer Photography

For those seeking retail therapy, Wollongong’s City Centre is the place to visit with over 400 specialty stores and major retail brands located within Wollongong Central shopping centre and along Crown Street Mall, offering the perfect indoor/ outdoor shopping experience.

LetsGoKids Sydney 2014/15

Wollongong & Down South -

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Expires 18/09/15

Voucher

Zoom Wollongong 65-69 Keira St Wollongong 42284300 www.zoomwollongong.com

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2 for 1 kids entry voucher. ✂

present this voucher to receive 2 childrens entry for the price of one

Buy 1 putt putt

FREE

get one

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(02) 4296 44 27 w ww. illaw arra gol fcom plex .com .au 7 1-91 Wi ndang Rd, Windang NSW

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✂ ✂ LetsGoKids Sydney 2014/15

Wollongong & Down South

Expires 18/09/15

- Wollongong & Down South Hands-on Science Fun for the Whole Family! Open 7 days 10.00am – 4.00pm * Over 100 interactive exhibits * Planetarium Shows & Laser Concerts * Science Shows * Discovery Evenings * Holiday Workshops * Science Shop * Kiosk/Café

Wollongong & Down South

Ph: (02) 4286 5000 sciencecentre.uow.edu.au /sciencecentrewollongong 60 Squires Way, North Wollongong

The Illawarra Fly Treetop Walk A perfect day away for the whole family, the award winning Illawarra Fly Treetop Walk, is one of Australia’s premier treetop walk experiences! It is the only walk of its kind in NSW and one of only a handful of elevated steel treetop walks in the world. The gentle 1.5km return walk takes in native rainforest, has two gently swaying cantilevered arms, and a central tower raised nearly 50m from the forest floor. At 710m above sea level, the stunning views take in everything from the rainforest floor into the canopy and out to the Pacific Ocean. Suitable for all ages and fitness levels, the Treetop Walk is a one of a kind experience that captures the unique beauty of the regions flora and fauna. It takes 1 hr to complete and is wheelchair and pram accessible with a courtesy cart available. Stunning sunrise tours are available on the second Saturday of every month. Sunrise Walks run for three hours from 6 – 9am, with times varying slightly depending on the time of year. For best price – Book online! (Voucher p.39)

LetsGoKids Sydney 2014/15

Hungry? Ah, food………….. mmmmmmm!!! It’s time for a food break and you’ve come to the right place!!! Sydney has an abundance of casual eateries and food experiences that are perfect for a relaxed family meal or that special occasion. We are lucky to have many great pubs and clubs that love families and provide great activities and facilities for the kids. Here is a selection (we could write a whole book) of family friendly eateries.

Photo courtesy of Sally Mayman; Destination NSW

Darling Harbour Beautiful surroundings and Hardrock Café, Pontoon Bar, Hog’s Breath and Pancakes on the Rocks.

Worth a Look!

The Australian Hotel and Brewery in Rouse Hill has two play areas, a multi level climbing frame, soft play area for toddlers FREE Wi-Fi and a real kid’s menu. They also have FREE face painting on Sundays, Nick Kids on TV and colouring in Inner Sydney Centennial Park Café, The Grounds at Alexandria (they even have a resident pig and chooks) and the retro Flood St Carousel in Leichardt. The Hills The Grounds Keeper in Ryde and Arthurs Café in Baulkham Hills will keep them entertained whilst you relax. Out West Spur and Outback Steakhouses have special kid’s deals and activities. Panthers have plenty of things to keep the littlies entertained and the Jamison Hotel has a family feel. Pubs & Clubs Ryde & Castle Hill RSL’s, Terrey Hills and Belrose Hotels possess great play areas and the Ettamogah Hotel and Newport Arms Hotel have so much for the kids that they’ll be begging to stay!

LetsGoKids Sydney 2014/15

SYDNEY SHOPPING

Malls

So... you love to shop, do you? Sydney has it all, from the luxury labels and Aussie fashion, to buzzing indoor and outdoor markets, iconic shopping strips and of course the mega malls and outlets.

Westfield Bondi Junction is huge and has stores to suit all budgets, plenty of restaurants, supermarkets and cinemas.

City Centre Pitt St Mall is the hub of Sydney CBD shopping and is one of the best open air malls anywhere! It contains local and international brands, Westfield, Myer and David Jones, the historic Strand Arcade and a connection to the elegant QV building. The mall also attracts buskers and many city events. Other areas are No1 Martin Place, Broadway and Galeries Victoria.

Westfield Chatswood is a similar offering in the north and Westfield Parramatta in the west is enormous too. All offer similar types of shopping experiences. Birkenhead Point is Sydney’s largest outlet centre with over 100 stores. The views over the harbour are pretty good too! Markets THE Rocks has a vibrant market every weekend that is held in the cobblestoned laneways of the oldest part of Sydney. Excellent art and crafts and lots of mouthwatering foods. Paddy’s Markets at Haymarket are indoor and open Thursday to Sunday and are an easy walk from the CBD and Darling Harbour. The Bondi Markets are held every Sunday at the Bondi Beach Primary School, right opposite the beach and a typical Aussie market. For fresh fruit and veg, the Sydney Produce market at Flemington is open and has so many food options. Just near Sydney Olympic Park with easy access and parking.

Shopping Strips

There are also markets in Glebe, Rozelle and Paddington each Saturday. (Check p.62 for more)

Oxford St Runs from Darlinghurst to Paddington and contains all manner of chain stores, iconic brands and unique local boutiques. Crown St - Surry Hills An interesting mix of new and old, from exciting new design stores to funky retro gear. Hall St – Bondi For all the latest swimwear and surf gear

Handy Hint

When shopping in Sydney’s CBD, the 555 Bus runs the length of the city’s George St and is FREE. This means that as you go about perusing the shops you can get from one destination to the next at no cost and have more to spend on your purchases!!! LetsGoKids Sydney 2014/15

Play / Party

Family Fun for only $25* at Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre Attractions include: • Splasher’s Water Playground • Giant Waterslide • Splasher’s Swirl Amusement Ride • Skywall For more information call 02 9752 3666 or visit www.aquaticcentre.com.au

Under 3’s get in FREE When accompanied by a swimming adult 4 hours free parking *Conditions apply. Family pass consists of entry for 2 Adults and 3 Children or 1 Adult and 4 Children.

LetsGoKids Sydney 2014/15

Play / Party Sydney’s sensational weather means the family can spend lots of time enjoying the great outdoors. You can play, walk, run, swim, climb, ride, picnic, get up close and personal with some animals or just sit in beautiful surroundings and watch the world go by. The city is blessed with a multitude of suburban parks and playgrounds larger regional parks and even a series of National Parks located right on its doorstep. Here is a selection of our favourites: SYDNEY PLAYGROUNDS Blaxland Riverside Park – Sydney Olympic Park Water play facilities, Free BBQ’s, walking and cycling tracks, bike hire and awesome playground

Tumbalong Park – Darling Harbour Well located close to shops and cafes, great equipment and water play features Winnererremy Park – Mona Vale Flying Fox, Spiders Web, swings slides and great adventure playground. Close to the beach and has a bike track too! PARKS Pimelea Picnic Grounds – Abbotsbury Natural playground, flying foxes, climbing walls, water play areas, tyre swings, BBQ’s and plenty of space to move. Rouse Hill Regional Park A dedicated toddler play area, swings, cubby house, a maze, climbing nets and slides. There is a flying fox for the older kids and bike tracks for riding.

Sydney Park – St Peters Playground and slides built into hillside, free undercover BBQ’s, cycle and scooter paths, sandpits and rope bridges. Memorial Park – Cremorne Perfect for littlies, safe toddler proof equipment, bridges and places to explore and an activity trail Mascot Playground (Foster St) Excellent play equipment, sandpit, swings, a train and easy access and parking Hoskins Park – Dulwich Hill Trees and paths, rock climbing wall and rope tunnel Holroyd Gardens – Holroyd Large playground area and a purpose built “road” for the youngsters to start to learn the traffic signs and road rules on. Pirrama Park – Pyrmont Harbourside location, water play features, sandpit slides, musical play equipment, BBQ’s, wooden elevated boardwalk and VIEWS! LetsGoKids Sydney 2014/15

Sydney National Parks Georges River National Park A river habitat for native animals with picnic areas, walking tracks and great views. Royal National park 29kms from the CBD, it was established in 1879, and is the world’s first National Park. It has picnic and camping areas, surf beaches, walking tracks, swimming holes and water sports. Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park 25kms form the city, but you would think you are miles away. Native bushland, gorges, rivers, picnic spots and Indigenous rock engravings. Photo courtesy of Hamilton Lund; Destination NSW

Newington Armory – Sydney Olympic Park The area has heritage train rides, a clue trail (a la Amazing Race), music and arts workshops and school holiday activities.

NETBALL IS A FUN AND INCLUSIVE SPORT, OPEN TO CHILDREN OF ALL ABILITIES.

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letsplaynetball.com.au

NETBALL NSW SCHOOL HOLIDAY CLINICS Great holiday fun for children aged 5 to 12. • • • • • • •

3-hour clinic run by accredited coaches Tailored to all abilities Learn and improve your netball skills Make new friends or have fun with old ones Get lots of exercise in a safe environment Receive a Netball NSW goodie bag; and Certificate of Participation

ONLY $40 PER CHILD For locations and to book your place head online

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Netball NSW School Holiday Clinics Book your place* today at netballnsw.com and enter the promo code “NETBALL” to receive your discount. Expires on: 30/9/15 *Limited places available

Play / Party Sydney Beaches Beaches – Aaaaahhh – That’s what I’m talking about! Sydney has some of the most pristine white sand beaches anywhere in the world!!! Add in all of the great harbour and riverside beaches, and there is always somewhere nearby to take a dip and cool off or build a sandcastle. Of course everyone knows world famous Bondi, but the Northern Beaches of Manly, Narrabeen, Avalon and Palm Beach are great, as is Bundeena down south. The harbour has small beaches scattered all around with grassy park areas attached. Watson’s and Double Bay have cafes and restaurants nearby to make a day of it.

Photo courtesy of Hamilton Lund; Destination NSW

Handy Hint When the weather is a little on the cool or damp side, and playing in the elements may not be an option, there is always plenty of places to have some indoor fun. On the right you will find a selection.

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• Strike Bowling - 1300 787 453 • AMF Bowling - 02 9746 0700 • Putt Putt Planet - 02 9522 7888 • The Powerhouse Museum - 02 9217 0111 • Australian Museum - 02 9320 6000 • SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium - 02 8251 7800 • WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo - 1800 206 158 • Madame Tussauds - 1800 205 851 • Sydney Tower Eye -1800 258 693 • Manly SEA LIFE Sanctuary - 1800 199 742 • Sydney Indoor Climbing Gym - 9728 2825 • Sydney Ice Arena: Ice Skating Rink - 9659 5557 • Macquarie Ice Rink - 9888 1100 • Penrith Ice Palace - 4733 2611 • IMAX Cinemas - www.imax.com.au • Event Cinemas - www.eventcinemas.com.au • Hoyts Cinemas - www.hoyts.com.au • Chipmunks Indoor Play Centre: Villawood and Macquarie Park - 9725 6140 • The Jitterbugs - 0403 222 447 • Jungle Buddies - 1300 883 819 • Peek-a-Boo Playland - 8544 1423 • Sky Zone Indoor Tramp Park - 13 75 99 • Big Blast Indoor Playcentre - 0410 221 235 • Hyde Park Barracks - 02 8239 2311 • Cook & Philip Park Aquatic - 02 9326 0444 • Ian Thorpe Aquatic Centre - 02 9518 7220 • Australian National Maritime Museum - 02 9298 3777 • Monkey Mania - 02 9380 9525 • Wizzy World - 02 9882 1444

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Expires 31/10/15 **Not redeemable for cash Not available with any other offer Please present this voucher to receive this offer

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MONKEY BAA THEATRE COMPANY

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LetsGoKids Sydney 2014/15

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at Lend Lease Darling Quarter Theatre across from the Darling Quarter children’s playground in Darling Harbour

Watch Most cities in the world have 1, maybe 2, 3 or 4 professional sporting teams, but Sydney has 16! There is always something happening at the SCG, Sydney Football Stadium, Olympic Park, Sydney Entertainment Centre or the suburban home stadiums of the NRL teams like Brookvale, Parramatta, Balmain and Penrith. These boutique stadiums offer a look at what hometown support is really like. Check out our fixtures on the following pages for all the sporting teams, read about their players, buy a membership, but most of all – Get out there and get involved. Sydney Kings Qantas Credit Union Arena Date Nov 9

Match Sydney Kings vs. Adelaide 36ERS

Time 2.00PM

Nov 16 Nov 20 Dec 6 Dec 18 Dec 26 Jan 2 Jan 9 Jan 25 Feb 8 Feb 15 Feb 20

Sydney Kings vs. Perth Wildcats Sydney Kings vs. Cairns Taipans Sydney Kings vs. NZ Breakers Sydney Kings vs. Perth Wildcats Sydney Kings vs. NZ Breakers Sydney Kings vs. Melbourne United Sydney Kings vs. Townsville Crocs Sydney Kings vs. Adelaide 36ERS Sydney Kings vs. Cairns Taipans Sydney Kings vs. Wollongon Hawks Sydney Kings vs. Melbourne United

2.00PM 7.30PM 7.30PM 7.30PM 7.30PM 7.30PM 7.30PM 2.00PM 2.00PM 2.00PM 7.30PM

Josh Childress DOB.. 20.06.83 Height.. 203cm (6’8”) Junior Club.. Southern California All-Stars Hometown.. Compton, CA, USA Position.. Forward Number.. 7 Favourite drill.. The Mikan Drill Favourite non-basketball pastime..Videogames Something we don’t know about you.. I read alot of books Favourite food.. Tacos Childress attended Mayfair High School in Lakewood, California. Besides playing basketball in high school he also played volleyball during his senior year. He led his high school volleyball team, the Monsoons, to an undefeated record and he was voted to the All-League volleyball team. Childress also played NBA for - Atlanta Hawks, Pheonix Suns, Brooklyn Nets and New Orleans Pelicans before coming out to Australia.

Sydney Kings

QANTAS CREDIT UNION ARENA, VISIT WWW.TICKETEK.COM.AU

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LetsGoKids Sydney 2014/15

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Brett Lee

One of the true ‘rockstars’ in the Sixers line-up, former Australian fast bowler and Sixers spearhead Brett Lee has been one of the favourites among the fans in the first three seasons of the Big Bash League. While retired from First Class and One Day cricket, ‘Binga’ has remained heavily involved in the shortest form of the game, enjoying stints in the IPL including with the Kolkata Knight Riders. The fastest Australian bowler of all time, Lee has taken 310 Test wickets, 380 ODI wickets and 38 T20I wickets in his career, making him one of the most successful Australian cricketers ever to play the game. Away from cricket ‘Binga’ has his own fashion brand, THE BL collection, and spends time running his foundation ‘Mewsic’ – combining his love of music and India to help provide a better life for underprivileged children on the sub-continent.

Sydney 6ers

This season’s Big Bash series is going to be a beauty and kicks off nationally on 18th December with the summer’s fiercest rivalry between Sydney’s 6’s and Thunder beginning on the 27th of December at ANZ Stadium. The fast paced non stop action is something the whole family will love. Make sure you experience the thrill of T-20 this summer. Sydney 6ERS SCG Date Dec 19

Match Sydney 6ers vs. Melbourne Renegades

Time 7.40PM

Dec 29 Jan 9 Jan 14

Sydney 6ers vs. Perth Scorchers Sydney 6ers vs. Sydney Thunder Sydney 6ers vs. Adelaide Strikers

7.10PM 7.10PM 7.40PM

Sydney Thunder ANZ Stadium Date Dec 21

Match Sydney Thunder vs. Brisbane Heat

Time 7.10PM

Dec 27

Sydney Thunder vs. Sydney 6ers

7.10PM

Spotless Stadium Jan 7 Jan 17

Sydney Thunder vs. Hobart Hurricanes Sydney Thunder vs. Melbourne Stars

7.10PM 7.10PM

The Cricket World Cup The ICC World Cup comes to Australia this summer, as both NZ and Australia play host to the 11th staging of the tournament, which is held every four years. Games will be played in Sydney on Feb 27, Mar 8, Mar 13.

Sydney Sixers vs Melbourne Renegades 19 December - Gates 6pm Sydney Sixers vs Perth Scorchers 29 December - Gates 5.30pm Sydney Sixers vs Sydney Thunder 9 January - Gates 5.30pm Sydney Sixers vs Adelaide Heat 14 January- Gates 6pm Memberships & tickets on sale now at sydneysixers.com.au

LetsGoKids Sydney 2014/15

Watch Cricket World Cup Sydney Cricket Ground Pool

Feb 27 Mar 8 Mar 13

South Africa vs. West Indies Australia vs. Sri Lanka England vs Afghanistan

Photo courtesy of Ethan Rohloff; Destination NSW

B A A

Date (2015) Match

Sports Event Ticketing Ticketmaster | Ph: 136 100 | www.ticketmaster.com.au Super Rugby / Big Bash T20 / Shield Cricket / Test Cricket / ODI / A-League / AFL (GWS Giants) Ticketek | Ph: 13 28 49 | ticketek.com.au National Rugby League / Big Bash T20 / Shield Cricket / Test Cricket / ODI / ICC Cricket World Cup / A-League / NBL / ANZ Netball Championship / AFL (Sydney Swans) ABL | Ph: (02) 9675 6872 | web.theabl.com.au/tickets Australian Baseball League

LetsGoKids Sydney 2014/15

Mike Hussey Mike Hussey has become one of the legends of the modern era, and is one of the most respected players in the game. In his second season with the Thunder “Huss” is helping to build a strong roster and instil a high-performance culture within the squad. In BBL|03 as captain he made 258 runs at an average of 36.86 , proving he is still amongst the best in the business. Growing up, Hussey was a keen student of the game with a range of books detailing the history of cricket adorning the room he shared with younger brother, and fellow International cricketer, David. Most people would also be surprised to know that he is “blind as a bat” and needs to use contact lenses to play! ‘I am really excited by the challenges that are ahead for the Thunder in becoming a major force in the Big Bash League.’ Mike Hussey

Sydney Thunder

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Paige Hadley DOB: 26/08/1992 Height: 173cm Position: C/WA/WD Occupation: University Student Age started Playing: 7 First Netball Club: St Clair Netball Club Best Thing about Netball: Love playing in a team, the competition, the camaraderie & the challenges that netball throws at you. Tip for Young Players: Love what you do. No matter how big the setback is, be true to yourself & be grateful for those positive people that challenge you & motivate you to be the best you can be. Netball Career Highlights: 2013 Australian Diamonds Team, 2013 21/U Austtralian Player of the Year, 2013 Fast5 World Series Silver Medallist, 2013 21/U World Youth Champs Silver Medallist

NSW SWIFTS NSW Swifts 2015 Sydney Olympic Park Sports Centre

Date Mar 15

Match NSW Swifts vs. Queensland Firebirds

Rnd 3

Mar 23 Apr 19 May 3 May 10 May 17

NSW Swifts vs. West Coast Fever NSW Swifts vs. Northern Mystics NSW Swifts vs. Melbourne Vixens NSW Swifts vs. Adelaide Thunderbirds NSW Swifts vs. Mainland Tactix

4 8 10 11 12

Sydney Blue Sox - Blue Sox Stadium Week 3

Match Sydney Blue Sox vs. Canberra Cavalry

Date 13 Nov - 16 Nov

5 7 9 11 13

Sydney Blue Sox vs. Perth Heat Sydney Blue Sox vs. Adelaide Bite Sydney Blue Sox vs. Brisbane Bandits Sydney Blue Sox vs. Melbourne Aces Sydney Blue Sox vs. Canberra Cavalry

27 Nov - 30 Nov 11 Dec - 14 Dec 26 Dec - 29 Dec 8 Jan - 11 Jan 22 Jan - 25 Jan

Craig Anderson Hometown: Ourimbah, NSW Hobbies: Golf, Family, Movies, Rugby League Fav Food: Chicken Parmigiana Favourite Cartoon: I’m going to say Sofia The First, for my 1 year old daughter, as that’s on all the time in our house now. Fav Music Artist: U2, Live How did you first get into baseball: My dad played so I’ve always been around the game.

Sydney FC Allianz Stadium Date Nov 15

Match Sydney FC vs. Melbourne Victory

Time 7.30PM

Dec 4 Dec 21 Dec 26 Jan 3

Sydney FC vs. Perth Glory Sydney FC vs. Wellington Pheonix Sydney FC vs. Adelaide United Sydney FC vs. Newcastle Jets (Held at WIN Stadium) Sydney FC vs. Melbourne Victory Sydney FC vs. Central Coast Mariners Sydney FC vs. Brisbane Roar Sydney FC vs. Melbourne City FC Sydney FC vs. Adelaide United

7.30PM 5.00PM 7.45PM 7.30PM

Feb 14 Feb 21 Mar 14 Mar 20 Apr 4

7.30PM 5.00PM 7.30PM 7.40PM 7.30PM

Terry Antonis A superstar in the making and boasting a skill set unseen before, Terry is one of Sydney FC’s most important players with his ball skills and control, vision and creativeness – all developed well beyond his youthful years. Date of birth.. 26/11/1993 Height.. 178cm Place of birth.. Greenacre, Sydney Junior club.. St Christopher’s Nickname.. Tezza I support.. Chelsea Biggest influence.. My family My last meal would be a.. Paul’s Famous Hamburgers in Sylvania My pre-game superstitions.. Always say a prayer My greatest football achievement.. Getting picked for the Socceroos and playing for my country My goal for the 2014/15 season.. Win the Championship with Sydney

Sydney FC

Western Sydney Wanderers Pirtek Stadium Date Nov 19

Match Wanderers vs. Central Coast Mariners

Time 7.30PM

Nov 22 Nov 29 Dec 3 Dec 13 Jan 1 Jan 6 Feb 8

Wanderers vs. Newcastle Jets Wanderers vs. Sydney FC Wanderers vs. Brisbane Roar Wanderers vs. Melbourne City FC Wanderers vs. Central Coast Mariners Wanderers vs. Melbourne Victory Wanderers vs. Wellington Pheonix (Held at Sportingbet Stadium) Wanderers vs. Sydney FC Wanderers vs. Melbourne Victory Wanderers vs. Newscastle Jets Wanderers vs. Melbourne City FC Wanderers vs. Adelaide United Wanderers vs. Perth Glory

5.00PM 7.30PM 7.30PM 5.00PM 7.30PM 7.30PM 5.00PM

Feb 28 Mar 13 Mar 21 Apr 3 Apr 18 Apr 25

7.30PM 7.40PM 5.00PM 7.40PM 5.00PM 5.00PM

LetsGoKids Sydney 2014/15

WATCH THE WORLD’S BEST REPRESENT THE SWIFTS IN 2015

SIX MASSIVE HOME GAMES Sydney Olympic Park, March to May

NSW SWIFTS BLOCKBUSTER VS Allphones Arena, Sunday 3 May, 2015 BLOCKBUSTER GROUP OFFER AVAILABLE FOR THE LATEST NSW SWIFTS NEWS & VIEWS PLUS TICKET & MEMBERSHIP INFORMATION

nswswifts.com.au FOLLOW US AT

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Israel Folau This 25-year-old is a superstar of rugby union, winning the Wallabies’ Rookie of the Year award in his first year as a pro, and the Super Rugby Championship with NSW Waratahs a year later! Height: 193cm Weight: 103kg D.O.B: 03/04/1989 Place of Birth: Minto, NSW Pet Name: Izzy / Big Man Favourite ice cream flavour? Vanilla. Favourite subject at school? PE/ sport. What were you scared of as a child? Spiders. Favourite meal? Mum’s fried chicken. Favourite car? A Ferrari. Favourite super hero? Superman! What would you be if you were an animal? An eagle.

NSW Waratahs 2015 ANZ Stadium Date Feb 15

Match Waratahs vs. Western Force

Time 4.00PM

Mar 22 Mar 28 Apr 11 Apr 25 May 16 May 23 June 13

Waratahs vs. Brumbies Waratahs vs. Blues Waratahs vs. Stormers Waratahs vs. Melbourne Rebels Waratahs vs. The Sharks Waratahs vs. Crusaders Waratahs vs. Reds

4.00PM 7.30PM 7.30PM 7.30PM 7.30PM 7.30PM 7.30PM

Sydney Swans 2015 Fixture Round 1

Apr 4

Sydney vs. Essendon

ANZ Stadium

Round 3

Apr 18

Sydney vs. GWS

SCG Round 5

May 2

Sydney vs. Western Bulldogs

SCG

Round 7

May 16

Sydney vs. Geelong

ANZ Stadium

Round 9

May 29

Sydney vs. Carlton

SCG

Round 13

Jun 26

Sydney vs. Richmond

SCG

Round 14

Jul 2

Sydney vs. Port Adelaide

SCG

Round 16

Jul 18

Sydney vs. Hawthorn

ANZ Stadium

Round 18

Jake Friend

Aug 1 Aug 14

SCG

Sydney vs. Gold Coast Suns

SCG

GWS Giants 2015 Fixture Round 2

Apr 11

GWS vs. Melbourne

StarTrack Oval

Round 4

Apr 25

GWS vs. Gold Coast Suns

StarTrack Oval

Round 6

May 9

GWS vs. Hawthorn

Spotless Stadium

Round 8

May 23

GWS vs. Adelaide

Spotless Stadium

Round 10

Jun 7

GWS vs. Brisbane

Spotless Stadium Round 12

Jun 20

GWS vs. North Melbourne

Spotless Stadium

Round 15

Jul 12

GWS vs. St Kilda

Spotless Stadium Round 17

Jul 25

GWS vs. Geelong

StarTrack Oval Round 19

GWS vs. Essendon

Spotless Stadium

Round 21

Aug 22

GWS vs. Sydney

Spotless Stadium Round 22

Aug 29

Sydney vs. Collingwood Round 23

Aug 9

Sydney Roosters

SCG

Round 20

TBC

Date of Birth: 01-02-1990 Height:175 Weight: 92 Position: Hooker Junior Clubs: Noosa Pirates Club Debut: Roosters v Bulldogs, SFS, 27/6/08 Nickname: Nug Birthplace: Nambour QLD Career Highlights: Grand Final/PM XIII Hobbies: Going to the beach & playing Golf Favourite holiday destination: Bali Favourite TV show: Two and A Half Men. Jake was born and raised on the Sunshine Coast. He moved to Sydney in 2008 to link up with the Sydney Roosters on a scholarship. This is where he has gone onto make number 9 jersey his own and forged a reputation as one of the fittest and hardworking players in the NRL.

Sydney vs. Adelaide

GWS vs. Carlton

Spotless Stadium

LetsGoKids Sydney 2014/15

Wot's On Calling all kids, mums, dads, aunties, uncles, big sisters and brothers, grandmas and grandpas – WE WANT YOU!!!! Sydney is busy all year round with plenty of special kid’s events, family themed activities and shows, movies and concerts as well as the good old weekend markets. Best of all - Most of them are FREE! TO KEEP UP TO DATE WITH EVERYTHING OUR ADVERTISERS HAVE GOING ON GO TO THE “WOT’S ON” BUTTON ON OUR WEBSITE: www.letsgokids.com.au AND WHILE YOU’RE THERE, SIGN UP FOR OUR GREAT MONTHLY E-NEWSLETTER AND DOWNLOAD OUR NEW APP AT: www.letsgokids.com.au/app

Daily/Weekly/Monthly Daily The Emperors’s Quest at Chinese Garden of Friendship The 12 animals of the Chinese lunar calendar are hidden in the Chinese Garden. Each one has its own character and a whole treasure chest of legends—and one of the animals is you. A new adventure for the whole family, 9.30am – 5pm daily, except Good Friday and Christmas Day Chinese Garden of Friendship, southern end of Darling Harbour (02) 9240 8888 www.darlingharbour.com Fish Feeding at Chinese Garden of Friendship Join the garden’s horticulture team at 11.30am every day in the Lenient Jade Pavilion to feed the magnificent koi. Help the team attract the fish by clapping loudly, then share in the experience of feeding these colourful ‘living jewels’. The koi in the garden are descended from a type of black carp called ‘magoi’ and are fed three times a day with floating fish pellets (similar to tropical fish food). (02) 9240 8888 Chinese Garden Lenient Jade Pavilion Pier Street, Darling Harbour. Daily until Sunday Mystery Of The Munchers Explore the Garden to find the six mystery stops. It’s a wild world out there - and who is munching who? 30th November Enjoy fun hands-on activities and discover some amazing relationships between plants and animals. 9.30 am to 5.00 pm daily 4567 3000 The Blue Mountains Botanic Garden, Mount Tomah www.bluemts.com.au Weekly

Weekdays

Wednesdays & Saturdays

Monthly Monthly

Penrith Showground Markets - Penrith Penrith Markets are the biggest midweek markets in Sydney and go ahead rain, hail, or shine. Some of the market is undercover, but it is primarily outdoors. The market has between 250 - 300 stalls each week. Plants, fruit and vegetables, clothing, lingerie, tools, craft supplies, auto supplies, pets, bric-a-brac and more. There is a dining room and kiosk with meals available on site. Plenty of free parking. 02 4721 0509 Penrith Paceway Penrith www.clubpacewaypenrith.com.au Danks Street Markets Weekly weekend market located at Danks Street Plaza Waterloo with a range of produce, homewares, artisan, fair trade and more. Danks Street Plaza, 2 Danks Street Waterloo 02 9999 2226 www.organicfoodmarkets.com.au ; office@organicfoodmarkets.com.au Rock N Rhymetime For kids who are ready for action with music, rhymes, movement and stories. This session is for those too old for lapsit and too wriggly for storytime. Glebe Library, 186 Glebe Point Road 9265 9333 Monday: Newtown Library Tuesday: Glebe Library Wednesday: Green Square Library and Kings Cross Library Thursday Surry Hills Library and Ultimo Library Friday: Waterloo Library Marine Biologist For A Day Prepare the food and feed the amazing creatures in the Bay of Rays exhibit and be amongst the very few people who can say they built a toy for an octopus. Learn about coral propagation, test water pH and oxygen levels of the tanks and even conduct observation procedures for the beloved dugongs. (02) 8251 7800 Sydney Aquarium 1-5 Wheat Road, Darling Harbour www.sydneyaquarium.com.au/experiences/marine-biologist-for-a-day/ Whale Curios From the Museum The museum has delved deep into its collection and bought to the surface a range of fun, quirky and utilitarian whale-related artefacts. On display are fascinating curiosities such as a glove stretcher, a pie crimper and dolls made from whalebone. Tools, games and everyday items such as a toothbrush show the widespread use of whale products in the past. www.anmm.gov.au Markets @ Panthers This is a monthly market with a huge range for everybody to enjoy. The third Sunday of every month from 9am to 2pm and take a look around the 90 plus stalls. Face painting, a jumping castle, pony rides, mini golf, mobile slot car racing, Harley trike rides for the kids, and a great range of tasty treats for everyone to enjoy. 02 4733 2411 Mulgoa Road Penrith South www.panthersmarket.com.au

LetsGoKids Sydney 2014/15

Wot's On Monthly 1st Sunday of Every Month 1st Sunday of Every Month

November Monday 17th November

Wascoe Siding Passengers are invited to bring family and friends to picnic in the grounds and ride on the trains. The train trip involves three laps of the park, including two laps through the tunnel, before returning to the station. Great day out for families with children. 02 4739 2677 Time: 10am-4pm Cost: $2 per train ride. Disney Fairies Trail at Mount Tomah Come on a magical Blue Mountains adventure. Use the free Disney Fairies Trail app to discover Disney fairies fluttering amongst the flowers and trees in some of the Garden’s most beautiful and enchanted places Self-guided tour, Every day throughout summer Pick up a booklet with Disney Fairy activities and a collector passport from the Visitor Centre. 4567 3000 The Blue Mountains Botanic Garden, Mount Tomah High Tea for Mums and Bubs, Dads and Tots Lagoon is hosting High Tea for Mums and Bubs, Dads and Tots, once per month on a Monday. There will be loads of kid’s activities provided by sponsors. Aimed at babies, toddlers and children aged zero to five, The Lagoon offers a haven for everyone to enjoy morning tea in a relaxed atmosphere while their kids are entertained. Bookings essential. 4226 1677 jonni@lagoonrestaurant.com.au www.lagoonrestaurant.com.au

Saturday 22th November

I, Bunyip I, Bunyip embraces the characters of these ancient stories and brings new friends from the oceans and rivers, bushland and deserts. Introduce yourself to Nyols, Yawk Yawks, and Turongs, brought to life by puppet theatre company Erth Visual and Physical. 02 9250 7777 Sydney Opera House

Sunday 23rd November

Sydney Rock ‘N’ Roll & Alternative Market Part market, part music festival, part meeting place Sydney Rock ‘n’ Roll & Alternative Market is a place where you can have one of Sydney’s most unique shopping experiences and a fabulous day out. Manning Bar & Manning House, Manning Road University of Sydney 2006 02 9563 6000 www.manningbar.com

Wednesday 26th November

Mums and Bubs - Memory Park A fun and informative day supported by local chemists with free samples and advice. Qualified Mothercraft Nurse to offer support and advice on all things baby. Meet new mums whilst the little ones enjoy a block building area, reading corner, playtime and craft. Memory Park, Cnr Woodriff st and High st Penrith 4722 5566

Friday 28th November

Schools Spectacular 2014 Come along and celebrate the beauty of our country schools spectacular 2014 this is australia 3,600 performers from 400 public schools 33 Featured Artists, 2,000 dancers, 1,300 voice choir Friday 28 & 29 November 2014 Qantas Credit Union Arena marks the 31st Anniversary of the extraordinary Schools Spectacular. 132 849 www.ticketek.com.au

Saturday 29th November

Wild Things: Family Nature Play Day In Centennial Park Come and join Centennial Parklands nature rangers for a morning of nature play, challenge and adventure. Centennial Park 02 9339 6699 info@centennialparklands.com.au

December Monday 8th December to Friday 23 January

The Wiggles Apples and Bananas Tour Bigger, brighter and wigglier than ever, Australia’s favourite children’s entertainment group are gearing up to bring their new live performance, THE WIGGLES’ BIG SHOW! to a city near you. The national tour kicks off in December, and is their most exciting live show yet. Allphones Arena Buy tickets: premier.ticketek.com.au Wild Flight Experience Opens At Wild Life Sydney Zoo This Summer fun is flying into WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo with the all-new WILD Flight – a self-propelled ride where kids and parents alike will experience flight through the attraction’s aviary. Wildlife Sydney, Aquarium Wharf Darling Harbour www.wildlifesydney.com.au 02 9333 9232

Wednesday 10th December to Sunday 28th

The Tiger Who Came To Tea Following a smash-hit west end season, this much loved tale tale of a tea-guzzling tiger is vividly brought to life on stage. This delightful family show is a heart warming adventure of wonder and surprise. sydneyoperahouse.com

Saturday 20th December

Carols in the Domain Woolworths Carols in the Domain is Australia’s largest free Christmas concert. Looking forward to yet another star studded event. Free, family event. No alcohol. Public transport advised. 12.00noon: Event carnival kicks off. Sponsor marquees, public catering, and children’s carnival 3.00pm: carolsTV with Sally Stanton and pre-show entertainment on stage 8.30pm: Carols in the Domain concert commences11.00pm Event finishes www.carolsinthedomain.com Kids in the Park at Sydney Olympic Park Fun activities to enjoy at Sydney Olympic Park this school holidays from 21 December to 26 January. Kids in the Park is NSW largest school holiday program. There is something on every single day to keep your little creative, sports star or adventurer entertained. Plus many are FREE or less than $20, making it affordable to keep your kids happy all summer long. www.kidsinthepark.com.au

Saturday 21st December

LetsGoKids Sydney 2014/15

Wot's On December Wednesday 31st December

January Thursday 1st January

Wednesday 7th to Saturday 17th January

Monday 26th January

February Saturday 7th to Sunday 15th February Saturday 21st to Sunday 22nd February

Sydney New Years Eve Fireworks Show Sydney New Year’s Eve is an annual multi-tiered event held every New Year’s Eve over Sydney Harbour, centring on the Harbour Bridge in Sydney, Australia. Its main features are two pyrotechnic displays, the “9pm Family Fireworks” and the “Midnight Fireworks”, both of which are televised nationally +61 2 9265 9333 council@cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au www.sydneynewyearseve.com LEGO Pompeii @ Nicholson Museum Following on from the huge success of the LEGO Colosseum and the LEGO Acropolis, Sydney University’s Nicholson Museum is sticking with its unique, crowd-pleasing formula for yet another journey to classical antiquity. This time it’s Pompeii that will get the full LEGO treatment and be on display from January 2015. Nicholson Museum, The Quadrangle, Sydney University sydney.edu.au/museums/collections/nicholson Band of Magicians Join magic superstars Justin Willman, Nate Staniforth, Justin Flom and Australia’s own James Galea on a journey only the sharpest minds in magic could create.After a sell-out season at the Sydney Festival in 2014, Band of Magicians returns to Australia exclusively to The Palms at Crown, bringing a world of mind-bending illusions and astounding artistry as they present a virtuosic performance of imagination and ingenuity. Read more at premier.ticketek.com.au Australia Day at the Lakes There’s something for everyone with over 3 hours of non-stop free entertainment. For the young and youngat-heart: Despicable Me 2 will meet and greet and perform a stage show; and former yellow Wiggle Greg Page will send you on an adventure with Butterscotch’s Playground. And our ever popular and spectacular fireworks finale! Sydney International Regatta Centre, Penrith Lakes 6.00pm 1300 736 836 www.penrithcity.nsw.gov.au Australia Day - Manly Celebrate Australia Day in Manly from 8.00am at Manly Council Chambers forecourt, opposite Manly Wharf. Celebrations will include a Citizenship Ceremony and the presentation of the Local Citizen of the Year Awards, for citizens who have made an outstanding achievement and/or contribution to the local community www.manly.nsw.gov.au Australia Day - Bicentennial Park The always beautiful Bicentennial Park for another Australia Day celebration. Bring along your family and friends and enjoy a fun-filled day that will be packed with food stalls brimming with gourmet delights, live entertainment to excite, there will be things to see and lots to do! info@sydneyolympicpark.com.au Hurley Ausstralian Open of Surfing Sydney’s Manly Beach will again host The Hurley Australian Open of Surfing in February 2015, as some of the world’s most revered surf and skateboard talent gather at this iconic location to impress. www.australianopenofsurfing.com Luddenham Show 2015 Lots of entertainment in store for the whole family, Live performances, Excellent Sideshows and Rides for the Kids and crazy at heart, Stalls- Quality Food, Produce, Arts, Crafts and Knickknacks for sale, Yank-A-Ute Competition! Rodeo! Fireworks! Mini Motorcross! ...Art, Craft, Flora and Fauna Exhibits... Enter Now to Win! HEAPS MORE...TOO MUCH TO LIST! www.luddenhamshow.com.au

March Friday 6th to Octonauts Live! Operation Reef Shield Sydney Saturday 7th March Captain Barnacles and his trusty crew join forces with a host of colourful Australian reef dwellers on a mission to save the Great Barrier Reef! When the Octonauts deploy a new undersea medical station designed to keep the reef clean and healthy, they discover a problem that threatens the reef dwellers and their home, Capitol Theatre bookings at lifeliketouring.com/shows/octonautslive. Saturday 21st March

August Saturday 29th to 30th August

Penrith CBD Festival The Penrith CBD Festival is on once again 21st March 2015. Proudly sponsored this year by Penrith RSL - A celebration of our ANZACS. Market stalls, vintage themed street parade, performance stages, kids activities, rides and much much more. More details to follow closer to the event. www.penrithcitycentre.com.au Penrith District Show 2015 At the Annual Show there will be Arts & Crafts on displays as well as ring events which will include a variety of Horse events. Other sections of the show not to be missed are our new Poultry Pavilion, Dog High Jump events, Cage Birds, Dairy Goats, Cooking and Preserves, School Subjects and Junior Art, Photography, Woodchop. starting time will be 9.00am to 10.30pm Saturday and 9.00am to 5.00pm Sunday. Family tickets for (2 adults and 4 children) $45.00/Adult, $16.00, Children 5-16 years $9.00, Pensioners and Seniors $9.00.

LetsGoKids Sydney 2014/15

HISTORY - Find out what happened in 1886 when Mt Tarawera erupted and engulfed the area www.buriedvillage.co.nz

CULTURE - NZ’s Maori cultural capital of song, dance and food is showcased like no other at Mitai

STAY - in the middle of the action in a park of exceptional quality (and value)

New Zealand’s family playground

ROTORUA

The “heart” of the North Island

Auckland Rotorua

With direct flights from Sydney and only 2.5 hours’ drive from Auckland, Rotorua is a perfect base from which to explore the North Island. Towering volcanoes, picturesque lakes, bubbling streams, boiling mud and erupting geysers means the area has an unrivalled natural landscape. There are theme parks, animal shows, luge, bungy, mountain bike trails, history, cultural shows, tree surfing and jet boats… Take it slow or do it fast… Rotorua is THE place that families come to play!

The ultimate adrenalin rush in spectacular surroundings Can you handle it?

make sure you enquire about our great group & school rates