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SPRING 2014 OCTOBER - JANUARY
Contents
What’s On in Sydney has been FEATURES informing visitors to Sydney since 1969. Now available all over Around the harbour Sydney and beyond, the magazine has helped over 80 million people Shopping in Sydney discover and enjoy the best Sydney Darling Harbour showcase has to offer.
56 66 68 80
The Rocks
Manly and the Northern Beaches
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Sydney’s West
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Nor th to the Central Coast and the Hunter Valley
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REGULARS From the Minister Publisher: Gary Israelsohn Contributing Editor: Ashleigh Ryan Art/Design: Millington Design Printed by: Offset Alpine Printing Distributed by: The Informed Tourist and The What’s On in Sydney distribution department. To order more Free copies email orders@whatsoninsydney.com.au
600 000 per annum* We would like to thank Destination NSW and the Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority for supplying many of the images in this magazine. What’s On in Sydney is a member of the Tourism Industry Council of NSW
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What’s new
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What’s on
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This month
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Get your bearings
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Must see
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Need more info
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MEET THE DUGONGS Sydney is the only place where you can come face to face with the famous Dugongs Pig and Weru. The new Dugong Island at SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium is a brand new experience allowing guests to walk amongst an underwater shipwreck whilst admiring the only pair of Dugongs on display in the world! Full story page 10.
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Published by: Welcome Publishing Trust PO Box 762 Chatswood NSW 2057 Phone 02 8088 0743 Fax 02 8001 6216 email: editor@whatsoninsydney.com.au facebook.com.au/WhatsOninSydney www.whatsoninsydney.com.au
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Special offers
IN SYDNEY SPRING 2014 OCTOBER - JANUARY ue At Kylie Minoguds Sydney Tussa Madame
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Now over 33 000 fans on Facebook. Join our mailing list and get the latest offerings and win tickets to many Sydney Attractions.
A message from the Hon Andrew Stoner MP, NSW Deputy Premier and Minister for Tourism and Major Events
O
n behalf of the NSW Government, I extend a warm welcome to all visitors to Sydney and New South Wales. The spring and summer months are a glorious time of the year to visit our fabulous harbour city and to explore all that Regional NSW has to offer. Visitors will experience warm, sunny days whilst discovering spectacular beaches, the stunning natural scenery and exciting attractions across the state and enjoy our fantastic shopping and delicious food and wine. Across the state there is a packed line-up of world-class events on offer as part of the NSW Events Calendar. There is such a stellar list of events on offer, I’ve no doubt that all visitors to Sydney and NSW will have a great time whatever the season. I wish you a wonderful stay. Andrew Stoner NSW Deputy Premier Minister for Tourism and Major Events
From the Publisher Welcome to our beautiful city, which truly shines all year round. Sydney blossoms in Spring, which is a gorgeous time to be in Sydney.There is an incredible amount of things going on for you to enjoy. We strive to capture the best of Sydney in our pages and give you a snapshot look at what’s available to you in the city and surroundings. Have a great time in Sydney, “The best city in the world.” Gary Israelsohn & the team at What’s On in Sydney
Gift To The Royal Family
Commissioned in partnership with The Australian Monarchist League, Australian Opal Cutters prepared a natural Queensland Boulder opal split to present to Prince William and Princess Catherine,The Duke & Duchess of Cambridge during their recent visit to Australia. “The two halves that complete this beautiful gem pair of opals not only represent Australia’s national gemstone and the official NSW state emblem but gloriously reflect the strength of our Commonwealth partnership and the benefits of our shared history. Separated geographically, with one half in Kensington Palace and the other in Australia, the opals will continue to symbolize our unity of purpose, peace and goodwill under our constitutional monarchy system.” Visit Australian Opal Cutters today to view this rare and magnificent opal specimen. For more info visit
australianopalcutters.com.au or call 9261 2442. The Publishers have made every reasonable effort to ensure the accuracy of materials contained in the publication including, information, dates, prices, opening times and locations. What’s on in Sydney cannot be held responsible for any changes, which may occur. Please check with the venue / advertiser directly for final confirmations of prices, times and events. Reproduction in whole or in part is prohibited.
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Book a guided tour and get closer than ever or wander the grounds at your own pace. Take in over 20 keeper talks and shows, enjoy animal encounters and marvel at the spectacular harbour views from the Sky Safari, Sydney’s only cable car, free with admission.
BOOK TODAY! taronga.org.au or call 02 9969 2777
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Mention What’s On in Sydney Magazine when booking by phone. Please take the magazine with you and show the magazine at the ticket office when you arrive to make a booking. All vouchers are subject to the individual advertisers terms and conditions / availability and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Valid for one entry or service only.
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WHALE WATCHING SYDNEY
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SKYDIVE ¦ CLIMB ¦ GALLERIES ¦ MUST SEE ¦ MUSEUMS ¦ THEATRE
What’s new Here are some of the best things to do and see around the city.
Dugongs are Unique Meet the Dugongs in Sydney. The only pair on display in the world at the exciting all new SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium experience. Visit the aptly named Dugong Island and explore the mysterious world of
the Dugongs. Wander amongst an underwater shipwreck whilst admiring the magnificent pair of Dugongs, Pig and Weru. A oncein-a-lifetime opportunity is to dive into the world of Dugongs and feed Pig and Weru in
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the aquarium’s Behind-theScenes Tour, offered twice daily. The Dugong feeds include interaction with Marine Biologists preparing their food. You can even walk the Dugong Island ‘Plank’ to gain exclusive access to the Dugong enclosure and capture an amazing photo with
the larger-than-life marine stars. SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium has interactive activities for the little ones too, including a treasure hunt, daily interactive Dugong talk, an educational craft event and more. For more info visit sydneyaquarium.com.au or call 1-800-199-657.
DINOSAURS RETURN TO SYDNEY Dinosaurs spend spring in Sydney 65 million years after extinction the dinosaurs are returning to inhabit Taronga Zoo. We recommend that you do not miss this incredible exhibition. Taronga Zoo has placed dinosaurs in amongst the natural habitat of the scenic Zoo.You will be able to get up close and personal with life-size and life-like dinosaurs. Meet Styracosaurus and other favourites such as
Tyrannosaurus Rex.Taronga Zoo has an all-new 3D experience making it an exciting way for kids to learn about these amazing creatures.To understand their story is to understand the need to protect today’s species from the same fate. (Opens 31 October 2014 until 1 February 2015). Free with admission to Taronga Zoo. For more info head to taronga.org.au or call 9969 2777.
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SKYDIVE ¦ CLIMB ¦ GALLERIES ¦ MUST SEE ¦ MUSEUMS ¦ THEATRE
What’s new Time to re-live the pop Popism with a creative space revolution as Pop to Popism dedicated to families, an array takes over the of programs and a pop-themed Art Gallery of NSW. café. Part of the Sydney Spanning three decades Stop 13 International Art from the mid 1950s to Series, Pop to Popism is the 1980s, the exhibition HOP exclusive to Sydney. (From ON HOP traces the origins of 1 November to 1 March OFF pop art, its heady high 15).To learn more visit period and its enduring legacy artgallery.nsw.gov.au both in Australia and abroad. The exhibition features over 200 incredible works by artists including Andy Warhol, Roy Lichtenstein, David Hockney, Brett Whiteley and Martin Sharp. Delve into the brash art and radical ideas in Pop to Take a trip down memory lane with Lynley Dodd’s ‘A Retrospective’ exhibition. This magical exhibition is on at the State Library of NSW
and showcases 59 original sketches and drawings from Dodd’s popular children’s books, including the Hairy Maclary series, the Schnitzel Von Krumm series, Slinky Malinki and Scarface Claw. Included in the marvelous exhibition are samples of Dodd’s
early works and rough sketches that will give you an idea of the creative process behind the bestselling books. This exhibition is not just about cats and dogs; it is the story of the artist, her education and rise to becoming a famous story book writer and illustrator. This exhibition is on display at the State Library of NSW, from 1 November 2014 – 15 March 2015. For more info visit sl.nsw.gov.au or call +61 2 9273 1414.
Roy Lichtenstein In the car 1963, ScottishNational Gallery of Modern Art, purchased 1980 © Roy Lichtenstein Foundation. Licensed by Viscopy, Sydney
Sydney goes Pop!
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ANOTHER creative exhibition at the Museum of Sydney this spring is Harry Seidler: Painting Toward Architecture. A fascinating exhibition exploring Australia’s best-known architect Harry Seidler’s acclaimed projects and the long-lasting collaborations he forged with leading architects, artists and engineers. Marvel at Seidler’s creative achievements and unearth the personal journey of this fascinating visionary through times of war and peace. Curated by Vladimir Belogolovsky of Intercontinental Curatorial Project and Dr Caroline Butler Bowdon of Sydney Living
Hop in the driver’s seat and experience Going Places, a new family exhibition at the Australian National Maritime Museum. Going Places explores the technology that gets us around every day. The exhibition gives insight into things like gravity, currents, waves and friction and shows how transport has influenced our daily lives. Buckle up as you become the driver at this
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Museums.This highly interesting exhibition is supported by the Seidler Architectural Foundation. (from 1 November to 8 March 2015).To learn more visit sydneylivingmuseums.com.au or call 8239 2288.
hands-on exhibition, which allows families the opportunity to experience and react to a number of scenarios. Drive, load, control and design all forms of transport. Check out new technology and get a glimpse of where our future is headed. Exhibition is open until 22 February 2015. For more information visit anmm.gov.au/goingplaces or call 9298 3777.
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SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE
SPRING DIARY
Summer at the House. Over the summer, visitors and performance-goers will be treated to dazzling entertainment for all ages, together with exciting culinary experiences, as the Sydney Opera House precinct is transformed into the ultimate summer playground with a host of children’s activities, as well as a big-kids party atmosphere, with pop-up bars and DJs. Kids at the House is the perfect introduction for kids to a variety of performing arts. Audiences have an opportunity to see artists from around the world, Including: Hans Christian, You Must Be An Angel (8 and 9 November), Move It Mob Style Dance on the (19-21 November), Primary Proms: Little Drummer Boy (26 November to 2nd December) and The Little Drummer Boy – Babies Proms #4 (29 November to 21 December). Music at the House presents a varied program of exciting musical entertainment.The mythical singer-songwriter Rodriguez (21 to 23 October), Pat Metheny acclaimed as one of the world’s great jazz-guitarists and Unity Group (24 October).The Irish-American supergroup, The Gloaming (27 October), Max Ritcher Vivaldi The Four Seasons Recomposed & Infra with Wordless Music Orchestra (23 November), Damon Albarn in his debut Sydney performance Everyday Robots (Parlophone), (15, 16 December) and Violent Femmes 30th Anniversary Album Tour (29 December). World Orchestra Program at the House. The London Symphony Orchestra (LSO) makes its highly anticipated return to Australia’s iconic Sydney Opera House for a three concert series, under the baton of its Principal Conductor, Maestro Valery Gergiev. Programme 1, 2, 3 on 24, 25, 26 November respectively. There is so much going on during Spring and Summer that you need to go to
Hamilton Lund, Destination 1184087-c
sydneyoperahouse.com or call 9250 7777 to get the full diary of events and happenings at our incredible and much loved Sydney Opera House.
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SKYDIVE ¦ CLIMB ¦ GALLERIES ¦ MUST SEE ¦ MUSEUMS ¦ THEATRE
What’s on
AZTEC TREASURES It is not often one has the opportunity to experience the remarkable and dramatic story of the Aztec Empire. The Australian Museum now has over 200 cultural treasures from Mexico’s major museums.This colourful
exhibition showcases stories about Aztec daily life, beliefs, devotion, war and even human sacrifice through archaeological finds, intricate models and multimedia. It also explores their downfall at the hands of the Spanish and their resounding legacy.There is something for visitors of all ages with a children’s trail and even gold bracelets and pendants from sunken Spanish ships! You’re not going to want to miss this family-friendly exhibition on display at the Australian Museum (12 Sept to 1 Feb 2015). For more info head to australianmuseum.net.au or call 9320 6000
SHIPYARD STORIES Mark Merton, supplied by Sydney Harbour Federation Trust.
Photo by Michel Zabe © The Instituto Nacional de Antropologia e Historia (INAH)
Things to see, places to be and exciting things to do in Sydney
Uncover a fascinating living legacy of maritime history in the heart of Sydney Harbour.The Shipyard Stories exhibition presents the story of the Cockatoo Island dockyard and shipbuilding history; a tribute to the hard-working men and women who made Cockatoo
Island a powerhouse of industry for over a century. From photos of dockyard life to tales of mateship from former workers, learn the untold stories of this unique island community. (From 1 September to 31 December). For more info head to cockatooisland.gov. au/shipyardstories
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What’s on
B & C RESERVE SEATS ON MOST CONCERTS Please quote #9078 Conditions apply. Valid to 31.1.15 Tickets from $39* *Booking fees of $7.50–$8.95 may apply. Selected Performances.
The Sydney Symphony Orchestra. Experience a great orchestra playing great music in the world’s most spectacular concert venue, the Sydney Opera House. This spring, star soloists are visiting and performing with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra. In October, one of today’s great violinists, James Ehnes returns and performs Prokofiev’s Violin Concerto No.2, in a concert of Russian romantics, including Tchaikovsky’s popular Symphony No. 5 (9 to 11 Oct). Don’t miss this rare opportunity to hear a trumpet or organ concerto when “the best trumpeter in the galaxy” Håkan Hardenberger appears on stage (22 to 23 Oct) and David Drury plays on the world’s largest known mechanical action organ at the Sydney Opera House (29 Oct to 1 Nov).The excitement continues If you’re in Sydney visiting the beautiful Royal Botanic Garden you can book an interesting and educational Aboriginal Heritage Tour, running Fridays at 10am. An Aboriginal guide will lead you on a 90-minute sensory tour of the gardens. During the tour you’ll be amazed by the rich history, culture and food sources of Aboriginal people. This spring make the most of Artisans in the Gardens from 11 to 19 October 2014. See the unique works by some of our best contemporary and
in November with Brahms’s famous Symphony No.1 (19 to 22 Nov) and his first piano concerto; a mighty classic with star pianist Yefim Bronfman (27 Nov to 1 Dec).The year ends with Sibelius’ brilliant violin concerto performed by Frank Peter Zimmermann and Elgar’s Enigma Variations, an audience favourite everywhere! (3 to 6 Dec). More info go to sydneysymphony.com
traditional artisans, including jewellery, ceramics, glass, textiles and sculpture; the exhibition celebrates the beauty and complexity of nature. To find out more call 9231 8111 or visit rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au
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Darling Harbour, Sydney Opening times: 9:30am – 8pm (last entry 7pm – Opening times may vary due to private events please check our website for our daily opening times before you visit)
www.madametussauds.com/sydney
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What’s on Notorious Criminals: A Snapshot of Sinister Sydney Sydney’s first European settlers were criminals and the city had a reputation for breeding some of the world’s hardest, most malevolent and cunning crooks. Sydney has seen them all.The Justice & Police Museum’s latest exhibition tells the story of nine of the city’s most notorious criminals. Stretching from the 1860s -1990s featuring gangsters like sly-grogger Kate Leigh to name a few. See previously unpublished crime scene images of a coldblooded murder committed by gangster John ‘Chow’ Hayes along with death masks, cut-
Photograph © Nicholas Watt.tif
Hyde Park Barracks was once the nerve centre for the world’s largest system of convict transportation. Over 50,000 of the colony’s 80,000 convicts passed through its gates between 1819 and 1848. A fascinating exhibition at the
throat razors and a poison bottle.Visitors can explore the courtrooms and cells where many of the featured criminals spent time. Entry is included with the Sydney Museums Pass. For more info refer to page 52. Open from 18th October. sydneylivingmuseums.com.au
or call 9252 1144 Hyde Park Barracks Museum tells the story of their crimes, the punishments they endured and the contributions many of them went on to make in Australian society. The magnificent World Heritage listed building is the only convict barracks from Governor Macquarie’s era to have survived. You’ll find the barracks at the southern end of Macquarie Street, near Hyde Park. It’s open from 10am each day. Entry is included with the Sydney Museums Pass (see page 52). Go to sydneylivingmuseums.com.au or call 8239 2211
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Discover over 200 awe-inspiring objects
Exhibition on now australianmuseum.net.au
Aztecs was developed by the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa in partnership with Mexico’s National Council for Culture and the Arts and the National Institute of Anthropology and History (CONACULTA-INAH), along with the Australian Museum and Museum Victoria. Detail of an Aztec Eagle Warrior. Photo by Michel Zabe © The Instituto Nacional de Antropologia e Historia (INAH)
The Stars shine at Moonlight Cinema in Centennial Parklands The Stars are shining bright at Moonlight Cinema in Centennial Park this Spring. Centennial Parklands is the ‘lungs’ of Sydney enjoyed by all Sydney-siders who love the outdoors. There is no better way to appreciate a good movie than under the stars in beautiful Centennial Park.
Take yourself to Moonlight Cinema that shows advance previews, contemporary, cult and classic movies on the lawns of the Belvedere Amphitheatre in Centennial Park. Moonlight Cinema is on from December to March 2015. For bookings and session times head to moonlight.com.au/sydney
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SKYDIVE ¦ CLIMB ¦ GALLERIES ¦ MUST SEE ¦ MUSEUMS ¦ THEATRE
What’s on
2 for the price of 1 VALID TO 31. 1.15
BE INSPIRED by a trip to the Sydney Jewish Museum is sure to stimulate the mind. You can currently see the awardwinning international exhibition Transcending Tradition: Jewish Mathematicians in German-Speaking Academic Culture. You will have the opportunity to learn about over 150 years of Jewish mathematicians in German-speaking academic culture before 1933. CORROBOREE SYDNEY 2014 is an invitation to celebrate Indigenous arts and culture. Sydney’s largest indigenous event, showcases the very best in contemporary and traditional Indigenous art, craft and culture including over 100 artists performing over ten days. Indigenous artists, writers, dancers and musicians will showcase their talents and share their stories. The largest Indigenous event on Sydney’s arts and culture calendar is a collaboration between
Unmask the stories of young researchers who helped shape modern mathematics and physics, scholars who went beyond mathematics and made their mark in literature or philosophy as well as the story of the most important female mathematician of the 20th century. Running until 16 November 2014. More info at sydneyjewishmuseum.com.au
or call 9360 7999.
Sydney’s best arts, music and culture venues, including The Opera House, Bangarra Dance Theatre, the MCA and The Australian Museum. (from 20 to 30 November) more info at corroboreesydney.com.au
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SYDNEY ONLY!
ART GALLERY OF NEW SOUTH WALES 1 NOV 2014 – 1 MAR 2015 INCLUDING WARHOL, LICHTENSTEIN, HOCKNEY, KOONS, SHERMAN, WHITELEY, SHARP, RUSCHA
Strategic partners
Principal partner
Roy Lichtenstein In the car 1963 (detail) Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art, purchased 1980 © Roy Lichtenstein Foundation. Licensed by Viscopy, Sydney. Photo: Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art
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SKYDIVE ¦ CLIMB ¦ GALLERIES ¦ MUST SEE ¦ MUSEUMS ¦ THEATRE
This month Children of the Sun Sydney Theatre Company performs, Children of the Sun, a sparkling comedy full of bittersweet romance and laughter, featuring Toby Truslove (Channel 7’s Slideshow), Justine Clarke (ABC’s The Time of our Lives), Jacqueline McKenzie and Helen Thomson. In a rambling mansion, we follow the goingson of an amateur scientist and his family busy in the pursuit of love, money and a brighter future. As a revolution brews on their doorstep, will they open their eyes in time? See the
performance from 8 September to 25 October 2014 at the Drama Theatre. For bookings call 02 9250 1777 or go to sydneytheatre.com.au
Spring Events onboard with Captain Cook Cruises Join all the action of the race that stops the nation aboard Sydney’s thoroughbred cruise ship Sydney
2000. The Melbourne Cup Lunch (4 Nov) will get you to the winners circle in style enjoying premium dining, live viewing race lounge, great prizes to be won -sweeps, best dressed and lucky door prizes. Boxing Day is the day Sydney comes out to play. All the action is centred around the start of the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race (26 Dec), one of the world’s greatest sailing events. Pack a picnic and join the fun on a Spectator craft. And
New Years Eve (31 Dec) is spectacular from the water. Cruise inside the exclusion zone for dinner and fireworks or pack a picnic and jump on a rocket ferry. More info head to captaincook.com.au
Open now
100% Personal Skywalk Nothing is like a SKYWALK. The highest point in Sydney is the top of the Westfield tower. An all new intimate experience is the 100% personal SKYWALK experience, where you can get an experienced guide and the SKYWALK all to yourselves. What a romantic setting.
Sydney Tower sydneytowereye.com.au
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Until 2 November 2014
European Prints and Drawings 1500-1900 This is a rare chance to see works on paper by some of Europe’s greatest artists, which are usually kept in storage due to their sensitivity to light. Art Gallery of NSW artgallery.nsw.gov.au
1 Oct, 24 Oct, 21 Nov & 12 Dec 2014
Spotlight Prowl Join a Parklands Ranger for a fascinating spotlight walk when the sun goes down and see a variety of Australian nocturnal creatures, from Brushtail possums, Microbats and Tawny frogmouths to one of Sydney’s largest colonies of Grey headed flying fox.
Centennial Parklands spotlightprowl.eventbrite.com.au
Tuesdays and Thursdays Until 17 Dec 2014
Dandy Lions Garden adventures for preschoolers and their carers; with nature-based craft, gardening activities, walks, stories and play. Royal Botanic Garden Sydney rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au
4, 11, 18 Dec 2014 & 8, 15, 22, 29 Jan 2015
Tequila Sunsets The Australian Museum is staying up late in December and January to give visitors the chance to enjoy it’s Aztecs exhibition after hours. Enjoy Mexican inspired drinks and a Latin DJ. Check Dates at Australian Museum australianmuseum.net.au
Until 1 February 2015
Beautiful Whale: Life-size Photographs by Bryant Austin. Come eye-to-eye with whales at sea in this remarkable photographic exhibition at the Australian National Maritime Museum.
Australian National Maritime Museum anmm.gov.au
Until 22 February 2015
Sydney Transitions: 1914 / 2014 Explore changes in society through digital montages of Sydney landmarks which combine century-old images with photographs of the same location today taken. State Library of NSW sl.nsw.gov.au
October 2014
Good Food Month Australia’s largest food festival, The Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Month presented by Citi invites food lovers in Sydney and regional New South Wales to celebrate Australia’s extraordinary ... goodfoodmonth.com
11 -19 October 2014
Artisans in the Gardens Exhibitions Held in the iconic Lion Gate Lodge in the Royal Botanic Garden, Sydney, the exhibition showcases the work of some of Australia’s leading contemporary artists and craftspeople, All the beautiful works are for sale. Royal Botanic Garden Sydney rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au
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23 October - 9 November 2014
Sculpture by the Sea Sculpture by the Sea returns to the Bondi Beach to Tamarama Beach coastal walk. See the spectacular Bondi to Tamarama coastal walk transformed into a 2km long temporary sculpture park featuring over 100 sculptures by artists from Australia and across the world. sculpturebythesea.com
25 - 26 October 2014
Slow Food – International Year of the Family Farmer Celebrate the International Year of the Family Farmer with talks by local farmers, delicious slow-food tastings, talks and demonstrations by Slow Food Sydney, and a walk and talk in the Cadi Garden to learn about local bush-tucker. Royal Botanic Garden Sydney slowfoodsydney.com
29 October – 1 November 2014
Mahler 7: Night Music Dramatic and thrilling! Experience a concert with sound explosions, when David Drury hits the keys of the world’s largest mechanical action organ and the Orchestra performs Mahler 7, which glides through nocturnal worlds from dusk till dawn. For bookings, phone 8215 4600 and quote #9078 for What’s On in Sydney special pricing.
Sydney Symphony Orchestra at the Sydney Opera House sydneysymphony.com
1 November – 18 January 2015
Remember Me: the Lost Diggers of Vignacourt The exhibition features a collection of 74 hand printed photographic portraits taken of WWI soldiers in Vignacourt, the small French village which became the recreation and recovery point for troops moving toand-from the battlefields of the Somme.These portraits are from a collection of 800 negatives donated to the Australian War Memorial. State Library of NSW sl.nsw.gov.au
1 November – 10 May 2015
Shopkeepers of Newtown From 2009-2013 photographer Nic Bezzina documented the independent shopkeepers of Newtown, a suburb well known for its diversity and alternative culture.The body of work is a photographic documentary of some of the most iconic characters of Newtown. State Library of NSW sl.nsw.gov.au
$10 OFF
B & C reserve seats for most concerts* PLEASE QUOTE 9078
Australia’s leading orchestra at the Sydney Opera House
Call 8215 4600 (9am–5pm Mon–Fri) sydneysymphony.com *Conditions apply. Offer ends 31/12/2014
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1 November - 15 March 2015
Sydney International Art Series Bringing the world’s most outstanding exhibitions to Australia, exclusively to Sydney, every summer.The Sydney International Art Series sees the city’s two preeminent art museums – the Art Gallery of NSW and the MCA – join forces to present this exciting annual art series in partnership with Destination NSW. visit artgallery.nsw.gov.au or mca.com.au
3 November - 20 December 2014
Switzerland Theatre at its best. Finely plotted, suspenseful and surprising, Switzerland will have you on the edge of your seat. Sydney Opera House sydneytheatre.com.au
11 November – 20 December 2014
Cyrano de Bergerac Richard Roxburgh plays, with customary panache, the title role, and is joined by Eryn Jean Norvill and Ryan Corr.This wonderful tale proves once and for all that the brain is our greatest erogenous zone. Sydney Theatre sydneytheatre.com.au
19 – 22 November 2014
Vänskä conducts Brahms Conductor Osmo Vänskä has worked with the world’s best orchestras. From the Berlin and New York Philharmonic to the London Symphony Orchestra, he now comes to Australia to present a stunning concert featuring Brahms mighty Symphony No.1. For bookings, phone 8215 4600 and quote #9078 for What’s On in Sydney special pricing.
Sydney Symphony Orchestra at the Sydney Opera House sydneysymphony.com 20 - 30 November 2014
Corroboree Sydney Discover Australia’s rich cultural heritage, with leading Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists, writers, dancers and musicians as they showcase their creativity and share their stories. corroboreesydney.com.au 21 November - 26 January 2015
Dobell Australian Drawing Bienniale Continuing the legacy of the Dobell Prize for Drawing (1993–2012), this is the first in a series of exhibitions on Australian drawing, supported by the Sir William Dobell Art Foundation. Art Gallery of NSW artgallery.nsw.gov.au
SEE COMPELLING PERFORMANCES ALL YEAR ROUND AT SYDNEY THEATRE COMPANY. sydneytheatre.com.au
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Two fantastic tours for the price of one! Hop on and hop off as many times as you like over 24 hours, and you can change between the Sydney and Bondi tours. Adult $40 • Child $25 • Senior $30 • Student $35 • Family $110
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Stops Including
Harbour Bridge The Rocks Opera House
Kings Cross
Darling Harbour Bondi Beach
Buy Tickets: On the Bus • Visitor Centres • Hotels • Travel Agents • Online
Professional commentary is available in English or, on select city buses, in 7 languages plus a children’s channel
9567 8400 www.sydneyexplorer.com.au Information
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An exploration of Jewish life in Australia Meet Holocaust Survivors and listen to their story of survival Open Closed
Sunday - Thursday 10am - 4pm Friday 10am - 2pm Saturdays and Jewish Holy Days
148 Darlinghurst Road, Darlinghurst
www.sydneyjewishmuseum.com.au
27 November – 1 December 2014
Brahms & Mahler: Symphonic Firsts A must for all piano lovers – Brahms’s Piano Concerto No.1 performed by Yefim Bronfman, a pianist creating a “sound-world of exquisite delicacy built on the twin pillars of his imagination and technical control”. Bookings, phone 8215 4600 and quote #9078 for What’s On in Sydney special pricing.
Sydney Symphony Orchestra at the Sydney Opera House sydneysymphony.com
9 December – 27 April 2015
Voyage to the Deep Voyage to the Deep is about undersea exploration and adventure – of the kind immortalised by Jules Verne’s novel 20,000 Leagues Under the Seas and celebrated in popular culture from Jacques Cousteau to the Octonauts.
Australian National Maritime Museum anmm.gov.au
13 December 2014 – May 2015
Towers Of Tomorrow with LEGO® Bricks Featuring astonishing skyscrapers from across Asia and Australia constructed from LEGO® bricks including our very own Sydney Tower Eye. In total, more than half a million LEGO bricks (well over 1.5 tons of LEGO!) are used in the towers, some of which tower over 3 metres in height! Kids can even build their own towers. Museum of Sydney sydneylivingmuseums.com.au 20 December 2014
Carols in the Domain Woolworths Carols in the Domain is Australia’s largest free Christmas concert. 2014 will be the 32nd year of this iconic Christmas celebration. carolsinthedomain.com
2014-15 Summer Season
Tandem Night Skydives Are Back Night Jumps at Skydive the Beach and Beyond SydneyWollongong are back by popular demand. Experience the ‘dark’ side of skydiving as you freefall through the star-filled skies over the inky black seas of Wollongong perfect for the next big thrill.
Skydive the Beach and Beyond skydive.com.au
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The Largest IMAX screen in the world right here in Sydney
26th December 2014
Rolex Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race
Boxing Day is the day Sydney comes out to play. All the action is centred around the start of the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race, one of the world’s greatest sailing events. rolexsydneyhobart.com 31 December 2014
The Opera Gala on New Year’s Eve
Step into the the Sydney Opera House’s magnificent Concert Hall to watch the Opera Gala concert of popular arias by Verdi, Puccini, and Rossini, with fireworks and champagne at interval. Sydney Opera House opera.org.au January 7 to 21 February 2015
St George Cinerent OpenAir Cinema 2014
Each evening at sunset a massive three-storey-high screen rises from the harbour, against a backdrop that spans the Harbour Bridge, Opera House, and the city skyline. Meet friends early at the harbourside bar and restaurant before settling in to grandstand seating at nightfall for an unrivalled cinema experience, complete with surround sound. stgeorgeopenair.com.au
8 - 26 January 2015
Sydney Festival
Every January, Sydney Festival enlivens and transforms Sydney with a bold cultural celebration based on the highest quality art and big ideas. Each year, the Festival is comprised of around 400 performances of 140 events performed by more than 1000 artists in more than 30 venues. sydneyfestival.org.au
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20% OFF GENERAL
IMAX Sydney is the largest IMAX screen in the world with crystal clear images, ten times Not valid with any larger than the traditional cinema format.The other offer. Maximum 2 single tickets IMAX film experience draws you in with pictures per voucher. Offer expires 31.1.15 so real you want to touch them, so powerful you can feel them. Visit the future with Interstellar, opening 6 November. Shot with IMAX 15/70 cameras and set In the future, governments and economies across the globe have collapsed, food is scarce, NASA is no more and the 20th Century is to blame. A mysterious rip in space-time opens and it’s up to whatever is left of NASA to explore and provide hope for mankind. For the history buffs D-Day 3D: Normandy 1944 will be screening throughout spring.This large format documentary produced entirely in 3D provides a new look at this moment in history. A unique style is used to both teach and remind audiences of the largest ever allied operation and its lasting effect on the world. Head to imax.com.au or call 9281 3300 for more information. ADMISSION
Opening 28 November The international hit musical Dirty Dancing returns to Sydney a decade after it’s first performance in 1994. Featuring numerous hit songs including Hungry Eyes, Hey! Baby, Do You Love Me? and the iconic (I’ve Had) The Time Of My Life, Dirty Dancing has become one of the most popular musical productions of all time. It’s the
summer of 1963, and 17 year old Frances “Baby” Houseman is about to learn some major lessons in life as well as a thing or two about dancing. A show that is not to be missed. Opening at The Sydney Lyric Theatre from 28 November this year. More info at ticketmaster. com.au or call 1300 795 267
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Skydive WITHOUT jumping from a plane! Australia’s first indoor skydiving facility has proven to be a huge success. Indoor skydiving is a safe and fun adventure activity that anyone from ages 3 to 103 can enjoy. The iFLY Downunder indoor skydiving facility is a state of the art centre that delivers an exhilarating, thrilling and high-energy experience for
the whole family. Experience flying in a 5 metre wide glass flight chamber which is one of the largest and most technically advanced in the world! iFLY Downunder is suitable for people of all skill levels, from first timers to advanced flyers. Find out more at iflydownunder.com.au or call 1300 366 364.
YOUR GARDEN
Relax. Contemplate. Discover. Experience the wonder of Sydney’s beautiful Royal Botanic Garden. The Disney Fairies Trail in the Garden (29 Nov – 31 Jan) • Daily Free guided walks (no walks Christmas & Boxing Day) • Aboriginal Heritage Tours — Fridays 10am. Daily during Corroboree Sydney festival 24 – 28 Nov. Bookings essential, phone 9231 8134. For more information 9231 8111 or visit rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au
Love
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SYDNEY
Love
THE STAR From award-winning restaurants and bars to world-class gaming and five-star accommodation, there are endless ways to experience the best of Sydney at The Star. There's a lot to love. F O R M O R E I N F O V I S I T S TA R .C O M . A U
80 PYRMONT ST, PYRMONT STAR.COM.AU /TheStar @TheStarSydney The Star practices the responsible service of alcohol. Guest must be aged 18 years or over to enter the casino. Think! About your choices. Call Gambling Help 1800 858 858 www.gamblinghelp.nsw.gov.au
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SKYDIVE ¦ CLIMB ¦ GALLERIES ¦ MUST SEE ¦ MUSEUMS ¦ THEATRE
Get your bearings
SYDNEY IS a sprawling city of more than four million people, spread over a vast coastal basin with Sydney Harbour as its centrepiece. To the north lies another beautiful waterway – Pittwater and the Hawkesbury – and beyond that the scenic Central Coast and the Hunter Valley winegrowing
region. To the west the city is backed by a section of the Great Dividing Range which runs all the way down the east coast of Australia. The part of the range behind Sydney is called the Blue Mountains – now designated by UNESCO as a World Heritage area for its stunning natural beauty. South of the city you’ll find the Southern Highlands, Wollongong and the South Coast – home to some of the most beautiful beaches and coastal towns in Australia. So there’s a lot to see and do around Sydney other than the city itself. Like most world cities Sydney is served by an excellent public transport system, made up of fast electric
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trains, clean air-conditioned buses and a hard-working fleet of harbour and river ferries. The system is reliable and easy to use, and extremely costeffective If you intend to travel on buses, ferries, light rail as well as trains, a MyMulti 1, 2 or 3 could be just the ticket. Just choose your MyMulti zone to get travel by train or bus within that zone. Plus you can get State Transit ferry travel throughout greater Sydney and extending up to the Hunter Valley, out to Katoomba and the Blue Mountains in the west and south to Wollongong and Kiama. It also covers all public transport in and around the city and suburbs, with the exception of the
The Hop on hop off Sydney Harbour Explorer
Like us on Facebook – What did you do in Sydney? facebook.com/WhatsOninSydney
hop-on hop-off tourist buses, a couple of non-government ferries and the station access charges to the Domestic and International airport stations on the AirportLink rail line. For instance, as well as getting in and out of the city you can use it to go to Manly by ferry, to Palm Beach on the bus, to Sydney Olympic Park on the rivercat, to Bondi Beach on the Bondi Bendy, to the Blue Mountains by train and all
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SKYDIVE ¦ CLIMB ¦ GALLERIES ¦ MUST SEE ¦ MUSEUMS ¦ THEATRE
Get your bearings around town on one of the red Metrobus services. There are a number of different Metrobus routes criss-crossing the city – from places like Leichhardt to Maroubra Junction, Chatswood to Bondi Junction or Mosman to Newtown and Sydenham – so wherever you are they’ll have you into town fast. They often link with train stations and are high-frequency, running regularly throughout the city. Please check routes and timetables before making your journey. You can purchase MyMulti tickets at any train station or from Sydney Buses TransitShops at Circular Quay, Carrington Street at Wynyard, in York Street outside the QVB and at Railway Square. They are also available at all Sydney Ferries ticket offices and from most newsagents and post
offices and many convenience stores in the city and suburbs. For more information on MyMulti and the Metrobus network go to 131500.com.au or call the Transport Infoline on 131 500. Once you’re in the city itself the best way to get a feeling for the general layout of the place and all the main points of interest is to start at the very top – the top of Sydney Tower that is. The viewing deck at the top is now known as Sydney Tower Eye. The
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View from Sydney Tower Eye
entrance to the Sydney Tower Eye is on the 5th Level of the Westfield shopping centre on the corner of Pitt, Castlereagh and Market Streets. Once you’ve bought your ticket and checked in you’ll enter the new 4D cinema. This unique film, included in the ticket price, unveils a whole new dimension to Sydney – its spectacular footage transporting you along the beaches, around the harbour and right inside the landmarks and events that are such an integral part of the city. The experience is taken Stop 3 to the 4th dimension by evocative in-theatre HOP ON effects like wind, water HOP OFF and fire bringing the whole scenario to life. Once you’ve seen the film metres above street level. Here you’ll be whisked by a lift up sweeping views of the Sydney to the Observation Deck, 250 metropolis stretch out for
38 ¦ WHATSONINSYDNEY.COM.AU SKYDIVE ¦ CLIMB ¦ GALLERIES ¦ MUST SEE ¦ MUSEUMS ¦ THEATRE
Get your bearings
miles and miles around. And point out all the city’s historic the whole experience is made and geographic landmarks even more interesting since from this high-adrenaline they’ve installed new highvantage point. Then comes powered binoculars and multithe real test. If you’re game lingual touch screens to enough you can venture Stop 3 out on to glass-floored give you an array of facts about what you’re seeing. HOP platforms suspended ON HOP above the city streets OFF But if you’re ready for 268 metres below. It’s like a bit of adventure you walking on air! Sydney can do more than just look out Tower Eye is open every day from inside the observation deck from 10am. Skywalk starts at the Sydney Tower Eye. If every day at the same time. you’re up to the challenge you And they’re both even better actually walk around the outside value these days with one of of the Tower on Skywalk. the new Ultimate Sydney Harnessed to a safety rail and Experience pass combining dressed in a special protective entry to Sydney Tower Eye and suit, you will be taken around Skywalk with a visit to SEA Skywalk’s external walkways LIFE Sydney Aquarium and by expert guides who will WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo and
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10%OFF
ADULT OR CHILD ENTRY NOT VALID WITH ANY OTHER OFFER. PROMO CODE 4098. VALID TO 31.1.15
Madame Tussauds at Darling Harbour and Manly SEA LIFE Sanctuary at Manly. For more info call 1 800 258 693 or go to sydneytowereye.com.au Whatever you decide to do next, the easiest way get to all the city’s main attractions is undoubtedly via Sydney Explorer’s convenient hop-on hop-off bus. These bright red, open-topped double-deckers run on a continuous loop every
15 – 20 minutes all day. You’ll find the route marked in red on the map inside our front cover. The first Sydney tour bus leaves Circular Quay at 8.30am every morning and the last tour finishes around 6.30pm at night during winter. There are 26 stops altogether on the city Explorer route, including the main shopping district, Kings Cross and Woolloomooloo, the Royal Botanic Gardens and the Opera House, Hyde Park and the Australian Museum, the fish markets, half a dozen attractions around Darling Harbour, and of course The Rocks and Circular Quay. The 24 hour ticket is also valid on their sister service, the Bondi and Bays Explorer.
40 ¦ WHATSONINSYDNEY.COM.AU BUY SYDNEY SKYDIVE ¦ CLIMB ¦ GALLERIES ¦ MUST SEE ¦ MUSEUMSMUSEUMS ¦ THEATREPASS AND SAVE
Get your bearings
This bus starts at Central Station from 9.30am daily and heads on out to Bondi beach through Kings Cross and Paddington, returning via some of Sydney’s most exclusive homes in Vaucluse, Rose Bay and Double Bay. You can switch between the City and Bondi services, and hop-on and hop-off as many times as you like throughout the day. The tickets are reasonably priced and offer tremendous value and a great way to get around the city. Full professional commentary is available in English or, on select buses, in 7 languages plus Stop a kids’ channel. You can buy tickets on the bus , HOP ON online or at the Sydney HOP OFF Visitor Centres and selected hotels. For more info call 9567 8400 or go to sydneyexplorer.com.au ONE OF the more popular
50%
ON GENERAL ADMISSION FEES NOT VALID WITH ANY OTHER OFFER. CONDITIONS APPLY.
stops on the hop-on hop-off bus route is the magnificent Hyde Park Barracks Museum at the southern end of Macquarie Street.This elegant Georgian building is part of the earliest group of public buildings still surviving in Australia today and has recently been granted 13 World Heritage listing.The essential focus of the Hyde Park Barracks is convict life.The latest exhibition, Convict Sydney, tells the story of Australia’s earliest convict history and details the valuable contribution many of these men and women made to Australian society.You’ll learn how the transportation system operated, see how the convicts actually lived and discover how they physically built the colony. You can wander the streets of 1820s Sydney on a giant map, try on a set of leg-irons and lie in a convict hammock. Now you can save 50% on entry by using the new Sydney Museums Pass. For more info refer to page 52 or sydneylivingmuseums.com.au
*Terms and conditions: valid at any location, one voucher per person, not available with any other discount or offer, valid on 14,000ft tandem skydives only. WOS14.
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SKYDIVE ¦ CLIMB ¦ GALLERIES ¦ MUST SEE ¦ MUSEUMS ¦ THEATRE
Get your
20% OFF THE BIG TICKET NOT VALID WITH ANY OTHER OFFER.
The Hop on Hop off Museum, OFFER EXPIRES Stop 19 31.1.15 Buses, run by Sydney the National HOP Explorer, will deliver you Film and Sound ON HOP right to the door of the Archives and the Australian OFF Australian National War Memorial. Multimedia Maritime Museum located and interactive challenges will in Darling Harbour. Here you’ll highlight the lived experience find some new and exciting of the Australian Navy as it exhibitions including Voyage to underwent a test of war. For the Deep (from 9 December more information go to to 27 April 15), focusing on anmm.gov.au or call 9298 3777. undersea exploration and adventure.You can also see War at Sea – The Navy in WWI
(12 September 2014 to 3 May 2015). See rare WWI artefacts from the collections of the Australian National Maritime Just one block up the hill from the Justice and Police Museum you’ll find the Museum of Sydney on the corner of Phillip and Bridge Streets. This distinctive modern museum is open daily from 10am – 5pm. The museum sits on the site of Australia’s first Government House. Here you will learn all about Sydney’s first people, the Gadigal, see superb models of the First Fleet ships and be able to peer at the archaeological remains of the first Government House. Fast Forward 200 years and you will learn about the distinctiveness of this great city; its harbour, transport, the people and Sydney’s particular personality via a changing exhibition
program. While you’re there check out the new exhibitions: Dream Home, Small Home opens 23 August to 23 November 2014 and Harry Seidler: Painting toward Architecture which opens 1st November. Remember you can save 50% off admissions when you buy the new Sydney Museums Pass. For more info refer to page 52 or sydneylivingmuseums.com.au
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STATE LIBRARY OF NSW
10% OFF BOOKSHOP
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bearings
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Stop 12 quirky artifacts from the A few blocks up Macquarie Street will Library’s extraordinary HOP ON find you at the State collections. HOP OFF Library of N.S.W Be sure to visit the new which is so much more exhibitions, which include: than a book lover’s dream. Don McCullin: The Impossible You will discover that the Peace. From War Photographs to State Library hosts world-class Landscapes, 1958 to 2011 exhibitions, a modern café, (27 Sept to 26 Oct). Sydney Transitions: 1914 / 2014 (Until 22 February 2015). Shopkeepers of Newtown (20 November to 10 May 2015). Remember Me: the Lost Diggers of Vignacourt (1 November to 18 January 2015). Lynley Dodd: A book shop and a dynamic Retrospective (1 November events program which is open to 15 March 2015). These to the public. The library also fascinating exhibitions are a offers free Wi-Fi and more must see. Go to sl.nsw.gov.au than 2,500 free eBooks to or call 9273 1414. download. There are a number of special events being held around the library including one in the AMAZE Gallery; a permanent gallery where you can experience some of the most iconic, beautiful and
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Get your bearings
A VISIT to the interesting Australian Museum is recommended and the Hop on Hop Off bus will deliver you right to the door. The Museum’s extensive collections cover natural history and anthropology, invertebrate and vertebrate zoology, mineralogy and palaeontology. The museum is home to literally millions and millions of different items – the insect collection alone has
around four million specimens. There’s an eclectic mix of permanent and temporary exhibitions designed to educate and entertain visitors of every persuasion, like the new Dinosaurs exhibit which uses today’s digital-age technology to bring a 230-million year old story to life. There are also fascinating Behind the Scenes Tours which take you to restricted back-of-house
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20% OFF ADULT GENERAL ADMISSION
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THE SYDNEY International Art Series is a signature event on the NSW events calendar. Featuring vibrant exhibitions each year in 2014, the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia features the incredible exhibition Chuck Close: Prints, Process and Collaboration. Stop 13&26 20 November 2014 to 15 HOP March 2015. Chuck Close ON HOP famously describes himself OFF as “ An Artist Looking for trouble…” Visit The Museum of Contemporary Art Australia for areas where scientists are more info mca.com.au conducting research into life on planet Earth – but bookings are essential. The Australian Museum is on the corner of College and William Streets. And don’t forget What’s On readers enjoy a 20% discount on adult general admission tickets. it’s open 9.30am to 5pm daily. More info at australianmuseum. net.au or call 9320 6000.
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Get your bearings
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You can’t visit Sydney without experiencing the Sydney Opera House, the world-famous landmark and the centre for creativity and entertainment in Sydney. You can choose between a range of different tours when you visit the Opera House. One popular tour is The Sydney Opera House Tour, which takes you beneath the famous sails right into the theatres, venues and unprecedented VIP backstage hallways where magic happens. access to the Sydney Opera Follow your guide on a oneHouse and is a once-in a-lifetime hour journey and discover the opportunity to experience the stories behind the creation of real-life dramas behind this this iconic World Heritage site. celebrated performing arts The tour is available in English, centre. Your personal guide French, German, Mandarin, will raise the curtain on what Japanese and Korean. It really goes on beyond Stop 10 operates between 9am the spotlight and reveal HOP and 5pm every day and industry secrets you won’t ON HOP you don’t need to book hear anywhere else. Walk OFF – just turn up to the Box in the footsteps of legends Office. Another great choice is such as Ella Fitzgerald, Pavarotti, the Backstage Tour. This is Mikhail Baryshnikov, Cate the only tour that grants you Blanchett, Vladimir Ashkenazy
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10% OFF WHEN YOU BOOK ONLINE VALID TO 31.1.15
and the Foo Fighters. After your tour, you can re-live the moment by taking home an official photo souvenir or find the perfect gift, quirky one-off piece, or inspiring show memorabilia from the Opera House’s own gift shop. During Spring there are many great shows on at The Opera House. For a full listing see “What’s On at The Opera House” on Page 14. When you’re booking show tickets, the helpful folk at the Sydney Opera House box office will do all they can to find the
perfect show and the best seat for you. For more information visit sydneyoperahouse.com or call 9250 7777.
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Get your bearings Mandarin Climb
BridgeClimb now offers The Mandarin Climb, featuring local Mandarin speaking guides. The climb departs daily at 3pm and offers Chinese visitors a chance to fully participate in one of Australia’s iconic experiences.
ANOTHER THING that’s high on most people’s ‘must do’ lists these days is BridgeClimb – the guided walk up the catwalks, ladders and arches that lead to the very top of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Celebrities like Oprah Winfrey, Nicole Kidman, Justin Timberlake, Cameron Diaz, Robert De Niro, Cate Blanchett and Pierce Brosnan are just a few of the more than 3 million people who have made ‘the climb of
their life’. It’s absolutely safe, incredibly thrilling and uniquely ‘Sydney’. For the past 15 years most climbs have taken around 3½ hours – including pre-climb preparations and de-briefing – but since the opening of the Climb Base and Visitor Centre at the southern end of the Bridge in Cumberland Street in The Rocks, BridgeClimb has been able to offer The Express Climb that takes just over two hours –
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BridgeClimb
perfect if you’re on a tight schedule. Whichever length you choose, all climbs take you to the very top of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, and all are available at dawn (limited departures) during the day, at twilight and at night. But they’re all very popular so early booking is advisable to make sure of getting a time slot that suits your schedule. For bookings phone 8274 7777 or go to bridgeclimb.com
BridgeClimb accepts UnionPay BridgeClimb have made the booking process for Chinese visitors even more simple with www.bridgeclimb.com now accepting UnionPay cards. UnionPay is also accepted over the counter at the BridgeClimb base, café and retail shop.
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SKYDIVE ¦ CLIMB ¦ GALLERIES ¦ MUST SEE ¦ MUSEUMS ¦ THEATRE
Get your bearings Sydney Museums Pass
SYDNEY IS blessed with a rich history that stretches back to the culture and history of the Gadical people, through to the very first days of convict settlement right up to the contemporary life of the modern city. The Sydney Museums Pass can save you 50% on admissions making it easy to experience four of Sydney’s most unique museums including Museum of Sydney, which offers a wonderful overview of Sydney’s history, bridging the two plus centuries between the colony’s first few days and modern Sydney. Hyde Park Barracks Museum is a a World Heritage listed convict site, and the perfect place to experience convict Sydney hands-on. Susannah Place Museum, an untouched
working-class terrace row, which is now a museum that tells the story of its former residents and of The Rocks, which was one of Sydney’s toughest neighbourhoods. And the Justice & Police Museum, Sydney’s home of crime. From bushrangers to razor-gangs, the darker side of our history is evocatively told. Combined, these museums capture the history, people, cultures, places and events that have made contemporary Sydney. It’s never been easier to explore our beautiful city using this all new value-packed pass head to sydneylivingmuseums.com.au
or call 8239 2211. Passes are available at participating museums, The Sydney Visitor Centres in the Rocks and Darling Harbour.
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A SISTER service to the Sydney Explorer – the Bondi and Bays Explorer – runs from Central Railway every day. This tour goes through Kings Cross and Paddington and on to Sydney’s famous Bondi Beach before returning to the city via the posh Eastern suburbs of Vaucluse, Rose Bay and Double Bay. You can hop-on and hop-off the bus at any of the stops along the way, and switch between the Sydney Explorer and the Bondi and Bays Explorer where they intersect in the city – all for one ticket price, the ticket is valid for 24 hours. For more information call 9567 8400.
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YOU CAN also get to Bondi on the Bondi Bendy 333 service. This government bus runs from Circular Quay to Bondi Beach. Tickets must be pre-purchased before boarding but you can use your MyMulti pass on the Bondi Bendy. There are more than 170 ticket outlets in the CBD but the smartest idea if you’re a visitor and wanting to use public transport is to buy a MyMulti ticket, which covers everything except hop-on hopoff tourist buses, the station access fees at the AirportLink train stations plus a couple of non-government ferry services.
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Around the
Sydney and its surrounding areas are full of fun and vibrant places to check out on your travels. Here’s your guide to what’s best on the water.
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harbour SYDNEY IS built around a beautiful natural harbour, with much of the foreshore dedicated as National Park. Easy walking trails abound, and some of the best views of the city can be had from the heights around Vaucluse (on the route of the Bondi Explorer bus) or from Bradley’s Head near Taronga Zoo. But you don’t have to just look at the harbour from the shore, because Sydney is well-served by a wide variety of excellent harbour cruises
and ferry services. Most cruises depart from Circular Quay or from the eastern side of Darling Harbour near the Sydney Aquarium wharf. The choice ranges from short jaunts of about one hour to cruises lasting a whole day or evening, from simple crossharbour ferry-boat rides to luxury excursions on million-dollar yachts. Or the thrill of seeing giant whales up close. We’ve listed a selection of the best we could find on the next few pages. Enjoy!
‘Sydney 2000’ the flagship of Captain Cook Cruises’ fleet glides gracefully past the Sydney Opera House
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Making the most of Sydney Harbour Whether it’s a day trip to Taronga Zoo, an afternoon whale watching, a seafood lunch off Watson’s Bay, or an elegant dinner on the water for two, there is a Captain Cook Cruise for every budget and occasion. Sydney’s largest fleet of cruise boats and rocket ferries offer a choice of more than 20 cruises daily from No.6 Jetty Circular Quay and Pier 26
Darling Harbour. The award winning two-hour Coffee Cruise, featuring personalized commentary and morning or afternoon tea is justifiably world famous. It departs every day at 10am & 2.15pm. Cruise aboard flagships Sydney 2000 and John Cadman 2 for breakfast, lunch, high tea or dinner. High Tea is a favorite with the girls while the boys just love breakfast ‘with the
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20% OFF
Valid on Breakfast; High Tea; Buffet, Top Deck & Long Lunch; Sunset, Captains & Gold Dinner; Coffee; Highlights; Hop On Hop Off; Cocktail; and Whale Watching Cruises Not valid with attraction entry or special events. Promo Code L3EPQ4A
lot’. A lunch cruise is the best way to combine million dollar harbour views with spectacular dining. For the starry-eyed romantics cocktails, sunset or evening dinner cruises are hard to beat. Four decks, five dining rooms and a range of menu and entertainment options for every event and budget. For bookings phone 9206 1111 or visit captaincook.com.au Why not take a spin around the harbour on Captain Cook Cruises’ new red rocket Hop On Hop Off Harbour
Explorer service! You can’t miss these shiny new rockets as they zoom between Circular Quay, Taronga Zoo, Watson’s Bay, Fort Denison, Shark Island, Luna Park, Manly and Darling Harbour. The rockets leave every 45 minutes from Jetty 6, Circular Quay and Pier 26, Darling Harbour. Twenty-four hour tickets are available from $40-$46 for adults with add-on attraction entry tickets from as little as $11 per person. Visit captaincook.com.au
20% OFF Valid on 24 Hour Pass Not valid with attraction entry or special events. Promo Code L3EPQ4A
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Visit Taronga Zoo ‘The Zoo with a view’ Situated right on the shores of Sydney Harbour is Taronga Zoo. Its beautifully manicured grounds offer breathtaking harbour panoramas as well as the largest collection of native and exotic animals in Sydney with over 4000 types of Australian and exotic wildlife, including
a growing family of man’s closest relative, the chimpanzee. You’ll see koalas, kangaroos, platypus, echidnas and a seal show, plus an amazing aerial free-flight bird show where the birds swoop way out over the famous Sydney Harbour and find their way back. Taronga Zoo is also very
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proud of Asian elephants, another highly endangered species. These can be seen playing in their special paddock. You won’t be able to miss the beautiful giraffes who have the best views in Sydney. You can enjoy 20 keeper talks and shows Daily or for a closer encounter, choose from the Nura Diya Aboriginal discovery tour or the behind-the-scenes Taronga Wild Australia Experience and get up close and personal. This spring the Dinosaurs are coming back. You will not want to miss this unforgettable experience where you will get close to life-size and life-like dinosaurs around the zoo. New to the Zoo (opening late November) is Wild Ropes, Sydney’s ultimate aerial adventure! Get set to challenge yourself on the exciting new treetop challenge course. Experience nature from a new perspective and test your limits against the breath-taking backdrop of Sydney Harbour. Taronga Zoo is open from
9.30am daily and these days you can even stay overnight on the Zoo’s very popular ‘Roar and Snore’ program. Download the free audio tour app for more information on our animals. Call 9969 2777 or visit Taronga.org.au
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Thar she blows! SEE WHALES up close in their natural environment. Sydney boasts the longest whale watching season of any city in the world. Whales pass Sydney from mid May through to mid-December every year anywhere from 1/2 km to 15 km off the coast. On many occasions last year Sydneysider even had whales enter the harbour and stay from a couple of hours to a couple of days. Sydney has become a mecca for whale watching. With trips departing from the CBD and taking only 20 minutes to be in the prime location for watching whales no wonder so many people are taking advantage of the magnificent wildlife spectacle on Sydney’s door step. Boats departing from the city cater for all age groups from the
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VALID TO adventurous 31.1.15 speed seekers to the comfortable stable purpose built whale watching boat. Everyone can enjoy the experience in their chosen style. Trips depart daily from Darling Harbour and Circular Quay and all have experienced guides and commentators onboard to get you to the whales quickly and safely. Whale Watching Sydney has just completed a 4 year study with Macquarie University researching the most sustainable methods of whale watching along the Australian eastern sea board. You will be in capable hands as the masters and crew fully understand the best procedures for watching whales to ensure the minimum impact on
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the whales while delivering the maximum experience for the passengers. Take up this opportunity to watch the whales in their natural environment. The crew is very experienced and they find the whales 99% of the time, although they have no input over the types of activities each trip will
witness. This is up to the whales and how they are feeling on the day. Thousands of happy customers have enjoyed the experience, amazed by the abundance of wild life so close to a city center including dolphins, seals, albatross and other sea birds. Call 9583 1199 or visit whalewatchingsydney.net
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64 ¦ WHATSONINSYDNEY.COM.AU Manly Fast Ferries has a brand spanking new fleet with all the latest comforts.They’ll get you to Manly in 15 minutes from the city.This is the boat to look for.
THESE DAYS you’re able to get to Manly by fast ferry from either Darling Harbour or Circular Quay. Catch the Manly Fast Ferry. It’s a quick, comfortable journey in these modern air-conditioned vessels – in fact the whole trip takes less
than 45 minutes from Darling Harbour and about 15 minutes from Circular Quay. Light refreshments, tea and coffee are available on board and there’s a licensed bar. For full details and timetables call 9583 1199 or go to manlyfastferry.com.au
Dining on Sydney Harbour
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The ride of your life 20% OFF VALID TO 31.1.15
Jet Boating is a great way to enjoy beautiful Sydney Harbour, see the sites and have loads of fun! Sit back and hang on tight as the Harbour Jet throttle opens and releases 500 litres of water per second from the jet, unleashing the full power at 75km/h. An exciting mix of 270-degree spins, wild fishtails and incredible power brake stops makes this experience wet, wild and exciting. Race under the famous Harbour Bridge, past
IF YOU DO nothing else while you’re in Sydney you must dine at least once on Sydney Harbour. Captain Cook Cruises’ flagship, MV Sydney 2000, is the most prestigious vessel on the harbour and is synonymous with luxury dining afloat. The 5pm Sunset Dinner is perfect
Sydney’s popular icons including the Sydney Opera House, Luna Park, Fort Denison and more! The atmosphere is awesome and the Harbour Jet boat is fitted with awesome stereo systems, providing a continual mix of music to keep you rockin! Lockers are available during the ride and wet weather ponchos are provided but be prepared as you might get wet. For more info go to harbourjet.com or call 1300 887 373.
for pre-theatre dining while at 7pm you can choose between the Captains Dinner featuring live entertainment or the Gold Dinner – truly one of Sydney’s most memorable gastronomic experiences. For bookings phone 9206 1111 or visit captaincook.com.au
66 ¦ WHATSONINSYDNEY.COM.AU GIFTS ¦ JEWELLERY ¦ FASHION ¦ BARGAINS ¦ BEAUTY ¦ LUXURY
Take a stroll through the historic Queen Victoria Building. Immersed in the culture of Sydney, the QVB delivers old world tradition with a stylish edge that makes the shopping experience unforgettable. One of Sydney’s most valued heritage landmarks, the QVB is renowned for its mix of iconic local and international brands. From delightful cafes to curious collectables and unique gifts for little ones, discover the unrivalled splendor of this landmark building that is now and forever in style. Love to shop? You’ve come to the right place! Sydney is thriving with department stores, beautiful boutiques, home grown fashion, bustling markets and luxe labels! Take a stroll through the historic Queen Victoria Building then head to the famous Pitt Street pedestrian mall which will lead you to the Westfield Shopping Centre and Strand Arcade. It’s worth the scenic walk across Darling Harbour to the Harbourside centre. Inner-city boutique shopping precincts abound and include stylish Surry Hills, Paddington, Woollahra,
Darlinghurst and Balmain. In the Eastern suburbs a visit to Double Bay is essential, and a wander around Bondi or Manly is bound to turn up some great shopping experiences. Sydney has great bargain shopping as well. For fantastic designer labels at up to 70 per cent off regular retail prices, make your way over to DFO (Direct Factory Outlet) located in Homebush or Birkenhead Point Outlet Centre in Drummoyne. Markets abound in Sydney. We recommend you stop in at Paddy’s Markets, one of Sydney’s major suppliers to tourists with souvenirs and Australiana. Browse Sydney’s many outdoor markets any time of the year. Paddington Market, held every Saturday, is one of Sydney’s most popular markets. Other great markets include Balmain, Rozelle, Surry Hills, Kirribilli and The Rocks.To find out more about Sydney’s markets head to marketcentral.com.au
* Image of Queen Victoria Building interior
Shopping & Dining Sydney
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Australian quality Opals are a great Aussie souvenir While you’re in Sydney we recommend you stop in at The Australian Opal Cutters, where you’ll find amazing opal pieces made from 100% Australian opals. The Australian Opal Cutters have over 30,000 gorgeous pieces including opals set into jewellery as rings, pendants, earrings and thousands of loose opals with every piece polished and set to perfection! When it comes to opal cutting, these guys know their stuff! Australian Opal Cutters buy directly from the mines and are able to pass the savings on to you. All the fine jewellery comes with a certificate of authenticity providing shoppers with Stop 4 100% confidence in the quality and value of their purchase.
HOP ON HOP OFF
The Australian Opal Cutters also offer a unique opal cutting experience where you can explore the different stages of the opal cutting process right in front of your eyes! At the end of the tour you will be given a gift to remember the experience shared with Australian Opal Cutters. For further info phone 9261 2442 or australianopalcutters.com.au
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DARLING HARBOUR ¦ THE ROCKS ¦ MANLY ¦ Bondi ¦ Eastern
Must see MORE THAN 16 million visitors come to Darling Harbour every year to see the beautifully landscaped parks, enjoy its many unique attractions and eat at the harbourside cafes and restaurants. Darling Harbour is an easy walk from the city or a short ride on the Monorail (see route in blue
on map inside front cover). Alternatively you can get there by water taxi or ferry from Circular Quay, light rail from Central Railway or via the red hop-on hop-off Sydney Explorer bus from anywhere around the city. Darling Harbour is home to the mind-blowing IMAX Theatre, which boasts the
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astern Suburbs ¦ SYDNEY’S WEST ¦ CENTRAL COAST & HUNTER
Sydney and its surrounding areas are full of fun and vibrant places to go and check out on your travels. Here’s your guide to what’s hot, what’s on and where to find it.
world’s largest cinema screen, and to a host of other visitor attractions including the SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, the Powerhouse Museum, Wild life Sydney Zoo, the Chinese Garden and the National Maritime Museum. For up-tothe-minute information call at the Sydney Visitor Centre at Darling Harbour, between
the IMAX Theatre and the playground, or call them on 9240 8788. The first port of call on most people’s visit to Darling Harbour is usually SEALIFE Sydney Aquarium. Nowhere else will you find a bigger display of Australian marine life – including one of the largest collections of sharks anywhere in the world.
Darling Harbour
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Must see
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WHILE YOU are down at Darling Harbour you simply must check out the amazing IMAX Theatre. IMAX’s crystal clear images, ten times larger than the traditional cinema format, will blow your
All aboard the HMB Endeavour!
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mind with pictures so real you want to touch them, effects so powerful you can actually feel them. There are now IMAX theatres scattered around the globe, but the one at Sydney’s Darling Harbour has the biggest screen in the world — it’s more than eight storeys high! There’s a wide variety of films showing every day, and What’s On in Sydney readers save 20% off admission with this voucher. For session times call 9281 3300.
THE AUSTRALIAN-built replica of James Cook’s HMB Endeavour is owned and managed by the Australian National Maritime Museum, where it is open
Darling Harbour
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ONE OF our favourite spots in Darling Harbour is the Australian National Maritime Museum. The Museum houses one of the largest fleets of any museum in the world. You can clamber over the submarine Onslow and the destroyer Vampire, see Spirit of Australia – Ken Warby’s boat that still holds the world water-speed record – and climb
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20% OFF THE BIG TICKET
aboard the NOT VALID WITH ANY OTHER OFFER. superb replica OFFER EXPIRES 31.1.15 of Captain Cook’s ship Endeavour when she’s in port. There’s an interesting program of special exhibitions, entry to which is usually included in museum entry. And you’ll save 20% with the special offer on this page. The Maritime Museum is open from 9.30am to 5pm daily.
to the public when in port. The ship is one of the world’s most accurate maritime reproductions. It was built and launched in Fremantle, Western Australia on the 9th December 1993. When you come on board Endeavour you may wonder whether James Cook Stop 19 Australian waters and and his crew have invites paying voyage HOP just stepped ashore crew on board to ON HOP somewhere on their experience 18th OFF voyage, so accurate is century sailing. It’s the historical representation a great way to meet likeof shipboard life during the minded adventurers from 18th century. The table is set, Australia and all over the clothes are hung and the cat world, and take in the beauty is slumbering. of the high seas. For more The HMB Endeavour info go to anmm.gov.au replica voyages regularly in
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Must see
10%OFF
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The tunnels of SEA LIFE and the popular Behind-theSydney Aquarium offer a Scenes Tour offerings, you’ll fascinating oasis right in the heart explore and learn more about of Darling Harbour. Exploring what it takes to care for the 14 themed zones featuring over animals that create an amazing 13,000 amazing marine underwater world. creatures spanning 700 species, A visit to SEA LIFE Sydney you will be amazed by the range Aquarium is even better value of animals, from the majestic with a Sydney Attractions Pass – creatures in Shark Valley offering discounted entry Stop 22 to up to four other popular to the playful penguins that inhabit South Coast attractions – WILD LIFE HOP Shipwreck. Especially worth ON Sydney Zoo, Madame HOP OFF a look at is the unique pair Tussauds Sydney, Sydney of platypus on display! In Tower Eye and Manly SEA addition to the attraction’s fun LIFE Sanctuary. Open 9:30am to talks and animal feeds, SEA LIFE 7pm (last entry at 6pm). For more Sydney Aquarium offers a info phone 1-800-199-657 or visit wide variety of encounters that sydneyaquarium.com.au allows you the chance to take your aquatic experience to the next level.With the launch of the new Shark Reef Snorkel, you’ll get the opportunity to experience the Great Barrier Reef without leaving the city.This unique 1½ hour adventure requires no previous diving experience and will fascinate both adults and children alike! And with the aquarium’s Marine Biologist for the Day program
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Take a walk on the wild side with WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo this Spring.Take a look at iconic Aussie habitats and encounter some of the most loved and feared animals that call Australia home. Come faceto-face with Rex, one of the world’s largest crocodiles, walk amongst kangaroos and wallabies, cuddle up to cute koalas for an unforgettable photograph, bravely hold a python, watch a butterfly hatch from a cocoon and loads more! This unique Zoo also features interactive displays,
inspiring and entertaining daily shows, captivating daily feeding sessions and enhanced walk-through habitats. WILD LIFE Sydney ZOO is jam packed with activities, featuring over 25 keeper talks and animal encounters, WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo is the place to visit these school holidays for people looking to get up close to Australia’s most loved and feared animals. Open from 9:30am, for more information visit WILD-LIFE.com.au or call 1-800-206-158.
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Must see
The experience at WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo will last around two hours and you’ll find heaps inside! They have an extensive schedule of feeds, talks and shows taking place every day, meaning there’s always something happening, no matter when you visit. WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo is right next door to the SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium and Madame Tussauds Sydney and is open from 9am every day (last entry 5pm). And you can SAVE if you buy a multi ticket to the other attractions from WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo. For more information phone 1-800-206-158 or visit WILD-LIFE.com.au
Snorkel with Sharks The chance to snorkel the Great Barrier Reef has arrived, and you won’t even need to leave Sydney! SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium’s brand new, one-of-a-kind experience, Shark Reef Snorkel, will bring
guests face-to-fin with some of the ocean’s most amazing creatures in their Great Barrier Reef exhibit, the largest in the world.This 1½ hour experience brings the tranquility and beauty
of the heritage-listed landmark to life. Safely protected by a see-through enclosure, this is the ideal way to witness the stunning array of tropical creatures that inhabit the Great Barrier Reef. Guests will receive a full instructional briefing and orientation from a trained expert. With absolutely no diving experience required this unique opportunity is suitable for ages 5 and above. Shark Reef Snorkel is an exhilarating adventure that can be enjoyed individually or with the whole family! The experience also includes priority admission to SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium. More info is available at sydneyaquarium. com.au/shark-reef-snorkel or call 1-800-199-657.
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10%OFF NOT VALID WITH ANY
OTHER OFFER. “She came in like a but three Madonnas PROMO CODE 6037. wrecking ball.” Controversial VALID at the attraction, with TO 31.1.15 pop-idol and world-famous each figure representing ‘twerker’ Miley Cyrus is Madonna from one of her creating a stir at Madame iconic eras. Get “Fearless” and Tussauds Sydney. In an visit superstar Taylor Swift exclusive preview to her from November at Madame Australian ‘Bangerz’ tour in Tussauds Sydney! The singerOctober, the star brings with songwriter and actress last visited her an exciting interactive set Australia in December of 2013 for her fans to star in their very and has a brand new album own wrecking ball moment. to be released. If you missed The singer will only be in Sydney out on seeing Taylor last time until the end of December, so around, now is the perfect time if you want the once in a life to get down and sing a tune time opportunity to sing, dance with the global phenomenon. and twerk with Miley Cyrus With over 70 iconic wax figures then get in fast! Miley joins a in the attraction, the whole star-studded cast of other world family will get the chance to famous female artists such as meet someone they have Katy Perry, Lady Gaga, and always dreamed of! Mini-crime Madonna. Come and look fighters can make plans to save in amazement at Lady Gaga’s the world with Ironman and brand new custom-made Wolverine, while Dad takes a call outfit which was designed as a at the White House with Barack celebration of the performers Obama, and Mum grabs a pic recent Australian tour, while with Brad Pitt. fans of the Queen of Pop can For more info head to “strike a pose” with not one madametussauds.com/Sydney
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+ 2 OR 4 TOP ATTRACTIONS FROM $99
SAVE UP TO
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%
Buy your iVenture Card www.itoursntix.com Call 9263 1100 CITY CENTRE
Level 4, Suite 1, 295 - 301 Pitt Street, Sydney
DARLING HARBOUR Shop 191 Harbourside Shopping Centre (under Hard Rock Cafe) Pier 26 under Helm Bar, Darling Harbour
CIRCULAR QUAY
Shop W1 Corner of Alfred Street (Opposite Wharf 6)
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Must see Sail into Sydney Harbour in style with Sydney Harbour Tall Ships! Sydney Harbour Tall Ships specialise in delivering iconic, yet “out of the box” experiences on magnificent authentic tall ships. Get involved and help hoist the sails or sit back and soak up your surrounds. Climb the mast for a truly “pinch yourself moment” and be rewarded with the most spectacular views of Sydney Harbour. Join Sydney Tall Ships for an epic whale encounter.This is not your typical passive “whale watching” experience; it’s a full day of fun and exciting adventure you will remember forever. For the ultimate Tall Ships experience you can even spend a night on
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50% OFF (FOR 2 ADULTS) CODE WHATSON OFFER EXPIRES 31.1.15
board the world renowned Tall Ship “Soren Larsen” and see the Harbour like never before, or enjoy their new Burlesque show. Both offer unforgettable experiences that are sure to be the highlight of your visit to Sydney. A quintessential Sydney experience. More info head to sydneytallships.com.au or call 1800 825 574
Re-imagine history
Cockatoo Island, Sydney’s own UNESCO World-Heritage-listed island. Just a short ferry ride from Circular Quay, discover a place where history is still alive. www.cockatooisland.gov.au
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magnificent event. More info at newyearsevecruise.com.au
Get on the water this Spring. Jump on board the Eco Hopper and explore the Sydney harbour getting on and off at any of the 8 stops. Enjoy the Spring special lunch or Sunday sunset dinner on Fort Denision. To find out more bassflinders.com.au
The start of the iconic Sydney Hobart yacht race is on Boxing day. Get up close to the fleet start in the harbour then following them out the heads where you can really get up close to the super maxis as they take off down the coast. More information at boxingdaycruises.com More info call 95831199 or visit
New years Eve Cruises are the best way to enjoy a great night out on the harbour with the best views of the amazing fire works. The BYO makes this an economical way to enjoy this
• NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY • SAFE AND FUN FOR AGES 3 TO 103
Indoor Skydiving has arrived in SYDNEY. Feel the rush of human flight in one of the world’s largest wind tunnels. Visit us on the way to the Blue Mountains – only a 10 minute walk from Penrith Train Station next to Advanced & fast track courses available. Penrith Panthers. BOOK YOUR FLIGHT TODAY
1300 366 364 www.iflydownunder.com.au Next to Penrith Panthers World of Entertainment 123 Mulgoa Road Penrith (Sydney) NSW 2750
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Must see
BUY SYDNEY MUSEUMS PASS AND SAVE
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CONDITIONS THE ROCKS is one of the of The Rocks by APPLY. city’s most exciting shopping, visiting Susannah dining and entertainment Place Museum. precincts. It was the site of Here you’ll discover the stories the first colonial settlement in of the hardworking families Australia in 1788 and has been who lived there. Built in 1844 home to colourful characters and located in the heart of The and events for hundreds of Rocks, this untouched workingyears.Today The Rocks is a class terrace was continuously vibrant, contemporary area occupied until 1990, and was of lively hustle and bustle set home to more than 100 against a backdrop of historic different families. Nowadays The splendour. FINDING THE Rocks is a popular area with ROCKS is easy. It’s at the much to see and do.There are northern end of the city, Stop 26 many unique art galleries near Circular Quay and and great eateries, and HOP only a short walk from great Australiana on offer. ON the Opera House. The HOP Ken Duncan Gallery, OFF Sydney Visitor Centre is where you can see a good place to start your visit. Australia’s best landscape Have a chat with the helpful photography.The Rocks is also staff, and off you go! You’ll find known for the unsurpassed the Sydney Visitor Centre at the souvenir shopping in Sydney. corner of Argyle and Playfair We recommend heading to Streets. It is open seven days a the Australia Opal Cutters week from 9.30am till 5.30pm. for the highest quality opals Did you know The Rocks was and pearls in town. Be sure to once one of Sydney’s toughest visit The Rocks markets where neighbourhoods? You can find the streets are lined with stalls out more about the history every week end.
The Rocks
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THE STAR shines bright A visit to Sydney is not complete without a visit to The Star, Sydney’s biggest leisure and entertainment destination. Tantalise your taste buds with signature dining restaurants in BLACK by ezard (steak/seafood grill), Balla (modern Italian) and Sokyo (Japanese), as well as the only Momofuku offering outside of the US from internationally renowned chef, David Chang. If you’re looking for luxury then check in at The Star’s five-star boutique lifestyle hotel in The Darling, a 16-room day spa,
which has hosted many A-list performers from around the world. The Star by night offers something for everyone to enjoy including a live music bar Rock Lily, an international nightclub - Marquee Sydney, a deluxe cocktail lounge -
a high-end retail collection and world-class casino. The Star also boasts an exciting new $100-million Event Centre
Cherry and the popular, huge 24/7 Sports Bar. More info head to star.com.au or call 1800 700 700
82 ¦ WHATSONINSYDNEY.COM.AU SKYDIVE ¦ CLIMB ¦ GALLERIES ¦ MUST SEE ¦ MUSEUMS ¦ THEATRE as you’ll find. There is an extensive ala carte menu with the standout being the chef ’s signature dish: whole baked baby barramundi stuffed with prawn Fish at The Rocks and vegetables. The daily celebrates its 25th anniversary specials board is always a this year. At the harbour end treat of choice. You’ll find Fish of Kent Street you’ll find at the Rocks at 29 Kent street. a gourmet family owned Open for lunch Monday to restaurant called Fish at The Friday and dinner seven nights. Rocks. This family-owned Reservations are advisable call seafood restaurant, split over 9252 4614 two levels, with a terrace overlooking Kent Street, is where those in Sydney in the know go for a great meal. The service is warm and friendly and the food as good
Find your fortune in Sydney. While you’re out and about experiencing all The Rocks has to offer, make sure you stop in at The Argyle Oracle, the meeting place of talented psychics in Sydney since 1993. If you dare you can have your own personal reading with a gifted psychic and find out what the future has in store for you or browse through the vast range of crystals, books, incense,
jewellery, oils, mythical statues, tarot and divination artefacts. The network of English, German and French speaking, psychics provides readings using Tarot, Palmistry, Astrology, Numerology to name a few. Readings are held in private rooms providing a supportive and restful environment.To book your psychic reading phone 02 9247 4982 or go to argyleoracle.com.au
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Centennial Parklands Sydney boasts one of the greatest parklands in the world situated just minutes from the CBD. The Parklands is resplendent with over 15,000 trees and diverse natural beauty. You will discover Australian trees, plants, wildlife, ponds and the famous bat colony.The parklands are easy and safe to explore, walk, run, rollerblade, hire a bike at the bike hire or even try horse riding at the
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Centennial Parklands Equestrian Centre. Pop in for a coffee or a delicious lunch at Centennial Parklands Dining, located in the heart of the Park. Next door at Moore Park you’ll find Moore Park Golf course, a public course, which boasts spectacular views of the Sydney city skyline mooreparkgolf.com.au More info call 9339 6699 or head to centennialparklands.com.au
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Must see
A visit Sydney is not complete without a visit to Manly. Located at the northern end of Sydney Harbour, it is a short 30 minute ride by regular ferry or just 20 minutes by Fast Ferry from Circular Quay. Manly is known for its Village Lifestyle, cafes and restaurants. The sparkling beach is beautiful and boasts great swimming, surfing, walking and simply hanging out. There are plenty of attractions too.
Manly SEA LIFE Sanctuary, gives you a chance to meet some of Australia’s biggest sharks right up close and learn all about our precious marine life. You can visit with Penguins in the new Penguin Cove, as Manly is a breeding habitat for little penguins and they come ashore to nest every night between July February. If you’re brave enough you can even safely dive with the Grey Nurse Sharks at
10%OFF
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Shark Dive Xtreme. Manly SEA LIFE Sanctuary has opened a new rehabilitation facility for sick and injured sea life. For more info call 8251 7877. WHILE YOU’RE in Manly we recommend a visit the North Head Sanctuary, Sydney’s secret getaway, with some of the most spectacular views and photo opportunities in Sydney. Discover Australia’s Memorial Walk, which commemorates Australia’s involvement in conflicts around the world over the last 150 years. Or wander through the Third Quarantine Cemetery where over 240 people were buried between 1881-1919. A fascinating 45-minute guided tour through North Fort’s WWII tunnels and gun emplacements is an exciting addition to your trip. For more info on North Head Sanctuary Manly go to harbourtrust. gov.au If you’re already in Manly the best place to get more information about many of the other Manly visit the Manly Visitors Bureau open seven days, or call 9977 1088 to speak to a helpful staff member.
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10% OFF VALID TO 31.1.15
Sydney Scenic Stand Up Paddleboard We recommend that you try some of the many fun activities in Sydney. You can experience Sydney harbour from a whole new perspective with a Stand Up Paddleboard tour run
by Sydney Scenic SUP. This is an activity that almost anyone can get into with a minimal amount of instruction and it is easier to learn than surfing. For more info go to sydneyscenicsup.com.au
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The Rocks First floor, cnr Argyle and Playfair streets Ph: 02 8273 0000
Darling Harbour Palm Grove Near Imax Theatre Ph: 02 9211 4288
Open daily 9.30am – 5.30pm Closed Christmas Day, Good Friday
Book your tours and accommodation with our in store travel agent, Best of New South Wales.
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Soar above the tree canopies taking in breathtaking views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Blue Mountains with Sydney Tree Top Safari. The unique guided tours feature a series of easy suspension bridges
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and flying foxes (zip lines) and culminates in an exhilarating 360 metre flying fox: the second longest in Australia! and is suitable for everyone aged from 10 to 80. More info at treetopsafari.com.au
10% OFF Promo code WOIS14 VALID TO 31.1.15
JETPACK Training & 2 flights over 90 mins
1800
Intro 10 min flight $135
Weekends $349 Weekdays $249
JETPACK
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Sydney International Regatta Centre Jetpack Lake Open 7 Days 0406 844 564
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Must see
The Koala breeding season is well under way at Featherdale in the Koala breeding habitat. Each year, the Park welcomes up to six joeys that can be seen climbing on their mums’ backs in the Koala nursery. Visitors are able to meet Koalas face to
face throughout the day in the Koala Sanctuary and yes, you can cuddle up to them and take photos for free. Kids will also love petting all the baby animals in the farmyard nursery. The nursery has recently welcomed the arrival of two miniature calves and two Alpacas who have joined farmyard favourites
Sydney’s West
including baby goats and lambs. Featherdale is home to one of the largest collections of Australian animals in the world, including thousands of native birds, reptiles and all of Australia’s unique mammals. You can hand-feed the kangaroos, wallabies and emus and get right up close to bilbys, Tasmanian devils, wombats, dingoes and lots and lots of Australia’s scariest reptiles... there’s even a four-and-a-half metre man-eating saltwater crocodile, but they sure won’t let you hand-feed him! This award-winning wildlife sanctuary is conveniently located in a beautiful natural bush setting mid-way to the Blue Mountains. And What’s
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20%OFF for up to four guests
NOT VALID WITH ANY OTHER OFFER. VALID TO 31.1.15
On in Sydney readers will save 20% off admission with the special coupon on this page. You’ll find Featherdale at 217 Kildare Road, Doonside. Getting there is simple. Many coach tours include the Park on their way to the Blue Mountains
or you can easily get there by public transport (regular train to Blacktown, then bus #725 from the station will drop you right at the Park). For full details and more detailed transport information phone 9622 1644 or go to featherdale.com.au
GET UP CLOSE & PERSONAL open daily 9am-5pm (closed Christmas Day)
217 Kildare Road, Doonside Ph: 02 9622 1644 | www.featherdale.com.au
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Must see
JUST BEYOND the Hawkesbury River on Sydney’s northern boundary lies a rich playground of unspoilt golden beaches, placid lakes, lush rainforest walks and superb National Parks known as the Central Coast. A favourite weekend escape for Sydneysiders, the
Central Coast offers visitors a chance to experience some of Australia’s most beautiful natural wonders, just 90 minutes out of the big smoke. The area boasts numerous coastal towns and villages and a host of interesting attractions for visitors to see. Why not tandem skydive over
Double your fun We know you’re sure to love your skydive, and now you can double your fun at the Sydney-Wollongong location. If you jump again as soon as you have landed, then you can score your second tandem of the day for just
$199 with their same day jump discount! That’s a massive saving of up to $220. Two jumps under your belt in one day could save you some serious dollars. Ask the drop zone staff for more details on the day of your skydive. skydive.com.au
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$30 OFF PER PERSON CONDITIONS APPLY. VALID TO 31.1.15
the NSW Central Coast from an incredible altitude of up to 14,000 feet soaking up stunning views of the Central Coast beaches, the Entrance and Great Lakes. If you’re looking for the ultimate adrenalin filled weekend, Skydive the Beach and Beyond have an awesome adventure package available – add on an Oz Trike Tour with the ‘Ride and Glide’ package, or take to the skies for a second high with the ‘High Flyer’ package that includes a one hour Airwerx flight experience in a Russian ex-military aircraft. It’s the skydiving experience of
a lifetime - so step outside your comfort zone with the friendly Skydive the Beach and Beyond Central Coast skydiving crew. The experience offers fabulous coastal views over some of the prettiest beaches and national parks in the country. You’ll do the jump strapped to a qualified instructor who is fitted with a clever little wrist camera, so you get a complete video of the whole experience when you’re back on the ground. For full details and bookings telephone 1300 663 634, or go to skydive.com.au
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Must see
$30 OFF PER PERSON CONDITIONS APPLY. VALID TO 31.1.15
The Hunter Valley BASED IN the heart of the Hunter Valley at the Newcastle Sport Parachute Club Australia’s oldest skydiving club - Skydive the Beach and Beyond Hunter Valley is located only ten minutes from the birthplace of Australian shiraz the renowned Wyndham Estate. Skydiving over the Hunter Valley wine country from up to 14,000 feet is mind blowing. You’ll experience 60 seconds of life-changing freefall, then float under canopy for 5-7 minutes soaking up spectacular views of the famous Hunter Valley vineyards. And if you’re ready to learn to skydive solo, sign up for an Accelerated Freefall (AFF) course – our drop zone is the birthplace of Australian skydiving. In the Hunter Valley, you’re in safe skies with a skydiving network in operation for over 14 years. So push your boundaries with a Skydive the Beach and Beyond skydiving experience you’ll remember
forever. You’ll get spectacular views of this world-famous wine region and the Hunter River, Great Lakes and Lake Macquarie as you float gently back down to earth. And there’s plenty of opportunity for a spot of wine tasting after the jump. For more information about skydives over the Hunter Valley phone 1300 663 634 or go to skydive.com.au What’s On in Sydney readers will save $30 with this special coupon. If you don’t have your own car you can get to the Central Coast and the Hunter by fast electric train with a MyMulti day pass. These extremely cost-effective tickets cover all forms of public transport in the Greater Sydney region, except hop-on hopoff tourist buses, a couple of non-government ferries and the station access fees to the Sydney Airport stations. For full details go to www.131500. com.au or phone the Transport InfoLine 131 500.
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SKYDIVE ¦ CLIMB ¦ GALLERIES ¦ MUST SEE ¦ MUSEUMS ¦ THEATRE
Need more info? Re-confirming your flight home? YOU SHOULD re-confirm your outbound flight with your airline 72 hours prior to departure. And remember, these days all overseas airlines ask that you check-in at least two hours before scheduled boarding time to allow for heightened security checks. You’ll need to allow about 30 minutes to get to the airport by taxi from the city, but only about 10 –12 minutes if you use the AirportLink train. You can catch the AirportLink from platform 23 at Central Station or from Town Hall, Wynyard, Circular Quay, St James or Museum stations in the city. Trains start running at about 5am and continue until around midnight – roughly every 10 minutes in peak hours and every 15 minutes at off-peak times. But if you can’t make it to one of the city train stations there’s the Airbus Airport Shuttle bus service,
which will pick you up from right outside your city or nearcity hotel and take you to either the domestic or international terminals. These buses also run from early morning until late at night, and you’ll save $2 per person if you pre-book by phone and show them the advertisement on the previous page when boarding.
SAVE UP TO 50% ON EXCESS
BAGGAGE
JETTA EXCESS BAGGAGE Phone 1300 300 688
www.excessbagage.com.au
Need more info? AS WELL as the front-desk staff at your hotel, there are a number of information sources
DOOR DOOR AIRPORT SHUTTLE TO
$2
PER P DIR ERS EC ON
OF
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$15 per person International & domestic terminals Pick-up and drop-off at all city hotels
9557 7615
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Need more info? for visitors in Sydney. The Sydney Visitor Centres centrally located in The Rocks and Darling Harbour and offering a comprehensive service for travellers. Offering free travel booking service for tours, activities, attraction packages and even interstate. You can also collect free maps, brochures, get expert Sydney advice and shop for and an extensive range of quality gifts and souvenirs. located either on Playfair str at The Rocks or at Darling Harbour behind IMAX theatre. sydneyvisitorcentre.com THE FRIENDLY folks at Itoursntix are the leading experts in sightseeing tours, travel experiences and attraction passes Australia wide. With a wide range of carefully selected activities, attractions and the best things to do in Sydney & Beyond. Their friendly customer service agents will ensure that
your holiday is complete without breaking the budget. For Sydney Sightseeing they offer the official Sydney Attraction pass using an iVenture Card, which not only offers savings of up to 50% off general admission at top attractions but it also save’s valuable holiday time with express entry at some of Sydney’s most visited attractions including SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, Madame Tussauds, Australian National Maritime Museum and many more. Each pass comes with an iventure Smart card, a city map & an attraction guide to help you see more and save. Itoursntix are located in Darling Harbour at Shop 191, Harbour Side Shopping Centre and open Daily from 9am to 8:30pm and at Circular Quay Shop W1, underneath Circular Quay train Station Open Daily from 8.30am to 6:00pm. Call 1800 355 537 or itoursntix.com.au
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Essential Information: Travellers with disabilities are well catered for in Sydney. More info: Cityofsydney.com.au OR Sydneyforall.com Spinal cord injuries Australia: .................................................1800 819 775 Wheel Chair accessible Taxis: ....................................................... 8332 0200 Transport info Hotline: ...........................................................................131 500 Useful Information: Sydney’s area code: ...........................................................................................(02) Australia’s country code: ....................................................................................61 To dial overseas dial: .......................................................................................0011 Public Transport: Transport info line: 131 500 or visit www.131500.com.au Airport Link Trains airportlink.com.au 02 8337 8417 Sydney Explorer Hop on Hop off bus 02 9567 8400 Emergency Information: Emergency services, from any phone dial: ............................................000 or dial 112 from a GSM handset. Police assistance line : ..............................................................................131 444 Hospitals: St Vincents Hospital Darlinghurst : ............................................ 8382 1111 Sydney Hospital city: .......................................................................... 9382 1111 Sydney Childrens Hospital Randwick: ...................................... 9382 1111 Royal North Shore Hospital St Leonards: ............................ 9926 1111 Dental: Dentocare: ................................... 02 9221 2715 dentocare@tpg.com.au Taxis: ABC Cabs: ..........................13 25 22 Legion Cabs: .................. 13 14 51 Manly Cabs: ........................13 16 68 Premier Cabs: ............... 13 10 17 RSL Taxis: .........................9581 1111 Silver services: .................133 100 Taxis combined:.................. 133 300 City of Sydney 02 9265 9333. Anytime, anyday. Markets Information: .............................marketscentral.com.au
FREE MANLY FAST FERRY From Circular Quay to Manly with every ticket to Manly SEALIFE Sanctuary manlyfastferry.com.au
02 9583 1199
manlyfastferry
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Extract of maps only.View full maps at transportnsw.info Maps reproduced with the approval of Transport for NSW.
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CLIMB ABOARD
Spectacularly located on the Darling Harbour waterfront, here you’ll find lively exhibitions, tall ships, Navy warships, a submarine and beautifully restored historic vessels. DARLING HARBOUR 9:30AM TO 5PM DAILY | ANMM.GOV.AU | (02) 9298 3777
The Sydney Opera House Tour.
Take our one hour official tour inside the UNESCO World Heritage masterpiece: • Journey inside the theatres and foyers • Access rare photography opportunities • Tours run daily from 9am – 5pm Available in English, French, German, Mandarin, Japanese and Korean*
SY D N E Y O P E R A H O U S E P R I N C I PA L PA RT N E R
Book at the Box Office or visit sydneyoperahouse.com/tours 9250 7777
*Subject to Availability
BOOK ONLINE TO SAVE 10%