Sydney And Its Beach Culture
If you are heading to Sydney during in November then make sure the Sculpture by the Sea is on your must do list. This is an important Sydney event and is only here for a short time. The last date is 15th November.
During the first two weeks of November, the Bondi to Bronte coastal walk comes alive with fascinating and often amusing sculptures to delight all ages. This unique event combines some of the most impressive sculptures with probably the best coastal walk in Australia
The competition is now in its 12th year and last year attracted over half a million visitors. There are over 100 different sculptures to appreciate with 9 different prizes on offer. All of the sculptures are designed to respond in some way to the beautiful coastal setting.
Mark McCelland’s won the prestigious $30,000 prize last year for his “She Thought” which was a large bronze sculpture with a key hole where visitors could see the ocean horizon.
A word of warning about this exhibition. It gets VERY busy and it makes the experience so much better if you can linger and admire the artwork on your own rather than part of a huge crowd. Get up early to avoid the crowds, especially if the weather forecast is for a sunny day.
Another recommendation would be to make a day of it. Bondi, Tamarama and Bronte all have BBQ facilities. This is a great way to bring your own food and enjoy the delightful views. Alternatively there are plenty of cafes in both Bondi and Bronte which allows you to take it easy for a while. Some venues put on special food to coincide with the exhibition. Many run their own Sausage Sizzle and BBQs on street corners or hidden terraces.
Try the Bondi Icebergs RSL for some cheap fodder with amazing views. Don’t forget to bring some photo ID with you otherwise you will be refused entry no matter how old you are. For something more upmarket head to Icebergs Dining Rooms where you’ll be greeted with a sumptuous BBQ.
There’s not much at Tamarama but stroll onto Bronte and you will be greeted by a delightful row of cafes. Here you’ll find something for every taste. Try SWELL for some upmarket brunch or Jennies for the best coffee this side of the beach.
You’ll also be able to pick up brochures at key points along the walk, which will help explain a little more about the sculptures. Whilst you may be lucky and get free drink samples, make sure you take plenty of water with you as the walk is still strenuous in places with hills and steps. It makes it a difficult walk with young children or those of you with prams and strollers.
If you do miss this event in Sydney then why not consider going to Perth in March to see it? This event takes place just outside of the city on Cottesloe Beach and is almost identical to the Bondi exhibit.
This is one part of the Sydney beach culture that you won’t want to miss. Make it an early start one day this week to really make the most of it. Avoid the weekend crowds if you can!
Jennifer Schellington has nearly half a decade of experience in traveling Australia and has recently had a baby. Her site, www.realaustraliatravel.com offers practical information for planning your trip to Australia as well as where to go and what to do. Click here for more details on Sydney and it’s attractions
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