BY KERRI ELLIS
These experiences, attractions and Sydney icons won’t cost you a brass razoo. Who doesn’t want to see one of the world’s most fabulous cities for very little?
Take the Bondi to Coogee Walk – take in the stunning views as you make your way from Bondi to Coogee. Starting at the northern end of Bondi Beach, two hours and six kilometres later, you’ll finish up at Coogee Beach. You will have trekked past Tamarama Beach, Bronte Beach, Clovelly Beach and Gordons Bay. If you do this walk in October – November, you will also experience the delights of Sculpture by Sea. https://sculpturebythesea.com/bondi/
Stroll across the Sydney Harbour Bridge – this walk is free and gives you the most spectacular views of our Harbour. You can enter the walk from either Milson’s Point to travel north to south, or from the stairs in Cumberland Street at The Rocks to travel south to north. The views out across the harbour are stunning.
Gaze out from North Head – arrive for sunset or sunrise, and you won’t be disappointed as your eyes take in the sweeping views of the Sydney skyline. To reach the start of the North Head, head for the steps that lead up from the picnic area at Shelly Beach, walk straight through the parking lot, and you’ll spot the start of the trail on the other side.
Visit The Royal Botanical Gardens – the perfect picnic spot in Sydney. These gardens are majestic. Bring your picnic basket, walk the 30-hectacres of the grounds and the gardens; breathe in the scent of the flowers and visit the ducks at the pond whilst you enjoy your picnic goodies. Down that way, you will also find the Making Art Project you can drop in to see – https://50years.kaldorartprojects.org.au/
Soak up the good vibes at the Art Gallery of NSW – follow the road as you enter the Domain and you will come across the grand looking building that houses the Art Gallery of NSW. Established in 1871, the Gallery is an extremely proud institute that proudly presents fine international and Australian art in one of the most beautiful art museums in the world.
Art After Hours – at the Art Gallery every Wednesday night until 10:00pm with tours, talks, and music. Finish off your night at the café that is open until 9:30pm; or come prior to the night’s scheduled activities for dinner in the Restaurant that is open until 9pm. During September, join in for 50 Years of Making Art Public. https://www.artgallery.nsw.gov.au/exhibitions/making-art-public/
Brett Whiteley Studio – Sydney’s best kept secret! Visit this Studio for an intimate insight into this brilliant avant-garde artist. His studio is in Surry Hills, with very few changes having been made to the building since Brett Whitely was in residence. Even the music that is played comes from his music collection. Open for public views Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. https://www.artgallery.nsw.gov.au/brett-whiteley-studio/
Wendy Whiteley’s Secret Gardens – these gardens can be found at Lavender Bay overlooking the glorious Sydney Harbour. Wendy and her well known husband, Brett Whitley, created their home at Lavender Bay in the late 1970’s. When Brett died in 1992, Wendy threw herself into cleaning up the overgrown and shabby area at the base of their home. Today, these beautiful gardens are open to anyone who chooses to visit. Not only will you soak up the Zen from the gardens, but will see works by Brett and see where he created some of his incredible artworks. https://www.wendyssecretgarden.org.au/wendys-story/
Culture at the Museum of Contemporary Art – the Art Deco building, with a modern space added to it, overlooks the Sydney harbour. It houses a permanent collection of Australian and international contemporary art that can be seen for free. There’s a marvellous rooftop café where you can enjoy the stunning views of Sydney harbour. There are free guided tours daily. https://www.mca.com.au/
