Posts Tagged ‘bondi beach’

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.

This unique event combines some of the most amazing sculptures with probably the best coastal walk in Australia. During the first two weeks of November, the Bondi to Bronte coastal walk comes alive with fascinating and often querky sculptures to delight all ages.

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.

Last year the prestigious $30,000 prize went to Mark McCelland’s “She Thought” which was a large bronze sculpture with a key hole allowing visitors to 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.

Make a day of it. Bondi, Tamarama and Bronte all have BBQ facilities. Bring your own food and enjoy the views. Alternatively there are plenty of cafes in both Bondi and Bronte for you to take a well deserved rest. Some venues put on special events to coincide with the exhibition. Many run their own Sausage Sizzle and BBQ in hidden away terraces.

If you want to find the right place to enjoy the views and food, try the Bondi Icebergs RSL for some cheap eats 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 a little more sophisticated, try Icebergs Dining Rooms where you’ll be greeted with a sumptuous BBQ.

In Bronte the small row of cafes offers something for everyone. SWELL is a good choice for those wanting something more upmarket. Jennies is a good all rounder but particularly good for those of you who like coffee.

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 aren’t planning to be in Sydney in November but really like the sound of this event, don’t worry! You can catch the same event in Perth during the month of March. This one takes place on Cottesloe Beach and is almost identical to the Bondi version.

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 travelling Australia and has recently become a new Mum. Her website, www.realaustraliatravel.com offers practical information for planning your trip to Australia as well as what to do and where to go. Click here for more details on Sydney and it’s attractions