Sunday, November 8, 2009

Sydney And Its Beach Culture

By Jennifer Schellington

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.

The Bondi to Bronte Coastal Walk offers one of the most beautiful walks in Australia at the best of times. But in November, it is extra special with the arrival of some amazing sculptures that will be enjoyed by all ages.

The competition has been running for 12 years and attracts over half a million visitors. There are 9 different prizes up for grabs and over 100 different sculptures to appreciate. All of the sculptures 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.

If this is your first time to the exhibition, take some advice from a local.. It gets VERY busy and it makes the experience so much better if you can take in the sculptures at your own pace and not surrounded by mounds of people. Try to go early to beat the crowds.

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.

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.

Make sure this event is on your Sydney TO DO list. What are you waiting for? Get up early and go mix culture with some classic Sydney Beach action.

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