Minister for Tourism and Arts Ben Franklin speaking at the SXSW Sydney First Look Credit: Destination NSW
Minister for Tourism and Arts Ben Franklin speaking at the SXSW Sydney First Look
#feelnewsydney
WITH INNER SYDNEY EVENT PRECINCT & EVENT FORMATS UNVEILED
ANNOUNCES FIRST KEYNOTE SPEAKER AMY WEBB
ALONGSIDE THE FIRST ROUND OF FEATURED SPEAKERS (IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER) ANDREW PASK, BEN LAMM, GUY KAWASAKI, JACK REIS, KYAS HEPWORTH, LARISSA BEHRENDT, MANAL AL-SHARIF, MICHAEL J. BIERCUK, PER SUNDIN, QUE MINH LUU, ROBYN DENHOLM, ROHIT BHARGAVA, SAM BARLOW, SEAN MIYASHIRO, SHEILA NGUYEN, SUNG-EUN YOUN, TOM VERRILLI, YIYING LU, YOOMIN YANG + MORE TO COME
ANNOUNCES FIRST INTERNATIONAL ACTS PERFORMING AT SXSW SYDNEY MUSIC FESTIVALCONNIE CONSTANCE (UK), EKKSTACY (CANADA), LOS BITCHOS (UK), OTOBOKE BEAVER (JAPAN), REDVEIL (US) + MORE TO COME
FIRST PLATINUM & INDUSTRY BADGES ARE ON SALE NOW PURCHASE EARLY BIRD BADGES HERE
SXSW SYDNEY SESSION SELECT, MUSIC FESTIVAL & SCREEN FESTIVAL SUBMISSIONS ARE NOW OPEN
SUBMIT YOUR SXSW SYDNEY MUSIC FESTIVAL PERFORMANCE APPLICATION HERE
SUBMIT YOUR SXSW SYDNEY SCREEN FESTIVAL SCREENING APPLICATION HERE
SUBMIT YOUR SXSW SYDNEY SESSION SELECT PANEL PROPOSAL HERE
SXSW SYDNEY™
OCTOBER 15 - 22, 2023
SYDNEY NSW, AUSTRALIA
MORE INFORMATION HERE
IN COLLABORATION WITH THE NSW GOVERNMENT VIA DESTINATION NSW, TEG & SXSW®
SXSW Sydney First Look VNR Credit: Destination NSW
Hon. Ben Franklin MP: 00:050:00 - 02:05:07 Colin Daniels (SXSW Sydney Managing Director: 02:05:07 - 02:37:10 Darin Kleine (SXSW Partner & Executive Vice-President): 02:37:11 - 03:24:00 B-Roll: 03:24:00 - 06:41:00
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SXSW Sydney First Look VNR Credit: Destination NSW
Hon. Ben Franklin MP: 00:050:00 - 02:05:07 Colin Daniels (SXSW Sydney Managing Director: 02:05:07 - 02:37:10 Darin Kleine (SXSW Partner & Executive Vice-President): 02:37:11 - 03:24:00 B-Roll: 03:24:00 - 06:41:00
SXSW Sydney First Look Credit: Destination NSW
L – R: Fenella Kernebone (SXSW Sydney Head of Conference Programming), Colin Daniels (SXSW Sydney Managing Director), Minister for Tourism and Arts Ben Franklin & Destination NSW CEO Steve Cox
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SXSW Sydney First Look Credit: Destination NSW
L – R: Fenella Kernebone (SXSW Sydney Head of Conference Programming), Colin Daniels (SXSW Sydney Managing Director), Minister for Tourism and Arts Ben Franklin & Destination NSW CEO Steve Cox
Sydney, NSW - Thursday, February 9: Today, futurist conference and festival, South by Southwest (SXSW) Sydney™ launches the first look at its inaugural 2023 event, unveiling its inner-Sydney precinct location, event formats and announcing the first badges on sale at Early Bird pricing. Additionally, the event reveals the Conference program’s first Keynote Speaker - American futurist, author and CEO/Founder of Future Today Institute, Amy Webb, alongside its first line-ups of Featured Speakers and music acts.
Sydney, famous for its sparkling harbour and golden beaches, will be the first city outside of Austin, Texas to gather the world’s most inspired thinkers, creators and innovators in the southern hemisphere. The harbour city’s tech and culture scene will converge to host this future-focused event that will see the Asia-Pacific’s pre-eminent creative industries come together across content pillars of Tech and Innovation, Gaming, Music, Screen and Culture within a full week program running from Sunday, October 15 to Sunday, October 22, 2023.
To access what SXSW Sydney has to offer, you need a badge. Platinum and Industry badges are now available at Early Bird prices HERE.
Event Precinct
Supported by the NSW Government’s tourism and major events agency, Destination NSW, SXSW Sydney will encompass a walkable footprint within the Sydney CBD and surrounding neighbourhoods. True to the spirit of discovery at the core of SXSW®, areas such as Haymarket, Darling Harbour, Ultimo, Chippendale and more will transform into a vibrant, interconnected hub of event formats including festivals, performances, premieres, exhibitions, meet-ups, speakers, pitches and networking opportunities, with ideas and surprises to uncover on every street corner.
Event Formats
A core part of the event is the SXSW Sydney Conference, taking place in multiple venues including ICC Sydney, UTS, The Powerhouse Museum and more, featuring more than 400 keynotes, presentations, panels, workshops and mentor sessions with inspiring thinkers and leaders. The SXSW Sydney Technology & Innovation Exhibitions will showcase innovative and emerging tech and entertainment companies from across the Asia-Pacific region, while the Startup Village serves as a seminal spot for meet-ups, presentations and workspace areas with showcases from the brightest up-and-coming businesses across all industries and sectors.
As announced earlier in 2023, the SXSW Sydney 2023 Music Festival will take over multiple live music venues in central Sydney, where official showcasing artists will perform in front of industry reps, media and thousands of fans and fellow musicians from across the globe. Musicians can now apply HERE to participate. Expanding well beyond a traditional film festival, the SXSW Sydney Screen Festival will offer a future-focused program of film, episodic content, digital, XR and social content premieres, showcasing screen-culture’s diversity in the Asia-Pacific and beyond. From red carpet premieres to immersive screen experiences, Q&As and panel discussions with creators, expect industry and public access to world-leading screen ideas and perspectives. Applications are open now to filmmakers and screen creatives HERE.
Newly announced, the SXSW Sydney Gaming Festival will celebrate the future of the industry and embrace the power and potential of games. Over 100 local and international independent games will be playable across Showcase venues and the myriad other festival venues in the SXSW Sydney precinct. Demonstrations, product launches, hands-on play, stage sessions, performances, screenings, unique exhibitions and social events are waiting to be discovered, as the festival provides an opportunity for gaming industry professionals and audiences to connect, collaborate, exhibit and build relationships with each other in an unmissable, incomparable setting.
Geoff Jones, Chair, SXSW Sydney says: “SXSW Sydney will be a complete game-changer for Sydney and the Asia Pacific. Locally, it will increase visitation and bolster the creative economy. Within APAC, it will facilitate a special connection between creative industries and businesses in the region – the kind that can lead to collaboration and innovation on a global scale. I can’t wait to see the opportunities flow on from October this year.”
Ben Franklin, NSW Minister for Tourism and the Arts says on the significant benefits to Sydney’s visitor economy and creative industries: “Sydney is the economic and leisure gateway to Australia with a global reputation for hosting major international events that capture the world's attention. One of Sydney’s greatest assets is its numerous world-class event facilities, located within close proximity to the CBD. An event of this scale will activate a large number of venues throughout the city, supporting the entire ecosystem of Sydney’s visitor and night-time economy. South By Southwest Sydney will put a spotlight on the Harbour City as the major events and creative industries capital of the Asia Pacific.”
Colin Daniels, Managing Director, SXSW Sydney adds: "Today’s announcement is simply the first port in a voyage of discovery. Over the next eight months we will reveal more speakers, more music, more screen and more gaming content from Australia, the Asia Pacific and from around the world. I’m excited to partner with some of the leading innovators in the creative, business and technology communities to enable people to see their world, their work and their ingenuity from a series of new and inspiring angles.”
Jann Baskett, Co-President and Chief Brand Officer of SXSW says: "We’re excited to see SXSW Sydney come to life with its first programming announcement. From Austin alumni including Amy Webb, Guy Kawasaki and Yiying Lu to innovative speakers from the Asia Pacific region, this lineup serves as a testament to SXSW Sydney’s commitment to providing a platform for creative thinkers across the many industries the event will highlight.”
Minister for Tourism and Arts Ben Franklin speaking at the SXSW Sydney First Look Credit: Destination NSW
Minister for Tourism and Arts Ben Franklin speaking at the SXSW Sydney First Look
#feelnewsydney
Minister for Tourism and Arts Ben Franklin speaking at the SXSW Sydney First Look Credit: Destination NSW
Minister for Tourism and Arts Ben Franklin speaking at the SXSW Sydney First Look
SXSW Sydney First Look Credit: Destination NSW
Colin Daniels (SXSW Sydney Managing Director), Minister for Tourism and Arts Ben Franklin & Destination NSW CEO Steve Cox
#feelnewsydney
SXSW Sydney First Look Credit: Destination NSW
Colin Daniels (SXSW Sydney Managing Director), Minister for Tourism and Arts Ben Franklin & Destination NSW CEO Steve Cox
First Keynote Speaker
Today, SXSW Sydney unveils its first ever keynote speaker appearing at the 2023 inaugural event.
Amy Webb is an American futurist, author and CEO/Founder of the leading foresight and future strategy firm, Future Today Institute. Named ‘one of the five women changing the world’ according to Forbes in 2022, one of the BBC’s 100 Women of 2020, and ranked on the Thinkers50 list of the 50 most influential management thinkers globally, Amy has been celebrated for her pioneering data-driven, technology-led foresight methodology which advises hundreds of leaders and organisations on how to prepare for complex futures. Amy also collaborates closely with Hollywood writers and producers on film, TV programs and commercials about science, technology and the future, while her most recent book The Genesis Machine also expands to the field synthetic biology - which combines biology with artificial intelligence. An unmissable keynote to catch at SXSW Sydney.
First Featured Speakers
This is accompanied by the first unveiling of SXSW Sydney Featured Speakers, who will join a line-up of 600 speakers across the Conference programming.
Appearing together on the Conference line-up will be serial entrepreneur and co-founder and CEO of Colossal, Ben Lamm, and expert in the exploration of mammalian evolution, development and reproductive technologies, Andrew Pask of the School of BioSciences at the University of Melbourne. In tandem with Colossal’s pursuit of the de-extinction of the Woolly Mammoth, the revolutionary genetic sciences company has now partnered with Prof. Pask’s lab to further his work on the de-extinction of the Thylacine (Tasmanian Tiger). Their passionate and disruptive work promises another can’t-miss item on the SXSW Sydney agenda.
Ben Lamm says; “One thing I remain hyper-focused on as a leader is bringing the best and brightest together across industries in order to celebrate technological innovation, art exploration and cultural experiences. SXSW has established the world’s zeitgeist of disruption across these verticals, and I’m honoured to continue to be connected to its global stage.”
Chief Evangelist of Canva and former Apple Chief Evangelist, Guy Kawasaki brings unrivalled experience in evolving technology to SXSW Sydney. Author of The Remarkable Mindset, Wise Guy, The Art of the Start 2.0 and thirteen other books, plus host of his Remarkable People podcast, Kawasaki is not to be missed.
Also speaking this October is Jack Reis, co-founder of Baidam Solutions, a cyber security business based in Brisbane that meets a critical gap in the First Nations business sector.
Jack Reis also contributes; "SXSW is truly a movement bringing together many cultures. My heritage is First Nations Australian, I am Badulaig (Badu man), from Zenadth Kes (the Torres Strait). When you embrace many cultures and industries you invariably introduce diversity. Bringing together and showcasing the tech, gaming and the creative industries of music and screenplay allows for more ideas, more talent, more skills, and a diversity of perspectives which increases the potential for your desired accomplishments. I’m looking forward to experiencing this firsthand at SXSW Sydney 2023.
Head of Screen NSW, Kyas Hepworth is a Bundjalung woman who has dedicated her career to bringing unique and authentic stories to the screen, now leading the state’s film and production strategy while also advancing NSW’s position in Digital games. Currently on the Board of AusFilm, and previously NITV’s Head of Commissioning and Programming and a Board Member of the Australian International Documentary Conference, Kyas’ work has crossed documentaries, feature films, TV series, web series and more - an exceptional leading figure from the local Screen industry.
Lawyer, writer, filmmaker and Distinguished Professor and Laureate Fellow at Jumbunna Research, University of Technology Sydney, Larissa Behrendt AO appears - also known as the host of Speaking Out on ABC Radio.
Saudi women’s rights activist, author, podcast host, cyber security specialist and founder of the Ethical Technologists Society, Manal al-Sharif will appear at SXSW Sydney. A pioneer of a right-to-drive campaign in her home country, al-Sharif’s perspective on the intersection between human rights and technology is invaluable.
CEO and Founder of quantum technology company Q-CTRL, Michael J. Biercuk is a SXSW and TEDx speaking alumnus, plus a multi-time Australian Museum Eureka Prize nominee and winner. Biercuk holds a PhD from Harvard University, and has been a Professor of Quantum Physics and Quantum Technology at the University of Sydney. Previously, he worked at DARPA in the US Department of Defense, the most successful research funding agency in the world responsible for bringing you the internet, stealth technology, mobile phones and night vision. He's an avid collector of mechanical watches and a member of the GPHG Academy, bringing together the worlds of quantum tech and watches.
Swedish CEO of Pophouse Entertainment, Per Sundin has worked with some of the greatest-selling Nordic artists, including Avicii, ABBA, Tove Lo, Swedish House Mafia, alongside playing a pivotal role in the rise of Spotify.
As Director of Content at Netflix, Que Minh Luu is responsible for bringing shows like Heartbreak High, Irreverent and Boy Swallows Universe to life. Luu brings previous experience as an executive producer at the ABC, having also worked in scripted drama, comedy and digital content alongside time spent as a film editor.
Australian business executive Robyn Denholm is the Chair of Tesla and Operating Partner of venture capital firm Blackbird Ventures. A passionate advocate for innovation, Denholm brings illustrious life and leadership experience from the tech industry.
Denholm says: “We believe Australia is on the cusp of a once in a generation opportunity to become a global technology powerhouse and SXSW Sydney brings the incredible opportunity to showcase our Australian technology story to the world.”
Rohit Bhargava is an entrepreneur, bestselling author and founder of The Non-Obvious Company, dedicated to helping leaders, organisations and curators to see what others might miss, and become more creative and innovative in preparing for the future in their industries.
Sam Barlow is a BAFTA Games Award-winning game designer, and founder of Half Mermaid Productions. Sam is best known for his work as a writer and director of video games that push the boundaries of interactive narrative, such as Her Story, Silent Hill: Shattered Memories, Telling Lies, his most ambitious recent project, IMMORTALITY - a horror story about 20th Century filmmaking, art and death.
Sean Miyashiro is the founder and CEO of internationally-renowned, multi-disciplinary media company, 88rising (home to Joji, NIKI, Rich Brian and more), whose mission is to amplify Asian and Asian-American talent and youth culture across the globe. Since founding 88rising in 2015 Miyashiro has transformed the music world, redefining what a record label can be while cultivating a diverse roster of Asian talent. The collective have also curated a myriad of internationally successful endeavours - including Head In The Clouds Festival, being first and only record label to have a main stage slot at Coachella 2022, and also making their mark in the film world, with Miyashiro executive producing the soundtrack to one of the biggest movies of the year: Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings.
Sheila Nguyen is a leading regenerative built environment design professional, who has become a leading figure in addressing strategic and operational environmental sustainability issues within sport. Sheila was given the Honorary Lifetime Member award from the British Association for Sustainable Sport (BASIS) and recognised as an Australian Financial Review Top 100 Women of Influence (2019) for her leadership in galvanising the sport industry to protect and respect the natural environment. Now as Head of Sustainability for the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023, Dr. Nguyen’s work at the cross section of climate action, sustainable development and sport continues.
Sung-Eun YOUN is one of Korea’s most important film critics, an author, a member of the executive committee of the Korean Association of Film Critics, and a respected university lecturer with a PhD in film studies. Having recently established her own entertainment company focused on finding engaging stories, Sung-Eun is widely recognised for her work in putting Korean film on the map.
Tom Verrilli is the Chief Product Officer at Twitch, where the Australian is responsible for the Product, Engineering and Applied Science teams who are behind streamer tools, content discovery, community engagement and safety. Previously Twitch’s VP of Viewer Experience, Verrilli’s impressive career path has also included bringing NFL games to Twitter.
Award-winning artist and entrepreneur, Yiying Lu appears at SXSW Sydney as one of Fast Company’s Most Creative People in Business and Microsoft's Top 10 Emerging Leaders in Innovation. Yiying’s iconic design creations including the Twitter Fail Whale and Chinese paper-cut Style Mickey Mouse for the Disney Shanghai opening have appeared in The New York Times, Forbes, The Wall Street Journal and BBC.
Yoomin YANG is a co-founder, CEO and executive producer at Korean production company, WOW POINT, where she oversees their extensive TV and film development and production slate including recently announced Netflix Series, Parasyte: The Grey. Yoomin’s other recent achievements include producing a Korean adaptation of Netflix’s Money Heist, among other projects.
Melbourne artist JACOTÉNE performing at SXSW Sydney launch party Credit: Jess Gleeson
Melbourne artist JACOTÉNE performing at SXSW Sydney launch party. @sxswsydney, @jessgleeson, @jacotene
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Melbourne artist JACOTÉNE performing at SXSW Sydney launch party Credit: Jess Gleeson
Melbourne artist JACOTÉNE performing at SXSW Sydney launch party. @sxswsydney, @jessgleeson, @jacotene
SXSW Sydney Managing Director, Colin Daniels, speaks at launch party Credit: Jess Gleeson
SXSW Sydney Managing Director, Colin Daniels, speaks at launch party. @sxswsydney, @jessgleeson
#feelnewsydney
SXSW Sydney Managing Director, Colin Daniels, speaks at launch party Credit: Jess Gleeson
SXSW Sydney Managing Director, Colin Daniels, speaks at launch party. @sxswsydney, @jessgleeson
First Music Artists
SXSW Sydney is also excited to reveal the first international music acts on its festival program, with many more to be announced across the year. Hailing from four countries and spanning genres from hip-hop and indie-rock to pop and punk, these rapidly-rising acts represent the first glimpse into a future-star studded music program, to be announced across the year.
Making their debut Australian appearances at SXSW Sydney are Nigerian-British indie-pop songwriter CONNIE CONSTANCE (touted by BBC Radio 1, NME and The Guardian for her tracks infused with punk and soul); Canadian new-wave breakthrough solo artist EKKSTACY (appearances at Pitchfork Festival London, supported HEALTH and Purity Ring, 6 million monthly Spotify listeners); London-based quartet LOS BITCHOS (endorsed by King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard and The Guardian, making Coachella debut this April); ferocious Japanese punk four-piece OTOBOKE BEAVER (global sell-out shows and rave reviewed from Pitchfork, NPR, i-D and The Fader) and American rapper-producer teenager redveil (toured with Denzel Curry and Freddie Gibbs, scored a 8.0 Pitchfork review for his debut LP learn to swim, 3.6 million monthly Spotify listeners and counting).
How to attend and participate in SXSW Sydney
A major contribution to SXSW Sydney’s conference panel programming comes via Session Select, which enables individuals and groups to submit proposals for solo presentations, panels or workshops. Almost 1,000 creatives have registered for Session Select so far. Ideas will be voted on by the broader SXSW Sydney community and reviewed for final selection by SXSW Sydney committees and programming teams. Submit your proposal HERE, before applications close on the extended date of February 28, 2023 at 11:59pm AEDT.
A SXSW Sydney badge provides access to the week-long conference, expo, festivals and networking sessions, with each badge type granting varying levels of access. Platinum and Industry badges provide core access to more than 1,000 ground-breaking events and networking sessions with some of the world’s leading thinkers, performers and industry professionals, and are available for Early Bird purchase now. Platinum badges secure the holder primary access to all programming, while Industry badges secure priority access to all conference events and industry-specific festivals, talks, workshops and parties. Learn more and buy your badge today at https://sxswsydney.com/.
Sydney is the leading connector to innovation and creativity in the Asia-Pacific; the events and theatre capital of the region, and ranks second in Asia for fin-tech development and sixth globally*. Further SXSW Sydney conference, festival, exhibition and event line-ups will be revealed across 2023, with opportunities to attend over 1000 sessions, screenings and performances, immersive activations, unforgettable parties and dynamic networking events across the city. This October, discover the unexpected ideas and diverse discussions SXSW Sydney makes possible when creative people come together.
SXSW SYDNEY™
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DESTINATION NSW
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TEG
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SXSW SYDNEY™
IN COLLABORATION WITH THE NSW GOVERNMENT VIA DESTINATION NSW, TEG & SXSW®
OCTOBER 15 - 22, 2023
SYDNEY NSW, AUSTRALIA
PLATINUM & INDUSTRY BADGES NOW AVAILABLE AT EARLY BIRD PRICES HERE
MUSIC FESTIVAL, SCREEN FESTIVAL & SESSION SELECT SUBMISSIONS ARE NOW OPEN
SUBMIT YOUR SXSW SYDNEY SESSION SELECT SUBMISSION HERE
SUBMIT YOUR SXSW SYDNEY MUSIC FESTIVAL SUBMISSION HERE
SUBMIT YOUR SXSW SYDNEY SCREEN FESTIVAL SUBMISSION HERE
Famous for its sparkling harbour and golden beaches, Sydney is Australia’s most diverse and inclusive city and is home to a thriving arts and culture scene and buzzing 24-hour economy. As the gateway for international arrivals and major events capital of the Asia Pacific - there is no better city than Sydney to host SXSW’s next chapter. For more information on the host city of SXSW Sydney and things to see and do in Sydney, visit www.sydney.com. Share your favourite Sydney experiences on social media using @sydney #FeelNewSydney
SXSW SYDNEY, SOUTH BY SOUTHWEST SYDNEY and other SXSW, LLC marks used under license
We acknowledge the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation as the Traditional Custodians of this land we now call Sydney, where this event will take place. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging for their continuing connection with cultural, spiritual and educational practices, and extend this respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples. Always was, always will be.
Sydney artist 1300 performing at SXSW Sydney launch party Credit: Jess Gleeson
Sydney artist 1300 performing at SXSW Sydney launch party. @sxswsydney, @jessgleeson, @1300.info
#feelnewsydney
Sydney artist 1300 performing at SXSW Sydney launch party Credit: Jess Gleeson
Sydney artist 1300 performing at SXSW Sydney launch party. @sxswsydney, @jessgleeson, @1300.info
SXSW Sydney launch party guests enjoying Red Bull racing game Credit: Jess Gleeson
SXSW Sydney launch party guests enjoying Red Bull racing game. @sxswsydney, @jessgleeson
#feelnewsydney
SXSW Sydney launch party guests enjoying Red Bull racing game Credit: Jess Gleeson
SXSW Sydney launch party guests enjoying Red Bull racing game. @sxswsydney, @jessgleeson
About SXSW®
SXSW® dedicates itself to helping creative people achieve their goals. Founded in 1987 in Austin, Texas, SXSW® is best known for its conference and festivals that celebrate the convergence of tech, film, music, education, and culture. An essential destination for global professionals, the annual March event features sessions, music and comedy showcases, film screenings, expos, professional development and a variety of networking opportunities. SXSW® proves that the most unexpected discoveries happen when diverse topics and people come together.
About SXSW Sydney™
SXSW Sydney will become the official annual Asia-Pacific instalment of SXSW®. With a welcoming and vibrant energy, coupled with a uniquely distinct mix of iconic attractions, stunning natural landscapes, and status as the major events capital of the Asia-Pacific - there is no better city than Sydney to host SXSW’s next chapter. As Australia’s only truly global city and gateway for international arrivals, Sydney’s cultural diversity makes it the perfect incubator for creative ingenuity. Informed by a multicultural landscape and an enduring preservation of past, present and future Indigenous cultural heritage, Sydney offers a rich and exciting arts and culture scene with beautiful galleries, acclaimed theatres and burgeoning performance spaces. Sydney continues to lead the way in tech-innovation, boasting an eclectic creative footprint, ranking second in Asia for fin-tech development, and sixth globally*.
SXSW Sydney gathers inspired thinkers, creators and innovators from across the world for an agenda-setting exploration of the Tech and Innovation, Gaming, Music, Screen and Culture industries. From start-up pitches, networking opportunities and mind-bending activations in technology, to showcasing future trends across interconnected layers of the gaming industry, SXSW Sydney will unite gaming, tech and innovation industry professionals within a future-facing series of Expos. Meanwhile, established and emerging artists will reach new audiences at the SXSW Sydney Music Festivals, and a Screen Festival program will engage public and industry audiences to honour screen culture in the Asia-Pacific region.
About Destination NSW
Destination NSW is the lead agency, champion and voice for the visitor economy within the NSW Government. Spearheading a whole-of-government approach to visitor economy growth, Destination NSW is responsible for leading the delivery of the NSW Visitor Economy Strategy 2030 in partnership with government and industry. Destination NSW influences and shapes the visitor economy through strategic research, policy and thought leadership, stakeholder engagement and consultation, commercial partnerships and investment in visitor experiences, business support, marketing and events. Destination NSW is also the major investor in Business Events Sydney (BESydney) for the purpose of securing more international and domestic conventions, incentive travel reward programs, corporate events and expos for Sydney and regional NSW.
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*Source: Australia is now ranked second in Asia for fintech development, and sixth globally.
For press inquiries please contact:
Charlotte Harrison | charlotte@thinkingloud.com.au
Harper Sassaman | harper@thinkingloud.com.au
Apply for media accreditation now HERE.
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SXSW Sydney launch party, entrance to event Credit: Jordan Kirk
SXSW Sydney launch party, entrance to event. @sxswsydney, @xingerxanger
#feelnewsydney
SXSW Sydney launch party, entrance to event Credit: Jordan Kirk
SXSW Sydney launch party, entrance to event. @sxswsydney, @xingerxanger
SXSW Sydney launch party, crowd shot Credit: Jordan Kirk
SXSW Sydney launch party, crowd shot. @sxswsydney, @xingerxanger
#feelnewsydney
SXSW Sydney launch party, crowd shot Credit: Jordan Kirk
SXSW Sydney launch party, crowd shot. @sxswsydney, @xingerxanger
MORE INSPIRATIONAL STORIES
Dorian RestaurantCredit: Dorian Restaurant
Fred's x Max Coen, as part of the Vivid Chef Series in Vivid Food.
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A line-up of globally renowned chefs will feature across Vivid Residence, Vivid Chef Series and Vivid Fire Kitchen as part of Vivid Sydney 2024
Tickets on sale from Friday 19 April at vividsydney.com
Imagery: here
From near and far, some of the hottest names in the culinary world will appear at Vivid Sydney this year as part of Vivid Food, embracing the festival’s 2024 theme, Humanity, and highlighting food as a fundamental part of the human experience, connecting us through the universal language of cuisine.
This year’s roster of renowned local and international culinary talent across Vivid Residence, Vivid Chef Series and Vivid Fire Kitchen will craft diverse, innovative menus that celebrate our shared heritage and the rich tapestry of global cultures present in Sydney’s food scene, through a series of dynamic events spanning intimate fine dining experiences through to communal fire-cooked feasts.
Vivid Residence will bring Latin America’s best female chef 2022, Manoella ‘Manu’ Buffara of Manu Restaurant, to take over Peter Conistis’ waterside venue, Ploós, while hatted restaurants Fred’s, AALIA and The Charles Brasserie & Bar will be among the top dining spots hosting Vivid Chef Series events and unmissable foodie collaborations with Michelin-starred chefs including Max Coen, Sally Abé and Ivan Brehm.
Vivid Fire Kitchen returns to the Vivid Food program in a new home on the Vivid Sydney Light Walk with the world’s best pitmasters and BBQ heroes including Christine Manfield; Firedoor's Lennox Hastie; Texas' Jess Pryles; Michelin-starred Swedish chef Niklas Ekstedt; LA’s Shalamar Lane and more, firing up The Goods Line with cooking demonstrations and tasty BBQ fare from tandoor and teppanyaki to First Nations tucker.
This announcement bolsters an already impressive Vivid Food 2024 program including the Our Shared Humanity series featuring leading Australian chefs; Atelier by Sofitel – A Culinary Connection; VividPlace Food Trail, A Culinary Canvas by Danielle Alvarez, the return of Aster Vivid 2024 and much more, all with a nod to Vivid Sydney, Humanity.
John Graham, Minister for Jobs and Tourism, Minister for the Arts, Minister for Music and the Night-time Economy, said:
“After a successful launch last year, I am pleased to see Vivid Food returning for a second year. Food is a cultural cornerstone, a fundamental part of the human experience, something we can all share and through that shared experience, enjoy new flavours and perspectives.
“Sydney has a wonderful food scene and Vivid Food is a great chance to explore that local scene. The Vivid Food program will range from headline experiences including the free BBQ demonstrations at Vivid Fire Kitchen. We invite Sydneysiders and visitors from across the globe to join us and enjoy one of Sydney’s great strengths.”
Vivid Sydney Festival Director and Vivid Food curator Gill Minervini said:
“Vivid Food captures the essence of our shared humanity through the global language of food. It’s a celebration of how cuisine can mirror the diversity of cultures, while also being a bridge that connects us all. We’re thrilled to announce the incredible local and international culinary talent joining the Vivid Food program across Vivid Residence, Vivid Chef Series and Vivid Fire Kitchen, who will bring to life the rich tapestry of Sydney’s food scene. Our diverse range of Vivid Food events, from intimate dining experiences to communal feasts, promises to bring people together and showcase the unique and collective culinary heritage that makes our city so special.”
Stephanie Calape, Vice President of Culinary Events at IMG, which produces Vivid Residence, Vivid Chef Series and Vivid Fire Kitchen in collaboration with Vivid Sydney, said:
“Following the phenomenal popularity of last year’s inaugural Vivid Food experiences, which saw Vivid Residence sell out within 48 hours, we are excited to bring back another incredible, diverse array of experiences and chefs for 2024. From world-renowned Chef Manoella Buffara’s one-of-a-kind fine dining Vivid Residence experience at Sydney’s Ploós, to Vivid Chef Series’ unmissable mash-up of Sydney and the world’s most exciting chefs, and the star-studded, immersive Vivid Fire Kitchen festival, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.”
Manoella Buffara Credit: Manoella Buffara
Manoella Buffara for Vivid Residence
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Manoella Buffara Credit: Manoella Buffara
Manoella Buffara for Vivid Residence
Vivid Residence
Culinary artistry meets social responsibility at Vivid Residence as Latin America’s Best Female Chef 2022, Manoella Buffara of Manu Restaurant, Brazil, which was awarded the The Flor de Caña Sustainable Restaurant Award 2023, graces Peter Conistis’ waterfront venue, Ploós, right in the heart of the Vivid Sydney Light Walk. Renowned for putting Curitiba on the global culinary map, Buffara’s approach integrates local produce with a commitment to environmental and social sustainability. During her Vivid Sydney residency, Buffara will showcase her pioneering approach to fine dining for the first time in Australia, celebrating New South Wales’ produce alongside her team and Ploós's esteemed chefs.
Chef Manoella Buffara said: “I’m incredibly excited to be part of Vivid Food in Sydney, an event that highlights the importance of cuisine in our culture. As the culinary capital of Australia, Sydney becomes a hub for vibrant flavour exchanges, bringing together top chefs and local producers to create memorable food experiences. In the heart of this bustling city, I will launch a pop-up that showcases my love for high-quality ingredients and authentic flavours. Sharing my cooking and stories with Sydney is a true honour, and I look forward to being part of this amazing food event that Vivid Food offers.”
Buffara and the team will create two menus, with a nine-course tasting menu for dinner, and a seven-course tasting menu for lunch. Tickets for the nine-course dinner menu are $420 per person, with the shorter lunch tasting menu costing $320, with bespoke beverage pairings also available. Vivid Residence will run from 24 May to 2 June 2024 offering a unique dining experience in the middle of the Vivid Sydney Light Walk. Tickets go on sale Friday 19 April at vividsydney.com/food.
Vivid Chef Series
The Vivid Chef Series will take over Sydney’s food scene, with the city’s best hatted restaurants and chefs pairing with some of the world’s most exciting culinary talent to bring the global contemporary culinary scene to Sydney for a limited number of nights.
The series of exclusive dinners will see local and international talent collaborate to create a never-to-be repeated menu that celebrates the best NSW produce and suppliers, imbued with global culinary sophistication.
London chef Sally Abé, who will take over The Charles Brasserie & Bar as part of Vivid Chef Series, said: “As a passionate chef, I am thrilled to be a part of the Vivid Food series in Sydney. It is an incredible platform that celebrates the intersection of art, culture, and gastronomy, allowing me to showcase my culinary skills in a vibrant and innovative setting. I am excited to immerse myself in the diverse food scene of Sydney and collaborate with talented chefs from around the world, creating unforgettable culinary experiences.”
Chef collaborations include:
- The Charles Brasserie & Bar x Sally Abé | Once comrades in arms on the other side of the globe whilst working at the three Michelin-starred restaurant The Ledbury in London, Sally Abé of The Pem will be reuniting with Billy Hannigan of Sydney’s hatted The Charles Brasserie & Bar, for three unmissable lunches and dinners. The menu will merge Hannigan’s European-inspired cooking style with Abe’s passion for nostalgic British cuisine. Joining them in the kitchen will be head pastry chef Rhiann Mead, who will add her signature sweet and innovative flair to the evening.
- AALIA x Ivan Brehm | Ivan Brehm of Michelin-starred Singapore restaurant, Nouri and Paul Farag of AALIA (two hatted Sydney restaurant, previously named Gourmet Traveller’s NSW restaurant of the year, 2023) will collaborate on two exclusive dinners that celebrate global food traditions. The dinners will blend AALIA’s expertise in Middle Eastern cuisine with Nouri’s celebration of global food traditions, for a menu that honours diversity of cultures paying tribute to the richness of our collective culinary heritage.
- Fred’s x Max Coen | Max Coen of London Michelin-starred Dorian and Ben Greeno of acclaimed Sydney restaurant, Fred’s will unite for four exclusive dinners that fuse their culinary philosophies. Chef Coen’s meticulous focus on ingredient-focussed wood-fired grilling will meet Greeno’s farm-to-table approach and hyper-seasonal cooking, for a menu that celebrates the beauty and artistry found in simplicity, all while utilising the best in local produce.
Tickets go on sale Friday 19 April at vividsydney.com/food.
The Charles Brasserie Credit: Steven Woodburn
The Charles Brasserie & Bar x Sally Abe, as part of the Vivid Chef Series in Vivid Food.
#feelnewsydney
The Charles Brasserie Credit: Steven Woodburn
The Charles Brasserie & Bar x Sally Abe, as part of the Vivid Chef Series in Vivid Food.
Fred's x Max Coen Credit: Steven Woodburn
Fred's x Max Coen, as part of the Vivid Chef Series in Vivid Food.
#feelnewsydney
Fred's x Max Coen Credit: Steven Woodburn
Fred's x Max Coen, as part of the Vivid Chef Series in Vivid Food.
Vivid Fire Kitchen
Vivid Fire Kitchen will light up its new home of The Goods Line across 23 nights, with the world’s best pitmasters and BBQ heroes joining forces with acclaimed local flame-focused restaurants for a festival of accessible fire demos, cooking sessions and exclusive BBQ dishes, with drinks, DJs and entertainment ablaze with Fire Sculptures, Flame Shooters and fire drums. Using the best NSW produce, a line-up of acclaimed local and international chefs will serve up a selection of flame-seared street food from around the globe, from tandoor and Argentinian Asado, First Nations tucker, alongside hearty sausages, tender brisket, charred eggplant, and aromatic satay, offering a nightly multicultural feast.
Guests will enjoy demonstrations combining local produce and raw-fire cooking from chef and restaurateur Lennox Hastie of Sydney’s two-hatted Firedoor who returns for Vivid Food 2024; one of Australia’s most celebrated chefs and culinary ambassadors Christine Manfield; reigning Seafood Champion in the World Food Championships, John McFadden; chef, restaurateur, proud Bundjalung woman and owner of Karkalla restaurant, Mindy Woods; Michelin starred chef of Sweden’s Ekstedt at The Yard, Niklas Ekstedt; Texas-based live fire cook, author, TV personality Jess Pryles; Pitmaster of LA-based My Father’s Barbeque, Shalamar Lane and more.
Australian chef and restaurateur Lennox Hastie who will appear at Vivid Fire Kitchen, said: “For me, food is an integral part of my creative expression because it engages all my senses and allows me to connect with ingredients and people on a deeply personal level. Vivid Food celebrates the rich and diverse nature of our food culture of Australia, reminding us that food is not just about sustenance but a powerful form of connection supporting community, evoking emotions, and creating lasting memories.”
Alongside BBQ offerings and the blazing atmosphere on the Vivid Sydney Light Walk, Vivid Sydney audiences will also be able to enjoy dishes from a curated selection of Sydney’s hottest dining concepts at Vivid Fire Kitchen, from casual eateries to acclaimed restaurants, including Messina Milk Bar, a culinary time capsule that transforms beloved chocolate bars and classic sweets into modern gelato delights. A menu highlight: a warm Milo fudge sundae, specially developed to warm you up on cold winter nights.
Vivid Residence, Vivid Chef Series and Vivid Fire Kitchen events are produced by IMG in collaboration with Vivid Sydney. IMG is the global events company behind the likes of Gourmet Escape, Taste Festivals, The Big Feastival, New York Fashion Week: The Shows and Frieze art fairs.
Vivid Food is part of Vivid Sydney, the Southern Hemisphere’s leading multi-artform festival, which will run from 24 May to 15 June 2024. Tickets for Vivid Residence and Vivid Chef Series will go on sale Friday 19 April via https://www.vividsydney.com/food. Vivid Fire Kitchen events, taking place at The Goods Line in Ultimo, are free for all to attend. Food and drink can be purchased on site.
For more information and tickets, visit vividsydney.com
Niklas Ekstedt Credit: Niklas Ekstedt
Niklas Ekstedt for Vivid Fire Kitchen 2024
#feelnewsydney
Niklas Ekstedt Credit: Niklas Ekstedt
Niklas Ekstedt for Vivid Fire Kitchen 2024
Vivid Fire Kitchen 2024 Credit: Destination NSW
Vivid Fire Kitchen 2024 as part of Vivid Food.
#feelnewsydney
Vivid Fire Kitchen 2024 Credit: Destination NSW
Vivid Fire Kitchen 2024 as part of Vivid Food.
Media contacts:
Hannah Fedeli, +61437166571 or hannah.f@thecru.agency
Shannon Blanchard, +61432543377 or shannon@thecru.agency
James Toovey, Vivid Sydney PR Manager, +61407828310 or james.toovey@dnsw.com.au
About Vivid Sydney
Vivid Sydney is the Southern Hemisphere’s leading multi-artform festival, celebrating creativity, innovation and technology, and transforming Sydney into a kaleidoscope of colour and events for 23 nights. Staged for its 14th year in 2024, Vivid Sydney will bring together mesmerising displays from the world’s brightest light artists, exhilarating live music performances, deep-dive discussions with thought leaders, and innovative experiences from food creatives. Vivid Sydney attracts domestic and international visitors, fuelling economic growth while fostering a cultural celebration across Light, Music, Ideas and Food. Vivid Sydney is owned, managed and produced by Destination NSW, the NSW Government’s tourism and major events agency. For more information and tickets, visit vividsydney.com
About Destination NSW
Destination NSW is the champion and voice for the visitor economy within the NSW Government. Spearheading a whole-of-government approach to visitor economy growth, Destination NSW influences and shapes the visitor economy through strategic research, policy and thought leadership, stakeholder engagement and consultation, commercial partnerships and investment in visitor experiences, business support, marketing and events. Destination NSW is also the major investor in Business Events Sydney (BESydney) for the purpose of securing more international and domestic conventions, incentive travel reward programs, corporate events and exhibitions.
About IMG
IMG is a global sports, events and representation company. It is a leader in rights management, multi-channel content production and distribution, consultancy and fan engagement; owns, produces and commercially represents hundreds of live events and experiences; and manages licensing programs for the world’s best-known brands and trademarks. IMG is a subsidiary of Endeavor, a global sports and entertainment company.