Aiden Darling Harbour, PyrmontCredit: Aiden Darling Harbour
Aiden Darling Harbour, The Balcony Room, Pyrmont.
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Sydney’s hospitality scene gets a slew of sophisticated new bars and restaurants, while new regional retreats across NSW bring contemporary luxe, and an artisanal food festival celebrates local producers.
NEW STAYS
Harbourside Haven
A 1930s Art Deco building has been given a new life as a glamourous boutique hotel — Aiden Darling Harbour. The eight-storey Pyrmont hotel is slated to open in December and will feature 88 smart rooms — each with a pillow menu, customisable lighting, meditation and white noise channels plus more.
Farm luxe
Working Bathurst sheep farm Wilga Station has opened their luxurious Shearers Hall, a former shearing hub transformed into a family-friendly five-bedroom country retreat. For more romantic stays, The Farmer’s Hut is an adults-only two-person cabin with fireplace, designer bathroom and sprawling valley views.
Mountain magic
Two new private cabins have opened their doors to holidaymakers in the Blue Mountains – Logan Brae Retreats' Woodland Cabin and Hilltop Cabin are tucked away in secluded locations on Mount Kanimbla. The romantic cabins feature wood fires, stone baths and sweeping views of the escarpment, while the family-friendly Homestead is slated to open in 2022.
Culinary cool on the Central Coast
With Hamptons vibes and classic coastal inspiration, newly renovated The Beachcomber Hotel and Resort, known affectionately as ‘The Beachie’, in Toukley now also offers a variety of all-day eats and drinks. The Central Coast property has also revived its iconic Pelican Restaurant, a semi fine diner serving the freshest local seafood.
Back to nature
A new luxury glamping experience has zipped open its tent flaps in Mudgee, Evamor Valley. Set upon 32 hectares of farmland and nestles on the Cudgegong River, the immersive eco tents feature a plush king bed, private kitchenette, en suite, air-conditioning, barbecue and more.
Surf’s up in Yamba
Modern luxe has rolled onto Yamba’s shores with the arrival of The Surf, Yamba’s first boutique hotel. The 12 architecturally designed rooms feature terazzo floors, timber furnishings, Leif organic products and ocean-view balconies, with the hotel also offering a sparkling rooftop plunge pool.
The Surf, Yamba Credit: Elise Hassey
The Surf is Yamba’s first boutique hotel.
#feelnew #feelnsw
The Surf, Yamba Credit: Elise Hassey
The Surf is Yamba’s first boutique hotel.
Bay Nine Omakase, The Rocks Credit: Steve Woodburn
Yuan-yaki imperadore, Bay Nine Omakase.
#feelnew #ilovesydney
Bay Nine Omakase, The Rocks Credit: Steve Woodburn
Yuan-yaki imperadore, Bay Nine Omakase.
NEW FOOD, DRINK AND ENTERTAINMENT
Shell House is here
A new era of hospitality has landed at Sydney’s historic Menzies Hotel, with new dining star Shell House set to open its new restaurant and sky bar. Ground-floor Menzies Bar & Bistro, a deluxe vintage-style bar with a menu by Shell House’s executive chef Joel Bickford (ex-Aria), is already open in the multi-level heritage building.
Fall in love with Lola’s
A celebration of the Mediterranean has arrived in Bondi: Lola’s serves up a South European-inspired menu with flavours from Italy, Spain and Greece. Owners Marco Ambrosino (Fratelli Paradiso, 10 William St) and Manny Spinola (Tea Room QVB), aim to show a sophisticated side to Bondi, with moody interiors and an elegant, intimate bar space.
Omakase at the Rocks
Bay Nine Omakase opens this year, the newest addition to the waterfront Campbells Cove precinct in The Rocks. Head chef Tomohiro Marshall Oguro will serve elegant Japanese-inspired plates at its 10-seat omakase counter, as well as a set menu to an intimate 30-seat restaurant area.
The Redfern reopens
After a stylish renovation, Redfern Street’s 100-year-old neighbourhood pub has reopened as The Redfern, with a welcoming new public bar on ground level and eclectic cocktail and live music lounge, Misfits, upstairs.
The Redfern, Redfern Credit: The Redfern
The Redfern has been returned to its former glory and re-named after its home suburb.
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The Redfern, Redfern Credit: The Redfern
The Redfern has been returned to its former glory and re-named after its home suburb.
Brandy Alexander at Frank Mac’s, The Rocks Credit: Steven Woodburn
Gin and cocktail bar, Frank Mac’s, in The Rocks, offers one of the biggest botanical collections in Sydney.
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Brandy Alexander at Frank Mac’s, The Rocks Credit: Steven Woodburn
Gin and cocktail bar, Frank Mac’s, in The Rocks, offers one of the biggest botanical collections in Sydney.
Sydney’s newest gin joint
Opened by the same team behind The Doss House, Frank Mac’s is the newest cocktail bar in The Rocks, serving more than 100 kinds of gin behind their five-metre bar. The vintage-style speakeasy is housed within a two-storey 1840s sandstone and includes a courtyard and private room.
Booze in Bondi
Bondi’s first gin distillery has launched in the heart of the beachside suburb – Bondi Liquor Co. distils three styles of gins on site, original dry gin, citrus gin and pink gin. The venue is also open to the public, with a stylish bar and al fresco area offering tastings, cocktails, burgers and bar snacks.
Alexandria’s new beer garden
Merivale have launched their latest eatery, Backyard at The Alex, an outdoor space in the former Alexandria Hotel. A series of Sydney’s best food trucks will serve up the food, while DJs and live music will provide entertainment in the family- and dog-friendly space.
Gosford’s new go-to
Just in time for summer days by the water, Drifter’s Wharf opens in Gosford in December. Run by the same team behind Terrigal’s Mumbo Jumbo’s and Avoca’s Shady Palms, this restaurant, bar and live music venue offers stunning views of Brisbane Waters.
NEW EXPERIENCES
Feast the Tweed
A full weekend featuring local Northern Rivers food and beverage producers will be celebrated at the fifth Tweed Artisan Food Weekend from 18 to 21 November. There’ll be pop-up picnics, long-table brunches, river cruises and chances to meet the makers and learn about native foods from traditional owners.
Girl From the North Country Credit: Original West End photography by Manuel Harlan, Alastair Muir, Tristram Kenton
Sydney to launch Australian premiere of Girl From the North Country.
#feelnew #ilovesydney
Girl From the North Country Credit: Original West End photography by Manuel Harlan, Alastair Muir, Tristram Kenton
Sydney to launch Australian premiere of Girl From the North Country.
True Grit 2019, Lower Portland Credit: Destination NSW
Competitors take on the military style obstacle challenges in the 2019 True Grit event, Lower Portland.
#feelnew #ilovesydney
True Grit 2019, Lower Portland Credit: Destination NSW
Competitors take on the military style obstacle challenges in the 2019 True Grit event, Lower Portland.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Come From Away | Capitol Theatre, Sydney
Now until 9 January, 2022
On stage at Sydney’s Capitol Theatre, The Tony® and Olivier award-winning musical Come From Away tells the remarkable true story of thousands of stranded passengers and the small town in Canada that welcomed them all.
Hamilton | Sydney Lyric Theatre
Now until 27 February, 2022
Cultural phenomenon Hamilton is back on its Sydney stage, blending Broadway theatre with hip hop, jazz and R&B to tell a story of American history. Its Australian cast brings an unmissable performance and a revolutionary moment in theatre.
Jagged Little Pill | Theatre Royal Sydney
2-19 December
Tony® award-nominated Broadway rock musical, Jagged Little Pill, takes the stage at Theatre Royal Sydney in December. Relive Alanis Morissette’s epic 1995 album, including beloved hits such as You Oughta Know and Ironic with music artist Natalie Bassingthwaighte leading the Australian cast.
Australia Sail Grand Prix | Sydney Presented by KPMG | Sydney Harbour
17-18 December
The seventh event of SailGP season 2 will return to Sydney Harbour, with heart-stopping racing and a range of free and ticketed experiences on and off the water.
Girl From the North Country | Theatre Royal Sydney
From 5 January, 2022
On stage at Theatre Royal Sydney as part of Sydney Festival, this joyful musical reimagines the songs of Bob Dylan through a story of American life set in 1930s Minnesota. Tickets are on sale now.
Tamworth Country Music Festival | Tamworth
14-23 January, 2022
The 50th anniversary of Australia’s biggest country music festival will be an unmissable event, with the line-up including John Williamson, Beccy Cole, Kasey Chambers, Troy Cassar-Daley – all part of more than 2800 scheduled events.
True Grit | Lower Portland
5 March, 2022
With 30 obstacles to navigate over 10 kilometres, this military-inspired race runs through grasslands, temperate rainforest, dense swamps, granite escarpments and towering sandstone cliffs on farmland on the Hawkesbury River.
More News
Vivid Sydney 2024Credit: Destination NSW
The 'Nest' installation at the Stargazer Lawn, Barangaroo during Vivid 2024. Artist: Leila Jeffreys & Melvin J. Montalban. An expansive circular structure welcomes you to bear witness to the ritualistic mating dance of the Brolga, one of only two species of crane native to Australia. Projected onto a transparent surface, the huge bird apparitions appear to float in the air and are visible from both out and inside the Nest.
#feelnewsydney #vividsydney
Calling All Dreamers: Vivid Sydney Wants You
Vivid Sydney 2024 Credit: Destination NSW
#feelnewsydney #vividsydney
Vivid Sydney, the Southern Hemisphere’s largest multi-artform festival, is calling on the best creative minds to submit ideas for next year’s event.
Vivid Sydney 2025 will take place from Friday 23 May to Saturday 14 June 2025, with a program centred around the theme of Vivid Sydney, Dream.
Artists, musicians, thought leaders and food creatives are encouraged to submit Expressions of Interest (EOI) for the opportunity to be part of Australia’s largest event and showcase their work to a mass audience across the festival pillars of Light, Music, Ideas and Food.
Destination NSW CEO Steve Cox said: “Since 2009, Vivid Sydney has grown to become Sydney’s vibrant cultural showpiece, driving significant visitation to Sydney and regional NSW and positioning our state as the arts and creative industries capital of the Asia Pacific.
“Vivid Sydney is more than a light show, it is Sydney’s living legacy that captures imaginations and shares with visitors and locals alike the very best talent from our creative, entertainment and hospitality industries.
“I encourage the brightest talents to join Destination NSW in creating an event that elevates the Harbour City as the Asia Pacific’s leader in world-class cultural experiences.”
Vivid Sydney 2024 Credit: Destination NSW
Patrons enjoying a night out at Machine Hall during Vivid 2024
#feelnewsydney #vividsydney
Vivid Sydney 2024 Credit: Destination NSW
Patrons enjoying a night out at Machine Hall during Vivid 2024
Vivid Sydney Festival Director Gill Minervini said: “Vivid Sydney 2025 is pushing the creative boundaries across our theme of “Dream” to deliver another unforgettable global celebration.
“Dreaming is something we all do. It’s as old as time and as universal as life itself. Dreams don’t discriminate – they are borderless, ageless and endless. They can be personal or public. When shared, our dreams can become a movement. They can inspire, motivate, spark excitement and connection.
“The whole world dreams, it is something we have in common, something that unites us. Our human story is embedded in dreams, they help explain our existence and our past.
“We want the very best in homegrown talent to be part of our vibrant Vivid Sydney event program, with a unique opportunity to foster community connection, spark imagination and showcase the multitude of ways creativity can enrich our lives.
“Each year Vivid Sydney aims to deliver unparalleled artistic brilliance and we look forward to welcoming the inspirations within our community that will help shape Vivid Sydney 2025 into a show-stopping cultural phenomenon.”
The Vivid Sydney EOI outlines opportunities for artists, designers, creative industry professionals, equipment suppliers, architects, engineers, promoters, restaurants, event companies, chefs, producers and educational institutions to present their ideas, designs, concepts and interest for inclusion in the annual event.
Light and Cross Art Form EOIs will close on Monday 2 September 2024 with Ideas, Music and Food closing on Friday 27 September 2024.
This year’s Vivid Sydney attracted 2.42 million attendees, making it the third largest on record. Highlights included a record-breaking opening night and the busiest single night in the festival’s history on Sunday 9 June.
While Vivid Sydney 2024 attracted millions of people from across Australia and the globe, it also had a profound impact on the creative minds who helped bring the event to life, including Sydney’s retail, hospitality and accommodation sectors.
Vivid Sydney 2024 Credit: Destination NSW
Shifting Perspectives at Walsh Bay Arts Precinct for Vivid Ideas during Vivid Sydney 2024
#feelnewsydney #vividsydney
Vivid Sydney 2024 Credit: Destination NSW
Shifting Perspectives at Walsh Bay Arts Precinct for Vivid Ideas during Vivid Sydney 2024
Leila Jeffreys the artist behind popular Vivid Light 2024 installation Nest said: “Thank you to Festival Director Gill Minervini and all at Vivid Sydney for giving me and my artistic collaborator Melvin J. Montalban the opportunity to create art on a scale that we could not have achieved on our own.
“I visited Nest many times throughout the festival and was always moved to see people from all walks of life and ages stand together to witness the courtship dance of the Brolga, a moment where we all felt the link between the natural world and the human journey.”
Tekno Train creator and composer Paul Mac said: “When I set out to create Tekno Train I wanted to make an experience that fused my love of techno and trains with lights and to share this joy with as many people as possible. The positive reactions I have received from people on the train, as well as the drivers, guards, and random folks on social media has absolutely blown me away.
“Vivid Sydney 2024 has been an unexpected career highlight, and I am forever grateful to everyone who helped bring this together.”
Club Broadway MC & Music Producer DJ Dan Murphy said: “Bringing our Club Broadway show to a Vivid Sydney audience has been an absolute joy. We loved making our show accessible to a whole new audience who love the world of musical theatre.
“Vivid Sydney is such an amazing and important festival for our city, and we were thrilled to be on the program. From old to young, we had them all on the dancefloor for Club Broadway at Tumbalong Park. The night was absolutely magical and a great way to celebrate our community.”
Vivid Sydney 2024 Credit: Destination NSW
Sex Work; A Social History Walking Tour at Elizabeth Bay for Vivid Ideas during Vivid Sydney 2024. This fascinating walking tour is an invitation to see the area and profession in a new light. Led by writer, performer and Kings Cross local Vashti Hughes and the Inner City Legal Centre's Managing Solicitor Katie Green, you will be immersed in the sights, history and contemporary challenges of sex work in Australia's most famous redlight district.
#feelnewsydney #vividsydney
Vivid Sydney 2024 Credit: Destination NSW
Sex Work; A Social History Walking Tour at Elizabeth Bay for Vivid Ideas during Vivid Sydney 2024. This fascinating walking tour is an invitation to see the area and profession in a new light. Led by writer, performer and Kings Cross local Vashti Hughes and the Inner City Legal Centre's Managing Solicitor Katie Green, you will be immersed in the sights, history and contemporary challenges of sex work in Australia's most famous redlight district.
Service and Creative Skills Australia (the Jobs and Skills Council for Arts, Personal Services, Retail, Tourism and Hospitality) CEO Natalie Turmine said: “Vivid Sydney showcases brilliantly our talented and vibrant creative arts, tourism and hospitality workforce, demonstrating the wealth of exciting career opportunities available in this sector.
“Thank you to all the creative artists, technicians, performers, hospitality staff and event organisers for delivering another successful Vivid Sydney.”
Plate it Forward CEO and restaurateur Shaun Christie-David said: “Vivid Sydney shows the diversity of Sydney, shining a positive light on our city, culture and produce. As a social enterprise hospitality group, it was a privilege to partner with Vivid Sydney to bring the 2024 festival theme humanity to life through food. Food is all about sharing, love, respect and community.
“There is so much pride, joy and power that can be found in food, it is a platform to celebrate culture, make meaningful connections and create jobs. Through working with Vivid Food and selling more than 1000 tacos, more than 1500 meals will be donated to community kitchens for people in need.”
Tourism & Transport Forum CEO Margy Osmond said: “Between the lights, the music, the ideas, the food and the incredible vibe…Vivid Sydney has once again delivered a spectacular event for visitors and locals of all ages, with the big winners being local tourism and hospitality operators.”
“The bright lights of Vivid Sydney have showcased first-class hospitality, creativity and our beloved Sydney CBD and Harbour icons to audiences across the globe, demonstrating the value and huge potential of this event and the need to continue investing in world class events.”
Vivid Sydney 2024 Credit: Destination NSW
Couple enjoying the Fire Kitchen at The Goods Line during Vivid 2024. It's back and blazing brighter than ever. Vivid Fire Kitchen returns, igniting its new home at The Goods Line with flame-seared street food from around the globe. Come and enjoy the universal language of BBQ, the best NSW produce and the diversity of Sydney's food scene as we gather round the fire once again.
#feelnewsydney #vividsydney
Vivid Sydney 2024 Credit: Destination NSW
Couple enjoying the Fire Kitchen at The Goods Line during Vivid 2024. It's back and blazing brighter than ever. Vivid Fire Kitchen returns, igniting its new home at The Goods Line with flame-seared street food from around the globe. Come and enjoy the universal language of BBQ, the best NSW produce and the diversity of Sydney's food scene as we gather round the fire once again.
Accommodation Australia’s Michael Johnson said: “Once again, the juggernaut that is Vivid Sydney illuminated the city, shining a light on the beauty and culture of the city.
“Over the course of the event, hotels in the CBD enjoyed 75 per cent occupancy with bookings reaching as high as 90 per cent on weekends. There is no denying major events such as Vivid Sydney, that have the capacity to draw a high level of overnight visitation in the middle of winter, create an incredible boost for the city’s visitor economy.”
Vivid Sydney is owned, managed and produced by Destination NSW, the NSW Government’s tourism and major events agency.
For more information and to submit an Expression of Interest for Vivid Sydney 2025, go to www.vividsydney.com