events calendar - Visit NSW

SYDNEY & NSW

EVENTS CALENDAR SEPTEMBER 2013 – JUNE 2014

On behalf of the NSW Government, I am proud to present the 2013–2014 Sydney and NSW Events Calendar. With a world-class range of activities and entertainment on offer, it’s easy to see why NSW and Sydney are Australia’s premier tourism and major events destinations.

sydney.com | visitnsw.com

The Lion King. Photo: Joan Marcus © Disney

The NSW Government is committed to securing major sporting and cultural events that appeal to a variety of audiences and the event line-up from September 2013 to June 2014 is no different. From the highly-anticipated return of The Lion King, through to Sydney’s world-renowned New Year’s Eve fireworks, the World Rally in Coffs Harbour and the Deni Ute Muster in Deniliquin – there is something for everyone across every location and season in NSW. This year, we also have a number of ‘firsts’ for NSW, including the Corroboree Indigenous Festival, the Australian Garden Show

Sydney, the Australian Premiere of Monster Jam in Western Sydney, the Opening Series of the Major League Baseball and Baz Luhrmann’s World Musical Premiere of Strictly Ballroom. The Sydney and NSW Events Calendar presents some of the very best that this State has to offer and I encourage you to experience as many events as possible!

George Souris MP Minister for Tourism and Major Events

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CONTENTS SYDNEY AND NSW HIGHLIGHT EVENTS 2013-2014

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CONNECT WITH SYDNEY

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facebook.com/seesydney

OCTOBER 2013

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twitter.com/sydney_sider

NOVEMBER 2013

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@seesydney or #sydney

DECEMBER 2013

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sydney.com

JANUARY 2014

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FEBRUARY 2014

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MARCH 2014

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facebook.com/visitnsw

APRIL 2014

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twitter.com/nswtips

MAY 2014

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@visitnsw or #nswgetaways

JUNE 2014

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visitnsw.com

DISCOVER REGIONAL NSW

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EXPERIENCE THE HIGHLIGHTS OF SYDNEY AND SURROUNDS

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SEPTEMBER 2013

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CONNECT WITH REGIONAL NSW

For full disclaimer please see outside back cover

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SYDNEY AND NSW HIGHLIGHT EVENTS SEPTEMBER 2013

SEPTEMBER 2013

OCTOBER 2013

OCTOBER 2013

Australian Garden Show Sydney Location Centennial Park, Sydney Date 5 – 8 September

Rally Australia Location Coffs Coast Date 12 – 15 September

RAN International Fleet Review Sydney Location Sydney Harbour Date 3 – 11 October

Deniliquin Ute Muster Location Plains of Deniliquin Date 4 – 5 October

OCTOBER 2013

OCTOBER 2013

NOVEMBER 2013

NOVEMBER 2013

V8 Supercars Supercheap Auto Bathurst 1000 Location Mt Panorama, Bathurst Date 10 – 13 October

Monster Jam Location ANZ Stadium, Sydney Olympic Park Date 19 October

Newton’s Nation Location Newcastle Date 2 – 3 November

Sydney International Art Series Location Art Gallery of NSW & Museum of Contemporary Art Australia, Sydney Date 8 November 2013 – 23 February 2014

DECEMBER 2013

DECEMBER 2013

JANUARY 2014

JANUARY 2014

The Lion King – Season Premiere Location The Capitol Theatre, Sydney Date From 12 December

Sydney New Year’s Eve Location Sydney Harbour Date 31 December

Parkes Elvis Festival Location Parkes Date 9 – 12 January

Tamworth Country Music Festival Location Tamworth Date 17 – 26 January

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SYDNEY AND NSW HIGHLIGHT EVENTS FEBRUARY 2014

FEBRUARY 2014

MARCH 2014

MARCH 2014

Hurley Australian Open of Surfing Location Manly Beach, Sydney Date 8 – 16 February

Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Location Sydney Date 9 February – 2 March

Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour – Madama Butterfly Location The Royal Botanic Garden, Sydney Date 21 March – 13 April

Major League Baseball: LA Dodgers v Arizona Diamondbacks Location Sydney Cricket Ground Date 22 – 23 March

APRIL 2014

APRIL 2014

APRIL 2014

APRIL 2014

Orange F.O.O.D Week Location Orange Date 4 – 13 April

Sail Port Stephens Location Port Stephens Date 11 – 16 April

Bluesfest Byron Bay – 25th Anniversary Location Byron Bay Date 17 – 21 April

Baz Luhrmann’s Strictly Ballroom the Musical – Global Premiere Location Sydney Lyric, The Star Date From April

APRIL 2014

MAY 2014

MAY 2014

MAY 2014

Sydney Royal Easter Show Location Sydney Showground Date 10 – 23 April

2014 Toyota IRONMAN Australia Port Macquarie Location Port Macquarie Date 4 May

Vivid Sydney Location Venues across Sydney Date 23 May – 9 June

2014 NCHA Futurity Location Tamworth Date 29 May – 8 June

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Vikings – Beyond the Legend Discover how Vikings really lived through hundreds of rare objects. Location Australian National Maritime Museum, Sydney Date 19 September – 2 February

Toast Urunga Indulge at the Coffs Coast’s biggest food-themed festival. Location Urunga Date 1 September

Art & About Sydney Experience Sydney through art in unusual places. Location Venues across Sydney Date 20 September – 20 October

Australian Garden Show Sydney 2013 Celebrating Australia’s passion for gardens and outdoor spaces. Location Centennial Park, Sydney Date 5 – 8 September Sample Food Festival Northern NSW Showcasing the region’s finest food producers & restaurants. Location Bangalow Date 7 September South Pacific A truly extraordinary production of this classic musical. Location Sydney Opera House Date 10 – 27 September

Tulip Time Festival One of Australia’s most beautiful floral festivals. Location Corbett Gardens, Bowral Date 24 September – 7 October 8 sydney.com | visitnsw.com

Coates Hire Rally Australia Round 10 of the prestigious FIA World Rally Championships. Location Coffs Coast Date 12 – 15 September

NSW Motor Racing Championship Featuring some of the best racing that NSW has to offer. Location Sydney Motorsport Park Date 21 – 22 September

SEPTEMBER 2013

Sydney Moderns: art for a new world An artistic celebration of modern Sydney life. Location Art Gallery of NSW, Sydney Date Until 7 October

WUPA@Wanaruah Follow the Aboriginal Art Trail through 7 locations across the wine region. Location Pokolbin Date 21 September – 31 October Blackmores Sydney Running Festival Four exciting events, including the Sydney marathon, to cater for all running abilities. Location Milsons Point, Sydney Date 22 September

NSW IS HOME TO 189 NATIONAL PARKS AND 18 AQUATIC PROTECTED AREAS

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Australian World Orchestra 2013 Australia’s finest classical musicians from home and abroad. Location Sydney Opera House Date 3 October RAN International Fleet Review Sydney 2013 A spectacular program of events celebrating the centenary of the Royal Australian Navy. Location Sydney Harbour Date 3 – 11 October Deniliquin Ute Muster Two days of nonstop entertainment live on the Plains. Location Plains of Deniliquin Date 4 – 5 October

NRL Telstra Premiership Grand Final Watch the NRL heavyweights battle it out for the top spot. Location ANZ Stadium, Sydney Olympic Park Date 6 October Temptation Reloaded Featuring Shahrukh Khan, one of Bollywood’s biggest film stars. Location Allphones Arena, Sydney Olympic Park Date 7 October V8 Supercars Supercheap Auto Bathurst 1000 Australia’s biggest motorsport event. Location Mt Panorama, Bathurst Date 10 – 13 October

Murrumbateman Moving Feast The region’s best wine and food. Location Murrumbateman Date 4 – 7 October

Spirit of the Land Lockhart Festival Includes Australia’s only National Farm Art Sculpture Awards. Location Lockhart Date 12 – 13 October

Parramasala A vibrant and entertaining festival of music, dance and theatre. Location Parramatta Date 4 – 7 October

Darling Harbour Fiesta A huge line-up of bold Latin American performers. Location Darling Harbour Date 12 – 13 October

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International Netball Test Series: Australian Diamonds v Malawi Queens Catch some of the world’s greatest players in action. Location WIN Entertainment Centre, Wollongong Date 16 October

OCTOBER 2013

Good Food Month A month long celebration of extraordinary food experiences. Location Venues across Sydney Date 1 – 31 October

2013 WILL MARK THE 4TH YEAR OF THE NRL GRAND FINAL WEEK BEING HELD EXCLUSIVELY IN NSW

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Tomas Misura, splash, Sculpture by the Sea, Bondi 2011 Photo Matthew Stanton

Zoo Grooves Music events held in the picturesque grounds of the Zoo. Location Taronga Western Plains Zoo, Dubbo Date 13, 20, 27 October Orange Wine Week Celebrating the cool climate wines from the Orange region. Location Orange Date 17 – 27 October The Wingham Akoostik Music Festival A celebration of original music. Location Wingham Date 18 – 20 October Albury Applause and Buskers Festival Enjoy a day of free entertainment. Location Albury Date 19 October Monster Jam The most intense motorsport experience on the planet. Location ANZ Stadium, Sydney Olympic Park Date 19 October Batlow Apple Blossom Festival Enjoy great food, markets, art, photography and collectibles. Location Batlow Date 19 October


IRONMAN 70.3 Port Macquarie Athletes battle it out in a massive test of endurance. Location Port Macquarie Date 20 October Chromefest A tribute to classics, hot rods and rockabilly. Location The Entrance Date 25 – 27 October CoastOut Festival The Coffs Coast’s annual Gay, Lesbian and friends festival. Location Coffs Harbour Date 25 – 27 October

OCTOBER 2013

Sculpture by the Sea The 17th annual free-to-the-public outdoor sculpture exhibition. Location Bondi to Tamarama Coastal Walk Date 24 October – 10 November

Be the Influence Australian Boardriders Battle Australia’s biggest grassroots boardriding event. Location Forster Date 26 – 27 October Eden Whale Festival All things whale collide for a week-long celebration. Location Eden Date 26 October – 3 November Cancer Council NSW Seven Bridges Walk Put on your walking shoes and raise money for a great cause. Location Sydney Date 27 October

AROUND 500,000 PEOPLE VISIT SCULPTURE BY THE SEA DURING ITS ANNUAL 3 WEEK EXHIBITION

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Yoko Ono, Cut Piece, 1964, performed by the artist, March 21, 1965, Carnegie Recital Hall, New York, image courtesy and © the artist. Photograph: Minoru Niizuma

Tastes at the Bay Festival Enjoy gourmet food, wine and boutique beer. Location Nelson Bay Foreshore Date 1 – 3 November

Sculpture in the Vineyards A free sculpture exhibition along the Wollombi Valley Wine Trail. Location Wollombi Date 2 November – 1 December

Mildura Jazz Food and Wine Festival Five days of round-the-clock jazz entertainment, food and wine. Location Mildura Date 1 – 5 November

Sydney International Art Series: America – painting a nation 200 years of American history, its landscape and people. Location Art Gallery of NSW, Sydney Date 8 November – 9 February

Warbirds Downunder 2013 Airshow See aircraft ranging from antiques to military. Location Temora Date 2 November Newton’s Nation 2 days of adrenalin pumping action sports. Location Newcastle Date 2 – 3 November Bitter and Twisted International Boutique Beer Festival A celebration of all things music, food and beer. Location Maitland Gaol Date 2 – 3 November

NOVEMBER 2013

Sydney International Art Series: War Is Over! (if you want it) – Yoko Ono Five decades of work by the legendary artist, musician and activist. Location Museum of Contemporary Art Australia, Sydney Date 15 November –23 February

Brisbane Water Oyster Festival Bringing together food, wine and family entertainment. Location Ettalong Beach Date 10 November The Stampede Australia’s leading obstacle course series. Location Glenworth Valley Date 16 – 17 November The Carnival of Miracles A series of events leading up to the SEW Eurodrive Miracle Mile. Location Tabcorp Park, Menangle Date 16 – 30 November

SINCE LAUNCHING IN 2010, OVER 1 MILLION PEOPLE HAVE ATTENDED A SYDNEY INTERNATIONAL ART SERIES EXHIBITION

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Tweed Foodie Fest A unique culinary experience located in the heart of the Tweed hinterland. Location Murwillumbah Date 27 November – 1 December

The 33rd Annual Merimbula Classic A celebration of wind and waves for wave sailors, kite surfers and stand up paddle surfers. Location Merimbula Date 21 – 24 November

Emirates Australian Open Golf Championship The world’s best battle to claim Australian golf’s most prized trophy. Location The Royal Sydney Golf Club Date 28 November – 1 December

PBR Tamworth Invitational Experience the brutal power of a bull up close at this rodeo. Location Tamworth East Date 23 November

Lithgow Flash Gift A professional athletics carnival with athletes from all over Australia. Location Lithgow Date 30 November

Rob Guest Endowment Gala Concert 2013 See the culmination of a year-long search for the next big name in musical theatre. Location Sydney Lyric, The Star Date 25 November

Special Olympics 2013 Asia Pacific Games Bringing together 32 nations from across the Asia Pacific region. Location Newcastle and Hunter Region Date 30 November – 7 December

ARIA Week and ARIA Awards Celebrating the best in Australian music. Location Venues across Sydney Date November

Australian Junior Surfing Titles Featuring more than 200 of Australia’s best junior surfers. Location Kiama Date 30 November – 7 December

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NSW HAS MORE HATTED RESTAURANTS THAN ANY OTHER AUSTRALIAN STATE

Corroboree Sydney The largest annual national Indigenous arts and cultural festival in Australia. Location Venues across Sydney Date 14 – 24 November

NOVEMBER 2013

The Mullum Music Festival Held in the little town of Mullumbimby tucked in the hills behind Byron Bay. Location Mullumbimby Date 21 – 24 November


Lord Howe Island Art Trail Visit five studios and talk with local artists. Location Lord Howe Island Date 1 – 6 December

Carols in the Caves The dramatic setting provides an unforgettable experience. Location Jenolan Caves Date 14 December

National Cherry Festival A three day celebration including quirky and colourful festivities. Location Young Date 6 – 8 December

Jack Newton Celebrity Classic Celebrities and golfing pros rub shoulders in a pro-am charity tournament. Location Cypress Lakes Resort, Hunter Valley Date 17 – 18 December

V8 Supercars Sydney 500 The 2013 grand final showdown. Location Sydney Olympic Park Date 6 – 8 December Australian Beach Soccer Cup Two days of international competition and entertainment. Location Wollongong Date 7 – 8 December

Image courtesy of City of Sydney

Tropfest Enjoy the world’s largest short film festival. Location Centennial Park, Sydney Date 8 December


The Lion King Disney’s landmark musical event will redefine your expectations of theatre. Location The Capitol Theatre, Sydney Date From 12 December

DECEMBER 2013

Sydney New Year’s Eve Sydney welcomes the New Year with 9pm family and midnight fireworks. Location Sydney Harbour Date 31 December

Woolworths Carols in the Domain Australia’s largest free Christmas concert. Location The Domain, Sydney Date 21 December Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race An iconic part of Australia’s Summer. Location Sydney Harbour Date 26 December Jindabyne’s Snowy Mountains Muster A wide variety of bush festival entertainment. Location Jindabyne Date 29 – 31 December

AN ESTIMATED 1 BILLION PEOPLE AROUND THE WORLD WATCH THE SYDNEY NEW YEAR’S EVE MIDNIGHT FIREWORKS

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Commonwealth Bank Sydney Ashes Test Match – Australia v England Explosive action as both sides play for the urn. Location Sydney Cricket Ground Date 3 – 7 January Apia International Sydney Come and experience Sydney’s Summer tennis party. Location Sydney Olympic Park Tennis Centre Date 5 – 11 January Sydney Festival One of the world’s most wonderful Summer festivals! Location Venues across Sydney Date 9 – 26 January Tastes of the World Beer Festival A chance to sample varieties of beer, wine and food. Location Newcastle Date 11 – 12 January 3rd AACTA Awards Celebrating the best of Australia’s film and television industry. Location Sydney Date January Tamworth Country Music Festival Australia’s largest music festival. Location Tamworth Date 17 – 26 January


The Big Issue Street Football Festival Held on an amazing purposebuilt floating pitch. Location Darling Harbour, Sydney Date 17 – 27 January Sydney Chinese New Year Festival Celebrate with cultural events, markets and the Twilight Parade. Location Venues across Sydney Date 24 January – 9 February

JANUARY 2014

Parkes Elvis Festival Hip-swivelling Elvis impersonators convene for a dazzling array of events. Location Parkes Date 9 – 12 January

Be the Influence Australian Boardriders Battle Australia’s biggest grassroots boardriding event. Location Cronulla Beach Date 25 – 26 January Australia Day 2014 Music, events and plenty of free fun for the family. Location Venues across NSW Date 26 January Yabun Australia’s largest single-day Indigenous festival. Location Victoria Park, Sydney Date 26 January 20th Hobie 16 World Championships Jervis Bay An iconic international catamaran championship. Location Huskisson Date 31 January – 15 February

THE CITY OF SYDNEY’S CHINESE NEW YEAR FESTIVAL IS THE LARGEST OUTSIDE OF ASIA

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Taronga Wild! Rhinos A huge herd of wildly colourful rhino sculptures charge into town. Location Venues across NSW Date 2 February – 28 April

Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras The world’s most spectacular celebration of diversity. Location Venues across Sydney Date Festival: 9 February – 2 March Parade and Party: 1 March

Liqui-Moly Bathurst 12 Hour The ultimate Aussie endurance race. Location Mt Panorama, Bathurst Date 7 – 9 February

Australian Surfing Awards Recognising those who help develop surfing in Australia. Location International College of Management, Sydney Date 13 February

Club Marine Southern 80 The world’s largest water ski race. Location Murray River: Torrumbarry to Echuca-Moama Date 7 – 9 February Navy Australian Surf Rowers Open An adrenalin filled display of teamwork and fitness. Location Newcastle Date 8 – 10 February

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Joel Parkinson – credit Grant Sproule Red Monkey

Hurley Australian Open of Surfing A unique beach, lifestyle, sports and music festival. Location Manly Beach, Sydney Date 8 – 16 February

FEBRUARY 2014

KFC Twenty20 International – Australia v England Packed with massive hits and explosive action. Location Stadium Australia, Sydney Olympic Park Date 2 February

Kiama Rugby Sevens A one day knock out competition. Location Kiama Date 22 February Tumbafest A music, wine and food celebration. Location Tumbarumba Date 22 – 23 February Byron Bay International Film Festival Screening a diverse and dynamic range of films. Location Byron Bay Date 28 February – 9 March

NSW HAS NINE NATIONAL SURFING RESERVES

Surfest 2014 Australia’s largest festival of surfing will see 12 days of competition. Location Merewether Beach, Newcastle Date February sydney.com | visitnsw.com 23

Maitland Taste Food, Wine and Music Festival A celebration of the Hunter’s most renowned chefs and winemakers. Location Maitland Date 8 – 9 March

Inter Dominion Championship Grand Final Harness racing’s pinnacle event in the southern hemisphere. Location Tabcorp Park, Menangle Date 2 March

Bathurst Autofest A performance car festival with action that will excite all the family. Location Mt Panorama, Bathurst Date 8 – 9 March

Junee Rhythm ‘n’ Rail Festival A celebration of Junee’s distinctive rail heritage. Location Junee Date 7 – 9 March Minerama Fossicking, Gem & Jewellery Show NSW’s largest annual gem show. Location Glen Innes Date 7 – 9 March Central Coast Country Music Festival Held over three days with a fantastic line up of country music performers. Location The Entrance Date 7 – 9 March

Top Gear Festival Sydney Australia’s leading motoring festival with stunts, laughs, spills and thrills. Location Sydney Motorsport Park Date 8 – 9 March 24 sydney.com | visitnsw.com

MARCH 2014

Mrs Browns Boys Live Featuring the original cast from the BBC TV series. Location Allphones Arena, Sydney Olympic Park Date 1 – 8 March

2014 X-Blades National Touch League Touch Football Australia brings together competitors from across the country. Location Coffs Harbour Date 12 – 15 March Blue Mountains Music Festival A three day festival of folk, roots and blues music. Location Katoomba Date 14 – 16 March Sydney Track Classic Australia’s premier athletics competition. Location Sydney Olympic Park Athletics Centre Date 15 March

USA’S WINE ENTHUSIAST MAGAZINE NAMED HUNTER VALLEY ONE OF THE 10 BEST WINE TRAVEL DESTINATIONS FOR 2013

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St. Patrick’s Day Celebrations Enjoy music, food, entertainment and the St. Patrick’s Day parade. Location Sydney Date 16 March Biennale of Sydney Australia’s largest contemporary visual arts festival. Location Venues across Sydney Date 21 March – 9 June Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour – Madama Butterfly Experience the grandeur of opera outdoors on a giant harbour stage. Location The Royal Botanic Gardens, Sydney Date 21 March – 13 April Major League Baseball – LA Dodgers v Arizona Diamondbacks Catch the first two games for the Opening Series of 2014 Major League Baseball. Location Sydney Cricket Ground Date 22 – 23 March The BMW Sydney Carnival Sydney’s premier racing carnival and a world-class event held over 6 weeks. Location Rosehill Gardens & Royal Randwick, Sydney Date 22 March – 26 April


Sydney International Rowing Regatta Featuring some of the world’s best rowers. Location Sydney International Regatta Centre, Penrith Date 24 – 30 March Australian Longboard Surfing Championship A celebration of the surfing lifestyle. Location Kingscliff Date 26 – 30 March

MARCH 2014

CMC Rocks the Hunter 2014 Offers music fans mind-blowing line-ups not seen anywhere else in Australia. Location Hunter Valley Date 14 – 16 March

Plunge Celebrating local arts, culture and creativity in the Clarence Valley. Location Grafton, Maclean & Yamba Date 26 March – 26 April Commercial Club Albury Gold Cup Carnival One of the premier country racing carnivals in Australia. Location Albury Racing Club Date 27 – 28 March Nosh on the Namoi A celebration of regional produce and culture. Location Narrabri Date 29 March

BMW SYDNEY CARNIVAL’S GOLDEN SLIPPER IS THE WORLD’S RICHEST HORSE RACE FOR 2 YEAR OLDS

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Narooma Oyster Festival The ‘Ultimate Oyster Experience’. Location Narooma Date 5 April Bundanoon Highland Gathering Festival The 37th annual festival where Bundanoon becomes Brigadoon for a day. Location Bundanoon Date 5 April Bathurst to Blayney Bicycling event which caters for the general public and affiliated cycling association members. Location Bathurst Date 5 – 6 April

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Sydney Royal Easter Show Fun for everyone, showcasing the best of Australian agriculture and country life. Location Sydney Showground Date 10 – 23 April Sail Port Stephens Get ready to set sail in one of Australia’s fastest growing regattas. Location Port Stephens Date 11 – 16 April Booligal Sheep Races Come along and see how the locals have fun in the outback. Location Booligal Cricket Ground Date 12 April Hunter Valley Steamfest Steam train rides, steam displays, children’s activities and market stalls. Location Maitland Date 12 – 13 April

SYDNEY WAS NAMED ‘FAVOURITE OVERSEAS CITY’ IN CONDÉ NAST TRAVELLER’S UK READER’S CHOICE AWARDS 2012

Credit Getty Images

Orange F.O.O.D Week Savour the region’s best food and wine in a festival atmosphere. Location Orange Date 4 – 13 April

Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Australia Australia’s hottest designers showcase their Spring Summer collections. Location Carriageworks, Sydney Date April

Inglis Australian Easter Yearling Sale Australasia’s finest bred and conformed yearlings. Location Newmarket, Sydney Date 8 – 10 April

APRIL 2014

Baz Luhrmann’s Strictly Ballroom the Musical A championship ballroom dancer defies all the rules to follow his heart. Location Sydney Lyric, The Star Date From April


Tullamore Irish Festival Celebrating historic Irish connections with music, dancing, singing and games. Location Tullamore Showground Date 17 – 20 April

Deni Blues & Roots Festival Selected artists from Bluesfest perform at this two-day music festival. Location Deniliquin Date 19 – 20 April

Bluesfest Byron Bay – 25th Anniversary Australia’s premier blues and roots music festival. Location Byron Bay Date 17 – 21 April

10th Annual Sydney Comedy Festival Sydney’s biggest annual comedy event with more than 500 shows. Location Venues across Sydney Date 22 April – 17 May

Bathurst Motor Festival Multiple races and nonstop action will be on order during this three day event. Location Mt Panorama, Bathurst Date 18 – 20 April

2014 ICF Canoe Slalom Junior and U23 World Championships Welcoming over 350 athletes, coaches and officials from around the world. Location Penrith Whitewater Centre Date 23 – 27 April

Darling Harbour Hoopla Australia’s annual circus, sideshow and street theatre festival. Location Darling Harbour, Sydney Date 18 – 21 April La Festa Griffith’s largest annual festival, with the best of local food, wine and music. Location Griffith Date 19 April


APRIL 2014

Canowindra Balloon Challenge The 19th Australian National Balloon Championships. Location Canowindra Date 22 – 27 April

2014 Trans-Tasman Test Series – Touch Football Arch rivals Australia and New Zealand battle it out. Location Mudgee Date 25 – 27 April Boggabri Drovers Campfire Bring your caravan, motor home, camper trailer, tent, swag or ute. Location Boggabri Date 25 – 27 April

IN 2012, NSW SCORED WINS IN 11 OUT OF 27 CATEGORIES AT THE QANTAS AUSTRALIAN TOURISM AWARDS

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Australian Celtic Festival Attracting clans, national groups, pipe bands, dancers, artists and spectators. Location Glen Innes Date 1 – 4 May King of the Ranges Stockman’s Challenge and Bush Festival An iconic bush festival showcasing Australia’s top stockmen. Location Murrurundi Date 1 – 4 May 2014 Toyota IRONMAN Australia Port Macquarie See Australia and the World’s best Ironman triathletes compete! Location Port Macquarie Date 4 May Emirates Park Scone Cup Carnival Australia’s biggest country racing carnival. Location Scone Race Club Date 16 – 17 May Eurobodalla River of Art A vibrant 10 day art festival. Location Durras Lake, Tilba Tilba Date 16 – 25 May


The North Face 100 A 100km and 50km trail running event held in the picturesque mountains. Location Blue Mountains National Park Date 17 – 18 May

MAY 2014

Vivid Sydney Sydney is transformed into a creative canvas of lights, music and creative forums. Location Sydney Harbour Foreshore Date 23 May – 9 June

KidsFest Shellharbour A vibrant week-long festival for children and their families. Location Shellharbour Date 18 – 24 May Sydney Writers’ Festival The largest celebration of literature, stories and ideas in Australia. Location Venues across NSW Date 19 – 25 May Casino Beef Week A celebration of culture, community and heritage in the beef cattle industry. Location Casino Date 24 May – 3 June 2014 NCHA Futurity A feature of the equine calendar and the pinnacle of cutting in Australia. Location Tamworth Date 29 May – 8 June

IN 2013, MORE THAN 800,000 PEOPLE ATTENDED VIVID SYDNEY EVENTS

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Hunter Valley Wine and Food Month Premium wine and food events in the Hunter Valley throughout June. Location Hunter Valley Date 1 – 30 June Parkes Picnic Races Loads of entertainment with a great day of racing. Location Parkes Racecourse Date 7 June Sydney Film Festival Enjoy the best features, documentaries and short films from across Australia and the world. Location Venues across Sydney Date 4 – 15 June Snowy Mountains of Music Festival Enjoy this vibrant music festival. Location Perisher Valley Date 6 – 9 June

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Bellingen Readers and Writers Festival Great books and writing set in the magnificent natural environs. Location Bellingen & Dorrigo Date 7 – 9 June

JUNE 2014

Celtic Thunder The internationally acclaimed supergroup continues to astonish audiences across the world. Location Albury Entertainment Centre Date 1 June

Coonamble Rodeo and Campdraft Largest combined rodeo and campdraft in the Southern Hemisphere. Location Coonamble Date 7 – 9 June Shoalhaven Coast Winter Wine Festival Featuring 12 cellar doors from across the region. Location Various locations including Kiama & Shoalhaven Date 7 – 9 June 5 Lands Walk A 10km walk through 5 coastal lands, with 5 multicultural festivals. Location Central Coast Date 21 June 2014 Australian Badminton Open One of the 12 leg Superseries events, with the largest prize money in the world. Location State Sports Centre, Sydney Olympic Park Date 24 – 29 June

2013 SAW THE BIGGEST CROWD IN STATE OF ORIGIN AND ANZ STADIUM HISTORY

State of Origin II – NSW v QLD See Rugby League’s greatest rivalry: the Blues v the Maroons. Location ANZ Stadium, Sydney Olympic Park Date June sydney.com | visitnsw.com 35

DISCOVER REGIONAL NSW

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SOUTHERN HIGLANDS AND TABLELANDS This delightful region, just 90 minutes’ drive south of Sydney, is known for its heritage villages and old world charm. Also known for its great dining options and cool-climate wines, it’s the perfect place to relax and unwind.

BLUE MOUNTAINS

MID NORTH COAST

The small picturesque towns of the region are surrounded by the sandstone cliffs and deep valleys thick with rainforest that are part of the vast Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area, just 90 minutes’ drive from Sydney.

The incredible natural wonders of this region on land and in the sea offer plenty of enjoyable experiences from bushwalking and snorkelling to dolphin-watching, surfing, birdwatching and canoeing.

CENTRAL COAST

NORTHERN RIVERS

An hour’s drive north of Sydney, this region is known for its many natural attributes - waterways, sparkling beaches and lush countryside – where you can go bushwalking, surfing, fishing and sailing, and whale watching.

Long stretches of coastline with beaches, headlands and bushland make this a special part of the State. Go surfing, bushwalking, fishing, yoga on the beach and kayaking with dolphins. Your choices are endless.

THE HUNTER

NEW ENGLAND AND NORTH WEST

Known for its top-class wineries, restaurants and accommodation, the Hunter is a dynamic place for a getaway. Add golf courses and spa retreats, fabulous beaches, bushwalking and water sports just two hours’ drive from Sydney.

A touring holiday is the best way to enjoy this region of wide open spaces, vast horizons and an unhurried pace of life. The region’s natural attractions offer opportunities for bushwalking, birdwatching, canoeing and fishing.

For more information on events, travel and accommodation go to visitnsw.com 37

CENTRAL NSW

THE RIVERINA

This region of varied landscapes is one of the State’s richest agricultural regions as well as one of its most historic. Visit historic towns, enjoy great food and wine experiences, visit national parks and gardens.

Known as the ‘food bowl of Australia’, this region is the largest wine region in NSW and perfect for wine-tasting experiences. The great outdoors beckons with cycling, bushwalking, fishing, and bird watching all popular.

SOUTH COAST

OUTBACK NSW

Stretching from Stanwell Park to Eden, the South Coast is a region of unspoilt natural beauty. It has more than 30 national parks, crystal-clear bays and lakes, uncrowded beaches, beautiful rivers and the whitest sand in the world at Hyams Beach.

This grand region is a vast area where red ochre earth merges with clear blue skies. A highlight of the Outback is the Willandra Lakes World Heritage Area, famous for the 60,000-year-old burial sites at Lake Mungo.

SNOWY MOUNTAINS

LORD HOWE ISLAND

Whatever the season, the Snowy Mountains is spectacular. Mt Kosciuszko, Australia’s highest peak, is located in here, while Kosciuszko National Park is the largest national park in Australia. Go skiing in Winter and hiking in Summer.

This World Heritage-listed paradise located two hours’ flight from Sydney or Brisbane is a crescent-shaped island, surrounded by the world’s most-southerly coral reef. Explore the island by bike or on foot, snorkel, canoe and bushwalk.

THE MURRAY Australia’s greatest river forms a rich agricultural region where life on the river is relaxed and laid-back with plenty of ways to soak up the ambience. Take a paddle boat cruise or hire a houseboat and tour the river at your own pace.

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If it’s worth seeing or doing, It’s ON! in NSW. For more information go to visitnsw.com 39

EXPERIENCE THE

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HIGHLIGHTS OF SYDNEY

AND SURROUNDS

Climb our highest icon

Put your best foot forward

Taste Sydney

See one of the most beautiful cities in the world from the summit of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. BridgeClimb tours depart from dawn until dusk, day and night, giving everyone the opportunity to scale this world-famous icon at their own pace.

Sydney’s a great city for walkers with a series of scenic walking tracks and trails. Check out the Manly to Spit Walk, the Nielsen Park foreshore walk or the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk, popular from October to November during Sculpture by the Sea.

Fabulous harbour-side restaurants, cool bars, tapas cafés and heritage pubs – Sydney’s dining scene is one of the most creative and eclectic in the world. Add exciting multi-cultural eat streets serving every cuisine on the planet and you’ve got a global dining hot spot.

Go backstage

The past and the present meet

Be cool at Bondi Beach

Step inside the World Heritage-listed Sydney Opera House to hear the story of how this 20th century icon came to life. You’ll get a sneak-peek backstage which has welcomed legends such as Ella Fitzgerald, Pavarotti, Mikhail Baryshnikov and Cate Blanchett.

Sydney’s oldest quarter, The Rocks, is a fascinating world of cobblestone laneways, heritage buildings, galleries, restaurants and bars. Get the inside story about Sydney’s earliest colonial days on a guided walking tour or wander at your own pace.

Learn to surf with local experts at one of the most celebrated beaches in Australia. Bondi’s Campbell Parade is a near-continuous strip of outdoor cafés, gelato bars, gourmet burger bars, tapas and more.

Find the perfect Sydney wardrobe

Ride the Harbour

Explore Aboriginal heritage

Whether you love chic international brands, stylish vintage or cutting-edge Australian fashion designers, you’ll have fun shopping in Sydney. Inner-city highlights are the Queen Victoria Building and Strand Arcade and boutiques along Castlereagh, Elizabeth and King streets.

There’s no better way to soak up the natural beauty of Sydney than on a leisurely harbour cruise or short ferry ride from Circular Quay to Manly. Go on a spin around the harbour on a jet boat, kayak in sheltered coves or laze on the deck of a luxury yacht.

Just 90 minutes’ drive from Sydney is the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area where you can gain insights into the culture of the Aboriginal people who have lived here for thousands of years at the Waradah Aboriginal Centre.

Talk to the animals

Sample arts and markets

Feel like an air adventure?

Just 12 minutes’ from the city by ferry, Taronga Zoo has breathtaking harbour views, free shows and keeper talks throughout the day. More Australian animal encounters can be found at WILD LIFE Sydney and SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium at Darling Harbour.

Enjoy art? Don’t miss the Art Gallery of NSW, the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia or the contemporary Chinese collection at White Rabbit Gallery. See local artists’ work and more at weekend markets in Bondi, Paddington, Eveleigh and The Rocks.

Brave a sky dive onto the beach, go on a tandem hang-glide over the coast or get your adrenalin racing in an aerobatic flight over the coastline in a classic biplane. Find your very own air adventure just one hour’s drive south of Sydney at Wollongong.

If it’s worth seeing or doing, It’s ON! in Sydney. For more information go to sydney.com

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visitnsw.com Disclaimer: Destination NSW advises the details contained in the “Sydney & NSW Events Calendar September 2013-June 2014” are based on the best available information as at time of printing. The “Sydney & NSW Events Calendar September 2013-June 2014” highlights the main events and is not a complete list of the events occurring from September 2013-June 2014. Please consult the relevant ticketing agency and/or location for ticket prices, booking fees, surcharges and applicable taxes before purchase. There may be other conditions imposed by the ticketing agency and/or location as a result of your purchase or attendance. Please make yourself aware of all conditions before purchase and/or attendance. Note that events may be subject to change or cancellation without notice due to unforeseen circumstances. Location capacity restrictions may apply for some events. Check sydney.com, visitnsw.com or other relevant event owner websites for the latest information. Destination NSW acknowledges and appreciates all photographic images supplied by each event owner and their photographers for use in this guide. Images page 4 - 7: 2009 - 4 April Centennial Park, Photo Chris Gleisner (100); AOS - Sally Fitzgibbons; by Steve Baccon; Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour - Carmen 2013: Credit Keith Saunders; Sydney New Year’s Eve – image courtesy of City of Sydney; Henry Inman, No-Tin (Wind), a Chippewa chief (detail) 1832-33 Los Angeles County Museum of Art, gift of the 2008 Collectors Committee M.2008.58; The Lion King - Photograph by Brinkenhoff/Mogenburg © Disney; Splendour in the Grass: Photographer Marc Grimwade; Bathurst 1000: Edge Photographics; NHCA Futurity - credit Wild Fillies Photography.