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What's New in NSW
From the snow-dusted mountains in Mount Kosciuszko to our Harbour City bathed in light art, there’s a magical feel to NSW in June. If you’re planning to carve up the snow, we have the ultimate guide to where to stay amongst the powder from Perisher to Charlotte Pass. If spectator sport is more your passion, get in early for the best seat in the house at Sydney’s biggest weekend of sport. Before 16 June, a visit to Vivid Sydney is a must and we have top tips for navigating the festival with little ones plus family-friendly highlights. Winter is the high season for whale watching, so we've uncovered the best bird’s-eye views of migrating whales along the coastline.
New Food and Wine
Botanica Vaucluse is a hip lifestyle destination in Sydney’s East with a farm-to-fork restaurant, spa and soon-to-open café. The rejuvenated restaurant — which was formerly Sol Botanica — is nestled amongst fragrant herbs and presents a seasonal menu by former Bistro Lulu chef, Perry Hill. Try the salmon, smoked over Eucalyptus branches, or the golden sweet potato gnocchi.
Cowra’s oldest building, once a stone flour mill from the 1860s, is now home to a unique dining experience. The Pott & the Pig serves locally-sourced seasonal food plated up by star chef, Bobby Ellis, who shot to fame as a former finalist on Masterchef UK.
After three months of renovations The Orient Hotel, The Rocks, has reopened with a fresh menu and elegantly renovated bar. The central iconic bar has been stripped back to its original 1844 glory, while chef Brad Copeland, formerly of Est, is offering up classics with an Aussie twist, like kangaroo salad dressed with native spices.
Tasty fried chicken is front and centre at Newtown’s newest eatery, Wishbone. With a focus on friendly fast food, Wishbone features New Yorker Gregory Llewellyn’s famous smoky chicken in pieces or his Birdy Sando with iceberg lettuce, American cheese and pickles on a steamed bun.
Eclectic Redfern eatery Three Williams has launched an innovative truffle menu for the 2018 season with seven truffle dishes including truffle waffle fries and crispy truffle skin chicken breast. Head Chef Jacqui Ektoros is an avid truffle fan and has been dreaming up his Winter menu since last season.
One of the tastiest meat pies in NSW is the grass-fed beef cheek and wine pie at the Central Coast’s new bakehouse and eatery, Saddles. Nestled on 10 hectares, Saddles is named after local artisan saddler Heath Harris, who crafted the unique saddle chairs in the bar. Devour a salad created from the kitchen garden and some Roast Hill farm chicken; then take home a beef pie and some house-made sourdough.
New Accommodation
Sierra Escape is Mudgee’s first glamping experience and it’s hitting the mark with each luxury tent boasting picture windows and a freestanding bath on the deck overlooking rolling green hills. Base yourself in one of three cosy tents and explore Mudgee's wine trails.
Cool and contemporary accommodation options are popping up in Country NSW. Pop’s Hill at Canowindra is a stunning four-bedroom property with 360-degree views across vineyards, while The Shearing Shed in Cowra is a modern farm stay with a rustic open-plan cottage and log fire.
After refurbishments Nimbo Fork Lodge reopens this month. Nestled in the fork of the Tumut River and the Nimbo creek, the main lodge, cottages and restaurant are the perfect base for fly fishing and exploring Kosciuszko National Park.
Since 2013, the Walsh family in Wagga Wagga have been hosting destination weddings in the picturesque St Edwards estate in the Riverina. They’ve now built a grand lodge ideally suited for the bridal party, sleeping eight guests in serene country style.
For eco-friendly accommodation on the NSW South Coast, the new Tilba Lake Pods are part of the beautiful Tilba Lake Camp. The ‘tiny homes’ on 11 acres of coastal countryside cosily accommodate two adults in country-luxe style and have a toasty wood fire.
A sleek stone and cedar cabin on the banks of the Thredbo River has opened in time for the 2018 snow season as part of The Eastern Thredbo Village. Curated with the modern traveller in mind, the cabin has a wine fridge, bathroom with Japanese-inspired onsen bath and double-height timber clad ceilings, along with uninterrupted views of Mount Kosciuszko.
A new hostel in Byron Bay from renowned brand Wake Up! is shifting our view of traditional hostel accommodation. Not just for backpackers, the property is ideal for families too, with a resort-style feel, BBQ courtyard, free shuttle bus into town, and stunning Belongil Beach just over the road.
New Experiences
For snow bunnies wanting to ski beyond the resort boundaries at Thredbo, Backcountry Tours by North Face has rallied together a team of some of the best ski guides to take you off piste. Whether you’re a back country beginner or powder seeker, there are six different tours kicking off this July.
Fly over the stunning New England region and stop along the way to hit the foodie trails on Wayward Trails new Food and Wine Heli Tours. You’ll visit New England’s best wineries and sample paddock-to-plate produce. Enjoy local craft beer by the campfire in a secret spot only accessible by helicopter
Leading Aboriginal author and historian Bruce Pascoe will give the keynote lecture at a special symposium in Armidale as part of the 180th anniversary of the Myall Creek Massacre. The symposium features leading artists, writers, historians and commentators discussing the significance of the massacre in 1838.
At Gosford’s Tasmanian Devil Conservation facility, Devil Ark; one of their cheekiest Tasmanian devils, Tora, has recently turned one. Tora was hand-raised by Devil Ark supervisor Kelly Davis and the public can visit Tora and the other 150 devils during scheduled tours of the facility, with all funds going towards helping to save the endangered species.
As part of The Southern Highland’s Pie Time, new action-packed Pie Tours are on offer combining local pies, wines and adventure. There’s a Grape Escape Pie and Pinot Tour; a Paddock to Plate and Pie Tour with a visit to Maugers Meats' free-range grass-fed beef and lamb operation; and the Pie Cycle Tour, where you sample pies and wine, then work off your indulgences with a leisurely cycle!
For a fascinating historical journey, the Cowra Attractions and History Tour takes visitors on a guided exploration of significant military and migrant sites in the region, such as Australia's World Peace Bell, the Cowra Japanese War Cemetery and the Cowra Japanese Garden.
WILD AND FREE
From late Autumn to early Spring, the waters along the New South Wales coast burst into life as thousands of whales migrate north from the cold Southern Ocean to feed and breed in the warmth of the Pacific.
The Humpback Highway runs right alongside the New South Wales coast and each year more than 30,000 whales make their annual migration from Antarctica to the Pacific (and back again). Nature lovers can watch the show from numerous scenic coastal lookouts and walking tracks. For those who want to get closer to the action, hop aboard a whale-watching cruise and observe humpback and southern right whales in their natural habitat.
WHERE TO WATCH
From northern NSW, around Byron Bay, to the beautiful natural harbour of Eden on the NSW South Coast, the options are endless for whale watchers. Here’s a guide to some of the whale-watching hotspots along the NSW coast.
NORTH COAST
Tweed Heads
See the migrating whales right before they cross over into Queensland waters on a cruise with Coolangatta Whale Watch, the only licensed operator in the region.
Byron Bay
Spot whales from Cape Byron, Australia’s most easterly point, and on small cruise tours like Whale Watching Byron Bay and Blue Bay Whale Watching. To get a better view, Go Sea Kayak Byron Bay and Cape Byron Kayaks will take you out on the water to observe the much-loved mammals up close.
Ballina
The headland at Ballina Head Lookout, between Shelly and Lighthouse beaches, offers panoramic views of the ocean and passing whales. A stroll through an old-growth rainforest will bring you to an ocean lookout at the Black Head viewing platform. Or hop aboard a cruise with Out Of The Blue Adventures for a whale-watching expedition accompanied by a marine biologist.
Iluka and Wooli
A dedicated whale-watching platform at Iluka Bluff offers outstanding views along the coast. Wooli Deep Sea Tours takes visitors out on the water to spot whales and explore the beautiful Solitary Island Marine Park.
Coffs Harbour
Swimming alongside humpback whales is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Jetty Dive in Coffs Harbour runs three- to four-hour tours where guests can don a wetsuit, mask and flippers, and slide into the water alongside a pod of whales. The curious creatures often glide right up close.
Port Macquarie
The second most easterly point in NSW, Port Macquarie’s 9km Coastal Walk connects Town and Lighthouse beaches, and is dotted with frequent vantage points perfect for whale spotting. Cruise on Port Jet Cruise Adventures’ Wave Rider, one of the fastest commercial whale-watching boats around, or get a bird’s eye view with Port Macquarie Seaplanes.
Port Stephens
Grab your binoculars and head to Tomaree Headland, Barry Park at Fingal Bay, Fisherman’s Beach, Birubi Point and Stockton Beach north of Newcastle. At nearby Boat Harbour Headland whale sightings are almost guaranteed.
Newcastle
NOVA Cruises makes the short trip from Newcastle harbour to spot whales in the open water. For great views from dry land, head to Shepherds Hill Lookout, popular with locals.
Lake Macquarie
Combine spectacular ocean views with a bushwalk on the Caves Beach Walk which links Caves Beach and secluded Pinny Beach in the Wallarah National Park. Redhead Bluff has views to the ocean and south to Nine Mile Beach.
SYDNEY
Sit back and watch the whales pass by from the lookouts at Sydney Harbour’s North and South Head. At the tip of the northern beaches, Barrenjoey Head at Palm Beach offers an elevated viewpoint. Captain Cook Cruises, FantaSea Cruising, Bass and Flinders Cruises, Oz Whale Watching and Manly Ocean Adventures are just some of the whale-watching cruise boats that leave from Circular Quay, Darling Harbour and Manly.
SOUTH COAST
Jervis Bay
Jervis Bay is halfway along the whales’s 4,000km migration route, and they often stop here to rest and play with newborn calves. Jervis Bay Wild will get you close to the action, or head to Penguin Head at Culburra, Caves Beach or the viewing platform in Booderee National Park to watch from the shore.
Montague Island and Narooma
Narooma Charters runs whale-watching tours to stunning Montague Island just off the coast and pods of up to 10 are commonly seen.
Broulee and Moruya Head
Joined to the mainland by a sand bar, Broulee Island is a great vantage point. It only takes about an hour to walk around the small island and there are views from all sides. At Toragy Point near Moruya, a panoramic lookout has information about whales and marine life as well as great views.
Eden
Whales are a huge part of the history of this small town, which was a whaling centre for centuries before becoming a whale-watching hub. The calm Twofold Bay offers respite for calves before their final leg back and the whales will stop to feed in the nutrient-rich waters. Hop in your car for a self-drive tour along the Killer Whale Trail that takes you to five historic whaling sites, or get out on the water with Cat Balou Cruises and Freedom Charters. The Eden Whale Festival in November has lots of events, like a land-based whale-spotting tour and tours of historic Davidson Whaling Station, plus food, entertainment, music, film and fireworks.
Share your spot
Download the Wild About Whales app to find out where whales have been recently spotted and get tips on more great vantage points. You can also log in and share your own sightings.
Whale Dreaming
The long association between Aboriginal people and whales is revealed in historic rock art sites along the NSW coast. South Coast Indigenous Tourism Operator Ngaran Ngaran Culture Awareness is including Whale Dreaming as part of its regular tours during the whale-watching season, explaining the significance of whales in indigenous culture. In First Nation creation stories, the whales are elders of the sea that once walked from the land into the ocean. Whale Dreaming ceremonies sing the safe passage of the whale migration, and ensure the connection and respect continues on.
The whale is the totem of the Darkinjung people of the Central Coast. The NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service hosts a series of Whale Talks at Crackneck Point over a number of weekends.
What to spot
Southern right whales
Characterised by their broad backs and dorsal fins, wide pectoral fins and a long arching mouth, southern rights have dark grey or black skin with patches of white around the throat. The slow moving southern rights enjoy shallower water, have two blow holes which produce a distinct v-shaped blow, and are often spotted in surf zones.
Fast facts: Length: 5 to 18 metres; Weight: 1 tonne at birth, up to 80 tonnes in adulthood; Mating season: July to August; Cruising speed: 4km/h; Blow: up to 5 metres
Humpback whales
Known for their magnificent aquatic acrobatics, humpbacks are frequently spotted leaping from the water with their fins outstretched (known as breaching). Humpbacks have large pectoral fins, unique black and white markings under their tail flukes, are often dotted with barnacles, and arch their backs steeply when they dive. The males are also known for their long and complex whale songs, which can last for hours, are specific to different groups and can be heard for hundreds of kilometres. Humpbacks make one of the longest migrations, averaging 5,000km.
Fast facts: Length: 4 to 18 metres; Weight: 2 tonnes at birth, up to 50 tonnes in adulthood; Mating season: June to October; Cruising speed: 8km/h; Blow: up to 4 metres
For more information and to plan your NSW whale-watching experience, go to sydney.com and visitnsw.com
THE STRESS-FREE GUIDE TO VIVID SYDNEY FOR PARENTS
Vivid Sydney – the world’s largest festival of Light, Music and Ideas – is a magical event that has become an annual pilgrimage for so many families. The wonderland of light art sculptures, fun interactive installations and painterly projections are the kind of experiences big memories are made of for our wide-eyed little ones.
The iconic outdoor art gallery Vivid Light is becoming increasingly popular every year — in 2017, 2.33 million people attended — so to get the most out of your family’s Vivid Sydney Light visit, come along armed with these top tips:
Go early in the evening
Arrive when the lights go on at 6pm before the crowds get bigger and the kids get tired. Don’t forget, it’s a family-friendly lights on at 5.30pm at Chatswood and Taronga Zoo.
Go early in the festival
Avoid last-minute crowds and consider making a few, shorter visits. It’s impossible to see everything in one night, even without kids. Plan your visit and travel to different precincts on different days.
Go by public transport
It’s best to leave the car at home, as there will be road closures and clearways in the CBD and The Rocks. Take advantage of more than 6,000 extra bus and train services during the festival instead.
Get your kids a Vivid ID wristband
At Vivid Information Booths at Darling Harbour, Circular Quay & West Circular Quay, you can get an ID wristband for your kids. Add your contact number and put them on your children’s wrists to make it easy to be reunited should you get separated in the crowd. Point out Vivid volunteers to your children too – they’re easy to spot in bright pink shirts.
Go prepared
Plan your visit beforehand for a smooth, stress-free outing. It’s easy with the maps, transport options and activity planners at vividsydney.com or through the Vivid Sydney festival App.
VIVID SYDNEY HIGHLIGHTS FOR KIDS
The Rocks & Circular Quay
Harmony Valley - Rainbow of Peace & Trees of Friendship: interact with this Japanese-inspired super-cute sculpture
Wobbelees: interactive oversized roly-poly toys that change colour and play soft chimes
The Garden of Sweeties: learn about renewable energy with playful lollipops and candies
BALLPit: swim, jump, push and dance your way through responsive virtual toy balls
Illuminosaurus: meet an awe-inspiring, three-metre high dinosaur
Synergy: an interactive tree, which only fully lights up when the whole family is involved.
City & Surrounds
Snugglepot and Cuddlepie: join May Gibbs’ beloved characters as they celebrate their 100-year anniversary on the facade of Customs House
Aqueous: run, jump and play on the glowing, meandering puzzle-like pathway in the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney
Fantastic Oceans: a water fountain, light and laser experience at Darling Harbour with bio-luminescent underwater creatures
Tumbalong Lights: this glowing undersea garden is an inclusive sensory-play experience designed to meet the needs of children with disability.
On the North Side
Spirit of Fun: at Luna Park, the iconic Ferris Wheel will be lit for the first time ever as part of Vivid Sydney, making it the only light installation you can take a ride on
Octopoda: Westfield Chatswood invites families to play eight tentacle drums — each drum triggers an animated colour and light display
Liquid Lies: children can test their skills of deception in this interactive lie-detecting light installation at the Chatswood Mall
Lights For the Wild: go on a family adventure through oceans, jungles and the Australian bush at Vivid Sydney’s wildest precinct, Taronga Zoo.
SYDNEY'S BIG WEEKEND OF SPORT
The weekend of 22-24 June is gearing up to be an epic weekend of sport in Sydney.
First up on Friday 22 June, the Holden Women’s State of Origin will break new ground in women’s rugby league on the turf of the iconic North Sydney Oval.
Previously known as the Women’s Interstate Challenge, the match will now be played under the State of Origin brand — and for sports lovers, that’s two Origins on one weekend in June — the Men’s State of Origin Game II kicks off on Sunday night, 24 June at ANZ Stadium, Olympic Park.
On Saturday 23 June, rugby league’s Pacific Test Triple-Header will see Tonga face off with Samoa, plus Papua New Guinea clash with Lebanon. While over at Allianz Stadium, the third and final June Winter Test between the Qantas Wallabies and Ireland will kick off in what’s sure to be a hard-fought and gruelling match between the evenly-matched and long-time rivals. Historically, the Wallabies have an impressive record over Ireland on home soil, having not lost to them in Australia since 1979.
NSW Minister for Tourism and Major Events, Adam Marshall said Sydney is set for a blockbuster weekend of Origin action.
"The NSW Government is pleased to be supporting the Holden Women's State of Origin in Sydney, the home of rugby league in Australia," Mr Marshall said.
"I encourage fans to come to Sydney for the historic stand-alone Origin Two on Sunday 24 June and to extend their stay and make a long weekend of it, as with the women's match on Friday night and the 2018 Pacific Test on Saturday, the Harbour City is the place to be for rugby league excitement."
Image Courtesy of NRL
STAYING IN THE SNOW
The New South Wales 2018 ski season officially kicks off on 9 June and there’s already plenty of snow on the ground at the State’s four resorts. Some weather experts are even predicting it will be the coldest Winter on record, which could make for some seriously good snowfall.
If you’re planning a snowy escape, there’s something very special about staying at a ski-in/ski-out property. Instead of driving to the resort every morning or packing all your gear onto the Skitube, fresh snow will be waiting right outside your door. Step outside and onto the chairlift, then slide all the way back home at the end of the day.
THREDBO
In Thredbo you’ll find Australia’s highest lifted point, at 2,037 metres, and the longest ski run, the Crackenback Super Trail that twists and turns for more than five kilometres. There’s something for everyone at Thredbo, from kids and beginners to advanced skiers, snowboarders and cross country adventurers (like the new Backcountry Tours). Thredbo is known as a bit of a party town, with events, live music and rowdy bars for the après ski crowd, lit up by the twinkling lights of the Alpine village.
Where to stay
River Inn
Location, location, location. You won’t find a better spot in Thredbo than River Inn, sitting right next to Friday Flat (where all ski and snowboard lessons start) and close to the base of the Gunbarrel Express chairlift. There are multiple room types to suit groups of all sizes, and families will like the self-contained rooms with bunk beds, fold-out couches and a small kitchenette. After a day on the slopes, soak in the indoor heated spa, relax by the fire or meet new friends in the Bavarian-themed bar.
Ski In Ski Out Chalets
Thredbo’s only five-star chalets with ski-in/ski-out access are a little slice of luxury in the snow. The chalets sit on the edge of the Supertrail that runs right to the base of the village. There are 25 fully-equipped chalets with one to four bedrooms, and some even have indulgent extras such as private Jacuzzis or steam rooms. If you don’t have your own gear, the Ski Porter can arrange everything for you. Visit www.skiinskiout.com.au
CHARLOTTE PASS
Everything’s on snow at Charlotte Pass, so wherever you stay you can put your skis on at the door. Australia’s oldest and highest ski village sits eight kilometres beyond the Perisher Valley, and is completely snowbound during the winter season. The only way to access it is on one of the purpose-built oversnow vehicles that depart from Perisher for a 45-minute scenic trip through the main range and into the village. It’s compact and easily accessible, with just five lifts, making it a great resort for families and kids. There are still a handful of challenging runs for advanced skiers or you can go cross country and explore the off-piste trails. Charlotte Pass is the place to really immerse yourself in the snow, with no crowds, minimal mobile reception and a real community atmosphere. Be aware that Charlotte Pass can be considerably colder than other ski resorts – the lowest ever temperature on mainland Australia was recorded here in 1994, a frosty minus 23 degrees Celsius.
Where to stay
Kosciuszko Chalet Hotel
Australia’s original ski lodge was built by the NSW Tourist Bureau in 1930, though burnt down in 1938. The current building was rebuilt the following season and has been hosting avid skiers for the past 80 years. The property makes things easy for families with the free Frosty’s Kids’ Club that entertains children aged three to 13 with games, crafts and activities during the day, and can supervise an early dinner while parents eat separately.
Knockshannoch Ski Lodge
The smallest lodge in Charlotte Pass, www.knockshannoch.com.au has just six ensuite bedrooms. That makes for a quieter, more relaxed stay away from the noise of many of the larger hotels. Curl up by the fireplace with a glass of wine and watch the snow blanket the village outside.
PERISHER
The largest ski resort in the southern hemisphere, Perisher covers more than 12 square kilometres across seven peaks and four distinct areas. There are 47 lifts accessing hundreds of runs, as well as a large village with lots of places to eat and drink. The resort also has five terrain parks where skiers and snowboarders can practice their tricks, more than 100 kilometres of cross country trails and 240 snow cannons to ensure there’s a coating of fresh powder for the whole season. The Skitube conveniently connects Perisher with the outside world, so many people stay out of the resort, but an on-snow property will give you that magical Winter Wonderland experience.
Where to stay
Corroboree Lodge
This stylish lodge offers spacious rooms, a huge guest lounge with games and DVDs, an in-house bar with a pool table, and an extensive list of wines and whiskies for après ski enjoyment. At night, the kids will be served an earlier two-course meal before heading to the games room to watch a movie, so the adults can savour their three-course meal without interruptions. Visit www.corroboreeskilodge.com.au
Perisher Valley Hotel
Sitting just 100 metres from the base of the Village 8 Express, the Perisher Valley Hotel has great views over the whole resort. The rooms can sleep from two to five people and the Mountain View Suites have an enclosed balcony. Grown ups can relax in the sauna or book an in-house massage while the kids are playing in the games room.
Smiggins Hotel and Apartments
Part of the Smiggins Arcade complex in the heart of the village, the Smiggins Hotel and Apartments has everything you need – like restaurants, take away shops, supermarket, bank and post office – within walking (or skiing) distance. Kids can use the Smigs Kids Club for free and daycare is also available for ages six months to six years.
Perisher Manor
Operating for over 45 years, Perisher Manor is a great option for skiers on a budget who still want the convenience of ski in/ski out. Rooms are compact but clean and sleep two to five guests, close to the base of the Village 8 Express lift. It’s also home to The Pub, the largest public bar and food court in the resort.
SYDNEY
Until 16 June: Sydney is a creative canvas of light, music and ideas for 23 spectacular nights with Vivid Sydney 2018. Each night The Rocks, Circular Quay, Royal Botanic Garden Sydney, Barangaroo, Darling Harbour, Taronga Zoo, Chatswood and Kings Cross will light up, together with Luna Park for the very first time in 2018. Learn from inspiring Game Changers at Vivid Ideas and global acts at Vivid Music.
Until January 2019: James Cameron’s immersive new exhibition, Challenging the Deep, has just opened at the Australian National Maritime Museum. It traces Cameron’s lifelong pursuit of and achievements in deep ocean science, technology and exploration, including his record breaking dives in Deep Sea Challenger.
Until 19 July: After winning a glittering array of international awards, Simon Phillips' spectacular production of Priscilla - Queen of the Desert returns to the Capitol Theatre for its 10th anniversary celebration tour.
2 June: Winding through the scenic grounds of the Sydney International Regatta Centre, the Western Sydney Marathon celebrates health, fitness and active lifestyles with four races suitable for all ages and abilities.
2 June: Raise a glass with the best breweries, cider producers and food purveyors from around Australasia at the GABS Beer, Cider and Food Festival. There will be more than 600 brews to taste plus street food vendors and live entertainment.
3 June: Run2Cure Neuroblastoma is all about getting fit, having fun and supporting a great cause in the Royal Botanic Garden. There are 10-, five- and three-kilometre events, a one-kilometre dash for kids and lots of family activities.
4 June: Over 200 years, Australia has lost roughly one third of its rainforests. Go Behind the Scenes at PlantBank in the Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan to learn about their conservation efforts.
6 – 17 June: For 12 days and nights, the world’s best new films come to Sydney for the Sydney Film Festival. Over 200 films that you won’t find on the conventional movie schedule will screen in selected venues across Sydney.
9 – 10 June: Get your motor running at the Australian Muscle Car Masters. There will be six race categories, the chance to meet drivers and get up close to their cars, plus lots of off-track attractions.
9 – 11 June: The award-winning Transport Heritage Expo brings Sydney's transport history to life with heritage train and bus rides, train displays, live music, tours of the ‘ghost’ platforms of St James Station and much more.
15 June: A stellar lineup of speakers and performers will take to the stage at TEDxSydney 2018 to explore the theme of HumanKind through talks, performances, films and debates.
16 June: Cheese, cheese and more cheese comes to Centennial Parklands with the Cheese Lovers Festival. Share a platter with friends, meet producers, learn new tricks in a workshop and listen to some live jazz.
23 June: The Qantas Wallabies will host Ireland in the first three-Test series ever played between the two nations. The home team haven’t lost to the visitors on Aussie soil since 1979.
24 June: Sydney’s ANZ Stadium hosts the only standalone Sunday night State of Origin match when more than 80,000 fans will gather to cheer on the NSW Blues.
28 June – 29 July: The snow comes to the beach at Bondi Winter Magic. There’s ice skating, art and entertainment, and the Bondi Eye, Australia’s highest Ferris wheel that will give visitors spectacular 360-degree views from inside a glass capsule.
29 June – 1 July: See the biggest ever showcase of Australian and international beer and cider in the state at the Sydney Beer and Barbecue Festival, with 50 exhibitors under the one roof, chefs cooking up a barbecue storm and live music.
30 June – 1 July: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists from remote Australian arts centres will bring their artworks, sculptures, textiles and accessories to Sydney for the National Indigenous NAIDOC Art Fair. It will also feature more than 30 local stalls, bush tucker cooking demonstrations, weaving workshops and live music and Aboriginal dance performances.
REGIONAL
30 June – 7 July: The Black Tie and Gumboot Truffle Hunt and Dinner at Borrodell Winery in Orange kicks off with a black truffle hunt with trained dogs and is followed by a five-course feast showcasing the freshly foraged truffles.
1 – 30 June: Taste the Southern Highlands’ best pies at Pie Time, a month-long festival of themed dinners, special events, workshops, tastings, tours and more. The main event is the Pie Fest weekend on 23-24 June with markets stalls, competitions, demonstrations, activities for the kids and plenty of pies.
1 June – 31 August: While cold winds blow and the occasional snow falls, experience warm hospitality at Yulefest in the Blue Mountains with log fires, Christmas fare, singalongs and perhaps even Santa.
2 June: The Love Lennox Festival is a celebration of everything you love about Lennox Head, beautiful beaches, family ambience, superb quality food and drinks, chic boutiques, great music and exciting entertainment for all.
7 – 11 June: Port Macquarie-Hastings has the largest koala population on the east coast of Australia. Hello Koalas Festival is great fun for all ages while also focussing attention on the importance of caring for this threatened species.
7 – 11 June: Marking its 60th anniversary in 2018, the Henry Lawson Festival of Arts celebrates Grenfell's most famous son with a weekend of entertainment for everyone. There’s a focus on the arts and heritage, as well as street markets, music, food, wood chop competitions and a fun run.
8 – 10 June: Pitch Fork Cowra is a celebration of the wonderful outdoor Aussie lifestyle, the love of the bush, camping, wholesome family fun, cooking outside and just sitting around the campfire with good food, good people and good yarns.
Until 11 June: SeeChange is a vibrant Winter festival celebrating the creativity, culture and cuisine of the Jervis Bay area. Immerse yourself in the festival’s diverse exhibitions, performances, special events, talks, workshops and demonstrations.
8 – 11 June: Celebrate the opening weekend of the snow season at the Perisher Peak Festival which will feature over 120 concerts across several venues in the unique environment of the Perisher snowfields.
8 – 11 June: Around 1,000 cowboys and cowgirls, along with approximately 4,000 spectators, head to the edge of the Outback for the Coonamble Rodeo and Campdraft, competing for more than $30,000 prize money.
9 – 10 June: For a mountain biking adventure, the Tathra Enduro will have you racing along the coastline on a mix of forest roads, double tracks and single tracks in the heart of coastal wilderness.
9 – 10 June: Harvest Festival celebrates the fantastic local produce and unique producers from across the Central Coast. The festival will incorporate various free activities, entertainment, art as well as ticketed food experiences
10 June: The Clarence Valley's newest free music festival Eat to the Beat in Yamba features some of Australia's best musicians and bands, street food chefs, craft beer and wine, and a pop-up bar from Byron Bay Brewery.
14 – 16 June: The Wagga Comedy Fest brings comedians like Dave Hughes, Judith Lucy, Denise Scott, Nazeem Hussain, Dane Kennedy and Dane Simpson to the Riverina for three days of laughs.
22 June: A touring exhibition by Indigenous Australian artists opens later this month at the Bega Valley Regional Gallery. Balnhdhurr – A Lasting Impression celebrates the ancient craft of printmaking by generations of Yolngu artists from the Yirrkala Print Studio in a remote corner of Arnhem Land. The exhibition is presented by Artback NT in association with Buku-Larrnggay Mulka Centre.
23 June: Held on the Winter Solstice, The Lismore Lantern Parade celebrates community, art and nature with arts, crafts, workshops, regional cuisine, a spectacular parade, lanterns, parade bands, street theatre, music, carnival dancers, illuminated puppets, fire art and pyrotechnics.
Until 30 June: The Hunter Valley Wine and Food Festival is bigger than ever, now with two months of themed activities that highlight the region’s exceptional food and wine.
