Wednesday, November 11, 2009

Sydney And Its Beach Culture

By Jennifer Schellington

November marks an important event in Sydney's cultural calendar. The Sculpture by the Sea exhibition is a must see if you are here in Sydney before 15th November.

During the first two weeks of November, the Bondi to Bronte coastal walk comes alive with fascinating and often amusing sculptures to delight all ages. This unique event combines some of the most impressive sculptures with probably the best coastal walk in Australia

The competition is now in its 12th year and last year attracted over half a million visitors. There are over 100 different sculptures to appreciate with 9 different prizes on offer. All of the sculptures are designed to respond in some way to the beautiful coastal setting.

Last year the winner of the $30,000 NBA prize went to Mark McCelland's for his sculpture entitled "She Thought" which was a large bronze sculpture with a key hole where viewers could see the ocean horizon.

If this is your first time to the exhibition, take some advice from the locals. Try to go early to beat the crowds. It gets VERY busy and it makes the experience so much better if you can linger and admire the artwork on your own rather than part of a huge crowd.

There are plenty of cafes in both Bondi and Bronte for you to take a well deserved rest. Some venues put on special events to coincide with the exhibition. Many run their own Sausage Sizzle and BBQ in hidden away terraces. Another great option is to bring your own food. Bondi, Tamarama and Bronte all have BBQ facilities. The views are simply stunning and it's a great way to relax after your walk.

Try the Bondi Icebergs RSL for some cheap fodder with amazing views. Don't forget to bring some photo ID with you otherwise you will be refused entry no matter how old you are. For something more upmarket head to Icebergs Dining Rooms where you'll be greeted with a sumptuous BBQ.

There's not much at Tamarama but stroll onto Bronte and you will be greeted by a delightful row of cafes. Here you'll find something for every taste. Try SWELL for some upmarket brunch or Jennies for the best coffee this side of the beach.

You'll also be able to pick up brochures at key points along the walk, which will help explain a little more about the sculptures. You are bound to get to sample various drinks along the way but still, make sure you take plenty of water with you as the walk is still strenuous in places with hills and steps. It makes it a difficult walk with young children or those of you with prams and strollers.

If you aren't planning to be in Sydney in November but really like the sound of this event, don't worry! You can catch the same event in Perth during the month of March. This one takes place on Cottesloe Beach and is almost identical to the Bondi version.

So, make it your mission to get there this week, prefereably not at the weekend so you can miss the crowds. This is one part of the Sydney Beach Culture that you won't want to miss.

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