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working holiday Australia

SYDNEY EXPLORED: CRONULLA AND THE SUTHERLAND SHIRE

The article is written by Maddison Reynolds

Australia’s most populous city is a goldmine for adventurers. While most visitors stick to the Sydney Harbour, CBD, and Bondi areas, Sydney is actually made up of 658 suburbs, 40 local government areas and 15 contiguous regions. So much of Sydney’s beauty is outside of its main tourist hubs, and with a little research and insider knowledge, you can experience an authentic Sydneysider experience.

The Sutherland Shire is located 26 kilometres south of the CBD and borders Australia’s oldest national park, the Royal National Park. The seaside town of Cronulla is a real highlight of this region, combining white, sandy beaches and lively restaurants and cafes. Cronulla can easily be explored in a day by rail from Central Station using the T4 Eastern Suburbs and Illawarra Line.

ESPLANADE
Grind Espresso – Shop 4/15 Surf Road, Cronulla.

Start your adventure early to catch a glimpse of the sunrise from the Cronulla Esplanade. The 4.5km paved walkway showcases Sydney’s longest stretch of beach. Grab a coffee from local favourite, Grind Espresso, and begin your journey at South Cronulla beach, walking southward. Stop along the way at Bass and Flinders Point to take in the scenery across the ocean at Bundeena and the Royal National Park and make sure to take a dip in the sparkling water at Salmon Haul or at one of the many ocean pools dotted along the coastline.

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BLACKWOOD PANTRY
Blackwood Pantry – Shop 5/33 Surf Lane, Cronulla; Next Door – 2/4-6 Kingsway, Cronulla; Pilgrim’s Cronulla – 97 Gerrale St, Cronulla; Ham Harry & Mario – 3/17 Gerrale St, Cronulla; LOAF Sandwiches – 89 Cronulla St, Cronulla.

Cronulla truly has something for everyone when it comes to food. Grab your appetite and head up to Cronulla Mall to check out the options.

If you’re after a brunch option that will be sure to appease your Instagram followers, hit up Blackwood Pantry and try out their all-day menu offering. The Surf Lane venue delivers food that tastes as colourful as it looks. Menu highlights include the smashing pumpkins and miso glazed Atlantic salmon. Other noteworthy cafes include Next Door, Pilgrim’s, Ham and Loaf Sandwiches.

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GREENHILLS
One of the best things about Cronulla is the vast array of beaches on offer. If you’re after a quieter spot to try your hand at surfing or just to relax on the sand, Greenhills Beach is the perfect place. The beach can be reached by following the Esplanade north or by car. Greenhills and neighbouring Wanda are also great locations to watch local surfers when the swell is up. Those feeling a little more adventurous might wish to follow the path from Wanda Reserve towards the sand dunes. The natural dunes are believed to be 15,000 years old and are a great workout for those willing to climb them.

CAPE SOLANDER
Just north of Greenhills is Cape Solander, one of Sydney’s best whale watching spots. Stunning, white-rock cliffs and panoramic ocean views surround the lookout point. Cape Solander is located in the Kamay Botany Bay National Park so car entry is recommended. Park entry fees apply.

HAZELHURST GALLERY
Hazelhurst Regional Gallery and Arts Centre – 782 Kingsway, Gymea.

For those seeking a little more culture, the Hazelhurst Regional Gallery and Arts Centre is the hub for art in the Sutherland Shire. Featuring works from local and international artists, the gallery is set on tranquil gardens and is easily accessible by rail to Gymea Station (also on the T4 Eastern Suburbs and Illawarra Line).

CRONULLA RSL
Cronulla RSL – 38 Gerrale St, Cronulla; Northies Cronulla Hotel – Kingsway & Elouera Rd, Cronulla; Brass Monkey – 115A Cronulla St, Cronulla; Fusion Nightclub – 84 Cronulla St, Cronulla; Sting Bar – 3-7 Kingsway, Cronulla.

There’s no better way to end a day of sun and sand then with a beer or cocktail overlooking the ocean. Head to the historic Cronulla RSL and grab a courtyard table for an unbelievable sunset. The RSL offers food but for those looking to broaden their horizons, Low & Loftys, Alphabet Street, Eat Burger, Queen Margarita and Beach Burrito all put on great dinner offerings.

If you’re keen on continuing into the night, Northies Cronulla Hotel and neighbouring Old Joes are sure to get you in the mood for dancing. If live music is more your thing, hit up the Brass Monkey. Finish your night off at Fusion Nightclub or Sting Bar, just in time for the final train back to Central Station.

Road Trip to the Isa

The article is written by Ebbony Lawman The cover photo by Mount Isa Mines Rotary Rodeo

You possibly say g’day mate on the daily, reference The Castle in a convo and wait for your mates to tout one back whilst you all proudly listen to Triple J. Maybe you subtly name drop that time you’ve seen Thor in Byron Bay. Not to mention the Gold Coast is your weekend escape and your hikes are through conveniently mapped and pathed national parks, so much so you can proudly say you’ve seen the best parts of Queensland. But there’s one part of Queensland that not many people talk about, which unlike the above, rings closer to what you know Australia is famous for, is the land down under, the actual outback, littered with kangaroos, cattle and cowboys, where grassy greens are traded for prickly spinifex and distant water is later realised to be just an inferior mirage from the dry desert heat, sound fun?

Well if you point your google maps towards North-West Queensland, burrowed among the Selwyn Ranges and the banks of the Leichhardt River there’s a small town called Mount Isa which is affectionately known as the ‘oasis of the outback’. Mount Isa is the town where you’ll quickly appreciate downing an ice-cold beer and at the end of the day and indulging in the best steak sourced locally from the stations. This town is far different to what Thor feels on the coast with a mine at the town’s fringe. So why should you visit this small town in the middle of nowhere? Well, it’s home to the world’s third largest
rodeo which occurs annually in August and this year happens to be the 60^th anniversary!

unnamed-10 Photographed by Tane Cadman

The Rodeo has been around since 1959 and is sure to give you the true Aussie experience you can’t get anywhere else;
‘It’s where the romance of the Australian Outback meets the grit of a mining town, east meets west and man meets beast’ Isa Rodeo 2018.

All the famous Australian icons will be there from Nolesy (Shannon Noll) to Barnsey (Jimmy Barnes) and many more. You’ll be able to get up close in the action including; ‘saddle bronc, bareback bronc, bull riding, rope & tie, steer wrestling, team roping, ladies barrel racing, ladies breakaway roping’ Isa Rodeo 2018.

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Photo by Mount Isa Mines Rotary Rodeo

*TIP Be sure to book your accommodation in ASAP, as this time of year hotels fill up fast!

Right, so you’re ready to leave the coast and head to the outback, you’ve got your RM Williams boots and cowboy hat ready! It’s going to be a long but exciting trip to get there.
There are three ways to travel and we’ve got all the best tourist spots to keep your journey memorable.

unnamed-6 Photographed by Tane Cadman

Brisbane to Mount Isa (Flying)

The quickest way to get to the Isa is flying, the two-and-a-half-hour flight which will set you back about $600 return, exy I know but, they do have specials.

*Tip Subscribe to Virgin Blue Happy Hour email alerts.

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But why not hit the road and experience the true blue, fair dinkum Aussie way to go bush? You don’t need to be an expert off-roader to explore the legendary Queensland Outback and get a taste for life on the land.

Brisbane to Mount Isa (Inland)

Say goodbye to the dairy cows, grassy pastures and ocean air and tip your hat towards dry desert heat and craploads of kangaroos who will happily flex their pecs at you on the road, make you stop, and slowly hop off like they won ‘that one’. You’ll also learn to appreciate a quality roadhouse steak burger, as franchises fade away when you cruise inland through Toowoomba, Roma and Longreach.

*Tip Be careful driving at night though as there are a lot of kangaroos, emu’s and they will do more damage to your car then you will to them, trust they will hop out of nowhere and in front of you.

Furthermore, it’s important to take lots of pit stops and fuel up, snacks and drinks during your trip, we recommend stretching your legs at Roma (478km) and experience the Roma Saleyard Australians largest cattle selling centre. Tours of the Saleyard are held on Tuesdays and Thursdays, the raised walkways give you an excellent vantage point to catch the excitement of cattle sales.

Next stop Tambo (900km) Teddy Bear shop perfect for a quick cuddle and a collector’s item. Then onto Longreach (1200km) where you can check out the Australian Stockman’s Musem and if you plan it right, attend The Stockman show which celebrates the stockman’s skills and horsemanship.

From Longreach it’s a long hall as it’s 6hrs drive to Mount Isa, we recommend stretching your legs at Cloncurry Rotary Lookout and soak up that country air if you have time to spare you can drive out the Ernest Mine, it’s a site worth seeing. Then you’re only one hour left to your destination Mount Isa.

unnamed-5 Photographed by Tane Cadman

Driving from Brisbane to Mount Isa (along the coast)
This drive via Townsville is longer – 2300km – but has the beautiful Queensland coast and way more attractions to see. First, stop Hervey Bay (283km) stay the night and explore Fraser island with shipwrecks and stunning beaches, this place will leave you in awe and wanting to move here permanently.

Next stop Bundaberg the birthplace of Bundaberg rum visit the Bundaberg Distillery (110km) and learn about how this famous rum has become such an Australian icon. Then on to Rockhampton, you can take a nightcap here as there is plenty of accommodation to choose from, plus you can explore the Capricorn Caves (288km) this is a must-see.

Next stop the famous Airlie Beach (481km) soak up the sun, visit the Airlie beach lagoon grab a bite to eat. Then onto Townsville (275km) where there is plenty of fun to be had, book a hotel and enjoy the various amounts of restaurants, shopping and the Reef HQ.

Then inland to Mount Isa (904km), make sure you’re well rested, fuelled up and got lots of snacks as this is going to be a long drive. If you get there early make sure to book a tour down a mine shaft at Hard Time Mines, you’ll learn first-hand what it takes to be a miner and what life is like underground.

unnamed-8 Photographed by Tane Cadman

As we mentioned earlier Mount Isa has some of the best steaks in Queensland, be sure to book yourself a table at the Isa Hotel and try their Wagyu steak it won’t disappoint! If that’s not up your alley check out The Ovi, Mount Isa’s favourite pub known for the affordable-yummiest crumb steak in town. If that’s not your thing, grab a picnic basket and head down to Lake Moondarra and grab a selfie with the peacocks.

unnamed-9 Photographed by Tane Cadman

*Tip Make sure to get a selfie at the famous crossroads and check out the view on Telstra hill.

Then onto the Mount Isa Rodeo, were your days and nights will be filled with outback entertainment, country folk and good food and beverages.

unnamed-2 Photographed by Mount Isa Mines Rotary Rodeo

By the end of this trip, your Instagram will be flooded with some of the most unique photos of Queensland and you’ll have hundreds of stories to tell your friends and family for years to come.

Just remember that Queensland’s Outback is connected by both sealed roads and dirt tracks. Before you head off, don’t forget to brush up on the road rules, grab a first aid kit for the car to ensure a safe and successful road trip and most importantly have fun!

I would like to thank my Fiancé and his family for sharing their experiences of Mount Isa with me, to create this wonderful post that I can share with you.

Let us know in the comments, about your Outback adventure!

How to eat like a Melburnian

The article is written by Paola Bianchi

5 essential things to be on the right track

1. Feeling like toast for breakfast? Better be Sourdough!

You can find Sourdough bread (fermented dough) in any respectable bakery, cafe and supermarket. If it is wholemeal, organic, mixed with Rye or with seeds, you are closer to eat like a Melburnian. Give a try to the classic buttered bread with Vegemite and avocado. Yummy!

For Melburnians, it’s all about gut health.

Bonus: our fav spots in Melbourne are Baker D. Chirico and Tivoli Road Bakery. You won’t be disappointed!

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2. When ordering eggs, the waitress will ask ‘how do you want your eggs’
and it is expected to be a specific answer. Most menus show an ‘eggs your way’ option. What does that mean? It means you can choose between a lot of possibilities! We definitely haven’t seen this in my hometown.

Boiled eggs (soft or hard); scramble eggs (soft and fluffy); fried eggs (sunny side up or over); poached eggs (hard or runny) and baked eggs.

Bonus: for eggs made like in heaven, head to The Kettle Black or Hardware Société. These places have been delivering awesome eggs for a long time.

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3. Have you been invited to a Christmas meal?
Fabulous! Make sure to bring wine or dessert. Any good quality red wine will be happily accepted. If you want to please sweet tooths, get a lovely dense fruit cake, plum pudding or the old fashion gingerbread.

According to a survey made by Woolworths (a big chain of supermarkets), over half a million pavlovas are usually sold on the week previous to Christmas. Get a pavlova; you can’t go wrong!

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4. Did you think that ordering a coffee is easy peasy?
Think again! The coffee culture in Melbourne is a serious thing, and the competition between cafes, roasters and coffee suppliers is a hot subject.

To cover the basics, we have the espresso coffee which can be black (think long black or double ristretto) or white (with your choice of milk, think lattes or cappuccinos).

There are also other alternatives that are becoming incredibly popular like filtered coffee (served hot and black) and cold drip/ cold brew (served cold, black or white)

If unsure of which coffee to get, we suggest to talk to the barista and ask for a recommendation. Usually, they are happy to go quickly through their options to help you determine which drink suits you better.

Bonus: our top-notch places for coffee fans are St Ali in South Melbourne (sit in one of the communal tables) and Patricia Coffee Brewers in the CBD (no sitting here, it’s a standing room!).

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5. Keep the politeness.
We know it can be exciting to try new things and you may want to do it ASAP. But always say this two magic words: ‘please’ and ‘thank you’. We found that Melburnians are so polite that even when they didn’t do anything wrong, they will say sorry first.

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The Best Study Spots For You

The article is written by Rachel Ganczarczyk

Studying in the comfort of your own home can sometimes be a bit too comfortable and may lead to distractions and long periods of procrastination. Some days you just need a change of scenery to keep you inspired and focused on your studies. Luckily, we’ve thought of some ideal creative spaces for your next study session.

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Library
The quietness of a library can be the perfect setting for you to get into your zone and focus all your attention on studying. With minimal distractions and the presence of all things literature, you’re sure to be effective and efficient in learning.

It’s also good to know that most libraries offer free Wifi and quiet study areas.

Try visiting a state library in the city or searching within your local area to see if there is a public community library near you.

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Art galleries and museums
While it may not be as quiet as a library, studying at a public state art gallery or museum can be an effective way to get your creative juices flowing. You’ll be inspired by the visual scenery as you immerse yourself in the cultural ambience. And don’t forget to have a quick gaze around and enjoy the displays while you’re there!

Some exhibitions and exclusive previews may require fees, but general entry to art galleries and museums are free. They also generally offer quiet lounge areas and some even feature cafes with seating.

You can visit one next time you’re in the city where most of them are located.

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Park
Studying outside in the sunshine and fresh air may just be exactly what you need to stay focused when studying. Being outside is scientifically proven to boost brain power, rejuvenate the body and enhance thinking. Whether you’re studying under a shady tree or sitting on a bench, your time outside can benefit both your mental health and study progress.

Parks in Australia are free, and if you plan on visiting one remember to stay hydrated with water and to always wear sunscreen!

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Coffee shop
Why not tuck yourself away, grab a coffee and study in your favourite brunch spot or local coffee shop? With snacks and drinks on standby to keep you going, a buzzing coffee shop can be an ideal study spot for those who think and study aloud.

In Australia, it is polite to purchase something at the store before you sit down as a customer.

If the chitter-chatter of other customers bothers you, bring your earphones and good tunes to zone out from any distractions.

If you are new to Australia or you want to stay here longer, Study Anywhere is here for you to help. Feel free to send us a message on Facebook or via our contact page.

5 Tips to Study More Efficiently

The article is written by Paige Murphy
The cover photo by Rob Bye

Studying isn’t always easy… I’m definitely guilty of procrastinating! With the semester nearing an end, exam time is coming up. Everyone works differently and has a different studying style – it’s about finding what works best for you (although we don’t recommend cramming at the last minute!). Here are a few tips though that can help everyone to be a little more efficient when it comes to study time.

1. List, prioritise and plan

Create a list of everything that you need to get done. Then prioritise each task and allocate it a specified time – just like if you were sitting an exam. Put all of this into a schedule and make sure you’re realistic about the times you have set yourself. Give yourself plenty of time to complete anything that needs to alleviate any unnecessary stress. A little bit of organisation can go a long way!

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Photo by Estée Janssens on Unsplash

2. Maintain a healthy and well-balanced diet

It’s very easy to snack on chocolate and chips and all sorts of junk food. Eating these foods is actually counter-productive to your studying though, impacting on your energy and concentration levels. Instead, stick to foods like fish, nuts, blueberries and other fresh fruit and vegetables. These will help to keep your energy levels up and have been proven to aid in concentration and memory. Sugar and high levels of caffeine might be a quick fix but can see you crash out quicker, so swap your coffee out for green tea (at least you’ll get other nutritional benefits along the way) and stay away from soft drinks – stick to good all H²0.

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Photo by Cecilia Par on Unsplash

3. Keep up-to-date notes throughout the semester

Okay, so the semester is well past the half-way mark but there is no time like the present to get on top of your notes (and you can learn for next semester!). Allocate some time each week to take notes on that week’s topics for each of your classes. That way, come exam time things won’t feel so stressful and all you will have to do is re-read over them all instead of worrying about what was taught in week 3 that you have completely forgotten about.

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Photo by Brad Neathery on Unsplash

4. Organise your study space and keep free from distractions

It’s so easy to become distracted by the littlest things when you need to study. All of a sudden you could be doing anything, anywhere and it all seems so much more important than what you really need to do. Find a space that you would like to study – make sure it is neat and organised (so you don’t procrastinate by cleaning constantly) and somewhere that will be distraction-free. Turn your phone off or put it into flight mode so you won’t be distracted by notifications popping up, and make sure you won’t be disturbed by others.

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Photo by rawpixel on Unsplash

5. Take regular breaks and get plenty of rest!

Studying for long hours without giving your brain a rest isn’t actually beneficial. You’re better off working in shorter, sharper bursts to be more efficient. Set yourself a time to complete each task and take breaks in between. Go for a walk around the block or take your meal times in these breaks to keep your energy and concentration levels up. Make sure you’re also getting the right amount of sleep. It’s easy to find yourself up at all hours during exam and assessment periods but if you’re not sleeping, your efficiency levels go down. By following the above steps though, you should have plenty of time to rest!

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Photo by Krista Mangulsone on Unsplash

Art on the move? I’m in!

The article is written by Paola Bianchi

Imagine you are walking around with your friends on any street in Melbourne and all of a sudden you see your art displayed on a Tram that is passing by and say to your pals ‘hey, I designed that!’
Oh! I would be so proud of you!

‘Streets are theatres of life, and in Melbourne, the set is always in motion’ the organisers stated.

Melbourne city is calling (gain!) to all artists that live in Victoria to apply to use the Tram as a canvas.
Is the sixth consecutive year that this project is on, having tremendous success. Just 8 participants will be able to showcase. As a condition, participants must be a Victorian resident, based in the state as the primary location in which they live and work. Don’t worry! I double checked with their information department and confirmed that any international student is eligible to apply if currently living in Melbourne. Another good reason to study here.

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Wouldn’t be great to see your artwork moving around the city?
Applications close Tuesday 12th of June at midday and the selected applicants will be announced in July.

Head here to get all the details.

Good luck!

Pictures and information based on creative.vic.gov.au and www.festival.melbourne

Upcoming Events in Brisbane

The article is written by Kelsa McIntyre

Fish Lane Festival
Fish Lane Festival is a yearly event that features signature dishes from local Brisbane eateries. Expect some smooth tunes and yummy temptations from the likes of the Chu the Phat, Julius Pizzeria, Gelato Messina and many more.

When: Saturday 12^th May
Where: Fish Lane, South Brisbane.
Price: Free Entry
What to Bring: Your dancing shoes and an empty belly.

Chicken Nugget Festival
Yes, you read that right. There is going to be a weekend dedicated to chicken nuggets. Expect normal juicy nuggets to crazy nugget burgers and everything in between. Apart from some delicious nuggets to be had the laneway in which the festival is held is also an awesome new Brisbane hangout where there are heaps of weekly events so keep an eye out!

When: Saturday 26^th – Sunday 27^th May
Where: Welcome to Bowen Hills- Gregory Terrace, Bowen Hills.
Price: Free Entry
What to Bring: some fingers ready for some lickin.

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Queensland Music Awards
The Queensland Music Awards is a celebration and recognition of the artists, industry leaders, festivals and live music venues that promote and encourage local music. So if you’re a fan of local music or just interested to network and meet other music lovers the Queensland Music Awards is the place with all ticket holders also receiving access to the official after party.

When: Monday 14^th May
Where: Royal International Convention Centre, Brisbane Showgrounds.
Price: Tickets from $55
What to Bring: listening ears and dancing shoes, expect performances from May Lyn, WAAX and many more.

Rom Coms and Nom Noms
Now, let’s give props where props are deserved RomComs and Nom Noms, YES PLS. Every Wednesday night in the month of Many romantic comedies are shown at a pop-up cinema in Post Office Square. So grab your partner or get on Tinder to find someone to take for an awesome date night. Enjoy grazing boxes from Isles Lane for as little as $20 or bring along your own cute picnic basket for a romantic night under the stars.

When: Wednesday 16 May-Home Again, 5pm
Wednesday 23 May- Crazy Stupid Love, 5pm
Where: Post Office Square.
Price: Free!
What to Bring: Picnic blanket.

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Guinness World Record Attempt
Ever wanted to be part of a Guinness World Record Attempt? Well now’s your chance. Join hosts Dr Karl from the ABC and Jimmy Giggle in attempting a new Guinness world record for stargazing. Enjoy free entertainment and goodies from local food trucks as you (hopefully) make Guinness World Record history.

When: Wednesday 23^rd May
Where: Celebration Lawn, Roma Street Parkland
Price: Free
What to bring: Binoculars or a Telescope.

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Brisbane Lions Game
If you haven’t been to an Australian rules football game yet, you’re missing out. Even if you don’t know what’s actually going on in the game the atmosphere of being at an Australian sports event makes up for it. So grab a snag and settle up for an evening of good old-fashioned sport.

When: Brisbane Lions v Hawthorn Hawks – Sunday 20^th May
Brisbane Lions v Sydney Swans- Saturday 26^th May
Where: The Gabba.
Price: General Admission is $27.
What to bring: Enthusiasm and Brisbane Lions merchandise.

Sydney’s Best Views

The article is written by Paige Murphy
Cover photo by Bernard Spragg

Situated on the east coast of Australia, Sydney is blessed to have so many stunning views throughout the city. Whether you’re here visiting or if you’re a local just looking to be a tourist in your own city, we have compiled the best spots in Sydney with the best views for you.

Climbers heading up the Sydney harbour bridge

Photo by Jimmy Harris

The Harbour Bridge
Maybe not for those scared of heights, but we definitely recommend doing the Bridge Climb. It’s a great way to see the whole city and you can tell everyone you have climbed Sydney’s most famous landmark. The climb takes about 3.5 hours but if you’re strapped for time or not ready to go to the top you can choose the Express or Sampler options which are shorter. Prices vary depending on the climb you choose – it is definitely an experience you cannot miss! For more information, visit this link.

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Sydney Tower
Visit Sydney’s tallest building and enjoy immaculate 360-degree city views. Higher than the Harbour Bridge, the Sydney Tower’s SKYWALK tour takes you out on to the observation deck to see all the way around the city. If you’re not up for making the walk outside (or you love to dine with a view), make sure you stop by the revolving Sydney Tower Buffet restaurant where you’ll be able to enjoy all the views as you eat. The Sydney Tower also holds different events, including a silent disco for Vivid which starts soon if you’re looking for a unique and fun experience. We recommend booking tickets online in advance before you go to avoid the queues for this popular attraction.
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Circular Quay
Right down by the harbour, Circular Quay has a number of spots to see some spectacular views. Obviously, the Sydney Opera House is a must! Visit the famous landmark up close and personal or if you’re looking to get the whole building in your photo we recommend heading over to the other side of Circular Quay for the perfect pic. Here you can also find the Museum of Contemporary Art which has a rooftop café where you can dine whilst take in the views. There are also plenty of cafes, bars and restaurants on the walk in between the two buildings, including Opera Bar which has prime position to view Sydney’s amazing harbour.
Mrs Macquarie's Chair - Kay Adams Photo by Kay Adams

Royal Botanical Gardens & Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair
See views of the whole harbour from the Royal Botanical Gardens and Mrs Macquarie’s Chair. A great spot for walks and picnics – and AMAZING photos – the gardens are open all year round and are free to visit. See some beautiful flowers in the garden, before you head down by the water towards Mrs Macquarie’s Chair – a sandstone rock carved into the shape of a chair. With the Harbour Bridge and Opera House in full sight, this is definitely the money shot.

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Bondi Icebergs
Bondi Beach is the most famous beach in Sydney – and for good reasons! Stop by the Bondi Icebergs club to get full views of the beach and vibrant, blue water. One of Sydney’s most captured spots after the Harbour Bridge and Opera House, at Icebergs you can swim in the pool, dine upstairs in their restaurant or just stop by to snap this stunning view whilst in Bondi.

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Taronga Zoo
Meet some furry friends and learn about some of Australia’s native species, all while taking in the views of the harbour from the north side of Sydney. Taronga Zoo is a must whilst you’re here – and they offer student discounts for tickets (just make sure you bring your Student ID along). To have an extra special experience and take in more of the view, try out their high ropes course or stay the night and do the Roar and Snore where you can wake up with the animals overlooking the harbour.

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The Manly Ferry
Now you have to take a ride on the Manly ferry (and visit Manly Beach of course!). Get on at Circular Quay and make sure you get a seat outside, so you can wave goodbye to the harbour as you make your way to Sydney’s northern beaches. You’ll get to see some beautiful spots on the journey over. On your return, try to come back for sunset – there is nothing more beautiful than seeing it set over the city skyline.
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Watson’s Bay
A magnificent spot in Sydney’s east, the views at Watson’s Bay are a must-see. Easy to get to via public transport, Watson’s Bay is located on the South Head peninsula next to Vaucluse and not too far from Bondi. Here you can take your pick of activities – with the beach, walking trails, waterfront restaurants and bars, tours to learn about the Aboriginal culture of the land and the Dunbar lighthouse, there is something for everyone.

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Luna Park
Head over the bridge to Milson’s Point for some fun at Luna Park. Ride roller coasters and Ferris wheels whilst taking in the beautiful views. It’s free to enter the park, you’ll just need to pay for the rides (which are SO much fun). Fun to visit at night, you can see this city skyline light up. With Vivid coming up, the park will light up at night, along with other parts of the harbour – a sight you don’t want to miss!

10 Fun Things to do in Sydney for Free

The article is written by Paige Murphy

Looking for something fun to do in Sydney? There is so much to see and do here! If you’re on a tight budget or feeling a bit broke (what student isn’t?!), then don’t stress – there are plenty of activities that won’t require a single cent from you. Here are our top ten fun activities to do for free in Sydney.

@simonrae
1. Catch some waves at Bondi Beach
It’s Australia’s most famous beach – this stop off is a must. The beach stretches from the North Bondi grassy knoll (a great spot for picnics) all the way around to Icebergs (aka the best spot to snap for your Instagram). Have a dip in the water but make sure you stay between the red and yellow flags – or you might end up on Bondi Rescue!

@matthewkane
2. Do a coastal walk
One of the perks to living in Sydney is being right by the ocean. This means we have so many beautiful coastal walks you can do with stunning views. Our favourites are the Bondi to Coogee and the Spit to Manly. The Bondi to Coogee not only offers amazing views but if you don’t feel like walking the whole way or feel like a dip you can stop off at any of the beaches in between like Tamarama, Bronte, Clovelly and Gordon’s Bay. The Spit to Manly is a much longer walk but well worth it, taking you along the coastline and through the national park. Just make sure you take some water and comfortable walking shoes with you!

@s_erwin
3. Have a picnic in the Royal Botanical Gardens
Okay, so the picnic part might cost you extra (unfortunately, cheese isn’t free) but the location itself is free for you to visit. Make sure you check out the Rose Garden before picking a spot for your picnic down by the water. You’ll have the best views of the harbour and all the pretty flowers to stare at.

@photoholgic
4. Walk across the Harbour Bridge (via the pedestrian route)
So walking over the actual bridge costs money but to walk across it via the pedestrian path is completely free. Get up close and personal with our most famous landmark and see some spectacular views of Sydney from it. Depending on which way you are walking, you can also stop by the Rocks on the city side or head to Luna Park for fun and games over in North Sydney.

@steve_j
5. Visit an art gallery
Sydney has some great art galleries that showcase a wide variety of local and international art – and the good news is, most exhibitions are free! Stop by the Art Gallery of NSW and see some of their free exhibitions that range from traditional Aboriginal art to Asian art. For bigger exhibitions like the Archibald prize, you will have to pay but they are well worth the visit. Head over to the Museum of Contemporary Art if you like cool installations, multimedia works and post-modern art. To see some really personal works by one Australia’s most well-known artists, Brett Whiteley, head to his gallery in Surry Hills. For more information, click here.

@jontyson
6. Stop by the markets
There are SO many great markets on the weekends in Sydney and they are all free… until you can’t resist buying something cool you have seen them! On Saturday’s you have Glebe and Paddington markets whilst Rozelle and Bondi run all weekend. You’ll be able to find everything from new and vintage clothing, accessories, furniture and homewares, food, art and other little trinkets or second-hand goods.

@georgewolf
7. Go whale watching
I guess you have to be lucky with this one but the best spot to see them is up on Sydney’s Northern Beaches between May and November. Head up to Palm Beach to see them where you can also do the beautiful walk up to Barrenjoey Lighthouse, and visit where Home and Away is filmed (if you’re lucky you might even see some of it!).
8. See a classical music concert
If you like classical music, then you’ll love the free concerts put on at the Conservatorium of Music. See some of Sydney’s best musical talent perform in lunchtime and evening concerts. The Conservatorium is right by the Royal Botanical Gardens – so you can have your picnic before or after your visit. To see what is on at The Con, click here.

newtown streetart
9. Check out some street art
Sydney’s Inner West is full cool, hip bars and cafes… and amazing street art! Take a walk through the streets of Newtown to see lanes filled with cool art. There are tours available if you would like to know more about the art, or you can have a look here and take yourself on a tour. No two artworks are the same!

@theformfitness
10. Take a yoga class
Did someone say free yoga? Yes, we did. Lululemon stores hold free yoga classes in-store. Suitable for all levels, if you’re looking to practice but don’t want to (or can’t afford to) pay $20+ for a class, then this is for you. Have a look at their store locator to find your nearest store and when classes are held. Be sure to get there early if you don’t have your own mat as the classes are really popular!

HOW TO MEET NEW PEOPLE WHILE STUDYING ABROAD

Leaving family and friends behind and pursuing your dream and future in a strange country can be a pretty tough task. However, the entire process of getting the hang of your surrounding is not that difficult, especially when you’re moving to Australia where the friendly locals never fail to make you feel at home.

By further following these tips you can get an idea how to approach new people and make some amazing friends.

SA_people3

1. Look out for new friends in your class
There is no need to hesitate in making an approach or fearing rejection as usually at the university level, many students sitting around you are equally nervous. In fact, you will be surprised at the enthusiastic response you will receive once you make the friendly move.
Being a loner never helps whether you’re a quiet person or a chatterbox. It’s beneficial when you have many friends around to talk to about various subjects. You can start by discussing your assignments, projects or even class lectures with the Australians students around you.

SA_people

2. Join the campus clubs
The best part about studying in Australia is that you have enormous opportunities to socialize with students studying with you and making new friends. Joining a club at your campus could be of great help as it provides you with the chance to mingle with people with common interest.
Also, with having nothing to do at your hostel than to study, these campus clubs could be a tremendous extracurricular and fun activity that you could indulge in.

SA_people4

3. Spend more time outdoors
It’s easier to avoid the alienated surroundings and people and hide away in your homestay. However, that does not help you to progress any further. Although studying indoors is important, spending some time out is also beneficial to drive away the loneliness.
Hang around the Playfair Café or the famous Bourke Street Bakery for its yummy sausage rolls. These places are both cheap and a perfect pool of your potential new friends!

SA_people2

4. Explore the city
If you are going to spend the next few years in Sydney, you might as well explore the city too. Whenever you have long weekends, make sure you plan your trips to the Bondi Beach with your friends or better yet, see the iconic Sydney Opera House. Places like these are always crowded and filled with opportunities to socialize to the fullest.
So if you are planning to study in Sydney, then remember these tips to make new friends and get more comfortable and accustomed to the new city.

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