Sydney Christmas Markets & Fare

Photo by James Horan and courtesy of Sydney Living Museums

Christmas Fare at Hyde Park Barracks Museum

Christmas is a busy time for families in Sydney with loads of festive events to choose from. This December, the Hyde Park Barracks Museum will also join in the festive celebrations with their Christmas Fare. This event showcases seasonal, sustainable and locally made food which are hand-crafted by over 40 of Sydney's best artisans, producers, chefs and urban farmers. They will be serving up delicious baked, pickled, smoked, crafted and poured delights.

Some of the highlights include charcuterie from Steph's Gourmet Foods, cheese by Pecora Dairy, Pepe Saya's Australian cultured butter, traditionally crafted loaves from The Bread & Butter Project, authentic New York bagel from the Brooklyn Boy Bagels, Carlson's Handcrafted organic fruit cordials and conserves, classic crumbles by the Dessertmakers, Christmas pudding to rival grandma's from PUD Inc, tea blends from The Vegan Teahouse and many others.

Photo courtesy of Sydney Living Museums

In addition to the sampling and shopping, you can head over to the pop-up bar and food stalls. Gourmet food available include fragrant Vietnamese broth from Bar Pho, a reworked American classic by the boys from The Nighthawk Diner, and succulent glazed ham rolls from sustainable meat providores Feather and Bone. There's also the the Hyde Park Barracks Café for more choices.

For a gold coin donation, you can visit Christmas Fare and source unique festive food and gifts for your own Christmas celebrations. Your gold coin also grants you access into the World Heritage listed Hyde Park Barracks Museum.

When: 4pm - 8pm
Phone: 02 8239 2311
Where: Hyde Park Barracks Museum
Cost: Gold coin donation
Website: sydneylivingmuseums.com.au/events/christmas-fare-artisan-food-gifts-your-festive-table
Source: http://www.weekendnotes.com/christmas-fare-hyde-park-barracks-museum/



Twilight Christmas Markets

St John's Anglican Church Darlinghurst is holding its annual Twilight Christmas Markets on Thursday 11 December 2014, from 5pm to 10pm.

This festive market will transform St John's Darlinghurst to a Christmas wonderland, bringing the excitement and anticipation of Christmas to Darlinghurst with its collection of local market stalls offering a variety of unique Christmas gifts. Whilst browsing and shopping you can enjoy live music performances and rest and refuel with some festive food at the food stalls.

There will also be entertainers performing around the market and a range of interactive activities, including a petting zoo and the rare opportunity to ride a camel just as the Wise Men did so many years ago!

Don't miss out on this fun community event. It has something for everyone.
So come along and bring some friends along to enjoy live music, great food and market stalls where you can get your Christmas shopping done early.

When: Thursday 11 December 2014, 5pm to 10pm
Where: St. John's Darlinghurst
Cost: FREE
Website: www.stjohnsanglican.org.au
Source: http://www.weekendnotes.com/st-johns-darlinghurst-twilight-christmas-market/

Easter Family Hot Deal - at Aspire Hotel Sydney

Easter Family Hot Deal - at Aspire Hotel Sydney

Aspire Hotel Sydney is conveniently located in a quiet Ultimo street. Ideal for families, we’re just a short walk to nearby attractions such as the Powerhouse Museum, Ian Thorpe Aquatic Centre, Paddy’s Market, Chinatown and the Qantas Credit Union Arena. Accommodation consists of spacious and quiet rooms with a private balcony, some offering city views.

Enjoy a family getaway with our great value Easter Family Hot Deal from $145 per night.

Package includes:

• DVD player hire with 2 complimentary DVDs
• Aspire Easter chocolate bag
• Private balcony
• Children under 12 years stay free

Book now for Easter: http://www.aspire-hotel-sydney.bookings.metrohotels.com.au/easter-family-hot-deal-accommodation

Terms and conditions may apply, please see booking page for further details.

Easter Breaks Hot Deal - at Metro Apartments on Darling Harbour

Easter Breaks Hot Deal - at Metro Apartments on Darling Harbour

Treat the family to an Easter Break at Metro Apartments on Darling Harbour including a complimentary box of chocolates on arrival, and an upgrade to an Executive Apartment with Darling Harbour views, subject to availability.

Package includes:

• Our loft style apartments are fully serviced with plenty of room to relax and enjoy your stay. The bedroom and bathroom is located on the mezzanine level, flowing down to a fully equipped kitchen, lounge and balcony downstairs. 
• Complimentary WiFi
• Nearby Darling Harbour attractions are the Sydney Aquarium, IMAX, Australian National Maritime Museum, Tumbalong Park for concerts and events, and many more

Book now for Easter: http://www.sydney-metro-apartments-darling-harbour.bookings.metrohotels.com.au/easter-breaks-hot-deal-accommodation

Terms and conditions may apply, please see booking page for further details.

Easter Holiday Family Package - at Metro Hotel Sydney Central

Easter Holiday Family Package - at Metro Hotel Sydney Central

This Easter we have the best school holiday deal.  Our Easter Holiday Family Package is terrific value.

Package includes:

• Stay at Metro Hotel Sydney Central and take advantage of our family-friendly accommodation that includes two double beds (for two adults & two children 0-12 years)  
• Complimentary welcome Easter treats upon arrival 
• Complimentary WiFi
• Plus the family can enjoy a full buffet breakfast daily

Book now for Easter: http://www.metro-hotel-central-sydney.bookings.metrohotels.com.au/easter-holiday-family-package-hot-deal-accommodation

Terms and conditions may apply, please see booking page for further details.

Easter Family Getaway - at Metro Hotel on Pitt

Easter Family Getaway - at Metro Hotel on Pitt

Treat the family with our Easter Family Getaway from $310 per night.

Package includes:

• Accommodation in a Superior Queen & Single room for up to 2 adults & 2 children
• Easter chocolates on arrival, complimentary Wifi
• Sydney Attractions family pass (two adults & two children 0-12 years) to your choice of any two attractions including: Sydney Tower Eye; Sea Life Sydney Aquarium; Madame Tussauds; Wild Life Sydney Zoo; Manly Sea Life Sanctuary

Book now for Easter: http://www.metro-hotel-on-pitt.bookings.metrohotels.com.au/easter-family-getaway-hot-deal-accommodation

Terms and conditions may apply, please see booking page for further details.

Sydney’s New Year's Eve 2014 Fireworks Display

The annual Sydney New Year’s Eve fireworks are about as good an advert for the city as it is possible to have.

Paid for by the local Sydney government, the spectacular display is one of the first New Year’s celebrations to be beamed around the globe every year.

The municipal authorities, not generally known for their modesty when it comes to Sydney’s charms, describe their city as “the New Year's Eve Capital of the World” – and they’re quite right in this instance. Each year brings a different (fairly broad) theme. Last year was “Shine”, the previous year was “Embrace”, and this year it is “Inspire”. 

It truly is one of the most memorable places you will find anywhere to welcome in the New Year, with the balmy Australian summer and the wonderful harbour setting making it ideal for spending the build-up outdoors in convivial company.

That said, its popularity does create its own problems – with some areas around the harbour throbbing with crowds. With a little bit of planning and insider knowledge, you can make sure you find the ideal spot to see in the New Year 2015.

Do I need a ticket?

The short answer is no. If you don't want to pay, you don't have to - there are plenty of vantage points that do not require payment. However, there are many ticketed events, many of which will be booked up well in advance. See here for the full rundown of what’s going on.

Many places will already have sold out – some of them with astonishing price tags.

When are the displays?

It’s not such a stupid question. There are, in fact, two firework displays in the Sydney. The first is at 9pm, a “family fireworks” event before the main event at midnight. If for some reason you’d rather watch the main event from your hotel television with children tucked up in bed (good luck with that), the early showing will allow you to get back.

Where should I watch it?

The "front row seats" – the area around Circular Quay and the Botanical Gardens – inevitably are the most popular. Many old Sydney-siders think you get a better perspective from the North Shore, as well as marginally less competition for a patch of grass to watch the show.

Those who like to toast the coming year should note that many vantage points do not allow any fizz (including the Central Business District). Some include alcohol in their ticket price. Others do not allow Bring Your Own (BYO) alcohol. If this is a New Year prerequisite for you, be sure to check.

On the water

Alternatively you could take a Harbour Cruise(newyearsevecruise.com.au). Note that you’ll be on the boat for a long evening – typically, setting off at 6pm and you usually have to bring your own food but you’ll have a great, uncrowded, view of the fireworks.

When should I arrive?

Get there early, or miss out (picture: Getty Images)

The broad advice is simply to get there early or you will miss out. Competition for spaces can be fierce. People even start camping out the day before the event in some places. Even in areas where pressure to bag a spot is less intense, plan on spending most of the day there - by noon, many places will already be full. The vantage points information on the official website will have live updates on whether or not they have reached capacity.

Specific information on vantage points will be published on the main website in November: Sydney New Year vantage points

Transport

Don’t even think about driving. Sydney – never the best city for traffic – is simply nightmarish at this time of year due to road closures and crowds.

Extra public transport is in operation to get spectators home after the event. Again, it’s worth planning your journey in advance. Do so attransportnsw.info.

The official Sydney New Year's Eve website also allows you to sign up for updates about road closures and transport disruption.

View Source

Walking With Dinosaurs | Sydney

WALKING WITH DINOSAURS – The Arena Spectacular

After a worldwide tour seen by over 8 million people in 243 cities, the stunning theatrical event WALKING WITH DINOSAURS – The Arena Spectacular is coming to Australia for a strictly limited tour! 

Internationally renowned designers have worked with scientists to create 20 life-size dinosaurs, including the terror of the ancient terrain, Tyrannosaurus-rex! Be amazed and thrilled as the greatest creatures ever to walk the earth return before your eyes.  It’s a dazzling $20 million arena spectacle of unprecedented size and quality set to captivate young and old alike. 

Marvel at the story of their 200 million year domination of life on earth. Watch them walk. Hear the roar. Be there as they fight for survival and supremacy. From the ripple of their skin to the glint in their eye, you will know the dinosaurs have really returned! 

Don’t wait another 65 million years until they’re back! 
Book now before they’re extinct.


EVENT SCHEDULE:

Wed 18 Mar 7:00pm
Thu 19 Mar 11:00am & 7:00pm
Fri 20 Mar 7:00pm
Sat 21 Mar 11:00am, 3:00pm & 7:00pm
Sun 22 Mar 11:00am & 3:00pm

EVENT LOCATION: Allphones Arena

#dinosaurs #showsaustralia #sydney #walkingwithdinosaurs #dinosaurssydney

Family Getaway at Metro Hotel Ipswich International

Family Getaway at Metro Hotel Ipswich International

Enjoy a family getaway this summer at Metro Hotel Ipswich International.
Terrific value at just $150 per night including a full buffet breakfast (for up to 4 guests) in our own Platform 9 Restaurant and accommodation in a self-contained, family-friendly apartment.

Featuring a kitchenette with dishwasher, LCD TV with DVD player and Foxtel, minibar and complimentary Wifi, they are the ideal choice for families visiting Ipswich.
Complimentary car parking is also available on site.

Book this Family Getaway Accommodation Hot Deal Now 

http://www.metro-hotel-ipswich-international.bookings.metrohotels.com.au/family-getaway-hot-deal-accommodation

Easter Breaks at Metro Hotels and Apartments

Easter Breaks at Metro Hotels and Apartments

Planning an Easter holiday in Sydney with kids is easy.  There are so many family friendly attractions and activities that can be enjoyed.  Don’t miss the iconic Royal Easter Show, being held in the Sydney Showground at Olympic Park from 26th March to the 8th April 2015.

This is the time of the year when the country comes to the city, displaying the best of agriculture, produce, animals of all kinds and time to enjoy hours of fun with carnival rides and entertainment.

The Royal Easter show is Australia’s largest annual event attracting up to 900,000 during the period it is run every year.  It is a show rich in heritage having begun in Sydney in 1823 and is as popular as when it first started.

Metro Hotels and Apartments are offering Easter ‘Hot Deals’ at their Sydney properties over the Easter period.   All Deals are valid from 01 to 30 April 2015 and is subject to availability.

Easter Break Hot Deal at Metro Apartments on Darling Harbour

Accommodation in a Loft Style apartment for up to 2 adults and 2 children

• Complimentary WiFi
• Easter chocolates on arrival
• Minimum 2 nights stay

From $209.00 per room per night

BOOK NOW

Easter Family Deal at Aspire Hotel Sydney

Accommodation in a Standard room for up to 2 adults and 2 children

• DVD player hire with 2 complimentary DVDs
• Easter chocolate bags

From $145.00 per room per night

BOOK NOW

Easter Holiday Family Deal at Metro Hotel Sydney Central

Accommodation in a Superior room for up to 2 adults and 2 children

• Complimentary WiFi
• Easter chocolates on arrival
• Buffet breakfast for 2 adults and 2 children

From $215.00 per room per night

BOOK NOW

Easter Family Getaway at Metro Hotel on Pitt

Accommodation in a Superior room for up to 2 adults and 2 children

• Complimentary WiFi
• Easter chocolates on arrival
• Choice of 2 attraction tickets for 2 adults and 2 children (Madame Tussauds, SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, Manly SEA LIFE Sanctuary, Sydney Tower Eye, Wildlife Sydney Zoo)

From $310.00 per room per night

BOOK NOW

Take advantage of the special ticket prices that can be obtained from Metro Hotel on Pitt, to visit a number of the attractions in Darling Harbour, or catch a ferry to Luna Park, Taronga Zoo and Manly.  For the not so light headed, be game and venture out on the Skywalk at Sydney Tower, right in the middle of the city, for the best panoramic view of Sydney.

If you are visiting Sydney on a Sunday, ask about the Family Funday Sunday tickets that offer discounted travel for 2 adults and 2 children for only $2.50 per person. The ticket will take you anywhere in Sydney by public transport and even covers a day trip to the Blue Mountains and Central Coast.

For more information or to make a booking, please visit www.metrohotels.com.au or call the toll free number on 1800 004 321.

View full Easter specials: http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-12-15/hostages-sydney-cafe-martin-place-police-operation/5967232

Christmas Lights & Christmas Projections 2014

Courtesy of www.lightsofchristmas.com.au

Light of Christmas

A light of Christmas captures and celebrates the festive season of Christmas at St Marys Cathedral, Sydney's oldest and grandest Cathedral. The event is hosted by the Catholic Archdiocese of Sydney, and presented by the Australian Catholic University.

The Lights of Christmas begins each evening with the breathtaking sounds of a live choir performance, and just after dusk the Cathedral becomes a beautiful light show that is so mesmerising, it makes you not want to leave.

The live choir performance begins at 7:30pm and finishes at 8:30pm, do witness this as it is so magical and beautiful as well as the light show of course!

The light show continues on till midnight and is held at the forecourt of St Mary's Cathedral (opposite Hyde Park).

This spectacular free light and sound Christmas show consists of amazing 3D digital projections that illuminate the Cathedral's 75 metre high facade. It is a visual storytelling experience that is accompanied with a soundscape and narrative that resonates with the ideals of the Christmas season of peace, joy and goodwill.

This year's 12 days of Christmas theme as well as a collective Christmas presentation notion of 'service', offering an opportunity to value and honour those who serve the community.

This is truly one Christmas Light event you do not want to miss out on. So gather your family and friends and enjoy the festive spirit of Christmas.

When: 9-25 December: 7:30pm-12am
Phone: 02 8302 3800
Where: St Mary's Cathedral Courtyard, St Mary's Road, Sydney
Cost: Free
Website: http://www.weekendnotes.com/lights-of-christmas/

Town Hall Christmas Projections

Soak up the atmosphere as we illuminate the beautiful sandstone walls of Sydney Town Hall this Christmas. Watch in wonder, as every evening after sunset, the George Street facade of the building springs to life with spectacular light projections - while exciting new digital animation gets everyone into the spirit of the season in Sydney Square.

Head to the City after sunset and watch in wonder as the Town Hall facade springs to life with vivid light projections every evening. New in 2014, digital projections will also feature on buildings at the King Street entrance to Pitt Street Mall, transforming the area into a magical landscape.

When: Thu 27 Nov - Thu 25 Dec 2014
Time: 8:30pm - 1:00am
Where: Sydney Town Hall, Sydney
Cost: Free
Website: http://www.sydneychristmas.com.au/whatson/christmas-projections/

Darling Harbour Christmas

As Christmas fever starts to sprinkle the city with festive magic, so Darling Harbour transforms into a sea of red and white jolly men. Never before will you have seen so many Santas together and so many Santas having a whale of a time on the water, as you will during the free Santa Fest Water Spectacular in late November. But that's not all, because this spectacular event is just the start of 30 days of free Christmas fun in the lead up to the big day.

When: 1 December to 25 December  2014
Where: Darling Harbour, Sydney
Cost: Free
Website: http://www.darlingharbour.com/whats-on/christmas-in-darling-harbour.aspx

Towers of Tomorrow with Lego Bricks

Certified LEGO builder Ryan McNaught shows off his skills in this exhibition, recreating skyscraping buildings from Australia and Asia

Towers of Tomorrow with LEGO® Bricks is a world premiere exhibition of astonishing LEGO skyscrapers at the Museum of Sydney.

Constructed by Ryan McNaught, one of only 12 LEGO® certified professionals worldwide, this exhibition celebrates tall and extraordinary buildings from Australia and Asia. Some are engineering head-turners while others are technical marvels. 

Some of these eye-popping giants, like the Shanghai Tower, pioneer new ways of living, while others like Singapore's Marina Bay Sands are instant global landmarks. Some are green, others lean. Some are strange and other-worldly, others are breathtakingly beautiful.

With several models standing over 3 metres high, with stunning architectural detail and playful use of colours and textures, each of these LEGO® structures is guaranteed to amaze. They'll also inspire the young and the young-at-heart to create their own ‘towers of tomorrow’

With over 200,000 loose LEGO® bricks on hand, you’ll have more than enough to build your own towering creation and add it to the colourful futuristic metropolis rising steadily in the heart of the exhibition.

“Like the real things, super-tall LEGO® buildings are truly inspirational,” says Mark Goggin, director of Sydney Living Museums, “Not only do Ryan's models prove what's possible with everyday LEGO®bricks, but experiencing so many of them together in a world first line-up, perched together side by side, is nothing short of mind-blowing, even at 1:200 scale.”

Ryan McNaught agrees, “it's by far the biggest building job I've ever faced and certainly the most fun. My head's still spinning.”


SNAP & SHARE TO WIN


Get creative in the exhibition for your chance to win a workshop with Ryan McNaught, a LEGO®Certified Professional. Simply snap a pic of you and you LEGO® bricks masterpeice while you're at the exhibition and share via your favourite social network with the tag #SLMtowers for a chance to win this hands-on workshop for you and five friends.

Terms & Conditions apply.

BECOME A MEMBER AND ENJOY THE BENEFITS

As a Sydney Living Museums Member you'll enjoy exclusive membership benefits, including priority access, behind-the-scene events, discounts, advanced ticket sales to select events and much more.

Special Member benefits for 'Towers of Tomorrow with LEGO® bricks' are:
Special Members price of only $5 - save $10
Access to pre-sale tickets on 19 November – book the session you want
Special Members ONLY preview day 12 December – be the first to see the exhibition

View Source to Book this Event Now

Ricciardo revved up for F1 Melbourne

Ricciardo revved up for F1 Melbourne

Australian superstar Daniel Ricciardo was in Melbourne today to launch the 2015 Formula 1® Australian Grand Prix, as the event prepares to celebrate a milestone of two decades in Melbourne on 12-15 March.

Ricciardo took to the steps of the iconic Flinders Street Station, posing for photos alongside a Formula One car in an Australian Flag design, as excitement builds ahead of the event.

The spectacular Albert Park street circuit will again play host to the season opener of the 2015 FIA Formula One World Championship™ – with the V8 Supercars  once again part of the line-up – and Ricciardo believes the opening weekend in Melbourne is easily the most anticipated of the year.

"The Formula 1® Australian Grand Prix is pretty much the best way to start the season for me. It's one of my favourite events, not just because it's on home soil but because it's the first race, the first time you really get to put everything on the table and see where you stack up," Ricciardo said.

"The last year has been an incredible year for me, I couldn't have wished for a better start to my career with Infiniti Red Bull Racing. The fans and the support we get at the Australian GP is incredible and last year I definitely felt it on track. I'm looking forward to getting out there already – I'm excited!"

The Minister for Tourism & Major events, the Hon. John Eren MP, was also in attendance – he said the event is a proud part of Victoria's major events calendar.

"As the Formula 1® Australian Grand Prix prepares to stage its 20th consecutive race since it came to Melbourne in 1996; there is no question that the event holds huge value to the State. This significant milestone is a timely reminder of how truly entrenched this event is in the social, cultural and sporting fabric of the city,” Minister Eren said.

"We are delighted the Formula 1® Australian Grand Prix has been secured until 2020, the benefits to the tourism industry and the economy are indisputable. The global broadcast of the race is the perfect platform to showcase Melbourne to the world, with images of our stunning city skyline and parklands shown to millions across the globe.”

Australian Grand Prix Corporation Chairman, Mr Ronald J Walker AC CBE, said with the most promising local driver in decades set to line up on the grid; anticipation for the 2015 event is particularly high.

"We have an exceptional talent in Daniel Ricciardo; his fighting spirit and infectious smile have captured the imagination of all Australians. He has built on the strong foundations of Mark Webber, and we are incredibly fortunate to have the privilege of seeing him challenge the world's very best on home soil this March,” Mr Walker said.

Sunday General Admission tickets purchased before 1 March, 2015 are available at the early bird price of just $79. For more information, visit www.grandprix.com.au

5 Seconds of Summer (5SOS) Australia Show Tou

Hot on the heels of selling out two shows at London's iconic Wembley Arena, the chart-topping Sydney boys are heading out on the road to play their first-ever headline Australian arena shows, touring in support of their recently released self-titled #1 smash hit debut album - not bad for four teenagers from the Western suburbs of Sydney. 

5 Seconds of Summer (5SOS) – Luke, Calum, Michael and Ashton, started the month with an incredible five songs in the top 50 of the ARIA single chart: double platinum debut and worldwide iTunes #1 She Looks So Perfect, UK #2 Don't Stop, Amnesia, Kiss Me Kiss Me and Everything I Didn't Say. The lyric video for their upcoming single, Amnesia, has already had more than 5.7 million views.

5SOS are a worldwide success with more than 92 million views on YouTube, more than five million fans on Facebook, a combined 15-million-plus Twitter followers and more than 1.75 million followers on Instagram.

Australia Tour Dates:

Allphones Arena, Sydney NSW  Sat 20 Jun
Brisbane Entertainment Centre, QLD  Tue 23 Jun
Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne VIC  Thu 25 Jun
Adelaide Entertainment Centre, SA  Sat 27 Jun
Perth Arena, WA   Mon 29 Jun

Ideal Show Accommodation | Metro Hotels

About 5SOS (5 Seconds of Summer)

Formed in Sydney in 2011, the band consists of Luke Hemmings (lead vocals, guitar), Michael Clifford (guitar, vocals), Calum Hood (bass guitar, vocals) and Ashton Irwin (drums, vocals). The group were originally YouTube celebrities, posting videos of themselves covering songs from various artists in 2011. 

From there, they gained a small following in 2012 after posting a series of cover versions of popular songs ontoYouTube, then rose to international fame when One Direction invited them on their Take Me Home Tour.

Jessica Mauboy Celebrates Launch of free Australia Day Concerts at Sydney Opera House

The iconic Opera House will serve as the picturesque location for Australia Day celebrations in 2015.

To amp up the atmosphere, two free concerts will be held on January 26 with approximately 7,000 free tickets available to the public via ballot.

Popular children's group The Wiggles will be one of the main acts on the festive day, with another concert consisting of favourite Aussie performers, including Jessica, Justice Crew and Geronimo hit makers, Sheppard.

Actress Jessica has already performed at the Opera House and has fond memories of the venue.

'It was of course where the Australian Idol Grand Final took place in November 2006 and it was on the steps of the Sydney Opera House that I performed my first Number One single Burn,' the former reality TV star recalled.

'To be invited back to this amazing Australian landmark to perform is a wonderful opportunity.' 

Justice Crew also have an interesting link with the location, having previously busked outside the famed structure.

'One of our first career highlights was to actually be invited to perform at the Sydney Opera House as Janet Jackson’s opening act,' the group revealed.

'To be at the Sydney Opera House on Australia Day is a real magic moment and we will rise to the occasion with our performance!

Jessica is no stranger to public performances, having recently put on an energetic show at the ARIA music awards last month.

Putting her powerful voice to good use, the musician took to the stage in a strapless blue jumpsuit covered in sequins.

She performed her latest hit Can I Get a Moment, which has achieved gold sales in just over a month.

Despite her star status, Ms Mauboy failed to take out any awards after being nominated for Album of the Year, Best Female Artist and Best Video. 

Although she didn't walk away with a trophy this year, Jessica took out Best Female Artist last year and Highest Selling Single for Running Back in 2009.

Spectacular Sydney Christmas Lights and Decorations 2014

by Ivana Katz

When: 3 November - 25 December
Website: www.sydneychristmas.com.au
Where: Sydney CBD
Cost: Mostly free

Don't Miss Out on The Fabulous Free Fun!

For the past few years my friends and I have packed up the kids and ventured into Sydney CBD to see the Christmas lights and decorations. And even though the venues we visit have remained the same, there is always something new and exciting to explore.

Seeing Christmas lights through children's eyes is magical – that is if you can drag them away from all the toy and game displays. This year Christmas is going to be no different. Here are some of our favourite spots to visit:


1. Queen Victoria Building

Christmas at the QVB is always spectacular. Not only do you get to see the beautiful sparkly tree which rises through several floors, but all the stores are cheerfully decorated and the atmosphere is warm and cosy. If you are lucky, you may even get to see street performers or appearances by fabulous guests, such as Jessica Mauboy who appeared a couple of years ago.

If you have young children, head to the Swarovski Crystal Garden for Christmas and have photos taken with Santa. With over 12,000 crystal ornaments, forestry and traditional Santa settings, this will be one photo session your kids won't quickly forget. As this is a very popular destination, it is recommended you get there early, particularly on the weekends.

Dates: 8 November – 24 December
Address: Queen Victoria Building, George Street, Sydney

2. Martin Place Christmas Tree

Each year the tree decorations are amazing and this year promises to add an extra dimension. Share the Christmas spirit by sending text messages to 0427 840 851 or #sydxmastree and your special wish will be displayed on the branches of the tree.

Dates: Thursday 27 November – Thursday 25 December 2014

Address: Martin Place, Sydney

To kick off the festivities, on Thursday 27 November from 6pm – 8.30pm you can also enjoy a family friendly Christmas Concert which features characters from Sesame Street, Lah Lah's Big Live Band and naturally the guy in the red suit is making an appearance.

3. David Jones Window Display

Always a remarkable treat, the David Jones Window Display offers new surprises each Christmas season. This year you can see the much loved displays from Tuesday 3 November – 25 December.

Have Santa photos taken in the new enchanted Magic Cave world. Transport yourself into one of many Christmas scenes using green screen and even have your Santa Photo experience on DVD. Bookings can be made online or instore.

If you have a feathered, fluffy or furry friend, bring them along for a happy Santa photo too.

David Jones Santa has joined the mobile trend and has created his own Santa app. Download the David Jones Magic Santa app and put yourself into the scene with an interactive Christmas experience with Santa and his Reindeer.

From 11 December to 24 December the David Jones Staff Choir perform each day for 30 minutes from 9am. Their special Christmas Eve performance begins at 8am.

Date: 3 November – 25 December 2014
Address: Elizabeth Street, Sydney


4. Hyde Park

Sydney's iconic Hyde Park is a wonderful place to walk through at night with its many fairy lights and Christmas tree decorations.

On Thursday 27 November from 6pm – 8.30pm enjoy a free family friendly Christmas concert. Your kids will love entertainment by Tom & Jerry, Hi-5 as well as craft activities, sausage sizzle, yummy ice cream and carols by Emma Pask and St Andrews Cathedral Choir.

Date: 27 November 2014 for Christmas concert, but decorations can be seen throughout the Christmas season

Address: Hyde Park, Elizabeth Street, Sydney

5. Town Hall

Watch the historic Town Hall come alive with unbelievable light projections every night from 8.30pm to 1am.

On Tuesday 16 December 2014 Town Hall puts on a Christmas concert from 8pm to 9.30pm. Cost is $15 for adults and $12 for children. Tickets sell out quickly, so make sure you book now at the City Recital Hall.


6. Strand Arcade and Pitt Street Mall

Stroll through Strand Arcade and admire lovely Christmas decorations. Take a break in one of Strand Arcade or Pitt Street Mall cafes and enjoy delicious Christmas treats or take in the many free shows put on by local street performers.

Address: The Strand Arcade between Pitt Street & George Street, Sydney


Source: http://www.weekendnotes.com/spectacular-sydney-christmas-lights-and-decorations/

Summer Sporting Extravaganza to Boost Australian Economy

In Australia, summer is all about sport. This season the addition of two major international events to the calendar is a big bonus, not just for sports lovers but for the economy as well.

Australians who don't enjoy sport turn off the television and head for the beach at this time of year.

For everyone else, there's a smorgasbord of Test and one-day cricket, PGA golf, an internationally famous yacht race, a grand slam tennis event, cycling and Formula One races.

The country is set to enjoy an unprecedented quantity of world sport worth an estimated A$320m ($267m; £172m) to the economy thanks to the addition of two major events.

The Asian Football Confederation Asian Cup - being held across five cities in January - and the International Cricket Council (ICC) World Cup, which will be played in Australia and New Zealand in February and March, eclipse other events in size and dollar value.

The Asian Cup is the biggest sporting event in Asia and the cricket World Cup is the third biggest sporting event in the world after the summer Olympics and the FIFA World Cup.

Australia's summer of sport

• December 9 - January 10: Four cricket Test matches, Australia v India.
• December 11-14: Australian PGA golf Royal Pines Resort, Gold Coast.
• December 26-30: Sydney to Hobart yacht race.
• January 9 - January 31, 2015: Asian Football Confederation Asian Cup.
• January 16 - February 1: Cricket one-day international tri series, Australia, India and England.
• January 17-25: Tour Down Under cycling classic, Adelaide and South Australia.
• January 19 - February 1: Australian Open grand slam tennis, Melbourne.
• February 14 - March 29: ICC World Cup.
• March 12-15: Australian Grand Prix Formula One, Melbourne.

Every year, between 1 December and 1 April, there are five million tickets on sale for sport and entertainment events across New South Wales, according to state government body Destination NSW. For the same period in 2014-2015, there are eight million tickets on sale.

"That's what happens when you add an Asian Cup and a World Cup to the calendar," says Asian Cup chief executive officer Michael Brown. "There's going to be a lot more people spending a lot more dollars."

Test Cricket

Australia's golden summer begins with the first of four Test cricket matches between Australia and India on 9 December. The fixtures were rescheduled to start later in the month because of the sudden death in late November of 25-year old Australian Test player Phillip Hughes.

Golf

The first Test now clashes with the Australian PGA golf event, while the Sydney to Hobart yacht race - which organisers claim is the largest spectator sporting event in the world - competes with the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race

An estimated one million spectators will watch the start of the yacht race - about 300,000 of them from the water and another 700,000 lining Sydney's harbour and coastline, says chief executive officer of the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia, Mark Woolf.

Economic Ipmact

The economic impact, however, is incalculable, says Mr Woolf, because it is a free spectator event.

"The metrics that come out of this race are enormous," he says. "It's not a stadium event. We don't have a captive audience. But there are tentacles everywhere.

"There's the investment of transporting and accommodating 118 boats and crew for the start. The crews bring their friends and families. Then there's provisioning and fuelling and self-catering for spectator picnics.

"Even the NSW town of Eden gets an economic lift. It's the last safe harbour for boats to refuel and restock before crossing Bass Strait. Once they reach Hobart the boats and crews have to get back to Sydney.

"Then there's the impact of those TV pictures of a perfect Sydney harbour beaming into Europe and America in the middle of winter on their Christmas night. It's hard to quantify the publicity and future tourism impact."

Asia Cup Soccer

As the Test cricket ends the Asian Cup kicks off on 9 January, with 16 teams playing 32 matches in Brisbane, Newcastle, Sydney, Canberra and Melbourne.

According to Mr Brown, PricewaterhouseCoopers has said the event will pump A$225m into the economy. Asian Cup organisers target ticket sales of 500,000, with 50,000 international visitors expected to attend.

Three of Australia's top ten trading partners - China, Japan and South Korea - have qualified, which means hosting the Asia Cup is a unique tourism, trade and investment opportunity for the country and the region, he says.

"The Asian Cup is Asia's biggest sporting event and football is the biggest team sport and the most popular sport in Asia," Mr Brown says. "In Asia, football outstrips cricket as a sport."

Tourism Tsunami

But the Asian Cup will also have to compete for spectators and TV audiences with the Tour Down Under cycling classic in South Australia and the Australian Open grand slam tennis tournament in Melbourne.

ICC World Cup Cricket

Then, the biggest sporting event of the summer begins on 14 February. More than one million people are expected to attend 49 one-day matches featuring 14 teams playing in the ICC World Cup at venues in Australia and New Zealand.

ICC World Cup chief executive officer John Harnden says 500,000 tickets have already been sold and tens of thousands of international spectators are expected to attend, creating a tourism tsunami between the two countries.

"There will be a lot of travel between Australia and New Zealand, and then India, the UK and the US are the three primary points of origin (for spectators)," says Mr Harnden.

"It is a great opportunity to showcase ourselves to the world and benefit from that great word of mouth from all those tens of thousands of tourists saying what a great time they had. If the Australian and New Zealand teams do well, that will be an even bigger bonus."

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