Sydney Exhibitions, Expos and Launches

Sydney exhibitions, expos and launches offers industry professionals the chance to update their knowledge of cutting edge industry practices, and make or strengthen already existing industry contacts as well.

Throughout the year, the City of Sydney holds various exhibitions, expos, launches and seminars designed to inform practitioners across multiple fields about the latest and emerging trends in their fields, bringing greener, safer and more thorough methods to light, and scope for those who are looking for an industry to move into to peruse and consider possible career options.

National Careers & Employment Expo

The National Careers & Employment Expo is Australia's largest careers & employment initiative!

The National Careers & Employment Expo provides the opportunity for students graduates, skilled and mature age workers and those looking for a career change to meet face to face with Australia's leading organisations, government bodies educational and training providers.

Let's Talk Business

The City of Sydney hosts four 'smart' business seminars aimed at providing tactical advice, resources and networks for small and medium businesses to succeed in the current economy.

Presented by key experts in the small and medium sized business field the Let's Talk Business training seminars will provide vital information for local businesses looking to network and strengthen their position, especially in these challenging economic conditions.

Smart 2009 Conference

Held every two years, Smart Conference is the largest supply chain and logistics event staged in Australia and is the major forum of its type in Asia-Pacific, for practitioners to share insight and knowledge on the latest supply chain challenges facing businesses worldwide.

The conference program will address issues of topical debate, concern and importance, and include several special interest streams. More than seventy local and international high profile experts in their field of practice will present around the theme, BRIDGING THE GAP with innovation & new business strategy.

ADMA Forum 2009

The ADMA Forum is an annual conference & exhibition on the very latest in suppliers, solutions and techniques for marketing professionals.

This conference programme is designed to help you sustain meaningful relationships. Australia's most innovative marketing and direct marketing suppliers are lining up to meet you at ADMA Forum 2009.

From printers and mailhouses to digital & mobile marketing agencies, ADMA Forum boasts over 100 exhibitors who will be on hand to show you the new solutions they've found to help you make greater connections with more and more customers.

SAUG Summit 2009

Join us for the Annual SAUG Summit 2009 where we will explore new developments, IT trends in the next year, how SAP customers can utilise the new functionality gained in their upgrade and how to progress from slowly sinking to winning the race!

To understand, plan and share the next steps for your organisation, Summit 2009 is the only conference this year that will provide you the information, contacts and action plans to move forward.

Ethical Investor Carbon Solutions Forum

Ethical Investor's 3rd annual conference and exhibition showcases strategies and solutions for reducing business carbon intensity.

This year we examine the latest developments in carbon offset standards and what is considered best practice in carbon reduction and efficiency - featuring leading companies already well-advanced on this journey.

The event will also explore what can be achieved in carbon reduction in light of the impending Garnaut Review.

Pharmacy Expo

Pharmacy Expo is the premier event in NSW and is firmly established on the pharmaceutical calendar. It's the annual event that provides pharmacists, proprietors and pharmacy personnel with interactive learning opportunities and access to over 100 trade displays.3 days of networking with Australia's leading health care educators and suppliers, all under one roof.

This 3-day event will provide a comprehensive educational program. Presented by experts in their field, visitors will be provided with the very latest in continuing professional education. Attendance at the Trade Expo is FREE and will showcase new products, services and health information (over 100 exhibitors).

Sydney Design 09

Welcome to Sydney's annual festival of design, presented by the Powerhouse Museum.

Find out what design means to you through a 17-day program encompassing exhibitions and events at the Museum and satellite venues all over Sydney.

Highlights this year include a series of special night openings to ignite the spirit of modernism and complement the new exhibition Modern times: the untold story of modernism in Australia.

Security Expo 2009

Australia's premier security event, Security 2009 Conference and Exhibtion is on August 24-26 at the Sydney Convention & Exhibition Centre. In an uncertain political and economic climate, Security 2009 Conference will highlight the importance of communication and cooperation in the security industry.

The comprehensive program will feature an engaging mix of presentations, case studies, panel discussions and workshops, with leading local and international security experts providing insight into a number of critical issues facing today’s security professionals.

Supported by the Australian Security Industry Association (ASIAL).

Flair Awards

An annual event which recognises the work that has been achieved by talented designers throughout Australia.

All tickets available from Chamber of Commerce, 140 Victoria Street Taree or Video Ezy, Victoria Street. Phone 02 6552 5699.

Import Export Show

Trade Australia and AZ Worldwide join forces to present the inaugural Import Export Show.

The 2009 Import Export Show is Australia's first exhibition dedicated to showcasing the full spectrum of services and support available to assist small to medium sized importers and exporters with their international business development.

The Import Export Show 2009 is a show for small and mid-sized business decision makers, across all industries, who are beginning to export or import or are already engaged in international trade.

Hong Kong-Australia Business Association NSW Chapter 2009 Awards

The Business Awards programme is organised to provide recognition and incentive to NSW individuals and companies who strive for excellence in all aspects of international trade between Australia and Hong Kong SAR/China.

The Business Awards has become a prestigious event within the NSW business community since its inception in 2000. This year, entrants will be competing in the following six categories and one Grand Prize.

China Australia Business Congress 2009

AC Events have announced the launch of the China Australia Business Congress 2009.

To be held on the 19/20 May in Sydney, to highlight opportunities for Australian businesses considering trading, importing, exporting, manufacturing/outsourcing and investing in the greater China region.

With China being the largest trading partner to Australia, it is important for SME business owners to understand how to export their goods/services into the region.

The Congress also serves as a valuable update for existing businesses already trading with China.

Visit this page for more Sydney exhibitions, expos and launches held throughout the year, or visit the OnlySydney What's On Events Calendar to search by a specific date or month.

Sydney Comedy Festival and Comedy Gigs

We turn our belly laughs now to Sydney comedy events in hearty preparation for the Sydney Comedy Festival.

The Festival begins next week (27 April - 17 May) and it couldn't have come at a better time. Amid the usual doom and gloom projected by the media, Sydney's ripe for a good giggle and the Sydney Comedy Festival along with the following comedy gigs are chomping at the bit to deliver!

The Sydney Comedy Festival showcases our brightest comic heroes from across Australia coupled with the best international gems on offer, plying its trade on Australia's most famous stages including the landmark Sydney Opera House and the iconic Enmore Theatre. Forget your cares and come and listen to the cares and demented musings of Australia' and the globe's funniest people.

All The Thoughts I've Had Since I Was Born

Perrier Award nominee and if.comedy award winner, Mark Watson in "All The Thoughts I've Had Since I Was Born". The comedian, author, sports pundit and husband will be delivering his latest show in May at the Enmore Theatre.

April Comedy at Randwick Rugby Club

April 30 - Catch Brett Nichols, Justin Jamieson and Tom Oakley for a night of April foolin'! Lots of laughs for only $10 with a free house drink at the Randwick Rugby Club.

Canned Laughter Comedy Night

On Friday 3 July the Hordern Pavilion will play host to the fourth annual Canned Laughter comedy night. The hottest talent in Australian comedy are on the bill, live on one stage, for one night, for one cause - CanTeen. Be part of the audience Read more..

Carlingford Bowling Club Comedy

May 29 - Carlingford Bowling Club hosts deadpan delight Bruce Griffiths, man about town Clint Paddison and comedy darling Dave Williams join forces for a giant night of laughs - all for only $5. Read more..

Comedy at Marble Bar

Every Tuesday! This historic heritage listed room is venturing into the comedy world and raising the Bar for the comedy scene by presenting a weekly Tuesday early evening show, 6.30 onward. Entry $15. Show meals available.

Comedy at the Gaelic

The last Tuesday of every month! A-List and The Gaelic combine to bring you Comedy at The Gaelic. You'll be mad and sad to miss this night filled with tear-inducing laughter.

Comedy on the Rox

Every Wednesday night, 8:00pm, at the Roxbury Hotel. Tickets: $15, or $12 with student card. Hit the link for more information.

Comicide - Death By Funny

"Outstanding sketch comedy... Highly recommended" - The Age. Sydney's longest running sketch show has returned from the Melbourne International Comedy Festival to sell-out crowds. With new sketches performed every show, the mix is fresh and fast.

Danny Bhoy

Scotland's Danny Bhoy returns to Sydney with a new show after a phenomenal year, which has seen him become one of the biggest acts on the international scene. Since last performing in Australia in 2007, Danny has completed a sold out tour of New Z Read more..

Full Body Contact No Love Tennis

Full Body Contact No Love Tennis is the best in improvised comedy theatre in Sydney. Every 1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month, pairs of Sydney's funniest improvising actors make up short plays and musicals based on audience suggestion. Past and c Read more..

Laughs in Liverpool

April 30 - Full on laughs with Subby Valentine, Gary Bradbury and Oliver for a tiny zero dollars at the Liverpool Hotel.

Monday Night Comedy

17 years and still going! The World Famous Monday Night Comedy @ the Fringe is bigger and better than ever. See some of Australia's best comedians and international stars. Livin' loud!! Every Monday Night @ The Fringe Bar.

Scared Scriptless Theatresports Comedy

Every Friday night teams of improvisers battle it out to win the love and laughs of a jovial audience in a plush, smoke-free venue, Bailey's Bar, The Clarence Hotel. Scared Scriptless - often exciting, often hilarious, always improvised!

The Wharf Revue

Riverside Theatres presents a brand new offering of sharp satire and edgy humour with the tenth annual season of the Sydney Theatre Company's THE WHARF REVUE from Tuesday 8 September for six performances only!

Visit our What's On Sydney Events Calendar for more information and events by date!

Sydney Women’s Clothing Stores and Fashion Palette

With the fashion event of the year approaching (the inaugural Fashion Palette), this weeks focus clearly has to fall on Sydney Womens Clothing Stores. But first, a bit about Fashion Palette itself.

Occurring in May 2009, the Australian fashion community will be the first to experience Fashion Palette, a new interactive fashion event. Twelve leading fashion designers will each share their personal career journeys and offer support and advice to the next generation in a World Wide Fashion Industry First!

Fashion Palette is aimed at providing an opportunity for Australia's next generation of fashion designers to learn from some of the worlds most inspirational fashionpreneurs in a two-day event. In addition to the two-days of presentations from leading fashion figures, Fashion Palette will host a design competition, catwalk show and after party, all designed to offer networking opportunities and to celebrate newly discovered talent.

Event Times:

• Day One - 1st May: 8.30am - 6.30pm

• Day Two - 2nd May: 10am - 6.30pm

Sydney Womens Clothing Stores

Sydney Womens Clothing Stores make Sydney the fashion state of Australia and Sydney women some of the most stylishly dressed women in the world. Sydney is Australia's Paris, and here's where to find some of this season's most stylish clothes, and dress to impress!

From Dotti to Barkins, read on to get your fashion chic kicks!

Akira Womens Clothing

Akira Isogawa has achieved international recognition for his exquisite contemporary designs, which are sought after in every major fashion capital throughout the world.

Since 1998, Akira has show his collections in Paris, where he presents Spring/Summer and Autumn/Winter collection to international buyers each year.

Akira continues to maintain a strong presence in Sydney, where he has shown collections at Mercedes Australian Fashion Week every year since 1996.

His work has been warmly received by fashion critics, drawing favourable reviews from leading figures such as Anna Piaggi and media including The New York Times and US Vogue.

Visit the profile page for Sydney Akira store locations.

Dotti Womens Clothing

Dotti gives you the very best wardrobe options and ideas so that you can mix it up and make a style all your own. Whether it's chic daywear or glamour for a night on the town, Dotti has something to inspire you.

Dotti is street smart and savvy, giving you the latest looks, fast. We know how to keep up with the demands of your wardrobe, with up to the minute styles and accessories. If you like your fashion hot, you'll find everything you're looking for at Dotti.

With 18 Sydney Dotti store locations and growing to choose from, there's bound to be one near you! Visit the link above for details.

Barkins Womens Clothing

For the best of the best in Ladies' Wear, visit the Barkins womens clothing website and download their seasonal catalogue.

For the finest in Womens' clothing, including shoes, printed tops, shrugs, jeans, tunic dresses, cardis, zipper leggings, boots, waistcoat, pants, heels, jackets, shirts, blouse dresses, pea coats, jewelery, knit tops, skirts, belts and other accessories.

Visit the Sydney Barkins womens clothing profile for store locations, or visit OnlySydney's Sydney Women's Clothing Stores for more stores throughout Sydney and NSW.

Sydney Charity Events | Balls | Auctions

Today's topic of choice is Sydney Charity Events. Once again, this subject arises as a followup (perhaps afterthought or to add emphasis) to yesterday's blog, Sydney Fairtrade Fortnight.

I guess in essence I wanted to draw attention to the importance of raising awareness of charity events and organisations in these financially trying times. It's understandable we're all trying to spend less and save what we can, though it's easy to forget that while we may be facing a relatively tough period, there are always those who have less than us, and they are consequentially doing it rougher.

As more and more people lose their financial well being, they are forced to rely on charitable organisations, placing more demand on those organisations who in turn rely on our contribution.

Get involved in one of these charity events or organisations this year, and contribute to a strenghtened society.

Sydney Charity events

'Yes 4 Kids' Electric Blue Colour Ball for Redkite
The Y4K Colour Ball raises funds for Redkite, which provides essential emotional, financial and educational support to children, young people and their families facing the long and difficult journey of childhood cancer.

2MAX FM Convoy for Kids
2MAX FM Convoy for Kids is a Truck, Vintage car and Hot Rod convoy along the highway through Narrabri to our 2Max FM studios. All proceeds from the day go to the kids wards at our local hospitals. Plenty of entertainment, Talent Quest, Auction, and more.

Convoy For Kids Goulburn
Day includes: Trucks convoy, stalls, entertainment, a monster auction and judging of the trucks. 8am - Trucks assemble at Gateway Service Station. 10am - Trucks convoy through Auburn Street and arrive for a family day at Belmore Park.

Diabetes Buzz Day
Diabetes Buzz Day - the annual fundraising event for Diabetes Australia-NSW will be held on Friday, 18 September and in the next few weeks more than 200,000 flashing pens, torch keyrings, magnetic badges and buzz bees will sent out to selected retail stores.

Field of Women
Breast Cancer Network Australia is calling on 13,000 people - representing the number of Australians diagnosed with breast cancer in 2007 - to stand together and create the first ever Sydney Field of Women LIVE before the Sydney Swans v St Kilda match.

Great Australian Bite
Share a bite to help fight Diabetes This April, people from across NSW will be sharing food, having fun and enjoying friendships as they get together for the 'Great Australian Bite' to help raise money for those living with diabetes in Australia.

Kids In Need Dragon Boat Festival
This is a fun annual charity event that attracts teams from both side of the border to compete in boat races and other activities. Dragon Boat Racing started in China around 2000 years ago and is a great team sport.

Lifestart Kayak for Kids
A 17.5km paddling event raising funds and awareness for Lifestart, a charity helping kids with disabilities. Broken down in 4 legs of 4-5km each, this event can be completed by solo paddlers on their own craft or by corporate relay teams.

Michael's Ride For Cancer
Michael is a 16 year old and is doing a solo bike ride from Melbourne to Sydney to raise money for the Cancer Council. He leaves Essendon, Melbourne on the 12th May and arrives at the Relay for Life at Castle Hill Showground, Sydney on 17th May.

Pink Ribbon Breakfast
Pink Ribbon breakfasts are a fun, early morning get-together of friends, family or workmates to celebrate the achievements of breast cancer research and raise funds for further research.

Royal North Shore Hospital Cancer Services Ball
On Friday the 16th of October, 2009 the second annual Cancer Services Ball will be held at Dockside Darling Harbour. A cancer diagnosis is a devastating blow, and 100% of a patient's energy needs to be dedicated to recovery.

Starlight Day
Starlight Day is the annual national fundraising event for the Starlight Children's Foundation Australia, to be held on 1st May in 2009, and raises vital funds for children and families who live with serious illness and hospitalisation.

Three Bridges Walk for Kids With Cancer
Join us starting at Kirrabilli, across the Harbour Bridge, over the Darling Harbour overpass, over the Anzac Bridge, up Victoria Road and all the way across the Iron Cove Bridge, ending on the grass on the Birkinhead side of the bridge.

Triple Climb 09
Triple Climb 09 supports The Smith Family to help disadvantaged Aussie kids to create a brighter future through education. The Smith Family Challenge is an annual event that tests the stamina and fitness of individuals against the elements.

Walk for AIDS
ACON, Bobby Goldsmith Foundation (BGF) and Positive Life NSW are once again hosting the Walk for AIDS on Sunday 22 November 2009. Now in its fourth year, the Walk for AIDS raises much needed funds for services for HIV positive people.

Amateur Ashes Charity Event
On Australia Day come down and watch the Amateur Ashes (the Aussies vs the English) and enjoy a BBQ, raffles, live music and lots of entertainment for the kids. All money raised will be donated to Red Kite, a Children's Cancer Charity.

Bandaged Bear Day
The Bandaged Bear Day Appeal is a wonderful event and chance to support The Children's Hospital at Westmead by purchasing Bandaged Bear Day merchandise throughout the month of March.

Sydney Charity Organisations

CanTeen
CanTeen - The Australian Organisation for Young People Living with Cancer, is the national support organisation for young people (aged 12-24) living with cancer.

Caritas Australia
The Catholic Agency for International Aid and Development. Caritas Australia helps people help themselves - regardless of race, religion or political beliefs.

Charity Greeting Cards
Charity Greeting Cards is a wholesale publisher of Greetings Cards specifically to Australian Charities. We assist our Charity clients by marketing and promoting the Christmas Cards that we have manufactured for them through this website.

Legacy
Legacy is a uniquely Australian organisation, established in 1923 by ex-servicemen dedicated to the task of caring for the widows and dependants of their comrades.

Lifeline Sydney
Lifeline Sydney provides a 24 hour crisis telephone counselling service. The service is delivered by volunteers who are skilled and equipped to assist those who call by providing counselling support and referral options.

Make-A-Wish Australia
Make-A-Wish Australia has been granting wishes to children and young people since 1985. Wishes bring magic, joy and hope to these children and their families, as well as unforgettable experiences.

Oxfam Australia
Oxfam Australia is an Australian, independent, not-for-profit, secular, community-based aid and development organisation. Our vision is of a fair world in which people control their own lives, their basic rights are achieved and the environment is sustained.

OzHarvest - Rescuing Food for Sydney's Charities
OzHarvest is a Sydney-based charity that collects excess food and delivers it, free of charge, to organizations that feed disadvantaged men, women and children in our community.

Redkite
Redkite is an Australian charity that supports children, young people and their families through cancer by providing emotional guidance, financial assistance and educational services.

Save the Children
Save the Children Australia remains focused on programs that directly benefit the lives of children and their communities. Save the Children Australia's program breadth can be demonstrated by the number of programs we design and directly implement.

The Australian Charities Fund
The Australian Charities Fund is an Australian founded and led organisation established to facilitate the development of Workplace Giving programs, and associated community involvement programs, within large employer organisations.

The Benevolent Society
The Benevolent Society is an independent, secular, not-for-profit organisation with a long history of working with communities to create positive change. The Benevolent Society works with individuals and communities in metropolitan, regional and rural New South Wales and in South East Queensland.

The Leukaemia Foundation
We are dedicated to the care and cure of patients and families living with leukaemias, lymphomas, myeloma and related blood disorders.

The Shepherd Centre
The Shepherd Centre works with children who are deaf and hearing impaired to teach them to speak and communicate in the hearing world. The approach focuses on listening as the foundation for developing spoken language, through the use of hearing devices...

The Starlight Children's Foundation
Since being formed as an Australian children's charity in 1988, the Starlight Children's Foundation has brightened the lives of seriously ill and hospitalised children, and their families, by delivering innovative programs that restore fun, laughter and joy that a life-threatening illness takes away.

The Sydney Cancer Centre
The Sydney Cancer Centre is at the forefront of cancer treatment and research in Australia. Cancer Information and Support.

The Sydney Kids Committee
The Sydney Kids Committee is a volunteer group dedicated to supporting the Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick.

UNICEF
UNICEF is the United Nations Children's Fund, the world's leading advocate for children. UNICEF is non-political and works in over 150 countries to make a lasting difference to the lives of women and children around the world, and advocates for the health of Indigenous children in Central Australia.

Wesley Mission
Wesley Mission has a real mission - to minister to a community with real needs. Our community includes the vulnerable and marginalised. It includes the lonely, hurt and fragile, the homeless, mentally ill, aged, disabled, unemployed.

World Vision
World Vision is Australia's largest overseas aid and humanitarian organisation. As well as providing relief in emergency situations, we work on long-term development projects with local communities to address the causes of poverty and help them become self-sufficient.

WWF-Australia
WWF-Australia is part of the WWF International Network, the world's largest and most experienced independent conservation organisation. It has close to five million supporters and a global network active in more than 100 countries.

Youth Off The Streets
Youth Off The Streets is a community organisation supporting homeless and drug addicted young Australians as they work to turn their lives around. It is our goal that these young people will leave our care drug free, with a high school education.

Contributing to any of the above organisations is a great way to make a difference to individuals, families and society at large.

If you know of or are involved with a charitable organisation, or are organising an upcoming charitable event, you can advertise it with OnlySydney via the link free of charge.

Sydney Fairtrade Fortnight

Every year throughout May, the focus across Australia and New Zealand turns to equality for workers throughout the world during Fairtrade Fortnight.

What is fair trade, you may ask? Fair Trade is a means for consumers to purchase produce and products from overseas with an assurance the producers and workers are receiving a fair income and percentage of the profits.

The Fair Trade Association describes it as such: "Fair Trade is a trading partnership, based on dialogue, transparency and respect, that seeks greater equity in international trade. It contributes to sustainable development by offering better trading conditions to, and securing the rights of, marginalized producers and workers - especially in the South. Fair Trade organizations (backed by consumers) are engaged actively in supporting producers, awareness raising and in campaigning for changes in the rules and practice of conventional international trade."

Fairtrade coffee is a practical, everyday way to help eradicate poverty. Most of the world's coffee is produced by small scale farmers in developing countries. The additional price - or Fairtrade premium - they receive when we buy Fairtrade coffee can mean the difference between having three meals a day or just one, being able to send kids to school, or being able to access health and other social services.

Oxfam Australia and the Fair Trade Association encourage you to hold a "Coffee Break" during Fairtrade Fortnight (2 - 17 May). It's as simple as organising a Fairtrade morning or afternoon tea in your workplace, community, school or home.

Visit the website via the link above to register and they'll provide you with lots of resources including a short DVD about Fairtrade coffee, posters, fliers, postcards and tea and coffee samples. They will also be selling Fairtrade t-shirts at half price ($15) when you register your Coffee Break. All you need to do is invite your colleagues and friends.

Main events in Sydney, Australia include:

• Fairtrade Coffee Break (2 - 17 May)
  
• Fair Trade Fiesta, Paddington (7 May)
  

In a time where economic divides are widening, it's more important than ever to buy with a conscience to ensure workers abroad earning a minimum wage aren't disadvantaged while Western corporations sell their wares for a 1000% markup. Fairtrade Fortnight is the perfect opportunity to support those businesses supporting global communities.

Keep checking OnlySydney for our increasing list of Fair Trade Sydney Coffee shops & Cafes.

Sydney Museum and Science - International Year of Astronomy

As a followup to the previous blog about Sydney's International Year of Astronomy, I thought I'd go a step further and list more of the upcoming IYA events, along with some of the very important venues, those Sydney observatories hosting them.

Before I do though I just wanted to add a bit more information about 2009 IYA, and why it has been deemed the International Year of Astronomy. In essence, 2009 marks 400 years since Galileo, arguably one of the most important astronomers in the field, turned his telescope to the stars and was bold enough to state the Earth revolved around the Sun, not the other way around.

That being said, 400 years later there are still very few of us who understand or even contemplate Earth's position in the universe. Thus the importance of encouraging a broader curiosity and wonder about the universe we live in.

With ninety percent of Australia's astronomy infrastructure currently housed in New South Wales, it is the perfect place to celebrate the Year of Astronomy and foster this new curiosity in our kids.

Get involved in 2009, the International Year Astronomy, and set your child on a path of intellectual enlightenment, offering them useful tools for an ever-increasing "space-faring" future. Take a look at these events and visit your closest observatory, listed below.

Events

Sydney Observatory April school holiday program

Bring your children to the Sydney Observatory these holidays, and we'll take them on a tour of the universe! Children's planetarium An entertaining 30 minute constellation storytelling session in the beanbag planetarium. Sit back and be amazed as you travel through time and space.

Treasures of Sydney Observatory

Join a fabulous guided stargazing tour featuring stories of the instruments used by past explorers and astronomers to map both skies and land. Explorers and astronomers such as Matthew Flinders, James Cook and Henry Chamberlain Russell. The tour includes the 3D Space Tour through the universe.

Winter Solstice at the Sydney Observatory

Celebrate the International Year of Astronomy at the Sydney Observatory. On 21 June at 3.46pm the Sun is at its most northerly position for the year. This is the day of the winter solstice, about which mythology has developed and superstition has grown.

Sky's The Limit: Astronomy In Antiquity

Many ancient religions and their myths revolve around the planets and the stars as they looked to the stars to make sense of their world. Follow the stars and see how people used them to predict the change of the seasons, track time and create calendars.

South Pacific Star Party

Since 1993 the Astronomical Society of New South Wales has hosted the now famous annual South Pacific Star Party (SPSP). The Star Party provides amateurs with the chance to meet other amateur and professional astronomers, and observe under dark skies with superb seeing conditions the night sky as it's meant to be viewed.

Space exhibition - Powerhouse Museum

Open every day except Christmas Day. (Extended opening times for some public and/or school holidays.) The Powerhouse Museum's exhibition Space looks at the history of the human desire to travel beyond Earth's atmosphere.

Parramatta Park Astronomy Open Night

Come along to the Parramatta Park Astronomy Open Night, a large scale, multi-society public open night to be held at Parramatta Park, Saturday, 2nd May 2009, from 6:30pm on.

Music and the Cosmos

Music and the Cosmos is a special event featuring leading astronomers from the University of Sydney's School of Physics, and an SCM Chamber Music Ensemble. Celebrate the International Year of Astronomy with the Sydney Science Forum and Sydney Conservatorium of Music.

Smart light Sydney

Smart Light Sydney is a free, self-guided Light Walk. Take a stroll from Sydney Observatory through and around the iconic harbour front precinct, viewing the beautiful and dynamic light art sculptures using innovative, smart technology.

Astrophotography on a budget

Astrophotography doesn't have to be expensive. Mike Salway (Ice in Space website - Astronomical imaging on a budget) reveals how to get the most out of your equipment and take beautiful pictures on a budget.

Saturn Night Fever

Peer through the Sydney Observatory telescopes and see a naked Saturn without its rings, Alpha and Beta Centauri, the constellations Taurus and Virgo and a universe of other celestial features, and experience space as never before in the 3D Space Theatre.

Observatories in Sydney and NSW

Mudgee Observatory

Mudgee Observatory has been a private observatory for the past ten years though is now open to school groups, organized tours and any member of the general public who wishes to attend.

Dubbo Observatory

The Dubbo Observatory lets you zoom to the moon and through the solar system. Discover the Milky Way and beyond with the most high-tech telescopes in the West.

CSIRO Parkes Radio Telescope - 'The Dish'

The famous Parkes observatory, as featured in the Australian movie 'The Dish', is a landmark radio telescope nearly 50 years old, yet still considered to be one of the best single dish radio telescopes in the world.

Darby Falls Observatory

The Darby Falls Observatory is located on Observatory Road (off the road to Mt. McDonald) Darby Falls, Cowra. Open Friday, Saturday & Sunday nights and every night during school holidays (weather permitting). Winter 7pm to 10pm, summer (daylight savings) 8:30pm to 11pm.

Green Point Observatory

The Green Point Observatory is operated by the Sutherland Astronomical Society (SAS) in Sydney, and houses 41cm and 35cm telescopes. Green Point Observatory is open for meetings every Thursday evening, commencing at 8pm, and visitors are welcome to attend Guest Speaker Talk.

Koolang Observatory and Space Science Centre

The Koolang Observatory and Space Science Centre is located on the border of the Central Coast and Lower Hunter, no more than two hours from most Sydney and Newcastle suburbs. The Koolang Observatory and Space Science Centre is a public access astronomical observatory.

Macquarie University Observatory

Macquarie University campus at North Ryde is open to the public on Friday nights from March to November inclusive, subject to bookings, unless raining. Please ring for confirmation on 0427 433 388 if the weather is doubtful.

Port Macquarie Observatory

The Port Macquarie Observatory is run by the Port Macquarie Astronomical Association Inc., a non profit voluntary group of people interested in astronomy. Astronomy Open Nights The observatory is open to the public on Sunday and Wednesday nights.

The Australia Telescope Compact Array - Narrabri

The Australia Telescope Compact Array (ATCA), at the Narrabri Observatory, is an array of six 22-m antennas used for radio astronomy. Located about 25 km west of the town of Narrabri in rural NSW (about 500 km north-west of Sydney), it is operated by the Australia Telesco Read more..

University of Western Sydney Observatory

The University of Western Sydney (UWS) Observatory runs public astronomy nights along with school, holiday and group programs during the day or evening. UWS Observatory is located at the University of Western Sydney, Penrith Campus, Great Western Highway, Werrington North.

Wollongong Science Centre and Planetarium

The Wollongong Science Centre and Planetarium is operated by the University of Wollongong as a public science centre. The centre includes a planetarium (BlueScope Steel Star Theatre), observatory, laser light shows, extensive interactive exhibits, demonstration theatre and more.

Bathurst Observatory

Bathurst Observatory is located at two sites. One site is for research and study, while the other is for public viewing through telescopes, and also has a daytime space show in the new 200 seat theatrette. The public observatory is located at the Bathurst Goldfields site.

Crago Observatory

Crago Observatory is located on Bowen Mountain near North Richmond (NW of Sydney), and is operated by the Astronomical Society of NSW. The observatory houses a 40cm Dobsonian telescope, and is open on Saturday nights (nearest to Last Quarter Moon phase).

Linden Observatory

Visit Linden Observatory in the Blue Mountains and join any of WSAAG's (Western Sydney Amateur Astronomy Group) observing nights, where anyone can drop in and look through their telescopes. Observing nights are usually held on Saturdays closest to the New Moon.

Siding Spring Observatory

Siding Spring Observatory is home to some of the world's major telescopes and Australia's largest optical telescopes. Siding Spring Observatory is located next to the picturesque Warrumbungle National Park near Coonabarabran, N.S.W.

Warrumbungle Observatory

Warrumbungle Observatory, otherwise known as "Tenby Observatory", is located on the Timor Road that leads out to the Warrumbungle National Park, 10 kilometres from Coonabarabran. The Warrumbungle Observatory holds three Computerised telescopes including a 14 inch Telescope.

Introducing yourself and your child or children to the wonders of the universe and really coming to understand our planet's place in it is the greatest way to emphasise how delicate and extraordinary life on Earth really is. Not only will you learn, you'll find your jaw dropping at the marvels and imagery the galaxy and universe present us every day, yet we rarely raise our gaze to.

Visit our OnlySydney Museum and Science category for listings and more information on these 2009 International Year of Astronomy events and Sydney Observatories.

Sydney's International Year of Astronomy

2009 has been deemed the International Year of Astronomy, and Sydney has taken the theme straight to its bosom.

Sydney Observatory has a universe of events planned, aimed at increasing the public's awareness of the beauty and awe-inspiring sights the universe has to offer.

Treasures of Sydney Observatory takes you on a a fabulous guided stargazing tour featuring stories of the instruments used by past explorers and astronomers to map both skies and land.

100 hours of astronomy: The jewel box in the Southern Cross has you relaxing beneath a canopy of stars while music carries you across the universe. View the Jewel Box, a gem-like cluster of stars within the Southern Cross, plus see a rare view of Saturn completely naked, devoid of its famous rings.

The Sydney Observatory April school holiday program is the perfect opportunity for children to introduce themselves to the wonders of the universe. Events include the Children's planetarium, Solar system model activity, Terrific Titan pizza nights, and the Saturn Fever Party Day. This is not only a great opportunity for you child to learn, but also the ideal time for us all to rediscover Earth's place in the universe.

For more International Year of Astronomy events, visit OnlySydney's Museum and Science. More events will be loaded up over the coming weeks, so check back regularly for updates.

Sydney's Zombies continue Earth Hour with blackout

Sydney's blackout on Sunday March 30 2009 created a buzz of speculation on the net regarding its cause, and according to the majority of Twitter users, it was due to an unprecedented zombie attack on the City of Sydney.

This comes just two days after Sydney voluntarily shrouded itself in darkness for an hour in solidarity with Earth Hour, leaving officials to speculate if it wasn't the undead's own efforts to partake in the environmental movement or the first leg of a campaign to devour the city. Zombies generally never do things by half, and given the slow movements of reanimated corpses, along with their questionable eating habits, it is understandable they were slow in blacking the city out at the specified time, factoring in the lethargy and the time it takes to actually acquire and eat brains.

To a different though perhaps not entirely unrelated topic, the NSW Government is set to trial the electric car in a plan to make its fleet emissions free. An Electric Vehicle Taskforce has been announced which will look at barriers that may exist to the introduction of electric cars. Given the events of the weekend, one would seriously hope they consider the possibility that the zombie legions have indeed noted our society's reliance on electricity, and whether an electric car would really make the best getaway vehicle should such an uprising ever become a reality.

Seriously, people. Think about it...

Consumer-Decides: restaurants asking you what you're willing to pay

Sydney restaurants have seen a decline in customers recently as many of us tighten our belts and try to brave the current economic uncertainty. There are, however, some restaurants with their finger on the pulse regarding what their clientele are looking for most right now: a cheap night out.

Sobo on Bondi Beach is one such restaurant. To draw in a crowd and keep bums in seats, restaurateur Adam Gerondis has devised the perfect menu along with the perfect asking price: the Sobo Credit Crunch Menu, where you pay what you feel.

While Sobo offers this deal until 9 April, such negotiable pricing systems could signify an emerging trend in business, with other restaurants and businesses doing likewise.

In February, London restaurant The Little Bay offered their customers the same flexibility to pay what they felt their meal was worth, while in Melbourne the vegetarian organic restaurant Lentil as Anything has been offering this same consumer-decides system since 2000. While a not-for-profit community organisation largely staffed by volunteers, Lentil as Anything is gaining in popularity, with its two restaurants always busy, and also operates the same service to Collingwood College canteen.

The customer-decides model has even extended as far as hotels, with budget hotel chain Ibis in Singapore also offering guests the opportunity to set the price of their stay in February.

And it makes sense, given that we as consumers are less likely to part with our money without a great deal or a sense of loyalty involved. To my mind, the customer-decides model ticks both of these boxes, whilst also ensuring greater quality of product and service, given that their payment in dependent on our overall contentment at the end. It's a model I'd be willing to pay good money to which hopefully more Sydney restaurants and businesses will adopt.

Official Opening of Paddington Reservoir Gardens

The City of Sydney's beautiful Paddington Reservoir Gardens is to be reopened on Sunday 29 March after its restoration.

The opening will include afternoon tea, entertainment and a photographic exhibition.

Developed in consultation with the local community, the new Paddington Reservoir Gardens and cultural facility restores the civic precinct, linking to Paddington Town Hall, the Post Office and historic Juniper Hall.

"The City's work breathes life into this historic site, which has been closed to the public since sections of the roof collapsed in 1993," Ms Moore said.

The park on the reservoir roof has been completely reconstructed, along with the establishment of a new and stunning sunken garden in the reservoir's western chamber. Adding colour to the eastern chamber, vibrant graffiti art has been preserved, providing a new space for community and cultural activities, and new stairs and viewing platforms now provide access to the chambers.

Originally the site of an Anglican Church School, the State Heritage listed Paddington Reservoir consists of two 1,023 square metre chambers built in 1866 and 1878 respectively and is a stunning example of 19th century public architecture.

The official opening will feature an exhibition of photographs of the restoration of the park and entertainment from bands Waiting For Guinness and the James Muller Trio, and from the ERTH Visual and Physical Theatre. Free afternoon tea will be available for the first 1000 visitors.

The Official Opening of Paddington Reservoir Gardens is on from 4 - 6pm on 29 March,
Oxford Street Paddington NSW.

Guy Maestri wins Archibald Prize 2009 with Geoffrey Gurrumul Yunupingu

Indigenous singer Geoffrey Gurrumul Yunupingu is the subject of this year's Archibald Prize winner, Guy Maestri.

Born blind, Yunupingu has captivated audiences over the last year with his haunting voice and album, Gurrumul, sung in his native Yolngu language. He was recently the recipient of two coveted ARIA Awards and was named the 2008 NT Australian of the Year.

Guy Maestri saw Gurrumul live on New Year's Eve last year and says it was truly, an unforgettable experience. "Word had been going around all day and the rumours were true - people really were moved to tears.' So it seems right that he should choose the singer as the of a portrait.

When Maestri managed to track Gurrumul down in through the assistance of friend in the music industry, it was to discover he was flying out to New York the following weekend. He was offered 40 minutes to meet with him early one Saturday morning at Sydney airport, which he naturally leapt at, taking a series of sketches to be used for the final piece and capturing the essence of the artist with astounding effect.

Maestri was born in Mudgee, NSW in 1974, and completed his Bachelor of Fine Art (Hons) in painting at the National Art School, Darlinghurst in 2003. He has had solo exhibitions at the Tim Olsen Gallery and was a finalist in the 2007 and 2008 Dobell Drawing Prize.

The Archibald Prize exhibition can be viewed at the Art Gallery of New South Wales from 7 March to 24 May 2009, along with the Archibald People's Choice Prize exhibition.

Hours:

10am to 5pm, 7 days a week
Art After Hours until 9pm every Wednesday

Admission:

$10 adults
$7 concessions / students / members
$27 family (2 adults + 2 children)

Sydney for Children | Kids

Sydney for Children | Kids is loaded with events and activities for Sydney children over the holidays or weekends in general. Kids can be difficult to entertain once they've exhausted their own devices or merely put there minds to it (doesn't it feel that way sometimes?). If you and they are feeling lacking in inspiration for what to do, why not try the events below. You may even rediscover the child inside.

New!!!

New listings for the school holidays have just arrived, and are a great opportunity to learn new facts and skills, and have a great day out with your kids!

School Holiday fun at the Library presents a series of events at City of Sydney Libraries aimed at children from age 2 to 102+, if you're still up and at 'em.

For the artists, Stencil Art with Chris Tamm is a fun lesson in the basics of street art and stenciling.
Ages: 8 - 16.

2009 is the International Year of Astronomy and Twilight Sidewalk Astronomy is a great event for all budding astronomers and stargazing enthusiasts.
Ages: 2 - 102+. (See, I wasn't lying).

Library Palooza: It's a Tribute with Playstation is a fun fancy dress event that will get your child and their friends rocking to a day of air guitar and singing.
Ages: 8 - 16.

Fun with Music and Body Movement is aimed at getting your child moving, improving co-ordination, listening skills and memory while integrating body movement with music, singing and storytelling.
Ages: 3 - 5

Imagine That! with Kindermusik is a musical journey of discovery where play is combined with storytelling, movement and literature, designed for energetic and imaginative tots.
Ages: 2 - 5

smARTarts Festival is Sydney's largest youth arts festival, incorporated into Sydney Youth Week, abnd is packed with exhibitions, street art, workshops and other events. Visit the link above for more information on dates, events and venues.

The Easter Holidays wouldn't be the same without The Sydney Royal Easter Show. The Show is packed with activities and rides, not to mention the showbags, animals and live shows. The final day of the show is Kids Day, too, where all children get in for $10, so it's well worth booking that day aside, even if to just spend the money you saved on a a few extra rides.

There's also the Adaminaby Easter Fair, with a market and food stalls, Easter Bonnet Parade, plus other activities and events, and even a special guest! The Adaminaby is a great family day out.

Every day, Clue Trail @ Sydney Olympic Park makes expert sleuths out of Sydney's young. Bring your kids along for a cheap day out ($5 per person). Great for kids 3-12 years old. Follow the clues and uncover the history secrets of the Park. Once you have solved the mystery and decoded the secret password you can claim your prize. Available from the Visitor Centre on Showground Road.

Kidz Zoo is on at the Entertainment Quarter every Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday, from 11am - 3pm, and has cuddly guinea pigs, rabbits, chicks, kid goats, sheep and lambs the kids can get up close and personal with! Entry to Kidz Soo is also just $5!

Though somewhat more expensive than some of the options just mentioned, Sydney Luna Park also offers endless excitement. The atmosphere is alive with the screams of delight of people taking on crazy rides like the Tango Train or nostalgic favourites such as the beautifully restored Antique Carousel.

If you have a feeling you might be returning a few times throughout the year, or it's already a part of your holiday schedule, you can purchase an annual pass for around $100 which gets you onto unlimited rides every time you visit.

If you're feeling like getting out, and wouldn't mind a bit of quiet as well with the kids out of your hair, sign them up for surfing lessons with Let's Go Surfing, where you can relax on the beach with a book or magazine, catch some rays and take a breather on Bondi Beach. Even get a couple of friends together along with their kids and make a day of it.

Sign the kids up for trapeze and circus lessons at Aerialize - Sydney Aerial Theatre. Aerialize promotes circus & aerial theatre and run quality, fun, imaginative workshops and performances in trapeze, rope and aerial skills, for adults and children.

Aerialize is an innovative theatre group that combines the art of dance, theatre, gymnastics and circus in an aerial environment, and has been thrilling local and international audiences with death defying feats of grace and beauty on the trapeze, rope and web.

Bounce 'N' Slide on Central is another great place to take the kids where they can entertain themselves while you catch up with friends over a few coffees. Bounce 'N' Slide has an assortment of mazes and equipment that caters to toddlers up to 12-13 year olds, arcade games, an air hockey table and a pool table for the teens, and for the parents, as suggested, a cafe with tea and coffee, a range of refreshing cold drinks, homemade biscuits and cakes, tempting slices, healthy café style sandwiches, freshly made salads, homemade quiches, mouth watering hamburgers, crunchy wedges with sour cream & sweet chilli sauce, low fat options, gluten Free snacks, huge range of kids meals and kids meal deals.

Visit Sydney for Children | Kids for more ideas to entertain the kids throughout the year, and just remember the most important thing: they'll be back to school soon...

Sydney Swap Meets

Sydney Swap Meets spring up throughout Sydney and NSW every month.

They're the perfect opportunity for you to either find that rare something for that special someone, a treat for yourself, or even for that distant relative you feel begrudgingly obligated to buy something for. And if that's the case, why not have fun while looking rather than traipse all over the city? Whatever you're hunting for and for whatever reason, Sydney Swap Meets are the way to go and a fun day out!

The Goulburn Mulwaree Rotary Club Swap Meet, held annually in April at the Goulburn Showground, is one of Australia's largest swap meets.

Stallholders are offering car and motorcycle parts, vintage, antique, veteran and modern vehicles plus bric-a-brac for motor sports. Whatever you need, get along to the Goulburn Mulwaree Rotary Club Swap Meet where the chances are good they're selling it.

The Quirindi Rural Heritage Village | Rally & Swap Meet is an annual vintage machinery and miniature railway rally & swap meet held in May.

More than 100 swap sites, at rally grounds, 3 km west of Quirindi on Kamilaroi Highway (Gunnedah Road), featuring Lister engines, crawler tractors/dozers, vintage tractors, engines, steamengines, cars, motor bikes & displays. Hit the link for more information.

More Sydney Swap Meets:

• Annual Morriset Swap Meet
  
• Annual Swap Meet
  
• Canowindra Swap Meet
  
• Coffs Harbour Annual Auto Swap Meet
  
• Crookwell Rotary Swap Meet and Market Day
  
• Gosford Swap Meet
  
• Granville Toy and Model Swap Meet
  
• Lions Book Fair
  
• Morisset Central Coast Auto Swap Meet
  
• Nabiac Swap Meet
  
• North Rocks Computer Market
  
• NSW All Holden Day Display and Swap Meet
  
• Parkes Annual Super Swap Meet
  
• Sydney Model Auto Club Swap Meet
  
• TPCR Annual Auto Swap Meet.

Hit the link above for more Sydney Swap Meets, and happy hunting!

Sydney Earth Hour

SYdney's Earth Hour has taken the world by storm, albeit a storm of darkness and reflection.

Begun in Sydney, Australia in 2007, Earth Hour was initiated by the WWF (World Wide Fund for Nature/World Wildlife Fund), to raise awareness towards the need to take action on climate change and saw 2.2 million households turn off all non-essential lights and appliances for one hour. The following year, the message was received throughout the world and the movement went global, an approximate 50 million people switching off their lights. Iconic landmarks across the planet, such as the Sydney Opera House, the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, the Coca Cola billboard in Times Square and Rome’s Colosseum all fell into a still darkness, symbolic of the importance of increasing awareness regarding climate change and the effects our energy consumption has upon it.

This year, Earth Hour has an impressive 1,429 cities and towns in 80 countries signed up to "Vote Earth": cities as large as Sydney, Seoul, Beijing, Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur, Manila, Singapore, Bangkok, Jakarta, Mumbai and Delhi, signifying an increasing global concern regarding the future of our planet and the necessity of taking action now.

New Zealand is set to lead this charge, acting as the first country to switch off its lights at 8.30pm on March 28, the darkness sweeping across the planet as the 24 hour period continues.

Earth Hour Executive Director, Mr Andy Ridley, said that Earth Hour signals the beginning of the journey to Copenhagen, where the future of the planet rests with world leaders.

"Earth Hour will focus global attention on addressing the issue of climate change. We are asking one billion people to take part in what is essentially the first global vote for action on climate change by turning off their lights for one hour and casting a vote for earth," he said.

"Earth Hour hopes to provide a global mandate for action on climate change to the world's leaders at the UN Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen in December this year, where an agreement will be made to supersede the Kyoto Protocol.

"It is imperative this agreement leads to a sustainable outcome that suitably addresses climate change. Earth Hour presents an opportunity for every person in the world to have a say in that agreement's outcome and ensure it isn't merely an insubstantial token effort by our world's leaders," said Mr Ridley.

Earth Hour is an annual event held on the last Saturday of March. For more information and to sign up and get involved, head to the Earth Hour website.

Barbie turns 50 in Sydney

That iconic doll Barbie has deified the odds and all medical and biological reason to not only have the ability to stand, but to reach her 50th birthday. And to celebrate, she's headed to one of the world's most recognisable icons, the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

And what's more, she's doing it larger than ever! This time around she stands at 2.1 metres tall, and is edible. We're talking, of course, about the edible Barbie cake displayed at the Botanic Gardens First Fleet Steps in Sydney, Australia. If you live in Sydney, chances are you saw it, failing that heard about it, as news of the Barbie cake was abuzz throughout the streets.

Designed by Australian fashion designer Alex Perry, jewellery designer Stefano Canturi and hairdresser Joh Bailey in collaboration with Sweet Art bakers, Barbie attended garbed in icing. The doll accompanies a special exhibition Forever Barbie, mapping the history of the Barbie doll, displaying models of yore along with the more contemporary Barbie of the world today.

According to Mattel, Barbie's creators, a Barbie is sold every three seconds, and has kept herself constantly evolving, updating her résumé where needed, and replacing cars and pets as each one died.

Hereafter, barbie continues to celebrate her 50th year with events around the world, heading to Melbourne for the Forever Barbie exhibition in Melbourne’s Federation Square from June 26.

Cheers! It's dog beer

Now a man really can have a beer with his best friends. And their canine buddies are lapping it up.

Having seen her two dogs jump at the chance to catch a drop of beer, Elise Schumacher decided to make a drink suitable for her four-legged friends.

So the Sydney mother invented Dog Beer, which is just like real beer but without the alcohol.

"It's DB, just like VB, and the slogan is, 'Shout your best friend a beer'," Mrs Schumacher said. "Dogs really love human beer but it's bad for them."

The hops in beer can cause dogs to have seizures while the carbon can lead some to die.

In an effort to keep her family pets happy, Mrs Schumacher, owner of Paws Point store in Sydney's eastern suburbs, decided to design a canine-friendly beer.

After researching how to brew her own beer, the mother of two then had to taste test the beef flavours.

"I have drunk it," she said. "It tastes like beef and smells like beer."

While unlikely to be served on tap at the pub, some dog-friendly cafes are stocking the brand.

"It is popular with male customers," she said, adding that summer barbecues often prompted greater sales. "People pick up a few bottles for the dogs."

And the best part about this beer is that customers don't have to be over 18 to drink it.

NSW truckies take it slowly in protest

It's all about the rising cost of petrol these days, though if you think you have it tough spare a thought for our truckies.

A convoy of disgruntled NSW truck drivers took their rigs and grievances to the F3 freeway on Tuesday in slow protest of rising fuel costs. They left the Caltex Service Station at Warnervale on the central coast before driving down the freeway at speeds of between 60 and 80km/h.

The increase in fuel costs has some drivers spending as much as $500 a day!

Couple wed on Sydney Harbour Bridge

Fearful one of them might take the adage "Taking the plunge" literally, a Scottish couple wore harnesses as they exchanged wedding vows atop the Sydney Harbour Bridge on Tuesday.

Stephen Tierney, 27, and Claire Tullan, 28, from Glasgow, exchanged tuxedo and wedding gown for more appropriate jumpsuits, given the somewhat unfortunate weather.

Their hair and clothes may have been dampened, though their spirits seemed high. 134 meters above the harbour, to be exact.

Sydney submerged in fog

If you were having trouble seeing your hand in front of your face this morning, you weren’t alone.

Sydney was beset with fog so heavy it closed down Sydney Airport and caused the cancellation of all ferry services on Sydney Harbour this morning, save the Manly Jetcat.

SMH.com.au has some amazing and eerie pictures; well worth a look provided the fog around you has lifted.

Google Sky

Another amazing service from Google is Google Sky.

View Solar System Constellations Hubble Showcase Backyard Astronomy Chandra X-Ray Showcase GALEX Ultraviolet Showcase Spitzer Infrared Showcase Earth & Sky Podcasts.

Why not see where Apollo 11's Neil Armstrong and Edwin “Buzz” Aldrin landed on the Moon.

How about the amazing planet MARS

See the future in 3D

What if George Street were car free, populated by pedestrians and cyclists, while the freeways were buried underground?

This is but one revolutionary concept delivered in this impressive 3D fly vision of the City of Sydney in 2030.

Take a look here at what Sydney could be...

Fly Over Sydney with Goggles

The Google Maps flight simulator is a fun way of seeing Sydney using Google maps.

Simply select Sydney from the drop down menu, wait for the map to load, and then use your arrow keys to fly your way around.

Don't fly too low, or you will crash! Try flying under Sydney Harbour Bridge!

Google's photos of Sydney go all fuzzy!

Much of Sydney's CBD as it appears in the satellite images on Google Maps Australia has been fuzzed out, just weeks before the APEC summit.

Google says the imagery was downgraded as a result of a "commercial issue" with a supplier, but the move has aroused speculation it was done at the request of police in order to minimise the risk of a terrorist attack during the September summit, where Sydney will play host to 21 world leaders including U.S. President George W. Bush.

Google has in the past been accused of censoring its maps due to national security concerns by governments, most recently in June when it updated its maps of Washington D.C. but maintained older, blurry images for most of the downtown area.

Users of Google Maps Australia could previously zoom in for satellite views as close as 25m above the ground in much of Sydney, but now maps of the CBD are blurry even when zoomed out to 300m.