Who's Who in the Zoo

Taronga Zoo

http://taronga.org.au/

You haven't really been to Sydney if you haven't been splashed by a seal, cuddled a koala, or made up your own commentary watching the gorillas?

Here's my suggestion on how you do Taronga! take a short ferry trip from Circular Quay there, then catch the Sky Safari cable car to the top of the hill and make your way down to the water past some 2,600 animals.

I actually used to work at the Zoo (No not as an exhibit!) but as a gardener working in the many beautiful gardens.

I will warn you it is a bit pricy, but with a bit of research you can safe on entry. For a great deal visit our partners at http://globalconnection.com.au/ The HOC Official Travel Partner of the Rotary International Convention Sydney 2014.

 

Skywalk

Sydney Tower (with optional Skywalk)

At twice the height of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, this is the perfect start to get your bearings on this amazing city, while also getting a true sense of the sheer scale of Sydney and its surrounds.  Measuring 250m high, Sydney Tower  (previously known simply as "Centrepoint Tower") provides a vantage point that no other location in the city can match, and is located almost exactly in the heart of the city at 100 Market St.  Visiting Sydney Tower serves as a less-pricey (and less physically exerting) alternative to the Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb, which is another popular way to garner some panoramic views of the city, and it also offers an included "4D" video experience which some seem to find hit-or-miss, I actually didn't mind it.

Lars and I dropping out!

You can visit just the observation deck level at Sydney Tower which provides unmatched, 360 degree views of everything from Sydney Harbour to the city skyline to the Blue Mountains far in the distance, or pay the upgrade fee as Lars and I did for the Skywalk experience!!

This allows you to step outside! This option combines a mix of sightseeing and adrenaline into a single entertaining package, and is very reasonably priced, particularly compared to similar offerings in some of Australia's other cities.

Regardless of if you choose the Sydney Tower standalone admission or the Skywalk package, be sure to buy your tickets online as you'll save yourself a fair bit of cash on the door entry price.

Sydney Sunset

This is one of the most majestic photo spots in Sydney. Mrs Macquarie's Chair is located at the western end of the Royal Botanic Gardens and the Sydney "On-Off" red tourist bus make numerous journeys to this spot daily.

Sydney Opera House Anniversary

In October, the Opera House celebrates a major milestone in its history – its 40th anniversary.
The Anniversary marks a pivotal point in the life of the Opera House: a moment to reflect on the Opera House’s heritage and history.
http://40.sydneyoperahouse.com/about.aspx

During the Convention next year you can experience an extraordinary performance with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra as part of the official HOC event. With its grand setting, gorgeous wooden paneling and cathedral‐like ambience, the world‐renowned Concert Hall is Sydney Opera House’s most prestigious and majestic space. Immerse yourself here, in a Classical‐Romantic Symphonic performance by this acclaimed 65‐piece orchestra. You will enjoy a performance to remember.

To book tickets please visit http://www.trybooking.com/Booking/BookingEventSummary.aspx?eid=60509

Free Public Transport in Sydney

Free Public Transport in Sydney

One of the key attractions of Sydney 2014 will be the free travel pass, sponsored by the NSW Government …

Free Government train, bus and ferry transport within a 150 mile (250 kms) radius of the Sydney CBD is no small gift!  From Newcastle in the north, Bathurst in the west, Goulburn in the southwest, and Nowra in the south, Rotarians and partners will be able to travel to Sydney Olympic Park at Homebush free of charge.
Take a bus to Bondi Beach and see the Bondi Lifeguards at work or take a ferry across beautiful Sydney Harbour to Manly Beach. Catch a ferry to the world famous Taronga Park Zoo. Take a train over the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge.  All free after you register at Sydney Olympic Park.
Your free travel pass will be supplied when delegates complete registration at Sydney Olympic Park and will continue from Thursday 29 May until Thursday 5 June (Inclusive), the completion of the Convention.
For the latest timetable information for Sydney’s public transport system visit www.131500.com.au or call the 131 500 transport info line when in Australia. You can also download the Mobile App for the Sydney Public Transport for your use when in Sydney.
Note: The rail link from Sydney (Mascot) Airport, International and Domestic Terminals is privately owned and is not part of the NSW Govt. free travel pass. (allow $15.90 per passenger each way).  Taxi – Airport to the city approx $35-$45,  City CBD to Sydney Olympic Park, approx $50-$60

Sydney and Surrounds

Sydney is a pretty big place! Hopefully this map will put thing in perspective.

The Spirit of Sydney - Rotary Convention Sydney 2014