Social Program: Excursions and Gala Dinner

The social program for the meeting will include a half-day excursion on Wednesday (3 July) and a Gala Dinner on Thursday (4 July).

Advance registration for the gala dinner is required no later than Friday, June 14; the cost is $120 (AUD).

The following four options for Wednesday’s excursion have been selected to take advantage of the natural beauty and vibrant cityscape of Sydney.

Except for the Sydney Opera House Tour option, the only cost of the excursions is for public transportation. Participants will pay transporation costs directly, with the prior purchase of an Opal Card advised for this purpose.

Each excursion group will meet for departure following lunch on Wednesday, and depart no later than 1:30 p.m.

Further logistical details will be provided on-site.

Excursion 1: Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk, led by Jim Pettigrew

This coastal walk between Bondi Beach and Coogee Beach is one of the best coastal walks in the whole of Australia. The paved route hugs the edge of the coastline dropping in and out of a selection of clear blue water bays like Tamarama Beach, Bronte Beach and Clovelly Beach. The total one-way distance is about 6 km (3.75 miles), and takes about 2–3 hours depending on how often we stop. There are also cafes along the way.

Costs: Public transportation to reach the start of the walk, and also for the return.

Excursion 2: Circular Quayand Domain Area Walk, led by Don Shearman

Circular Quay in Sydney Cove is bordered by the Sydney Opera House and Royal Botanic Garden on one side and the Sydney Harbour Bridge on the other. Other sites along this walking tour of the central city area include the Sydney Modern Gallery.

Costs: Round trip light rail to/from Circular Quay.

Excursion 3: Sydney Opera House Tour

This excursion will begin with Don Shearman’s Excursion 2 group, then split off from that group at the Sydney Opera House.  The one-hour guided tour of the opera house takes you underneath the world-famous sails to learn about its legendary history and extraordinary secrets. Please note this tour includes up to 300 stairs with no lift access.

Costs: Round trip light rail to/from Circular Quay, plus tour booking fee ($45). Participants choosing this excursion will book their tour online in advance, for one of the following two entry times: 3:30 pm or 4:15 pm.

Excursion 4: Manly Ferry, led by Évelyne Barbin

Sydney’s famous Manly Ferry began operation in 1855 and continues to make the 30-minute trip regularly, day and night. Departing from Circular Quay, the ferry cruises past the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House, Kirribilli House (official residence of the Prime Minister), Bradleys Head and South Head, before arriving at Manly Wharf. Manly has stunning beaches, cafes, and scenic coastal walks.

Costs: Round trip light rail to/from Circular Quay, plus ferry.