Sketchbook
2024-02-27 10:30 - 12:00 (Australia/Sydney) | Guylian Belgian Cafe, Circular Quay, Sydney, NSW, Australia
This is a new activity in 2024
A relaxed and informal activity for creative club members, friendly and relaxed format, all levels welcome – this is a social group.
Bring a sketchbook and pencils, pastels, watercolours, crayons or whatever portable materials you prefer.
We will start with a coffee and self-introductions before launching the art session.
DATE: 27 February 2024
TIME: 10.30am-12pm
VENUE: Guylian Belgian cafe at Circular Quay guyliancafe.com.au
Tel. +61(2) 82747900
Shop 10, Opera Quays, 3 Macquarie street, Sydney 2000
COST: nil, participants pay for own refreshments
RSVP TO: Maria Brookes mkbrookes@outlook.com
RSVP BY: 24th of February 2024
TRANSPORT: ferries, buses, trains to Circular Quay

Classical Music group
2024-02-29 13:30 - 15:30 | Sydney Opera House, Bennelong Point, Sydney, NSW, 2000, Australia
Welcome to Living Sound – 2024 Season of Sydney Symphony Orchestra
performing in Opera House Concert Hall.
There are nine Thursday afternoon concerts at 1.30 pm and
six Friday morning concerts at 11 am.
Tickets are available now.
There are many benefits to become a subscriber – like best seats, best tickets
prices and presale access to all concerts.
Chief Conductor Simone Young will open 2024 Classical Music Season with
Mahler’s Fifth Symphony on 29 February at 1.30 pm.
It’s an extraordinary creation in sound and scale and the fourth movement
Adagietto is considered as one of the best in all of classical music and the most
frequently performed.
Grace, the convenor chose and bought tickets for following concerts :

Date & Day
Concert
Theatre
Time
Grace’s seat

Thursday (29 February)
Mahler’s Fifth Symphony
Concert Hall – Sydney Opera House
1.30pm – 3.30pm
Box Y – 65

Friday (8 March)
Schumann’s Second Symphony
Concert Hall – Sydney Opera House
11.00am – 12md
Box Y – 65

Thursday
(21 March)
Beethoven’s Third Symphony
Concert Hall – Sydney Opera House
1.30pm – 3.30pm
Box E – 37

Friday
(3 May)
A Musical Tempest – Purcell, Sibelius, Tchaikovsky with actor John Bell
Concert Hall – Sydney Opera House
11.00am – 12md
Box Y – 65

Thursday
(8 August))
Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto
Concert Hall – Sydney Opera House
1.30pm – 3.30pm
Box E – 37

Friday
(18 October)
Gershwin, Stravinsky, Ravel
Concert Hall – Sydney Opera House
11.00am – 12md
Box Y – 65

Friday
(8 November)
Mozart’s Symphony No.41
Concert Hall – Sydney Opera House
11.00am – 12md
Box E – 51

Thursday
(28 November)
Stravinsky’s The Rite of Spring
Concert Hall – Sydney Opera House
1.30pm – 3.30pm
Box Y – 65

Craft Group
2024-03-01 12:00 - 16:00 | NSW
The SWIC Craft Group (which is actually a ‘needlecraft’ group) meets on the first Friday of the month from March to December. At the beginning of the year the group has a voluntary ‘show and tell’ of work by those who wish to do so.
Meetings are held in the homes of those members who are able to host. The format is ‘Open House’ from 12noon to 4.00pm and members are welcome to come for an hour, or two, or the whole afternoon. Afternoon tea is provided and members put $4 in the kitty to help cover the hostess’s expenses.
The group’s craft interests include knitting, crochet, embroidery, cross stitch, quilting, patchwork and tapestry. Usually members bring along their own needlework project, but there is a supply of yarn to knit and crochet into squares for charity projects.
Contact the Convenor, Rosemary Sullivan at rsulliva@comcen.com.au for further information.

Bridge (NS)
2024-03-04 13:15 - 16:30 | Northbridge Golf Club, Sailor Bay Road, Northbridge, Sydney, NSW, 2063, Australia
The North Shore Bridge group meets on Monday afternoons at 1p.m. for a prompt 1.15 start at Northbridge Golf Club, 296 Sailors Bay Rd, Northbridge with a playing fee of $2 to cover costs.
Please note: this is a minimum Intermediate standard bridge group; and in order to play it is necessary to also be a social member of Northbridge Golf Club (the cost is $20 per year). To register to play please contact the Convenor Jilly Clout Fraser at jillyclout@gmail.com

Challenging Walk – Watsons Bay to Double Bay
2024-03-05 08:55 - 12:30 | Circular Quay, Sydney Cove, Sydney, NSW, 2000, Australia
This is a section of the Bondi to Manly wharf which we are repeating because it is fabulous and provides some shade protection from the sun. It starts at the Watsons Bay Wharf and continues through to Parsley Bay, Nielson Park, Bottle and Glass Point. Accompanies by stunning view, you will keep walking through the Hermitage Foreshore Walk, passing the many historical cottages, reserves, small beaches and bays, before reaching Double Bay Wharf. This walk is approximately 11kms and will take approximately 3 hours. Easy walk. Undulating terrain with some steps along the Hermitage foreshore. Some sections involve street walking. You must not be carrying any injuries and be able to walk consistently at a moderate pace. Please bring a hat, water and morning tea.
DATE: Tuesday 5 March
TIME: 8:55 – 12:30 (includes travel time on Ferry to Watsons Bay)
VENUE: Circular Quay – arrive 8:55 at the wharf to catch the 9:05 ferry arriving at Watsons Bay at 9:35. Note this is a Hop-On-Off Harbour Explorer ferry.

COST: Lunch at Double Bay at your own expense
RSVP TO: Email: SWICchallengewalk@gmail.com.
LEADERS: Sue Jamieson and Thana Sivaganam
RSVP BY: Thursday 29 February
TRANSPORT: Watsons Bay Ferry provided by Captain Cook Cruises. You can return from Double Bay via train from Edgecliff Station or ferry from Double Bay.

Classical Music Group
2024-03-08 11:00 - 12:00 | Sydney Opera House, Bennelong Point, Sydney, NSW, 2000, Australia
Welcome to Living Sound – 2024 Season of Sydney Symphony Orchestra
performing in Opera House Concert Hall.
First concert from Tea and Symphony series is on the 8th of March at 11 am.
It takes one hour only, no intervals. Free tea and coffee with biscuits will be served
from 10 am. We will meet in the foyer and on the terrace ( with the bridge view).
Afterwards some members stay for lunch at House Canteen under the Opera House.
Chief Conductor Simone Young will be conducting Schumann’s Second Symphony.
Tickets might be bought at box office at Opera House ( ph 9250 7777 ) or
SSO box office ( ph 8215 4600) or online.
Grace, the convenor chose and bought tickets for following concerts :

Date & Day
Concert
Theatre
Time
Grace’s seat

Friday (8 March)
Schumann’s Second Symphony
Concert Hall – Sydney Opera House
11.00am – 12md
Box Y – 65

Thursday
(21 March)
Beethoven’s Third Symphony
Concert Hall – Sydney Opera House
1.30pm – 3.30pm
Box E -37

Friday
(3 May)
A Musical Tempest – Purcell, Sibelius, Tchaikovsky with actor John Bell
Concert Hall – Sydney Opera House
11.00am – 12md
Box Y – 65

Thursday
(8 August))
Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto
Concert Hall – Sydney Opera House
1.30pm – 3.30pm
Box E -37

Friday
(18 October)
Gershwin, Stravinsky, Ravel
Concert Hall – Sydney Opera House
11.00am – 12md
Box Y – 65

Friday
(8 November)
Mozart’s Symphony No.41
Concert Hall – Sydney Opera House
11.00am – 12md
Box E – 51

Thursday
(28 November)
Stravinsky’s The Rite of Spring
Concert Hall – Sydney Opera House
1.30pm – 3.30pm
Box Y – 65

SWIC International Women’s Day Morning Tea
2024-03-12 10:00 - 11:30 | S. H. Ervin Gallery, 2 Watson Rd, Millers Point, NSW, 2000, Australia
Please join us at the Trust Café at S.H Ervin Gallery to commemorate International Women’s Day for this month’s Morning Tea. Coffee, Tea, finger sandwiches and lamingtons will be served.
International Women’s Day is a global holiday celebrated annually & as a focal point in the women’s rights movement. IWD gives focus to issues such as gender equality, reproductive rights, and violence and abuse against women.
Our guest speaker will be:
Sahera Kumar, Director United Nations Australian Association (UNAA) NSW, Founder of SHEroes & Global leadership Consultant.
Sahera will talk about the UN and women and children in the context of International Women’s Day.
DATE: Tuesday 12 March 2023
TIME: 10.00am – 11.45am
COST: $10.00: Please pay on the SWIC website and add your phone number and the name of the outing: International Morning Tea.
PAYMENT OPTIONS:
Payment Option 1: By Credit Card through the Payments page on the website
Payment Option 2: Online (direct deposit) into the SWIC bank account
Account Name: SWIC Inc.
BSB No: 062-005 Account No: 11889493
Description: International Morning Tea Ervin Gallery
RSVP TO: Jill McLean jill.mclean@jarie.com.au
Important reminder: You must RSVP as well as pay.
VENUE: Trust Café: S H Ervin Gallery: Watson Road, Observatory Hill, The Rocks
There is limited parking.
RSVP BY: Monday 2 March 2024
How to Get there:
Walking directions:
From Circular Quay
Walk to George Street, The Rocks. Turn left into Argyle Street and walk under the famous Argyle Cut to climb the stairs opposite the Garrison Church. Turn left at the top of the stairs and follow Watson Road past the Sydney Observatory to the National Trust Centre.
From Kent Street
Follow the historic Agar Steps (opposite the Langham Hotel) up to the National Trust Centre.
From Wynyard and the city
At No. 1 York Street walk through the expressway underpass. Follow the tunnel, keeping to the right, until you come up on Kent Street . Walk along Kent Street to the Agar Steps, or follow the approach to the Bridge, which will take you past the National Trust Centre on your left.
Driving directions
Drive down Kent Street, right into Argyle Street, right again into Watson Road and follow it around past the Sydney Observatory to the National Trust Centre. Free Parking is available on site.
Public Transport directions
Bus: Route 311 from Railway Square (via Elizabeth Bay) terminates at Argyle Street. Walk up Watson Road, Observatory Hill and follow the signs.
Routes 324 and 325 terminate in Hickson Road, Walsh Bay. Walk up the Hickson stairs or Windmill steps to Kent Street.
Train: to Wynyard or Circular Quay and proceed as above.
Ferry: to Circular Quay and proceed as above.

EXPLORE SYDNEY WALK – Palm Beach to Avalon Beach
2024-03-13 10:00 - 12:30 | Palm Beach, 24 Ocean Rd, Palm Beach, NSW, 2108, Australia
It will take us two hours to do this 7 km walk from South Palm Beach to Avalon Beach. This walk traverses three of Sydney’s finest beaches below some of its most expensive coastal real estate and the coastal views are outstanding for the entire walk.
It is not a difficult walk but be aware there are some long steps, and that we’ll walk on the sand on Whale beach.
We will meet at 10am at the 2108 Espresso Café on the southern end of Palm Beach and climb up over the headland to the next beach, Whale Beach. Then we’ll continue to Bangalley Head where we’ll cross the bush with the most stunning views and follow the path down to Avalon where we there are many cafés and boutiques.
DATE: Wednesday, 13 March 2024.
TIME: 10 am – 12 pm
MEETING POINT: 2108 Espresso Café, 24 Ocean Road, on the southern end of Palm Beach. Just next to the bus 199 terminal stop.
COST: Lunch in a cafe in Avalon at your own expense.
RSVP TO: Corinne Drouin via email only on swicdiscoversydneywalks@gmail.com
RSVP BY: Monday, 11 March 2024
TRANSPORT: By bus (B1 to Mona Vale and the 199 till the last stop) or by car (easy to park at Palm Beach and then you can come back to your car by bus 199 from Avalon).

Short walk
2024-03-15 10:30 - 12:30 | Circular Quay, Sydney Cove, Sydney, NSW, 2000, Australia
Walk from Circular Quay to Woolloomooloo via the Opera House
DATE: Friday 15 March 2024
TIME: 10.30am – 12.30pm
VENUE: Meeting details will be provided to participants closer to the event.
COST: Refreshments at member’s own expense
RSVP TO: cpowell40@live.com.au
RSVP BY: cob Thursday 14 March2024

SWIC Theatre Group – 16 March 2024 – ‘Holding the Man’
2024-03-16 14:00 - 16:00 | Belvoir St Theatre, 25 Belvoir Street, Surry Hills, Sydney, NSW, 2010, Australia
The love story which defined a generation, and a classic of the Australian stage, in a brand new production.
ADAPTED BY TOMMY MURPHY FROM THE BOOK BY TIMOTHY CONIGRAVE
DIRECTED BY EAMON FLACK
At a Jesuit boys’ school in 1970s Australia, Tim’s eye falls on the footy captain, John. To their mutual incredulity, they fall in love – a love that lasts as they ‘and the society around them’ change, mature.
When they both test positive to something called HIV, dreams, liberations, boundless possibilities vanish into the ether. But Tim and John have each other, and they’ll need to hold on tight for what’s to come.
Deeply felt, frank and moving, Tim Conigrave’s memoir of living and dying changed Australia. Tommy Murphy’s 2006 adaptation became an instant hit, and brought a new audience to this heartfelt and laugh-out-loud-in-the-sadness story of queer identity and the quirks of love.
DATE: Saturday 16 March 2024
TIME: 2.00pm (MATINEE)
VENUE: Upstairs Theatre, Belvoir St Theatre, 25 Belvoir Street, Surry Hills NSW 2010
TICKETS: $79 Seniors + Booking Fee
Theatre Group Co-Convenors, Cherry Spoor and Judith Nguyen, have purchased seats F32, F33
To buy your tickets visit www.belvoir.com.au, or ring the box office on 9699 3444
PRE-PERFORMANCE (Optional): You are welcome to join Co-Convenors Judith and Cherry for a casual lunch at 12 noon at Mai Viet, a casual Asian/Vietnamese restaurant at 279 Cleveland Street, Redfern. It is a short walk from Belvoir Street Theatre.
RSVP TO: Judith Nguyen at nguyenjm@bigpond.net.au
RSVP BY: 9 March 2024 as we will need to book a table
*************************************************
THEATRE GROUP – Looking Ahead in 2024
To enable you to plan your diary, below are the dates and selected plays for Theatre Group in 2024. Newcomers to SWIC are very welcome – if you need help with booking or have any queries please contact Judith Nguyen at Judith.m.nguyen@gmail.com or Cherry Spoor at bungalowbrennan@yahoo.com

Date & Day
Play
Type
Theatre
Time
Seats (Convenors)

13 April (Saturday)
Into the Shimmering World
A poetic Australian story
Wharf 1 Theatre (STC)
7.30pm
P11, P12

16 May (Thursday)
The President
A Sydney/Dublin co-production of 20th C political drama
Roslyn Packer Theatre (STC)
7.30pm
C32, C33

1 June (Saturday)
Never Closer (MATINEE)
Irish Australian Contemporary Drama
Belvoir Street Theatre
2.00pm
J15, J16

28 July (Sunday)
Uncle Vanya (MATINEE)
Chekhov’s Tragicomedy
Ensemble Theatre
5.00pm
F44, F45

17 August (Saturday)
The Turn of the Screw (MATINEE)
Opera by Benjamin Britten after a story by Henry James
Hayes Theatre Company
2.00pm
G7, G8

19 Sept (Thursday)
Colder Than Here (MATINEE)
Offbeat Comedy
Ensemble Theatre
6.15pm
C41, C42

5 October (Saturday)
Seventeen (MATINEE)
Contemporary Drama
Seymour Centre
2.00pm
E7, E8

30 Nov (Saturday)
The Heartbreak Choir (MATINEE)
Life-affirming Comedy
Ensemble Theatre
2.00pm
E10, E11

3 Dec (Tuesday)
Sweat (MATINEE)
New American theatre by twice Pulitzer-winning playwright Lyn Nottage
Wharf 1 Theatre (STC)
6.30pm
K5, K6

Art and Culture: 24th Biennale of Sydney Ten Thousand Suns Chau Chak Wing Museum
2024-03-19 10:50 - 12:00 | Chau Chak Wing Museum, University Place, University of Sydney, Camperdown, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
For the first time, the Chau Chak Wing Museum will be an Exhibition Partner as part of the 24th Biennale of Sydney. The 24th Biennale of Sydney works across time periods, beyond the borders separating cultural practices rooted in different genealogies, and from all continents. The exhibition owes a profound debt to the rich heritage of what is known today as Australia, especially to the struggles and practices in which First Nations communities and migrants have faced and played key roles.
This edition revisits legacies of collective resistance, strength, and exuberance, embracing a more hopeful and joyful outlook, while celebrating the exhibition as a carnival of rays and radiance, aptly titled Ten Thousand Suns.
The Chau Chak Wing Museum exhibiting artists:

Carrolup Child Artists: Arthur Bropho, Alma Cuttabut, Parnell Dempster, Phillip Jackson, Gregory Kelly, Edie Wallam, and five once known child artists.
Choy Ka Fai
Citra Sasmita
Diane Burns
Doreen Chapman
Juan Davila
Mangala Bai Maravi
Martin Wong
Niño de Elche & Pedro G. Romero
William Yang

DATE: Tuesday 19 March 2024
TIME: 11am – 12noon.
VENUE: Chau Chak Wing Museum, University Ave, Camperdown NSW 2050. Phone: (02) 9351 2812
Meet at the main entrance to the museum no later than 10.50am.
COST: Entry $18.50 / Seniors Concession: $12.50
RSVP: Places are limited, so kindly RSVP before payment to determine that a place is available: I will always try to get back to you within 24 hours. If you have not received a reply kindly SMS 0438469044.
RSVP: Kay Nicholas: kay.k.nicholas@gmail.com
RSVP BY: 10 March 2024. Early RSVP is advisable as places are limited.
PAYMENT OPTIONS: (e.g. Payable on the day OR the two payment options below)
Please note new SWIC bank account details below – from September 2023
Payment Option 1 (Preferred): By Credit Card through the Payments section of the website
Payment Option 2: Online (direct deposit) into the SWIC bank account
Account Name: SWIC Inc.
BSB No: 062-005
Account No: 11889493
Description: Event + your initial and surname
TRANSPORT:
Car: Whilst is parking is available it is at a premium during University Terms. Parking is available at Broadway Shopping Centre 0-2 hours free; 2-3 hours $7.50; 3-4 hours $15.00. It is a short walk from there to The University of Sydney and Museum.
Train: Alight at Central. It is a short 5-minute bus ride to University Gates. Bus: Visit Transport NSW for help planning your public transport to the University. Note: The Chau Chak Wing Museum is located opposite the University’s Quadrangle buildings. Entrance to the University is through the Parramatta Rd main gate.

North Shore Evening Club - Note changed dates
2024-03-19 17:30 - 19:30 | The Kirribilli Club, 11 Harbourview Cres, Lavender Bay, Sydney, NSW, 2060, Australia
The SWIC North Shore Evening Book Club invites SWIC members to join them in 2024.
The previously advertised dates have had to change to those below due to The Kirribilli Club now being closed on Mondays.
It will now be held on the first Tuesday of the month (except in March and April – as per below).
5.30pm – 7.30pm at the Kirribilli club.
Food at own cost.
If anyone is interested in joining this group, please send an email to jill.mclean@jarie.com.au
Confirmation of attendance is required for each week as per other groups.
The book list until June 2024:

Date
Book
Author

Tuesday 19 March
The Queens Apprentice
Tracy Ryan

Tuesday 9 April
Still
Matt Nable

Tuesday 7 May
Wrong Place Wrong Time
Gillian Mcallister

Tuesday 4 June
Restless Dolly Maunder
Kate Grenville

Ladies Night Out
2024-03-19 17:30 - 19:30 | The Oaks, Neutral Bay, 118 Military Rd, Neutral Bay, Sydney, NSW, 2089, Australia
An evening out to enjoy each other’s company and a few drinks together.
DATE: Tuesday 19 March 2024
TIME: 5.30 pm to 7.30 pm
VENUE : The Oaks, 118 Military Road, Neutral Bay 2089
COST: Pay for your own food and drinks.
RSVP TO: Sangeeta/ Elaine
swicniteout@gmail.com
RSVP BY: Wednesday 13 March 2024
Buses from City, Northern Beaches or St Leonard’s along Military Rd.

Travel Conversation
2024-03-20 10:00 - 12:00 | Home of Catherine Marsh, 64 Ellalong Road, Cremorne, Sydney, NSW, 2090, Australia
This month we will discuss active holidays – walks, cycles, kayak etc.
These can be short walks or kayaks over a few hours, day long walks or cycles or multi-day walks, cycles or kayaks. They can be city or town activities, guided or self-guided.
We will also invite you to share your travel plans for the year and ask any questions that you have about this travel or share details of recent travel.
DATE: Wednesday 20 March 2024
TIME: 10am – 12pm
VENUE: 64 Ellalong Road, Cremorne, NSW 2090
RSVP TO: Mimi Flaherty Willis and Catherine Marsh – travel.swicsydney@gmail.com
RSVP BY: Friday 15 March 2024
TRANSPORT: Car – Plenty of untimed street parking
Bus – 243 from Neutral Bay Junction to Macpherson St/Ellalong Rd
100 from the city. Get off at Military Rd at Prince St and walk down Macpherson St

Classical Music Group
2024-03-21 13:30 - 15:30 | Sydney Opera House, Bennelong Point, Sydney, NSW, 2000, Australia
Welcome to Living Sound – 2024 Season of Sydney Symphony Orchestra
performing in Opera House Concert Hall.
Second concert from Thursday Afternoon Symphony series is on 21 st of March
at 1.30 pm. We will meet 45 minutes before the concert for coffee or wine
and listen to pre-concert talk in the foyer of Opera House.
The program is wonderful- Four Preludes by Debussy, Piano Concerto in G
performed by Vikingur Olafsson and Symphony No 3, Eroica by Beethoven.
Donald Runnicles will be conducting.
Tickets might be bought at box office at Opera House ( ph9250 7777) or
SSO box office ( 8215 4600 ph ) or online.
Grace, the convenor chose and bought tickets for following concerts :

Date & Day
Concert
Theatre
Time
Grace’s seat

Thursday
(21 March)
Beethoven’s Third Symphony
Concert Hall – Sydney Opera House
1.30pm – 3.30pm
Box E -37

Friday
(3 May)
A Musical Tempest – Purcell, Sibelius, Tchaikovsky with actor John Bell
Concert Hall – Sydney Opera House
11.00am – 12md
Box Y – 65

Thursday
(8 August))
Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto
Concert Hall – Sydney Opera House
1.30pm – 3.30pm
Box E -37

Friday
(18 October)
Gershwin, Stravinsky, Ravel
Concert Hall – Sydney Opera House
11.00am – 12md
Box Y – 65

Friday
(8 November)
Mozart’s Symphony No.41
Concert Hall – Sydney Opera House
11.00am – 12md
Box E – 51

Thursday
(28 November)
Stravinsky’s The Rite of Spring
Concert Hall – Sydney Opera House
1.30pm – 3.30pm
Box Y – 65

Rummikub
2024-03-22 13:00 - 15:30 | Kirribilli Club, 11 Harbourview Crescent, Lavender Bay, Sydney, NSW, 2060, Australia
Rummikub is an exciting and fun game, just right for exercising the little grey cells in our brains and making new friends. If you don’t know the game, it has a bit in common with the card game Rummy. It is very simple to learn, has lots of twists, and quickly becomes addictive!
Beginners are welcome and there is no need to bring your own game. It is possible to play Rummikub with different numbers of people in one game.
We generally play at the Kirribilli Club in Lavender Bay but we also play in member’s homes depending on current health advice. This is often in the Mosman area.
DATE: Usually 2nd and 3rd Fridays of the month
TIME: 1.00pm – 3.30pm
VENUE: The Kirribilli Club, 11 Harbourview Crescent, Lavender Bay
RSVP TO: Catherine Marsh at rummikubswic@gmail.com
For changes on the day, please text or ring Catherine on 0406 423 304
RSVP BY: Thursday morning before play on Friday
TRANSPORT: Parking available at The Kirribilli Club. Milsons Point is the closest Train station, a 7-minute walk. See website for further details: https://www.kirribilliclub.com.au/

Go Saturday- ARTEXPRESS 2024
2024-03-23 14:00 - 16:00 | Art Gallery of NSW, Art Gallery Road, The Domain, Sydney, NSW, 2000, Australia
An annual event at the Art Gallery of NSW, ARTEXPRESS 2024 is a showcase of the crème de la crème of the 2023 HSC Visual Arts major works. On display is an impressive array of different mediums: ceramics, graphic design, photomedia, printmaking, painted artworks and many more!
DATE: Saturday 23 March 2024
TIME: 2pm to 4pm
VENUE: Art Gallery of NSW, South Building Lower level 2
Art Gallery Rd, Sydney NSW 2000
Tel 02 9225 1819
https://www.artgallery.nsw.gov.au/whats-on/exhibitions/artexpress-2024/
COST: Free entry
RSVP TO: Sian Ware at sianware1@gmail.com or 0412 937 485
RSVP BY: By Tuesday 19 March 2024
PAYMENT OPTIONS: N/A
TRANSPORT: Closet train station is Martin Place.

Sketchbook
2024-03-26 10:30 - 12:00 | Caffe Gigi, Circular Quay East, Sydney, NSW, 2000, Australia
A social group meeting in scenic Sydney spots once a month – for a coffee, chat and an informal creative session. All levels and all art media are welcome. It’s a perfect platform to try new things or have a regular art session.
DATE: Tuesday 26 March 2024
TIME: 10.30am – 12.00pm
VENUE: Caffe Gigi, kiosk 1/14 Circular Quay East, Sydney 2000 NSW
COST: refreshments purchased by participants at own cost
RSVP TO: Maria Brookes, mkbrookes@outlook.com
RSVP BY: 24 March 2024
TRANSPORT: Buses, ferries, train to Circular Quay. The meeting point is near Wharf 2

Monthly Activity - Heritage Post Office Tour: Fullerton Hotel (Waitlist)
2024-03-28 11:45 - 13:15 | The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, 1 Martin Pl, Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2000, Australia
Dear Monthly Activists
This month we will visit the Fullerton Hotel at Martin Place for their Heritage Tour where the resident guide will journey with us, delving into the vibrant history and culture of Sydney’s former General Post Office
The Sydney General Post Office (GPO) was constructed in two stages, beginning in 1866 and designed under the guidance of colonial architect James Barnet. It was regarded as a building that would come to symbolise Sydney in the same way the Houses of Parliament in Westminster represents London, and the Eiffel Tower represents Paris.
On September 1, 1874, the first stage of the GPO was opened, and Sydney was mesmerised by the first major building development in Sydney. In 1891, the clock tower was finally completed, and the bells rang out across Sydney for the first time.
Delve into the vibrant history and culture of Sydney’s former GPO, and let our resident tour guide bring you on a journey through time on the GPO Heritage Tour, to discover the stories, tales and legends of the city’s iconic Grand Dame.
DATE: Thursday 28 March 2024
TIME: 11.45am – 1.15pm VENUE: Fullerton Hotel, Martin Place, Sydney.
Meet at the Concierge Desk 10 minutes prior
COST: $20.00
RSVP TO: swic.activitymonthly@gmail.com
Please add your phone number and the name of the outing: Fullerton Heritage Tour
Caren Trafford, Monthly Activity Organiser
RSVP BY: Thursday 21st March 2024 to Caren Trafford
Please note: there are only 15 places, so book early

GOOD FRIDAY
2024-03-29 | NSW

EASTER SATURDAY
2024-03-30 | NSW

EASTER SUNDAY
2024-03-31 | NSW

Challenging Walk – Bondi to Coogee Beach & Return *Note this walk has been recently changed*
2024-04-02 09:45 - 15:00 | Bondi Pavillion, Queen Elizabeth Drive, Bondi Beach, NSW, 2026
An iconic cliff top coastal walk from Bondi to Coogee beach. It features stunning views of beaches, parks and bays. We will start from the Pavilion at Bondi Beach and return there post lunch at Clovelly Beach. This walk is approximately 12kms (6kms each way) and will take approximately 4 hours plus lunch. It’s an exposed walk with several areas with steps. You must not be carrying any injuries and be able to walk consistently at a moderate pace. Please bring a hat, water, morning tea.
DATE: Tuesday 2 April 2024
TIME: 9.45am – 2:45pm (includes lunch time)
VENUE: Bondi Pavillion steps at 9.45am
COST: Lunch at attendees at the Sea Salt Cafe at Clovelly
RSVP TO: Email: SWICchallengewalk@gmail.com.
LEADERS: Sue Jamieson – Mobile 0488170285 and Thana Sivaganam – Mobile 0432553338 Please make sure you contact one of the leadersvia mobile if your plans change and you are unable to attend. This will prevent any delays in starting the walk.
RSVP BY: Thursday 28 March 2024
TRANSPORT: There is paid parking at Bondi Beach or free parking in the backstreets. The 380 and 333 buses leave the city from Elizabeth Street next to Hyde Park and go to Bondi Beach. The Eastern Suburbs train line reaches Bondi Junction from Central, Town Hall and Martin Place. Then change for a 380 or 333 bus to Bondi Beach which is a 15-minute ride.

Evening Book Group
2024-04-08 17:30 - 20:00 | Imperial Hotel, Paddington, 252 Oxford St, Paddington, NSW, 2010, Australia
The Evening Book Group meets on the first Monday of the month, in the evening, and is for members who may be working or have daytime commitments. It is intended to be more social than academic and members meet in a central location. The reading list differs from that of the Tuesday book group. See the Noticeboard for the 2024 Evening Book Group Reading List.
DATE: First Monday of the month
TIME: 5.30pm to 8.00pm (book discussion will start around 6.00pm)
VENUE: The Imperial Hotel, 252 Oxford St, Paddington https://www.imperialhotelpaddington.com.au
COST: Pay for your own drinks (and food if you wish to eat)
TRANSPORT:
By Bus: From the city you can take the multiple bus routes which all stop opposite in Oxford Street
By Car: Parking
Street parking is readily available
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION: Contact the Convenor, Caroline Frangopoulos, at swiceveningbookclub@gmail.com or cmfrangopoulos@gmail.com

North Shore Evening Book Club - Note changed dates
2024-04-09 17:30 - 19:30 | The Kirribilli Club, 11 Harbourview Cres, Lavender Bay, Sydney, NSW, 2060, Australia
The SWIC North Shore Evening Book Club invites SWIC members to join them in 2024.
The previously advertised dates have had to change to those below due to The Kirribilli Club now being closed on Mondays.
It will now be held on the first Tuesday of the month (except in March and April – as per below).
5.30pm – 7.30pm at the Kirribilli club.
Food at own cost.
If anyone is interested in joining this group, please send an email to jill.mclean@jarie.com.au
Confirmation of attendance is required for each week as per other groups.
The book list until June 2024:

Date
Book
Author

Tuesday 9 April
Still
Matt Nable

Tuesday 7 May
Wrong Place Wrong Time
Gillian Mcallister

Tuesday 4 June
Restless Dolly Maunder
Kate Grenville

Explore Sydney Walk – Narrabeen Lake
2024-04-10 10:00 - 12:00 | Narrabeen Lagoon, Narrabeen, Sydney, NSW, 2101, Australia
The Narrabeen Lagoon Trail is a nice, flat and easy 8 km walk surrounded by beautiful bushland, mangroves and parklands.
We will meet at 10am at the Narrabeen B1-B-Line Bus stop. If you are coming by car, you can park in the parking just behind the bus stop. It will take us about two hours to do the loop around the lake, home to nearly 200 species of birds.
Then, we’ll have lunch in a cafe or at one of the restaurants on the lake. Please could you let us know if you would like to stay for lunch as we may need to book a table.
DATE: Wednesday, 10 April 2024.
TIME: 10 am – 12 pm
MEETING POINT: Narrabeen B1-BLine bus stop.
COST: Lunch in a cafe on the lake at your own expense.
RSVP TO: Corinne Drouin via email only on swicdiscoversydneywalks@gmail.com
RSVP BY: Monday, 8 April 2024
TRANSPORT: By bus B1-BLine (Narrabeen stop on Pittwater Road) or by car (easy to park at Narrabeen Lake just behind the B1-BLine bus stop).

SWIC Theatre Group – 13 April 2024 – ‘Into the Shimmering World’ – Wharf 1 Theatre (STC)
2024-04-13 19:30 - 21:30 | Wharf 1, Sydney Theatre Company, Wharf 4/5, 15 Hickson Road, Walsh Bay, Sydney, NSW, 2000, Australia
A poetic Australian story of love, renewal and living on the land, starring Kerry Armstrong and Colin Friels
By Angus Cerini
Directed by Paige Rattray
The full force of nature
From the monumental playwriting talents of 2020 Patrick White Playwrights Fellow, Angus Cerini (The Bleeding Tree, Wonnangatta), comes this epic and poetic story of love, loss and renewal.
Stage and screen legends Colin Friels and Kerry Armstrong play Ray and Floss, a farming couple who have lived off the land their entire adult lives. Through boom times and bust, they’ve been each other’s support and constant companion. But at the tail end of a once-in-a-generation drought, both are on the precipice of earth-shattering change and transformation.
Into the Shimmering World will beguile audiences with its gothic and dreamlike take on the Australian landscape, its lush and musical language, and its powerful exploration of the depths of our national psyche.
STC Director of New Work and Artistic Development Paige Rattray (Do not go gentle…) will premiere this new Australian masterpiece in the glorious expanse of an extended Wharf 1 Theatre, in a production that is set to be a rich evocation of the mysteries of the natural world and a lyrical look at humanity’s changing relationship to it.
What awaits Ray and Floss when the drought finally breaks?
Approx. duration 90 mins (no interval)
Content Infrequent strong language, references to self-harm, and gunshots.
DATE: Saturday 13 April 2024
TIME: 7.30pm
VENUE: Wharf 1 Theatre (Sydney Theatre Company), Wharf 4/5, 15 Hickson Road, Walsh Bay, Sydney 2000
Theatre Group Co-Convenors, Cherry Spoor and Judith Nguyen, have purchased seats P11 and P12
To buy your tickets contact the Box Office on 9250 177 or email boxoffice@sydneytheatre.com.au
PRE-THEATRE DRINKS/SNACKS (Optional): There will also be the option to join us for pre-theatre drinks/small food or boards at The Theatre Bar at the End of the Wharf. Please advise if you are interested in participating.
RSVP TO: Judith Nguyen at judith.m.nguyen@gmail.com
RSVP BY: 5 April 2024 as we will need to book a table
*************************************************
THEATRE GROUP – Looking Ahead in 2024

Date & Day
Play
Type
Theatre

Time
Seats (Convenors)

16 May (Thursday)
The President
A Sydney/Dublin co-production of 20th C political drama
Roslyn Packer Theatre (STC)
7.30pm

C32, C33

1 June (Saturday)
Never Closer (MATINEE)
Irish Australian Contemporary Drama
Belvoir Street Theatre
2.00pm
J15, J16

28 July (Sunday)
Uncle Vanya (MATINEE)
Chekhov’s Tragicomedy
Ensemble Theatre

5.00pm

F44, F45

17 August (Saturday)
The Turn of the Screw (MATINEE)
Opera by Benjamin Britten after a story by Henry James
Hayes Theatre Company
2.00pm
G7, G8

19 September (Thursday)
Colder Than Here (MATINEE)
Offbeat Comedy
Ensemble Theatre
6.15pm
C41, C42

5 October (Saturday)
Seventeen (MATINEE)
Contemporary Drama
Seymour Centre
2.00pm
E7, E8

30 November (Saturday)
The Heartbreak Choir (MATINEE)
Life-affirming Comedy
Ensemble Theatre
2.00pm
E10, E11

December (Date TBA)
Sweat (MATINEE)
New American theatre by twice Pulitzer-winning playwright Lyn Nottage
Wharf 1 Theatre (STC)
6.30pm
J15, J16

Special Event - Sunday Lunch at Watson's Bay
2024-04-14 11:55 - 16:00 | Watson’s Bay Boutique Hotel, Military Rd, Watson's Bay, NSW, Australia
Join us for a relaxing ferry ride from Circular Quay to Watsons Bay.
For those interested and able, a short walk up to the Gap to enjoy the views, then lunch at the Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel.
DATE: Sunday April 14 2024
TIME: Meet at Wharf 6 Ferry at 11:55 arrive 12.25
WALK: From Ferry to the Gap
LUNCH: Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel 13:30
Everyone to pay for their own transport and lunch
Places limited, first come first served. Partners welcome.
RSVP Date: Tuesday 9 April 2024
RSVP to: Jill McLean jill.mclean@jarie.com.au

Art and Culture - SWIC Private Tour Art Gallery NSW - Celebrating 24th Biennale of Sydney (Waitlist)
2024-04-16 09:30 - 11:00 | Art Gallery of NSW, Art Gallery Road, The Domain, Sydney, NSW, 2000, Australia
Dear Art and Culture Enthusiasts,
Join us for our second Art and Culture Event celebrating the 24th Biennale of Sydney. On this occasion we explore the ‘Ten Thousand Suns’ exhibition at the Art Gallery of New South Wales with our own AGNSW Experienced Lead Guides. This exhibition brings First Nations understandings of the cosmos to the fore, and celebrates carnival traditions, such as music, dance and regalia.
DATE: Tuesday 16 April 2024
TIME: 9.30am -11am (approximately)
VENUE: Art Gallery of NSW, on Gadigal Country-South Building Art Gallery Road The Domain, Sydney NSW 2000.
MEETING PLACE: Outside the main entrance to old South Building Art Gallery NSW at 9.20am. Please note: Late Arrivals: Admission cannot be guaranteed outside of scheduled booking time.
COST: $15 (Special SWIC Price)
RSVP TO Kay Nicholas Email: kay.k.nicholas@gmail.com with your name and mobile phone number.
RSVP BY: 9 April 2024. Please note that it is advisable to RSVP early as this event has a maximum of 30 members. When the event is full, we will go to ‘Waitlist’. Do not pay until your place is confirmed. We will always endeavour to get back within 24 hours. If you have not heard back, please SMS: Kay Nicholas MOB. 0438469044
PAYMENT OPTIONS:
Payment Option 1 (Preferred): By Credit Card through the Payments section of the website
Payment Option 2: Online (direct deposit) into the SWIC bank account
Account Name: SWIC Inc.
BSB No: 062-005
Account No: 11889493
Description: Event + your initial and surname
TRANSPORT: The NSW Art Gallery is located on the Eastern side of Sydney’s CBD, next to the Royal Botanic Gardens and the Domain, just down the road from St Mary’s Cathedral. The Art Gallery is approximately a 5-minute walk from Macquarie Street, across the Domain, or from Hyde Park. Public transit access: St James rail (15-minute walk); Martin Place rail (20-minute walk.

Ladies Night Out
2024-04-16 17:50 - 19:30 | Golden Sheaf Hotel, 429 New South Head Road, Double Bay, Sydney, NSW, 2028, Australia
A fun evening to share drinks and food together
DATE: Tuesday 16 April 2024
TIME: 5.50pm to 7.30 pm
VENUE: Golden Sheaf, 429 New South Head Road, Double Bay, Sydney
COST: Pay for your own drinks and food
RSVP TO: Sangeeta and Elaine
swicniteout@gmail.com
RSVP BY: Friday 12 April 2024
TRANSPORT: Bus from Town Hall or Edgecliff Station
