Wandering Around Sydney

Miscellaneous musings on random sights around the big city. Development stops here! Actually, the botanic gardens start there.

Construction is booming in Australia, whether you're renovating an old building or developing from scratch. Make sure to wrap your site with enticing pics, past and future.

Holy Mary. At the Cathedral named for her, a modern, let's be frank, sexier version of her is on display. With baby Jesus, looking a little like a Sears portrait studio picture.

Holy cow. Oops, it's a holy pig, boar. This sculpture in front of Sydney Hospital is a replica of the Il Porcellino, little pig, located in Florence, Italy. Snout rubs must be for good luck on tonsil operations. More fun with sculptures, the Sydney Opera House in shellwork by Aboriginal artist, Esme Timbery. What's next, Opera House in Rice Krispie treats? Should work.

Behold the world's largest hanging animated turret clock. Is that a thing? It's called The Great Australian Clock and it hangs (turrets?) in the Queen Victoria Building market and features dioramas telling the history of Australia from both Aboriginal and immigrant (white) perspectives. Learn something besides the time while you shop.

A Cloudy Beach Day Near Sydney

It can't always be sunny at the beach. Which means a nice chance to enjoy the change in the weather and maybe take a look at some nearby impressive art.

Unsettled conditions and the flags are up. Everyone got the message except this brave/deluded swimmer.

What to do at Bondi beach if you can't be swimming? Might as well take a look at the long procession of lovely murals that line the main sidewalk next to the beach. Channeling Spike Lee's Mookie from his movie, Do The Right Thing. Getting a Brother on the wall. Surfers come in all shapes, sizes, and moods.

"Is the beach open yet?" No, it's not.

OK, back to the murals. Miami Vice gorilla. Of course, an ANZAC mural. Red poppies and Lest We Forget, recognizing military sacrifice and Australia's most sacred day.

"So, the beach is still not open, where am I supposed to swim?" Head to iconic Icebergs Swim Club, no choppy surf can stop your lap count.