Tagged: Events

Sydney set to light up for Vivid 2019

Posted on May 15, 2019 by admin - News & Reviews

In just a few short weeks, Sydney’s night-time skyline is set to come alive with all the colour, brilliance and beauty that is Vivid 2019.

Running over three weeks, Vivid sees the city’s iconic buildings transformed into canvasses of light, while music and creative ideas abound.

Here’s an insight into what’s in store at Vivid Sydney 2019.

11 years of Vivid

This year will mark the 11th anniversary of the Vivid Sydney Festival. Running from May 24 to June 15, the events is described as “Australia’s most loved and awarded festival” bringing together “light artists, music makers and brilliant minds to share their creativity” across the city.

The harbour is a focal point for the event, lighting up from 6pm each evening, and encapsulating iconic sites such as the sails of the Sydney Opera House, and nine precincts including the Royal Botanic Garden, Barangaroo, Darling Harbour, Circular Quay, the Rocks, Luna Park, Taronga Zoo, and Chatswood.

Vivid at Darling Harbour

Darling Harbour is one of the major venues for the Vivid Festival, and this year it’s set for a “space-age reboot”.

“Around Cockle Bay, mind-boggling electro-automotive super-bots have been sent to sow the seeds of a greener tomorrow. Epic in scale, the light and sound spectacle Robot SPACELand is built around a central 16m high unit, the Ecobot. After creating itself from crushed cars, it continues its endless duties crushing cars and extruding the building blocks of a new society,” Vivid.com explains.

At the Australian National Maritime Museum, proceedings will take on a slightly more marine feel, with a film about the incredible life of sharks projected onto the museum’s huge rooftop.

“Follow the shark’s journey through the oceans in three chapters: hunting, desire and renascence. On Sharks takes you inside the mind of a shark and asks us to reconsider sharks as prey, not just as predators.”

Meanwhile, Tumbalong Lights is back by popular demand, transforming Darling Harbour’s open space into an all-inclusive play area with an outer space theme.

On Friday and Saturday nights the ever-popular weekly fireworks will also be incorporated into all the light and action of Vivid at Darling Harbour.

Vivid at Barangaroo

Just a short stroll from King Street Wharf, Barangaroo is also set to play a central role in this year’s Vivid Festival.

The precinct will feature an installation called Winter Camp, where visitors will experience layers of light, sound and puppetry reflective of the land and water.

The interactive experience draws inspiration from the changing of the seasons, and invites visitors to share in the practice of hunting and gathering.

Vivid Times and Dates

Vivid Sydney will run for three weeks from May 24 until June 15. Lights switch on each night at 6pm and the city remains illuminated until 11pm.

You can learn more about the complete program for Vivid Sydney 2019 here.

About George’s

Located on the King Street Wharf amidst the beauty and excitement of Darling Harbour, George’s Mediterranean Bar and Grill is renowned as one of Sydney’s premier eateries. Come share the Greek hospitality for which we are renowned as we serve up harbourside dining in simply stunning surrounds.

You can learn more about our function facilities here, or contact us directly for further advice.

The perfect ingredients for any occasion

Posted on January 31, 2019 by admin - News & Reviews

Whether it’s an intimate dinner, a celebration with friends or a big bash to mark a milestone at the office, a truly memorable hospitality experience involves a blend of essential ingredients.

At George’s Mediterranean Bar and grill we are seasoned restauranteurs, who have established a stellar Sydney reputation for serving up cuisine, events and functions to suit every occasion.

Here’s an insight into the perfect ingredients for any occasion that continue to define our success…

Flavour

Imagine sumptuous seafood, succulent mains, and sensational share plates to enjoy among friends, all served with a distinctly Mediterranean twist.

This is the heart and soul of our menu at Georges, where we source the finest seasonal produce available to serve up a menu packed full of exquisite flavour.

Our menu is a nod to popular Greek flavours with a contemporary Australian influence, and it delights our clientele time and again.

We utilise traditional mouthwatering Mediterranean accompaniments like lemon, olive oil, tomato, feta and rosemary to release the fresh flavours of every meal.

Tradition and culture

George’s Mediterranean Bar and Grill owes much of its cooking technique and menu influence to our distinctly Greek roots.

That sees our menu heavily focused food as a celebration. Share plates, or mezze, are a feature, and banquet dining is a highlight, while our a la carte is also destined to delight.

As part of the Mediterranean tradition, many elements of the menu incorporate seafood, lamb, olives, feta and fresh produce, which are all items readily available and widely used for centuries in Greece.

Atmosphere

A true dining experience is one part food to satiate the soul, and one part a dining atmosphere to delight the senses.

We’re proud to boast an enviable reputation for both. Located at Darling Harbour, our indoor/outdoor restaurant overlooks the lively ambience of the waterfront.

From this vantage point we have the chance to witness some of Sydney’s most exciting events, but also enjoy an endless and ever-changing vista of the city’s picturesque harbour. There are the long, lazy days of summer, the twinkling lights of an autumn eve by the water, the crisp, cool colours of winter and the sparkling waterfront rejuvenation that comes with spring.

Any time of the year, George’s offers a waterfront destination that is chic, comfortable and always designed to delight.

Service

At its heart hospitality is about service. It’s about feeling warmly welcomed, well cared for and indulged in an atmosphere of relaxed surrounds.

With decades of hospitality experience, George’s Mediterranean Bar and grill is proud to offer service that complements our commitment to flavour and the welcoming ambience of our venue.

About George’s

You can learn more about our function facilities here, or contact us directly for further advice

A big year of events at George’s in 2019

Posted on December 31, 2018 by admin - News & Reviews

As we count the final hours of 2018, George’s Mediterranean Bar and Grill is preparing for another big year ahead, with a wealth of exciting events, functions and culinary delights etched into our 2019 calendar.

So, let’s take a sneak peek at what’s on the agenda at George’s restaurant in Darling Harbour in the New Year.

Love is in the air

As the celebrations of Christmas subside and the New Year’s festivities fade, George’s will be gearing up for the romantic event of the year – Valentine’s Day.

Each year we celebrate the international day of love in truly romantic style, with a special menu equaled only by the spectacular views and intimate ambience of our waterfront Darling Harbour location.

Stay tuned in the coming weeks as we reveal our menu for Valentine’s Day 2019 or make a booking early to secure your spot.

Easter enjoyment

Easter serves up some spectacular Sydney weather and offers the opportunity to relax in the company of family and friends.

At George’s it’s the perfect opportunity to head down to Darling Harbour and settle in for a brunch or lunch as part of a picturesque autumn long weekend.

Mum’s the word

Family and food go hand in hand in Greek culture and we relish the opportunity to celebrate major family events throughout the year, kicking off with Mother’s Day on the second Sunday in May.

We celebrate the event with fine fare and a festive feel and welcome the opportunity to extend our family’s hospitality to yours.

Father’s Day

As spring rejuvenates the harbour city, it’s time to celebrate the patriarch of the family with Father’s Day.

Father’s Day is another occasion we mark with enthusiasm at George’s, welcoming in families for a festive lunch or dinner on the first Sunday in September.

Melbourne Cup

It the race that stops the nation, and at George’s it’s an occasion that draws a crowd, with Melbourne Cup one of the most popular events on our annual calendar.

Grab your workmates or catch up with your social circle as we saddle up for a fine afternoon of fashion, festivity and horse racing on November 5.

Christmas parties

Come the end of November, George’s provides the ideal venue for corporate Christmas parties and festive season celebrations. Our chic venue offers the opportunity to party in style, with the entire business crowd catered to with ease.

Functions and events at George’s

George’s may feature an exciting social calendar, but throughout the year we also welcome in guests as they host their own important events or mark family festivities.

From product launches to birthday parties, weddings, anniversaries and corporate functions, our venue offers an ideal destination for every type of function, and our friendly staff are on hand to ensure each event is a memorable success.

About George’s

You can learn more about our function facilities here, or contact us directly for further advice.

Saturday fireworks return to Darling Harbour

Posted on October 31, 2018 by admin - News & Reviews

Sydney Harbour is set to celebrate every weekend, with Saturday fireworks at Darling Harbour now back due to popular demand.

At 9pm each Saturday night the fireworks will light up the sky, adding further beauty and a stunning visual display to the perennially popular harbourside destination.

The move comes as Darling Harbour enjoys a transformation, courtesy of a major redevelopment that is now nearing completion.

So, let’s explore all the news and action Darling Harbour as the historic precinct enters a new era.

Fireworks action

After an 18-month hiatus, weekly fireworks are back on the agenda, kicking off at Darling Harbour each and every Saturday night.

Set down as a regular fixture from now until mid-next year, the spectacular display commences at 9pm during daylight savings time, and 8.30pm from April 13.

Organisers note Cockle Bay is the ideal destination to enjoy the weekly festivities, with the fireworks offering the perfect accompaniment to dinner or events at one of Sydney’s most glorious waterfront locations.

The fireworks join a lengthy list of regular fixtures all adding to the excitement of the harbourside destination.

The Star of the Show Ferris Wheel is also in residence until February 29, offering a simply stunning 360 degree view of the harbour from a height of 32m.

Meanwhile, the precinct is enjoying a major revamp.

Darling Harbour renovation

Touted as the “biggest renovation in the precinct’s history”, Darling Harbour has been receiving a facelift over recent years.

Tumbalong Park was the first new fixture to open, offering an expansive parkland akin to Sydney’s very own public backyard.

The International Convention Centre received a state-of-the-art overhaul and now public access areas, walkways and open spaces have offered the precinct a new lease on life.

In the meantime, a new site for the IMAX is under construction as the Ribbon Project takes shape. Once complete, the development will offer a 25-storey hotel and serviced apartment development that will provide a modern setting for the IMAX Theatre, plus retail and entertainment spaces.

The entire Darling Harbour precinct is also becoming more connected with the city, courtesy of the Darling Square project which features one of the city’s largest public squares with a wide pedestrian corridor that connects Central Station to Darling Harbour’s waterfront.

A front row seat at George’s

Darling Harbour might be changing, but popular offerings such as George’s Mediterranean Bar and Grill remain a constant, providing Darling Harbour diners with a premier eatery overlooking all the action.

Whether it’s dinner, drinks and Saturday night fireworks, an after-work beverage at our weekday happy hour, or a weekend brunch with the family overlooking the water, our restaurant offers a front row seat to enjoy all the Darling Harbour action.

About George’s

You can learn more about our function facilities here, or contact us directly for further advice.

Melbourne Cup 2018 at George’s Sydney

Posted on October 15, 2018 by admin - News & Reviews

For more than 150 years the Melbourne Cup has been the pinnacle of the Australian horse racing calendar, seeing the nation come to a standstill for a 3200m horse race that lasts a little over three minutes.

This year will be no exception, with the Melbourne Cup promising to be an event celebrated across the nation in cities and rural outposts alike.

At George’s Mediterranean Bay and Grill, we proudly mark the Melbourne Cup tradition at our Darling Harbour restaurant each and every year.

As we order in the champagne, seek out the finest fascinators and carefully curate our canapes, here’s an insight into the history of the Melbourne Cup and how we’ll be honouring the race that stops the nation in true Sydney-style this year.

From little things, big thing grow

It was 1861 when Flemington racecourse set the stage for a horse race that would become one of the most anticipated social events on the nation’s annual calendar.

At the time a Victorian Turf Club member put forward the idea of a spring racing event he chose to call the Melbourne Cup.

That first year would see 17 horses take to the track battling it out for the modest sum of 710 gold sovereigns and a hand-beaten gold watch.

It was anything but an uneventful first race. One horse bolted at the start and three of the 17 starters fell during the event.

This played out before a modest crowd of just 4000, with news five days earlier of the death of explorers Burke and Wills likely diminishing the expected turnout for the event.

By 1865 the gold watch had been replaced by a trophy and the winning sum steadily grew, with the prize pool for the 2018 Cup weighing in at a much more handsome sum of $7.3 million.

Last year the event attracted a crowd of over 90,000 with a further 1.8 million people viewing it live.

Quick Melbourne Cup facts

The Melbourne Cup runs at 3pm Australian eastern standard time on the first Tuesday in November
The record winning time for running the Cup is 3 minutes 16.30 seconds by Kingston Rule in 1993
The inaugural winner Archer (1861) has the slowest winning time with 3 minutes 52 seconds
The smallest Melbourne Cup field was 7 starters in 1963
The largest Melbourne Cup field was 39 starters in 1890
More winning jockeys have worn black as their main colour than any other colour
The highest Melbourne Cup Day attendance to date was 122,736 in 2003
The most Melbourne Cup wins by a jockey is four, and the accomplishment is shared by Bobbie Lewis in the early 1900s and Harry White in the 1970s
The horse to win the Melbourne Cup the most times is Makybe Diva (2003, 2004, 2005)
Fashions on the field was first held in 1962

How George’s celebrates the Melbourne Cup

This year, George’s Mediterranean Bar and Grill will be hosting an exclusive canape cocktail party to celebrate the Melbourne Cup, offering a Sydney harbourside backdrop and fine fare to mark the occasion.

Featuring prizes for the best dressed, sweepstakes, big screens, a photo booth and DJ entertainment, the event will offer the glamour few the chance to enjoy an exciting day of race atmosphere.

The $99 per person ticket price includes fine fare offered courtesy of grazing tables, seafood stations, canapes and desserts, along with champagne served on arrival and wine and beer served throughout the day.

Doors open at 12.30pm with more information available here and tickets available online.

About George’s

You can learn more about our function facilities here, or contact us directly for further advice.

Father’s Day, Sydney style

Posted on August 15, 2018 by admin - News & Reviews, Uncategorized

Sunday, September 3 is the chance to celebrate dads around the nation courtesy of Father’s Day. Coinciding with the first weekend of spring, it’s the perfect opportunity to enjoy all the fun, excitement and vibrancy on offer as the city of Sydney awakens from the chill of winter.

With that in mind, here’s an insight into the fascinating history of Father’s Day and our top tips for marking Father’s Day in Sydney style…

A little history

Father’s Day dates back to the Middle Ages, when the Catholic Church in Europe began noting the important influence of fathers in society as part of St Joseph’s Day on March 19. As a quick refresher, St Joseph is recognised as husband of the Virgin Mary and legal father of Jesus Christ.

After a few false starts elsewhere, the Father’s Day trend finally spread in the 20th century with dads being rightfully recognised around the world.

The date that nations choose to celebrate Father’s Day varies, but in Australia it always falls on the first Sunday in September.

Father’s Day in Greece

In Greece, like many other European nations, Father’s Day is known as the Fête des Peres or Feast of Fathers. The event is marked on the third Sunday in June.

A tough road to recognition

You’d think that celebrating dads would have been a fairly obvious event to mark on the international calendar, but by all accounts it took a long time for the occasion to catch on.

In fact, the Father’s Day most nations now celebrate involved a 64-year road to fruition that was largely centred around the US, and it had its genesis in tragedy.

In December 1907, there was a major mining disaster in Monongah, West Virginia when 361 men were killed including 250 fathers. It left around 1000 children without their dads.

The following year one of those children suggested to her local pastor they should honour the fathers who were lost. Honour them they did, but the event was not well promoted and it wasn’t until 1911 that the concept was raised again.

This time Father’s Day was proposed in Chicago as a citywide celebration, but was ultimately turned down. 1912 saw another attempt as part of a Father’s Day church celebration in Vancouver Washington, and then the Lions Club took on the cause in 1915, making an appeal to have it recognised as a national holiday.

In 1916, President Woodrow Wilson spoke at a Father’s Day celebration and sought to make it an officially recognised federal holiday. US Congress apparently resisted, fearing that it would become commercialised.

The push continued over the years but it wasn’t until 50 years later that President Lyndon B. Johnson issued the first presidential proclamation honouring fathers, designating the third Sunday in June as Father’s Day

In 1972 the day was finally made a permanent national holiday when President Richard Nixon signed it into law.

Father’s Day in Australia

The ABC notes one of the first mentions of Father’s Day in Australia was seen in the Newcastle Sun on September 4, 1936.

“The article promoted a Father’s Day meeting at the Baptist Tabernacle, with reference to hopes the day would become as popular as Mother’s Day.

“The idea had also surfaced a week earlier on August 29, 1936 in The Daily News Perth, with an advertorial suggesting gifts to be given on the day.

“But an article in the Western Herald in 1964 said the day was first celebrated in 1935.

“The same article explained the day was officially designated as the first Sunday in September through the Commonwealth in 1964.

“No reason was officially given for the choice of date, but it is a widely held belief that the month was chosen for commercial benefit.”

Father’s Day fun facts

According to Hallmark, Father’s Day is the fourth-largest card-sending occasion with 72 million cards given every year.

They also note 50 per cent of all Father’s Day cards are purchased for fathers. Almost 20 percent of Father’s Day cards are given to husbands.

Other categories include grandfathers, sons, brothers, uncles and someone special.

Humorous cards account for about 25 percent of Father’s Day sales, and Hallmark has been producing Father’s Day cards since the early 1920s.

Meanwhile, it’s believed a Babylonian youth named Elmesu carved the first known Father’s Day card in clay nearly 4000 years ago. His special message wished his father good health and a long life.

Experiences better than gifts

Socks, jocks, cards and mugs may be a welcome token of appreciation for dad, but according to Science Daily, experiences are better than material items.

They note: “experiential gifts are more effective than material gifts at improving relationships from the recipient’s perspective”.

“The reason experiential gifts are more socially connecting is that they tend to be more emotionally evocative,” the report’s authors say.

“An experiential gift elicits a strong emotional response when a recipient consumes it — like the fear and awe of a safari adventure, the excitement of a rock concert or the calmness of a spa — and is more intensely emotional than a material possession.

“Often the focus is only on whether someone likes a gift rather than focusing on a fundamental objective of gift giving, and that is fostering relationships between giver and recipient.”

Our top tips for this Father’s Day

With the ultimate experience in mind, our top tips for gifts this year are firmly focussed on spending quality time with dad. There are a host of great venues at Darling Harbour to help you enjoy just that.

Here’s just a few…

SEA LIFE Aquarium

SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium is spoiling all super dads this Father’s Day weekend with a special Dads Go Free entry offer.

The venue is offering a magical underwater adventure for the whole family, with dad’s ticket on the house.

They note dad is entitled to one free entry to SEA LIFE Sydney when accompanied by a full paying customer (adult or child). The offer is valid from August 31 to September 2, 2018.

More information: darlingharbour.com

Madame Tussauds

Unleash dad’s inner super hero with an unmissable experience at Madame Tussauds as the acclaimed venue rolls out all the best and brightest super heroes.

In an experience that’s set to delight the young and the young at heart, Madam Tussaud’s will be serving up some serious justice.

This action-packed experience sees all the Justice League heroes in attendance, with a host of interactive activities to put visitors through their paces.

The interactive exhibition runs until December 31, but Father’s Day could be the perfect time to embrace a little action and adventure with dad.

More information: madametussauds.com.au

The National Maritime Museum

The Australian National Maritime Museum consistently offers up a wealth of events destined to delight the whole family. And if dad has a nautical nature, it’s a great place to celebrate his special day.

Feature events running across Father’s Day include James Cameron’s Challenging the Deep, Action Stations, the 53rd Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition, and the Box That Changed the World.

More information: anmm.gov.au

What we’re doing at George’s

Amidst a day spent enjoying a wealth of Darling Harbour fun and adventure with dad, seize the opportunity to step into spring and enjoy a special Father’s Day lunch at George’s Mediterranean to mark the occasion.

This year we’re going all out for dad to celebrate. In addition to our regular a la carte menu, we will be featuring a Spit Roast Lamb Banquet.

Hmm, now that’s got the tastebuds abuzz, here’s what’s included:

Spit roast lamb
Lemon oregano potatoes
Greek salad
Tzatiki & pita bread
A Volkan Blonde beer for Dad

Set against the sparkling backdrop of a spring Sydney day overlooking Darling Harbour this is destined to be a popular event, and there will be limited availability.

You can make a booking and learn more about our special Father’s Day lunch here.

Getting to Darling Harbour

Any memorable experience is as much about the journey as it is the destination, so why not enjoy a little sightseeing along the way.

Darling Harbour can be accessed by light rail, train, bus or a stroll from the CBD. Or take in some sensational spring time water views courtesy of a water taxi or the ferry.

About George’s

You can learn more about our function facilities here, or contact us directly for further advice.

Eight unmissable Darling Harbour events

Posted on July 31, 2018 by admin - News & Reviews

Long renowned as a tourism precinct that serves up a smorgasbord of events, Darling Harbour is set to feature a jam-packed line-up of exciting entertainment over the coming months.

It’s an ever-changing array of activities that is set to delight the kids and adults alike. From music icons to maritime adventure, here’s eight unmissable Darling Harbour events.

Bob Dylan takes centre stage

As the creator of some of the past century’s most iconic songs, Bob Dylan has been hailed as a poet and music legend alike.

On August 18 he graces the Sydney International Convention Centre for one night only, performing a songbook that spans six decades. From seminal classic like ‘Blowin’ in the Wind’ to ‘Like a Rolling Stone’, ‘Tangled Up in Blue’ and ‘Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door’, Bob Dylan has a repertoire that includes some of the most socially, politically and culturally important songs in modern music.

When: 8pm, Saturday, August 18
Where: International Convention Centre Sydney Theatre
More information: iccsydney.com.au.

Justice League

In an experience that’s set to delight the young and the young at heart, Madam Tussaud’s will be serving up some serious justice until December 31.

This action-packed experience sees all the Justice League heroes in attendance, with a host of interactive activities to put visitors through their paces.

Come face-to-face with your favourite Justice League heroes in an action-packed adventure unlike any other.

Star alongside Justice League’s Gal Gadot as Wonder Woman, Henry Cavill as Superman, Ben Affleck as Batman, and Ezra Miller as The Flash as they fight to save the world from Lex Luthor’s evil corporation, LexCorp.

Elsewhere in the city, Lex’s experiment wreaks havoc, sending a helicopter and its occupants hurtling toward the ground. You’ll have to summon all your strength and join the Super Heroes as they fight to save the world:

Help Superman lift a REAL helicopter back into the sky as onlookers cheer from the streets below.

Summon Batman with the Bat-Signal. Billowing smoke and wind reveal Batman as he’s called into battle onto the rooftop, ready to save the world.

Harness your inner Super Hero alongside Wonder Woman. One successful gauntlet blast can destroy LexCorp’s technology that has created havoc in the city.

Help The Flash by running alongside him! Once you hit ‘top speed’, effects around The Flash’s environment, including projection lighting on his suit, jump to life and electricity cracks.

When: Now until December 31
Where: Madame Tussauds Darling Harbour
More information: madametussauds.com.au

Star of the Show Ferris Wheel

Take your Darling Harbour adventure to all new heights, courtesy of the Star of the Show Ferris Wheel that has extended its stay and will now be in residence until February 2019.

Located in the Harbourside Amphitheatre, the Ferris Wheel showcases simply spectacular 360-degree views of Darling Harbour, the waterfront and Sydney.

At over 32-metres in height, the Star of the Show Ferris Wheel claims the title of the highest continuously travelling Ferris Wheel in Australia, and is open day and night.

When: Now until February 2019
Monday to Thursday: 10am – 11pm
Friday to Sunday: 10am – 11.59pm
Where: Harbourside Amphitheatre
More information: darlingharbour.com

The box that changed the world

From now until October 25, the National Maritime Museum is exploring the influence and impact of the humble shipping container with an open-air exhibition entitled The Box that Changed the World.

This bright and colourful display sees containers scattered like Lego boxes in the museum’s first outdoor installation and looks into how container shipping has shaped our modern world, changing how we live, work, eat, produce and shop.

Seen and recognised worldwide, it’s easy to take the shipping container for granted. But some say this unassuming box has done more for global trade than all of the international trade agreements signed over the last 50 years together.

When: Now until October 25
Where: Outside the Australian National Maritime Museum
More information: anmm.gov.au

53rd Wildlife Photographer of the Year

Featuring over 100 spectacular images of nature in her infinite glory, the 53rd Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition showcases the truly awe-inspiring work of the world’s best wildlife photographers.

On loan from the Natural History Museum of London, the display celebrates the diversity of the natural world and features inspiring stories of conservation, surprising animal behaviour and hidden underwater worlds.

Winning images were selected for their creativity, originality and technical excellence. The competition first launched in 1965 when it attracted 361 entries. Today the competition receives almost 50,000 entries from 92 countries, highlighting its enduring appeal.

Marvel at playful seals, be mesmerised by a cunning arctic fox and embrace the wonder of nature. Discover 100 extraordinary, award-winning images from one of the world’s most prestigious photography events.

When: Now until October 11
Where: The Australian National Maritime Museum
More information: anmm.gov.au

James Cameron – Challenging the Deep

Direct from the man who brought us Titanic is a new exhibition from James Cameron that showcases his history-making deep-sea expeditions.

Destined to delight underwater enthusiasts, the exhibition traces Cameron’s lifelong pursuit of and achievements in deep ocean science, technology and exploration including his record-breaking dives in Deepsea Challenger, the submersible vessel he designed that was built in Sydney.

Visitors will experience how Cameron’s drive and passion for understanding and exploring our oceans has shone a light on the spectacular phenomena and mysteries of the least known place on earth and enabled maritime archaeologists to document and understand the shipwrecks of RMS Titanic and the German battleship Bismarck.

The exhibition immerses visitors into an underwater environment using cinema scale projections, artefacts and specimens from his expeditions; displays of artefacts from the design and construction of the Deepsea Challenger; underwater recording, lighting, communication and diving technologies pioneered by Cameron; and props and costume from the feature films The Abyss and Titanic made possible by his drive to understand and expertise in meeting the challenges of the deep.

Where: Australian National Maritime Museum
When: Daily until January 30 (excluding Christmas Day)
More information: anmm.gov.au

Action Stations

Action Stations offers a new and exciting way to experience the compelling history of the Royal Australian Navy (RAN).

Action Stations reinterprets and enlivens the Australian National Maritime Museum’s much-loved ex-RAN vessels- HMAS Vampire, HMAS Onslow, and HMAS Advance. Featuring a dramatic immersive cinematic experience, a new discovery and exploration space and audio-visual encounters that recall sailors’ memories on board the vessels, Action Stations will give visitors new insight into the inner workings of navy life at sea.

New projections, soundscapes, lighting and music will awaken you to the very real dangers faced by a naval crew.

Where: Waterfront Pavilion Australian National Maritime Museum
When: Daily
More information: anmm.gov.au

Lebanon Carnival

On October 7, Tumbalong Park in Darling Harbour will play host to a celebration of Lebanese culture with the annual Lebanon Carnival.

This year the event marks its 40th year and features a host of incredible performers showcasing the cultural history and modern day influences on traditional Lebanese culture.

Where: Tumbalong Park
When: Sunday October 7, 2018 from 11am to 5pm
More information: darlingharbour.com

About Darling Harbour

Since Australia’s Bicentennial in 1988, Darling Harbour has boasted an ever-increasing range of tourism icons, weekend events and ongoing activities. As one of Sydney’s cultural melting pots, it showcases the history and vibrancy of this exciting city.

In addition to a host of permanent attractions, Darling Harbour also features an ever-changing line-up of events and exhibitions, making this a destination that can be enjoyed time and again.

Permanent attractions include:

Sea Life Sydney Aquarium – Sea Life Sydney Aquarium is one of the city’s biggest and brightest attractions. You can walk through large glass tunnels as sharks swim lazily by (and overhead!) and marvel at the vast array of rays and tropical fish.

Wild Life Sydney Zoo – Tucked into a corner of Darling Harbour, this zoo is deceptively big. The space is divided into natural Australian habitats, such as the tropics, desert and rainforest. Here you can meet and greet koalas, and see wallabies, kangaroos, wombats, lizards, snakes and Rex, the resident crocodile.

Madame Tussauds – Like its international counterparts, this iconic attraction is home to a range of lifelike wax statues, with local favourites such as Hugh Jackman and Nicole Kidman among the famous faces.

Chinese Garden of Friendship – The perfect place to truly relax, the Chinese Garden consists of a series of meandering paths and arched bridges crossing serene ponds filled with golden fish. You can rest in a number of small pavilions by the water’s edge, or enjoy a tea in the traditional Chinese teahouse.

Harbourside – Harbourside is a multi-level shopping centre where you can find great bargains amongst designer clothing, shoes, arts, crafts and homewares.

Australian National Maritime Museum – One of our favourite museums, this is a great option for families or anyone with an interest in history. There are plenty of large exhibition spaces to explore, then step outside to discover a variety of moored vessels including vintage yachts, a submarine, a warship, and beautifully restored tall ships from the 18th Century.

About George’s

You can learn more about our function facilities here, or contact us directly for further advice.

The ultimate guide to functions in Sydney

Posted on July 15, 2018 by admin - functions, News & Reviews

Whether it’s a wedding, a corporate event or a family celebration, planning any function takes research and preparation. It also requires the event organiser and the venue to work closely together in a bid to ensure any function meets the expectations and needs of the guests attending.

As a premier Sydney eatery, George’s Mediterranean Bar and Grill hosts hundreds of functions at our Darling Harbour venue each year, so here’s our ultimate guide to hosting a function in Sydney.

The purpose

A wedding will be a vastly different function to a corporate Christmas party or product launch, but often the planning that goes on behind the scenes is remarkably similar.

The organiser will need to know key details like budget, numbers and entertainment requirements. There will need to be invites sent and RSVPs received. Menus will need to be considered as will any special guest needs.

So, let’s dive a little deeper into the factors you should take into account with each…

Corporate functions

Corporate events can be formal or informal, festive and grand, intimate or casual. It just depends on the size and type of event your business is hosting.

From business luncheons, to industry roundtables, product launches and office Christmas parties, corporate functions offer the opportunity to bring the work team together or conduct business in a setting far from the office.

Here are just a couple of the corporate functions we cater to and encounter regularly…

Working lunch

Ranging in size from small groups to full venue hire, the working lunch is the opportunity to conduct business over a meal, and in a setting removed from the office environment.

Working lunches are often used to undertake training, host a networking event, offer an industry update or simply bring people together or celebrate a working achievement.

The evening soiree

Often used for social style events with that extra touch of glamour, the corporate evening soiree is a great chance to launch products, celebrate major corporate milestones or network without the pressure of heading back to the office.

The work celebration

Perhaps the most famous work celebration is the annual office Christmas party, but Melbourne Cup, retirement celebrations and even major corporate milestones all offer the chance for colleagues to celebrate at a venue removed from the work environment.

What you need to consider

Seated or stand-up?

Is this a social style corporate event where attendees should mingle and chat, or is it an event where they should be seated to take in information?

This is an important consideration because it affects the venue set-up and also the menu. And in some cases, you can have a bit of both, where people mingle and chat over light canapes and are then seated for the formalities of the day.

Indoors or al fresco?

The type of event you are looking to host will also impact the style of venue you select. Product launches might be suited to an al fresco, casual setting where people can mingle over drinks and finer food, but a seminar or industry event involving multiple speakers might be best hosted in a more private indoor setting.

Entertainment and speakers?

If there is to be entertainment, speakers or presentations, audiovisual equipment will be required. You need to discuss this with your venue in advance and ensure the required equipment is compatible with software or computers you intend to use.

Table configuration and seating?

The organiser of any function needs to consider how they would like the space set up, particularly if they have opted for the exclusive hire of an entire area. A seminar might see tables shifted into a horseshoe shape, while a Christmas party might involve name cards and allocated seating.

When planning this, consider the aim of the function and whether there are corporate protocols that should be applied.

Meanwhile, if there are speakers, those who need to talk should be positioned at tables close to the AV equipment, and tables should be arranged so everyone can see.

Alcohol or not?

Depending on the type of event, alcohol may or may not be included. A seminar or daytime industry event is more likely to just feature tea and coffee, while an evening event implies that alcohol will be offered.

What’s included?

When sending out invitations to any corporate event, organisers should be very clear about what is included and what is not.

Are partners invited?
Will attendees be required to foot their own bill, or is the event to be paid for by the business?
If the business is footing the bill, is it an open bar or just wine and beer until a set time?
Is there a set timeframe and estimated end time?
What is the dress code for evening soirees or celebrations?
For events like the Melbourne Cup, attendees might be required to pay their share in advance. Give them a clear indication this is the case and set a date for payment.

Weddings

With our spectacular views over the waters of Darling Harbour, George’s Mediterranean Bar and Grill has enjoyed hosting many weddings over the years – some traditional, some casual, some just truly romantic events.

Here’s a quick rundown on what you need to consider when hosting a wedding function.

Day or evening?

We’ve catered to weddings on weekdays and weekends, during the day and during the evening, and really the decision comes down to what suits the happy couple and the type of event they intend to enjoy.

It also comes down to the budget and the number of people they intend to invite, or the availability of the venue.

Distance from the ceremony?

Sydney’s a very big city, so when seeking out a reception venue, the couple should carefully consider the practicalities of the distance between the ceremony and wedding venues.

Ideally wedding guests will be able to walk from one venue to another or make a quick commute while the newly married couple have their photographs taken.

This interval in proceedings is the perfect opportunity for guests to mingle and enjoy light drinks and canapes as they await the arrival of the happy couple.

Formal or casual?

Long gone are the days where every wedding was a three-course affair. Weddings can range from cocktail style events to full set menus and formal seating.

The choice is the bride and groom’s to make and depends on the type of day they wish to enjoy.

Venue exclusive?

If you’re looking for a truly private event where you have the run of a venue, then booking the entire restaurant for a wedding is ideal. This allows guests to mingle in the varied areas, enjoying lounges for casual drinks and chats, while making use of the seated plan for speeches and formalities.

At George’s you can opt to book the lounge and bar area where you can enjoy a more casual atmosphere and waterfront views, the dining area, which is intimate and private, or the entire venue.

Decorations?

From the flowers to table decorations and themes, chances are you want your wedding to reflect your personality and style. If you’re planning on decorating to suit your wedding, talk to the venue about your wishes. Not only will they be happy to assist, they might also have some great suggestions for suppliers like florists and entertainers they have worked with in the past.

Entertainment and dance floor?

The likelihood is there will be at least a couple of speeches or maybe even live entertainment and dancing at your wedding. At George’s we have the option of incorporating a dedicated dance floor into our floor plan for events, and we also have audio visual equipment available including microphone’s and an area for bands.

Celebrations

From hen’s nights to Mother’s Day and 21st birthday parties, we’ve been privileged to share in a wealth of celebrations during our many years in the industry.

We can accommodate every type of function, from intimate family dinners of up to 44 in the dining room, to large groups for birthday parties and up to 350 people for full scale cocktail events.

General things to consider

Book early

Venues can be booked out months in advance, so talk to us early about your event plans including a rough idea of the style of event you intend to host, and the number of people likely to attend.

The numbers

The number of people invited will impact the floor plan and whether a seated or cocktail style event is suitable. Numbers and menus will also need to be confirmed in advance to assist the kitchen in catering large scale events.

The budget

Your budget is a key consideration. At George’s we can tailor cost-effective food and beverage packages, theme our Sydney function rooms and host live bands to ensure your event is a success.

The menu

From light canapes to buffets, banquets and to full dining packages and alternate drop menus, George’s has a variety of menu options to suit any budget and style of event. You can see our function menu here or talk to our friendly staff for an option to suit your needs.

We can also accommodate special dietary requirements. Please advise our staff in advance so we can assist.

The drinks

George’s has a range of beverage packages available for functions, with options including beer and wine packages on a per person basis to premium pre-selected wines served as required. You can see our beverage packages here.

Seating plans

George’s can accommodate up to 350 people in a variety of function configurations.

The Grove Lounge & Bar
Cocktail style event – 120 people
Lounge seating event – 80 guests
The dining area
Seated Indoor & Outdoor Dining Area – 120 guests
Semi-Private Indoor Dining Area – 44 guests
Venue exclusive
Cocktail Style Event – 350 guests
Dinner Style Event – 180 guests

Key takeaways

Book early
Work with the venue
Let us know the budget
Advise of numbers
Advise of any dietary requirements
See our function menus here
View our seating and floor plans here

About George’s

You can learn more about our function facilities here, or contact us directly for further advice.

Vivid Sydney to light up Darling Harbour

Posted on April 30, 2018 by admin - News & Reviews

Sydney is set to light up in sensational style as the Vivid Sydney festival kicks off for three amazing weeks of sight, sound and ideas from May 25 to June 16.

Spread across some of the most iconic destinations around the city, Vivid Sydney is a light show unlike any other where the city’s most famous sights are the canvas for simply breathtaking works of lighting art.

Here’s an insight into Vivid Sydney and the best vantage points to enjoy the spectacle.

What is Vivid Sydney?

This year marks the 10th anniversary of Vivid Sydney, and it’s a milestone that will be enjoyed with truly breathtaking displays.

First hosted in 2009 at the Sydney Opera House, the event has grown to include harbourside regions like the Rocks, Darling Harbour, Luna Park, Barangaroo, Taronga Zoo, the Royal Botanic Garden and beyond.

The three-week festival is the major event on Sydney’s winter calendar and is recognised as the largest event of its kind in the world combining light, music and ideas.

“Vivid Sydney is where art, technology and commerce intersect,” Vivid Sydney explains.

“The program features large scale light installations and projections (Vivid Light); music performances and collaborations (Vivid Music including Vivid LIVE at the Sydney Opera House); and creative ideas, discussion and debate (Vivid Ideas). All three celebrate Sydney as a creative hub of the Asia-Pacific.”

Last year the 23-day event attracted over 2.3 million people.

Where to experience Vivid Sydney

Vivid Sydney takes place throughout Sydney Harbour and also extends beyond. The centrepiece of the event will be the sails of the Sydney Opera House which this year will transform into a dynamic digital sculpture inspired by the Australian environment.

Meanwhile, The Rocks, Luna Park, Darling Harbour, Chatswood, Carriageworks, Barangaroo, Kings Cross and for the second year, Taronga Zoo and the The Royal Botanic Garden are also part of this year’s program allowing attendees to truly explore the city by night.

Vivid Sydney notes these areas offer the best vantage points along with Bradfield Park (under the Harbour Bridge at North Sydney), Lavender Bay, or on the harbour itself. The lights come on each night at 6pm and turn off at 11pm, come rain, hail or shine.

Vivid at Darling Harbour

Darling Harbour has been part of the Vivid festival for years, offering attendees the opportunity to enjoy this popular, picturesque and historical destination against a backdrop of interactive lighting.

This year’s theme will be Fantastic Oceans, with Cockle Bay the canvas where an epic tale of the underwater world is told.

Vivid Sydney says: “Water features come to life as jelly fish in a fantastic display of colour; special fountains emulate corals and deep-sea flora; lasers ripple like waves of the ocean or etch the silhouette of creatures from the deep. Moving-head lighting technologies emit bright beams of light skyward — like glistening shards of sunlight piercing the surface of this fantastic underwater world. For visitors, a walk through Darling Harbour becomes a dream-like dive into the ocean depths.”

About George’s

You can learn more about our function facilities here, or contact us directly for further advice.

Darling Harbour to host Classic and Wooden Boat Festival

Posted on March 30, 2018 by admin - News & Reviews

The beauty and diversity of Australia’s nautical history is set to be showcased from April 13-15 when Darling Harbour plays host to the Classic and Wooden Boat Festival.

Run by the Australian National Maritime Museum, the three-day event will feature over 150 vessels on display at Cockle Bay along with boat building workshops, live entertainment, and cruises on some of the heritage vessels.

At George’s Mediterranean Bar and Grill we share a passion for a nautical history that has helped to shape Australia. Here’s an insight into what’s on offer during the event.

The Classic and Wooden Boat Festival

The Classic and Wooden Boat Festival sees some of Australia’s most outstanding heritage vessels on display at Cockle Bay Marina. From Halvorsens, yachts and skiffs, to classic speedboats, steam launches, tug boats, whalers and Navy workboats, vessels come from all around Australia.

A centrepiece of the event will be the tall ship James Craig and Edwardian superstars SY Ena and Hurrica V.

The festival celebrates Australia’s diverse nautical history, giving visitors the opportunity to see the intricate handiwork and craftsmanship of each vessel, climb aboard some of the boats and ships on display and then learn about the history and work that goes into each.

A family-friendly affair

The Classic and Wooden Boat Festival is a family-friendly affair, with live entertainment and interactive workshops.

For the more intrepid boating enthusiast there are four-hour boat building challenges where a team of four to six people have to design, build and race their own seaworthy craft…in just four hours.

Visitors can also try their hand at traditional skills like caulking, line throwing and sculling, as they “muck in” and learn the ancient maritime arts.

Meanwhile, Children can get in on the action at the Boatshed where they can build and race their own boats, or enjoy magic shows, and a jumping castle.

A shared nautical history

At George’s Mediterranean Bar and Grill, we’re excited to see the return of the Classic and Wooden Boat Festival as a vivid nautical history is among the attributes that the nations of Australia and Greece share.

Like Australia, Greece’s exploration and trade has historically been based on the sea, and it’s a nation whose nautical tradition goes back to antiquity.

Come join us

After a day spent sculling, caulking, boat building and marveling at the wonders of Australia’s maritime diversity, come join us for lunch or dinner at George’s Mediterranean Bar and Grill. You can further embrace your love of the sea with fresh-caught seafood, or relax while taking in all the action at Darling Harbour over a shared meal of mezze.

Our venue is positioned across from the Australian National Maritime Museum.

About George’s

You can learn more about our function facilities here, or contact us directly for further advice.