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The Sculpture by the Sea exhibition is an important event in Sydney’s cultural calendar. It is a must see if you are here in Sydney before 15th November.

This unique event combines some of the most amazing sculptures with probably the best coastal walk in Australia. During the first two weeks of November, the Bondi to Bronte coastal walk comes alive with fascinating and often querky sculptures to delight all ages.

The competition has been running for 12 years and attracts over half a million visitors. There are 9 different prizes up for grabs and over 100 different sculptures to appreciate. All of the sculptures respond in some way to the beautiful coastal setting.

Mark McCelland’s won the prestigious $30,000 prize last year for his “She Thought” which was a large bronze sculpture with a key hole where visitors could see the ocean horizon.

If this is your first time to the exhibition, take some advice from the locals. Try to go early to beat the crowds. It gets VERY busy and it makes the experience so much better if you can linger and admire the artwork on your own rather than part of a huge crowd.

Make a day of it. Bondi, Tamarama and Bronte all have BBQ facilities. Bring your own food and enjoy the views. Alternatively there are plenty of cafes in both Bondi and Bronte for you to take a well deserved rest. Some venues put on special events to coincide with the exhibition. Many run their own Sausage Sizzle and BBQ in hidden away terraces.

Try the Bondi Icebergs RSL for some cheap fodder with amazing views. Don’t forget to bring some photo ID with you otherwise you will be refused entry no matter how old you are. For something more upmarket head to Icebergs Dining Rooms where you’ll be greeted with a sumptuous BBQ.

In Bronte the small row of cafes offers something for everyone. SWELL is a good choice for those wanting something more upmarket. Jennies is a good all rounder but particularly good for those of you who like coffee.

You’ll also be able to pick up brochures at key points along the walk, which will help explain a little more about the sculptures. Whilst you may be lucky and get free drink samples, make sure you take plenty of water with you as the walk is still strenuous in places with hills and steps. It makes it a difficult walk with young children or those of you with prams and strollers.

If you do miss this event in Sydney then why not consider going to Perth in March to see it? This one takes place on Cottesloe Beach and is almost identical to the Bondi version.

This is one part of the Sydney beach culture that you won’t want to miss. Make it an early start one day this week to really make the most of it. Avoid the weekend crowds if you can!

Jennifer Schellington has nearly half a decade of experience in traveling Australia and has recently had a baby. Her website, www.realaustraliatravel.com offers useful information for planning your trip to Australia as well as what to do and where to go.