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Northeast of Balmain, Goat Island was one of Bennelong’s (see Sydney Opera House) favourite picnic spots. In the 1830s it was used as a gunpowder magazine and convict barracks. One prisoner, Charles “Bony” Anderson, tried numerous times to escape, receiving 1,200 lashes for his troubles. He was chained to a sandstone “couch” for two years. The island later became a base for the Water Police and Fire Brigade, and in 1925 shipyards were built on its western side. In the 1990s it was the film set for the TV series Water Rats . Boasting fantastic views of Sydney Harbour, the island and its tours are both managed by the National Parks and Wildlife Service (see Sydney Harbour National Park).

Many of the city’s golf courses are private, but there are also some good public ones. Moore Park’s is a championship 18-hole, par-70 course close to the CBD. There is also a three-tiered driving range, floodlit at night and open from dawn to 10pm.

One of Sydney’s most popular and longest-established nightclubs.

Presents significant Australian artists such as Brett Whiteley (see Brett Whiteley (1939–92)).

Part of a large development on a historic site, the base of this elegant high-rise carefully slopes over several 19th-century terrace houses. The neighbouring Museum of Sydney preserves the footings of the first Government House. In Mission Impossible 2 , Tom Cruise abseiled through the roof’s steel blades.

At this men’s department store, you’ll find virtually everything from tough outback gear to city threads.

While there are many Greek businesses in Marrickville and it’s fun to browse the many shops on Marrickville Road, the best Greek restaurants are spread further out. For wonderful modern food, visit Perama. Steki Taverna is more traditional, plate-smashing included.

Vegan food has never tasted so good as at this Buddhist Chinese restaurant. Lunchtime yum cha is excellent.

A good spot for those who’d rather avoid a mainstream gay bar, this pub attracts a trendy Darlinghurst crowd. On Sundays it’s packed with those recovering from their weekends with a beer and game of pool.