Location, travel and accommodation
Conference location
The ProPEL 2019 conference venue is on the UTS’ City campus. The majority of the conference will be held in the Aerial Function Centre in UTS’ Building 10 – the main entrance to Building 10 is on Jones Street, Broadway and the function centre is on level 7: you can find a campus map here.
The conference venue is very close to Central Station and a major bus stop (called Railway Square) (both a 3 to 5-minute stroll). This means it is easily accessible by buses and trains from most parts of Sydney.
Flying into Sydney
Sydney Airport is located about 8km from the Sydney CBD. If you’re catching the train between airport and the city you can purchase an OPAL transport card from the airport train station. The airport/city train is rather expensive (about $17AUD one way) – so, if there are more than 2 people travelling together, it is probably cheaper (and more convenient) to take a taxi (approx. $30-35AUD).
Transport
If you plan on using buses, trains and/or ferries while you are here you will need to get an OPAL card. You can get these (and top them up) in most convenience stores in the CBD as well as supermarkets, newsagencies and main transport hubs. Here is some information about OPAL. Don’t forget to ‘tap on’ and ‘tap off’! You can use this trip planner for information about how to get around the city as well as between your accommodation and the conference.
Accommodation
There are no ‘official’ conference hotels, however there are many accommodation options to choose from. UTS has special rates with some hotels (more information available on propeladmin@uts.edu.au). Some hotels very close (within walking distance – and the first 2 are literally across UTS) include:
The Old Clare
Four Points by Sheraton Sydney, Central Park
DD Apartments on Broadway
Mercure Sydney (Broadway)
Still within easy walking distance, but a just a little further away are:
Rendezvous Hotel Sydney Central
Adina Apartment Hotel Sydney
Novatel Sydney Central
Some other options (within walking distance) include:
Metro Aspire Hotel
Vulcan Hotel
Posh Hotel
Please note, that these are only some possibilities, and there are many more available. You might also want to look for accommodation in Newtown or Glebe (both within about 20 minutes walking distance). Hotels in the city centre, Darling Harbour and Circular Quay are (usually) accessible to UTS via public transport too.
Eating and drinking in Sydney
While Sydney may be an expensive city, there are lots of options for great food at very reasonable prices. Among our favourite places to eat around the UTS campus are Spice Alley (under $15AUD – has vegetarian options too) and a range of eateries on King Street Newtown, nearby Glebe, of course China Town – as well as loads of other options. You will not have difficulties finding a place to enjoy a drink after a long conference day and, if you’re just thirsty, Sydney’s water is safe to drink directly from the tap.
Sydney weather in December
The conference takes place at the very beginning of the southern hemisphere’s summer season. During summer, average temperatures can range from 18.6 through to 25.8°C (65.5 – 78.4°F) – and often hotter. You can find out more about the weather here. Remember to pack sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat.
Visiting Sydney
Here are some links to sites that can help you plan your visit.
City of Sydney Tourist Information
Sydney.com
Guide to Sydney
18 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Sydney
One thing to see in Sydney
Most people who visit Sydney for the first time (quite rightly) want to head to Circular Quay to see the Harbour Bridge and Opera House. However, there are others places to see/things to do as well. We asked each other: “If we could show you just one place/thing in Sydney, then what would it be, and why?” Here is how each of us answered.
- Ann said: “The coastal walk from Bondi to Coogee – enjoy the beautiful beaches, stop for coffee and food at each beach and admire the dolphins swimming with the surfers (if you are very lucky)”
- Nick said: “Manly – The ferry ride is spectacular. Great food options, and lovely walk around to Shelly Beach”.
- Donna said: “The Wild Life Zoo Darling Harbour – A compact zoo/ cultural experience conveniently located at Darling Harbour for those who don't have time to visit Taronga Zoo. You can get up close to some iconic Australian animals and there’s an Aquarium next door”.
- Jacqui said: “Royal Botanical Gardens – Take a stroll through our beautiful botanical gardens and end up a Lady Macquarie’s chair for a prize view of Sydney Harbour, take in the Opera House, Harbour Bridge all at once...”
- Sandris said: “Darling Harbour, especially after the dusk. Vibrant city lights, often live music and performances. You can also wander to the close-by Tumbalong Park (not your typical park) and Chinese Garden of Friendship”.
