Give A Little Bit: How To Spend A Warm And Fuzzy Weekend In Sydney Doing Good
Planning a typical weekend stay in Sydney can be tricky: so much to see, so much to do! But (as Smashmouth wisely asks) what’s wrong with taking the back streets? Instead of sticking solely to the big-ticket attractions (hi there, Opera House!), why not mix in a few experiences that support the people and places that add heart to the Emerald City? We’ve rounded up a list of people- and planet-friendly things worth supporting to help you do some good (and feel even better!) while exploring the city.
WORDS DONNAY TORR IMAGES SONG HOTEL – SAMEE LAPHAM, OTHER IMAGES VIA THE BUSINESSES FEATURED.
Bedtime story
Song Hotel Sydney (previously Y Hotel Sydney) manifests the idea of ‘a stay to feel good about’. As Australia’s first profit-for-purpose hotel, 25 cents of every dollar spent at the hotel and its eatery, Song Kitchen, supports the vital work of YWCA Australia – an organisation that’s been supporting women for over 140 years. A worthy cause! It also happens to be a pretty fantastic place to stay: Song Hotel’s just had a transformative glow-up, converting five floors of hostel accommodation and four floors of 3.5-star hotel rooms to earn an overall 4-star rating for the property. Plus, the location is super convenient, nestled on the edge of Hyde Park, within walking distance from Museum Station, a whole host of central Sydney highlights and loads of dining options in trendy Surry Hills. The recently renovated rooms are modern and comfy, the WiFi fast, and the complimentary hot breakfast deliciously comforting. If you’re looking for a home base that aligns with your values, this is it.
Paw patrol
Soft kitty, warm kitty, little ball of fur… All yours for the petting at Catmosphere Cafe, Sydney’s original cat cafe and rescue hub. We’re talking all the warm and fuzzies: book a session in the Cat Lounge to hang out with adult rescue cats, or visit the tiki-themed Treehouse to meet a group of playful youngsters. Prefer pint-sized purr machines? Head to Kittlyand! You can even catch a film in Catlix Cat Cinema (yes, really!), or a calming session of Cat Yoga. Beyond the undeniable cuteness, Catmosphere is dedicated to supporting rescue cats and kittens, partnering with rescue groups to provide a safe space for felines. Take it from someone (this writer) who’s been there: interactions are on the cats’ terms, and you’re bound to fall in love! (Hint: some cats are up for adoption!) Book ahead, because space is limited.
Trash to treasure
For an inspiring masterclass in upcycling, head to Reverse Garbage, a one-of-a-kind creative reuse centre that’s been inspiring people to rethink waste since 1975. Their workshops cover everything from DIY repair and creative reuse to sustainability-focused craft and design. Don’t forget to take a gander at the crafting supplies you can buy in their Marrickville warehouse (or online).
For sustainable souvenirs, visit The Bower Reuse and Repair Centre’s circular-economy driven Marrickville or Summer Hill stores for furniture, books, homewares, and upcycled treasures. Or check out Banish’s selection of homewares made from recycled plastic. You can even join one of the BRAD sorting sessions at Banish’s Sydney Sustainability Hub to help process hard-to-recycle plastics.
Beachy clean
Sydney’s known for its abundance of beautiful beaches and meandering coastal walks. Lovely to look at, yes – but a little trickier to look after, given how many people visit to revel in the scenery. If you’re keen to lend a hand to keep things beautiful (and save an unsuspecting marine critter from a bellyful of plastic!), join a ‘Strawkle’ event at Manly Cove on the first Sunday of every month, helping other volunteers remove plastic straws and other debris from the ocean. Also keep an eye on Surfrider Northern Beaches for info on monthly beach clean-up locations, dates and times, or search for local events on the Clean Up Australia website.
For a simple, low-key way to make a difference, bring a small bag and a pair of disposable gloves whenever you head to the beach. A quick five-minute cleanup while you stroll can have a huge impact – especially for the marine life that calls Sydney’s waters home.
Urban jungle
Sydney’s green spaces are often more than just scenic – they’re also hubs for sustainable living. At Sydney City Farm, you can take part in hands-on workshops on urban agriculture, sustainable food production, and gardening. Or, if you’re more of an observer than a doer, just enjoy a stroll through the gardens and chat to the volunteers keeping it all ticking.
Need a quiet, creative time-out? A visit to Wendy Whiteley’s Secret Garden is bound to enchant. This oasis in Lavender Bay showcases the power of ‘guerilla gardening’ to turn neglected, trash-infested public spaces into living works of art. It’s a testament to resilience – both human and botanical.
Snack impact
By now, you’re sure to be hungry – refuel at one of the many restaurants and eateries that give a fork about people and planet. Song Hotel’s Song Kitchen has built a delicious, affordable menu around sustainability and seasonality, sourcing fresh ingredients from local producers. Their wine list profiles local NSW wineries from different regions, and half the selections champion women winemakers or estate owners. And, of course, dining at Song Kitchen helps support the vital work of YWCA Australia.
Still peckish? OzHarvest’s Refettorio Sydney offers Pay It Forward dinners every Thursday. When you purchase a ticket, you’re also providing four people in need with a nourishing three-course meal served during Refettorio’s daytime hours. It’s a simple way to support food security while enjoying a thoughtfully prepared, socially conscious dining experience.
