The Rocks

Which pub in the Rocks is the oldest? It's plagued with controversy. Wonder off the beaten path- delve into the history of the Rocks- the site of Australia's first European settlement. We'll explore our indigenous history- share with you the stories of murders- mysteries and convict history as we explore the laneways- pubs- and historical buildings.

The First Nations of Australia were just that - firsts. The first explorers- the first farmers- the first caretakers of this nation. NAIDOC Week 2020- 'Always Was- Always Will Be'- honours the world's oldest continuous culture and The Rocks is celebrating with a cavalcade of events- indigenous art exhibitions- markets and cuisine from 8 to the 15 of November.

Lose yourself in the work of influential Australian Chinese artist Lindy Lee. Slow down and take in shimmering- meditative and thought-provoking works in her largest survey exhibition to date- which draws on her experience of living between two cultures.Using a spectacular array of processes which include flinging molten bronze- burning paper and allowing the rain to transform surfaces- Lee draws on her Australian and Chinese heritage to develop works that engage with the history of art- cultural authenticity- personal identity and the cosmos. Key influences are the philosophies of Daoism and Ch'an (Zen) Buddhism- which explore the connections between humanity and nature.Curated by MCA Director- Elizabeth Ann Macgregor OBE- this exhibition will introduce audiences to over 70 works from across the artist's extensive career- from early photocopy artworks and wax paintings to recent large-scale installations and sculptures.CuratorElizabeth Ann Macgregor OBEAssociate CuratorMegan Robson

The original Rocks walking tours gets up close and personal with the living history and British heritage of The Rocks.Wander through hidden alleys and laneways and hear stories about the many characters and rogues that called The Rocks home. We don't regard what we do as a job and there is no job more enjoyable than ours as tour guides.We get to walk around and talk about this amazing historical precinct- that sits within one of the most beautiful cities in the world- sharing its rich and diverse history and bringing the area to life for the guests that willingly share a fraction of their time with us. How lucky are we!

Anywhere but here: MCA Primavera Acquisitions responds to the global upheaval of the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. Recognising that pre-existing issues have been aggravated by the current crisis- it considers ideas of labour and domesticity- wellbeing and community- place and urbanism.The exhibition draws from the MCA's collection of works by artists who have participated in Primavera- the MCA's annual exhibition of young Australian artists aged 35 and under. While these works were created prior to the pandemic- it provides a lens for approaching them in new terms. Emma White questions capitalist demands on productivity- while Keg de Souza highlights housing instability and the importance of public space. Hiromi Tango invites us to experience the therapeutic benefits of movement and self-expression- and Dion Beasley draws us back to the local- encouraging us to deepen our social connections. The selected works highlight longstanding strains on society that need to be addressed.Anywhere but here borrows its title from a work by Matthew Griffin. As a throwaway statement- it's something any one of us might mutter under our breath in the present moment. Restlessness is one of many responses we could land on- as our emotions fluctuate along with the news cycle.While considering the immediate impacts of the pandemic on contemporary society- Anywhere but here meditates on the potential for lasting structural change.CuratorsStephanie Berlangieri and Lucy LatellaArtistsSuzannah BartaDion BeasleyShaun GladwellMatthew GriffinFelicia KanPaul KnightMoya McKennaJess MacNeilTV MooreNellKeg de SouzaHiromi TangoEmma White

Venture back to historic Sydney. A time when prisoners roamed- public executions were commonplace and the Rocks Push ruled the street.Discover slums overrun with mass burial pits- sly grog haunts- opium dens and ghosts searching for their loved ones and revenge on those who crossed them.Terrain: Leisurely 2km of walking.Paranormal activity: Moderate.Covid safe activity: guests are asked to bring along their own face mask and maintain social distancing at all times.

With an abundance of diverse artisan stallholders- The Rocks Markets welcomes back Sydneysiders every Saturday and Sunday.Enjoy a variety of beautifully handcrafted goods- delicious bites and treats as well as street games and live entertainment.Join us for a Yoga session by the harbour- or lunch in the park with a picnic from our yummy food stalls. Here's our must-do list of things to see- taste and try whilst in The Rocks Markets.

Be ready to laugh- shimmy and play! Bring the entire family along and participate in this inclusive and collaborative experience. Our artist-educator will guide your family through the exhibition Lindy Lee: Moon in a Dew Drop- stopping at a few key artworks to have a closer look and partake in some creative learning strategies that the whole family will enjoy.To follow Covid-19 safety guidelines- each tour is limited to two families with a maximum of 5 people per family. All ages are welcome- including the young at heart! The tour will run for approximately 75 minutes.Recommended for families with children ages 6-12.Helpful hintsFirst time to the MCA? Visit our Social story: how to access the MCA.Changing facilities and accessible bathrooms are located on the Ground Floor and Level 3.Grab a snack from the kids' menu at the MCA Cafe on Level 4.Please note- we do not have a drinking fountain available onsite due to COVID-19.Excited about coming to the MCA? Try out our Activity: Map your way to the MCA.COVID-19 updateThe health and safety of visitors and staff is our main priority at the MCA. We are following government guidelines with regard to COVID-19 to ensure our visitors and staff are safe at all times and follow social distancing guidelines. Please read our visitor safety information here.Cancellation or refundsIf you or a family member are feeling unwell or have been in contact with someone that has tested positive for COVID-19 or have tested positive yourself- please get in touch with us to reschedule your tour or arrange a refund.*Concession: Tertiary-TAFE-ESL Students with photo ID- Senior's Card holders- Unemployed-Concession Card holders- NAVA card holdersLindy Lee public programs are proudly supported by our Major Partner Telstra.

Melinda O'Rourke- founder of the sustainable activewear line- MORE BODY will take you through a 45 minute full body burn- suitable for all ages and stages!Set amongst the gorgeous park grounds with views of the Harbour Bridge and the Opera House - guaranteed for the perfect Instagram shot.After you're done make a day of it at The Rocks Markets and add some retail therapy to your itinerary. Head up to the MORE BODY store in The Rocks where you will be treated to a $20 voucher to use on any products in store!First Fleet Park is located right next to the Circular Quay transport hub- so getting there is easy. If you prefer to drive- all day weekend parking is available for $10. Head over to Wilson Parking online to book.Remember to bring your own pilates mat! Bookings are essential as places are limited.The Rocks is a COVID-safe precinct and Pilates is held outdoors- providing plenty of space for physical distancing.