24 HOURS IN Parramatta, Australia

Bruce Gosper, Australian High Commissioner to Singapore

» WHERE TO EAT

There are lots of eateries highlighting Australia’s multi-cultural community. Sahra By The River is a favourite; it offers fresh Lebanese food and a beautiful position on the river. Or try Butter Parramatta – you can never go wrong with fried chicken and a glass of bubbly. Feeling a little homesick? Temasek Restaurant serves authentic Malaysiansingaporean dishes like Chicken Rice, Laksa and King Prawn in Singapore Chilli Sauce.

» WHERE TO DRINK

A watering hole worth a visit is Nick & Nora’s. Located on the 26th floor of V by Crown building, you can expect a stunning view of the Blue Mountains and Harbour Bridge while sipping on tasty tipples, such as Seductive Senorita. A floral concoction of Tanqueray 10 gin, dry sherry and elderflower, garnished with Spanish olives.

» WHERE TO STAY

Travel a little further (from the main station) for great accommodation at the William Inglis Hotel. Located on Governor Macquarie Drive, the eight-level hotel celebrates William Inglis and his family’s racing and thoroughbred history. Each of its

144 guestrooms are named after a championship racehorse. The hotel’s pièce de résistance is the Chiltern Pool Deck & Bar. Called after Inglis’ Chiltern Stables in Newmarket, the deck features a luxurious 20-metre infinity pool overlooking the 300acre racecourse.

» WHAT TO DO

Watch a game of rugby league at the new Parramatta Stadium and follow the mighty Parramatta Eels (Parramatta is an Aboriginal word for “where the eels are”). Or go for the Heritage Walk and visit some of the colonial sites in Parramatta, Australia’s second oldest city.