What’s on for August in the North Shore

As we ease out of the worst winter had to throw at us, it’s time to get out and about again this August. Whether you’re interested in the great outdoors, art, cinema, or even trains, we’ve got something for you.

Did we miss something? Let us know and we’ll update! Just email [email protected]

The Arts

Hayden Orpheum: Studio Ghibli Retrospective

This August, Cremorne’s Hayden Orpheum Picture Palace will be hosting a retrospective event for the films of Japanese animation company Studio Ghibli. From renowned works Spirited Away and Princess Mononoke, to earlier titles like Castle in the Sky and Grave of the Fireflies, the orpheum will be screening all the best from Studio Ghibli across the months of August, September, and October. 

See the full line up here.

When: August 7th onwards 

Where: 380 Military Rd, Cremorne

Macbeth at The Concourse

Keen on more time-tested forms of entertainment? Early on this month, a production of Macbeth will be hosted at the Concourse Lounge in Chatswood. Enjoy the Shakespearean classic reimagined in a bare-bones production told through only five characters.

When: August 5, 7, 8, 9

Where: 409 Victoria Ave, Chatswood

Mosman Art Prize Exhibition

Entering its 78th year, the annual Mosman Art Prize exhibition will be opening at Mosman Art Gallery on the 22nd this month. 

When: August 22

Where: Mosman Art Gallery

New literary voices in North Sydney

Meet three emerging literary voices in North Sydney at Stanton Library this month. Hear from Margaret M. MacDonald, Rosalie Horner and Arek Sinanian at this speaking event, as they talk about their latest books, their writing journey and the challenges of navigating the publishing world.

When: August 5, 6pm – 7pm

Where: Stanton Library, North Sydney

Rochfort Gallery — Private Collection of Gandhara

Interested in history? Art? Ancient Indo-Aryan civilization? This exhibition has all of the above, displaying a large private holding of ancient Gandharan artworks dated from the first to third century AD. Gandharan civilisation was founded along the cultural exchange point of the silk road, resulting in an art style which is “instantly recognisable for its masterful blend of Greco-Roman realism, Persian detail, and Indian spirituality.”

When: August 2 

Where: 317 Pacific Highway, North Sydney

Out in Nature

Gundah Ridge Bushwalk, Mount Kuring-gai

Looking to get outside? Try this guided bushwalk in the Hornsby area along the Gundah Ridge, giving you some beautiful views of Mount Ku-ring-gai and the Bewowra Valley. The hike is reported to be one and a half hours in duration, and welcome to those new to bushwalking.

When: August 22, 10am – 11:30am

Where: Gundah Ridge Track

Nocturnal wildlife walk

If you’re looking to learn more about the local wildlife that comes out at night, Willoughby City Council will be hosting a guided spotlight walk around the Flat Rock Gully area, looking out for possums, bats, owls and more. Bring along a torch and good walking shoes.

When: 15 August, 7pm – 8:30pm

Where: Small Street, Willoughby

Keeping Our City Green and Cool

Hear from two leading researchers on urban heat and microclimates at this event hosted by the Dougherty Community Centre in Chatswood. Find out why maintaining our urban forest is so important, and how increasing development can co-exist with a healthy green canopy. A light vegetarian lunch will be provided to attendees.

When: August 21, 12:30pm – 02:00pm

Where: Small Street, Willoughby

Food and Culture

International Food And Wine Fair — St Ives High School

Come along for a bite and a sip at this international food and wine fair hosted at St Ives High School. 

Cuisines served at the fair will include Chinese, Indian, South African, American BBQ, Persian, Spanish, Jewish, Korean, Lebanese, Greek, Italian, Japanese, French and Malaysian. Entry via a gold coin donation. 

When: August 16, 4:30pm – 10pm

Where: 91 Yarrabung Road, St Ives

Coal Loader Heritage tour 

Join this guided tour of the Balls Head Coal Loader, just down from Waverton. Learn about the history of the former harbourside industrial site, and see how the site has been transformed into a centre for sustainability, site for solar energy production, park and cafe. 

When: August 16

Where: 2 Balls Head Drive, Waverton

Thornleigh Model Railway Exhibition

Held annually on the second weekend of August, the Thornleigh Model Railway Exhibition is host to various model railway scales and prototypes. According to the Hornsby council website, the exhibition is popular with all age groups. Entry is $10. 

When: August 10, 9am – 4pm

Where: Thornleigh Community Hall