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Hello Shire friends,

Can you believe we’re more than halfway through winter?

The chill is still in the air, but there’s a hint of spring on the horizon.

While the mornings are crisp and evenings cool, there’s something magical about this time of year - quiet beaches, cosy cafés and golden afternoon light.

Let’s savour what’s left of the cold days: get outside, support local and make the most of winter’s final stretch.

Here’s what’s happening around the Shire this week:

• 🌴 Canopy Fest

• 🔭 Astronomy Open Night

• 📆 11 fun events happening this week

Let’s get to it.

— Janelle Bradley

📰 Local News

Stargazing Nights

On August 1–2, the Sutherland Astronomical Society is inviting the community to explore the wonders of the night sky at Green Point Observatory in Oyster Bay.

This annual open event offers a rare chance to peer through powerful telescopes and witness celestial sights like star clusters, moon craters, and the Milky Way. Some telescopes are so large you’ll need a step ladder to use them!

There’ll be short, engaging talks about space, along with laser-guided tours pointing out constellations and deep sky objects. It’s a fun, educational experience for all ages, especially families and budding young astronomers.

Located at the corner of Green Point Road and Caravan Head Road, the event costs $15 for adults, $5 for kids, or $30 per family. No bookings are needed.

Food and drinks will be available, plus space-themed gifts and educational items for sale. Come along, look up, and rediscover the magic of the stars!

Canopy Fest

Canopy Fest lands in Kirrawee this Saturday, bringing a free, nature-filled celebration to the Sutherland Shire.

Held across Biddy Giles Park and Kirrawee Library+, the event marks National Tree Day with a day of talks, workshops, and outdoor activities dedicated to trees, native plants, and sustainable living.

Organised by Sutherland Shire Council, Canopy Fest runs from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM and offers something for all ages—whether you're keen to learn about tree care, connect with Indigenous culture, or get creative with cartoons. The event also features expert panels, a native plant stall, and the chance to meet arborists and environmental scientists.

All sessions are free, but bookings are essential. With a vibrant lineup spanning education, art, culture, and ecology, Canopy Fest is set to become a standout annual event for nature lovers and families alike.

Events are:

• Canopy Fest Walk & Talk – Guided walk through Biddy Giles Park exploring native trees, plants, and local stories.

• Bonsai Intro Talk – Discover the art and care of bonsai trees with the Illawarra Bonsai Society.

• Cartoon Workshop: “Cartoon Heroes” – A creative drawing session for kids aged 10–16 led by artist Jess Harwood.

• Aboriginal Cultural Connections Talk – Learn about First Nations perspectives on land and local bushland.

• Prune, Plant & Care Talk – Insights from arborists on how to care for trees in your home or street.

• Expert Panel: Life Happens in the Trees – Hear from artists, scientists, and tree experts on the role of urban trees.

• Native Plant Stall – Browse and learn about native plants, Bushcare programs, and gardening tips.

📆 Exciting Events On Our Radar

Mark your calendar, go have fun!

Want to plan out your month in June? Be sure to check out the full June monthly listing of events here.

🛍️ Engadine Street Festival | Engadine | 03 Aug
The Engadine Street Festival is back—bigger, better, and bursting with fun! With 200+ stalls, rides, live music, kids' entertainment, community acts, and amazing food, expect a vibrant day full of local flavour and fun for all ages.

🍷 Meet the Winemaker | Hazel, Gymea | 22 Aug | More
Another unforgettable Wine Night at Hazel. Celebrating the winery Vinteloper, based in Adelaide Hills. Enjoy a 4 course dinner with a curated selection of pairing wines.

👸 Once Upon a Time | The Pavilion, Sutherland | 30-31 Aug | More
An immersive showcase featuring your favourite timeless melodies from beloved Disney films. After the performance, meet iconic characters such as Moana, Snow White, and Elsa at our exclusive meet-and-greet session.

🤣 Ross Noble | The Pavilion Sutherland | 11 Sep | More
Ross Noble’s new show - Cranium of Curiosities

👨‍🎤 Better Man | The Pavilion Sutherland | 19 Sep | More
For one night only, experience the ultimate Robbie Williams tribute, life in Australia for the first time. With an uncanny resemblance to Robbie, (and officially endorsed by Williams himself), this tribute act doesn’t just perform the hits, he becomes Robbie.

🗓️ This week in the Shire

🎭️ The Gruffalo’s Child | The Pavilion, Sutherland | 25 - 26 July | More
Join the Gruffalo’s Child on her adventurous mission in this magical musical adaptation of the much loved picture book.

🧘 Intuitive Flow - Free Friday Event | True Woo, Cronulla | 25 July | More
Join us for a free Friday class. This unique class blends guided meditation, chakra balancing and gentle mobility to help you release tension and soothe your nervous system.

🎅 Holly Jolly Christmas in July | The Pavilion, Sutherland | 26 July | More
Get into the holiday spirit at this festive concert blending your favourite winter Christmas carols with classical musical theatre songs.

💐 Shire Farmers Market | Flora St Carpark, Sutherland | 26 July
Enjoy fresh, local grown produce, coffee, artisan products and gourmet treats

🌴 Canopy Fest | Kirrawee Library | 26 July
Join us for an exploration of our urban trees and landscape, with several events.

🚶 Aboriginal Bushfood Walk | Joseph Banks Native Plant Reserve | 26 July
Come for a guided walk around Joseph Banks Native Garden where you will learn about Australian native Bushfood.

🦸 Captain America & Captain Marvel Meet & Greet | Engadine Tavern | 27 July
Bring the kids for slimemaking from 12-2 and superheroes from 1-3

🌲 National Tree Day | 27 July
Come for a fun-filled morning of planting and caring for trees at Gunnamatta Park, Banksia Reserve or Rutherford Reserve. Get your hands dirty and make a positive impact on the environment.

🐶 Yoga with Puppies | True Woo, Cronulla | 27 July | More
A fun experience where pilates meets puppy cuddle time.

🎉 Festival of Lights | Westfield, Miranda | ongoing | More
From 03 July - 03 August step into an enchanting world of glowing creatures as you explore captivating light installations.

📖 The Age of Doubt | Kirrawee Library+ | 29 July | More
Australian journalists Tracey Kirkland and Gavin Fang return to address big issues of doubt and trust in a world of misinformation.

😆 Meme Street

Thanks for reading the Shire Insider! Hope you have a great weekend! Please share this edition with your best friend!