The Sydney Royal Easter Show is all about great entertainment, delicious food and agricultural showcases. Most of all, however, it’s a chance to spend quality time with family and relive childhood memories.

The Easter Show was cancelled in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. To celebrate its return this year, the City of Parramatta worked with the organisers to give away some family passes in a competition.

When Deborah found out that she was one of the lucky winners, she rang her elderly Mum straight away to ask if she felt up to it. Her Mum’s reply was "you better believe it!".

With a family historical connection to the Show, she and her sister were excited to take their Mum on this special outing with the kids. Deborah’s Aunt, who passed away earlier this year, had been a yearly competitor in the Show. Deborah grew up visiting her Aunt’s farmhouse and admiring the hallway with show ribbons covering every square inch.

On their family trip out to the Easter Show this year, Deborah’s Mum enthralled some of the staff with some old gossip of the soap-opera worthy show politics she experienced back in the day.

The Easter Show is an event that brings out the childlike delight in anyone, no matter their age. The kids blasted their way through the day fuelled by fairy floss and loved spending their carnival coupons on rides (with much overhyped dabbing). The Pirate’s Revenge came up trumps as their favourite and they were definitely not scared at all on the Haunted House ride.

For Deborah the memory she’ll treasure the most will be seeing the childlike excitement on her Mum’s face when she was given a huge fairy floss. She also loved getting some respite from the heat of the day when they got completely saturated on the carnival log ride. Her Mum’s highlight was running into one of her carers who’d entered the millinery competition.

All in all, it was a great day out at the Easter Show and a total crowd pleaser. Quotes from the kids included "absolute best day of all time" and "so epic, dude". Deborah’s Mum enjoyed every second and fell asleep on the car journey home – a sure sign that a good time was had.

“The content and the layout of the show is well designed to cater to vastly different groups and interests,” said Deborah. “You could happily spend a whole day just on the rides, or seeing the demonstrations and shows, or viewing the exhibits.”

Part of Parramatta’s local government area, Sydney Olympic Park is home to the annual Sydney Royal Easter Show. For more information about the Show visit discoverparramatta.com/royaleastershow

Anyone else just love where they live? I moved to Parramatta almost a year ago and there is always something to see and do. Whether it's having dinner at Ginger's (the BEST Indian restaurant... ever!) or seeing a show at Riverside Theatres, I love living here.

I'm studying to be a teacher, am passionate about advocating for mid-size fashion, love good food, wine, and travelling. Parramatta is the perfect home for me and my partner Joe, giving us plenty of choices of great places to eat out and things to experience.

Joe and I recently went to see 'We Will Rock You' at Riverside Theatres in Parramatta for opening night. I LOVED it! Joe and I are big musical buffs and the show absolutely exceeded my expectations. I'm looking forward to WICKED coming to Parramatta in the next few months. I last saw that show in London and just love having a local theatre in Parramatta with such great shows.

It's wonderful to have Harris Park right on our doorstep as there are so many incredible Indian restaurants to choose from. Loved picking up takeaway from Ginger, an Indian restaurant on Wigram Street in a gorgeous heritage building with pretty fairy lights.

Hi I’m Shima, I’m a model, actor, stylist and makeup artist and I live in Parramatta!

This Summer I'm getting my fun back on track with a trip to the races at the beautiful Rosehill Gardens racecourse.

When I do the races, I like to do it in style. Getting ready for the race day and choosing the perfect outfit is all part of the fun. Westfield Parramatta is always a good place to find the perfect outfit.

At Rosehill Gardens it's not just about the races, it's all about the experience. They run frequent fashion carnivals, featuring the latest trends in Australian fashion. I'm keeping my eyes peeled on the Pink Fashion Lunch for the Chandon Ladies Day in March as part of their Autumn Carnival.

Here the Chandon is flowing and the dining menu absolutely exquisite. The perfect excuse to get dressed up and enjoy a day out with friends.

I finished up my race day with some dinner and drinks at a gorgeous new restaurant in Parramatta Square called CicciaBella. I'd been dying to try this place as everyone raves about its sister restaurant in Bondi.

Hey, we’re Andy & Jesy and along with our little one, we’re @thetravellercouple.

Normally we love travelling around the world but COVID has put overseas travels on the backburner for now but this Summer we're not complaining because we have the City of Parramatta to explore.

It’s a great time to explore our own backyard and treating yourself to a City mini-break really makes you feel like you’ve had a holiday. Our recent Parramatta adventure took us for a staycation at Sydney Olympic Park.

We started off at Newington Armory which is an interesting history & arts precinct. We enjoyed exploring the nooks and crannies of this old spot and riding the rails of the historic railway.

Then it was well and truly time to cool off at the Blaxland Riverside Park which has one of the best children’s water play areas and great waterside views! There’s even a café nearby if you fancy a cool drink or snack.

We checked in at the Pullman Hotel which has great views of Sydney Olympic Park, opting in for the luxurious Fresh Catch package. This included a seafood platter, bottle of wine, free parking, breakfast, and late checkout. The seafood platter was incredible and we had such a relaxing stay.

The next morning, feeling refreshed, we finished up our trip by stopping at the Brickpit Ring Walk. This 18.5m high circular walkway gave us a view of the pond while we listened out with our 3-year-old for the frogs and birds who lived there. The perfect way to spend family time together and feel like we had a little holiday!

Instagram @thetravellercouple

I’m a wife and mother of two and together we are the @hungrylittletravellers.

Parramatta has always meant home to our family. I attended Parramatta North public primary school and spent my high school year swimming here.

After I got married I moved back with my husband, where we had our firstborn at Westmead.

I’m Indian and my hubby is Russian, so the fact Parramatta is so multicultural is so important to us and our kids.

We recently moved out of Parramatta but we return most weekends to enjoy an ice cream at Messina’s or a picnic out by Lake Parramatta.

We recently had a glorious family day trip to Lake Parramatta. The sun was shining and we found a lovely shady spot for a picnic under the beautiful trees. We got a grazing Mezza box delivered to our door from the Mulberry Tree Cafe Parramatta. With tasty falafel, fried cauliflower, spinach triangles, carrots, and celery with great dips, it was a great healthy option for the kids to chow down on.

We hired a pedal boat from Parramatta Row Boats and went bushwalking, looking out for interesting leaves and wildlife along the way. There are a few different bushwalking tracks around the lake so we found one that's good for little legs! There's also the Children's playground under the leafy green trees and even a cafe to pick up a refreshing drink.

Parramatta's parks and nature reserves make it the perfect place to spend time with our kids. I truly believe that it's so important that we give children plenty of time to grow and thrive in nature.

Instagram @hungrylitteltravellers

My name is Katherine. I am a mother to two beautiful humans, a lawyer, and a business owner.

I love Parramatta for many reasons. I’ve worked in the City for over a decade, my daughter attends secondary school in the area and I run my business from Lachlan House in Parramatta Park. This summer I've loved the Philip Lane activation with delicious food and drinks, arts, plants, and a great vibe.

During the summer holidays, I’m always looking for activities to keep my children occupied. There are always so many school holiday programs available in the City of Parramatta that get the kids outdoors and having fun.

My summer's day out in Parramatta Park with my daughter was truly one for the memory books. Just the two of us, it was so special to have some quality bonding time away from the boys before school starts again! She's growing so quickly and I am so conscious of keeping a healthy connection with her before her teenage years.

We chatted over high tea at The Gatehouse Tea Rooms, took a walk through Parramatta Park, toured the historic Dairy Cottages, and twirled in the Rumney Rose gardens in our matching outfits.

Instagram @stylendipity

Hi, I’m Nisha. I’m a fashion and lifestyle blogger based in Sydney but Parramatta has my heart.

So far this Summer I've ticked a few items off my Parramatta bucket list, including cycling along the river, exploring some of the heritage buildings, and visiting the brand spanking new eateries at Parramatta Square. Here's how I recommend you spend a Summer's day out in Parramatta.

My perfect Summer's day out started with a relaxing ride along the Parramatta Valley Cycleway. I picked up a gorgeous retro-vintage bike from Addvantageous @Parramatta Bike Hub and started my cycle at Parramatta Park – an absolute gem of a place for leisurely walks, pretty heritage buildings, picnics, and even a luxe high tea.

The Parramatta Valley Cycleway hugs the Parramatta river, passing some interesting indigenous art and the ferry wharf before getting deeper into the mangroves and wetlands. There are so many heritage spots along the route and I couldn't resist stopping to admire the Whitlam Institute, a beautiful old building originally used as an orphanage school for girls.

Then I circled back around and parked my bike at Hambledon Cottage for a guided tour. Parramatta has a whole bunch of tours to choose from and it was great hearing about the stories of this gorgeous heritage building. I just love the Georgian-style bungalow with those gorgeous big French windows and pretty veranda.

Of course, a big morning out wouldn’t be complete without stopping somewhere for a well-deserved refreshing drink after.

I’d heard that Parramatta Square is looking pretty schmick so I tried out their newly opened bar The Ruse Bar & Brasserie for some drinks. Rivareno Gelato has an amazing range of flavours too which is hard for someone with a sweet tooth to resist!

Instagram @ ootdstylistaa

Hi, I’m Dominique! I’m a DJ /singer and I go by the stage name Lionette.

I love Parramatta for so many reasons but for me, the sense of the Sri Lankan community mixed with getting to see my family, always makes it feel like coming home.

With its great bars and restaurants, an evening in Parramatta is always bound to be a good one. This Summer, the City is buzzing and is the perfect evening hangout. Here’s how I recently spent a night out in Parramatta.

As a DJ I like hanging out in chill bars and starting off my evenings with a creative cocktail. Parramatta has one of the best cocktail bars around.

Uncle Kurt’s on Horwood Place is tucked away under a multi-storey car park and it great for Friday night drinks after a long work week. With its graffiti-plastered walls, barred windows and hip-hop beats it has all the underground feels.

A short walk away from Uncle Kurt’s, Phillip Lane is coming to life on Friday and Saturday nights this Summer with its outdoor dining laneway activation.

Decorated with plants, lights, and an incredible art installation called ‘Nostalgia Above’ by Capto Collaborative/ANL Design, Phillip Lane is a vibe. I grabbed a bite to eat from John Belvedere, a delicious burger on a milk bun.

It wasn’t long before the nearby Lebanese restaurant El-Phoenician sent out some belly dancers who got the Friday night carnival feels going.

I stopped by Parramatta Square after to get some dessert from a great new gelato place called Rivareno Gelato and loved watching cute old black and white footage of couples dancing on Storybox Parramatta.

But the thing I was most excited about was seeing Parramatta’s Christmas tree and lights. They did not disappoint. It’s such a beautiful time of year: warm summer nights, a drink in hand, and Christmas lights; there’s nothing better.

Instagram @lionettemusic

Director and Head Coach at Capax CrossFit, Ben Lambert is passionate about helping his members achieve their health and fitness goals. He believes in a practical approach to fitness, full of support and goal-setting to help his members feel challenged and inspired.

That being said, when it comes down to being successful in the gym, Ben believes there’s only one thing you really need to do: show up. If you show up for a workout you’ve already won. Everyone has good days and bad days in the gym but the secret to success is to keep coming back. It’s this philosophy that boosts the fun and welcoming atmosphere at Capax CrossFit.

A community in training…

The Capax CrossFit community is made up of members from all levels of fitness, working side-by-side to achieve their personal fitness goals. Whether you’re a beginner or you’ve been training for some time, Ben and his coaches will work with you to build your fitness, improve your technique and help you get results. With strength-based sessions, aerobic sessions and mixed sessions to choose from, you’ll never be bored when you step into the gym.

Personalised support and coaching…

Capax Crossfit offers body transformation challenges, corporate wellness programs, group and one-on-one sessions. Classes run from Monday to Friday in the mornings and evenings making it easier than ever to fit in your gym session around work hours. With group classes capped at 10 participants, you’ll receive personalised support by a coach who will adapt the workout to your current fitness ability and coach you on your technique.

More than a gym…

For many of Ben’s members, Capax CrossFit is not just a gym, it’s a social outlet. Rather than sweating it out alone in the gym, Capax CrossFit’s group training sessions are geared towards creating a shared environment where members can interact and have a laugh while improving their health and fitness.

In the current climate where many people are spending more time at home, the gym is a fantastic way to get out of the house, get moving and socialise with like-minded people.

If you’re interested in feeling fitter, leaner, stronger and joining a friendly community, head on down to Capax CrossFit at 1/109-113 George St Parramatta 2150 or call Ben on 0423 031 865.

Special Offer – 5 sessions for $55

Interested in joining in on the fun at Capax CrossFit? Click here to book 5 sessions for $55. Redeem online until 11/10/2020. Sessions valid for 21 days from purchase.

When House of Albert first opened its doors back in May 1988, Albert already had 20 years’ experience in the rag trade under his belt.

After taking up occupancy at four different locations around Western Sydney over the years, Albert eventually settled in his current home in Horwood Place. With little foot traffic outside the store, Albert has built a superb reputation amongst his customers as being a master tailor and true gentleman, which keeps them coming back year after year.

Parramatta’s tailor and alterations expert...

When you meet Albert from House of Albert, you’re instantly met with a warm smile, usually accompanied by a tape measure propped over one shoulder. Albert’s lifetime of experience is evident in his keen eye for fabrics, measuring and tailoring. Known by many of his customers for being able to pick the perfect suit in the perfect size simply by looking at them, Albert’s expertise is what sets him apart from his competitors.

In-house team of professional tailors...

Made-to-measure service has never been easier with the in-house team of professional tailors at House of Albert. Catering to men’s and women’s tailoring, this specialised team have decades of experience between them. From altering a wedding dress by taking it apart and putting it back together a week before the wedding, to making suits from scratch in store, no job is too big or too small.

High-quality materials to suit you...

With high-quality fabrics such as Holland & Sherry, Dormeuil and Davisha available in store, and a broad range of readymade suits to fit different body shapes, House of Albert is proof that you don’t need to leave Parramatta to find a quality suit.

If you’re looking for a high-quality garment and old-fashioned service with a smile, look no further than House of Albert.
House of Albert is located at Shop 6, 1 Horwood Place in Parramatta.

Raymund Estil is the face (and feet) behind Urban Salsa, Parramatta’s premier Latin dance studio. Raymund is one of Australia’s leading Latin dance instructors and has been inspiring students for nearly 20 years.

Across his career, Raymund has travelled acround Australia and internationally to teach and perform. Now he brings his experience and knowledge of Latin American dancing to the local community from his studio in the heart of Parramatta.

Raymund’s style and teaching methods aim to have his students move effortlessly from the classroom to the dancefloor.

A dance class at Urban Salsa will also give you a fun lesson on the history, culture and food of Latin America too. It’s a social experience, one that is not limited to the studio. Raymund brings people together and fosters connection in his community by running social events both at the Urban Salsa studio and in venues across Parramatta.

The mission at Urban Salsa is simple – to grow the salsa dancing scene in Parramatta and Western Sydney and uphold an ‘everyone’s welcome’ philosophy.

What separates Urban Salsa from a traditional dance class is the inviting atmosphere and family feel you get when you walk into the studio. It’s all about socialising and connecting with different people through music and dance – while still mastering the fundamentals. It’s that perfect mix of professionalism and fun that his students love about Urban Salsa.

Whether you’re by yourself, with a friend or in a group, head on down to Urban Salsa to get a great workout and join the familia.

You can find the Urban Salsa dance studio at Shop 28, 55-67 George Street, Parramatta 2150, (entrance via Horwood Place), or visit the website at https://urbansalsa.net/.

Evening classes run on Sundays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays.

When Mary Dias and her husband arrived in Australia during the 2000 Olympics, she couldn’t find the ingredients and products to cook her Mexican dishes.

“We used to alternate with my parents one year they’ll come to Australia for holidays and the following year we’ll go for holidays to Mexico. Every time they and us brought the suitcases full of products. However, I found the products didn’t last so my husband and I decided to bring our first container of Mexican products to Australia and buy a tortilla machine and the rest is history. We have been bringing more products in every container and now we are also importing South American products.”

Mary Dias is the founder of Fireworks Foods, an importer and manufacturer of tortillas, corn chips and a wide range of Mexica, Latin American and USA products. Located in North Rocks, Fireworks Foods has been in business for 16 years and Mary’s passion for authentic Mexican and Latin American ingredients is still as strong today as when the business first opened.

When asked why she chose to set up in North Rocks, Mary explained how she fell in love with the suburb.

“I arrived in Australia in 2000 when the Australia Olympics were just starting and we were living in Liberty Grove close to Concord West Train Station, the apartment was beautiful but it was very noisy. One day in our way to visit my sister in law we drove by North Rocks Road, they had an open house and we just felt in love with the suburb. It’s very quiet, there are possums, kookaburras, cockatoos, blue lizards, rosellas, frogs and many parks around us.

For us North Rocks is the place” to grow a family, our neighbours are great and a bonus there is a small industrial area in North Rocks just a walking distance from our home.”

You can visit Fireworks Foods shopfront at 217 North Rocks Road where Mary and her team are always welcoming you to sample from the wide range and recommend the most authentic products for your Mexican feast. www.fireworksfoods.com.au
 
COCHINITA PIBIL IN SLOW COOKER
Pork Pibil
Yucatan, Mexico
Serves 6

Ingredients
2-3kgs Pork Shoulder preferably bone in
50grs El Yucateco Achiote Paste
½ cup Orange juice
¼ cup White vinegar
¼ cup Lime juice
½ Teaspoon ground cumin
½ Teaspoon dried Mexican oregano
½ Teaspoon ground pepper
2 cloves
8 Garlic cloves crushed
¼ White sliced onion
2 tablespoons salt
24 Corn Tortillas Carmelita

Pickled Onions
2 Purple Onions thinly sliced
¼ cup Fresh orange Juice
¼ cup Fresh lime juice
1/8 Teaspoon dried Mexican Oregano
1/3 teaspoon sliced Habanero El Yucateco (optional)
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup boiling water

To Serve
½ Cup fresh coriander roughly chopped
4-6 Sliced lime
Salsa verde, roja (optional)

To Prepare the Pork Pibil:
Add the achiote paste, orange juice, vinegar, lime juice, cumin, oregano, salt and pepper to the blender to make the achiote marinade.

Rub the pork all over with the achiote marinade (wearing plastic gloves the achiote can stain your hands), cover and let the marinade to work overnight or at least 2-4 hrs.

Place the pork inside the slow cooker with all the achiote’s marinade juices, top the meat with the crushed garlic and the sliced onion. Cook on low for 9-10hrs or on high for 6-8 hrs. Until the meat is soft and tender and it falls apart. Shred the meat with 2 forks, keep the meat warm inside the slow cooker.

To Prepare the Pickled Onions:
Place the sliced onions in a colander on top of a casserole.

Pour the hot water on top of the onions using the colander drain well the onions.

Transfer the onions to a clean serving bowl, add the orange and lime juices, salt, oregano and the sliced habanero.
Combine well and set aside.

You can keep the pickle onions in a jar in the fridge for 3-4 days you can use them in tacos, tostadas, sandwiches, hot dogs, etc.

You can prepare the pickled onions the night before or at least 1hr before, keep in the fridge until you are ready to use them.

To Prepare the Tacos:
Have all your ingredients ready on serving dishes on the table for the guests to make their own tacos: Pork Pibil, coriander, lime, pickle onions and salsa (optional). Warm the corn tortillas (following the package’s heating instructions), keep them warm in a tortilla warmer. Top the tortilla with the shredded pork, pickled onions, coriander, lime juice and more salsa.

Serving Suggestions: You can serve the Pork Pibil in a plate with beans and Mexican Rice on the side of the tacos.

Buen Provecho!