Modern Australian Magazine
The Times

What Every Homeowner Should Know About Roof and Drainage Maintenance

A home's roof and drainage system work together every day to protect the property from water damage. While many homeowners focus on visible areas such...

From Plans to Priced Quote: The Estimating Workflow Most Builders Skip

For a small one-off job, an experienced builder can size up the materials in their head. The problem is that most jobs are not small one-off jobs, and...

Organisational Experts Share Their Tips for Achieving a Clutter-Free Kitchen

They say the kitchen is the heart of a house which means a clutter-free kitchen not only makes your home in general look nicer, it also makes cookin...

10 Creative Ways AI Image Extenders Are Transforming Digital Content Creation in 2026

Introduction Artificial intelligence continues to reshape the digital landscape, and one of the most exciting innovations in 2026 is the rise of AI i...

What to Do When You're Arrested in Victoria

Most people have thought about this in the abstract. A knock at the door, a hand on the shoulder, a car pulled over on the Hume. In the abstract, th...

Common Financial Disputes During Separation

Separation hits on many levels, not just emotionally. When a partnership ends, untangling the financial side — assets, debts, and everything built t...

Why Posting More Content is Killing Your Brand

More content. More often. More platforms.Most brands have been running this playbook for three years. Most brands have nothing to show for it.Not be...

Garden Clean-Up vs. Regular Maintenance: Which Do You Really Need?

Most people ring a gardener and ask for a "tidy up." What they mean by that, and what the garden actually needs, are often two completely different ...

Solar Panel Maintenance Tips for Melbourne Homes

Three years in and the panels are still on the roof. The inverter is still blinking. The electricity bills are still lower than they used to be, rou...

Cost Effective Kitchen Renovations – From the Ground Up

Even in times of uncertainty, it seems renovations continue to be on the to-do list for many Australian property owners. As a result, demand on materi...

Why Bathroom Product Selection Matters More Than Most Homeowners Realise

Most homeowners think wrong when it comes to a bathroom renovation. They think hard about the layout. Spend hours choosing tiles. Agonise over pain...

How An Asbestos Removalist Ensures Safe And Compliant Property Environments in Melbourne

Maintaining a safe environment within residential and commercial properties requires careful management of hazardous materials, which is why engaging ...


2019’s Unforgettable Valentine’s Day Ideas In Sydney

  • Written by News Company

With New Year’s Eve and Christmas not far behind us, Valentine’s Day is sneaking up. Sure, there are the cynics who believe 14 February is just a day of corporate conspiracy, but many of us look forward to the special day of love. So, it is time to start thinking about how you want to impress and spoil that important person in your life. It goes without saying you have all the classic Valentine’s gifts like chocolates, long lasting roses and jewellery, but let’s get a bit creative. Instead of a stuffed teddy bear holding an ‘I love you’ heart, why not give your Valentine an unforgettable date by kicking it up a notch with something fresh? Have a flick through some of these original ideas.





DIY Picnic

Why not impress your partner with a picnic basket of tasty treats? What’s not to love about sitting and eating surrounded by a beautiful landscape like that of Garrison’s Point, whispering sweet nothings into your loved one’s ear, away from bustling crowds? Spoil your partner with their favourite cheeses, meats and a bottle of wine or bubbly. Just don’t forget your picnic rug.

Night Under The Stars

How about a night under the stars with your Valentine? Centennial Park opens up for this special night while you watch the sun set over the city and say goodbye to the bats as they leave the park. Score points from your loved one with astronomer Dr Luke Barnes from Western Sydney University who will show you just how easy stargazing can be. Score even more points by packing your date’s favourite food and wine in a hamper and take residence on the lawn’s already prepared picnic rug.

Raunchy Romance With Tim McIntyre

For the adults amongst us, there is a line up of Australian actors – Tim McIntyre, Megan Alston and Steve Lynch - who will take you into the world of romance and erotica at Balmain Town Hall. Join these performers as they give you a night to remember with some of the raunchiest and most romantic stories you’ll ever hear. Top it off with a glass of wine. Then you’ll have a good excuse for those flushed cheeks.

Lunar New Year Film: A Simple Life

Don’t want to say goodbye to the buzz of the Lunar New Year? Why not treat you and your date to a Cantonese film? Showing at Leichhardt Library, ‘A Simple Life’ features an altruistic maid who declares she wants to quit her job after suffering a stroke and move into an old people’s home.

Dine With A Difference: Spanish Tapas

The Spanish know romance. So, why not treat your date to five courses of delicious Spanish tapas at Alegrias in Balmain? Feel yourself transported to Spain in Sydney’s inner west and dare to be romanced at a candlelit table. Go so far as to surprise your date with Valentine’s Day roses and score yourself some big bonus points.

Indoor Trampolining

If you and your partner are fitness fanatics, why not give indoor trampolining a go at Sky High Indoor Trampoline Park? Located in Bankstown, Sky High is decked out in state-of-the-art facilities suitable for all ages and skill levels. If trampolining doesn’t take your fancy, give the Ninja Warrior Course or Rock Climbing your best shot.

Ferris Wheel At The Deck

Who says the kids have all the fun? The Deck at Milson’s Point is hosting a special Valentine’s event this year. Take in breathtaking views of Sydney while gnawing away at a three-course meal in your very own carriage.

It doesn’t end there. Release your inner child and continue the fun and excitement of legendary Luna Park. Hop on vintage-style fairground rides and win your date a prize at an entertaining sideshow game.

Chinese Garden Of Friendship

You and your date will be in for a treat celebrating Valentine’s Day at the Chinese Garden of Friendship. For one night only, you can dawdle hand-in-hand around the Chinese Garden while being entertained by Chinese artists from the Yangjiang Group. Grasshopper Eating House and Bar will take care of your culinary cravings while DJs will look after the musical side of things. Yangjiang Group will put on a show for you but beware, you may be invited to participate.

You will have the chance to sample different teas in the Tea Garden and even have your face painted.

So, with Valentine’s Day once again glistening on the horizon, make sure you give your partner a date to remember, and kiss the monotonous set menu or take-away and ‘The Notebook’ goodbye.


Holidays & Travel

Interstate Car Transporter Urges Buyers to Book Early

As the conflict in the Middle East continues to put increasing pressure on local fuel supply, Australian transport companies are experiencing increasing financial and logistical pressures.  Interstate car transporters are urging...

A Beginner's Guide to Owning a Caravan in Australia

Owning a caravan opens up a style of travel that's hard to match for freedom and flexibility. However, for those just starting out, the process of choosing, purchasing and setting...

Long Weekend Camping in the Yarra Ranges: Three Weekends of High Country Adventure

Yarra Ranges National Park, Victoria. Image by Mattinbgn (talk · contribs), CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia CommonsVictoria’s Yarra Ranges offer keen travellers a change of scenery and the taste of...

Preparing for Your First Trip to San Francisco in 2026

San Francisco has long occupied a particular place in the Australian imagination. It is compact yet complex, progressive but historic, and visually striking without feeling overwhelming. For first-time visitors, the...

Top Safety and Comfort Features to Consider in Family Off Road Caravans

Exploring Australia’s coastline, bush tracks or outback locations is far more enjoyable when travelling in a caravan designed for both comfort and durability. Many families browsing caravans for sale do...

Barbecue Boats – The New Must-Have for Retirees!

When your working years are behind you, it’s time to kick back and relax. You’ve earned it! And there’s no better way to do that than by purchasing your very...

7 Ways a Luxury Australian Cruise Transforms Your Travel Expectations

Dreaming of your next holiday? Forget the crowded tourist traps and consider something truly special: a luxury australian cruise. More than just a holiday, it's a transformative experience that will redefine...

Affordable Invisalign in Bangkok Why Australians Are Choosing Thailand

More Australians are investing in Invisalign to straighten their teeth, but the treatment in Australia can cost thousands of dollars and often takes months just to begin. As a result...

The Power of Giving Back: How Volunteering Shapes Your Mindset

To say the least, volunteering can maximally change the way you see the world. Period. When you step into someone else’s shoes, even for a few hours, you start noticing...

Fashion & Beauty

Why AS/NZS Certified Sunglasses Are Essential for Australian Kids

Australia has some of the highest UV radiation levels in the world. That's not a warning label exaggeration; it's a measurable, documented fact that shapes everything from how we build...

How to Choose the Right Barber Shears Scissors for Professional Results

Since a barber is only as good as their tool, choosing the right barber shear scissor must not be taken lightly. Most barbers end up buying the first pair of...

How to Make the Most of Fashion Wholesale Options for Your Brand

If you want to grow a fashion brand without constantly reinventing the wheel, wholesale can be one of the smartest ways to scale. The key is knowing how to source...

Expert-Led Solutions for Clear Complexions

Many people struggle with acne at different stages of their lives, and the journey toward clearer skin often feels overwhelming. Breakouts affect not only appearance but also confidence, comfort, and...

Is Long-Term Pigmentation Correction Possible?

Many individuals struggle with pigmentation concerns that affect how their skin appears and how they feel about themselves. These darkened patches, spots, or uneven tones can develop from sun exposure...

What to Know When Researching a Tummy Tuck on the Gold Coast

Body confidence is something many people seek to improve as they move through different stages of life. Pregnancy, weight fluctuations and ageing can all lead to stretched skin, weakened abdominal...