Where drive-in cinemas and multicultural festivals co-exist

When I was growing up and mentioned to an “outsider” that I lived in Blacktown, I would shudder inside. Sydney’s western suburbs continue to overcome some not-so-pleasant views and stereotypes, where adverse reporting and chatter can easily cloud people’s perceptions. Blacktown is no stranger to that.

While the region lacks the sandy shores of Bondi or Balgowlah or the architectural grandeur of the CBD, as one of Australia’s most multicultural regions, nothing matches its authenticity.

Multicultural mix: a celebration of Indian Independence Day in Nurragingy Reserve.Credit: Nick Moir

Here, the variety of restaurants gives you a home-like feel and tastes that resonate with the community, many of whom stand with pride in representing the vibrancy of their cultural backgrounds. And so, why shouldn’t I?

Here’s a local lens on the suburb I’m proud to call home.

What does summer mean to you?

Making an entire day excursion to the beach, starting with a much-needed iced coffee to brace for the drive ahead and likely parking drama. The journey home is often rewarded with a frozen coke, which hits the spot after a day in the sun.

Up close and personal: koalas at Featherdale Wildlife Park.Credit: Louise Kennerley

Best cafe? As one of Blacktown’s recent additions, Apollo Espresso’s top-tier coffee and friendly faces have quickly won my heart – and bank account.

Best restaurant? Smoking Gringos, conveniently located across the road from the Apollo, has arguably the best birria tacos in town as the constant queue indicates. The corn ribs are also a must-try.

Best beach, park, or pool? Nurragingy Reserve is at the heart of my many memories growing up, from feeding the ducks with my sisters with Lebanese bread (which I now realise is a no-no) to taking my formal photos at the picturesque Chang Lai Yuan Chinese Gardens.

Movie under the stars at the Skyline Drive-in.

First place you take visitors? I remember taking my cousins to Featherdale Wildlife Park when they arrived in Sydney for a wedding – and they loved it. It’s a unique experience to get up close and feed some of the local wildlife, from kangaroos and koalas to penguins.

Channelling Grease at the retro diner.

Perfect night out in your suburb? When Sydney’s weather serves us right, the Skyline Drive-In Blacktown is a perfect spot for a night out. As one of Australia’s few remaining drive-in cinemas, it’s easy to channel myself into a scene from Grease every time I step into its retro-styled diner.

What would make your suburb better? While the day trip to the beach allows for some unmatched car jams – I think most people in the west would agree that they wish there was a much closer beach.

Best secret spot in your suburb? Pemulwuy Lookout offers a nice panoramic glimpse of the surrounding regions and CBD – and makes for a good Instagram story. Closer to home for me is Woodcroft’s Lake, where the sunsets across the backdrop of swans and surrounding greenery kept me sane during my regular pandemic strolls.

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