Sydney Kids’ Weekend Guide: 8 Fun Things to Do, October 10–11

Looking for something exciting to do with the kids this weekend? From magical adventures and live shows to wildlife experiences, interactive activities, and family-friendly community events, Sydney and surrounding areas are packed with things for young explorers to enjoy.

Here are 8 events worth checking out this weekend.

1. Wild Things International Kids Festival — Sydney Opera House

📍 Sydney Opera House, Bennelong Point
📅 Until Sunday, October 11

The Sydney Opera House is going wild this school holidays with Wild Things International Kids Festival, a creative wonderland designed for children and families.

Running until October 11, the festival features performances, workshops, installations and free family experiences. The Opera House Forecourt has been transformed into an outdoor playground, with giant swings, surprise performances and plenty of opportunities for kids to explore.

Activities suit different ages, including Grand Soft Day for ages 2–6, Be Kind for babies aged 6–18 months, as well as SWING, Iwagumi Air Scape and Les moutons.

StarCentral Kids Pick: Our number one choice for a full day of imagination, creativity and family fun.

2. Play School Live: Humpty’s Big Celebration! — Chippendale

📍 Seymour Centre, Chippendale
📅 Saturday, October 10

Humpty is getting ready for a BIG celebration!

Celebrating 60 years of Play School, this special live concert brings favourite Play School characters to the stage for a fun-filled experience featuring singing, dancing and plenty of audience participation.

It’s a great choice for preschoolers and younger children who already love Play School.

3. Tinkerbell and the Dream Fairies — Royal Botanic Garden

📍 Royal Botanic Garden Sydney
📅 Saturday, October 10 & Sunday, October 11

Step into a magical world with Tinkerbell and the Dream Fairies.

Children can follow Tinkerbell and her fairy friends on a magical adventure filled with music, dancing and audience participation. Kids are also encouraged to dress up as fairies, elves, pirates, superheroes or their favourite characters.

Perfect for: Little ones who love fantasy, fairies and dressing up.

4. Harry Potter: The Exhibition — Sydney Olympic Park

📍 Sydney Olympic Park
📅 From October 8, 2026

Calling all young witches and wizards!

Harry Potter: The Exhibition brings the magic of the Harry Potter universe to life through costumes, props, interactive experiences and behind-the-scenes filmmaking magic.

Families can step inside the wizarding world and discover some of the iconic objects and characters from the films.

StarCentral Kids Tip: Check session times before heading out and allow plenty of time to explore.

5. Creature Rescue Squad — Darling Harbour

📍 SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium & WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo
📅 This weekend

It’s time for kids to become wildlife heroes!

Creature Rescue Squad gives young explorers missions to complete while discovering incredible animals from land and sea.

Kids can learn about wildlife and conservation while exploring the aquarium and zoo, making this a fun experience that also has an educational twist.

Perfect for: Animal lovers and budding conservationists.

6. Mind Games Are Alive – Broadway

📍 Broadway
📅 School holidays

Looking for something a little different?

Mind Games Are Alive gives kids the opportunity to challenge themselves through interactive experiences, puzzles and activities designed to get young minds thinking.

It’s a great option for curious children who enjoy problem-solving, challenges and discovering how things work.

Perfect for: Curious kids who love puzzles and interactive experiences.

7. Family Funday — Ku-ring-gai

📍 Ku-ring-gai
📅 This weekend

Families looking for a relaxed day closer to home can check out Family Funday in Ku-ring-gai.

With family-friendly activities and community entertainment, it’s a great option for parents looking for something enjoyable to do with the kids without travelling into the Sydney CBD.

Perfect for: Families looking for a community-focused day out.

8. Splash at the New Kids’ Cove

📍 Kids’ Cove
📅 This weekend

Get ready to make a splash!

The new Kids’ Cove is another exciting option for families looking to keep the little ones entertained this weekend. Designed with kids in mind, it offers a fun environment where children can play, explore and enjoy some active family time.

For families looking for something energetic and refreshing during the school holidays, Splash at the new Kids’ Cove is definitely one to put on the list.

Perfect for: Kids who love water, active play and getting outdoors.

StarCentral Kids’ Weekend Pick

From the magic of the Sydney Opera House to Harry Potter, wildlife adventures, Play School, fairies, mind games and splash-filled fun, there’s plenty happening for Sydney families this weekend.

Whether you’re looking for something educational, creative, active or simply fun, October 10–11 is shaping up to be a big weekend for Sydney kids.

Which event will your family choose?

StarCentral Kids Movie Review: Forgotten Island. . . A Magical Adventure Full of Friendship and Fun

DreamWorks Animation takes young audiences on a colourful journey into Filipino folklore, where two best friends discover that being brave is easier when you have someone by your side.

Get ready for an adventure filled with friendship, mystery, laughter and a whole lot of magic! Forgotten Island takes audiences on a journey to the mysterious world of Nakali, where two best friends, Jo and Raissa, find themselves caught up in an extraordinary adventure.

Set in the Philippines during the 1990s, the film follows Jo and Raissa as they become trapped on the mystical island. What begins as a frightening situation soon becomes an unforgettable journey filled with strange creatures, exciting discoveries and challenges that test their friendship.

Welcome to Nakali!

One of the most exciting things about Forgotten Island is its colourful Filipino setting. The movie introduces young viewers to elements of Filipino culture and folklore while creating a fantasy world that feels mysterious and full of surprises.

Nakali isn’t simply a place where the characters happen to be stuck — it becomes an important part of their adventure. From the magical surroundings to the creatures they encounter, there is always something new to discover.

For kids, this makes the movie feel like stepping inside a storybook where anything could happen.

Friendship Is at the Heart of the Story

At its centre, Forgotten Island is a story about friendship.

Jo and Raissa may find themselves in a situation that is bigger and scarier than anything they have experienced before, but their friendship gives them the courage to keep going.

The movie reminds young viewers that being brave doesn’t mean never feeling scared. Sometimes, being brave means taking the next step even when you’re nervous — especially when you have a good friend beside you.

It’s a message that makes the adventure feel meaningful without taking away from the fun.

A Colourful Animated World

Visually, Forgotten Island is packed with colourful environments, imaginative characters and magical moments.

DreamWorks Animation brings the world of Nakali to life with the kind of energy that makes animation especially exciting for younger audiences. The island feels like a place where every corner could reveal a new secret.

The combination of fantasy, comedy and adventure keeps the story moving and gives kids plenty to look at throughout the film.

Meet the Voices Behind the Characters

The movie features an impressive voice cast, including H.E.R. as Jo and Liza Soberano as Raissa.

The cast also includes Dave Franco, Jenny Slate, Manny Jacinto, Dolly de Leon, Jo Koy, Ronny Chieng, Kevin McCann and Lea Salonga.

Their performances help give the characters their own personalities, from the adventurous moments to the funny and emotional ones.

Having a cast with strong connections to Filipino culture also adds to the film’s distinctive identity.

What Can Kids Take Away From It?

Beyond the magical creatures and exciting adventure, Forgotten Island has some great messages for younger viewers.

Friendship matters.
Having someone you trust can make difficult situations easier.

Be curious.
Exploring something unfamiliar can lead to amazing discoveries.

Be brave.
You don’t have to be fearless to be courageous.

Don’t give up.
Sometimes the biggest adventures come from challenges you never expected.

StarCentral Kids Verdict

Forgotten Island is the kind of animated adventure that gives young audiences plenty to enjoy — colourful characters, magical settings, funny moments and a friendship at the centre of the story.

For kids who love fantasy, adventure, friendship and discovering new worlds, Nakali offers plenty of reasons to jump into the adventure.

Most importantly, Forgotten Island encourages young viewers to remember that even when the world feels unfamiliar, having courage, curiosity and a good friend can make all the difference.

STAR CENTRAL KIDS RATING: ★★★★½

FILM DETAILS

Title: Forgotten Island
Studio: DreamWorks Animation
Genre: Animated Fantasy Comedy
Directors: Joel Crawford & Januel Mercado
Featuring the voices of: H.E.R., Liza Soberano, Dave Franco, Jenny Slate, Manny Jacinto, Dolly de Leon, Jo Koy, Ronny Chieng, Kevin McCann and Lea Salonga.

Image Credit: © DreamWorks Animation / Universal Pictures. Official promotional artwork.

Zac Power: The Ultimate Junior Spy Mission Is Coming!

Get ready, junior spies! A brand-new adventure is heading to the big screen, and Zac Power is reporting for duty!

Based on the smash-hit spy book series by H.I. Larry, Zac Power is bringing secret agents, incredible gadgets, hilarious moments and a mega mission to cinemas January 7.

And the brand-new trailer is available now!

🚨 ONE SPY. ONE RIVAL. ONE HUGE MISSION.

Zac Power is determined to stay at the top of the junior spy rankings at GIB — the secret organisation where young agents take on some seriously tricky missions.

But everything changes when a cooler new agent arrives.

Suddenly, Zac has a rival.

And things are about to get even more complicated.

When Zac’s own recklessness allows a maniacal magician to steal a high-tech super weapon, he finds himself facing a mission bigger than anything he’s tackled before.

To save the day, Zac has no choice but to team up with his rival.

But there’s just one problem…

She has secrets of her own!

⚡ ACTION, SPY GADGETS & BIG LAUGHS

From high-tech super weapons to secret missions, Zac Power promises a fast-paced adventure packed with excitement.

Zac will have to learn that being a great spy isn’t just about having the coolest gadgets or being the fastest agent. Sometimes, you need to trust your teammates, admit your mistakes and work together.

And when the fate of the world is at stake, there’s no time for arguments!

🎬 A STAR-STUDDED VOICE CAST

Bringing the characters to life is an impressive voice cast featuring Parker Little, Kylie Cantrall, Matt Lucas, David Wenham, Leah Purcell, Ed Oxenbould, Tanya Hennessy and Tim Minchin.

Behind the camera, the film is directed by Alexs Stadermann and David Webster, with a screenplay by Fin Edquist, John Armstrong, Lawrence Leung and Erica Harrison.

The film is produced by Barbara Stephen, Alexia Gates-Foale, Celine Goetz, Patrick Egerton and Leah James.

🌏 AN AUSTRALIAN SPY ADVENTURE

Zac Power is a Flying Bark and Cheeky Little Media production in association with Pixel Zoo Animation Studios.

The film has received major production investment from Screen Australia in association with the Australian Children’s Television Foundation (ACTF), with post, digital and visual effects supported by Screen NSW and Screen Queensland.

Distribution in Australia and New Zealand is by Paramount Pictures, while international sales are handled by Studio 100 Film.

🕵️‍♂️ YOUR MISSION, SHOULD YOU CHOOSE TO ACCEPT IT…

The countdown is officially on!

Whether you’re already a Zac Power superfan or discovering the junior spy for the first time, this mission promises plenty of action, laughs and surprises.

So grab your imaginary spy glasses, prepare your secret-agent skills and get ready…

ZAC POWER IS COMING TO CINEMAS JANUARY 7!

🎥 Check out the brand-new trailer now and get ready for the ultimate junior spy adventure!

Based on: The books by H.I. Larry
Directed by: Alexs Stadermann & David Webster
Written by: Fin Edquist, John Armstrong, Lawrence Leung & Erica Harrison
Cast: Parker Little, Kylie Cantrall, Matt Lucas, David Wenham, Leah Purcell, Ed Oxenbould, Tanya Hennessy & Tim Minchin

Introducing Kathy Cao: Get To Know The Rising Star Behind The Latest Issue Of StarCentral Kids!

Photo Credit: Dave Choo

At just 11 years old, Kathy Cao is already capturing attention as one of Australia’s most inspiring young models. With natural poise, confidence and a growing list of accomplishments, Kathy is making waves in the world of fashion and modelling. Yet there is far more to this remark.

At just 11 years old, Kathy Cao is already capturing attention as one of Australia’s most inspiring young models. With natural poise, confidence and a growing list of accomplishments, Kathy is making waves in the world of fashion and modelling. Yet there is far more to this remarkable young talent than her presence on the runway. Kathy represents kindness, compassion, and a genuine desire to make a positive difference in others’ lives.

As a young multicultural model and Charity Queen, Kathy is using her growing platform to champion inclusion, service and the importance of giving back. With a natural flair for the camera and a confidence that belies her years, Kathy is proving that passion and determination can take young people a long way. However, her story extends well beyond fashion, photoshoots and the catwalk.

Photo Credit: Victor Hawk

Kathy is deeply committed to supporting her community. She actively volunteers in support of United for Human Rights and regularly brings joy to young patients at Westmead Children’s Hospital through visits and charitable donations. She also participates in fundraising initiatives supporting Schools for the Future, the Universal Peace Federation and community programs led by MP Tri Vo, State Member for Cabramatta.

For Kathy, giving back is not simply an occasional activity. It is an important part of who she is. She dreams of helping people and animals in need and believes that even the smallest act of kindness can create a lasting impact. Her genuine appreciation for those who help others is reflected in her simple but heartfelt words: “To all those people who help others, I just want to say — I appreciate it.”

That compassion extends naturally to her family, friends and even complete strangers. Kathy understands that kindness does not always have to come in the form of a grand gesture. Sometimes, it can be found in a smile, a conversation, an encouraging word or simply taking the time to make someone feel valued.

One of Kathy’s favourite places to connect with people is her grandmother’s shop, where she enjoys meeting individuals from all walks of life. While some customers may offer tips, Kathy values their kindness and generosity of spirit far more than anything else. It is a small insight into the values that are shaping this young star — humility, gratitude and compassion.able young talent than her presence on the runway. Kathy represents kindness, compassion and a genuine desire to make a positive difference in the lives of others.

Photo Credit: Victor Hawk

As a young multicultural model and Charity Queen, Kathy is using her growing platform to champion inclusion, service and the importance of giving back. With a natural flair for the camera and a confidence that belies her years, Kathy is proving that passion and determination can take young people a long way. However, her story extends well beyond fashion, photoshoots and the catwalk.

Kathy is deeply committed to supporting her community. She actively volunteers in support of United for Human Rights and regularly brings joy to young patients at Westmead Children’s Hospital through visits and charitable donations. She also participates in fundraising initiatives supporting Schools for the Future, the Universal Peace Federation and community programs led by MP Tri Vo, State Member for Cabramatta.

For Kathy, giving back is not simply an occasional activity. It is an important part of who she is. She dreams of helping people and animals in need and believes that even the smallest act of kindness can create a lasting impact. Her genuine appreciation for those who help others is reflected in her simple but heartfelt words: “To all those people who help others, I just want to say — I appreciate it.”

Photo Credit: Victor Hawk

That compassion extends naturally to her family, friends and even complete strangers. Kathy understands that kindness does not always have to come in the form of a grand gesture. Sometimes, it can be found in a smile, a conversation, an encouraging word or simply taking the time to make someone feel valued.

One of Kathy’s favourite places to connect with people is her grandmother’s shop, where she enjoys meeting individuals from all walks of life. While some customers may offer tips, Kathy values their kindness and generosity of spirit far more than anything else. It is a small insight into the values that are shaping this young star — humility, gratitude and compassion.

From Pageant to Runway: Star of Australia Set to Make Its Sydney Debut This October

Twinkle Toes Pageants presents Star of Australia, a glamorous two-day celebration that gives aspiring models and pageant contestants the chance to take their place on an international-style runway.

Sydney is set to welcome a new fashion and pageantry experience this October as Twinkle Toes Pageants presents Star of Australia, taking place on Saturday, October 17 and Sunday, October 18, 2026, at St Mary’s Band Club, Sydney NSW.

Promising to be more than a traditional pageant, Star of Australia has been billed as “a unique pageant-to-runway experience,” combining the glamour, confidence and presentation of pageantry with the excitement of a professional fashion runway.

At the heart of the event is an opportunity for participants to experience the world of fashion from the inside, inviting aspiring models and pageant hopefuls to “walk the international runway.”

The concept reflects the growing connection between pageantry and the fashion industry, where confidence, stage presence, styling and personal presentation have become just as important as the competition itself.

For participants, Star of Australia is expected to provide an exciting platform to showcase their individuality, build runway confidence, and experience the atmosphere of a major fashion event.

Hosted by Twinkle Toes Pageants, the event celebrates beauty, confidence, individuality, and the dreams of those who aspire to step onto the runway.

With its glamorous presentation and international runway theme, Star of Australia is shaping up to be a standout addition to Sydney’s 2026 pageant and fashion calendar.

Whether you’re an aspiring model looking for your first runway experience or a pageant contestant ready to take your confidence to the next level, Star of Australia is inviting participants to step into the spotlight and discover where the runway could take them.

Star of Australia 2026

📅 Saturday, October 17 & Sunday, October 18, 2026
📍 St Mary’s Band Club, Sydney NSW

For more information, contact Miss Kristina at twinkletoesglitz@hotmail.com.

The runway awaits.

From Sports to Disney: Mini Miss Contestants Dazzle at Sydney’s Best Dressed 2026

Photo Credit: Victor Hawk

Sydney’s Best Dressed 2026 has officially come and gone, and what an incredible celebration of fashion, confidence and young talent it was! Held at Werriwa Theatre at Revesby Workers’ Club, the event brought together some of Sydney’s most stylish emerging models, with one of the biggest highlights being the highly anticipated Mini Miss Model of the Year competition.

Photo Credit: Victor Hawk

Eight talented young contestants took to the stage, each bringing their own unique personality, confidence and sense of style to the competition. Competing across three exciting themes — Sports, Formal and Disney — the girls had the opportunity to showcase their versatility while entertaining the audience with their incredible stage presence.

Photo Credit: Victor Hawk

From glamorous formal gowns to energetic sports-inspired looks and magical Disney-themed outfits, every contestant looked absolutely amazing. Each young model brought something special to the stage, making the competition a memorable highlight of Sydney’s Best Dressed 2026.

Photo Credit: Victor Hawk

A huge shoutout goes to Sunny, Ebony, Amelia, Georgia, Valentina, Virinnia, Zoe and Arabella for their outstanding performances. Their confidence, enthusiasm and dedication were evident throughout the competition, and every single contestant should be incredibly proud of what they achieved.

Photo Credit: Victor Hawk

As the final awards were announced, the excitement inside Werriwa Theatre continued to build. The competition recognised the girls across a range of categories, celebrating their individual strengths and talents.

Virinnia was named Best in Formal Wear, while Arabella took home the award for Best in Sports Wear. Valentina impressed in the Disney-inspired theme and was awarded Best in Theme Wear.

Photo Credit: Victor Hawk

The individual personality and performance awards also recognised some standout moments from the competition. Amelia received Best in Stage Presence, while Georgia was named Best in Personality. Zoe was awarded Rising Star, and Ebony took home Most Promising Model.

Photo Credit: Victor Hawk

The competition then reached its thrilling finale with the announcement of the overall placements. Sunny was crowned Model of the Year 2nd Runner-Up, while Arabella earned the title of Model of the Year 1st Runner-Up.

Photo Credit: Victor Hawk

And then came the moment everyone had been waiting for.

Congratulations to Virinnia, who was crowned the Sydney’s Best Dressed 2026 Mini Miss Model of the Year Grand Winner!

Her outstanding performance across all three themes, combined with her confidence and stage presence, earned her the coveted crown.

Photo Credit: Dave Choo

As part of her exciting journey following the competition, Virinnia will also be gracing the cover of StarCentral Kids magazine shortly, marking another fantastic milestone for the young star.

Congratulations once again to Virinnia and to every one of the Mini Miss contestants. Sydney’s Best Dressed 2026 proved that the future of fashion and modelling is looking incredibly bright!

StarCentral Kids Movie Review: Moana: Is Disney’s Live-Action Adventure Worth the Voyage?

Editorial credit: ROBERTCOOPER / Shutterstock.com

Get ready to sail across the ocean with Moana, Maui and a whole lot of Disney magic!

Remember Moana, the animated Disney movie with the amazing songs, beautiful ocean adventures and a brave girl who sets off on an incredible journey?

Well, Moana is back — this time in live action!

The new Moana brings the much-loved animated story to life with real actors, spectacular locations and some seriously impressive visual effects. If you’ve seen the original, you’ll recognise lots of your favourite moments, characters and songs.

So, is it worth jumping aboard?

Absolutely!

🌺 MEET MOANA

Catherine Laga’aia takes on the role of Moana, a brave young girl who loves her island and feels a special connection to the ocean.

Just like in the animated movie, Moana isn’t waiting for someone else to solve her problems. She’s determined to save her people and discover who she really is.

Her adventure takes her far across the ocean, where she meets the funny and sometimes very annoying demigod Maui.

Together, they face dangerous challenges, discover amazing places and learn that being brave doesn’t mean you’re never scared — it means you keep going even when things get difficult.

That’s one of the best things about Moana.

She’s a hero who doesn’t need a magic wand or a prince.

She simply believes she can make a difference.

💪 MAUI IS BACK!

And yes — Dwayne Johnson is back as Maui!

Johnson originally provided Maui’s voice in the animated movie, so seeing him return to the role makes perfect sense.

Maui is still funny, confident and just a tiny bit full of himself.

His famous song “You’re Welcome” is back too, so prepare to get it stuck in your head all over again!

Maui and Moana make a great team because they’re very different. Moana is determined and thoughtful, while Maui is loud, cheeky and convinced that he’s the greatest person who has ever lived.

Their friendship is one of the most entertaining parts of the movie.

🌊 THE OCEAN LOOKS AMAZING!

If there’s one thing you’re going to notice immediately, it’s the ocean.

Wow!

The water looks incredible, and the beautiful islands, beaches and forests make the movie feel like a giant adventure postcard.

The visual effects are fantastic, especially when Moana is travelling across the ocean or facing enormous challenges.

Te Fiti and Te Kā also look spectacular, bringing some of the animated movie’s biggest moments into the real world.

It’s definitely the sort of movie that looks best on a big cinema screen.

🎵 GET READY TO SING!

One of the best things about Moana is that the songs are back.

That means you can sing along to favourites such as:

“How Far I’ll Go”

“You’re Welcome”

And plenty of other songs from the original movie.

If you’ve watched the animated version a million times, you might find yourself singing along before the characters even start!

And don’t worry if you haven’t seen the original — the songs and story are easy to enjoy on their own.

🤔 IS IT EXACTLY THE SAME?

Well… pretty much!

The live-action Moana follows the animated movie very closely.

You’ll recognise many of the same scenes, jokes, songs and adventures.

Some people might wish there were more brand-new surprises, but there’s something nice about seeing a favourite story brought to life in a different way.

It’s a little like opening your favourite book and discovering that the characters have suddenly jumped off the pages!

⭐ OUR VERDICT

Moana is colourful, exciting, funny and packed with adventure.

The story still has plenty of heart, and Moana remains a fantastic role model for young audiences. She’s brave, curious, kind and determined to do what’s right.

The biggest question is whether you need to watch this version if you’ve already seen the animated movie.

The answer?

You don’t have to — but it’s certainly fun!

If you loved the original Moana, you’ll probably enjoy seeing the characters and songs brought to life.

And if you’re discovering Moana for the first time, get ready for a fantastic adventure across the sea.

So grab your popcorn, get comfortable and prepare to set sail.

The ocean is calling! 🌊

⭐ RATING: 4 OUT OF 5 STARS ⭐

BEST BITS: 🌊 Amazing ocean scenes • 🎵 Catchy songs • 💪 Brave Moana • 😂 Funny Maui • 🌺 Beautiful island adventures

OUR TIP: If you know all the songs already, try not to sing louder than everyone else in the cinema!

MOANA’S BIG LESSON: Being brave doesn’t mean you’re never afraid. It means believing in yourself and keeping going.

Lights, Runway, Crowns. . . Get Ready for an Amazing Night This August!

Get ready for a fabulous evening filled with sparkling fashion, beautiful gowns, exciting runway moments, and glittering crowns!

On Sunday, 30 August 2026, something very special is happening at Revesby Workers’ Club — House of Catherine – Premiere Runway is joining the exciting National Miss Australia Finalist 2026 – Coronation Night for a spectacular celebration of fashion and pageantry!

Lights, Camera, Fashion!

First, the runway will come alive with House of Catherine – Premiere Runway, featuring special guest models showcasing stunning fashion looks.

Imagine bright runway lights, glamorous outfits, confident models and plenty of sparkle!  The models will strut down the runway and show everyone how fashion can be a fun way to express creativity and personality.

It will be a wonderful opportunity to see fashion up close and discover what happens behind the scenes of a glamorous runway show.

Who Will Wear the Crowns?

Then comes the exciting Coronation Night!

The talented finalists of National Miss Australia 2026 will take the stage as they compete for the chance to become Australia’s next titleholders.

The winners will have the amazing opportunity to represent Australia in prestigious international competitions, including:

Miss Earth Australia
Miss Eco Australia
Miss International Australia

But being a pageant queen isn’t just about wearing a beautiful crown!

Today’s pageant queens can be role models who use their voices to help others, support important causes, inspire young people and make a positive difference in their communities.

More Than Just Crowns

The evening is all about celebrating confidence, kindness, creativity and believing in yourself.

From the models walking the runway to the finalists stepping onto the stage, everyone will have a chance to shine.

And who knows? Watching an exciting fashion and pageant event like this might even inspire the next generation of models, designers, performers or pageant queens!

Don’t Miss the Magic!

If you love fashion, crowns, glamour and exciting performances, this is an evening you won’t want to miss.

👑 CORONATION NIGHT
📅 Sunday, 30 August 2026
📍 Revesby Workers’ Club
✨ In collaboration with House of Catherine – Premiere Runway

Get ready for an evening of fashion, friendship, confidence and crowns!

Because sometimes, the biggest dreams begin with one little step onto the runway.

Only 2 Days to Go Until Eight Little Stars Light Up the Runway at Sydney’s Best Dressed 2026

Get ready to cheer, sparkle, and celebrate young talent as Sydney’s Best Dressed Mini Miss Model of the Year competition makes its exciting return in 2026!

As part of Sydney’s Best Dressed 2026 – International Fashion Weekend, eight amazing young contestants will step onto the runway to showcase their confidence, creativity, and personality in a special celebration designed to inspire the next generation of young stars.

The competition will feature talented young models including Sunny, Ebony, Amelia, Georgia, Valentina, Virinnia, Zoe, and Arabella, who will each bring their own unique style, energy, and dreams to the stage.

More than just a modelling competition, Mini Miss Model of the Year is about encouraging children to believe in themselves, develop confidence, express their creativity, and celebrate what makes them special. Each young contestant represents courage, determination, and the joy of pursuing a dream.

The exciting competition will be held on Saturday, August 8, 2026, at Werriwa Theatre, Revesby Workers’ Club, as part of a spectacular afternoon celebrating fashion, entertainment, culture, and community.

Sydney’s Best Dressed 2026 will bring together young models, designers, performers, families, community leaders, and creatives from across Australia for an unforgettable event celebrating diversity and talent. The event highlights the importance of giving young people opportunities to shine while creating memories they will treasure.

Audiences can look forward to seeing the Mini Miss contestants take the runway with confidence as they showcase their personalities, stage presence, and love for fashion. With families, friends, and supporters cheering them on, the young stars will experience the excitement of being part of a professional fashion event.

The competition is also a wonderful opportunity for children from different backgrounds to connect, make new friendships, and celebrate Australia’s multicultural community.

Alongside the Mini Miss Model of the Year competition, guests will enjoy designer showcases, entertainment performances, and inspiring presentations featuring some of Australia’s emerging talents and creative voices.

The countdown is on for these eight little stars as they prepare to light up the runway at Sydney’s Best Dressed 2026 – International Fashion Weekend.

Event Details:
🌟 Event: Sydney’s Best Dressed 2026 – International Fashion Weekend
🌟 Feature Competition: Mini Miss Model of the Year
🌟 Date: Saturday, August 8, 2026
🌟 Venue: Werriwa Theatre, Revesby Workers’ Club
🌟 Doors Open: 1:30 pm
🌟 Show Starts: 2:30 pm

Tickets are available for $85 General Admission and $110 VIP.

For bookings and enquiries, contact Maryrose Salubre on 0423 744 420.

Join us as we celebrate the next generation of young fashion stars and watch eight incredible girls take their first steps towards the runway of their dreams!

Spotlight On Ellory Grace: A Teen Star Inspiring the Next Generation

Photo Credit: @jzphotography_official

At an age when many teenagers are still discovering their passions, Ellory Grace has already built an impressive career across fashion, entertainment, music, and writing. With confidence, creativity, and a passion for making a difference, she’s proving that young people can dream big while staying true to themselves.

Ellory first captured audiences’ attention with her memorable role as the iconic “Lucerne Milk Girl,” and since then, her career has continued to soar. She has appeared in some of the world’s leading fashion publications, including ELLE, Harper’s Bazaar, and Glamour, and has walked the runway at prestigious fashion weeks in Paris, Milan, and New York.

Her talent has also attracted some of the biggest names in fashion and lifestyle. Over the years, Ellory has worked with internationally recognised brands such as Gap, Levi’s, Skechers, Joyfolie, Pottery Barn Kids, and Forever 21, showcasing her versatility both in front of the camera and on the catwalk.

But modelling is only one part of her story. Ellory is now expanding her career into acting and music, with several exciting projects scheduled for release in 2026. As a songwriter and author, she continues to explore new creative outlets while encouraging other young people to express themselves fearlessly.

Away from the spotlight, Ellory is equally passionate about giving back to the community. She actively supports causes including animal rescue, youth empowerment, and mental health awareness. She also co-sponsors a Holiday Toy Drive benefiting Toys for Tots in Los Angeles, helping provide gifts for children in need during the festive season. Her dedication to community service has earned her the prestigious U.S. Presidential Service Award twice, recognising her commitment to helping others.

With talent, kindness, and determination leading the way, Ellory Grace is a shining example that success is about more than fame—it’s about making a positive impact.

StarCentral Kids recently had the opportunity to sit down with Ellory Grace for an exclusive interview, where she shared insights into her career, creative passions, and advice for young dreamers. Here’s what went down:

1. You’ve built an impressive career across modelling, acting, songwriting, and writing — how do you balance all these creative paths while still being a teenager?

I’ve always been the kind of person who gets stuck on one thought longer than everyone else. Most people move on, but I’m still thinking about it. That’s usually how my songs start. Sometimes it’s one sentence in my Notes app. Sometimes it’s a question I can’t stop coming back to. I never really know where it’ll end up. One day I’m sitting in class, the next I’m in a recording session in LA, and somewhere in between, a song just kind of appears. I guess that’s just become my normal.

Photo Credit: Josh Moreland

2. From walking at Paris, Milan, and New York Fashion Weeks to working with global brands like Levi’s and Gap, what has been your most defining career moment so far?

Walking those runways and working with those brands was such a cool experience, especially because I got to do it starting from such a young age. Looking back, I don’t think I realized at the time how much those experiences were shaping me. For a long time, I was helping bring other people’s ideas to life. Music feels different because it’s the first time people are getting to know me. I think that’s what makes this chapter so exciting.

3. You first became widely recognized as the “Lucerne Milk Girl” — how do you reflect on that early role now that you’ve evolved into a multi-hyphenate creative?

It always makes me smile because I was so little that I had no idea people would still remember it years later. To me, it was just a really fun day on set. Looking back now, it’s funny to think that something that felt so ordinary at the time became something people still remember from my childhood.

4. Many teens struggle to balance identity and public image — how do you stay grounded and authentic in such a fast-paced industry?

I think it’s really easy to feel like you know someone from social media, but it’s only a tiny part of who they are. I’m still figuring out who I am, just like every other 17-year-old. The only difference is that some of that happens where other people can see it. My family and friends have known me long before any of this, so they remind me to be the same person I’ve always been, not the person people expect me to be.

Photo Credit: [from Ellory’s personal collection]

5. You’ve been featured in major publications like ELLE, Harper’s Bazaar, and Glamour — what do you think sets your story apart in the fashion and entertainment world?

I’ve been lucky enough to grow up in a lot of different creative worlds, but I think the one thing that’s always stayed the same is that I notice little moments other people might not think twice about. I’ll hear one sentence or notice something small, and somehow it sticks with me. I don’t always know why at the time, but looking back, those are usually the moments that stay with me the longest.

6. You’re also developing projects in acting and music for 2026 — what can you share about the direction you’re taking creatively, and what excites you most about this next chapter?

I think what excites me most is that I still don’t know what my favorite story will be. It could be a song, it could be a character, or it could be something I haven’t even imagined yet. I hope it surprises me.

Photo Credit: [from Ellory’s personal collection]

7. Philanthropy plays a major role in your life, from youth empowerment to animal rescue and the Toys for Tots holiday drive — what drives your passion for giving back?

I’ve always noticed the things people don’t always see. Sometimes it’s the person who gets overlooked or someone who says they’re fine, but you can tell they’re really not. You never really know what someone is carrying, and I think that’s probably why giving back has always mattered so much to me. If I can make one person feel a little less alone or leave their day a little better than I found it, then I think that’s a pretty good day.

8. As a two-time recipient of the U.S. Presidential Service Award, what do service and impact mean to you personally beyond recognition or awards?

Receiving those awards was really special, and I’m so grateful for them. But to me, they aren’t a reminder of what I’ve done; they’re a reminder of the kind of person I want to keep being. I think that’s something I’ll always be prouder of than any award.