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Macquarie Centre

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Can you imagine a shopping mall with an Olympic-sized ice rink? Well, here at Macquarie Centre, that’s exactly what you’ll find. Macquarie Centre has been a landmark in Macquarie Park, right across from Macquarie University, since it opened on November 17, 1981. It wasn’t always smooth sailing for Macquarie Centre. Back in the 1960s, two retail giants, Grace Bros. and David Jones, had their eyes on this area. Grace Bros. envisioned a $12 million shopping centre on this very spot. David Jones planned their own “Garden City” just down the road. A battle of proposals ensued, with Grace Bros. ultimately winning the approval of the State Government. Construction began in 1979, with AMP joining the project. Industrial disputes and rising costs delayed the opening, impacting the small retailers who had eagerly awaited the launch. Finally, in 1981, Premier Neville Wran officially opened Macquarie Centre. The original Macquarie Centre boasted an ice rink, Grace Bros. (which later became Myer), Big W, Target, Woolworths, and 130 specialty stores. Its unique “incline mall” design, spiraling around a sundial water fountain, set it apart. Over the years, Macquarie Centre has seen numerous changes. Franklins came and went. The central “Rain Forest” atrium got a makeover. A Greater Union multiplex cinema (now Event Cinemas) opened on the rooftop. The early 2000s brought the ‘Escape’ and ‘Loft’ areas, along with new stores like Borders and an expanded cinema. Fitness First and a relocated JB Hi-Fi followed in 2010. A major $440 million redevelopment in the 2010s brought in David Jones, H&M, Zara, Uniqlo, and Sephora. Macquarie Centre became the largest suburban shopping centre in Sydney. And the ice rink? Despite plans for its demolition, public outcry saved this beloved community hub. Today, Macquarie Centre boasts over 350 stores, with major retailers like David Jones, Myer, and a full-sized Olympic ice rink, still a unique feature among Sydney shopping centres. It remains a bustling hub, a testament to its enduring appeal.

The story of Macquarie Centre in Sydney is just one of many fascinating insights you can discover with Explory. To experience the city beyond its surface, you need more than just a map – you need a smart guide that reveals the background, the culture, and the character of each place. With Explory’s city guide, you can dive deeper into Sydney and transform your visit into a unique city tour filled with stories that bring history and everyday life to light. Explory connects you with Sydney in a new way. Our guide doesn’t just show you where to go – it enriches your journey with context and atmosphere. Through carefully designed routes and storytelling, you’ll uncover hidden gems and unexpected highlights that even locals might miss. The audio guide makes the city come alive, allowing you to listen while you walk and explore at your own pace. Our city guide is ideal for travelers who want more than sightseeing. Whether your interest is culture, architecture, or local traditions, Explory enables authentic exploration. Each city tour is flexible and intuitive, helping you experience Sydney with freedom while still being guided by expert knowledge. By combining narrative, navigation, and discovery, Explory ensures your trip becomes an adventure filled with hidden gems and lasting impressions. Take the next step and download the Explory App today. Inside, you’ll find over 300 cities and more than 500,000 POIs and stories to explore. Whether you’re searching for a reliable guide, want to try an immersive audio guide, or plan a memorable city tour, Explory is your all-in-one companion. Begin your journey now and uncover the true essence of Sydney – only with Explory.

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