Australia has plenty of arts and culture Then there are the theatres. Sydney Opera House seems to float on the sparkling harbour. The building is a performing arts complex with a concert hall, theatre for opera and ballet, and adaptable auditoria for drama and experimental work. A glass of bubbly in the interval, while looking at the ferries bustling in the harbour, makes the evening special. One of the companies that performs at the Opera House is the Bell Shakespeare Company, founded by John Bell, who has a lifelong passion for Shakespeare and spent some years in Britain as a young actor. The company's productions bring a fresh approach to the Bard's plays. Another of my favourite theatres is the Ensemble in the northern suburb of Kirribilli. Like the Opera House, the Ensemble is on the harbour, making a visit even more appealing. This small theatre puts on classics and new drama. Plays by British dramatists are sometimes featured, including those by Alan Ayckbourn. Another popular playwright is David Williamson - Ayckbourn's Australian counterpart - who casts an ironic eye on middle-class suburbia. Some years ago I heard of an exhibition near Sydney's Bondi Beach. The coastal path leading from Bondi round the cliffs is a spectacular walk at any time. Every year in November it is transformed into an artspace for Sculpture By The Sea. All along the route - on the rocks, in the cliffs, even in the sea - are sculptures of all types, many made from recycled materials. In 2011 it attracted some half a million visitors over 18 days. One of the things I notice is that art is not considered an elitist interest here, but something for everyone. I enjoy watching people posing for photos with the sculptures and hearing discussions about the meaning of pieces. Another annual event is the Archibald Prize - a competition and exhibition of portraits at Sydney's Art Gallery. Such is its popularity, it's best to go early or late. The Bald Archy is a spoof of the Archibald - an opportunity for artists to mock politicians, celebrities and others in the public eye. These satirical portraits are always entertaining and typify Australian irreverence. Although visitors can vote for their favourite work, the competition is judged by a cockatoo named Maude. Among the photographic work on display, the Sydney Morning Herald's Press Photography Exhibition draws crowds every year. Pictures from Britain's Wildlife Photographer of the Year can be seen at the museum and photos from the Garden Photographer of the Year in the botanic gardens. During this month the Festival of Sydney attracts international as well as Australian performers and includes outdoor concerts, theatre and exhibitions. While the hot weather means more time at the beach, there's no need to compromise on culture.