Sydney Weekender is celebrating 30 years on air on Sunday at 5.30 pm on Seven and 7plus.
To mark the special occasion, host Sam Mac will throw back a cold one with prime minister Anthony Albanese.
In a Sydney Weekender exclusive, Mac joins the PM at some of his favourite haunts in Sydney’s Inner West, including the Marrickville District Lawn Tennis Club and Corinthian Rotisserie Restaurant.
The milestone episode also sees Karen Ledbury visit Sydney’s sparkling new cultural hub, the Sydney Modern at the Art Gallery of New South Wales; Lizzy Lovette climbs the Sydney Harbour Bridge for a stunning Indigenous walk experience; and Sally Stanton lunches with Vietnamese–Australian chef and restaurateur Luke Nguyen at his restaurant in the heart of Sydney’s Royal Botanic Gardens.
Marking the 30th anniversary, Sydney Weekender executive producer Jenny Forsyth said: “The engaging personalities in front of the camera and our passionate storytellers behind the camera have made Sydney Weekender a much-loved part of everybody’s weekend for the past 30 years and I wish to thank everyone who has been a part of the show’s journey and unrivalled success.
“We look forward to bringing you more spectacular locations, exciting activities, hot deals, delicious eating out inspiration and the best of NSW and beyond, for many years to come.”
Mac, whose real name is Sam McMillan, was named host of Sydney Weekender earlier this year.
See also: Seven names Sam Mac as the new host Sydney Weekender
Mac, who is also the weather presenter on Sunrise, said of his new role: “Sydney Weekender is an institution. I’m absolutely thrilled to have an opportunity to play my small part in this incredible show.
“It’s such an iconic show with an extremely passionate fan base, who love discovering the hottest spots to visit in our state. I can’t wait to take my partner Bec and our baby Margot on some of these wild adventures.
“I’ve watched Sydney Weekender on a Sunday arvo for many years, so it’s quite surreal to think I’m about to be on it! I’m ready to get out exploring our state, discovering the next hot holiday spot and especially excited about the characters I’ll meet on my travels. Bring it on!,” he said.
Mac replaces Matt Shirvington, who is focussing on his growing 7NEWS and 7SPORT commitments this year.
Prior to Shirvington, veteran TV host Mike Whitney was the host of the life style program. He retired in 2022 after 27 years.
Sydney Weekender airs on Sundays at 5.30pm on Seven and 7plus
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Top image: Sam Mac