ydney has long been crowned the city of the big and bold, but we’ve recently begun to notice a subtle change. There is an array of new influences seeping into the city and we’re seeing Sydney gradually shift its focus, taking cues from foreign counterparts in Europe, New York and maybe even some closer to home in Melbourne along the way.

Once it was all about big vistas and sweeping harbour panoramas – and yes, they’ve still got that – but Sydney has turned happily inward and is reviving the art of celebrating the city’s heritage. We’re seeing Sydney embrace its smaller spaces – the little, the hidden and the forgotten – and rightfully cementing its place as one of the world’s most colourful and liveable cities.

While many of us have long considered Melbourne to be Australia’s cultural capital, Sydney has always had a strong seam of designers, artists, artisans, chefs and restaurateurs in its wings. But over the last 12 months or so, we’ve been noticing a change in the energy in Sydney. Something is happening up there and the city is attracting our attention like never before.

In line with motivation that drove the launch of Broadsheet in Melbourne, we think it’s time to take on a new challenge – one with great promise. So it’s with a great deal of excitement that we launch Broadsheet Sydney today.

We’re looking forward to covering and documenting this new energy and getting involved with this dynamic city.

For those of you who spend time in Sydney – and to encourage those of you who have left it too long – head over to broadsheet.com.au/sydney and start exploring.

Nick Shelton – Publisher