PHIVE

JUNE LONG WEEKEND – CHANGES TO HOURS AT PHIVE

PHIVE and Parramatta Library at PHIVE will be closed on Monday 8 June for the King’s Birthday public holiday.

We’ll be open at our regular hours on all other days.

Plan your visit: https://cityofparramatta.nsw.gov.au/phive/visiting-phive 👈

Visiting PHIVE? 

Step outside and you’ll find a range of local coffee and sweet treat options just moments away, across Parramatta Square and Centenary Square. ☕️

From your morning coffee to an afternoon pick‑me‑up, these nearby spots are all a short walk from PHIVE’s doors:
 
• Lobby Espresso Bar by Gypsy ()
• The Naked Duck ()
• Threefold Pastry ()
• Bourke Street Bakery ()

Support local and enjoy what Parramatta has to offer, right on PHIVE’s doorstep.

How do you come to terms with family history - and the truths we inherit?

Join acclaimed artist and writer Omar Musa for a thoughtful conversation about Fierceland, his award‑winning new novel exploring memory, identity and belonging across generations.

Omar will be joined by writer and poet Sara M. Saleh for an engaging discussion about storytelling, family and place.

📅 Saturday 23 May 2026
🕜 1.30pm - 2.30pm
📍 Parramatta Town Hall
🎟 $10 | Bookings essential

Book now: https://cityofparramatta.nsw.gov.au/phive/events/sydney-writers-festival-omar-musa-fierceland 👈

A story of power, resilience and re‑imagining myth.

Join poet, playwright and visual artist Nikita Gill as she discusses Hekate: The Witch, her vivid new work that re‑centres women from mythology through poetry, history and imagination.

In conversation with Kate Fagan, Nikita will explore the legend behind Hekate and the creative process of retelling ancient stories for today.

📅 Saturday 23 May 2026
🕞 3.30pm - 4.30pm
📍 Parramatta Town Hall
🎟 $10 | Bookings essential

Book now: https://cityofparramatta.nsw.gov.au/phive/events/sydney-writers-festival-nikita-gill-hekate 👈

📚 Storytime with Victor and Sandra Steffensen

Join creative duo Victor and Sandra Steffensen for an engaging storytelling session that invites children to learn about animals, nature and First Nations culture through shared stories and imagination.

Creators of Animals on Country, The Trees and Looking After Country with Fire, Victor and Sandra bring stories to life in a welcoming, interactive experience for young listeners and their families.

🗓 Saturday 23 May
🕚 11am - 11.45am
📍 City of Parramatta Library, PHIVE, 5 Parramatta Square

Recommended for ages 4+

Bookings required, so don't miss out: https://www.swf.org.au/program/festival-2026/animals-on-country-storytime/ 👈

Last Saturday we welcomed our first little movers to tumble, explore and build confidence through play - and there’s still time to join in this term!

From babies finding their balance to preschoolers growing independence, PHIVE's Kinder Gym program supports children aged 6 months to 5 years to move, learn and connect in a safe, welcoming environment, with parents and carers right by their side.

Missed the first session? Spaces are still available across our Saturday classes for Term 2. Come along, join the fun and be part of the journey.

📍 Active Wellness Studios, Level 3, PHIVE, 5 Parramatta Square
🗓 Saturdays until 27 June 2026
👉 Book now: https://cityofparramatta.nsw.gov.au/phive/events/phive-presents-term-2-kinder-gym

Stories of Faith was a beautiful way to conclude the Western Terrace series. Curated by Jumaana Abdu () and Felicity Castagna (), the evening brought together dance, poetry and storytelling to explore how faith, in all its forms, shapes our lives over time.
 
Thank you to everyone who joined us across the series and became part of the Western Terrace community, and to our artists, cultural and community leaders, performers, and those who shared food and conversation. Together, you helped create welcoming spaces for connection and communal meals after each gathering.
 
Western Terrace has been a place to gather, share stories and come together - like an extension of home. Thank you for facing West with us.

Images by Garry Trinh ()

Explore colour, texture and storytelling through textiles with award‑winning artist Nicole Barakat. This welcoming eight‑week workshop at PHIVE invites you to experiment, learn new techniques and create your own artworks in a supportive and inclusive space.

You’ll be guided through a range of textile practices including appliqué, embroidery, beading and fabric manipulation - no previous experience needed. All materials are provided, and you’re welcome to bring along reused fabrics or clothing to give them new life.

🧵 Thursdays, 7 May - 25 June 2026
🕕 6pm - 7.30pm
📍 Level 3, Makers Space, PHIVE
💲 $120 for all 8 sessions ($15 per week)
👤 Ages 18+ | Beginners welcome

Places are limited. For access requirements, please contact [email protected]

Visit the link to book now: https://cityofparramatta.nsw.gov.au/phive/events/phive-presents-term-2-drawing-with-textiles