When was the last time you went on a tour? I reckon it was probably when you were last overseas (I went on a food tour in Osaka just last week! Sorry for the flex). But have you ever done one in Sydney? A few years ago, I was lucky enough to join Justin Steele, founder of Local Sauce Tours, on one of his small-group experiences. And boy, was it good. Over a couple of hours, we delved into the rich and layered history of Chinatown, learning about the stories and people behind this significant – and seriously delicious – pocket of Sydney. And we ate. A lot. Think: plump, soupy and aromatic dumplings, fish balls doused in curry sauce, and a rocking Chinese-style pork burger with lashings of chilli oil.
In 2018, Steele founded Local Sauce Tours to bring together locals and tourists alike to discover Sydney from a fresh perspective. As he puts it: “It’s not about being a better tourist in your city, but about being a better local.” He and his team now offer a range of tours across Sydney, spanning food walks, secret bar crawls, street art explorations, cultural history tours and dining experiences with refugee chefs.
Now, Steele has been recognised for his efforts, winning gold at the inaugural NSW Top Tour Guide Awards, delivered by the NSW Tourism Association and held at Sydney Harbour this month. The awards celebrate individuals who bring destinations to life through storytelling, knowledge and unforgettable visitor experiences.
“The best tours aren’t just informative – they make people feel something,” says Steele. “Guests want to connect with a place, with each other and with a great guide. In a world missing spontaneity and real conversation, that human connection is everything.”
“This award is a timely reminder of the critical role guides play in shaping how NSW is experienced by international and domestic guests. So often, the focus is on attractions, landmarks or restaurants – but it’s the tour guides who welcome visitors, share stories and create those unforgettable moments,” he adds.
As the winner, Steele will now go on to represent NSW at the national Top Tour Guide Awards in Canberra later this year.
In short: It may be time to become a tourist in your own backyard. You can find out more and book a Local Sauce Tour here.
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