[category]
[title]
We can’t believe it either, but we’re officially in October – which means summer is just about ready to burst onto the scene. Along with jasmine-scented streets, jacaranda blooms and the first truly warm days of the season, one of the best things about almost summer in Melbourne is daylight saving.
And good news for post-work barbecue fiends: it starts this weekend. From Sunday, October 4, Melbourne’s evenings are about to get a whole lot lighter. Here’s what you need to know.
When does daylight saving start in Victoria?
Daylight saving begins on the first Sunday in October, which this year falls on Sunday, October 4. Yep, the same day as the NRL Grand Final. At 2am, our clocks will jump forward to 3am, meaning we lose an hour overnight but gain more glorious evening light. Post-work walks, sunset drinks, beach trips and rooftop dinners in the sunshine – we’re coming for you.
Do we lose or gain an hour with daylight saving?
The sad news is, we lose an hour in bed. When the clocks skip from 2am to 3am on Sunday, we lose an hour of sleep – but in exchange, we get months of longer, light-filled evenings.
Do I turn the clock back or forward in Victoria this weekend?
Forward. Your phone should do it automatically, but analogue clocks will need a little manual intervention.
What are the best things to do once daylight saving starts in Melbourne?
Where do we begin? Once the evenings start drawing out, there’s finally time to make the most of Melbourne after work. Go for a wander through the Royal Botanic Gardens, cycle along the Yarra, head down to St Kilda for a sunset dip or settle in for dinner and drinks at one of the city’s best rooftop bars. And if the warmer weather has you itching to get out of the city, there are a whole heap of next-level day trips from Melbourne to fill those newly extended weekends.
Need immediate activity inspo? Our guide to what’s on in Melbourne this weekend should help.