hi this is my first ever post as ive just joined, im a nurse and in full throw of permanent application to go to Sydney next year!
I visited Sydney over xmas n new year past, a few recommendations for you...
as already advised, I agree lunch at the opera house area overlooking the harbour to see the bridge etc is fab
ferry to manly beach, also good to get spruced up and have drinks at the bars at manly harbour, sundays are especially popular
visit the sky tower, we had evening meal up there, amazing views, must be done
visit the fish market, and eat there
ferry or water taxi over to watsons bay, great little beaches and view of Sydney
visit hyde park and the war memoriam
the botanical gardens near the opera house
palm beach where home and away is filmed is worth a day out
I recommend you invest in a Sydney or east coast book, I bought one from whsmiths and researched before we went, and couldn't have done without it
good luck hope you have a fab time