Deb Renaud: Sydney's Storyteller

At high school, I opted not to do history. I was daunted by dates, convinced I’d forget them and certain I’d be bored by them. It wasn’t until I left school that I discovered history wasn’t about remembering dates. It was about people, what they did, why they did it, and what happened as a result. That’s when my love of history emerged.

That love eventually led me into Sydney’s cultural sector, where I spent two decades working at the Art Gallery of NSW and the Powerhouse Museum. It gave me a strong sense of the importance of keeping the heritage fires burning through storytelling, visually and orally.

Studying Guiding was the best and most satisfying move of my career. It was when I really came into my own. I could now bring history to life through the people and characters who shaped it, in my own personal way.

Why choose Deb's tour?

A career built around history and stories: For much of my working life, I’ve been surrounded by history, culture and stories. I delight in bringing that experience from Sydney's cultural sector to the streets of the city I call home.

Small groups, big difference: I keep my tours small because I want to get to know the people I’m walking with. There’s time to stop, look, ask questions, share a laugh and, at the end, sit down together over a coffee and a treat. It feels more like exploring Sydney together than being part of a crowd.

Leave seeing Sydney a little differently: My aim isn’t to fill your head with dates and facts and send you on your way. I want you to leave with a better understanding of the people who shaped this city; their agonies, their ecstasies, and spectacular wins and fails.

I love what I do and apparently I'm good at it: I am a member of the Institute of Australian Tour Guides and 2026 recipient of their Outstanding Tour Guiding Award.

Follow @deb_renaud on Instagram to see what drives my love for this city.

Deb's Sydney Cove

Walk & Talk

I believe true discovery happens at walking pace, in small groups, allowing for genuine connection with both the guide and the hidden narratives of the city. No rush, just rich stories.

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Connect directly with Deb to plan your intimate walking tour and uncover the harbour's rich heritage.