Travel is a salve to all of life's problems. There's something truly healing about that first dip into a faraway sea, a bite of a food you've never heard of before, or the background hum of a language you can't understand. But sometimes, all it takes is a hotel to have you packing your bags and buckling into your plane seat. There's no better place to find that holiday feeling than in Asia. From the patchwork blue seas of the Komodo Islands to the tranquil jungles of Ubud and into the hawker centres of Singapore, Asia is dotted with spectacular hotels that are worth making the trip for. As a Marriott Bonvoy member, you can access exclusive rates immediately on stays at participating properties (700 of them in Asia alone). Membership is free, so once you've signed up, book with the app and earn points for future stays worldwide. [caption id="attachment_1045361" align="alignnone" width="1920"] TA'AKTANA, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa[/caption] TA'AKTANA, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Labuan Bajo, Indonesia Depending on who you ask, there are anywhere from 16,000 to 18,000 islands in Indonesia. Flores, Bali's quiet neighbour, may just be the most underrated of them all. The town of Labuan Bajo on Flores is the gateway to the Komodo Islands—a patchwork of sparkling blue water, technicolour coral reefs and sacred Komodo dragons. It's quickly becoming Indonesia's best-kept treasure and is only a one-hour flight from Bali. When in town, TA'AKATANA, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa is the place to stay. The resort's over-water villas draw inspiration from Flores' distinctive spider-web style rice paddies, offering epic views that look out over the Komodo Islands. Here, your villa also includes a luxurious butler service. Inspired by the mystical caves of Rangko and Batu Cermin, Di'a Spa is where hot tubs and cold plunge pools overlook the turquoise Flores Sea, offering not just relaxation but also renewal. It's your chance for a soulful pause in one of Indonesia's most captivating settings. [caption id="attachment_1045362" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The Athenee Hotel, A Luxury Collection Hotel[/caption] The Athenee Hotel, A Luxury Collection Hotel, Bangkok, Thailand Bangkok is a direct flight away from most Australian capitals, but the second your feet hit the buzzing streets, you feel a world away. You arrive to tropical warmth, towering, gilded temples, and fragrant, heaped bowls of street food passing by on vendors' carts. Not to mention, Bangkok is quickly earning a reputation as one of South East Asia's creative hotspots with galleries, bars, endless vintage shopping and local fashion labels popping up across the city. When in town, our editors check into The Athenee Hotel. Here, you're staying on the grounds of Kandhavas, the palace of Princess Valaya Alongkorn, the daughter of King Rama V. The five-star, luxury hotel is also located right in the heart of Bangkok—perfect for a trip spent hitting the city's exceptional shopping malls like Siam Paragon. After a day exploring Bangkok, head back to your hotel to de-stress with a holistic treatment at the Athenee Spa. W Singapore - Sentosa Cove, Singapore Sentosa Island is Singapore's island getaway—yet, you're still connected to the mainland. Singapore's hawker centres, futuristic skyline and unrivalled shopping make it one of the best city breaks going. W Singapore - Sentosa Cove is one of the coolest places to stay when you're in town. The hotel's sleek design and freshly-renovated rooms were born from blending city and sanctuary. The result is a space that channels the tropical microcosm that is Singapore: abundant energy, buzzing atmosphere, and an element of surrealism. While on Sentosa Island, check out Universal Studios, laze your day away at Siloso Beach or Palawan Beach (the southernmost point of continental Asia) or simply unwind in W Singapore's free-form outdoor pools. Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, Ubud, Indonesia Found deep inside the Balinese jungle, on the shores of the Ayung River, sits Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve property. Ubud, a green, spiritual enclave in Bali, is often overlooked in favour of beach clubs. But, check into Mandapa — within an Indigenous village — and you'll soon realise that this is the best way to experience Bali. You'll find 35 suites, 25 pool villas and four unique dining concepts dotted across the resort's lush grounds. The best part, though, is their restorative spa and Disconnect to Reconnect Wellness Journey Program. You'll receive a personalised wellbeing and health program tailored just for you. The experience is guided by three pillars: wellness, gastronomy, and sustainability. For those seeking a stay that truly renews, this is your sanctuary. [caption id="attachment_1043648" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Juliana Barquero[/caption] Aloft Osaka Dojima, Japan If you're anything like us, your social feeds are currently filled with friends living it up in Japan. And, with ski season approaching, your jealousy is about to get worse. If you've always wanted to go, let this be your sign to book that trip now. The vibrant, technicoloured streetscapes of Osaka's litter social feeds everywhere — especially with the city's vintage designer shopping. But they're really just the backdrop of Aloft Osaka Dojima. The sleek, design-focused hotel is for the traveller who likes being in the heart of the city. Stay here, and you're never more than a short walk from Osaka's viral food spots and expansive train network. Take a day trip to Kyoto or Nara, stop into Universal Studios or try the world-famous Kobe beef before heading back to base. [caption id="attachment_1051746" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Perhentian Marriott Resort & Spa, Malaysia[/caption] Perhentian Marriott Resort & Spa, Malaysia Think of Malaysia, and chances are your mind rushes to steaming bowls of fragrant laksa, a buzzing Kuala Lumpur and its Petronas Towers at night (or that scene from Entrapment). But, did you know its coastline is dotted with tropical islands and pristine beaches? One of our editors' favourites is the Perhentian Islands on the east coast of Terengganu. It's here, on Perhentian Kecil, that you'll find Perhentian Marriott Resort & Spa. Their private villas are perched on the cliffside with panoramic views out onto the azure shores of the Perhentians, and even come complete with a private pool and luxurious baths. Outside the resort grounds, island hop the day away, swim with turtles and snorkel through pristine coral reefs, then watch the sun slip below the horizon on a sunset cruise. Become a Marriott Bonvoy member (for free) for access to the best rates on the website. Then, download the app to discover a world of unparalleled rewards and earn and redeem points for your next trip with Marriott International's award-winning travel program and marketplace. And, to celebrate the end of 2025, you can even earn 2,025 bonus points when you book if you register at Marriott's website.
Big moments deserve a little something extra — and with American Express Plan It® Instalments, you can make it happen*. Plan It lets you divide your purchase or even your statement balance into three, six or 12 equal monthly instalments — with no interest, just a monthly fee. You can even create multiple plans at once and cancel anytime, so you stay fully in control while building up those sweet rewards points along the way. Even if it's just for a weekend, sometimes the best way to recharge is by checking into a hotel that feels worlds away. Add world-class dining, buzzy rooftop bars or a spa treatment or two, and you've got yourself the ultimate mini-escape. Here are some of our favourite city escapes around the country that tick all the boxes. The Ritz-Carlton, Melbourne Rising high above the Hoddle Grid with sweeping views of the city and beyond, The Ritz-Carlton, Melbourne, is, in more ways than one, the pinnacle of luxury. There are plenty of ways to take in those views, too, whether from your in-room bathtub, the stunning 24-hour infinity pool or hatted fine-diner Atria. Complete the experience with a visit to The Ritz-Carlton Spa, where tranquil spaces and restorative treatments make it easy to forget you're in the middle of the city. Crown Towers It's big, it's bold, it's flashy — and there's simply nothing else quite like it in Melbourne. Inside, you'll find oversized rooms and suites with marble-accented bathrooms, world-class dining at restaurants like Nobu, Rockpool and Silks (not to mention the long-standing Conservatory, still home to one of Melbourne's very best buffets), and one of the city's most renowned spas. Crown might just be Melbourne's ultimate choose-your-own-adventure — as long as you're in the mood for pure indulgence. Jackalope Set among rolling vineyards on the Mornington Peninsula, Jackalope pairs avant-garde design with a deep sense of place. Dine on hyperlocal produce at on-site fine-diner Doot Doot Doot, sip wines surrounded by vineyards, or unwind with a spa treatment that draws on the property's surrounds. It's a one-of-a-kind experience that will stay with you long after you check out, whether it's a romantic weekend or a solo escape. Capella Sydney Behind a heritage sandstone façade in the heart of the CBD, Capella Sydney brings a new level of contemporary luxury to the Harbour City. The nine-storey property features 192 elegant rooms with Frette linen and standalone bathtubs, alongside destination dining at the opulent Brasserie 1930. The indulgence continues at Auriga Spa, where timber-lined interiors, greenery and a considered menu of treatments will help you truly disconnect. The Eve You might be mistaken for thinking the above pool deck is located on a faraway island — but it's actually in the thick of Surry Hills. And it's the cherry on the very top of The Eve, the 102-room hotel set within the expansive Surry Hills Village. Downstairs, the vibrant Wunderlich Lane precinct is home to a curated (and extensive) mix of dining and bars, from vibey rooftop Mexican diner Lottie to the sleek omakase of R by Raita. The options might feel overwhelming, but don't spend too long deciding where to dine — the pool awaits, after all. Sofitel Sydney Wentworth With its mix of 1960s jet-set glamour and contemporary French-inspired luxury, Australia's first-ever five-star hotel continues to set the standard for luxury city stays nearly 50 years after it welcomed its first guests. Following a top-to-bottom $70-million makeover unveiled in 2024, the 436-room hotel now boasts four new dining and bar venues curated by House Made Hospitality, including the expansive terrace lounge Wentworth Bar, Vietnamese-French fine diner Delta Rue and the elegant Bar Tilda. If you like your stays a little gourmet, Sofitel Sydney Wentworth delivers. [caption id="attachment_973394" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The Calile James St, Cieran Murphy[/caption] The Calile, Brisbane There isn't much that hasn't already been said about The Calile, Fortitude Valley's oh-so-stylish resort-style hotel that's twice been named the very best hotel in Oceania by the World's 50 Best. Its 175 rooms and suites combine chic, pared-back interiors with private balconies that overlook the stunning openair pool deck, where poolside cabanas set the scene for weekend lounging at its finest. Beyond the pool, dining options abound — from breezy all-day Greek at Hellenika or punchy contemporary Thai at the impressive sAme sAme — while a curated retail precinct makes for a leisurely shopping experience. If relaxation is on the cards, the Kailo Medispa provides a range of rejuvenating treatments, while the hotel's library offers a serene space to read or work. W Brisbane W Brisbane might just be one of the city's most eye-catching hotels. The design-forward property offers 312 rooms and suites with panoramic views of the Brisbane River and beyond, while the rooftop WET Deck, tranquil AWAY Spa and 24-hour gym are ready and waiting for however you choose to unwind. You won't have to head too far to refuel, either — start with a pre-dinner drink and snack at the sleek Living Room Bar, indulge in caviar bumps and fire-grilled steaks at New York-style brasserie The Lex, and head up to the pool deck for a nightcap overlooking the city skyline. Crystalbrook Vincent With over 500 prints by acclaimed Australian artist Vincent Fantauzzo, Crystalbrook Vincent is a bold, art-infused hotel perched right on the edge of the Brisbane River. This boutique stay fuses sustainability and style with 100-percent waste-free bathrooms and no single-use plastics anywhere on site, while plush king beds and rainforest showers in every room bring the luxe factor. Food-wise, all-day diner Mews offers seasonal menus that champion local produce, buzzy rooftop bar Fiume might just be one of the city's most picturesque spots for a sundowner, while Howard Street Wharves and James Street are but a proverbial stone's throw away. For more information about Amex Plan It, head to the Amex website. A fixed monthly fee and T&Cs apply. *Plan It Terms and Conditions: You can create an Instalment Plan as long as your account is in good standing. We may withdraw this offer, prevent you from creating any new Instalment Plans or cancel any of your existing Instalment Plan(s) at any time if your Card Account is overdue, or if you do not comply with your Card Conditions. The minimum Plan amount is AUD$100. We may also limit the amount that can be transferred to an Instalment Plan. You will be charged a Monthly Plan Fee for each Instalment Plan created. This fee will be charged each month your Instalment Plan is active and will be disclosed to you at the time of creating your Instalment Plan. Each Instalment Plan will begin from the date it is successfully created, as communicated to you in your Online Account. Payment of your first Monthly Instalment will be due in your next payment cycle. You may request to cancel your Instalment Plan(s) at any time through your Online Account or the Amex App. Any billed Monthly Plan Fees will remain payable, but no further Monthly Plan Fees will be billed after cancellation is effective. As cancellation can take 24-48 hours to process ("Processing Time"), you may be charged a further monthly plan fee after cancellation if the Processing Time occurs on your payment date. View the full Plan It ® Instalment Terms and Conditions here. Top image: Jackalope
Tasmania has long been a pilgrimage for nature lovers, cold-weather chasers and anyone who thinks a weekend away should always involve at least one decent bakery. In recent years, it's also become a destination for whisky lovers. Given Australia's tropical to subtropical climate, whisky distilling has often been left to the pros in the Scottish Highlands. There was a brief flirtation with distilling spirits in the cooler climate of Tasmania during the 1800s, before Governor John Franklin outlawed the practice. But in 1992, the Lark family created the first Australian distillery to produce single malt whisky in 154 years, firmly rekindling Tasmania's love affair with the spirit. Now, Tasmania is the home of Australia's new whisky scene, and LARK Distillery is leading the charge. Whether you're heading to Hobart for a laidback long weekend or are island hopping for a while longer, LARK's whisky-fuelled experiences should be added to any itinerary. Here's what you can expect when visiting the home of Tasmania's thriving whisky scene. [caption id="attachment_1046083" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The Still[/caption] The Still, Hobart Located in the heart of the city on Argyle Street, The Still is LARK's modern whisky bar. By day, the sleek yet warm flagship store is used as a retail space and tasting room for travellers wanting to learn more about Tasmania's whisky industry. During the 45-minute tasting experience, guests learn the story of LARK (from the fishing trip that began it all to its latest releases), and can enjoy a curated tasting of LARK's single malt whiskies. Guests will also receive a 10 percent discount on any bottles, so you can enjoy a taste of Tassie once you get home. If gin is more to your taste, The Still also offers a two-hour gin-making masterclass. Guests will receive a first-hand look behind the process of crafting native gin under the guidance of LARK's professors, who have created the award-winning Forty Spotted gin. During the booking, guests can explore the world of botanicals, try a refreshing native gin and tonic, learn about the history of the spirit, and even create their own Tasmanian gin as a souvenir. [caption id="attachment_1049089" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The Still[/caption] Once the sun begins to set, The Still turns into a cocktail lounge and bustling bar. With its cosy booths, elevated food menu, and knowledgeable staff, even those less into whisky will be able to get out of their comfort zones and enjoy the spirit. Whether it's a tasting flight of impressive local whiskies from across the state, or a LARK whisky and soda, it's easy to spend a whole evening lapping up the atmosphere of The Still. You can try your luck at a walk-in or make a reservation to avoid missing out on a bucket list whisky experience. [caption id="attachment_1046084" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Pontville Distillery[/caption] Pontville Distillery Thirty minutes' drive north of The Still, you'll find LARK's Pontville Distillery. Set amongst historical buildings, the Pontville Distillery is Tasmania's only working whisky village and offers visitors the chance to explore how LARK crafts its award-winning spirits. Its production and site tour is the closest you'll get to stepping inside Tasmania's whisky origin story. During the 45-minute tour, guests are guided through the distillery to learn how the spirit is made, as well as discover the secrets behind single malt whisky and the story of LARK's beginnings. Enjoy four tastings along the way, and take in the atmospheric surrounds of the historic estate. The tours run every day at both 12pm and 2pm, so be sure to book in a spot on your next Tasmanian trip. [caption id="attachment_1050645" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Pontville Distillery[/caption] Between the sleek, design-driven interiors of The Still in Hobart and the rustic, historic beauty of Pontville Distillery, LARK's venues offer two quintessentially Tasmanian whisky experiences. Whether you're a tourist on a long weekend or are looking for a local team bonding experience, you'll be planning your next trip before you've polished off your last dram. Book a table for you, your team, family or friends for dinner, drinks or a guided tasting experience at The Still. Book a spot for you, your team, family or friends on a guided whisky tour at LARK's Pontville Distillery. Lead image credit: Lark Distillery
After nearly a decade, Stranger Things is sadly coming to an end. Stranger Things Season 5 will be released on Netflix across three premiere dates, with Volume 1 dropping on Thursday, November 27 (four episodes), Volume 2 dropping on Boxing Day (three episodes), and The Finale streaming on New Year's Day. Each volume is released at midday AEDT. It's no secret that the final series has been a few years in the making. Season 4 premiered in May of 2022, meaning we've waited over three years to find out if the Stranger Things kids can defeat Vecna once and for all. The thrilling sci-fi drama is set in the fictional American town of Hawkins, Indiana. While the group of teenagers battle monsters and travels to alternate dimensions, the 1980s nostalgia of Hawkins (and the show) is hard to miss. To help you ease back into the vintage and sometimes spooky spirit of Stranger Things, we've created a 1980s travel guide. From American diners to regional towns, here are some real-world Aussie places that look straight out of Hawkins. Walhalla, Victoria While Australia's environment and landscapes differ from those of the United States' Midwest region, there are a handful of regional towns that capture the eerie atmosphere of Hawkins. Founded as a gold-mining community in the 1800s, the Victorian town of Walhalla is now home to just 20 permanent residents. Despite its small size, Walhalla is a tourist hotspot, attracting people who want to learn more about Australia's gold mining past. Located 180 kilometres north of Melbourne, Walhalla (which was once one of Australia's richest towns) has reconstructed a number of its heritage buildings — resulting in a tourist town that makes you feel like you've stepped through a time machine. Book a stay at Walhalla's Star Hotel, cycle through the town a lá Stranger Things kids on a bike tour, or, if you fancy something spookier, join the Walhalla Ghost Tour. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Architecture Uprising Australia (@arch_aus) [caption id="attachment_898563" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Valentina's Diner[/caption] Valentina's Diner, Sydney Nothing screams Midwestern town like a plate of diner pancakes. Located in Marrickville, Sydney, Valentina's Diner offers pastel booths (perfect for planning some monster-fighting), as well as an All-American classic menu. From black diner coffee to breakfast sandwiches and American-style cheeseburgers and fries, you'll feel ready to binge-watch the new episodes after your visit. [caption id="attachment_780688" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Evie's Disco Diner[/caption] Evie's Disco Diner, Melbourne Inspired by 1980s New York City, Evie's Disco Diner is your taste of nostalgia pre-Stranger Things watch party. Situated in Fitzroy, Melbourne, Evie's Disco Diner serves American diner dishes (including a number of vegan-friendly options) in a discotheque bar and feels plucked straight from the streets of Hawkins. With a colourful dance floor, bottomless brunch, and drag bingo galore, Evie's Disco Diner is Melbourne's destination for 1980s fun. Book a table with friends to dance to some throwback tracks ("Running Up That Hill", anybody?) before your watch party. [caption id="attachment_902834" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Leonard's House of Love[/caption] Leonard's House of Love, Melbourne Step through the doors of Leonard's House of Love, and you'll find yourself in a dive bar where you could easily spot Hopper sinking a beer post-Demagorgon chase. The South Yarra haunt has a retro feel that's reminiscent of the eighties aesthetics. From wood-panelled walls to neon-lit signs and shag-carpet cosiness, Leonard's House of Love is a time-warp American-inspired dive bar that's perfect for getting into the Stranger Things spirit. [caption id="attachment_1047764" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Mount Victoria via Wirestock[/caption] Mount Victoria, NSW Hawkins may not have mountains, but it does have eerie trails and forests full of secrets. This atmosphere can also be found in the New South Wales village of Mount Victoria. Located in the Blue Mountains, Mount Victoria has a rich history (not dissimilar to Hawkins). While there's no experimental science lab or Upside Down world, there are scenic trail walks and even a vintage independent cinema for some nostalgia. If you're a history buff, be sure to book a trip to Mount Victoria Museum to learn more about local history and maybe even find some town secrets out for yourself. [caption id="attachment_858552" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Stranger Things courtesy of Netflix © 2022[/caption] Fortress, Melbourne and Sydney One central theme of Stranger Things is the board game, Dungeons and Dragons. The closest Australia has to a Hawkins Hellfire Club headquarters is the gaming bar, Fortress. The community hubs feature weekly Dungeons and Dragons meet-ups with a three-hour guided D&D adventure and even a dedicated Dungeon Master. You can join as a group or solo member and play the game that gave Vecna his namesake. [caption id="attachment_1049117" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Yackandandah[/caption] Yackandandah, Victoria With its picture-perfect shopfronts and sleepy-town charm, Yackandandah in Victoria feels like the show's early seasons (you know, before the Upside Down leaked into the real world). The North East Victorian town is surrounded by trees and a high street that feels like the last century (in a quaint way, of course). It's easy to imagine Eleven and co pedalling past the old petrol pumps or heading to the vintage stores for some arcade-perfect outfits. You don't need a portal to the Upside Down to feel like you've stepped into the Stranger Things universe, so make a reservation and book a long weekend trip away before (or while) you binge Stranger Things Season 5. Stream Stranger Things Season 5 only on Netflix from Thursday, November 27, 2025, at 12:00pm AEDT. Lead image credit: Stranger Things Season 5 Netflix
It's been a big year for Brisbane's hospitality scene, with one particular group having a highly successful run of opening new and exciting venues. The French Exit marks the third venue opening in 2025 for the Anyday group, whose stable of beloved restaurants and bars now totals a whopping eight. The French Exit is Anyday group's ode to Paris. A dimly lit, romantic and inviting space, classic French dishes and a standout wine list go a long way to making you forget you just strolled off the street in Brissy. "The French Exit will transport you to a classic Parisian bistrot in the heart of Brisbane CBD. The dishes will have that classic familiarity for those who have travelled to the city but focused through the lens of Brisbane. Expect classic executions of timeless dishes designed to awaken nostalgia and excite the palate," says Anyday Culinary Director, Ben Williamson. This latest opening sees Anyday group's foray into CBD dining, with The French Exit occupying the ground floor of the heritage corner site at 169 Mary Street. Tamsin Johnson, a renowned interior designer, has expertly reimagined the space to evoke feelings of comfort and decadence. "Not only is she a close friend, but she also has an incredible ability to blend elegance with character in a way that perfectly suits the atmosphere of a French bistro. Tamsin has this knack for creating spaces that feel equally timeless and welcoming, with just the right amount of playfulness. Having her involved made the whole process feel collaborative, personal, and a lot of fun, and the result is a space that truly reflects her talent and our shared vision." The kitchen, led by John-Paul Fiechtner and Ryan Carlson, under the direction of Ben Williamson, pays homage to classic French techniques while also allowing space for creativity to flourish. Local and seasonal produce provides the foundations for the menu, which showcases the best of Brisbane's growers, makers, artisans and producers. Images: Parker Blain.
If listening to "Last Christmas" by Wham and watching Love Actually for the 100th time doesn't sound appealing, Australian streaming service Stan is providing viewers with an alternative. If you know you'll have festive fatigue by the time Boxing Day rolls around, the streamer is releasing all eight episodes of the new Australian dark comedy Sunny Nights on December 26. While some streamers have taken to releasing TV series weekly or even splitting seasons into two parts, you won't be held hostage by any cliffhangers while waiting for the next episode with this new show. Dreamt up by Nick Keetch and Ty Freer, the Stan Original series is directed by Trent O'Donnell (Brooklyn Nine-Nine, The Good Place, New Girl, Hacks) and stars Hollywood comedians Will Forte (Four Seasons, Bodkin, Saturday Night Live) and D'Arcy Carden (The Good Place, Nobody Wants This, Barry). For fans of crime shows, Sunny Nights offers a twist on the genre. Forte and Carden play siblings Martin and Vicki Marvin, who move to Australia to start a new spray-tanning business. Additionally, Martin is determined to win back his estranged wife, Joyce (Ra Chapman), who just happens to reside in Sydney. After the Marvins get mixed up in an extortion scam, they get sucked into the city's criminal underworld with their lives on the line. While the two main characters are from the USA, this show is undoubtedly Australian. From crocodiles to the chokehold footy has on our country, there are inside jokes littered throughout the series that Aussies can appreciate. Plus the ensemble cast is made up of some established and emerging local talent, including Rachel House (Heartbreak High, Hunt for the Wilderpeople, Kangaroo), Jessica De Gouw (Dracula, Kath & Kimderella, Arrow), George Mason (Home and Away, My Life Is Murder, The Survivors) and Ra Chapman (Five Bedrooms, Wentworth, Neighbours). The former NFL player Willie Mason also makes his acting debut as Terry Torres, a tough member of Sydney's criminal underworld. It all begs the question: Why aren't we embracing more local content? In an era where we have been constantly fed reboots, sequels and remakes, Sunny Nights is proudly local. Major scenes take place in and around Sydney, dry conversations are had with mortgage brokers, and there's even a Chemist Warehouse-esque pharmacy. So, if you're already dreading the holiday season, Stan Original Sunny Nights is something you keep an eye on. With the absence of cheesy Christmas storylines, this is an antidote to all of the festive films that have likely been clogging up your streaming services. So, grab yourself a plate of Christmas Day leftovers and tune in on Boxing Day to see the Sydney skyline and some Aussie talent instead. It's time to get sucked into the dark world of Sunny Nights. Stream the Stan Original 'Sunny Nights' Boxing Day, only on Stan. Image credit: Supplied
The days are getting longer, after-work swims are back, frangipanis scent the air, and we've officially completed the switch to iced drinks only. That can only mean one thing: summer has arrived. Like clockwork, MILKLAB's Summer Sensations program is back for another year to help us kick our coffee ruts aside with a season-defining new drop of drinks. Each year, the number one plant-based barista milk brand officiates the start of summer with a curated lineup of summer-approved drinks. Each drink has been developed with specialty coffee roasters Golden Brown Coffee to be equal parts delicious and aesthetic. If 2024 was the year of strawberry matcha and adding sparkling water to espressos, yuzu, and cold brew, what's in store for summer 2025? We asked MILKLAB for a sneaky first look at this summer's trending drinks, from matcha to coffee and beyond. Glazed Doughnut Iced Latte Hailey Bieber may have made us temporarily think of skincare when we think of glazed doughnuts, but this summer, that's about to change. Why? Because we're set to see the Glazed Doughnut Latte pop up on cafe menus everywhere and become your new summer sweet treat. Think espresso, white chocolate, and caramel shaken over ice until frothy and served alongside MILKLAB Macadamia on a hot summer's commute. If you've ever wanted to turn a doughnut into a drink, this is absolutely for you. Mango Matcha If matcha has become a part of your daily routine — and your entire personality — you will be thrilled to see the Mango Matcha popping up everywhere this year. Yes, it's time to bid farewell to the 2025 zeitgeist's favourite drink, the humble strawberry matcha. Just like your beloved iced matcha, this one comes with a hefty dose of everyone's favourite summer fruit, mango. Perfectly whisked matcha poured over ice, the right balance of MILKLAB Oat, vanilla, and a punchy layer of mango purée make this drink the perfect way to welcome summer. Who knows, you might even like it better than the strawberry version. Ube Matcha Ube has taken the drinks world by storm in Asia, and now it's Australia's turn. If you haven't seen it on menus yet here, prepare for its total takeover of cafes this year. The bright purple drinks are made with ube, a technicolour sweet potato native to the Philippines that has a nutty, earthy vanilla-like flavour. The ugly-on-the-outside and purple-on-the-inside vegetable is boiled down and turned into a delicious syrup, perfect for drinks. Think of it like one of nature's prettiest and tastiest sweeteners. This summer, find it adding a purple punch to your regular matcha — perfect if you're not a fan of overly sweet drinks. Almond Iced Pistachio Latte Pistachios have had one of the biggest years on record, soaring in popularity and becoming an ingredient in just about everything. Now that summer has arrived, you can expect to see it added to coffees. Different from the in-your-face flavour profile of Dubai chocolate, here you'll find the pistachio (and white chocolate syrup) whisked vigorously and dissolved into your espresso shot, meaning each sip tastes of the delicious ingredient we all can't get enough of. Then, it's topped with MILKLAB Almond and garnished with crushed pistachios and pistachio spread. Coconut Mango Frappe Just because you don't drink coffee doesn't mean you should miss out on having an ice-cold drink at a cafe this summer. Frappes are back in a big way this year, so prepare to see them on cafe menus across the country, and even bars for the sober-curious among us. Think of the Coconut Mango Frappe as the piña colada's daytime equivalent, but with mango. Mango, MILKLAB Coconut, coconut cream, ice and sugar syrup are blended up and served topped with shredded coconut and a lime wedge. Best enjoyed from a glass dripping with condensation when the mercury rises. Find your new summer obsession in store at your favourite cafe now, or head to MILKLAB's website for more inspiration.
Every year, the question of what to do for New Year's Eve is heavily debated in group chats across Brisbane. It all comes down to the kind of night you want to have: views of fireworks or a DJ spinning fire? A sit-down dinner or a night that ends well after midnight? Thankfully, Brisbane's hospitality lineup has all your bases covered. Loyalty program The Pass is hosting a number of New Year's Eve celebrations in Brisbane to send off 2025 in style. From live sax and dancefloors to elegant flame-grilled dining — we have a feeling you'll find what you're looking for. [caption id="attachment_1053560" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The Regatta[/caption] NYE Around the World, The Regatta The Regatta is one of Brisbane's most beloved pubs for a reason. While you'll currently find it wrapped in a giant bow for Christmas, come December 31, the pub will be in full 2026 mode with NYE celebrations across its many bars. On the ground level, The Boatshed's After Dark experience includes a five-course dinner and drinks package centred around their flame-grilled steaks. On level two, you'll find the three-course, gourmet New Year's Eve in Paris experience, complete with riverside firework views. Meanwhile, over on level one, expect more of a party atmosphere at Rio Carnival. Book in for a four-hour canapé and drinks package with river views from the wraparound balcony. Or, opt for the Midnight in NYC on the ground floor for live music, a vibe-filled countdown and a New York-themed space. Book tickets at the Regatta website. [caption id="attachment_1053559" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Hey Chica![/caption] Jungle Fever NYE Fiesta, Hey Chica! Fortitude Valley's Hey Chica! is transforming this New Year's Eve. The typically Latin-styled bar will undergo a jungle-inspired makeover to play host to a night of dancing well past the countdown. Live DJs will be in the booth all night, alongside live instrumentalists. Entry is just $35, or book your crew in for the all-inclusive canapé and drinks package from 8pm to midnight. Book tickets at the Hey Chica! website. [caption id="attachment_1053558" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Lefty's Music Hall[/caption] Bigger Than Texas New Year's Eve, Lefty's Music Hall Where else to ring in the new year than in the hallowed Americana jewel of Caxton Street? This year, the theme is country — as always, you'll find live music, dancing (read: boot scootin'), and good-old-fashioned Lefty's hospitality. Entry is $44.90, or snag early-bird pricing for the food and beverage package at just $127. Book tickets via the Oztix website. [caption id="attachment_1053557" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The Wickham[/caption] No Scrubs: NYE Party, The Wickham If — like Troye Sivan and Charli XCX — you just wanna go back to 1999, The Wickham's No Scrubs: NYE Party is for you. Dust off your butterfly clips, low-rise jeans, and Clueless looks and prepare for a night soundtracked by 90s anthems. From 'Bye Bye Bye' to 'Genie in a Bottle', you'll be ringing in 2026 with at least one pop classic stuck in your head. You'll find themed drinks, giveaways for the first people through the door, and, of course, a Wickham-style heaving dance floor. Book tickets via the Oztix website. [caption id="attachment_1053556" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Riverland[/caption] NYE Celebrations, Riverland Riverland is always one of the best views in Brisbane, but come NYE — it's extra special. For front row firework vistas, grab tickets to this year's celebrations, featuring a four-hour food and drinks package that includes live cooking stations, roaming canapés, premium drinks packages, live music, DJs, and entertainment weaving through the crowd. Then, as the clock ticks closer to midnight, sit back and watch as the Brisbane River erupts with fireworks as you welcome 2026. Book tickets via Oztix website. [caption id="attachment_1053555" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Fridays[/caption] New Year's Eve, Fridays When you think of river-side views in Brisbane, you tend to think of Fridays iconic, leafy outdoor area. As always, Fridays is doing one of the city's best NYE packages, featuring firework views out across the Story Bridge and river. Alongside a live band from 7pm, DJs and roaming entertainment, your ticket also includes four hours of free-flowing premium drinks packages, as well as plenty of nibbles. The venue is open until late, so you can keep celebrating past midnight. Book tickets via the Oztix website. [caption id="attachment_1053554" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Babylon Brisbane[/caption] New Year's Eve Party, Babylon There is a reason that Babylon's NYE tickets sell quickly each year. Mostly due to the fact you'll be celebrating right on the banks of the brown snake with uninterrupted views, and the venue's stacked menu to dine on. You can either make a booking in the restaurant at a time of your choosing (if you'd rather be in bed by midnight) or join in the party at Babylon Gardens. Over in the gardens, enjoy Levantine-inspired canapés, curated food stations and a premium beverage package. There will be a DJ, a saxophonist and fire twirlers bringing the atmosphere as the skyline bursts into technicolour. Book via the Babylon website. [caption id="attachment_1053561" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Retro's[/caption] Midnight in Vegas, Retro's Fortitude Valley If you have always wanted to do NYE in Vegas but never seem to be organised enough, then Retro's Vegas-themed celebration is for you. The Valley stalwart will be decked out with dazzling lights, Vegas ambience and great music until 5am. Naturally, the dance floor will be full thanks to the venue's penchant for retro anthems and party classics. The venue's celebrations sell out every year — so don't miss out on tickets. Book via the Retro's website. Discover more of Australian Venue Co.'s New Year's Eve celebrations at the website.
Some gift guides are aspirational. This one is personal — a tight edit of what the Concrete Playground team is actually giving this year, plus the upgrades we're quietly hoping to unwrap ourselves. Expect a mix of design-forward homewares, beauty and wellness tech, kitchen heroes, audio gear and a few well-earned splurges — the kinds of gifts that get used long after the wrapping paper's binned. If your shopping list leans more aesthetic than practical, head to our design and fashion gift guide for beautiful pieces by Australian brands. SKYWALK Experience Gift Voucher, Sydney Tower Eye For those who favour adrenaline over advent calendars, this breath-taking SKYWALK experience delivers open-air views and city stories from the tallest building in Sydney. Step onto the outdoor platform with the CBD directly beneath your feet for a seriously memorable gift. In partnership with Merlin Entertainments. Shop now. Pressurised Mini Keg, TANKY For anyone who loves hosting without playing bartender all night, TANKY keeps cocktails, mocktails or spritzes perfectly chilled and freshly poured from first glass to last. It's a reusable, pressurised mini keg that looks good on the table and cuts down on bottles, mixers and mid-party mess. Shop now. Gelati Bookshelf Speakers, Encel Designed and voiced in Melbourne, these compact speakers deliver rich, engaging sound wrapped in playful, design-forward finishes. With swappable magnetic grilles and serious audio credentials, they're equal parts listening device and interior statement. Shop now. Hatch Restore, Hatch A bedside essential for anyone trying to fix their sleep without doomscrolling, Hatch Restore replaces alarms with gentle sunrise light and phone-free wind-down routines. It's the kind of gift that quietly improves mornings — and nights — without feeling overly techy. Shop now. Classic Dutch Oven, Crumble A true kitchen workhorse, this cast-iron Dutch oven handles everything from slow braises to bakery-worthy sourdough with ease. Durable, non-toxic and genuinely beautiful, it's made to move seamlessly from stovetop to table. Shop now. Dyson Airwrap Co-anda 2x™ Multi-Styler and Dryer, Dyson Dyson's most powerful Airwrap yet, this upgraded multi-styler uses enhanced Co-anda airflow and intelligent attachments to dry, curl, smooth and straighten — all without extreme heat. A luxe, all-in-one pick for anyone who wants salon-level results at home, minus the learning curve. Shop now. Luxe Café Premier Espresso Machine, Ninja This all-in-one machine takes the guesswork out of espresso, cold brew and filter coffee with guided brewing and hands-free milk frothing. Ideal for coffee lovers who want café-quality results without turning their kitchen into a science lab. Shop now. Cotton Robe, Hommey Crafted from soft, breathable cotton, Hommey's robe turns everyday lounging into a considered ritual. It's the kind of gift that gets worn daily — and feels quietly luxurious every time. Shop now. ŌURA Ring 4, ŌURA A sleek alternative to bulky wearables, the ŌURA Ring tracks sleep, recovery, activity and stress in a discreet design. It's wellness tech for people who care about insights, not notifications. Shop now. DRx SpectraLite™ FaceWare Pro, Dr Dennis Gross This clinic-grade LED mask delivers red and blue light therapy in a three-minute daily treatment designed to target breakouts, fine lines and uneven tone. A serious investment, but one backed by real results and dermatologist-level tech. Shop now. Fine Jewellery, Lindelli Designed and handcrafted in Sydney, Lindelli's pieces balance timeless silhouettes with contemporary restraint. Made with lab-grown diamonds and precious metals, they're heirloom-worthy without the traditional baggage. Shop now. Public Possession 6-Panel Cap, MAAP A collaboration that blends cycling culture with graphic design, this cotton cap is understated but distinctive. Easy to wear, well made and finished with subtle embroidered details. Shop now. La Grande Dame Artist Gift Box 2012, Veuve Clicquot Veuve Clicquot's flagship cuvée comes presented in an artist-designed gift box that celebrates creativity as much as craftsmanship. A special-occasion champagne with depth, finesse and undeniable presence. Shop now. ART Sparkling Water Maker, SodaStream With its retro silhouette and hands-on carbonation lever, this SodaStream makes everyday sparkling water feel a little more intentional. A practical gift that reduces waste while keeping bubbles exactly how you like them. Shop now. Pearl Letter Bracelet, Saint Valentine A delicate chain finished with a single initial and freshwater pearls, this bracelet makes a personal gift without being overly sentimental. Designed for everyday wear, it's subtle, meaningful and easy to layer. Shop now. Gift Card, HÜD For anyone who values great skin but prefers choice, a HÜD gift card unlocks access to one of Melbourne's most respected skin clinics. It's an experience-led gift that prioritises long-term results over quick fixes. Shop now. Super Milk Body Spray, Lush A cult-favourite scent spun out from Lush's viral hair product, this biscuity, lemony body spray settles into a creamy vanilla warmth that's surprisingly grown-up. Sweet without tipping cloying, it's an easy, feel-good fragrance you can mist from head to toe — and one that reliably earns compliments on the road. Shop now. FYI, this story includes some affiliate links. These don't influence any of our recommendations or content, but they may make us a small commission. For more info, see Concrete Playground's editorial policy.
Sydney's summer of sport is officially in full swing, and this season's lineup includes everything from blockbuster cricket and harbour-skimming catamarans to world-class football and top-rate tennis showdowns. And with action taking place throughout the city, each event offers the perfect jumping-off point to explore more of the city. Rather than racing in and out for a match, consider this your playbook for turning four of Sydney's biggest summer sports events into proper mini-escapes, with our picks of nearby restaurants, bars and hotels to help you make the most of your experience. Here's how to make the most of Sydney's summer of sport. [caption id="attachment_1043313" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tennis Australia/Steven Markham[/caption] United Cup Why it's unmissable The Australian summer tennis swing kicks off in Sydney on Saturday, January 3 with the return of the United Cup. This fan-favourite tournament sees national sides battle it out in men's singles, women's singles and mixed doubles, bringing a lively, festival-like vibe to Ken Rosewall Arena. The 2026 edition serves up plenty of reasons to get courtside, with local hero Alex de Minaur, Iga Świątek and Emma Raducanu among the headline names leading a stacked field. Find out more here. Eat here first If you're heading to a day session, kick things off at Happyfield, the enduringly popular American-style diner in Haberfield serving pancake stacks with 100-percent Canadian maple syrup, hefty breakfast burgers and top-notch single-origin coffee. Later in the day, Olympic Meats delivers hearty charcoal-grilled meat plates and other Greek favourites, while Sippenham is a cool, quietly confident neighbourhood hangout known for its seasonal plates and punchy wine list. [caption id="attachment_898451" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Happyfield[/caption] Celebrate here after Post-match, follow the fan flow back into the Inner West and drop into Deadwax, the late-night bar and listening room home to wagyu sandos, a massive vinyl collection and Enmore's only karaoke room. Make a weekend out of it Turn matchday into a mini-escape with a stay at Australia Street Suites, a boutique Newtown address offering stylish accommodation just steps in the thick of one of Sydney's most vibrant neighbourhoods. With easy transport links to Sydney Olympic Park, it's a relaxed, design-led base for a full weekend of tennis and inner-west exploring. Women's T20I Series v India — 1st T20I Why it's unmissable Women's cricket returns to the SCG this February, as the Aussies take on India under the lights in a primetime T20 showdown. The growing rivalry between these two powerhouses is one of modern cricket's most thrilling storylines, with both sides playing at the top of their game right now. Can Alyssa Healy and her side reclaim bragging rights in front of a home crowd after India knocked them out of November's ODI World Cup, or will the Women in Blue spoil the party? Find out more here. Eat here first The SCG's location in the thick of the eastern suburbs means it's within easy reach of some of Sydney's favourite restaurants. Enjoy a spread of Greek mezedes paired with ouzo coladas at vibey Redfern taverna Olympus, fuel up at Surry Hills' Argentinian steakhouse Porteño, or soak up the scene at Neil Perry's big-swinging Italian dining room Gran Torino. If it's water views you're after, Rick Stein at Coogee Beach plates up the legendary British chef's produce-driven seafood dishes, as well as sweeping views of one of the city's most beloved stretches of sand. Celebrate here after When stumps are called, wander up to sleek Darlinghurst neighbourhood bar Vin-Cenzo's (pictured above) for a pick from the impressive wine list and traditional Italian biscuits served in vintage tins, or settle in nearby at The Waratah, home to a cocktail menu that heroes native ingredients. Make a weekend out of it Extend your stay at The EVE — just steps from the SCG, you'll feel like you're a world away thanks to its tropical resort vibes. AFC Women's Asian Cup Australia 2026 Why it's unmissable For the first time in two decades, Australasia's biggest celebration of women's football returns to Australia, bringing some of the region's best national squads (and biggest names) to Western Sydney Stadium and Sydney Olympic Park's Stadium Australia. And with spots in the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup — and, for the first time, the AFC Women's Olympic Qualifying Tournament — up for grabs, you can expect teams to leave it all out on the pitch. Find out more here. Eat here first Kick off your matchday at Misc. This breezy 300-seater in Parramatta Park does it all, from cheeky breakfast items like the Lebs Benedict, featuring grilled sujuk, smoked butter hollandaise and pickled chillies on thick-cut milk toast, to all-day sharing dishes like daily market fish with a preserved lemon vinaigrette and a fall-off-the-bone lamb shoulder with minted labneh, zhoug and flatbread to mop it all up. [caption id="attachment_879092" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Parker Blain[/caption] Celebrate here after Keep the energy high after the final whistle at Lady Banks, Western Sydney's sky-high rooftop perched above Bankstown. Head up for sweeping views and summer-ready cocktails — the perfect perch to debrief every goal, near-miss and heart-stopping moment from the game. Make a weekend out of it Stay close to the action at the Crowne Plaza Sydney Macquarie Park. With brand-new rooms, sleek modern interiors and easy access to both Parramatta and Sydney Olympic Park, it's a smart base for turning matchday into a full Sydney escape. KPMG Sydney Sail Grand Prix Why it's unmissable SailGP brings the world's most exciting race on water back to Sydney Harbour this summer, turning the city's most iconic waterway into a high-octane racecourse. From tight duels and fierce national rivalries to near-flying boat speeds of over 100 kilometres per hour, every race unfolds just metres from shore, with Shark Island perfectly positioned as your front-row seat to the action. This year's event comes with a twist: racing kicks off at 5.30pm, delivering the first-ever twilight showdown in the event's local history. Find out more here. Eat here first Make a day of it on the harbour's edge. Start your pre-race wander at Flaminia, the polished new Italian restaurant bringing big coastal flavours to a prime harbourfront location. For something more laidback, Watermans — tucked along the Barangaroo boardwalk — serves Levantine-inspired plates backed by seasonal local produce. If you fancy a stroll into the city, Rockpool's steak-frites restaurant 24 York serves up MB2+ scotch fillet cooked to your liking for $48. Celebrate here after Take the post-race festivities skyward at Smoke Bar, Barangaroo House's sleek rooftop perch with panoramic views, sharp cocktails and a near-constant buzz. If you'd prefer something more intimate (but no less lively), slip into Maybe Sammy, the award-winning cocktail bar pouring playful, theatre-driven drinks in an elegant, pared-back setting. Make a weekend out of it Cap off your raceday with a stay at the Park Hyatt Sydney (pictured above), where balconies overlook the Sydney Opera House and morning swims on the rooftop pool come with postcard views. It's the ultimate base for a weekend built around the harbour. Ready to feel the Sydney side of summer? Discover the full calendar of what's on across the city at sydney.com.
You'll find Cloudland draped in vines, flowing water and ambient lights in the heart of the Valley. Recently, its rooftop offering, Valley Hops Brewing, has stolen the show. But spend a little time downstairs and you'll quickly be reminded why Cloudland is one of Brisbane's longest-standing venues. [caption id="attachment_1047665" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Cloudland[/caption] You now have a weekly excuse to visit with the launch of Cumulus Thursdays. Each Thursday, from 9pm until late, the sophisticated yet lively sound experience brings together Brisbane's best musicians in Cloudland's house band, Cumulus. This thing runs until late, so expect a sound that melds together heavy boogie, soul, disco and house funk. This is real live music, too. Live hands, no presets and seriously deep bass. [caption id="attachment_1047664" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Cloudland[/caption] Once the band wraps, DJ Two Dee takes over and brings their renowned disco, soul and house ambience to the decks late into the night. Come in early before the band starts to grab a booth in the leafy bar and take advantage of the Thursday special. You can pick up one of Cloudland's pizzas or pastas with a drink for just $30. Dinner and a show, sorted. Find out more about Cumulus Live at Cloudland's website.
From classic Western films to luxury fashion houses and cult Aussie shows like The Saddle Club, there's something about a horse that the world adores. The quiet power, the steady weight, the way they seem to sense you before you even move. For some people, a horse's presence is literally life-changing. At Riding for the Disabled Australia (RDA) centres across Australia, these animals are a key in providing therapeutic benefits — involving riding, carriage driving and unmounted activities — designed to help people with disability strengthen muscles, build coordination, develop confidence, and have fun. Some riders are children born with developmental disabilities such as cerebral palsy or autism, while others are affected by physical disability including MS (Multiple Sclerosis) and progressive blindness. Some are even adults rebuilding after an accident, injury or diagnosis, including people who have become paraplegic, an amputee or suffered brain trauma. The horses meet them where they are, instinctively attuned to every movement and mood, and riders respond in incredible ways. "Horses have this beautiful ability to relax people," says Mary Longden. "They're sentient beings. The smell of a horse, the sound of the horse. Nothing beats actually being on a horse. I've seen almost miracles happen." The changes go beyond riding ability, though practice makes perfect. Through assistance horses, riders who once struggled to follow instructions begin to respond, non-verbal participants start whispering to their horse, and those living with anxiety or attention disorders learn to self-regulate. In these sandy arenas where horses trod along and coaches gently call out instructions like "heels down" or "soft reins", incredible progress is made. Routine, patience and progress are learned through care, from brushing and saddling to leading and riding. Each small action adds up to something bigger and creates more freedom than they ever had before. The RDA program runs on volunteers who give up their time to help lead horses, support riders and keep sessions running. The whole thing is a win-win for both riders and volunteers. "The benefits are not just for the participants. It's uplifting to see the impact for their carers and the volunteers and the coaches," says Steve Gatt. "It's an amazing experience." That sense of shared purpose is what's driven the Petstock Foundation to support RDA for more than a decade. Since 2007, the Foundation has contributed to coaching workshops, centre programs and national initiatives that help RDA continue its work. This year, that partnership is further bolstered through Petstock Foundation's Christmas Project 'Support You Can Snuggle'. While you're picking up treats or toys for your pet this Christmas, donate $2 to the Petstock Foundation, either in store or online, and your contribution will help expand access to programs like RDA. These donations go directly towards supporting and expanding assistance animal services in communities across Australia and New Zealand — ensuring more people can access the life-changing support they need. Donate $2 to assistance animals this Christmas. Your support gifts theirs. Donate instore or online at petstock.com.au.
For the creatively inclined, the best gifts are the ones that spark ideas — something they can hang, play, read, make or experience. This year's standout presents blend form and imagination, spanning gallery-worthy homewares, design-focused objects, limited-edition prints and culture-rich outings across music, theatre and the visual arts. Whether they're a dedicated gallery hopper or simply appreciate beautiful things, we've gathered thoughtful options that celebrate creativity in all its forms — and offer something a little more memorable than the usual stocking filler. Shopping for someone who thinks with their tastebuds? Explore our guide to the best small-batch foodie gifts. Disco Never Dies Tickets, Sydney Symphony Orchestra Relive the glory days of disco as the Sydney Symphony Orchestra brings the era's biggest hits back to life. Expect powerhouse vocals from Paulini, Emma Donovan and Jess Hitchcock, all led by conductor Carlo Antonioli. Grab your flares and get moving 'cos the dance floor awaits. In partnership with the SSO. Shop now. Jex Vinyl Stand, Idle Hands A minimal, sculptural vinyl stand that puts their favourite album artwork on display. Ideal for the design-minded listener who treats records like objects to admire. Shop now. Conversation Cards, Project Planet A beautifully illustrated deck designed to prompt thoughtful chats about creativity, culture and the world around us. A meaningful choice for reflective types. Shop now. Ticketek Gift Voucher, Ticketek Perfect for anyone who loves a night out, this voucher unlocks access to gigs, theatre, comedy, festivals and more. A reliably excellent choice for culture lovers. Shop now. One-Year Subscription, Overland A thoughtful gift for voracious readers, offering three print editions of Australia's longest-running literary magazine. Shop now. Cupid's Cup, Jean Riley A hand-blown piece that balances sentiment and sculptural form. A beautiful addition to any art lover's daily ritual. Shop now. Limited Edition Prints, Sunday Salon A curated selection of prints from upcoming artists, like this one by Brisbane-based painter Mia Boe. Shop now. David Shrigley 2026 Calendar, Hands A playful, month-by-month dose of Shrigley's signature wit and irreverent drawings. A smart pick for desks and studios. Shop now. Tears of the Sun Mug, Jardan A hand-painted stoneware mug with vibrant detailing that brings a little brightness to morning routines. Practical, but with artistic flair. Shop now. Candelabra by Candlelight Class, Hilary Green A hands-on session where participants shape their own sculptural candleholders in a warm, atmospheric studio. A uniquely memorable experience. Shop now. Instax Mini LiPlay, Fujifilm A hybrid instant camera that prints photos on the spot. Ideal for capturing concerts, exhibitions and creative days out. Shop now. Rano Coaster, Tanora Handwoven using traditional techniques, these organic coasters bring subtle texture and beauty to the home. A simple, thoughtful gesture. Shop now. Entwined Vase by Rachel Disalvo, Rachel Disalvo Studio Bold, contemporary ceramaics from emerging Australian artist Rachel Disalvo. Each piece adds energy and personality to a room. Shop now. Mirka Mora Bridge Set, Third Drawer Down A collectible set featuring Mirka Mora's distinctive artwork. Equal parts game and keepsake, it's a nostalgic nod to one of Australia's most beloved artists. Shop now. Guerrilla Girls Tea Towel, Heide Museum Store A striking tea towel from the legendary feminist art collective. Functional, political and unmistakably eye-catching. Shop now. FYI, this story includes some affiliate links. These don't influence any of our recommendations or content, but they may make us a small commission. For more info, see Concrete Playground's editorial policy.
Sydney's cultural scene hits full stride in summer, when theatres, galleries, parks and inner-city streets light up with blockbuster musicals, bold new exhibitions and major festivals. Whether you're in the mood for a time-travelling stage spectacular, a boundary-pushing gallery show or a night out at one of the city's biggest cultural celebrations, there's something happening in nearly every corner of Sydney. To help you plan your season, we've pulled together six standout events and paired each one with nearby places to help you make a day — or night — of it. Consider this your roadmap to experiencing Sydney at its most creative and colourful. [caption id="attachment_1048999" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Daniel Boud[/caption] Back to the Future: The Musical Why it's unmissable Great Scott! The DeLorean has arrived in Australia, bringing high-voltage sets and nostalgia-driven humour to the Sydney Lyric. Featuring music and lyrics by OG Back to the Future composer Alan Silvestri and acclaimed songwriter Glen Ballard (Jagged Little Pill the Musical), plus a book by Gale — who co-penned all three Back to the Future film scripts with filmmaker Robert Zemeckis — the Olivier Award-winning Back to the Future: The Musical is summer's blockbuster musical moment. Find out more here. Make a night of it Start your evening with pasta and a spritz on the breezy waterfront terrace — the largest in Barangaroo — at Gina. The sun-washed venue takes its cues from the classic coastal trattorias of the Amalfi Coast, serving daily handmade pasta, cold cuts sliced to order and crowd-pleasing Italian classics. Its position on the ferry pier also means a swift (and scenic) trip across the harbour will set you down in Pyrmont just steps from the theatre. Extend your stay Extend your night out with a stay at Sofitel Darling Harbour, where floor-to-ceiling windows frame the skyline and the rooftop infinity pool delivers some of the best sunrise views in the city. It's an elegant, easy base just a short stroll from the theatre — and puts you right in the heart of Pyrmont and Darling Harbour's buzzy dining and lifestyle scenes. RELICS: A New World Rises Why it's unmissable Running at the Australian Museum, RELICS: A New World Rises goes far beyond your average LEGO® exhibit. Created by Alex Towler and Jackson Harvey (2020 winners of Channel 9's LEGO® Masters), it blends the iconic bricks with real-world objects like you've never seen before, transforming pre-loved everyday items into 14 immersive mini civilisations. Find out more here. Make a day of it After the exhibition, take things sky-high at Infinity by Mark Best — a scenic stroll through Hyde Park from the museum — where, from the 81st floor of Sydney Tower, the Harbour City feels like its own miniature civilisation. Its elegant Modern Australian menu showcases local produce in clever, technique-driven dishes — a fitting follow-up to an exhibition that asks you to look closer at the worlds we build. [caption id="attachment_1018817" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Jason Loucas[/caption] Then, ease back down to street level and wander over to Library Bar, the State Library's rooftop hideaway overlooking the treetops of Macquarie Street. It's an easygoing spot for a summer sundowner, with spritzes, snacks and views that pair perfectly with a slow end to the afternoon. Sydney Festival Why it's unmissable Sydney Festival turns 50 in 2026, and it's marking the milestone with a citywide celebration of culture and connection. From January 8–25, the annual summer spectacular will take over stages, parks and galleries — plus unexpected spaces like alleyways, pools and even a working funeral home — for a three-week program spanning theatre, dance, music, cabaret, visual art and immersive experiences. It's one of the most exciting times to be out in the city, with something happening in nearly every corner. Find out more here. Make a day of it Sydney Festival is built for days spent wandering between performances and pop-ups, so start early with brunch or a breezy lunch in whichever pocket of the city your show is in. If you're headed to Walsh Bay, a waterside spot like Barangaroo seafood favourite love.fish sets the tone; for a show in the CBD or around Town Hall, enjoy a pre-show snack and sip at contemporary Greek spot Ela Ela, or slip into elegant fast fine-dining spot Ette for an aperitivo and creative snack before the curtain goes up. Follow the festival trail Post-show, drift along the Festival trail and hop between neighbourhoods as the night builds. That could mean a sunset drink at InterContinental Sydney's rooftop stunner Aster before an event in The Rocks, or a stop at vibey Chippendale fave Bar Freda's for a spicy watermelon marg slushie — and maybe even a cheeky boogie — ahead of a late-night gig at Carriageworks. [caption id="attachment_1046924" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Installation view of the 'Dangerously Modern: Australian Women Artists in Europe 1890–1940' exhibition at the Art Gallery of New South Wales, 11 October 2025 – 15 February 2026, photo © Art Gallery of New South Wales, Anna Kučera[/caption] Dangerously Modern Why it's unmissable The Art Gallery of NSW is spotlighting an often-overlooked chapter of Australian art history with its summer blockbuster Dangerously Modern: Australian Women Artists in Europe 1890–1940. This landmark exhibition showcases more than 200 works by 50 pioneering women who left Australia to embed themselves in the studios, salons and artist colonies of Europe's cultural capitals, where they experimented and exhibited long before modernism took hold back home. The show traces how these experiences shaped their practices, and how they returned with ideas that helped reshape Australia's artistic landscape. Find out more here. Make a night of it With two-for-one tickets on offer for Art After Hours on Wednesdays, the gallery is an ideal spot to kick off a chic midweek date night. Afterwards, channel the spirit of Europe's late-night salons and slip into Letra House, Kent Street's moody underground tapas bar. Head in for a pick from its ever-evolving 50-bottle wine list, and pair it with a selection of ingredient-driven small plates like raw scampi tostada, duck liver parfait with pickled rhubarb and brandy snap, or socarrat with firefly squid, broadbean and garlic. Nightcap? Take a short stroll around the corner to Bar Herbs, which pours classic and flavour-forward martinis in a neon-hued subterranean space that hums until the small hours. Extend your stay Turn your date night into a mini-escape with a stay at W Sydney, where boundary-pushing design and statement-making interiors pick up right where your gallery visit left off. The hotel's striking architecture, curated art moments and rooftop infinity pool overlooking Darling Harbour will keep you perfectly primed to carry that creative spark into the next day. Tropfest Why it's unmissable Following a six-year hiatus, the world's biggest short-film festival returns to Centennial Park this summer. And while the world has changed quite a bit since its last outing in 2019, Tropfest's core mission remains unchanged: to give filmmakers at any stage of their careers a genuinely global platform — and to do it at a free, openair event that welcomes everyone. Find out more here. Make a night of it Centennial Park's position smack-bang in the middle of the eastern suburbs means you're on the doorstep of Double Bay's buzzy dining scene. Stop by Neil Perry's big-swinging Italian restaurant Gran Torino for handmade pasta and a show-stopping tiramisu in a historic setting, or settle in for a perfectly cooked steak at Perry's sleek Mod Oz fine diner Margaret, just up the street. [caption id="attachment_1017635" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Yusuke Oba[/caption] If dinner by the sea is more the mood, head east and grab a table at Rocker, North Bondi's breezy all-day diner featuring coastal Mediterranean-inspired plates, natural wines and a solid cocktail lineup that includes eight types of margarita — plus one of the more impressive Sunday roasts in town. [caption id="attachment_978660" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Joseph Mayers[/caption] Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade Why it's unmissable Sydney's most colourful pride parade returns to the streets of Darlinghurst for its 48th edition in February, transforming Oxford Street, Flinders Street and Anzac Parade into a glittering celebration of visibility, power and joy. With thousands of marchers and dozens of flamboyant floats, the night pulses with energy — and it's completely free to watch, making it one of Sydney's most accessible major events. The theme guiding the parade's 48th edition is ECSTATICA, which celebrates joy as power, protest and connection. Find out more here. Before the parade Set the tone early in Darlinghurst, where street-front tables start filling long before the first float hits Oxford Street. Ease into the night at The Waratah, the cosy two-storey bar known for its native ingredient-starring cocktails and fun bar snacks (pictured below). Or, take a seat at L'Avant Cave, Oxford Street Paddington's charming courtyard wine bar pouring standout drops by the glass and nostalgic French-leaning bites. If you're coming in via Surry Hills, The Art Syndicate serves wines, beers and spirits exclusively from NSW in an intimate art gallery just behind Taylor Square. For a more low-key warm-up, 40Res offers a seasonally evolving menu built around local ingredients and a sharp list of Australian and European from boutique producers — all in an understated, dimly lit room that contrasts beautifully with the technicolour chaos of the festivities outside. [caption id="attachment_929493" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Jason Loucas[/caption] After the parade When the glitter settles, head up to Monica, Paddington's 1960s Hollywood-inspired rooftop bar overlooking Oxford Street, for skyline views and a party-ready drinks list. It's perched above the personality-packed 25hours Hotel Sydney The Olympia, a handy spot to crash after one of the city's biggest parties. When you resurface, stroll down to Surry Hills stalwart Bills for a breezy brunch — the signature ricotta hotcakes, corn fritters and velvety scrambled eggs are an ideal way to fuel your debrief from the night before. Ready to feel the Sydney side of summer? Discover the full calendar of what's on across the city at sydney.com. Top image: Anna Kučera.
Sydney comes alive in summer — long lunches segue into golden-hour drinks, warm evenings spill into the streets and the city buzzes with new exhibitions and openair experiences. Whether you're browsing a waterside market or diving into a boundary-pushing gallery show, this season is built for discovery. Instead of dipping in for a single exhibition or market visit, treat each outing as the start of its own mini escape. In the spirit of making the most of every sunny moment, we've paired five must-see summer events with nearby neighbourhood gems that showcase the breadth of Sydney's food, culture and creativity. The Rocks Markets: Christmas Edition Why it's unmissable Set beneath the Sydney Harbour Bridge, The Rocks Markets: Christmas Edition brings together local makers showcasing their wares for three festive weekends of openair browsing. Add woodfired pizza, gozleme and crepes into the mix — along with furoshiki gift-wrapping workshops — and you've got one of summer's most charming holiday pit stops. Find out more here. Make a day of it Once you've filled your tote, wander a few steps to Hooked and Harvest, The Rocks' sunny new fish and chippery serving market-fresh fish, freshly shucked oysters and flavour-packed salads. If you're after something with a deeper sense of place, Midden by Mark Olive heroes native Australian ingredients via refined dishes like kutjera-braised beef cheek, blue gum-smoked miso eggplant and Olive's signature Bush Pavlova topped with a native fruit coulis and wattleseed cream, all from a breezy spot under the sails of the Sydney Opera House. [caption id="attachment_921470" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Steven Woodburn[/caption] Wind down nearby As the sun starts to slip, take the lift up to Martinez, Circular Quay's breezy rooftop bar with Mediterranean coastal vibes, panoramic views and a bright drinks list made for golden hour. Extend your stay Make a weekend of it at The Russell Boutique Hotel, the charming new stay in the heart of The Rocks (and set right above Sydney's oldest pub). With its warm, character-filled rooms — some of which have direct courtyard access — and unbeatable proximity to some of Sydney's most iconic spots, it's an ideal base for an urban summer escape. [caption id="attachment_918689" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Eugene Hyland[/caption] RELICS: A New World Rises Why it's unmissable This immersive new exhibition at the Australian Museum transforms discarded objects into intricate LEGO® civilisations, from a grandfather clock reverse-engineered into a time machine to a cryogenics facility inside a vintage freezer. Part art installation, part nostalgic playground, it's a summer experience for kids and adults alike — and a reminder that creativity and curiosity have no age limits. Find out more here. Make a day of it Kick things off with coffee and a pastry — or an inventive breakfast plate like avo and kale bagel with peanut chilli sauce, or soft scrambled eggs swimming in chicken broth and served with garlic-buttered baguette — in the charming sandstone-framed courtyard of A.P Bread & Wine in Darlinghurst. Post-exhibition, stroll down to Woolloomooloo for a late lunch at Akti, the breezy, coastal-Greek diner serving moussaka croquettes, lamb shoulder with chimichurri and summer-ready cocktails overlooking the Finger Wharf. Wind down nearby Round out your day at Monica, Paddington's new sun-drenched rooftop bar overlooking the bustle of Oxford Street. Head up to take in sweeping skyline views, playful cocktail — like a rhubarb and grapefruit paloma on tap — in hand as the city lights flicker on. Extend your stay Not ready to go home? You don't have to — Monica sits on the roof of the new 25hours Hotel Sydney The Olympia, a design-forward Paddington boutique set in a heritage-listed former cinema. Its prime location offers easy access to some of Sydney's most vibrant neighbourhoods, with hire bikes available if you're keen to explore more. [caption id="attachment_1045265" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Emmaline Zanelli, 'Magic Cave', 2024-2025, installation view, image courtesy the artist and Museum of Contemporary Art Australia © the artist, photograph by Hamish McIntosh[/caption] MCA double-header: Primavera 2025: Young Australian Artists and A Conversation with the Sun (Afterimage): Apichatpong Weerasethakul Why it's unmissable While we're never short of reasons to visit Australia's home of contemporary art, this summer, the MCA is giving us two more. Running until early March, Primavera 2025: Young Australian Artists continues the annual exhibition's nearly four-decade legacy of providing a platform to Australia's next generation of artistic and curatorial talent. This year's works invite visitors to consider what it means to continue making art in a digital and post-industrial world. Find out more here. Also on show: Palme d'Or-winning filmmaker Apichatpong Weerasethakul's new cinematic site-specific installation for the MCA. The large-scale work — on display in the MCA Macgregor Gallery until early February — features video diaries projected onto floating fabric, creating a dream-like experience inspired by pondering the sun while walking in nature. Find out more here. Make a day of it Take a leisurely stroll around Circular Quay and drop anchor at Flaminia, the refined yet laidback venue by acclaimed chef Giovanni Pilu (Pilu at Freshwater) plating up Italian coastal classics alongside sweeping harbour views. Feeling adventurous? Hop on the ferry from Circular Quay to Manly and arrive at Felons Seafood for towering seafood platters, salt and vinegar martinis and a tap pouring Australia's coldest beer. Take a seat in the spacious outdoor terrace to soak up the sun, or nab a seat by the window for uninterrupted views across Manly Cove and Sydney Harbour. [caption id="attachment_1011783" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Steven Woodburn[/caption] Wind down nearby Next door to its namesake restaurant, Felons Manly brings the award-winning Brisbane brewhouse's beers to an expansive, sun-washed space, with regular events and live music keeping things lively throughout the evening. Or, follow the boardwalk around the shoreline to settle in at The Espy Manly, an alfresco bar serving up spritzes and sunshine in equal measure. If the mood is less wind down and more turn up, venture to neighbouring Freshwater and settle in at Bombies, a late-night bar and live music lounge that brings 1970s beach house energy to the rooftop of the historic Harbord Hotel. Extend your stay If there's a better way to start your day than at the beach, we're yet to find it. And at Manly Pacific Hotel, you'll wake up mere steps from the sand. And whether you choose to start your day with espresso on your sunlit balcony overlooking Manly Beach or you're popping across the road for a pre-breakfast surf, your morning will feel like its own little holiday. The Makers and Shakers Christmas Gift Market Why it's unmissable If you're hunting for holiday gifts with personality, this market at Rozelle's White Bay Cruise Terminal ticks every box: you'll find over 140 stalls selling Australian-made homewares, slow-fashion pieces and artisan treats in a bright, harbour-framed warehouse setting. Add drop-in workshops, kids' zones and free parking, and you've got all the ingredients for some feel-good festive shopping. Find out more here. Make a day of it Start the day with a hearty Middle Eastern-inspired brunch at The Rusty Rabbit, a light-filled corner spot in leafy Concord. If it's views you're after, it's hard to beat The Fenwick. This restaurant and art gallery on the edge of the East Balmain waterfront, set in an 1880s former tugboat store, plates up Italian-inspired fare and postcard-perfect views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. [caption id="attachment_706208" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The Old Clare Rooftop[/caption] Wind down nearby Swap the Inner West waterfront for its indie bar scene. Start with the Inner West Distillery Trail, where small-batch gin, whisky and new-world spirits are poured straight from the source in tasting rooms across Rozelle, Marrickville and surrounds. The Inner West is also home to some of Sydney's best breweries, and the Inner West Ale Trail links a string of top-tier taprooms within a few easy kilometres. From hazy IPAs in sunny beer gardens to crisp lagers and barrel-aged sours in cavernous converted warehouses, it's a relaxed way to dig a little deeper into one of Sydney's most creative neighbourhoods. Extend your stay Make it a full weekend escape at The Old Clare Hotel, which blends luxe contemporary comforts with the character of a historic Chippendale building. By day, bask by the rooftop pool and bar, soaking up the city skyline with a drink in hand; then, wander into the laneways of Chippendale's buzzy food and bar scene to make a night of it. Ready to feel the Sydney side of summer? Discover the full calendar of what's on across the city at sydney.com.
Home meal delivery providers HelloFresh and Youfoodz are in hot water with the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), with the popular services accused of misleading customers over their subscription and cancellation terms. With legal proceedings underway, the ACCC claims that both HelloFresh and Youfoodz breached Australian Consumer Law by advertising that consumers could easily cancel subscriptions using their online account settings before a specified cut-off time. However, the watchdog suggests the reality was much different, with consumers only able to cancel the first delivery if they spoke with a customer service representative. Meanwhile, the ACCC statement says many customers were still charged for their first delivery after they'd attempted to cancel. "Despite what HelloFresh and Youfoodz represented to new Australian subscribers, tens of thousands of consumers were charged for their first order, even though they cancelled their subscription before the cut-off date," said ACCC Commissioner Luke Woodward. There were also widespread complaints about customers unknowingly signing up for subscriptions. Here, the ACCC alleges that HelloFresh required consumers to provide payment details to view the service's meal selection. When consumers visited the page, they were unaware they had entered into an ongoing subscription and were charged for a first delivery. Following the Australian government's recent announcement of a crackdown on misleading cancellation policies and so-called subscription traps, draft legislation is expected to arrive in early 2026. In the meantime, the ACCC is seeking compensation orders for affected consumers from HelloFresh and YouFoodz. For more information, head to the ACCC website to read the full statement.
We don't mean to be dramatic, but you haven't lived until you've had your first ButterBoy cookie. Everyone has their own taste in cookies, sure, but these are some of Sydney's best. And now, the brand is opening its first permanent store outside of Sydney, the first step in a plan for national cookie domination. First there was Manly, then followed Chatswood, Broadway and Brookvale. Where to next? Start packing the car for a road trip, because ButterBoy is setting up shop in Byron Bay. The brand may have started humble, but after a series of wildly popular pop-ups in Sydney and Melbourne, they've seen that Australians are hungry for more ButterBoy, more frequently. "We're bringing everything Butterboy has to offer to Byron," says ButterBoy founder James Sideris. Including new and signature cookie flavours, soft-serves and the viral cookie milk to the holiday hot spot just in time for peak summer season". That's right. It's more than just cookies. ButterBoy takes the typical pairing of cookies and milk to the next level, with both soft serve and cookie milk available. Yes, cookie milk. ButterBoy cookies blasted into fine crumbs, then soaked and strained into a creamy glass of milk that tastes like it came out of the oven with the cookies themselves. Sideris started ButterBoy in his uni days, selling muffins and cookies to nearby cafes out of his home kitchen, before jumping on the chunky cookie trend with a bakery in the Manly arcade, just next door to two other Manly icons that Sidaris co-owns, Rollers Bakery and Norma's Deli, before expanding into a flagship store on the Corso in 2022. Now, ButterBoy produces thousands of kilograms of cookie dough to be sold both in its stores and distributed to wholesale partners across the country. The new Byron Bay store will be opening later this month, right in the heart of the action on Jonson Street. ButterBoy will open in late December at 17-21 Jonson Street, Byron Bay. Head to the website for more information.
There's no summer like a Sydney summer. From long days spent underneath beach umbrellas to leisurely lunches with friends, Sydney looks best when drenched in sunshine. If you're looking for a summer plan to fill your weekends with, the waterfront Mosman restaurant, St Siandra, is bringing back its much-loved deck chairs by Business & Pleasure Co. to its private beach this summer. Running from Friday, January 2 until Tuesday, March 31, every Wednesday to Sunday, the pop-up allows diners to settle into deck chairs right on the beach with uninterrupted harbour views and the full menu delivered right to your seat. From fresh seafood and Mediterranean-inspired share plates to summer-ready cocktails and chilled wines, you can order the best of St Siandra to your own private beach with just a tap of your phone. Talk about a luxury staycation. Secure your spot on St Siandra's private beach by booking in advance. The beach deck chairs are available to book in two-hour sessions in groups of two to six. Given the luxury of this offering, spots are limited, so it's best to lock in a few summer days with your friends and family ASAP. Inside, away from the sandy shores, St Siandra's continues to exude vacation vibes with a menu that's an ode to holiday dining and the flavours of the Mediterranean. Freshly caught seafood plays a starring role on the menu, which has been designed by head chef Sam McCallum. His experience is evident in his commitment to sourcing the highest-quality produce and ingredients, with a preference for local suppliers wherever possible. Visually, the vacation vibes don't end with the restaurant's beachfront location either. Touches throughout combine to transport you to Europe at its summery best. Every seat in the restaurant boasts views of the water, conspiring with the warm-hued, Amalfi-inspired interiors by interior designer Sally Taylor, featuring furniture sourced locally and from Italy. Together, it all beguiles guests into momentarily forgetting they're in fact in Mosman, not the Mediterranean. So much so, it's even possible to sail straight into St Siandra's private beach aboard your own (or a rented) vessel and disembark immediately into an awaiting deck chair or a seat inside. Whether you're planning a leisurely long lunch or just looking to soak up the sun in style, this unique Sydney experience blends barefoot luxury with laid-back Sydney coastal energy. See you on the deck chairs. See out summer from a beachside deck chair and book now at St Siandra. Image credit: Supplied
Each year, New Year's Eve defies logic and arrives quicker and quicker than the year before. Now, 2026 is just around the corner, and your calendar still has nothing but a blank space assigned to the 31st. We've been there. Thankfully, loyalty program The Pass is hosting a number of New Year's Eve celebrations not too far outside of Brisbane, to send off 2025 in style. We have compiled this list of six ideas that you and your crew can book — think space cowboys, rooftop parties, and 90s-themed nights. [caption id="attachment_1053619" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Kings Beach Tavern[/caption] No Scrubs vs Round Up, Kings Beach Tavern If you'd like to spend your New Year's break beachside, may we suggest the calm waters of Kings Beach? By day, hop between the beach's iconic ocean pool and the near-flat bays of Happy Valley and Bulcock Beach. Then, by night, head to the Kings Beach Tavern for their No Scrubs and Round Up night. With one ticket, you'll be able to join both the 90s throwback night and the country hoedown — so if you can't decide if you're feeling more 'Teenage Dirtbag' or Chattahoochee, this one's for you. Get tickets at the Oztix website. Space Cowboys NYE, Cleveland Sands Tavern Why not spend New Year's in the Redlands this year? Just off the coast of North Stradbroke Island, you'll find the Cleveland Sands Tavern's Space Cowboys NYE party. Prepare for a night of intergalactic meets honky-tonk hoedown with throwback tunes, dance-offs, singalong competitions, and table dancing. Be sure to dress for the occasion — there's a best-dressed space cowboy prize up for grabs. Get tickets at the Oztix website. [caption id="attachment_1053620" align="alignnone" width="1920"] No Scrubs[/caption] No Scrubs 90s Nights, Burleigh Town Hotel If, like Troye Sivan and Charli XCX, you just wanna go back to 1999, then you're in for a treat. On the sandy shores of Burleigh at the Burleigh Town Hotel you'll find the No Scrubs night. Dust off your butterfly clips, low-rise jeans and Clueless looks and prepare for a night soundtracked by 90s anthems. From 'Bye Bye Bye' to 'Genie in a Bottle' — you'll ring in 2026 with at least one 90s earworm stuck in your head. You'll find themed drinks, giveaways for the first people through the door, and, of course, a heaving dance floor. If you're a fan of the 90s but won't be on the Gold Coast, the same themed night is popping up at the Sundowner Hotel in Caboolture. Get tickets at the Oztix website. LuLu's The Last Dance, SONDA, For those who prefer their New Year's Eve to come with heavy bass, you'll want to nab tickets to SONDA's The Last Dance at LuLu Rooftop Bar. Why? Because here, the final night of 2025 is more like a celebration of music and community all on a Gold Coast rooftop. With a stacked DJ lineup — Saie, Cheq, Shyne and Cortezz — prepare for the dance floor to be one to remember. Get tickets at the Oztix website. Midnight in Vegas New Year's Eve Party, Retro's Gold Coast If you have always wanted to do NYE in Vegas but never seem to be organised enough, then Retro's Gold Coast's Vegas-themed celebration is for you. The boogieing hot spot will be decked out with dazzling lights, Vegas ambience and great music until 5am. Naturally, the dance floor will be full thanks to old-school anthems and party classics. Retro's New Year's celebrations tickets go quickly each year, so don't miss out. Get tickets at the Retro's website. Discover more of Australian Venue Co.'s New Year's Eve celebrations at the website.
School's not only out for summer, it's actually out forever, with the latest Year 12 cohort receiving their final ATAR results over the next week or two. While that's pretty daunting, Nandos is here to put you in a celebratory mood, serving free chicken and chips meals to help students ring in their results. The idea comes courtesy of a Melbourne-based student named Kyla, who saw Nandos in the UK giving Year 12 students a free feed as an end-of-year favour. Asking whether the much-loved Portuguese chicken brand could do the same for her and her friends, the restaurant stepped up to shout students across Australia. Whether you're seeking a 99.95 or just happy that you'll never have to sit another exam, free chicken and chips is the great academic equaliser. Available to the first 100 students at each participating restaurant, just show your student card to score a free meal, featuring a quarter chicken, regular chips and a 600ml Coke Zero. Held on the ATAR release date in most states — Victoria is up first on Thursday, December 11 — there will be 30 locations around the country keen to take your order. So, grab your pals and celebrate (or commiserate) your score — just know that pretty much no one will speak of them again in a couple of years' time.
For many families in the hospitality industry, children often inherit the beloved restaurants where they spent their formative years. It's not often that you find a hospitality veteran launching a restaurant specifically with his parents in mind. Brookvale's Bazaar and Bar and Sketch Manly founder, Kabir Arora, wanted to give his parents a "real place to land" once they emigrated to Australia from India. "Mum had years of catering experience back in India and deserved a kitchen where she could show off properly," says Kabir. "Dad, BJ, is a numbers guy, so he slid straight into the accounting seat. Sketch became our family project before it ever became a restaurant." If you're not familiar with the curry and craft beer house, Sketch Manly, you've been missing out. The restaurant started with Indian tapas nights that the locals packed out. Throughout COVID, Sketch Manly stayed open every day and nine years into their venture, the restaurant still hasn't closed its doors once. "That's how committed we are to being part of this neighbourhood," says Kabir. "Sketch is what it is because Manly made it that way." Kabir describes Sketch Manly as Indian home-cooking meets a cosy Melbourne bar (despite being in Sydney). "Vibey street energy, hip tunes, and a space built with genuine care for food and drinks," Kabir tells Concrete Playground. Sketch Manly's curries are all Kabir's mum's, Sukh's recipes. "It's simple food done right. Our butter chicken and mushroom korma anchor the menu, and the rest rotates seasonally. No gimmicks. Just home cooking executed properly." Said butter chicken is the "unofficial mascot of Sketch", and Kabir prides himself on their version going back to basics. "Too many Sydney spots have turned butter chicken into dessert, so we went in the opposite direction: tomato, butter, cream, a few spices, and restraint." Kabir's partner, Ivy, has also helped Manly to fall in love with the restaurant's newest dessert: the Chai-misu, an Indian twist on the ever-popular tiramisu. Alongside its food offerings, Sketch Manly is also known for pairing its homemade curries with crispy craft beers. "Spices and a crisp, cold beer are natural mates," says Kabir. "A clean lager cools things down beautifully, but a juicy pale or hazy IPA can actually lift the flavours and make the whole meal pop." Ultimately, the family ethos that began Sketch Manly is what Kabir hopes customers feel after dining in. Similar to eating at your cousin's or mum's place, he says, the family hopes diners leave full, content, happy and planning their next visit. "It's the neighbourhood curry spot where everyone feels welcome," says Kabir. "First-timers, regulars, families, tradies — whoever walks in gets treated like part of the crew. We cook the same way every day, with the same care." So, what's next for the Northern Beaches restaurant? Kabir is setting his sights on more dinner collaborations, hibachi nights, and even an expansion. "And we're finally launching Sketch Goods — small-batch chutneys, sauces, pickles, and other Indian pantry staples we've been quietly perfecting," says Kabir. The idea for Sketch Goods is simple: bring Sketch Manly's beloved flavours into other cafes, delis, pubs, and home kitchens. What began as a family project has turned into a nearly decade-long love affair with the Northern Beaches suburb, and as the Pittwater Road gem expands, it seems Sketch Manly's food and flavours could soon be enjoyed by more than just the locals. Images: Supplied
It comes as no surprise that Australia's nightlife scenes have shifted dramatically in the past five years. From COVID-19 to the spiking cost of living, Australians' leisure habits are constantly adapting. It may have taken us nearly half a decade to get back off our couches and into our local pubs and restaurants post-lockdown, but the data shows that it's finally happening. Australians are getting more comfortable with heading back out into the nightlife. The Visa Vibe Economy report, commissioned by Visa and conducted by McCrindle, provides a comprehensive snapshot of Australian life after dark. From chasing the newest must-try restaurant to heading out to night markets, Australians are finding fresh ways to make our nights count. For one in three Australians, going out at night is "extremely or very important" to their lifestyle. Dining out is the most popular choice for leaving the comfort and safety of their houses, followed by heading to the cinema, visiting night markets and going to bars and pubs. [caption id="attachment_1018636" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Etheus[/caption] The stats also show that, despite the rhetoric around Gen Z being isolated phone addicts, the younger generations are driving Australia's night-time activity, with Gen Z choosing to go out an average of just over nine nights per month, followed by Gen Y (or millennials) with an average of 7.2 nights out a month. With Visa's new data providing a snapshot of Australia's after-dark habits in the second half of the 2020s, we spoke with two hospitality leaders to get a sense check on what the future of our nightlife may look like and how it has changed. Intentionality over consumption Across the country, operators are seeing a clear move towards more intentional nights out. Kingsley Smith, owner of The London Hotel in Paddington, notes that the midweek pub catch-up has dropped significantly. Kingsley says that Australians are drinking "considerably" less midweek. Saturday nights are still booming, however, as Kingsley observes that Australians are saving themselves for a bigger blowout on the weekend. "Saturday is still the big night out, possibly bigger than ever," he tells Concrete Playground. Jason Williams, the Director of House Made Hospitality, echoes this trend, adding that while Australians continue to socialise, caution around spending due to inflation is shaping how people engage with hospitality. "People are spending a little less, but they're still going out. Guests are chasing experiences — not just good food and drinks — but they're more value-conscious than before." [caption id="attachment_836017" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Apollonia[/caption] Kingsley believes that the future of the Australian nightlife is "food-focused" with punters looking for "alternative entertainment" outside of bars and clubs, noting that a night out "doesn't need to involve alcohol". This observation is backed up by Visa's data, which found that great food and entertainment take centre stage on Australians' nights out. At the same time, the availability of alcohol ranked low on our list of after-dark priorities. "Australians are drinking less alcohol these days, driven by health and wellness trends, shifting social habits and cost-of-living pressures," says Jason. Despite these trends, Jason remains optimistic about the future of Australian nightlife, particularly in his hometown of Sydney. "Sydney's nightlife is slowly rebuilding after years of lockout laws and red tape, and we're finally seeing real energy from all levels of government to support it," says Jason. "Spending habits are changing, but there's no shortage of passionate operators and creatives ready to deliver great experiences and that enthusiasm will help grow the audience again." [caption id="attachment_1003546" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Baptist Street Rec. Club[/caption] Even as our habits change, the magic of our cities after dark remains. "We just need to normalise going out more often and make the city feel alive after dark. More retailers staying open later would help, too," Jason shares. According to Kingsley, al fresco dining is booming among customers, and councils are (thankfully) supporting this shift. "Outdoor dining is growing in popularity, and our councils are listening and approving more sidewalk seating and parklets." A message for the home bodies With the price of a pint, the comfort of streaming services and all of our friends living on the small computer in our pockets, it's often easier (and more tempting) to choose a night in over heading out into the dark. But as the weather warms up, Kingsley offers words of encouragement to the homebodies. "Embrace our city at night," says Kingsley. "The more people out, the safer it is and the more vibrant the city becomes." Jason, on the other hand, shares a timeless and pertinent reminder to help us create the future of Australian nightlife. "Netflix will still be there when you get home. Get out and create your own stories to tell — the world's full of energy, flavour and good company if you go looking for it." Discover the vibe near you.
Think of Box Hill's cuisine, and you'll most likely picture the best Chinese food in Melbourne. With its large Asian population, the Eastern suburb is a mecca for world-class noodles, soups and dumplings. But, after living in Box Hill for over a decade, hospitality veteran Sam Hatherley identified a gap in his neighbourhood and, in 2024, opened the cafe and bistro, UNA UNA. "Can you imagine a hidden bistro tucked under an apartment building in Box Hill, run by ex-hatted restaurant staff? We wanted to bring something fresh," Sam says. "[UNA UNA has] modern European-style, semi-fine-dining dishes with seasonal menus and thoughtful, unhurried service." Local Influence To ease into the suburb and build rapport with locals, Sam launched UNA UNA as a cafe by day, serving focaccia sandwiches, coffee, and specialty drinks and a bistro by night on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. "For many of our bistro customers, their first experience was actually trying our sandwiches. It's a great way to connect with the neighbourhood during the day, give people a chance to get to know us, and create a natural introduction to the bistro experience in the evenings." For nearly a century, Box Hill was deemed a dry zone. A hangover from Australia's temperance movement, the laws required residents to vote for a liquor licence to be granted to a new restaurant or venue, with residents facing fines if they failed to vote. As a result, Sam found that there was a gap for a bistro that offers quality cocktails and a relaxed drinking experience. The cocktail menu at UNA UNA is just that. Simple yet refined, reflecting Sam's 20 years of experience, including a stint in Japan. During the day, guests can sip from hand-shaken Italian Whipped Coffee Cream, Whipped Orange Coffee, and house-made Almond Lemon Soda and Walnut Cola. The specialty drinks are creative and refreshing, crafted with the same care and attention as the evening cocktails. From Little Things Like many people in hospitality, Sam always dreamt of opening his own place. "Nothing huge, just a small spot that really felt like me." The seeds of UNA UNA becoming a reality first emerged during COVID, when Sam stepped away from the fast-paced, relentless industry where he worked as a chef and bartender to become a stay-at-home dad. "I loved working in hatted restaurants and bars, but the pace is intense, and most nights I'd be getting home around 2 am," Sam reflects. "I realised I wanted to be more present for my family, and if I didn't start the bistro I'd been imagining for years, I might never do it. It just felt like the right moment to finally build something of my own." The result is restaurant-quality food in a casual bistro setting. "With the rising cost of living, people are more cautious about spending, so I didn't want UNA UNA to be a fine-dining restaurant with a big price tag." Instead, UNA UNA keeps it personal. Comprising of just four tables and a casual lounge area, Sam wanted to ensure that everyone could be looked after properly. For UNA UNA's menu, Sam says it had to be simple, classic, and free from gimmicks — no edible flowers or smoke gun just for Instagram. The Spring Dinner Menu was recently launched, featuring dishes such as Tuna Crudo, Chargrilled Calamari, Lamb Katsu, Tête de Moine, and the signature Roasted Duck Breast. "Our menu is simple but ambitious," says Sam. "We change it every three to four months to reflect what's in season and what's available at the markets. Box Hill has amazing fresh vegetables, meat, and fish stalls, so we make the most of that, keeping everything fresh, local, and full of flavour." At its core, UNA UNA is a reflection of its neighbourhood. Sam's 14-year-old son can often be found helping out on weekends, greeting customers and making coffees. His daughter, Una, tells her friends and teachers about "her coffee shop". "We want UNA UNA to be a place where people can come together — enjoy good food and drinks, and feel part of the community as the neighbourhood grows. It feels like one big extended family," says Sam. "UNA UNA is still young and evolving, and there are so many possibilities ahead — much like my kids, learning and growing every day." Visit UNA UNA. Image credit: UNA UNA
It's almost time to tick over into another trip around the sun. But before our current rotation is complete, we have to give this year a massive send-off that celebrates the ups and, hopefully, helps us forget the downs. Fortunately, this New Year's Eve in Brisbane is stacked, with these dining encounters, late-night parties and riverside events making for a memorable final night on the town. New Year's Eve at Mondrian Gold Coast Luxe hotel Mondrian Gold Coast presents a trio of coastal experiences for NYE. Signature restaurant Haven serves a grand feast, spanning a seafood tower, woodfired Kidman 5+ wagyu and 4.5 hours of premium drinks for $550 per person. Meanwhile, the vibe gets social at Haven Pool Club, with an openair celebration featuring live hibachi stations and handcrafted cocktails beneath the pines for $295 per person. Finally, laidback diner LiTO serves a breezy Italian feast paired with high-energy DJs for $150 per person. Find out more here. New Year's Eve Dinner at BŌS Brisbane Round out 2025 with a meat-heavy set menu at BŌS Brisbane. Priced at $160 per person, it kicks off with steak tartare, Hokkaido scallops and burrata, then shifts into mains like beef tenderloin, market fish and confit duck. If you're feeling extra lavish, add the optional wagyu upgrade. From 5pm, you're welcome to head upstairs to the Aviary Terrace for its Countdown & Cocktails event, featuring a free drink on arrival alongside fireworks views. Find out more here. Bigger Than Texas NYE Party at Lefty's Music Hall Ready for some honky-tonk fun? Brisbane's home of Americana, Lefty's Music Hall, is going big this NYE, throwing down a Texas-inspired shindig for the ages. Featuring live boot-scootin' tunes by the Rob Black Band, dance and sing your way to midnight decked out in your best country outfit. Entry-only tickets are available for $49.90 per person, while food and beverage packages start from $127. Find out more here. New Year's Eve Banquet Menu at Supernormal Brisbane Perched on the edge of the Brisbane River, happening Asian-inspired restaurant Supernormal Brisbane is serving up a stellar banquet menu from 5pm. Beginning with starters like Morton Bay bug toast and Supernormal's trademark New England lobster rolls, the main event includes steamed Murray cod and Stockyard wagyu striploin. Combined with uninterrupted fireworks views, martinis and champagne, you're invited to dine through the last night of 2025 for $190 per person. Find out more here. New Year's Eve Set Menu at Marlowe Restaurant Enter 2026 in style at Marlowe, as chef Ollie Hansford takes guests on a sumptuous seven-course journey for $190 per person. Featuring elevated dishes like wagyu and caviar rosti, lobster pie and a luxurious chocolate fondant, guests are welcome to level up with an optional $150 wine pairing. Here, Marlowe's sommelier has carefully selected the ideal vino from Australia and abroad to complement every dish. Find out more here. Premium Feast at Layla Launched in early 2025, Shane Delia's Layla is ready to round out a prosperous first year, inviting guests to dine on its Premium Feast for $145 per person. Conceived as a dining adventure that spans the spice trail, expect scallop and crab snacks, vibrant mezze, Westholme wagyu sirloin and a grilled Mooloolaba swordfish upgrade. Need more decadence? Try the oysters and sparkling add-on, with a dozen salty pearls and two glasses of bubbly available for $98. Find out more here. New Year's Eve at the Regatta Hotel Riverside institution the Regatta Hotel is transforming into a themed paradise for NYE 2025. On level one, it's all about Rio Carnival, with four hours of food and drink alongside a festive atmosphere bound to get you moving and shaking. Up a floor, the mood shifts to explore the elegant streets of Paris, with French-style cuisine and views of the venue's private fireworks show. With loads more to explore, tickets to individual events are available for $40–$295 per person. Find out more here.
After more than three decades on the road, Counting Crows are heading back Down Under. The Grammy-nominated rockers will return to Australia and New Zealand in March and April 2026 for The Complete Sweets! tour, marking their first visit in several years. Kicking off at Auckland's Kiri Te Kanawa Theatre on Sunday, March 23, the band will then head to Adelaide's Festival Theatre on March 27, Sydney's Enmore Theatre on March 29, and wrap things up at Melbourne's Palais Theatre on April 1. View this post on Instagram A post shared by adam d (@countingcrows) The tour celebrates over 30 years of the group's signature mix of heartfelt lyrics and melodic storytelling — the sound that made tracks like Mr. Jones and Accidentally in Love enduring favourites. Led by frontman Adam Duritz, Counting Crows continue to draw crowds around the world, praised for their powerful live performances and nostalgic setlists that blend hits with deep cuts. Tickets go on sale to the general public from Monday, October 20 at 11am local time, with Mastercard, One NZ and Live Nation pre-sales opening from Thursday, October 16. Counting Crows' 'The Complete Sweets!' tour hits Australia and New Zealand in March and April 2026. Visit Live Nation for full ticket details.
Though the news isn't a total surprise to anyone paying attention to Good Charlotte's social channels, or to anyone who spied the mysterious billboards around the nation, Good Charlotte has confirmed dates and venues for a 2026 ANZ tour. As per Rolling Stone AU/NZ, the US pop punk group have today confirmed a lineup of arena shows in Perth, Brisbane, Bendigo, Sydney and Auckland. Joining Good Charlotte for the tour will be fellow US heavyweights Yellowcard, and Australia's own Kisschasy. "Australia is such a special place to Good Charlotte and to me personally, it feels like a home away from home in many ways, and we can't wait to head back there for some big shows," Good Charlotte frontman Joel Madden said. "It's been far too long since we've spent time with our Aussie fans, we're all in for a big treat." [embed]https://open.spotify.com/album/5IbeeWff9kyS6ZU67NdyQD?si=uWyoDRgLQK-cBxUnpamSBg[/embed] In a recent interview with Rolling Stone AU/NZ in support of their latest album, Motel Du Cap – the US band's first album in seven years – Madden confirmed that they intend to hit Australia in early 2026 for arena shows around the country. "We were trying to surprise dates this year, but it's been too hard with something with the venues or something," Madden revealed. "I don't know. It's been too hard to get dates, whatever the complications have been this year, because we wanted to drop [the dates] around when the record comes. I think it'll be arena shows, so it's harder to move those things around. So I think we're gonna come as quickly as we can at the top of '26." [embed]https://youtu.be/-DfXG1IozRU?si=apjjTG76wTu04Y5d[/embed] "That's what we're talking about right now." Motel Du Cap is the band's first full-length release since 2018's Generation Rx. In 2020, Good Charlotte released the single "Last December." Since then, band leaders and brothers Joel and Benji Madden have focused on various business ventures outside of music, including livestream platform Veeps, Joel's Artist Friendly podcast, and an entire artist management company MDDN. [caption id="attachment_1033843" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Scott Dudelson/Getty Images[/caption] General public tickets go on sale from 11am on Monday, October 20th. Click here for more details and to view all the dates and venues.
Every two years, Sydney turns into one big art trail as the Biennale of Sydney rolls out exhibitions at major museums across the city, tied together by a thoughtful theme. Heading into its 25th edition, the 2026 biennale will spotlight the stories that have slipped through the cracks — either erased, overlooked or untold. In the 2024 edition, the biennale turned its gaze to the sun for the Ten Thousand Suns program. For its 2026 run, it's taken inspiration from a literary idol: in Toni Morrison's novel Beloved, the idea of 'rememory' describes how the past persists to be experienced again and again. The program will explore what it means to remember – and what it means when certain stories are forgotten— by bringing marginalised and diasporic narratives to the surface. [caption id="attachment_1049218" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Image supplied[/caption] Barbara Moore, CEO of the Biennale of Sydney, says, "The Biennale of Sydney is a platform for art and ideas that inspire, challenge and connect us. In this moment, more than ever, we need opportunities that invite us to step beyond our own perspectives [and] encounter experiences different from our own, to reflect on what binds us together, and to celebrate what makes us human." International names on the lineup include Nikesha Breeze, Dread Scott, Nahom Teklehaimanot, Tuấn Andrew Nguyễn, Joe Namy and Sandra Monterroso. Closer to home, the program features local talent such as Abdul Abdullah, Dennis Golding, Helen Grace, Wendy Hubert, Richard Bell, Merilyn Fairskye and Michiel Dolk. [caption id="attachment_1053037" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Image by Daniel Boud[/caption] The biennale has also partnered with Cartier's Paris-based art arm, Fondation Cartier pour l'art contemporain. The foundation has commissioned 15 First Nations artists to create new works of art in collaboration with its First Nations Curatorial Fellow Bruce Johnson McLean, who is also a Wierdi person of the Birri Gubba Nation. Indigenous artists globally have hopped onto the initiative, including: Native American interdisciplinary artist Cannupa Hanska Luger; sculptor Rose B. Simpson from the Santa Clara Pueblo tribe in New Mexico; acclaimed Yolngu artist Gunybi Ganambarr; and Tongan artist Benjamin Work, who is slated to present a sculptural tribute to the fusion of traditional Tongan dress with Western clothing. Exhibitions will dominate five arts institutions around Sydney, spanning the Arts Gallery of New South Wales, Campbelltown Arts Centre, Penrith Regional Gallery, Chau Chak Wing Museum, and White Bay Power Station (the once-sleepy industrial site that was turned into an arts hub by the 2024 Biennale of Sydney). Space out your art crawls with a jam-packed public program of evening gigs, crafty workshops and talks. We've compiled a handy guide of exhibitions and events to help you plan your route through the Biennale of Sydney 2026. White Bay Power Station [caption id="attachment_996125" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Image supplied[/caption] The biennale kicks off on March 13 with an opening party at White Bay Power Station, soundtracked to beats from local DJ INBRAZA Baile, First Nations-fronted Hand to Earth and Baltimore-born Nourished by Time. Keep an eye out for the car blasting music — it's part of 'Automobile', an elaborate sound installation by Lebanese artist and musician Joe Namy where he gathers local cars outfitted with tricked-out stereo systems that double up as instruments. Two landmark exhibitions will span the venue. One is Nikesha Breeza's 'Living Histories', an archive of stories from enslaved African Americans in the Antebellum South, set in a maze of floor-to-ceiling fabric columns that mimic the African Baobab tree. Another is a striking mural by Garrwa-Yanyuwa painter Nancy Yukuwal McDinny, capturing the post-colonial voices of the traditional custodians of the Gulf of Carpentaria. [caption id="attachment_1049220" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Image supplied[/caption] On Friday evenings, White Bay Power Station lights up with Arts After Dark. Three music lineups are locked in so far: March 20 brings ethereal melodies from celebrated Japanese experimental pop artist and composer Tujiko Noriko and a viola-meets-electronic-music set by Sydney-based composer Mara Schwerdtfeger; an electronic commentary by Kashmiri sound artist Ruhail Qaisar and local genre-defying musician Marcus Whale on March 27; and a strings-leaning night with Gomeroi guitarist Liam Keenan and Yorta Yorta bassist Allara Briggs-Pattison on April 3. The heritage-listed site will host a slate of Inner West Council events during the biennale. Attend talks curated by local storyteller Lillian Ahenkan, known by her stage name FlexMami, on March 28. Then on 11 and 12 April, a collection of six performance artworks by Amrita Hepi, Charlotte Farrell, Emma Maye Gibson, Jacqui O'Reilly, Lauren Brincat, Lulu Barkell, Theodore Carroll and Red Rey will take the venue by storm. Redfern [caption id="attachment_638226" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Image supplied[/caption] Redfern locals are in for something special. The Block has long been the beating heart of Indigenous communities in Sydney, and artist Dennis Golding will translate his memories of growing up there into a mini festival. Expect a beaded jewellery making workshop on May 10, where some of the beads are 3D printed from the bricks of the iconic Aboriginal Flag mural that once stood over The Block. Then, on April 9, enter a First Nations-led bingo night inspired by community games that used to be held regularly in one of the vacant Eveleigh Street terraces. Plus, there will be three monthly strolls around Redfern with long-time resident Aunty Donna Ingram, who will dive into the area's Aboriginal history. Art Gallery of New South Wales [caption id="attachment_1049224" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Image by Iwan Baan[/caption] Known for his collage-style canvases, internationally reowned Eritrean artist Nahom Teklehaimanot presents a trio of new large-scale canvases at the Art Gallery of New South Wales. Encapsulated by its title, This is My Silence You Name the Sound, the collection reflects on the complexities of refugees' lives. The 15-year-old Kulata Tjuta Project is also making a stop at the Art Gallery of New South Wales. Kulata Tjuta means 'many spears', a literal nod to the thousands of hand-carved spears (and counting) that make up the contemporary work. Anangu artist Frank Young started the project within the Amata community in the remote regions of South Australia in 2010 — it's since expanded to involve over 100 Aṉangu men spanning over three generations of spear-makers. Penrith Regional Gallery [caption id="attachment_1049221" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Image by Lyndal Irons[/caption] Just an hour from the city, Penrith Regional Gallery is an intimate homestead with a charming heritage garden. Settle in for a yarn on the grounds, now a sprawling native plant sanctuary nurtured by Yindjibarndi Elder Wendy Hubert. The living showcase of ancestral knowledge features native plants that are used for food, healing, and ceremony. Inside the home-studio-turned-gallery, Monica Rani-Rudhar draws on her lineage to stage a poignant multi-channel video installation that explores how two traces of colonialism — trauma and resistance — are inherited through generations. Campbelltown Arts Centre [caption id="attachment_1049223" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Image by Nikki To[/caption] Located in the creative hub of Campbelltown, the Campbelltown Arts Centre is shaping up to be an unmissable stop for film lovers during the Sydney Biennale. When riots erupt in youth detention centres, it's officially labelled a Code Black/Riot. It's also the name of a large-scale collaborative project that aims to amplify the voices of incarcerated Indigenous youths, spearheaded by documentary filmmaker Hoda Afshar. The collective bagged the 2025 National Photographic Prize, and is now making an appearance at the Biennale of Sydney 2026, with Behrouz Boochani, Hoda Afshar and Vernon Ah Kee presenting a multi-channel video exhibition at Campbelltown Arts Centre. Another highlight is the multimedia work of Lebanese filmmakers Joana Hadjithomas and Khalil Joreige, which follows a circle of friends who are setting off to Christmas Island. Their journey unfolds alongside the annual red crab migration, where a mass of crabs swarm from the forest to the ocean. The result? An immersive installation that interlaces movement, migration and imagined utopias. Chau Chak Wing Museum [caption id="attachment_1049222" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Image by David James[/caption] The much-loved museum at the University of Sydney will be home to two contrasting sculptures. One of them hails from Tāmaki Makaurau/Auckland, where artist Benjamin Work has created a celebratory tribute to the endurance of Indigenous culture, sparked by the 19th century fusion of Western influence with traditional Tongan attire. The other takes a critical approach, examining how Australian arts institutions have preserved Indigenous cultural material. Visit the Biennale of Sydney website for more information.
Come July, some of us will be feeling that Melbourne winter chill slightly more than others, as acclaimed New York artist Spencer Tunick returns to Australia to stage the next of his famed mass nude photographs. It's been 17 years since Melbourne's first taste of the polarising artist's work, when 4500 naked volunteers posed for a snap near Federation Square as part of the 2001 Fringe Festival. Tunick then photographed around 5000 nude people in front of the Sydney Opera House during the 2010 Mardi Gras. Since then, he's photographed the public painted red and gold outside Munich's Bavarian State Opera, covered in veils in the Nevada desert and covered in blue in Hull in the UK. Now the artist is set to return to our shores, and his sights are set on Melbourne's iconic Chapel Street. Tunick will assemble another contingent of naked (and pretty brave) folk this July, for a work titled Return of the Nude, as part of the precinct's winter arts festival Provocaré. "Chapel Street reminds me of the East Village in New York, Sunset Strip in LA, and San Francisco's Haight-Ashbury, but all combined into one juggernaut," said Tunick. "I think people from Melbourne are a little braver because of their willingness to pose no matter the weather. I get a sense of resilience and risk taking." Anyone over the age of 18 can get their kit off and get involved — Tunick hopes to have a diverse mix of bodies in the shoot, which will be held across two days in four locations around the iconic Chapel Street precinct. Participants each get a print of the photograph, and, we're sure, a big boost of body confidence. Hopefully not a cold, though — if you participate, you'll only need to be sans-clothes for short periods of time. Provocaré will take place across the Chapel Street precinct from July 5–15, with Return of the Nude being shot over two days between July 7 and 10. You can register to take part here.
In the modern world of entertainment, content can feel a little bit non-stop. There's always new things to watch, but a lot of it is better than ever. Each month, we're cutting through the streaming noise and helping you figure out what's worth bingeing on release day and what you can save for some downtime later in the year. Here are the new seasons and series we'll be watching in January. [caption id="attachment_1056313" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Apple TV[/caption] Pluribus — Mystery, Drama The long-awaited new series from Vince Gilligan, the creator of Breaking Bad, has been turning heads over its eight-episode run. The series follows Carol, the last person on Earth who isn't inexplicably, permanently, disturbingly cheery. In fact, she's miserable — but somebody has to save the world from happiness, and it may as well be her. Streaming on Apple TV now. [caption id="attachment_1056316" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] HBO Max/Warner Bros[/caption] IT: Welcome to Derry — Horror, Drama The young residents of Derry, Maine, just can't catch a break, no matter what decade they live in. This eight-episode prequel series to IT and IT: Chapter II dives deep into the bloody history of the town, and the centuries-long origins of the demonic, shapeshifting clown that's behind all the mayhem. Expect jumpscares, creepy vaudeville dancing and more than a few dead children. This one isn't for the faint of heart. Streaming on HBO Max now. [caption id="attachment_1056314" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Prime Video[/caption] The Mighty Nein — Animation, Action The second animated series from Dungeons and Dragons superstar crew Critical Role, The Mighty Nein follows a classic D&D crew of ragtag rogues, wizards and freaks, who just want to put their various traumatic pasts behind them and make some gold. But with a religious relic missing, killer wizards on their tail and a war breaking out between two kingdoms, it's time for this group to give the whole hero thing a go. Streaming on Prime Video now. [caption id="attachment_1056315" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Prime Video[/caption] Fallout: Season Two — Sci-Fi, Drama The second season of Prime Video's hit adaptation of the classic Fallout video game series will be released over the next few weeks. Lucy MacLean has left the comforts of the vault far behind her, and she's teamed up with the gunslinging Ghoul to track her father across the nuclear wasteland into the ruins of New Vegas. With a civil war brewing and corporate schemes unfolding, the end of the world isn't going to end quietly. Streaming on Prime Video weekly now. [caption id="attachment_1007323" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Netflix[/caption] Stranger Things V — Sci-Fi, Drama, Action Netflix's tentpole franchise is coming to a long-awaited end right when dawn breaks on 2026. The ongoing final season of Stranger Things will conclude for Aussie audiences with a finale releasing on New Year's Day. Some of you are nervous, some of you are relieved, but we're probably all going to tune in to see how our heroes in Hawkins put a stop to Vecna before the Upside Down can take over for good. Streaming on Netflix now. [caption id="attachment_1056255" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] HBO/Warner Bros[/caption] The Pitt: Season Two — Medical, Drama HBO's pulse-raising medical drama is back after an impressive 13 wins at the 2025 Emmy® Awards. Taking place on the front lines of a Pittsburgh hospital, the first season charted one shift, hour by hour, and the second season looks to do the same. In addition to saving lives on a shift during the Fourth of July (bet on firework-exploded hands), the Pitt team will also have to contend with internal politics as a new face makes an impact in the trauma ward. Streaming on HBO Max weekly from Friday, January 9. [caption id="attachment_1056254" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Prime Video[/caption] The Night Manager: Season Two — Espionage, Drama Tom Hiddleston is stepping back into the espionage world with the second season of Prime's acclaimed spy series, The Night Manager. This time, Hiddleston's Jonathan Pine is going after Colombian drug smugglers with ties to British intelligence, and must race to trust the right allies and take the right players off the board before a deep conspiracy threatens to destabilise a nation. Streaming on Prime Video Sunday, January 11. [caption id="attachment_1056253" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] HBO/Warner Bros[/caption] Industry: Season Four — Business, Drama The so-called Gen Z version of Succession is gearing up for a fourth season on HBO Max in January. At the top of the game in a life they were dreaming of in season one, Harper and Yasmin are thrust into a global game of cat-and-mouse when a fintech disruptor (headed up by Kit Harington as Sir Henry Muck) hits the London scene. With alliances becoming more and more tangled, the pressures of money and ambition threaten to push their friendship to dangerous new territory. Streaming on HBO Max weekly from Monday, January 12. [caption id="attachment_1056257" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Apple TV[/caption] Hijack: Season Two — Crime, Drama Idris Elba is starting to make a habit of ending up in hostage situations in a moving vehicle. Season one of this white knuckle, clock-ticking drama saw Elba as corporate negotiator Sam Nelson aboard a hijacked airline flight; now he's wound up negotiating for the lives of his fellow passengers again — this time on a train to Berlin. It might be time for Mr Nelson to start driving, or to just give up on travel altogether. Streaming on Apple TV weekly from Wednesday, January 14. [caption id="attachment_1056251" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] HBO/Warner Bros[/caption] A Knight of The Seven Kingdoms — Fantasy, Drama The third televised visit to Westeros will premiere in January. Unlike the world-reshaping events of Game of Thrones and the fiery, blood-soaked civil war unfolding in House of the Dragon — A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms is a much more personal story set right in the middle of the two series. Our new hero, Sir Duncan the Tall, just wants to be a good knight and honour his late mentor. Dragons have gone extinct, but he'll have to contend with bratty Targaryens and boisterous Baratheons on his quest. Maybe his young squire, Egg, will be helpful. Or maybe he comes with troubles of his own. Streaming on HBO Max weekly from Monday, January 19. [caption id="attachment_1056272" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] FX/Disney[/caption] FX'S The Beauty — Sci-Fi, Crime In this new FX original series, FBI Agents Madsen (Evan Peters) and Bennett (Rebecca Hall) investigate a series of grisly supermodel deaths, they stumble across an international conspiracy that threatens the future of the entire human race. As they get closer to the truth, they end up in the crosshairs of the mysterious "The Corporation" (Ashton Kutcher), who will stop at nothing to protect his trillion-dollar empire. Streaming on Disney+ weekly from Thursday, January 22. [caption id="attachment_1056271" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Marvel Television?Disney[/caption] Marvel's Wonder Man — Superhero, Action The latest small screen addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe might be its most mysterious yet. Wonder Man follows aspiring actor Simon Williams (Yahha Abdul-Mateen II), who meets veteran actor Trevor Slattery (Ben Kingsley) — still fixing his public image after his terrorism stint in Iron Man 3 — they're both vying for a role in the remake of a film called 'Wonder Man' from a reclusive director. Marvel is keeping their cards close to the chest for this, because we're wondering — are there any superheroes in this new addition to Hollywood's biggest superhero franchise? Streaming on Disney+ weekly from Wednesday, January 28. [caption id="attachment_1056281" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Apple TV[/caption] Shrinking: Season Three — Feel-Good, Comedy Pairing Jason Segel with Harrison Ford in his first-ever major TV role was a big swing for Apple TV+, but after seven Emmy nominations and two seasons, it looks like a winning formula. The feel-good comedy returns at the tail end of January for a third season, no doubt following on from the heart-warming season two finale with more musings on grief and good old fashioned human-to-human connections. Streaming on Apple TV weekly from Wednesday, January 28. FYI, this story includes some affiliate links. These don't influence any of our recommendations or content, but they may make us a small commission. For more info, see Concrete Playground's editorial policy.
For the people who care deeply about beautiful things — the ones who know their glassware silhouettes, have opinions on timber grains or can spot a well-cut bag from across a room — design-forward gifts always land best. This year's edit brings together thoughtful pieces from Australian makers and independent studios, spanning sculptural homewares, tactile accessories, sustainable fashion and objects that balance form with function. Whether they're curating their space piece by piece or simply appreciate good design in the everyday, these polished picks offer style, utility and a little artistic flair. Shopping for someone who prefers edible design? Explore our guide to the best small-batch foodie gifts. Balance Vase, Fazeek A sculptural glass vase that plays with symmetry and scale, this two-tone design turns a simple stem into a full display moment. Shop now. The Baguette Bag, Fred Home A bag made purely for carrying a baguette? Equal parts outrageous and totally gorgeous. Shop now. Incense Holder Bundle, Gentle Habits A ceramic holder paired with the brand's signature coastal-inspired incense blends. Shop now. Merino Alpaca Throw in Cobalt, Hommey A luxe throw woven from merino wool and alpaca, in a punchy cobalt tone to instantly elevates any space. Shop now. Ulna Ring (Emerald), Kto Made in Castlemaine, this cuttlefish-cast silver ring is a sculptural addition to any design lover's collection. Shop now. Roman Pool Towel, Baina A premium organic cotton towel featuring Baina's signature checkerboard pattern. Shop now. Sculptural Lobster Candle, Milligram A candle shaped like a lobster — do we need to say more? Witty, sculptural and very giftable. Shop now. Pin Drop Vessel, Leisa Wharington A playful hand-blown glass vessel with mix-and-match stoppers. Make it a bottle, a vase, or simply an objet d'art. Shop now. The Bronzing Duet, Fluff Fluff's unmistakable silver pebble compact, paired with a matching kabuki brush and a refillable bronzing powder. Shop now. Plaid Bag, Pan After A durable, handmade statement bag in bold woven plaid — made from 100 percent recycled nylon. Shop now. MECCA x E Nolan SPF + Lip Balm Beauty Bag Set, MECCA Cosmetica A fashion-meets-beauty collab pairing everyday essentials with a limited-edition scrunchie and pouch. Shop now. Long Stone Servers, Dinosaur Designs Hand-poured in Australia, these resin servers showcase Dinosaur Designs' signature organic forms and rich marbled colour. Shop now. Sakura Outdoor Mat, Sunnup Made from around 100 recycled polypropylene bottles, this picnic mat is as durable as it is chic. Shop now. Organica Day Bag, Brie Leon Spacious enough for daily essentials but refined enough for after-dark plans — and crafted from buttery vegan leather. Shop now. Mother of Pearl Oyster Plate, Jardan Crafted in Melbourne and slipcast to highlight natural texture, this Nattier oyster plate offers a fun take on functional serveware. Shop now. Organic Cotton Bedding in Watson Stripe, Sheet Society Soft, stonewashed organic cotton and quiet ruched detailing give this percale bedding set a refined, lived-in feel. Shop now. FYI, this story includes some affiliate links. These don't influence our recommendations, but they may make us a small commission. For more info, see Concrete Playground's editorial policy.
Music is about more than just a great tune — it also has the power to inform and inspire action. That's the idea behind the Environmental Music Prize — a $20,000 prize launched in 2022 awarded to artists exploring ideas around sustainability and conservation in their music. With voting open until Sunday, December 14, the public is invited to have their say on the tracks that get them reflecting on the importance of nature. Just choose three choice tunes and share them with your pals to help spread the word about music that speaks to the kind of world we want to live in. [caption id="attachment_1052482" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Debbie Hickey/Getty Images[/caption] "Music reminds us of what's at stake, but it also gives us hope," says Prize Founder Edwina Floch. "These songs capture the beauty of nature, the spirit of Country and the resilience of communities rising to protect it. Together, they form a powerful soundtrack for now." With the 30 finalist songs now revealed, each is jam-packed with lyrical meaning and taken to even greater heights with evocative music videos. Think King Stingray's Through the Trees, Angie McMahon's Mother Nature or DOBBY's Dirrpi Yuin Patjulinya, alongside dozens more. "Music connects where other messages can't," explains Floch. "By voting and sharing these songs, fans can help amplify the voices of artists shaping a more sustainable culture, because change begins in the stories we tell and the songs we sing." With this year's prize announced on Wednesday, December 17, the highest voted artist will join much-loved past winners like King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard and Xavier Rudd. Both donated the money to grassroots conservation initiatives, giving even more meaning to their songwriting prowess. Voting for the 2025 Environmental Music Prize closes on Sunday, December 14. Head to the website for more information.
The Lord of the Rings is turning 25 in 2026 — and one of the many ways you can celebrate a quarter century since the destruction of the One Ring is by listening to a candlelit rendition of its legendary score. The soundtracks of the fantasy films to end all fantasy films will get a string quartet treatment in cities across Australia thanks to Candlelight®: The Lord of the Rings. Presented by Fever and Warner Bros. Discovery Global Experiences, the intimate concert series will recreate the iconic scores composed by Howard Shore in a smaller scale, but just as emotionally sweeping, format. From the humble tunes of the Shire to the stirring sounds of the plains of Rohan, and beyond, it's a trip to Middle-earth that you won't be forgetting any time soon. Tickets are limited, but you can join the waitlist now. "We are proud to be partnering with Warner Bros. Discovery Global Experiences to host this unforgettable Candlelight concert series celebrating such a significant milestone as the 25th anniversary of The Lord of the Rings," said Isabel Solano, Global Vice President of Original Experiences at Fever. "With Candlelight®: The Lord of the Rings, we're paying tribute to the epic music from the timeless classic that continues to inspire generations and reinforcing our mission to make classical music accessible to every audience while celebrating some of the world's greatest composers." Candlelight®: The Lord of the Rings will be coming to Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney throughout early 2026. Adelaide shows will take place across two nights in February at the Capri Theatre, with Perth to follow at shows in March and April at Perth Town Hall. Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane dates are yet to be confirmed, but will take place at the Sydney Masonic Centre, Collingwood Town Hall and Saint John's Anglican Cathedral, respectively. For more information, or to join the waitlist for 'Candlelight®: The Lord of the Rings', visit the Fever website.
It's not every day you get to hang out with a Hollywood A-lister and step into a fully immersive experience that's as close to the Land of Oz as you'll ever likely encounter. Yet that's precisely what's going down just outside Los Angeles, as Airbnb celebrates the release of Wicked: For Good with the launch of Elphaba's Retreat. Made for Wicked fanatics, this one-of-a-kind experience and overnight stay is worth the international adventure alone. Taking place on Wednesday, December 3, superstar Cynthia Erivo — aka Elphaba in the films — is inviting 20 guests to discover Elphaba's Retreat through a three-hour experience. Stepping into a picture-perfect refuge, those selected will have the chance to hang out with the Grammy, Emmy, Tony-winning and three-time Academy Award nominee that goes far beyond a simple meet-and-greet. On the day, you'll sip tea by the fireside with Cynthia, while a sommelier serves a special blend steeped in forest flora. Then, guests undertake a guided exploration, revealing easter eggs and authentic artifacts from the movies before taking part in a multi-sensory sing-along that brings the Ozian Forest to life. Finally, there's still time for a creative workshop where you'll weave your own witch's broom from willow, moss, poppies and more. Yet this fantastical adventure gets even better for a lucky guest and their plus-one who experience Elphaba's Retreat through an overnight stay. With the witch heading out of town for the night on Saturday, December 6, this whimsical accom filled with whispers will serve as a peaceful after-dark hideaway. Throughout the night, guests can expect a quiet meal and an enchanting evening of non-stop stargazing. Ready to change for good? Guests can now request to book the experience with Cynthia Erivo on the Airbnb website for free, with submissions closing at 2am AEST on Thursday, November 14. At the same time, guests can request to book the overnight stay — you'll have until 2am AEST on Friday, November 21, to submit. Designed as the ultimate Wicked experience, there's no better way to get immersed in Elphaba's world. "Elphaba taught me that our differences are what makes us powerful," says Cynthia Erivo. "Her story transformed me, and I can't wait to share that journey with you." Submissions for the Airbnb Wicked: For Good experience close at 2am AEST on Thursday, November 14, while booking requests for the overnight stay remain open until 2am AEST on Friday, November 21. Head to the website for more information.
You should never be too far away from German beer, huge plates of pork and salty pretzels — or that seems to be Brisbane's new motto, at least. Just weeks after Munich Brauhaus opened its doors in South Bank, and a year after The Bavarian set up shop in Chermside, the city has now welcomed another huge Deutsch-themed haunt: the Bavarian Beerhaüs in the King Street precinct. Along with Bavarian Bier Cafe at Eagle Street Pier, the whole lot are run by Rockpool Dining Group, if you're wondering who's responsible for this tasty German onslaught. For the company's latest effort, it has set up a 350-seat beer hall that takes inspiration from its RNA Showgrounds setting, all within the old Royal Snack Bar. Yes, that means brews paired with carnival-style food — as well as the expected pork overload, of course. The Bavarian Beerhaüs boasts 40 beer taps pumping out a range of German draught beers, which the venue claims is the largest selection in Queensland. A selection of Australian craft beers is also on offer for those sipping brews in the 150-seat beer garden — or thirsty patrons can opt for a sizeable range of schnapps, espresso martinis on tap or frozen margaritas. Food-wise, there are two components to the menu. Firstly, German-style dishes such as pork knuckle, pork belly, schnitzels, sausages and shared meat platters feature heavily, alongside barbecue fare like coffee-spice rubbed pork ribs and spice-rubbed wagyu. If it's something Ekka-style that you're after, however, then tuck into dagwood dogs, chicken wings, hot dogs, loaded fries and even a strawberry sundae. Even better — complimentary snacks, including mini loaded fries, dagwood dogs and chicken wings, are available with drinks between 4-6pm daily. The entire place blends its brewhouse vibe with modern touches — think concrete, brick walls, an exposed ceiling and vintage decor — and throws in plenty of activities to keep the fairground theme going. Weekly ping pong tournaments, trivia nights, comedy and games afternoons are all part of Bavarian Beerhaüs' regular entertainment lineup, with two days of partying getting things started across May 26-27. That includes a two-day beer carnival, plus two days of 10-cent chicken wings and $2 hot dogs as well.
Come summer in Brisbane, everyone is always searching for ways to cool off. Hiding in air-conditioned comfort is one approach to beating the heat, but having fun outside is all part of living in Queensland. That's where Brisbane's outdoor pools come in, offering the ideal way to escape the warm temperatures while still enjoying the city's sultry climate. Throughout the length and breadth of the city, there's plenty of places to take a dip, both during sun-strewn hours and balmy evenings. So where should you enjoy a swim, splash around and soak away the scorching temperatures? Here's eight of the best outdoor pools in Brisbane to try out. Some are free, and entry to others only costs $2 all summer long. [caption id="attachment_741063" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Cieran Murphy[/caption] Spring Hill Baths There's much to enjoy at the city oasis that is the Spring Hill Baths: the central location, the year-round operating hours and the heated waters, just to name a few of its many conveniences. There's also aqua aerobics classes, if something more than a waterlogged chill-out session is your thing. So far, so good — and then there's the historical angle. The heritage-listed swimming spot's main claim to fame is its status Brisbane's first in-ground pool, and it comes complete with classic-styled changing rooms and grandstand seating as a result. Whether pacing laps for fitness, or getting wet during a dive-in movie when the pop up, there's no other place like this rare water-dwelling gem. [caption id="attachment_777649" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Kgbo via Wikimedia Commons[/caption] Valley Pool You've driven, walked and probably even stumbled past the distinctive red brick building on the edges of Fortitude Valley numerous times, but have you ever been inside? If you went to high school in Brisbane, you may have been bussed in to the Valley Pool for your annual swimming carnival; however, there's more to the Wickam Street icon than sporting competitions and screaming teenagers. Designed by city architect AH Foster and built in 1925, the high walls hold within the usual array of aquatic activities, as well as an inimitable open-air atmosphere. This might just be Brisbane's coolest swimming hole (pun intended) — and you can hire a bar for events there. [caption id="attachment_904761" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Brisbane City Council via Flickr[/caption] Centenary Aquatic Centre Another venue keeping things wet and wild within a stone's throw of the CBD, the Centenary Aquatic Centre doesn't just let you bathe in a heated pool, or bask in the sun at the pool deck cafe — it also lets you dive into the action. If jumping from great heights into refreshing waters below sounds like your idea of a good time (and it does, admit it), then this is the place to go. Make no mistake, the operational diving platform is an undeniable drawcard for Spring Hill's second water wonderland. You can also get sweaty before your swim by visiting the on-site health club. Streets Beach at South Bank Nothing says inner-city swimming like Streets Beach at South Bank Parklands, as man-made as that beach may be. Perhaps the vantages over the brown Brisbane River make it seem more appealing, or perhaps it's the holiday-like vibe that emanates from the sight of sand and water so far from a coastline; either way, Brisbane's only beach in the middle of the city is a lagoon-like landmark. There may be no surf, but there is plenty of sun and fun. Don't forget, South Bank also boasts two other aqua spaces: the boat pool, lapping closer to the river's edge; and the Aquativity interactive water-play park. [caption id="attachment_973605" align="alignnone" width="1920"] John Robert McPherson via Wikimedia Commons[/caption] Ithaca Swimming Pool When it comes to location, few outdoor pools can beat Ithaca Swimming Pool in Brisbane, nestled as it is among the leafy expanses of Paddington and across the road from Suncorp Stadium. Cafes, bars and restaurants are just a short stroll up the street for those in search of some post-swim refreshments (if the dip itself hasn't done the relaxing trick, that is). The nearby highways might be bustling; however, inside the grass-lined confines of the complex, there's nothing but serenity. Splash about in the saltwater pool, or read a book in one of the many shady areas — the choice is yours. [caption id="attachment_777652" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Brisbane City Council[/caption] Colmslie Aquatic Centre Located within the Colmslie Recreation Reserve at Morningside are two pools and a water play park just waiting to get you wet. The Colmslie Aquatic Centre may be a relatively newer addition to Brisbane's map of public swimming spots, opening in 2010, but it remains an enticing one nonetheless. Both pools are heated and accessible all-year round, and play host to squad training as well as fitness classes. Head to nearby Oxford Street at Bulimba afterwards for a bite to eat, bring a picnic in the park next door or drop a reel at the on-site fishing platform to perfect your summery excursion. [caption id="attachment_643649" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Brisbane City Council via Flickr[/caption] Wynnum Wading Pool Brisbane isn't a beach city, but venture out of the CBD, away from the shadows of tall buildings and past the suburban sprawl, and you can find the holy grail of outdoor pools. Yes, if you head east until you can't go any further, you'll find a fine example of a man-made area filled from the sea and replenished by the tide. Built during the 1930s depression as part of the Unemployment Relief System, the Wynnum Wading Pool is the ideal place to enjoy the warm weather with an ocean view. Swim, wander along with your feet in the water, breathe in the sea breeze and even spot a few migrating crabs or two. Isn't that what everyone wants to do? It is clearly one of the best outdoor pools in Brisbane. [caption id="attachment_973609" align="alignnone" width="1920"] John via Flickr[/caption] Settlement Cove Lagoon Sure, there are plenty of beaches north of Brisbane, but not everyone has a few hours to spend on a road trip. If you're after some natural watery bliss but don't want to drive too far to get your fix, head to the Settlement Cove Lagoon at Redcliffe. Overlooking Moreton Bay, the site offers sand and sun right next to the surf, as well as wading and swimming areas for those who prefer their dips to be free from the ebbs and flows of the tide. Like all great waterside locations, Settlement Cove also features barbecues and picnic tables, because nothing says summer in Brisbane like a swim followed by a feast of grilled meat. You can find Abbott's Bakery products at all major supermarkets — and discover more tasty sandwich recipes via its website.
Hospitality workers are the backbone of our cities' night-time economies. After serving us behind the bar or recommending the chef's special that'll have you coming back for more, hospitality workers also keep the city open and thriving post-shift. From the quiet corners to the go-to bars and late-night venues that look after the people who look after everyone else, we tapped a couple of hospitality legends on the shoulder to learn where they head once the kitchen closes. After all, the night-time economy is a significant part of the Australian lifestyle. The Visa Vibe Economy report, commissioned by Visa and conducted by McCrindle, explores spending habits related to Australia's night-time economy, 32 percent of Australians consider going out "extremely" or "very important" to their lifestyle. It also found that nearly half of Australians go out after dark at least once a week, on average. Here's where the industry insiders in your city are heading. [caption id="attachment_810673" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Grana, Jiwon Kim[/caption] Alex Wong, Executive Chef at Hinchcliff House, Sydney: Lana, Grana, Apollonia, Bar Mammoni, Grana Privato CP: What do you love about the hospitality industry? Alex: I love this industry for the people and the lifestyle. I love being busy, being able to express myself through food, and working alongside like-minded people — there's a real sense of camaraderie and adrenaline that comes with it. You meet so many different people from all walks of life. It's given me confidence, taught me how to stand up for myself, and to grab every opportunity that comes my way. CP: Where do you head after a long shift? Alex: After a long shift or a big Saturday night, I love heading to Mamas on Pitt Street for some soju and supper — their fishcake soup hits perfectly in winter with a few bottles of soju. Super Bowl is another great late-night spot; their Hong Kong–style curry fish balls, noodles, and BBQ meats really slap. If there's time (and energy), a sneaky karaoke session after never hurts. CP: What's your favourite thing about your city after dark? Alex: I've always been a night owl. I love the calm that comes with night — and the little bit of chaos, too. Sydney after dark has so much to offer: great bars for a drink or nightcap, incredible restaurants and wine bars, or just soaking up the city lights. The Friday night Chinatown markets are a classic foodie stop, and walking across the Harbour Bridge at night never gets old. [caption id="attachment_1006447" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Baptist Street, Alana Dimou[/caption] Mahbub Hasan, CBD Precinct Bars Leader for House Made Hospitality, Sydney CP: What do you love about the hospitality industry? Mahbub: The chance to create moments that actually mean something to people. It's noticing small details, picking up on what someone needs without them having to ask, and making them feel looked after. I love that a bit of genuine care can turn a random interaction into a memory. There's something special about watching someone walk in tired and stressed from their day, and leave softer, lighter, and happier. That little shift, that connection, is the reason I keep showing up. CP: Where do you head after a long shift? Mahbub: After a late shift in the city, I love decompressing somewhere with soul. Often, that means making my way to Baptist Street Rec. Club in Redfern — great energy, familiar faces, and the perfect spot to shake off work mode. If I'm in the mood for a proper vibe shift, Disco Pantera hits the spot. It has music loud enough to reset your brain and cocktails good enough to make you forget how tired you are. When I want to stay closer to home, I keep it local. Sometimes it's The Vic on the Park, nothing fancy, just comfort and that Inner West feeling. Other nights I'll drift down Enmore Road. And there are nights where I just want to be home-adjacent, so I'll end up in Newtown. Bar Planet for a martini, or Silvers Motel for something slower. Those places remind me that there's a world outside of work. Real people, real community. CP: What's your favourite thing about your city after dark? Mahbub: Sydney at night feels like a different city. No suits, chaos drops away, and everything slows down. You start to notice things, little conversations, laughter spilling out of small bars, chefs and bartenders having their first breath of freedom outside the venue. It feels like a secret world that only exists after everyone else goes home, a world for the night people, hospitality people, and wanderers. [caption id="attachment_795639" align="alignleft" width="1920"] The Gresham, Millie Tang[/caption] Jaeden Ogston, Bartender, The Gresham, Brisbane CP: What do you love about the hospitality industry? Jaeden: I love hearing people's stories and enjoy the little moments of sonder. Hospitality, and especially working at The Gresham, allows me to meet and engage with such a diverse range of people that I would otherwise never meet. Whether they're regulars or just passing through, it's something really special to be able to connect and create memorable moments for people. CP: Where do you head after a long shift? Jaeden: Straight to Frogs Hollow. It's an authentic Country Saloon Bar that does good times perfectly. It's somewhere I know I can go to see familiar faces, and round out a long day with a 'hell yeah'. The bartenders provide some of the best hospitality in Brisbane and are among the most beautiful people I know. Frogs Hollow also has a rad bourbon selection and Brisbane's best XXXX Gold on tap. Other than that, it'd be Savile Row in Fortitude Valley (just look for the orange door). It's an awesome London-esque speakeasy-style bar that has a back-bar for days. It's cosy yet uptempo, and once again, the staff are not only legends of their trade but also wonderful people themselves. Whilst you're on that side of town, also check out Barry Parade Public House, which just celebrated its first anniversary. The owner, Dan, used to be my boss at The Gresham, and he's taken his love of vintage spirits, classic cocktails and soul food, and he and co-owner Brennan have made it into a beautiful, neighbourhood bar. [caption id="attachment_946892" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Frogs Hollow[/caption] CP: What's your favourite thing about your city after dark? Jaeden: Brisbane, in the grand scheme of things, is still a small city. What's beautiful about this is that if I ever just feel like going out and exploring and seeing where the night takes me, I know I'll bump into a familiar face on either side of the bar. Also, you can walk to almost everything... and whatever vibe you're looking for, whether it's a dive, speakeasy, jazz club or brewery, it's right at your fingertips. [caption id="attachment_932926" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Dear Saint Eloise[/caption] Frankie Stanley, Events and Marketing Manager at The London Hotel, Sydney CP: What do you love about the hospitality industry? Frankie: I love that hospitality is all about people! Meeting people, connecting with them, and being part of their day or night. It's fast, unpredictable and addictive in the best way. Unlike many office jobs, you might be running up 48 flights of stairs on a random Monday, but there is nothing more satisfying than the energy when a room is full of happy people and everything is running smoothly. CP: Where do you head after a long shift? Frankie: After a long shift, I love going to Potts Point or Darlinghurst to their many small wine bars. There's so much love in what they offer, and the vibes are always on point. Caravin and Dear Saint Eloise, both in Potts Point and The Waratah in Darlinghurst, are favourites! Gorgeous food, sexy drinks, and incredible staff. CP: What's your favourite thing about your city after dark? Frankie: I love Sydney after dark, especially as we move into summer. Longer days, warm nights, and everyone wanting to be out and about. With more councils approving outdoor seating, the city finally feels like it's leaning into that European, sit-out-and-soak-it-in vibe. The London just got its parklet approved after nine months and it has completely lifted the vibe. It's brought so much life to the street. I hope we see more of this across Sydney to keep nightlife thriving. Emma Sheahan, Front of House Manager, Lumen People, Melbourne CP: What do you love about the hospitality industry? Emma: Having guests sit at my table and connecting with them. I love meeting so many interesting people and working side by side with them. CP: Where do you head after a long shift? Emma: Brico or Lulie Tavern. Brico's food and wine are exceptional. What brings me back time and time again is their hospitality. I always walk in and feel immediate relief. I'm home. I'm cared for, no matter who I bring or why I'm there, they'll take care of us. Lulie is the champion of Melbourne music and community. It's been a huge part of my social life. Engagements, special birthdays, celebrations and sad times: Lulie always has a seat for you! The burgers are also really good. [caption id="attachment_868486" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Jake Roden[/caption] CP: What's your favourite thing about your city after dark? Emma: Melbourne's live music. I love living in a city big enough to support so many incredibly talented artists. Discover the vibe near you. Lead image credit: Bar Planet
Already in 2024, South Brisbane has scored a British pub, a boozy mini-golf hangout, a new burger joint and a poke spot. Next up: Calida, the latest eatery to join South Bank's Little Stanley Street precinct. Giving this part of the inner city a new Argentinian steakhouse, it hails from Alemré Hospitality Group, which is expanding a portfolio that includes Olé Restaurant, Mucho Mexicano, Vici Italian and Downtown Istanbul. Announced in early June, open since the middle of the same month and seating 180, Calida naturally has plenty of meat on its menu. Think: empanadas to start with; dishes such bistec tartar, marinated lamb rump skewers, pressed beef short ribs, chorizo pork sausages and slow-cooked whole lamb shoulder; and an array of different cuts of steak from the grill, all served with chimichurri sauce and Australian red gum smoked salt. Even the bread comes with a beef jus. If it's sizzling steak that tempts your tastebuds, the options under Alemré Executive Group Chef Adam Starr's guidance all use S.Kidman beef — whether you're eager for a 220-gram eye fillet, 300-gram sirloin or 400-gram wagyu rump. And if you're keen to sample several choices without having to make too many decisions, you have two ways to go about it: a $120 mixed-grill platter for two or a $63 banquet with a minimum of two diners, with the latter also covering a dulce de leche sandwich cookie for dessert. Those keen for seafood instead can pick between span oysters with vinegar and chives, grilled octopus with potato salad, salmon ceviche and grilled barramundi. There's also a number of cheese-heavy dishes for vegetarians, including ricotta and mozzarella empanadas, smoked baked cheese and roasted portobello mushrooms with manchego cheese. And for sweets beyond the dulce de leche sandwich cookie, Calida offers dulce de leche lava cake with vanilla ice cream; guava and passionfruit mousse with flourless white-chocolate sponge; and the traditional Argentinian torta rogel made from layers of crisp pastry and vanilla meringue, plus, yes, dulce de leche. Whatever satisfies your stomach, you can wash it down with wine from both Argentina and Europe, Quilmes beer and Latin-inspired cocktails such as the Fernet con coca — aka Fernet-Branca and Coke. If you order a Margarita de Roca, one of the restaurant's signature sips, you'll be enjoying tequila, dragonfruit, and jalapeño. With the Mermalada, bourbon and marmalade combine. And for something that catches the eye as well, the ¡Viva la Argentina! layers gin, blue curaçao and citrus flavours. Going for a warm vibe to match its food, Calida's design aesthetic favours raw brick and stonework, moody lighting and Argentinian textiles — and, if you're sitting in the booths, look out for the ficus. The fitout backdrops not just everyday meals, but also events focused on the country in the eatery's spotlight, Latin celebrations more generally, and beef and wine dinners. In other words, you have a heap of reasons to head by more than once. Find Calida at 164c Grey Street, South Brisbane — open 11.30am–9pm Sunday–Thursday and 11.30am–10pm Friday–Saturday. Head to the venue's website for further details.
Voila! The Four Horsemen are hitting Australia, in magical news if you like illusionists and the Now You See Me film franchise. Back in 2018, it was announced that the Jesse Eisenberg (A Real Pain)-, Woody Harrelson (Last Breath)-, Dave Franco (Together)- and Isla Fisher (Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy)-starring cinema saga was making its way to the stage — and while that's proven the case elsewhere since, the IRL production will make its first trip to Australia before 2025 is out. Now You See Me Live doesn't feature the cast of the films, but gets real-life illusionists demonstrating their skills instead. Their Aussie stop: the Sydney Opera House Concert Hall across Friday, December 19, 2025–Saturday, January 3, 2026. Audiences will be able to see Adam Trent from the US, Enzo Weyne from France, Andrew Basso from Italy and Gabriella Lester from South Africa step into the Four Horsemen's shoes. From Trent, expect plenty of sleight of hand, while Weyne specialises in large-scale magic. Basso prefers death-defying acts and Lester is a master of Houdini's upside down straight-jacket escape. The ensemble have taken to the stage for residencies on Broadway and in Las Vegas, and also in hundreds of other cities. Now, it's Australia's turn. "Hosting an Australian-premiere season at the Opera House is always a thrill, and this show is a spectacle — perfect for anyone with an appetite to be wowed this summer. Now You See Me Live takes movie magic to a whole new level of drama in this high-stakes live experience," said Brenna Hobson, Sydney Opera House Director, Programming, announcing the shows. Added Simon Painter, the production's Creative Producer, "Now You See Me Live pushes the boundaries of stage magic to the absolute edge, making the impossible possible in front of your very eyes. Together we've created a show with truly mindblowing artistry at epic scale and we can't wait for Sydney audiences to experience the magic — live!" 2025 is a big Now You See Me year: a new movie in the franchise is on its way to cinemas, too, with Now You See Me: Now You Don't releasing in Aussie picture palaces on Thursday, November 13, 2025. Check out the trailer for Now You See Me Live below: Now You See Me Live is playing the Sydney Opera House Concert Hall across Friday, December 19, 2025–Saturday, January 3, 2026. Head to the venue website for more information — with presale tickets from 9am on Tuesday, August 26, 2025 and general tickets from 9am on Wednesday, August 27, 2025.
After winning a devoted following at Cibaria on Sydney's Manly beachfront, Alessandro Pavoni and Anna Pavoni have brought their breezy all-day Italian trattoria north, opening Cibaria Noosa on Hastings Street. Sitting within the newly unveiled Elysium Noosa Resort — the former Sofitel Noosa — the Sunshine Coast outpost delivers the same warm hospitality and polished comfort fare that's made the original a much-loved local favourite. Designed as a lively social hub in the spirit of an Italian piazza, the expansive venue unfolds across several zones. There's a 120-seat main dining room, open daily from 11.30am and extends into a 60-seat openair terrazza overlooking the resort pool, while Bar Capri seats up to 100 for everything from early-morning breakfasts to sun-washed aperitivo hour and elegant nightcaps. Wherever you land, the throughline is one of shared plates, generous pours and unhurried socialising. [caption id="attachment_1054489" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Markus Ravik[/caption] In the kitchen, Head Chef Lucas Bach — whose CV includes Michelin-starred Meo Modo in Tuscany and the Pavonis' two-hatted Sydney restaurant Ormeggio at the Spit — delivers a menu that balances Cibaria Manly favourites with new dishes inspired by Queensland's coastal bounty. Leading the charge are crudi and chilled seafood, from yellowfin tuna crudo lifted with green chilli, smoked salmon roe and chives to a signature poached king prawn cocktail featuring finger lime, cos and a rich salsa aurora. Premium salumi and both hot and cold antipasti round out the snack-and-sip selection. From there, the menu broadens into handmade pastas, including spaghetti aglio e olio finished with Mooloolaba tuna crudo and risotto al granchio with Queensland spanner crab and Noosa red tomatoes, before moving into wood-grilled mains and shareable bistecca. Highlights include dry-aged Mooloolaba swordfish with Trapanese pesto and mustard leaves, plus a standout 400-gram Rangers Valley black angus sirloin cooked on the bone over flame. [caption id="attachment_1054486" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Elise Hassey[/caption] Bar Capri, meanwhile, presents a deliberately less structured proposition. Open from early morning for coffee, pastries and breakfast pizzette, the Hastings Street-facing bar slides seamlessly into a relaxed all-day hangout. Snackable plates anchor the menu, from freshly shucked oysters and scallop crudo with lemon oil and finger lime to fritto misto, lasagne fritters and crostini topped with kingfish crudo or wagyu tartare. Larger bites — like a wagyu cheeseburger, chicken schnitzel club and classic tiramisu — might entice you to settle in a little longer. Drinks lean Italian, with a spritz-forward cocktail list designed for aperitivo hour and long afternoons. Alongside classics like the americano and negroni sbagliato, you'll find house signatures such as the rosemary-scented Capri Spritz, as well as an Italian-focused wine list, beers on tap and a deep bench of rum, whisky and digestivi. Interiors by Mitchell & Eades channel relaxed Mediterranean glamour, with gentle citrus hues and softly textured finishes layered alongside sea-inspired blues. It strikes a well-judged balance between casual coastal ease and polish, resulting in a venue that feels just as welcoming for a quick post-beach spritz as it does for lingering evenings. [caption id="attachment_1054487" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Elise Hassey[/caption] Top images: Elise Hassey.
The beer festival scene will look a little different in 2026, as one of the country's premier events, GABS, or the Great Australasian Beer SpecTAPular, is being paused for the year. But don't fear, the announcement comes with the assurance that it will return in 2027 with a reimagined format that does the event's legacy justice. The news was revealed by Dr Jerry Schwartz, owner of Sydney Brewery, whose Schwartz Family Company (SFC) recently followed up on a 2023 investment in GABS with a full takeover. While events in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane are being restructured over the next 12 months, regional events in Canberra and the Hunter Valley are moving ahead unchanged. "The craft beer landscape has never been more challenging, but we are confident that with fresh new ideas and the support and expertise of our extensive craft beer and hospitality network, GABS will remain the benchmark for craft beer promotion in Australia," said Dr Schwartz in a statement. Founded in 2011, GABS has built a stellar reputation for showcasing the best of Australia's boundary-pushing independent brewers. Yet in recent years, some regulars have felt that the festival has lost the atmosphere that once made the event so special, not helped by numerous smaller brewers turning away due to the high cost of attending. "We have plenty of great plans, but we always listen and learn from our partners involved in our festivals. We plan to reassess the venues, timings of festivals, even the number of sessions, and possibly add cider and spirits to the events, so that we can grow the customer base and provide a memorable experience," said Dr Schwartz. As for the ever-popular GABS Hottest 100, the poll is going ahead as usual, with beer-lovers invited to vote for their favourite five breweries until Sunday, January 11, 2026. With Mountain Culture Status Quo completing the three-peak in 2024, becoming just the second brewery to do so, only time will tell if a new champion claims boozy bragging rights. GABS Festival is expected to return to Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane in 2027. Head to the website for more information.
Everyone in Brisbane has been to Straddie at least once — and everyone has been to the Straddie pub, too. There's a reason for that. When it comes to classic southeast Queensland experiences that involve ocean views and a cold drink in hand, it really doesn't get much better. Now, North Stradbroke Island's much-loved watering hole is back, reopening as The Straddie Hotel after a thoughtful redevelopment that brings the venue into a new era without losing its soul. Set on the headland just steps from the ocean, the refreshed hotel still leans into surf culture and that unmistakably laidback island energy, just with a few more modern comforts. New and reworked spaces include a breezy upper deck, an expanded all-weather deck complete with an operable roof, a reimagined bistro and main bar, plus a second bar in the thick of the action — all designed to keep the focus firmly on the sweeping views of Cylinder Beach and the Coral Sea beyond. The kitchen delivers generous pub classics with a coastal twist: alongside island-sourced oysters, fish tacos, prawn and bug cocktails, and fish and chips, the menu includes staples like schnitties, hand-stretched pizzas and grill items like a Black Angus rump. At the bar, you'll find local beers from Straddie Brewing Co., easy-drinking wines and beach-ready signature cocktails like the Straddie Island Iced Tea, Coco Margarita and a rotating slushie of the month. Early risers in the summer months will also be rewarded with breakfast bites and coffee from a grab-and-go kiosk. Beyond the food, the refreshed Straddie Hotel also offers family-friendly spaces, a regular program of live music and a renewed focus on local culture and community — cementing its place as one of southeast Queensland's great island institutions.
4 Pines Brewing at Landers Pocket is poised to revolutionise the entertainment landscape in Brisbane. The new drinking, dining and leisure centre sits as the centrepiece of the landmark precinct that will transform the hospitality experiences available for locals and tourists alike. The enormous venue, spanning more than 16 hectares, which sits adjacent to Golf Central, fuses golf, dining, brewing, distilling and live music into one dynamic destination. As if that weren't enough, the precinct will soon add padel courts, a kick-n-catch play zone, a village green, and an outdoor event and concert amphitheatre. The Landers Pocket hub is located approximately 10 minutes from the Brisbane CBD, and will be the first eye-catching venue travellers will see when leaving the airport. James Cooper, Director at Landers Pocket, says, "Our vision for Landers Pocket is to create a truly unique entertainment destination — a place that celebrates award-winning beer and gin, new wave golf and elevated dining. This is just the beginning." Set to become Brisbane's most extensive entertainment precinct this decade, Landers Pocket, which is already home to Golf Central, now adds an 800-person hospitality venue, gastropub and distillery. Todd Atkinson, General Manager, says, "4 Pines Brewing at Landers Pocket is about bringing people together — beer lovers, travellers, golfers and families alike. It's a place to relax, connect and enjoy world-class experiences without the formality. We can't wait to open the doors." For beer lovers, there will be 32 draught taps pouring the highly awarded core range from 4 Pines Brewing Co. Two rotating taps will feature 'here today, never to be seen again' limited release and bespoke beers brewed on-site in the microbrewery. If you're more inclined to go for a G&T, the venue will also showcase a Never Never Gin Distillery. "We're incredibly excited to bring Never Never to Landers Pocket, to deliver some of Australia's most highly awarded gin experiences, in a completely unique way — whether it's tasting flights, gin pairings, or martini moments, our first off site offering will incorporate local flavours into the exceptional Never Never flavour," says Sean Baxter, Co-Founder and Brand Director. With an extensive beer garden, party driving bays, and a new mini-golf course, the easily accessible, laidback yet energetic precinct will not only draw tourists, but will also serve as the ultimate venue for your next corporate event or private party. 4 Pines Brewing at Landers Pocket is slated to open on Wednesday, November 19. Images: Supplied.
There's big screens, and then there's IMAX's big screens. For Queenslanders, however, only the first have greeted cinemagoers over the last decade — until now. The Gold Coast has just become home to the Sunshine State's sole location playing the huge format, with Event Cinemas Pacific Fair in Broadbeach converting an existing auditorium into an IMAX. The new IMAX was first announced back in October 2024, and has newly opened its doors as at Thursday, December 19, 2024, just in time for the Christmas and Boxing Day rush. In literally massive news, Australia's number of giant spots to catch a film now totals four. The Gold Coast joins Sydney and Melbourne, as well as the also just-opened Dendy Canberra IMAX. The Sunshine State isn't unacquainted with such a sizeable way to see a flick, though. South Bank's Cineplex in Brisbane was previously an IMAX but, while it still has the towering screen in operation, the picture palace hasn't shown the format for more than a decade. So, Brisbanites are set for a trip down the highway — and tourists to the Gold Coast who are keen on catching a flick during their stay have somewhere huge to hit up. At Event Cinemas Pacific Fair in Broadbeach, viewers can expect a custom-built IMAX experience, including a 1.1:9 aspect ratio screen, IMAX 4K laser projection, 12-channel sound and premium seating. Mufasa: The Lion King and Moana 2 are the first films gracing the new setup, with the future slate set to not only show blockbusters, but also concert films, documentaries and live events. "We are so proud to bring IMAX to the Gold Coast. For years, Queenslanders have been eager for a premium IMAX cinema experience, and we're thrilled to bring this to life for them," said Daniel McCabe, General Manager of Cinema Operations Australia Event Cinemas. The Gold Coast now boasts two sizeable ways to get a movie fix, with surround-screen viewing experience ScreenX making its Australian debut at Event Cinemas Robina back in 2023. Three walls, three screens, a 270-degree field of view: that's the maths behind that concept, which uses multi-projection across a screen area measuring 67.7 metres. Also in 2023, after IMAX Sydney reopened at Darling Harbour following a seven-year period where it was demolished and then rebuilt, it was revealed that another IMAX was on its way to Sydney. While it's planned for an existing Event Cinemas location as well, it hasn't come to fruition as yet. Find IMAX at Event Cinemas Pacific Fair, Pacific Fair Shopping Centre, Level 1/1571 Hooker Boulevard, Broadbeach. Head to the cinema's website for more details. Images: IMAX Pacific Fair and IMAX Queensgate NZ.
Renowned chef and restaurateur Matt Moran has announced the launch of his new burger brand, Proper Burgers. Reflecting his cooking philosophy of 'simple food, done properly,' the elevated burgers will make their debut this summer. Matt Moran says, "I have been cooking my whole life, and one thing I have learnt is that simple food, done properly, is hard to beat. That's what Proper Burgers is all about. For me, that means starting with grass-fed beef, seasoned properly and cooked with care. It means soft milk buns, sharp cheese and sauces we make ourselves. It's the kind of burger you remember — simple, satisfying, and bloody delicious. Big flavour. Nothing fancy, just damn good burgers." On the menu, classic burgers, snacks and sides are all designed to reflect Moran's commitment to top-quality produce. The Original Proper Burger features grass-fed beef and a tangy Proper Sauce, whereas the Proper Chook showcases southern crumbed chicken with a cabbage and herb slaw. On the side, you're not limited to ordinary, soggy take-out fries. Instead, go for popcorn prawns, corn ribs with parmesan and chipotle mayo, or crunchy salt and vinegar onion rings. While the first shopfront will open at Optus Stadium, it will form the foundation of a broader national vision. Moran plans to expand the brand to reach audiences who value high-quality food that is not overly complicated for its own sake. Images: SoCo Studios. Proper Burgers will open at Optus Stadium over the summer. If you're looking for a great feed now, check out this iconic Melbourne burger, which was crowned the 14th best burger in the world, or this Sydney number, previously ranked ninth best burger globally.
Sydney has no shortage of beautiful neighbourhoods vying for attention. One gleaming gem in its crown, however, is Potts Point. Just east of the Sydney CBD, and close to the historic Kings Cross, the neighbourhood is a blend of heritage architecture, leafy streets, boutiques, bars, galleries and more. If you're looking to stay in the culturally-rich precinct for the weekend, Hotel Indigo Sydney Potts Point offers front-row access to the best parts of the neighbourhood. [caption id="attachment_1032369" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Hotel Indigo Sydney Potts Point[/caption] With its boutique rooms, quirky interiors, and views overlooking the beautiful Rushcutters Bay, Hotel Indigo Sydney Potts Point situates you right in the heart of the action and luxe Sydney lifestyle. Here's how to plan your next weekend exploring the neighbourhood. [caption id="attachment_1032350" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Destination NSW[/caption] Begin With A Wander And Coffee Potts Point is a beautiful walkable neighbourhood that's dotted with some of the city's heritage 20th-century architecture. Enjoy an early morning stroll around the suburb to orient yourself and soak up the view. After a wander, head to Piña for a coffee and breakfast. Located down Llankelly Place's laneway, Piña is a buzzy local café that offers outdoor seating, so you can people-watch while sipping on your flat white. Room Ten, located across the road, is also a popular café destination for locals. Be sure to enjoy some breakfast and fuel up for browsing. [caption id="attachment_652937" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Potts Point Bookshop[/caption] Browse The Boutiques Potts Point is a mecca of independent stores and designers. Macleay Street in particular offers a range of boutiques for you to peruse. Potts Point Bookshop is a destination for any bibliophile. Macleay on Manning is another eclectic Potts Point staple that's been around for over two decades. Here you'll find design books, ceramics, candles and fashion to inspire. If you're looking to pick up some new threads, Locale features clothes by both local and international brands such as Elka Collective and King Csila. [caption id="attachment_654859" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Fratelli Paradiso[/caption] Long Lunch After window shopping (or dropping some cash), you've probably worked up an appetite. The Apollo is a Greek restaurant that specialises in the art of the long lunch, while across the road, Cho Cho San serves modern Japanese cuisine. If Italian is more your style, enjoy casual European dining at Fratelli Paradiso. Top off your lunch date with a wine from Dear Sainte Éloise. Also located in the laneway of Llankelly Place, the wine bar features over 350 bottles to choose from, all in a sophisticated Potts Point setting. [caption id="attachment_623519" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Dear Sainte Éloise[/caption] Bar Hopping Post-aperitif at Dear Sainte Éloise, you may want to continue enjoying the buzzy atmosphere of Potts Point. The neighbourhood has always known how to do nightlife. From its King's Cross heyday to the modern and glamorous cocktail bars, there's no shortage of venues to select from. If you enjoy your cocktails with a side of New York City sophistication, drop in to The Roosevelt. Jangling Jack's offers live music and a mean martini, while Dulcie's gives you a glimmer of Sydney's past with its underground cocktail parlour. [caption id="attachment_791596" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Ezra[/caption] Dine Like A Local Looking for a dinner spot for your Potts Point stay? There are several venues for you to head to after exploring the neighbourhood. Ezra serves bold Middle Eastern flavours with a Mediterranean twist in a relaxed setting. Its small plates are perfect for sharing with friends or your date. Meanwhile, Bloom is a café by day and an Italian-inspired restaurant by night. If you're craving some mouth-watering pizzas, check out Bloom's sourdough bases. If you're the traveller who likes to make the most of the hotel, Hotel Indigo Sydney Potts Point is home to Luc-San Restaurant. With a menu crafted by renowned chef Luke Mangan, the casual dining bar offers a blend of French and Japanese-inspired cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere. Plus, you can just hop the elevator back upstairs once finished. Easy. [caption id="attachment_1032368" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Hotel Indigo Sydney Potts Point[/caption] The Perfect Base When you're done wandering (and eating) for the day, Hotel Indigo Sydney Potts Point is ready to welcome you back. Home to stylish rooms with views across the city, and filled with nods to the neighbourhood, the boutique hotel offers a plush place to relax and gather your energy before more exploring tomorrow. [caption id="attachment_1034131" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Hotel Indigo Sydney Potts Point[/caption] Want to stay in the thick of it? Find out more about Hotel Indigo Sydney Potts Point here. Lead image: Hotel Indigo Sydney Potts Point
